THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. It is especially tragic that you died so close to the end of your tour.

Now that we have passed the 52nd anniversary of your heroic and tragic death, we, your classmates and friends of the St. Pancras School Class of 1961, wish to say publicly that we admire you, appreciate your sacrifice, and cherish the short time that we got to spend with you. We will meet again when we join you in the next life.

HE ONLY HAD 15 DAYS LEFT IN COUNTRY WHEN THIS HAPPENED REST IN PEACE, MY FRIEND HE SAVED THE PLATOON THAT DAY AND GOT THE BRONZ STAR FOR IT. HE WAS WOUNDED AND DIED LATER THAT NIGHT AT THE HOSPITAL.

Born in 1960, I grew up seeing young men such as yourself fight and die for us, only to see those who did return treated shamefully, where gratitude was warranted instead.
I vowed to honor ALL of you in some small way myself. Years later, I joined the Army, in large part to do just that.
I visited the Wall years ago and was treated by the Vietnam veteran volunteers as a welcomed part of the family of soldiers, though I had done so little. That touched me deeply.
Now, I listen every day to your nephew, Dan Bongino, who was inspired by stories of you and your service. Sadly, you did not have the opportunity to have a family of your own, but you have left a living legacy in his patriotism and love for this country.
Warmest regards and deepest sympathies to your family.

Thanks for helping protect our rights! Your nephew Don is a warrior of today and carries your family name well. May you Rest In Peace and your family know you are appreciated.