THE WALL OF FACES

than that man lay down his life for a friend."

Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

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 sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.

As long as you are remembered you will always be with us....

Curtis Lee Andersen
Date of birth: March 6, 1944
Date of death: September 13, 1968
Place of Birth: South Dakota, Volga
Home of record: Lake Preston South Dakota
Status: KIA

AWARDS AND CITATIONS

Silver Star

Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Warrant Officer Curtis Lee Andersen (ASN: W-3160033), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving with Troop A, 7th Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 13 September 1968. Warrant Officer Andersen distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving a the pilot of an CH-64 helicopter on a combat operation in the Republic of Vietnam. His team was assigned to screen around an advancing American unit and to assist in leading the unit through the dense jungle undergrowth. Having moved the troops several hundred meters along a ridge line, his team leader spotted an ambush position set up by the enemy. Realizing that their position had been exposed, the insurgents immediately started firing on the helicopters. Having been informed that his lead ship had been shot in the tail rotor, he rolled in and placed highly suppressive fire on the area. His quick reaction enabled the lead ship to escape without further damage, and enabled the ground unit to set up a defensive position. On Warrant Officer Andersen's second pass, an enemy anti-aircraft position opened fire on him, causing his ship to crash to the ground and explode. Because of his willingness to lay down his own life, he saved the ground unit from walking into an ambush. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

General Orders: Headquarters, 1st Aviation Brigade, General Orders (October 14, 1968)

Action Date: September 13, 1968

Service: Army

Rank: Warrant Officer

Company: Troop A

Battalion: 7th Squadron

Regiment: 17th Cavalry, 1st Aviation Brigade

Yesterday, while visiting your grave, the feeling of real loss from not having you here to spend time with & to talk with was very overwhelming. I was only 7 years old when you died, but I still can & will always remember your gentle & kind demeanor & your infectious smile!

Thank you, Curty, for the sacrifice you made for your family & this country.

We all love & miss you so much!

Thank you Warrant Officer Andersen for your skill and exemplary courage under fire.