killed by explosion

[Frog]

Here are two of same shot.
First one un-edited except resize and auto sharpen.
Second I played with mostly with levels.
Note: I know the composition sucks as I cut off too much of the bottom lettering but will re-do the photo.
What I'm mostly wanting to know is what you think about the editing. My main purpose was to make the lettering a bit more distinct.
I'm thinking of making this into a dyptech(sp?) with the whole tombstone when I find out how to make one.
Thanks for your opinions!
btw: This is a color shot not converted to b/w

[Shebang]

I may see an ever-so-slight improvement in the legibility. I prefer the color in the edited version. Better suited to the subject IMHO.

[retroactiv]

Frog, I like the subject but this photo is in need of something. Maybe if there was some angle to the way you shot this. I am quite impressed although at the lack of color in the color.

Educate me on what is a dyptech

[Ron Kruger]

I think the extra contrast in the second shot is best, and the darkness of the shot is appropriate.

[draymorton]

I like everything about the second one better except the color cast.

Cool shot.