THE WALL OF FACES

Richard, I never met you however you presence was always known. Your family loves you and misses you greatly. Your medals of honor and flag remain on display in the living room. Thank you for your service. Rest in peace.

Private First Class Richard Daniel Cheney, Served with Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us....

Dear PFC Richard Cheney,
Thank you for your service in the Marine Corps - but I do not know your MOS. Yesterday was Veterans' Day. Thank you for your service. This is the month that we remember all those who have passed-on. We remember you. It is so important for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

I went to school (English High) with Dick and Jack. We all wound up at U-Mass (Boston). For (various) reasons, untold, we three wound up at a recruiters office. Dick was born to be a Marine. Jack and I were intent on joining the Navy. While Jack talked to the Navy recruiter, I sat, and as luck would have it, listened to an Air Force recruiter who (I swear) said "I'm not blowin' smoke up yer ass" as he seduced me.. and "guaranteed" I could get into radio broadcasting...I was sure I had the voice for it. I knew these guys...and knew how little we know. I came back. It hurts me to think about them every year, sometimes every night. They were my youth and I lost it.