THE WALL OF FACES

A butterfly lights beside us like a sunbeam
And for a brief moment its glory
and beauty belong to our world
But then it flies again
And though we wish it could have stayed...
We feel lucky to have seen it.

May those who served never be forgotten. Rest in peace CPL. Christensen, I salute your brave soul. My heart goes out to you and your family. Semper Fidelis!

Dear CPL Bruce Christensen,
Thank you for your service as a Machine Gunner. Happy Thanksgiving. 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.

CPL Bruce A. Christensen was a machine gunner serving with 3rd Platoon, I Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines. On February 9, 1971, 3rd Platoon was patrolling outside of LZ Ross in the mountains adjacent to Que Son Valley. While forming a defensive position, CPL Christensen was directed by his squad leader to cover one of the fields of fire. After receiving the instructions, CPL Christensen asked permission to “chow down.” Obtaining approval to eat, he stood up. At that same instant their position was attacked by the enemy, and Christensen was hit by a burst of AK-47 fire. Despite the valiant efforts of a corpsman to save him, Christensen succumbed to his wounds. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org, thewall-usa.com, and information provided by Greg Watt]

You were one of the brave that answered the call. You honored us by your service and sacrifice. We now honor you each time we stand and sing the words “THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE”. Rest in Peace and Honor Bruce.