THE WALL OF FACES

As good a Friend as I had at TBS. As a "brown bagger" (Married Officer), Jim shared our BOQ room/head to store gear and change uniforms. As if TBS PT wasn't hard enough, on free Saturdays Jim would come in and the two of us would run as hard as we could for an hour, and then run the Obstacle Course time after time until exhausted. Some days we never said a word to each other, just enjoyed the other Marine's company- as Marines do. First, and Best, Black Friend I ever had. Losing Jim defines the word tragedy because he was a Great American.

Dear LT James Cockerl,
Thank you for your service as a Basic Infantry Officer. Your 72nd birthday is soon, happy birthday. December is here, along with all the preparations. It is almost Christmas. 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.

Dear 2LT James Calvin Cockerl, 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, Sir

Curt Carter

Always a smile on his face, so willing to help, great sense of humor. I remember him telling me, "E I am probably the only Black Irish Jew you will ever meet.

Just a great human being and Marine

Never above you, never below you, always with you"

Semper Fidelis, Jim

Semper Fi, Sir.