06 June 2005 My Buddy Joe Joe and I first met in boot camp at MCRD in San Diego in Sept. 1966. Because our last names began with the letter "W" we were nearly always placed together during training. Prior to assignment in South Vietnam in early 1967, we went back to Southern Illinois on leave and got to meet each other's families. It gave them comfort to know Joe and I were watching out for each other. In Vietnam, Joe and I were assigned to Golf Company, 2nd Bn, 7th Marines. We were even assigned to the same fire team in 3rd squad, 3rd platoon. The only time we were separated was the day Joe died. Our 11 man patrol was ambushed in "Elephant Valley" in Quang Nam province on 4/21/67. I was severely wounded and did not learn for several days that Joe was among those killed. I will be eternally grateful for the brief time I got to know Joe Wylie and will never forget him. I still miss hearing his laugh. He was a good friend and a valiant young Marine hero. Semper Fi, Joe. Larry M. Williams lwilliams@vintnerschoice.com

 

A Note from The Virtual Wall The six Marines who died in the ambush were LCpl Jimmy M. Mullins, Del City, OK Pfc Donald G. Brown, Alvin, TX Pfc Gregorio M. Deocampo, San Francisco, CA Pfc Richard L. King, Lancaster, OH Pfc Charles M. Smith, Jacksonville, FL Pfc Joseph D. Wylie, Belleville, IL

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