“Etched in Panel 50W, Line 37, is the name Guido Farinaro - the first Marine who died following my orders in Vietnam.  Each name carved in that black granite represents a life sacrificed in service to something greater than self.  The Education Center at The Wall will share the stories and honor the memories behind these names.  Marines throughout the ages have served bravely, knowing their fellow Marines would not leave them behind.  This is our chance to pay tribute to Guido and thousands of others, and to preserve their legacy for future generations.”

-- General Peter Pace, USMC (Ret) - 16th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

 

"The Coast Guard has a proud tradition of service during both peace and war. The Education Center at The Wall, to be built in Washington, DC, will honor the service and sacrifice of Americans in uniform throughout our Nation's history with special recognition for those who selflessly served and died during the Vietnam War, including our seven fellow Coasties. While our approximately 8,000 veterans of that war is a small number in comparison to the other services in the Challenge, we are no less proud of their service and place in our heritage. Dave Brostrom and Jack Rittichier were friends of mine and I never hear the words Viet Nam without thinking about their sacrifice.  I encourage Coast Guard men and women of all generations and from around the world to join me in supporting this challenge campaign."