THE WALL OF FACES

Dear SM1 Joseph Clerkin,
Thank you for your service as a Signalman 1st Class. December is here, along with all the preparations. 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.

On 10 April PBR's on routine patrol. of the Van Co Dong River came under rocket and automatic weapons attack five miles southeast of Tra Cu. The cover boat, PBR 96, received two B-40 hits simultaneously. One rocket hit the Coxswain's flat and killed the captain, Joseph Clerking, instantly. The second rocket struck just aft of the coxswain's flat blowing down into the engine compartment, injuring the entire boat crew. The boat ran out of Control and beached on the bank opposite from the enemy ambush. The lead boat, while still under fire, reversed course, returned to the beached boat and removed the wounded personnel but was unable to recover the boat captain's body because of intense enemy fire. The lead boat cleared the kill zone to the south to a medevac position where the wounded were dusted off. Additional PBR's were scrambled from Tra Cu to go to the assistance of the engaged units. Three PBR's pulled the beached boat from and towed it back to Tra Cu with Seawolves providing air cover. Artillery fire and LHFT strikes were placed on the enemy position when the friendly forces were clear. Enemy casualties were unknown, while U.S. causalities were one killed and five wounded.

Never will I forget our Fighting together as a two boat team on many combat patrols. River Division 512. Joe was a brave and wonderful friend. Memorial Day 2016 is a great way to remember him.

The true friendship and courage you shared with me will never leave my memory. I carry our great brotherhood with me daily. I plan on seeing you when the Lord takes me away. Your smile and bravery keeps me going. I love you Joe. Ron Branney PBR Rivdiv 512, 1968-1969...

Dear SM1 Joseph Clerkin, 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