THE WALL OF FACES

I was 12 in 1972 and I believe it was that year that I received my bracelet with the name of Maj. Richard Castillo...3-29-72...engraved on it. My father was a career US diplomat and I spent 14 years travelling the globe from one overseas diplomatic assignment to another and in 1972 we were posted to Panama City, Panama. My mom heard about the POW/MIA bracelets at church and got me and my sister a bracelet. Many prayers were said by me all those years ago...and years after. I am now 62 and recently moved into a new home and uncovered Lt. Col. Castillo's bracelet and went searching to find what was known about him. I read the tragic report about the evening of March 29, 1972. He was an American hero and I am thankful and grateful for the men and women like Lt. Col. Castillo who have fought for freedom. Thank you, sir.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. I am heartened you were returned home though I wish it had been under different circumstances. May you rest in eternal peace.

Lieutenant Colonel Richard Castillo, Served with the 16th Special Operations Squadron, 8th Tactical Fighter Wing, 7th Air Force.

We can never truly repay the debt we owe our fallen heroes.
Rest In Peace LTC. Castillo.

Ricard Castillo-Rich- and I were room mates, track mates and good friends at Furman University in 1959. He had a great sense of humor and was full of (to me) unique stories. He was also a very good pole vaulter. There is no Viet Nam war memorial at Furman but there is a brick in the walk way to the Furman Bell Tower dedicated to Rich. Always remembered.