Friend it's been so long since we went away.
We didn't want to go but we're so glad you stayed.
And for the past twenty years you've not slept too well.
We know you'll never forget the way we died, and everyday you ask yourself the reasons why.
We can't tell you why but we can say we no longer cry in pain.
We're all together and it hurts us to know you've been alone.
We've felt your pain for all these years—we wanted to help.
Take a look at your son— almost our age when we met.
Can you imagine sending him to Vietnam.
Maybe he and all our sons are part of the reasons why.
We've had time to think this through and whether it was us or it had been you, it had to be.
There had to be a wall.
Some had to fall.
There had to be those that made it home.
For without our names inscribed on this wall,
Without you to wonder why, without you to show all our sons,
To have them touch our names to see our sacrifice, to let them share your pain.
Then there would still be a Viet-Nam.
We're proud of you and all those that made it home, But you and so many more need a friend
So let us take the watch, you get some rest.
Just think of us every now and then.
And when you do think of us, just pretend you closed your eyes the day we died.
Remember us before that day, let that day fade away.
And before you walk away, touch our names, Remember them, then say good-bye.
When you feel the need to talk Come again We're still your friends.