wrote on June 1, 2010
at
9:00 pm
Name: godfrey "sonny" w hendrickson
Hometown: ,
Date: June 01, 2010 - 11:02 AM (pacific)
I am still conflicted around Memorial Day, served june of '66 to june of '67 viet nam. I cannot enjoy the "thanks of my nation and fellow citizens"; I go to where were you when I came back/needed you. Some things never change. Adios Sonny
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Name: Santos Garcia Castillo
Hometown: Ryan, Ok.
Date: May 31, 2010 - 09:54 PM (pacific)
My friends know me by "Spooky". 1/327 Co. B. 1st Plt. 69-70 " Above The Rest " "You Never forgetten" K.I.A. M.I.A. God Bless Our Troops
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Name: Santos Garcia Castillo
Hometown: Ryan, Ok.
Date: May 31, 2010 - 09:34 PM (pacific)
Vietnam-69-70-1/327th. Infantry Co. B 2nd squad. Looking for comrades.
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Name: GERALD CLARK HORNBECK
Hometown: Maricopa ,County, AZ.
Date: May 31, 2010 - 06:34 PM (pacific)
Could somebody post info about Aco stand down. Thank You.
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Name: James Phil Neel
Hometown: Dobson, North Carolina
Date: May 31, 2010 - 05:04 PM (pacific)
I was in the Tiger Force in Feb-April of 1966...looking for anyone that was there, particularly Francis J. Donovan, Jr.
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Name: Roy Dean Whitfield
Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
Date: May 31, 2010 - 03:19 PM (pacific)
Looking for comrades Co.B/1st.-327th (1969)
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Name: Jerry Husson
Hometown: Martinsburg , West Virginia
Date: May 31, 2010 - 01:04 PM (pacific)
Today we mark the official day of remembrance of those who have gone before us. However, if you live in this Great Nation of ours, we should be remembering them each and every day as they paid the ultimate sacrifice so we might enjoy the freedoms we so often take for granted. They should not and will not be forgotten as long as those of us who were spared devote ourselves to perpetuating their memory. Pray for them often and may God rest their souls. Also as they would wish pray for our veterans and for those who currently serve for it is men and women like these that have paved the way for our freedom filled lives.
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Name: Larry Boecklen
Hometown: ,
Date: May 31, 2010 - 06:53 AM (pacific)
God bless the men I served with. Those fortunate to return and those who gave all.See you in Omaha. Grey Ghost B/2/327 Jan. 67 - Jan. 68
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Name: Erick W. Miller
Hometown: Dover, Tennessee
Date: May 29, 2010 - 04:54 AM (pacific)
A safe and happy Memorial Day weekend to all my brothers. Erick
1st Plt B-Co 1st 327th Inf 101st ABN RVN Nov-'69-Nov '70
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Name: Mike Mercier
Hometown: , North Carolina
Date: May 28, 2010 - 08:25 PM (pacific)
As a WWII collector, I just stumbled across a short snorter signed by members of the 327th prior to Normandy so I was doing a little research on the site.
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Name: Robert Krawczak, Ph.D.
Hometown: Oregon City, Oregon
Date: May 28, 2010 - 03:44 PM (pacific)
I was a medic with the 35th USAF Dispensary at Phan Rang, AFB, Viet Nam, Tet 1968. Also Medic on C123's and C130's on various missions. The Army units provided excellent base protection along with the ROC's and Aussies. Thank You. Memorial Day remembered 2010.
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Name: John F. Lescher
Hometown: Grafton, Ohio
Date: May 28, 2010 - 03:05 PM (pacific)
ABU 1971..Looking for: Terry "Doc" Walker, Juan Garza (Odem Texas) Rick"Trixie"Webster "Gunner" Lt. Gary O'Kelly Bob Davis "Boston" Dennis "Pee Wee" Guymon Jim "Curly" Knox Tom "Nuckles" Kounkel George "Skeeter" Jansen Ed "New York" Pietrowski Tom "Oldpappy" Oldfather Tony "Buffalo Bill" Metzger I have photos of all of you..in the bush & on Firebases..Bastogne, Birmingham, Normandy & others
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Name: DANIEL DEMUTH
Hometown: ,
Date: May 28, 2010 - 11:20 AM (pacific)
Still currently serving deployed with 1-327 IN in Afghanistan
SSG Daniel DeMuth
Infantry 1-327 IN
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Name: Billie R Smith
Hometown: Glendale, AZ.
Date: May 28, 2010 - 10:57 AM (pacific)
Dear Sister Elaine ,
Reuben will be remembered and thought of this Memorial Day as Always.
I will say a Prayer for him .
I "For Sure" know Reuben is with Our Lord.
SIS Elaine Thanks So Very much once again for your phone call and praying with and for me the day before my heart surgery 7-21-2008.
Will never forget that and how so very deeply you touched me !
Love Ya
Wild Bill
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Name: james david baker
Hometown: pomeroy, wa
Date: May 28, 2010 - 01:06 AM (pacific)
ABU 1/327 4th platoon july 67-july 68
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Name: Billie R Smith
Hometown: Glendale, Arizona
Date: May 27, 2010 - 12:03 PM (pacific)
I just wanted to remember and pay Honor to the 4,0000 Fallen 101st Airborne Hero Brothers we lost in Vietnam.
I Especially have on my mind and in my Prayers:
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SSG Thomas Welker
William W. Davis JR.
Jon Honrath
Joe Artavia
Jon L. Grimmett
John R. Favor,
George J. Holly lll
Willaim W. McClendon Jr.
Ernest Patrick Palcic
Anthony Eric Reed
Wayne Kidwell
* AS Well as All Those that Names I can Not Bring Up From the Cobwebs of my Mine !!!!!!!
All of Them are Not Forgotten !
I will also pay Honor and Remember those that have Passed on before us after returning to "THE WORLD" That I know of:
SSG Nathan Mudd ABU. 1st/327th 2009. Iraq
Top McDonald 2010
Jim Grainger "Jungle JIM' 2010
SSG Doyle
SSG Goshen
I will remember my Fallen Brothers from Recondo Days at Ft Campbell.
Sgt David Tanner
Whelan
and THe others that I can't Bring their names up from the recesses of my mind !
God Bless them All and May they Rest in Peace with Our Lord !!!
To My Brothers who made it Home.
"Welcome Home" and God Bless You and your Life !
Bill/ Ric Smith
"WILD BILL"
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Name: Gary RATLIFF
Hometown: ,
Date: May 27, 2010 - 11:33 AM (pacific)
I would like to wish every one a happy and safe memorial day weekend as we honor our fallen brothers,friends and relatives.It hits close to home with the passing of top,our prayers are with all.
Gary and Laura
Above The Rest
Welcome Home
Cobra Co.
65-66
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Name: Earl "Doc" Mower
Hometown: Perkiomenville, PA
Date: May 26, 2010 - 01:47 PM (pacific)
on monday,may31st memorial day 2010 Bruce Masters A/2/327 1966 Joe Carrol C/2/327 1966 Earl "Doc" Mower A/2/327 65-66 will travel to Arlinton National Cemetery to say goodbuy to Col.(R) Joseph Wasco call sign Wild Gypsy 2/327 commander 1966, interment will be on tuesday June 1st after a service in the Ft. Myer's chapel at 8am. at his 87th birthday party in Jan. many members of his officer core as well enlisted men were in attendance and a good time was had by all and the Col.was in good cheer that day. I will miss my visits to him. God Bless all service members and thier familys on this Memorial day.......Earl "Doc" Mower
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Name: Billie R Smith
Hometown: Glendale, AZ.
Date: May 26, 2010 - 01:14 AM (pacific)
Served with ABU 4th Platoon, "Weapons Platoon" July 7th 1967- April of 1968.
Hey thought I'd check in and let all those ABU's, 1/327th that are going to be attending the Second Annual ABU Stand Down in Las Vegas June 14-17 that it now looks like I will be able to attend after all !
My Great Nephew PFC Lance DeHerrera who just graduated from Basic and AIT at Fort Benning has been delayed from attending Airborne Jump School there for Now.
I had Promised Lance and His Dad I would be at his Graduation from Jump School to Pin MY WINGS ON HIM !
However Lance has been sent to Fort Drum New York and has been assigned to 1-32 10th Mountain Group, "The Chosen".
Actually his Dad tells me Lance is with 2 Brigade, "The Spartans" !
A Real Kick Ass Unit who Took it to the Taliban on their last Deployment to Afghanistan last year !
Looking forward to seeing many of the ABU's of 67-68 as well as meeting new Abu Brothers from 69-70-71 years.
Especialy excited about seeing SSG Jim Baker, Richard "Chino" Sanchez, from my days in 4th Platoon 1967-1968.Alex Yaron, "Doc Ollie" 4th Pltn 68, Carl Hillis " Doc Hillis" 67-68 Navajo Indian who was also with Tigers.
Man I'll never Forget the Look on Doc Hillis Face when I walked up to him after a resupply in the Jungle and started speaking to Him in Navajo . He was in Shock, but sooo Happy to meet someone from his Part of The World " !
Roy Agosta Machine Gunner 1st and 2nd Platoons 67-68.
Gregg Granado 2nd Pltn Bloop Gun 67-68.
Lt.Steve Patterson "Tormentor 6" 1st , 2nd Pltns 67-68.
Don Ackerman "Doc Magoo" 68-70.
David Haynes RTO 69-70.
Mil Thornton 70-71***** took over Pric-25 from David Haynes and then humped it all of 70-71. They met at my house in July 2006 once again while attending an ASA Event here in Phoenix, Amazing !
Looking Forwrad to meeting Jerry Lange , Finally also !
Sounds like ABU will be WEll Represented by those from almost all the Years in Nam !
Man it's been a Lot of Years since I've seen so many of you !
Can't wait to get to Vegas !
Sadly Jungle Jim Grainger will not be there with us, as well as many of our Brothers who have Saddled Up and Moved on Out to the Big AO , we all must go to one day !
Let's Not Forget To talk about the Great Deeds and Heroic Efforts of our Brothers who did not come home with us. I know they would Love to be there with us. It's up to us to Honor them and Include them with us.
I know that may be hard for some to do.
If Not For Them and Their Scrarafice , How many of us would be Attending !!!
I know several I owe my Life To !
It's The Honorable and Brotherly thing we can all do for them.
They are Not Forgotten, Ever !
ABU / ATR
Bill Smith
aka Rick Smith
"Wild Bill"
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Name: Billie Richard Smith
Hometown: Glendale, AZ
Date: May 25, 2010 - 06:18 PM (pacific)
Bill Smith
Thinking of All Our Fallen Brothers as another Memorial Day Approachs. May they be in the loving Arms of the Lord and at Peace.
I'm also thinking of all of you Brothers that Communicate here this Memorial day.
Pray God and Life have been good to all of you and Yours.
It's been a while since I've signed on here.
Last time was with the passing and loss of my good Friend and Buddy and our Brother James Grainger, "Jungle JIM" .
To recap my Given Name is Billie Richard Smith Jr.
My Family Always called me Rick Smith, Why ???
That's what I've gone by for all these 63 years.
Obvivously someone at the hospital couldn't spell the male version of Billy, Aye !
Those of you that knew me and I served with in Vietnam while with "ABU" 1/327 probably will remember me as Bill or Billy, Orrrrr "Wild Bill".
I Always wore a Tiger Booney Hat !
The DOD had me listed as William Smith, Bill Smith, William Bill Smith on many different sets of orders. They seemed to manage to get my RA number correct , Always!
I came in country in late June of 1967 at Camron Bay.I had orders for "THE HERD" 173rd, but was sent to Phan Rang for P-School with 20 other Brothers from Recon Pltn HHQ CO 1/502nd from Ft. Campbell Kentucky.
Never saw those 20 Recondo Brothers again until just recently this past year !
Left P-School on July 7th with Bill Bennet and others on this site.
We were assigned to "ABU" 1/327th
Hooked up with the Company in Phu Loc.
Stayed there in the rear base camp about a week.
The CO at the Time was Capt. Mitchell ("TWO CLICK" Mitchell) we called him !
I recall as I walked up to Top Dayoc's tent to Report in seeing all those guy's drinking beer, chowing down on BBQ chicken and steak and playing Volley Ball with the net set up in front of the Supply Tent,.
Hell this ain't gonna be so Bad !!!!
I was assigned to 4th Platoon Weapons Platoon. I remember a LT. was Martinez or Lopez was the 4th Platoon LT.??
This LT. kept getting Heat Stroke on our First Operation out from Phu Loc and was eventually Evaced and never seen again.
Fourth Platoon was assigned to a Rocky Hill just outside the Base camp as a Reactionary Force and to survillance the surrounding area.
Those that were up there with us will remember Humping those 5 Gallon Jerry Cans of water up that steep hill, so that LT could have his daily Shower out of that Shower Bag he had come up with.
Funny how all the Incoming Fire one night around 3 AM was concentrated on that Shower Bag !
Remember that one ???
That First day I would first meet SP4 Richard Kirk who took me under his wing as an FNG. Kirk helped me set up my Ruck, Weapon, Mags and all . I learned a Lot from Kirk in the 8 months I was with him in 4th platoon.
Have never been able to find or locate him since Nam. I believe he was from Nutley New Jersey ( not sure about the spelling). He shared with me that he had worked as a Bank Teller or Clerk before joining the Army ????
, Any of you Brothers remember him, or heard from him all these years. He was promoted to E-5 and was my Squad Leader up until he DEROS from Phue Bia. I remember being in the rear recouping after being evaced on March 23 , 1968 and going to the Phue Bia Airport to see him off.
Last time I heard from or saw him.
Ricard Kirk was a Fine man, a great and Savvy Soldier, Great Squad Leader and took great care of us. Got us ready to take care of ourselves when he had to leave us for The World !
Thanks SGT KIRK !
From Phu Loc We went to the jungle or Song Ve Valley rounding up Civilians relocating them, flying out all the livestock and rice and burning everything to the ground.
Operation Wheeler I think ???
I remember that SSG Thomas Welker was our Platoon Sgt. I went out as a rifleman, but was educated quickly as an RTO by the current RTO who decieded to hand the Pric-25 off to me.Guess he'd Humped it all he had wanted too ????
SSG Welker was KIA on July 27 from stepping on a bouncing betty. I was wounded but not seriously enough to be medi vaced.
WE were humping with a Specail Forces E-6 or E-7 and his band of CIDGs that had hooked up with us. One of the CIDGs had wondered off the trail after our lunch break and stepped on the first BB.
SSG Welker went back down the line to see what had happened
with me hot on his ass with the radio. When he too left the trail he stepped on the second BB.
Lt. Mike Norris "Rango" joined the company that smae afternnon or the next day ???
According to him it was the afternoon of the 27th .
Those who had Requested of me the details of SSG Welker's Death and that incident. I forwraded a detailed letter to, as I was his RTO and right behind him when the mine went off.
One such request came from Dan Clint who was with ABU briefly and then went on to Tigers !
I remember Operations in Song Ve Valley and others like in Chu Lai, Phan Rang, Etc, Etc,
Most vivid and burned into my mind of course was the "BIG AMBUSH" January 24th 1968 in Song Be after we had left Phan Theit Standown and having been able to spend sometime on the beach and in that soooo Salty South China Sea !
I remember after the gooks intialy opened up with what seemed like thousands of RPD Machine Guns and basically took out the point platoon, 1st platoon I believe.
There was mass confusion, and our radios had been jammed.
Lt. Tom Carpenter took charge of his own Platoon and the 4th Pltn. he assembeled us in a line parrrelel with the stream we had to cross to get to the NVA Bunkers up stream. I remember him giving the command and we all jumped off and across that stream.
Then making a right turn on line and charging those bunkers.
I don't kow about the rest of you , but I was sure that as soon as we crossed into that stream All Those RPDs were going to come back on line and Mow us all down.
I know my Ass was so Tight you Couldn't have Driven a Staright Pin up it with a 200 LB JacK Hammer ! ( LT. Norris "Rango"had Deros and had Extended to take over the Mortar Pltn on TOC )
He was not there at Song Be .
I rememner that this Redheaded Kid with giant freckles and I had somehow gotten out in front of everyone in our excitment of the moment.
Next thing I remmeber an E-6 grabbed me by the arm and told me to wait for the rest of them to catch up. Well I had to go back out to drag down the redheaded kid and bring him back to the line or he would've been out there by himself.
Until this day I can Not remember their names, but their faces are sooooo Clear to me !
We Lost a Lot of Really Good , Great Brothers there. We almost Lost the Entire Company after the NVA pinned us down for two days !
Lt Tom Carhart was hit in the leg . Med Vac and never returned to ABU.
Jerry Hankins was his RTO that Day !
LT. Tom Carpenter went on to become Tiger 6 for Awhile after he recovered from his wounds !
I recall being flown into the Air Base at Phan Rang for 1967 X-Mas stand down. I remember we discovered the Air Force had a Hamburger Joint. Stand set up on the Flight Line , and we bought, Stole every burger, fry, and coke they had.
I believe in the end at the threat of "LOCK and LOAD' to the Airmen running that Joint !
After Song Be January 24, 25, and 26 we were hilo back out to Phan Theit I believe. and on to Da Nang. From Da Nang we were trucked up Highway 1 to Phue Bia.
I remember going over that Big Pass outside of Da Nang.
Lt. Steve Patterson had been brought in to Repalce Lt,. Carpenter. Jim Grainger and Lt, Patterson had the Company Guide On standing up in their truck when they hit a Tree Limb and Broke off the Guide On.
Top Dayoc was Pissed.
When we arrived in Phue Bia there was nothing there except for an SS Camp by the Highway.
Not sure how long we stayed there, but remember getting back on some Deuce and Halfs that the bottoms of the beds were covered with c-rats.
We headed back south down highway 1 for about 20 to 40 miles and then turned Inland on a muddy road towards the mountains. I remember this large hill that sat all alone in the low land with the mountains high above it on three sides.
It was a Marine position , Base camp, Arty Position ????
I remember first thing we saw was that they had one big tent right on top and center of the hill. It was Riddled with holes from Shrapnel and you could almost see right through it.
We were assigned to share fighting positions and bunkers with the Jarheads for a least that first night.
Sure as hell me got the crap mortared out of us that night. The Jar heads told us it was a nightly thing.
Duuuuuh no wonder the NVA were up there on the High Ground !
The jar heads had tried to go up the ridge and kick them off 2 to 3 times, but had failed miserably.
That became ABU's Job, Oh Yeah !
I remember those Jar Heads telling us how envious they were of our weapons, equipment, and gear. Many expressed that they wished they were going with us. I felt Sorry for them.
Being stuck there !
It took Abu a couple attempts , but once the NVA realized who they were up against they Boogied ASS !
We worked the Thue Thein Province area for some time after that. I remember Hills. Mountains, Brushy Terrain, Jungle on the Higher areas.
I had been promoted to Sgt E-5 sometime after the Song Be Ambush. I think around the 1st week in Feb. 1968. I was given Fire Team or a Squad ??
I was scared to Death with being given that resposability, but had to adapt quickly !
Sometime in March Alex Yaron Doc Ollie Joined the Company and 4th Platoon.
I remember one morning 4th platoon was given point. My team or squad drew the point that morning.
We had set up a perimeter on the side of a mountain the night before. I had a Trooper that loved to walk point. I remember him being skinny and blonde headed. Can't remember his name to save my Sole.
At any Rate we had been told we had drawn point and I did a weapons check on all my guys. Well the Point mans weapon looked like s Rust Bucket. I couldn't believe it an chewed his Ass out for it and told him it better be spotless, shining and well oiled when I got back from the CP Meeting.
Capt Johnson was the Co. He was being pushed by "GHOST RIDER" to get to humpin that morning.
Intelligence knew there was plenty of NVA in that area and Ghost Rider was wanting some "Body CounT"
Well as fate would have it we were being really rushed to Saddle Up and Get Humpin.
I never had the time to physically check my point mans weapon. Asked if he had cleaned it and was ready for point.
Roger That Sarge.
So we moved out working our way around this mountain.
We didn't get very far when we came upon a RED BALL going straight to the top.
Called back and was told to get on it and see where it took us.
We
hadn't gone 40 feet or so I bet when point walked into the NVA's Point man.
DODGE CITY SHOOT OUT !
My man got one round off and his 16 Jammed up.the NVA Point put one right through his heart. He was dead when he hit the ground.
I was third or fourth in the Column. After ths slack man who I think was Chino Sanchez had emptied a mag up trail we with drew a little and got the Squad on Line.
Chino had the idea and suggested that he and I crawl out to check on our brother and set up a couple of hasty Claymores on either side of the trail. Which we did.
Oh Yeah Tight Ass Hole Again , Damn !
Chino and I moved back to the Squad.
By then most of 4th Platoon had come up on Line with us on either side of the trail.
I was a little back and on the horn to the LT. or Capt Johnson .
When Sure as Hell here came Charlie. Claymores got set off everyone opened up.
I remember running back up to the line and coming down right next to Sgt Ricard Kirk.
I let loose with a burst and almost Blasted Kirks Ear Drum out !
Kirk if you're out there I'm Still sooooooooo Sorry About that. Hope you didn't have problems with that after you got out of the Army Brother !
We Ran the NVA OFF.I say this because we had no Body Count and No Blood Trails.
We couldn't believe it !
Recovered our Brothers Body . Cut a LZ and sent him Home !
Until this Day I blame myself for his Death. If I had just quickly made him break his 16 open before we moved out. I could've given him mine, assigned someone else point , or taken point myself that morning,
Damn It, DamnIt, Dammmmmn It !
The next few weeks are really Foggy in my Memory.
Next thing I remember we were still up in them hills in Thue Thein.
We got the word that on March 4th the City of San Mateo, Calif had Adopted ABU.
Doc Ollie got hit around March 5th or so .
Then on March 23 we were coming out of some heavy brush into a small clearing when a Gook Sniper opened up on us.
I remember we were hauling Ass for cover and to get out of that open area.
I was Flat Out for the other side and cover.
When I broke through into the cover Full Out there was a really steep bank right there. I couldn't stop myself and went flying down that bank manageing to stay on my feet somehow, but there was a small stream at the bottom and as I lept over itto the other bank which was just as steep and rocky.
I came down on my left foot only at a bad angle and snapped my ankle with full Ruck and all on me.
Well some of the brothers took my ruck, and all and helped me up out of that gully .
That sniper had the company pretty well zeroed in.
I remember Top Dayoc had thrown his Sweat Towel over a tree limb and that gook was putting rounds through his towel .
Dayoc was cussing up a Storm and screaming for someone to get out there and get that F@#*%#@1 gook.
I believe Jim Grainger and some others from 1st pltn went out and Zapped Him !
There were others who had been hit and in much worse shape than I. They were sent out first and I went out last back to Camp Eagle Aid Station then we all were put in ambulances and sent to some big Mash Unit near Phue Bia just off highway 1.
I spent a few days, Broke my ankle really bad, maybe a week there and was sent back to ABU 's area at Camp Eagle with a Cast on up to my left knee????
Then ABU came in from the hills for a Stand Down.
We all got Drunk, Ate Steak and Chicken for 5 Days, and then you all went back out.
I was back there in the rear with one or two other guys recouping when we got our new Top.
He was a Really Old Guy and a Big Boozer.
Got up every Morning with a Banging head and a hard on for where he was !!!????
After awile he started bugging me and trying to find any Shit Deatil he Could for me to do.
He Finally Got Tired of me falling outta my Cot shit faced in the morning and had me go down and get on a chopper headed out to TOC.
He siad he wanted me out of his sight. I could a least pull bunker duty out there.
Talk about being one Lucky guy in Nam. When that Chopper sat down on the TOC LZ the Arty Major or Col. was right there. He came over to me and asked me waht the F@*#@#* I was doining on his F%#@#*g Hill.
I told him my Top had sent me out. The Whole story.
He told me to get my Ass back on that Bird and to tell Top if he Tried to send me back out there that he would personally see to it he was Court martialed.
Worked for me, but didn't want to face that Boozer when I got Back !
Well Top was Pissed when I came limping back into ABU area. Told him what the Col had said.
He Pretty much let me do what the hell I wanted to from then on.
Hell he even gave me a couple of other troopers a Deuce and Half and sent me down highway 1 for Da Nang on a Beer Run.
I'm Talkin Pallets of Beer to get back up to Phue Bia so it would be there when the ABU came in for their next Stand down.
Was supposed to be a 2 day run. Took us a week. Hooked up with a Marine E-7 CID and we partyed our asses off for three days in Da Nang and Monkey Mountain.
Well I got all the shit burning I wanted to last a Life time after that.
Why he didn't Bust Me was beyond me !
Anyway had gone down the hill to the mess tent for lunch one day after all that ,and as I was limping back up to the ABU area I had to pass by S-1 or S-2 tents. There was some Lt. asking all the guys if they wanted to extend their tours. I laughed at him saying I only had 90 Days, and they were probably looking for suicide Door Gunners.
Got about half way up the hill and thought ,oh crap let me go see what they are wanting.
I asked the Lt. what they were looking for, Door Gunners??
He said no Sarge we need Instructors down at P-School in Bein Hoa.
I thought you Got To Be Shitten me !
Next thought was ,No Chance, Not with this Leg !
Asked him if they'd take me as is. He said sure no Problem they would work with my situtation down there.
OF Course I asked if I'd get a Leave Home.
He said I'd have to Finish my 90 or so days first then I was Guarnteed 45 Days home !
All I could say is where do I Sign !
I knew I had another year to do and didn't want to go to Bragg and all that State Side B S Again !!!!
I was on a C-130 outta Phue Bia the Next Day !
SEE YA TOP, WOULDN'T WANTTA BE YA !!!
ONLY THING I REGRET WAS NEVER SEEING MY BROTHERS AGIN WHEN THEY CAME BACK IN.
I was assigned as a Patroling, live Fire, and RTO Instructor at "SERTS" (That's what they called P-School) Then.
DID MAKE IT BACK UP TO CAMP EAGLE AND ABU WHEN LINDA PATTERSON CAME TO NAM Representing City of San Mateo X-MAS 68 TO SEE ABU.
Most of you all I was with were long gone by then !
JUNGLE JIM AND I WERE ASSIGNED TO ESCORT HER AND Lt. Steve Patterson North to the Company as Body Guards !
Never saw the three of them again until 1st Brigade Only Reunion here in Mesa Arizona in 2004 put on by Ghost Rider ,Col. Morse.
Col Morse, and Retired Brigadier General Julius Johnson ( CPT. Johnson 67-68) also live here in the Phoenix Arzona area , along with many other ABUs' of my time period and other years !!!
Alwyas looking for brothers to reconnect with. this is the Best Place to find each other once again.
Stumbled upon the Web Site in 2004 and Found Jim Grainger and that led to soooo many others.
Still Looking for Sgt. Richard Kirk.
You still out there Brother ??
Ric Smith
"Wild Bill"
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Name: Tim Zumwalt
Hometown: ,
Date: May 24, 2010 - 12:13 AM (pacific)
Planning to be in Xville next month. Don't know how to get in touch with Dale but want to reserve 3 spots at golf...c u there
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Name: Robert Budd
Hometown: Honesdale, PA
Date: May 22, 2010 - 08:46 AM (pacific)
Served in E Co 2/327 was there Sept 68 to 9/69 interested in any info of former buddies.
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Name: Cheryl Lynn Abner
Hometown: Salem, VA
Date: May 20, 2010 - 10:21 PM (pacific)
My son is with No Slack Aco
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Name: Chuck Cusumano
Hometown: ,
Date: May 20, 2010 - 02:58 PM (pacific)
I found this site while researching some old Life magazine artcles. Many thanks to those who have initiated and continued to support it.
I was with C company in the 66'/'67 time frame and served with a great bunch of guys.
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Name: Lisa Jo Swenson
Hometown: Blanchardville, WI
Date: May 19, 2010 - 11:37 PM (pacific)
I just found this site and seen my brother Bobby's picture on it. Bobby passed away 2 years before I was born. I've read so much about him and just really wish that I could've known him. I would LOVE to hear more about my brother, if any of you have any other stories about Bobby I would love to hear them.
Thank you so much to all of you who faught for our contry. God Bless!
Hometown: ,
Date: June 01, 2010 - 11:02 AM (pacific)
I am still conflicted around Memorial Day, served june of '66 to june of '67 viet nam. I cannot enjoy the "thanks of my nation and fellow citizens"; I go to where were you when I came back/needed you. Some things never change. Adios Sonny
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Name: Santos Garcia Castillo
Hometown: Ryan, Ok.
Date: May 31, 2010 - 09:54 PM (pacific)
My friends know me by "Spooky". 1/327 Co. B. 1st Plt. 69-70 " Above The Rest " "You Never forgetten" K.I.A. M.I.A. God Bless Our Troops
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Name: Santos Garcia Castillo
Hometown: Ryan, Ok.
Date: May 31, 2010 - 09:34 PM (pacific)
Vietnam-69-70-1/327th. Infantry Co. B 2nd squad. Looking for comrades.
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Name: GERALD CLARK HORNBECK
Hometown: Maricopa ,County, AZ.
Date: May 31, 2010 - 06:34 PM (pacific)
Could somebody post info about Aco stand down. Thank You.
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Name: James Phil Neel
Hometown: Dobson, North Carolina
Date: May 31, 2010 - 05:04 PM (pacific)
I was in the Tiger Force in Feb-April of 1966...looking for anyone that was there, particularly Francis J. Donovan, Jr.
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Name: Roy Dean Whitfield
Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
Date: May 31, 2010 - 03:19 PM (pacific)
Looking for comrades Co.B/1st.-327th (1969)
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Name: Jerry Husson
Hometown: Martinsburg , West Virginia
Date: May 31, 2010 - 01:04 PM (pacific)
Today we mark the official day of remembrance of those who have gone before us. However, if you live in this Great Nation of ours, we should be remembering them each and every day as they paid the ultimate sacrifice so we might enjoy the freedoms we so often take for granted. They should not and will not be forgotten as long as those of us who were spared devote ourselves to perpetuating their memory. Pray for them often and may God rest their souls. Also as they would wish pray for our veterans and for those who currently serve for it is men and women like these that have paved the way for our freedom filled lives.
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Name: Larry Boecklen
Hometown: ,
Date: May 31, 2010 - 06:53 AM (pacific)
God bless the men I served with. Those fortunate to return and those who gave all.See you in Omaha. Grey Ghost B/2/327 Jan. 67 - Jan. 68
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Name: Erick W. Miller
Hometown: Dover, Tennessee
Date: May 29, 2010 - 04:54 AM (pacific)
A safe and happy Memorial Day weekend to all my brothers. Erick
1st Plt B-Co 1st 327th Inf 101st ABN RVN Nov-'69-Nov '70
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Name: Mike Mercier
Hometown: , North Carolina
Date: May 28, 2010 - 08:25 PM (pacific)
As a WWII collector, I just stumbled across a short snorter signed by members of the 327th prior to Normandy so I was doing a little research on the site.
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Name: Robert Krawczak, Ph.D.
Hometown: Oregon City, Oregon
Date: May 28, 2010 - 03:44 PM (pacific)
I was a medic with the 35th USAF Dispensary at Phan Rang, AFB, Viet Nam, Tet 1968. Also Medic on C123's and C130's on various missions. The Army units provided excellent base protection along with the ROC's and Aussies. Thank You. Memorial Day remembered 2010.
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Name: John F. Lescher
Hometown: Grafton, Ohio
Date: May 28, 2010 - 03:05 PM (pacific)
ABU 1971..Looking for: Terry "Doc" Walker, Juan Garza (Odem Texas) Rick"Trixie"Webster "Gunner" Lt. Gary O'Kelly Bob Davis "Boston" Dennis "Pee Wee" Guymon Jim "Curly" Knox Tom "Nuckles" Kounkel George "Skeeter" Jansen Ed "New York" Pietrowski Tom "Oldpappy" Oldfather Tony "Buffalo Bill" Metzger I have photos of all of you..in the bush & on Firebases..Bastogne, Birmingham, Normandy & others
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Name: DANIEL DEMUTH
Hometown: ,
Date: May 28, 2010 - 11:20 AM (pacific)
Still currently serving deployed with 1-327 IN in Afghanistan
SSG Daniel DeMuth
Infantry 1-327 IN
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Name: Billie R Smith
Hometown: Glendale, AZ.
Date: May 28, 2010 - 10:57 AM (pacific)
Dear Sister Elaine ,
Reuben will be remembered and thought of this Memorial Day as Always.
I will say a Prayer for him .
I "For Sure" know Reuben is with Our Lord.
SIS Elaine Thanks So Very much once again for your phone call and praying with and for me the day before my heart surgery 7-21-2008.
Will never forget that and how so very deeply you touched me !
Love Ya
Wild Bill
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Name: james david baker
Hometown: pomeroy, wa
Date: May 28, 2010 - 01:06 AM (pacific)
ABU 1/327 4th platoon july 67-july 68
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Name: Billie R Smith
Hometown: Glendale, Arizona
Date: May 27, 2010 - 12:03 PM (pacific)
I just wanted to remember and pay Honor to the 4,0000 Fallen 101st Airborne Hero Brothers we lost in Vietnam.
I Especially have on my mind and in my Prayers:
________________________________________
SSG Thomas Welker
William W. Davis JR.
Jon Honrath
Joe Artavia
Jon L. Grimmett
John R. Favor,
George J. Holly lll
Willaim W. McClendon Jr.
Ernest Patrick Palcic
Anthony Eric Reed
Wayne Kidwell
* AS Well as All Those that Names I can Not Bring Up From the Cobwebs of my Mine !!!!!!!
All of Them are Not Forgotten !
I will also pay Honor and Remember those that have Passed on before us after returning to "THE WORLD" That I know of:
SSG Nathan Mudd ABU. 1st/327th 2009. Iraq
Top McDonald 2010
Jim Grainger "Jungle JIM' 2010
SSG Doyle
SSG Goshen
I will remember my Fallen Brothers from Recondo Days at Ft Campbell.
Sgt David Tanner
Whelan
and THe others that I can't Bring their names up from the recesses of my mind !
God Bless them All and May they Rest in Peace with Our Lord !!!
To My Brothers who made it Home.
"Welcome Home" and God Bless You and your Life !
Bill/ Ric Smith
"WILD BILL"
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Name: Gary RATLIFF
Hometown: ,
Date: May 27, 2010 - 11:33 AM (pacific)
I would like to wish every one a happy and safe memorial day weekend as we honor our fallen brothers,friends and relatives.It hits close to home with the passing of top,our prayers are with all.
Gary and Laura
Above The Rest
Welcome Home
Cobra Co.
65-66
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Name: Earl "Doc" Mower
Hometown: Perkiomenville, PA
Date: May 26, 2010 - 01:47 PM (pacific)
on monday,may31st memorial day 2010 Bruce Masters A/2/327 1966 Joe Carrol C/2/327 1966 Earl "Doc" Mower A/2/327 65-66 will travel to Arlinton National Cemetery to say goodbuy to Col.(R) Joseph Wasco call sign Wild Gypsy 2/327 commander 1966, interment will be on tuesday June 1st after a service in the Ft. Myer's chapel at 8am. at his 87th birthday party in Jan. many members of his officer core as well enlisted men were in attendance and a good time was had by all and the Col.was in good cheer that day. I will miss my visits to him. God Bless all service members and thier familys on this Memorial day.......Earl "Doc" Mower
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Name: Billie R Smith
Hometown: Glendale, AZ.
Date: May 26, 2010 - 01:14 AM (pacific)
Served with ABU 4th Platoon, "Weapons Platoon" July 7th 1967- April of 1968.
Hey thought I'd check in and let all those ABU's, 1/327th that are going to be attending the Second Annual ABU Stand Down in Las Vegas June 14-17 that it now looks like I will be able to attend after all !
My Great Nephew PFC Lance DeHerrera who just graduated from Basic and AIT at Fort Benning has been delayed from attending Airborne Jump School there for Now.
I had Promised Lance and His Dad I would be at his Graduation from Jump School to Pin MY WINGS ON HIM !
However Lance has been sent to Fort Drum New York and has been assigned to 1-32 10th Mountain Group, "The Chosen".
Actually his Dad tells me Lance is with 2 Brigade, "The Spartans" !
A Real Kick Ass Unit who Took it to the Taliban on their last Deployment to Afghanistan last year !
Looking forward to seeing many of the ABU's of 67-68 as well as meeting new Abu Brothers from 69-70-71 years.
Especialy excited about seeing SSG Jim Baker, Richard "Chino" Sanchez, from my days in 4th Platoon 1967-1968.Alex Yaron, "Doc Ollie" 4th Pltn 68, Carl Hillis " Doc Hillis" 67-68 Navajo Indian who was also with Tigers.
Man I'll never Forget the Look on Doc Hillis Face when I walked up to him after a resupply in the Jungle and started speaking to Him in Navajo . He was in Shock, but sooo Happy to meet someone from his Part of The World " !
Roy Agosta Machine Gunner 1st and 2nd Platoons 67-68.
Gregg Granado 2nd Pltn Bloop Gun 67-68.
Lt.Steve Patterson "Tormentor 6" 1st , 2nd Pltns 67-68.
Don Ackerman "Doc Magoo" 68-70.
David Haynes RTO 69-70.
Mil Thornton 70-71***** took over Pric-25 from David Haynes and then humped it all of 70-71. They met at my house in July 2006 once again while attending an ASA Event here in Phoenix, Amazing !
Looking Forwrad to meeting Jerry Lange , Finally also !
Sounds like ABU will be WEll Represented by those from almost all the Years in Nam !
Man it's been a Lot of Years since I've seen so many of you !
Can't wait to get to Vegas !
Sadly Jungle Jim Grainger will not be there with us, as well as many of our Brothers who have Saddled Up and Moved on Out to the Big AO , we all must go to one day !
Let's Not Forget To talk about the Great Deeds and Heroic Efforts of our Brothers who did not come home with us. I know they would Love to be there with us. It's up to us to Honor them and Include them with us.
I know that may be hard for some to do.
If Not For Them and Their Scrarafice , How many of us would be Attending !!!
I know several I owe my Life To !
It's The Honorable and Brotherly thing we can all do for them.
They are Not Forgotten, Ever !
ABU / ATR
Bill Smith
aka Rick Smith
"Wild Bill"
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Name: Billie Richard Smith
Hometown: Glendale, AZ
Date: May 25, 2010 - 06:18 PM (pacific)
Bill Smith
Thinking of All Our Fallen Brothers as another Memorial Day Approachs. May they be in the loving Arms of the Lord and at Peace.
I'm also thinking of all of you Brothers that Communicate here this Memorial day.
Pray God and Life have been good to all of you and Yours.
It's been a while since I've signed on here.
Last time was with the passing and loss of my good Friend and Buddy and our Brother James Grainger, "Jungle JIM" .
To recap my Given Name is Billie Richard Smith Jr.
My Family Always called me Rick Smith, Why ???
That's what I've gone by for all these 63 years.
Obvivously someone at the hospital couldn't spell the male version of Billy, Aye !
Those of you that knew me and I served with in Vietnam while with "ABU" 1/327 probably will remember me as Bill or Billy, Orrrrr "Wild Bill".
I Always wore a Tiger Booney Hat !
The DOD had me listed as William Smith, Bill Smith, William Bill Smith on many different sets of orders. They seemed to manage to get my RA number correct , Always!
I came in country in late June of 1967 at Camron Bay.I had orders for "THE HERD" 173rd, but was sent to Phan Rang for P-School with 20 other Brothers from Recon Pltn HHQ CO 1/502nd from Ft. Campbell Kentucky.
Never saw those 20 Recondo Brothers again until just recently this past year !
Left P-School on July 7th with Bill Bennet and others on this site.
We were assigned to "ABU" 1/327th
Hooked up with the Company in Phu Loc.
Stayed there in the rear base camp about a week.
The CO at the Time was Capt. Mitchell ("TWO CLICK" Mitchell) we called him !
I recall as I walked up to Top Dayoc's tent to Report in seeing all those guy's drinking beer, chowing down on BBQ chicken and steak and playing Volley Ball with the net set up in front of the Supply Tent,.
Hell this ain't gonna be so Bad !!!!
I was assigned to 4th Platoon Weapons Platoon. I remember a LT. was Martinez or Lopez was the 4th Platoon LT.??
This LT. kept getting Heat Stroke on our First Operation out from Phu Loc and was eventually Evaced and never seen again.
Fourth Platoon was assigned to a Rocky Hill just outside the Base camp as a Reactionary Force and to survillance the surrounding area.
Those that were up there with us will remember Humping those 5 Gallon Jerry Cans of water up that steep hill, so that LT could have his daily Shower out of that Shower Bag he had come up with.
Funny how all the Incoming Fire one night around 3 AM was concentrated on that Shower Bag !
Remember that one ???
That First day I would first meet SP4 Richard Kirk who took me under his wing as an FNG. Kirk helped me set up my Ruck, Weapon, Mags and all . I learned a Lot from Kirk in the 8 months I was with him in 4th platoon.
Have never been able to find or locate him since Nam. I believe he was from Nutley New Jersey ( not sure about the spelling). He shared with me that he had worked as a Bank Teller or Clerk before joining the Army ????
, Any of you Brothers remember him, or heard from him all these years. He was promoted to E-5 and was my Squad Leader up until he DEROS from Phue Bia. I remember being in the rear recouping after being evaced on March 23 , 1968 and going to the Phue Bia Airport to see him off.
Last time I heard from or saw him.
Ricard Kirk was a Fine man, a great and Savvy Soldier, Great Squad Leader and took great care of us. Got us ready to take care of ourselves when he had to leave us for The World !
Thanks SGT KIRK !
From Phu Loc We went to the jungle or Song Ve Valley rounding up Civilians relocating them, flying out all the livestock and rice and burning everything to the ground.
Operation Wheeler I think ???
I remember that SSG Thomas Welker was our Platoon Sgt. I went out as a rifleman, but was educated quickly as an RTO by the current RTO who decieded to hand the Pric-25 off to me.Guess he'd Humped it all he had wanted too ????
SSG Welker was KIA on July 27 from stepping on a bouncing betty. I was wounded but not seriously enough to be medi vaced.
WE were humping with a Specail Forces E-6 or E-7 and his band of CIDGs that had hooked up with us. One of the CIDGs had wondered off the trail after our lunch break and stepped on the first BB.
SSG Welker went back down the line to see what had happened
with me hot on his ass with the radio. When he too left the trail he stepped on the second BB.
Lt. Mike Norris "Rango" joined the company that smae afternnon or the next day ???
According to him it was the afternoon of the 27th .
Those who had Requested of me the details of SSG Welker's Death and that incident. I forwraded a detailed letter to, as I was his RTO and right behind him when the mine went off.
One such request came from Dan Clint who was with ABU briefly and then went on to Tigers !
I remember Operations in Song Ve Valley and others like in Chu Lai, Phan Rang, Etc, Etc,
Most vivid and burned into my mind of course was the "BIG AMBUSH" January 24th 1968 in Song Be after we had left Phan Theit Standown and having been able to spend sometime on the beach and in that soooo Salty South China Sea !
I remember after the gooks intialy opened up with what seemed like thousands of RPD Machine Guns and basically took out the point platoon, 1st platoon I believe.
There was mass confusion, and our radios had been jammed.
Lt. Tom Carpenter took charge of his own Platoon and the 4th Pltn. he assembeled us in a line parrrelel with the stream we had to cross to get to the NVA Bunkers up stream. I remember him giving the command and we all jumped off and across that stream.
Then making a right turn on line and charging those bunkers.
I don't kow about the rest of you , but I was sure that as soon as we crossed into that stream All Those RPDs were going to come back on line and Mow us all down.
I know my Ass was so Tight you Couldn't have Driven a Staright Pin up it with a 200 LB JacK Hammer ! ( LT. Norris "Rango"had Deros and had Extended to take over the Mortar Pltn on TOC )
He was not there at Song Be .
I rememner that this Redheaded Kid with giant freckles and I had somehow gotten out in front of everyone in our excitment of the moment.
Next thing I remmeber an E-6 grabbed me by the arm and told me to wait for the rest of them to catch up. Well I had to go back out to drag down the redheaded kid and bring him back to the line or he would've been out there by himself.
Until this day I can Not remember their names, but their faces are sooooo Clear to me !
We Lost a Lot of Really Good , Great Brothers there. We almost Lost the Entire Company after the NVA pinned us down for two days !
Lt Tom Carhart was hit in the leg . Med Vac and never returned to ABU.
Jerry Hankins was his RTO that Day !
LT. Tom Carpenter went on to become Tiger 6 for Awhile after he recovered from his wounds !
I recall being flown into the Air Base at Phan Rang for 1967 X-Mas stand down. I remember we discovered the Air Force had a Hamburger Joint. Stand set up on the Flight Line , and we bought, Stole every burger, fry, and coke they had.
I believe in the end at the threat of "LOCK and LOAD' to the Airmen running that Joint !
After Song Be January 24, 25, and 26 we were hilo back out to Phan Theit I believe. and on to Da Nang. From Da Nang we were trucked up Highway 1 to Phue Bia.
I remember going over that Big Pass outside of Da Nang.
Lt. Steve Patterson had been brought in to Repalce Lt,. Carpenter. Jim Grainger and Lt, Patterson had the Company Guide On standing up in their truck when they hit a Tree Limb and Broke off the Guide On.
Top Dayoc was Pissed.
When we arrived in Phue Bia there was nothing there except for an SS Camp by the Highway.
Not sure how long we stayed there, but remember getting back on some Deuce and Halfs that the bottoms of the beds were covered with c-rats.
We headed back south down highway 1 for about 20 to 40 miles and then turned Inland on a muddy road towards the mountains. I remember this large hill that sat all alone in the low land with the mountains high above it on three sides.
It was a Marine position , Base camp, Arty Position ????
I remember first thing we saw was that they had one big tent right on top and center of the hill. It was Riddled with holes from Shrapnel and you could almost see right through it.
We were assigned to share fighting positions and bunkers with the Jarheads for a least that first night.
Sure as hell me got the crap mortared out of us that night. The Jar heads told us it was a nightly thing.
Duuuuuh no wonder the NVA were up there on the High Ground !
The jar heads had tried to go up the ridge and kick them off 2 to 3 times, but had failed miserably.
That became ABU's Job, Oh Yeah !
I remember those Jar Heads telling us how envious they were of our weapons, equipment, and gear. Many expressed that they wished they were going with us. I felt Sorry for them.
Being stuck there !
It took Abu a couple attempts , but once the NVA realized who they were up against they Boogied ASS !
We worked the Thue Thein Province area for some time after that. I remember Hills. Mountains, Brushy Terrain, Jungle on the Higher areas.
I had been promoted to Sgt E-5 sometime after the Song Be Ambush. I think around the 1st week in Feb. 1968. I was given Fire Team or a Squad ??
I was scared to Death with being given that resposability, but had to adapt quickly !
Sometime in March Alex Yaron Doc Ollie Joined the Company and 4th Platoon.
I remember one morning 4th platoon was given point. My team or squad drew the point that morning.
We had set up a perimeter on the side of a mountain the night before. I had a Trooper that loved to walk point. I remember him being skinny and blonde headed. Can't remember his name to save my Sole.
At any Rate we had been told we had drawn point and I did a weapons check on all my guys. Well the Point mans weapon looked like s Rust Bucket. I couldn't believe it an chewed his Ass out for it and told him it better be spotless, shining and well oiled when I got back from the CP Meeting.
Capt Johnson was the Co. He was being pushed by "GHOST RIDER" to get to humpin that morning.
Intelligence knew there was plenty of NVA in that area and Ghost Rider was wanting some "Body CounT"
Well as fate would have it we were being really rushed to Saddle Up and Get Humpin.
I never had the time to physically check my point mans weapon. Asked if he had cleaned it and was ready for point.
Roger That Sarge.
So we moved out working our way around this mountain.
We didn't get very far when we came upon a RED BALL going straight to the top.
Called back and was told to get on it and see where it took us.
We
hadn't gone 40 feet or so I bet when point walked into the NVA's Point man.
DODGE CITY SHOOT OUT !
My man got one round off and his 16 Jammed up.the NVA Point put one right through his heart. He was dead when he hit the ground.
I was third or fourth in the Column. After ths slack man who I think was Chino Sanchez had emptied a mag up trail we with drew a little and got the Squad on Line.
Chino had the idea and suggested that he and I crawl out to check on our brother and set up a couple of hasty Claymores on either side of the trail. Which we did.
Oh Yeah Tight Ass Hole Again , Damn !
Chino and I moved back to the Squad.
By then most of 4th Platoon had come up on Line with us on either side of the trail.
I was a little back and on the horn to the LT. or Capt Johnson .
When Sure as Hell here came Charlie. Claymores got set off everyone opened up.
I remember running back up to the line and coming down right next to Sgt Ricard Kirk.
I let loose with a burst and almost Blasted Kirks Ear Drum out !
Kirk if you're out there I'm Still sooooooooo Sorry About that. Hope you didn't have problems with that after you got out of the Army Brother !
We Ran the NVA OFF.I say this because we had no Body Count and No Blood Trails.
We couldn't believe it !
Recovered our Brothers Body . Cut a LZ and sent him Home !
Until this Day I blame myself for his Death. If I had just quickly made him break his 16 open before we moved out. I could've given him mine, assigned someone else point , or taken point myself that morning,
Damn It, DamnIt, Dammmmmn It !
The next few weeks are really Foggy in my Memory.
Next thing I remember we were still up in them hills in Thue Thein.
We got the word that on March 4th the City of San Mateo, Calif had Adopted ABU.
Doc Ollie got hit around March 5th or so .
Then on March 23 we were coming out of some heavy brush into a small clearing when a Gook Sniper opened up on us.
I remember we were hauling Ass for cover and to get out of that open area.
I was Flat Out for the other side and cover.
When I broke through into the cover Full Out there was a really steep bank right there. I couldn't stop myself and went flying down that bank manageing to stay on my feet somehow, but there was a small stream at the bottom and as I lept over itto the other bank which was just as steep and rocky.
I came down on my left foot only at a bad angle and snapped my ankle with full Ruck and all on me.
Well some of the brothers took my ruck, and all and helped me up out of that gully .
That sniper had the company pretty well zeroed in.
I remember Top Dayoc had thrown his Sweat Towel over a tree limb and that gook was putting rounds through his towel .
Dayoc was cussing up a Storm and screaming for someone to get out there and get that F@#*%#@1 gook.
I believe Jim Grainger and some others from 1st pltn went out and Zapped Him !
There were others who had been hit and in much worse shape than I. They were sent out first and I went out last back to Camp Eagle Aid Station then we all were put in ambulances and sent to some big Mash Unit near Phue Bia just off highway 1.
I spent a few days, Broke my ankle really bad, maybe a week there and was sent back to ABU 's area at Camp Eagle with a Cast on up to my left knee????
Then ABU came in from the hills for a Stand Down.
We all got Drunk, Ate Steak and Chicken for 5 Days, and then you all went back out.
I was back there in the rear with one or two other guys recouping when we got our new Top.
He was a Really Old Guy and a Big Boozer.
Got up every Morning with a Banging head and a hard on for where he was !!!????
After awile he started bugging me and trying to find any Shit Deatil he Could for me to do.
He Finally Got Tired of me falling outta my Cot shit faced in the morning and had me go down and get on a chopper headed out to TOC.
He siad he wanted me out of his sight. I could a least pull bunker duty out there.
Talk about being one Lucky guy in Nam. When that Chopper sat down on the TOC LZ the Arty Major or Col. was right there. He came over to me and asked me waht the F@*#@#* I was doining on his F%#@#*g Hill.
I told him my Top had sent me out. The Whole story.
He told me to get my Ass back on that Bird and to tell Top if he Tried to send me back out there that he would personally see to it he was Court martialed.
Worked for me, but didn't want to face that Boozer when I got Back !
Well Top was Pissed when I came limping back into ABU area. Told him what the Col had said.
He Pretty much let me do what the hell I wanted to from then on.
Hell he even gave me a couple of other troopers a Deuce and Half and sent me down highway 1 for Da Nang on a Beer Run.
I'm Talkin Pallets of Beer to get back up to Phue Bia so it would be there when the ABU came in for their next Stand down.
Was supposed to be a 2 day run. Took us a week. Hooked up with a Marine E-7 CID and we partyed our asses off for three days in Da Nang and Monkey Mountain.
Well I got all the shit burning I wanted to last a Life time after that.
Why he didn't Bust Me was beyond me !
Anyway had gone down the hill to the mess tent for lunch one day after all that ,and as I was limping back up to the ABU area I had to pass by S-1 or S-2 tents. There was some Lt. asking all the guys if they wanted to extend their tours. I laughed at him saying I only had 90 Days, and they were probably looking for suicide Door Gunners.
Got about half way up the hill and thought ,oh crap let me go see what they are wanting.
I asked the Lt. what they were looking for, Door Gunners??
He said no Sarge we need Instructors down at P-School in Bein Hoa.
I thought you Got To Be Shitten me !
Next thought was ,No Chance, Not with this Leg !
Asked him if they'd take me as is. He said sure no Problem they would work with my situtation down there.
OF Course I asked if I'd get a Leave Home.
He said I'd have to Finish my 90 or so days first then I was Guarnteed 45 Days home !
All I could say is where do I Sign !
I knew I had another year to do and didn't want to go to Bragg and all that State Side B S Again !!!!
I was on a C-130 outta Phue Bia the Next Day !
SEE YA TOP, WOULDN'T WANTTA BE YA !!!
ONLY THING I REGRET WAS NEVER SEEING MY BROTHERS AGIN WHEN THEY CAME BACK IN.
I was assigned as a Patroling, live Fire, and RTO Instructor at "SERTS" (That's what they called P-School) Then.
DID MAKE IT BACK UP TO CAMP EAGLE AND ABU WHEN LINDA PATTERSON CAME TO NAM Representing City of San Mateo X-MAS 68 TO SEE ABU.
Most of you all I was with were long gone by then !
JUNGLE JIM AND I WERE ASSIGNED TO ESCORT HER AND Lt. Steve Patterson North to the Company as Body Guards !
Never saw the three of them again until 1st Brigade Only Reunion here in Mesa Arizona in 2004 put on by Ghost Rider ,Col. Morse.
Col Morse, and Retired Brigadier General Julius Johnson ( CPT. Johnson 67-68) also live here in the Phoenix Arzona area , along with many other ABUs' of my time period and other years !!!
Alwyas looking for brothers to reconnect with. this is the Best Place to find each other once again.
Stumbled upon the Web Site in 2004 and Found Jim Grainger and that led to soooo many others.
Still Looking for Sgt. Richard Kirk.
You still out there Brother ??
Ric Smith
"Wild Bill"
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Name: Tim Zumwalt
Hometown: ,
Date: May 24, 2010 - 12:13 AM (pacific)
Planning to be in Xville next month. Don't know how to get in touch with Dale but want to reserve 3 spots at golf...c u there
________________________________________
Name: Robert Budd
Hometown: Honesdale, PA
Date: May 22, 2010 - 08:46 AM (pacific)
Served in E Co 2/327 was there Sept 68 to 9/69 interested in any info of former buddies.
________________________________________
Name: Cheryl Lynn Abner
Hometown: Salem, VA
Date: May 20, 2010 - 10:21 PM (pacific)
My son is with No Slack Aco
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Name: Chuck Cusumano
Hometown: ,
Date: May 20, 2010 - 02:58 PM (pacific)
I found this site while researching some old Life magazine artcles. Many thanks to those who have initiated and continued to support it.
I was with C company in the 66'/'67 time frame and served with a great bunch of guys.
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Name: Lisa Jo Swenson
Hometown: Blanchardville, WI
Date: May 19, 2010 - 11:37 PM (pacific)
I just found this site and seen my brother Bobby's picture on it. Bobby passed away 2 years before I was born. I've read so much about him and just really wish that I could've known him. I would LOVE to hear more about my brother, if any of you have any other stories about Bobby I would love to hear them.
Thank you so much to all of you who faught for our contry. God Bless!
