THE WALL OF FACES

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'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.

Corporal Douglas Davis Coffman, Served with the Headquarters and Service Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

Dear Cpl Douglas Coffman,
Thank you for your service as Radio Telegraph Operator. 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.

I met Douglas when he was a short timer. He had been brought in from the field to work in Comm center inside the battalion area. We talked about home. He told me how great the weather and the skiing in Bend, Oregon. He got a far away look in his eyes when he talked about home. He was a quiet person. He said he was thinking of extending in 'Nam so his brother, also a Marine, would not be sent to Vietnam. "I've got it made here, now." Then one day they needed someone to carry a PRC-10 on a short patrol just outside the wire. So they gave Douglas the job. And that was the end. He was killed by a sniper. Years ago I wrote to the newspaper in Bend but never received an answer. I always wanted to find his family and tell them what a fine, decent human and good Marine he was and how much I thought of him. I was unable to, so maybe someone who knew him will see this.