THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us…..

On the afternoon of February 19, 1970, units of the 3rd Battalion, 31st Regiment, 21st Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) Division, were preparing to board River Assault Interdiction Division (RAID) 74 watercraft four miles southwest of Phu Loc Airfield in Chuong Thien Province, RVN, when a command detonated mine exploded six feet from the boat ramp. The blast killed thirteen ARVN and one U.S. Army advisor, SFC William R. Coggins from Advisory Team 51, MACV Advisors; another twenty-five ARVN were wounded. A dustoff medical evacuation helicopter was immediately requested. A U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook helicopter, call sign “Innkeeper 16,” operating in support of Amphibious Task Force 211 (ATF-211), monitored the dustoff request and proceeded to the scene. The pilot determined that he could land but was advised that the area was not secure nor was a perimeter established. The aircraft flew to Vi Thanh, about 20 miles southwest of Can Tho, and obtained a AH-1G Cobra attack helicopter fire team, and returned. Before the Chinook had landed, the Cobras were diverted to another action. In spite of no air coverage, Innkeeper 161 safely landed, remained on the ground for approximately 45 minutes while the wounded were transferred, and then delivered them to Vi Thanh where ambulances and medical personnel were available. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “USN February 1970 History Part 3” at ttu.edu]

Dear SFC William Coggins,
Thank you for your service as an Infantryman/Instructor. December is here, along with all the preparations. It is Christmas Eve. 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 SFC William Ray Coggins, 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

You are not forgotten