THE WALL OF FACES

Its been forty years now since I have seen you or TL,
but I have not forgotten.

Full many a gem of purest ray serene
The dark unfathom'd caves of ocean bear:
Full many a flower is born to blush unseen,
And waste its sweetness on the desert air.

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

Although we never met personally, I want to thank you William Henry Amspacher, Jr., for your courageous and valiant service, faithful contribution, and most holy sacrifice, given to this great country of ours!

Your Spirit is alive--and strong, therefore, you shall never be forgotten, nor has your death been in vain!

Again, thank you Sailor, for a job well done!

FAIR WINDS, AND ETERNAL PEACE MY FRIEND

Bill could do the best imitation of L.A. Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully. And he also had a great shot from the baseline, which he would enhance with a Scully-like commentary ... "and it's in there!"

And none of us that were there will forget our adventure in the storm drain. Enough said on that.

Mick and Bill and I cracked up listening to Red Foxx and Bill Cosby albums and playing cards at Bill's place.

Bill was the kind of person I never heard anyone say anything negative about. A real friend.