THE WALL OF FACES

Aircraft SN 68-15654 departed Phan Thiet enroute to FSB Nancy. Upon reaching FSB Nancy, CW2 William R. Kersey assumed the position of pilot from WO1 David R. Noll. The aircraft departed FSB Nancy enroute to grid coordinate YT553354, to establish contact with Ranger Team 54. The Ranger team leader stated that at approximately 1930 hours a helicopter passed over his location, extremely fast and at a very low altitude. He thought that by the speed of the aircraft that it was an AH-1G. Shortly after the ship passed the Rangers’ position they heard a loud popping sound,similar to that which is encountered when a helicopter is in a banked turn with power being applied. The leader stated the sound was much louder than he had ever heard. Less than 30 seconds later there was an explosion. Upon investigation the Ranger team found a helicopter that had crashed and burned. Apart from the two pilot, those who perished in the crash included SP4 Larry Schoonmaker and 1LT Joseph L. Chambers. [Taken from vhpa.org]

It is said a man hasn't died as long as he is remembered. This prayer is a way for families, friends and fellow veterans to remember our fallen brothers and sisters. Do not stand at my grave and weep I am not there, I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain, I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning hush, I am the swift, uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight, I am the stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there, I did not die.