THE WALL OF FACES

"The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again, who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; who at best, knows the triumph of high achievement; and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat."
-Theodore Roosevelt, "Citizen in a Republic", April 23, 1910

Private First Class Walter John Alyea, Served with the Reconnaissance Platoon, Company E, 3rd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

DEAR PFC ALYEA,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AS AN ARMY GRUNT.
REST IN PEACE.

Walter (Wally, as many of us called him) was a dear friend of mine and one of the most generous and kindest people anyone could ever know. We talked about many things over the course of our younger years, but mostly we talked about our families and children. (I can only imagine how thrilled he would be to talk about all the grandchildren he has today, and I know he would have been the best grandpa in the world!) It was such a sad time back in the 60's though, with so many young men dying in the Vietnam war. My brother was drafted as well, and although my brother made it back to America alive, he never really came home again and continues to this day to be estranged from his entire family. So in essence, I lost two dear souls to that ugly war. I can still remember how shocked I was (and all his friends were) to learn of Wally's passing, it took a few years to even accept it. I know there is suppose to be a reason for everything, but I think that God took a wonderful human being away from his family and friends by accident that day, because I still can't see the reasoning behind this loss. I only know that he made the ultimate sacrifice so that many of us can enjoy our freedom today and I have never forgotten that, and I'll never forget Wally. Rest in peace my friend until we one day meet again in the beautiful sunshine of the heavens.

Dear PFC Walter John Alyea, sir

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for your sacrifice made on behalf of our wonderful country. The youth of today could gain much by learning of heroes such as yourself, men and women whose courage and heart can never be questioned.

May God allow you to read this, and may He allow me to someday shake your hand when I get to Heaven to personally thank you. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love you.

With respect, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter