THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. Your Silver Star citation attests to your courage and devotion to your fellow marines. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever....

We can never truly repay the great debt we owe our fallen heroes. May those who served never be forgotten. Rest in peace CPL. Collins, I salute your brave soul. My heart goes out to you and your family. Semper Fidelis!

Marine Corps Recruit Depot
San Diego, CA
Second Battalion
Platoon 201

Commenced Training:
19 January 1965
Graduated:
31 March 1965

SSGT H.P. Klunk - Platoon Commander
SGT G.W. Prater - Drill Instructor
CPL A.E. Patty - Drill Instructor

Three other members of Platoon 201 were KIA in Viet Nam.
PVT David C. De Witt - Clinton, IA
CPL Teddy L. Hisaw Jr. - Catoosa, OK
LCPL John E. Paddock - Port Townsend, WA

Semper Fidelis, Marine!

David L. Collins
Date of birth: 8-Dec-47
Date of death: February 1, 1968
Home of record: Carson City California
Status: KIA

AWARDS AND CITATIONS

Silver Star

Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal David L. Collins (MCSN: 2127450), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a rifleman with Company F, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in the Republic of Vietnam on 1 February 1968. During Operation HUE CITY, Corporal Collins' platoon was taken under devastating small-arms, automatic weapons and rocket fire by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force. In the initial moments of the attack, the lead squad sustained several casualties and was pinned down. Although carrying his radio, he moved forward through the intense enemy fire to direct accurate fire against the enemy. As the unit was reinforced with tanks, and because of the lack of communications between the tanks and infantry, Corporal Collins dashed through the fire-swept streets and climbed on top of one of the vehicles to direct their fire. Although he was exposed to enemy fire, he steadfastly maintained radio contact with the tanks and fired his weapon. Undaunted by the heavy volume of fire directed at him, he courageously maintained his precarious position and continued to direct the tanks until he was mortally wounded. By his bold initiative, gallant fighting spirit and loyal devotion to duty, Corporal Collins reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Action Date: 1-Feb-68

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Corporal

Company: Company F

Battalion: 2d Battalion

Regiment: 5th Marines

Division: 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Dear Cpl David Collins,
Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. Today is the last day of 2017, Happy New Year, and it is the 7th Day of 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.