The entries this week regarding the ravaging of Phan Rang pulled me back to the wild days as strongly as anything has for a long time. Mr. Henke and Mr. Gilliland it is great to hear from you guys and to hear your memories of some of those days. Someone said that the memories of that day and night as guests of the USAF are murky, for me they are eighty proof and sudsy. However, I have one fuzzy memory that I want to see if anyone can confirm. The O-Club at Phan Rang was unlike any I remember seeing in Vietnam. My recollection is that there were some sort of patio doors that led out onto a nice veranda. I think there were some round eyed babes there with 0-4's and 0-5's that were old enough to be their fathers. Anyway, there was a new guy pilot who I think might have been Bill Shilletto(sp) (if Bill was a slender, dark-haired guy who looked like he was maybe nineteen) and for some reason unknown to me now we vastly more mature and dedicated A/C type aviators decided he was wearing entirely too many clothes and we proceed to gang strip him right there in the O-Club! I think we got him nearly in the buff when he escaped out onto the patio where at least a few of the round eyes were enjoying their cocktails. Now, I can't be absolutely certain that all of this really happened. But, I do know that we all went just a little more loony than the normally refined young gentlemen that we were back home at Lane. I hope I can get some confirmation regarding this incident. After I came home from Vietnam, for the longest time whenever I talked about my experiences there this is the type of insanity I would tell people about -- it would be nice to know if my version of five minutes of that day has any validity. Keep 'em in the green! Lurch
Keith "Lurch" Weisheit <keith.weisheit@insightbb.com>
USA - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 23:57:46 (MDT)
DAVE POWERS, Actually, I may have been Animals pp on the Phan Rang episode. My cell is 814-558-0156. Home 814-362-0103 At work I can generally be reached on my back line from noon-1pm, sometimes before 8am or after 5pm. 814-362-1579. If one of my staff answer just tell them we were in 129th together. That will get you in.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher>
Bradford, Pa USA - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 15:08:49 (MDT)
The battle of Phan Rang, hhmmm. maybe set to Charlie Daniels, Uneasy Rider??? Come to think of it, it was after that little sojourn that I got sent off to 111 corps. Got back and the Ah1's were in our revetments....a mighty sad day. Alemaster, what was Fred's last name? Short guy, used to talk about how he used to hang inverted to stretch out enough to pass the heighth requirement.
Kim
USA - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 14:52:37 (MDT)
Kim, the air conditioning description is pretty accurate. If there is a musician out there, maybe he or she could compose a song about the "Battle of Phan Rang". I think I'll run it by one of my musician buds and see what he can come up with... It would probably hit the Stars and Stripes Top 40 on AFVN radio... maybe go platinum. Animal, my apologies... I thought we were still with the Rebel together. Dennis Faucher, please give me your phone number.
Dave Powers
USA - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 14:24:29 (MDT)
Ron paye came by work,,says his PC is down but he IS getting ready for KOkomo and will be there early this year. see you in 2 weeks........
alvis
USA - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 13:20:18 (MDT)
Say did you guys get the same jeep that we used to get from the AF at Tuy Hoa???, it was a great one and we thanked them on a regular bases, when we came back from time to time. Animal I think that you are a Pilot, and you remind me of Shag nasty, and Ski King, they were and still are great Men. I often wonder where they are now, I think that Mr Wilbert, (Shag Nasty) went to Australia after Nam to fly with some airlines down there. Got to go now and mow the lawn again. Have a great Day Brothers. 745 out.
Joe 745
USA - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 10:16:43 (MDT)
Friar, You and Gary ( Squire ) named Tom Roy Regent. He was a CPT then flying OH-58s with the Casper guys until they stood down. As he had been a WO gunnie with the 170th on his first tour, his a/c transition took about 30 seconds. You also named me Alemaster; never could figure that one out. About that time we picked up a second tour LT who had done thr ROTC thing after his first Special Forces tour. 1LT Larry Jordan, I believe, paired up with 1LT Wayne Fiske. We also picked up another 1LT. All three were good guys and worked well with everyone in the platoon. Oakie continued to gun for us; I believe he was a retread 11B who came over after humping a ruck. Damn good with the '60 but all of our guys were damn good!! Neat thing about being up front was the trust we had for our guys in the back; they were SH.. Phang Rang caused a lot of trouble for us!! vpg
Vic Gilliland <Vic.Gilliland@flightsafety.com>
San Antonio, TX USA - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 09:27:28 (MDT)
This has been asked before...but now there are new faces.Remembering back when....We asembeled ,I believe,on our own flight line for a C.A. We flew ,as one flight,across the mountian ,in Back of Lane,by the pass,to pick up waiting ROKs.They were in full camo, branches and leaves stuck out of the web gear and helmets.They were armed to the teeth,it looked like D-day,all over again. We recieved them on board,the word came down,off we go,dust flying everywhere,wopping of the blades echoing off the surrounding hills.Passing thru transition,picking up air speed and altitude,the real work began,C.A.time. The pilots jockied thebirds into formation,the gunners checked,one last time,that all was well with the guns,making sure they were loaded and chambered.Once again,showdown time was approaching.Time to get very serious,we were going to face Mr. Charles..maybe.The tension was thick,as the "camo" the ROKs had inserted into their helmets,started to come loose and fly about the cabins .When over the radios was heard,"Damn,that stuff flying around is marijuana".Looking across the sky at our sister birds,I could see crewmen stufing ammo cans and shirts. I still laugh about this.
alvis
USA - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 05:47:36 (MDT)
Our Living quarters resembeled a shantytown, but effective scrounging made them kinda comfortable. My favorite hootch belonged to "Rebel" Smith and LT. Barber. It was two rooms converted into one big one, totally dark, lite only with blacklights, and featured the killer soundsystem. Compared to the grunts, we lived pretty good, but we were blown away by the Airforce lifestyle. Their place was like Uday Hussein's Palace. Matching Wicker furnature, nice rugs, pictures on the walls.....They even had a real theatre! The movie that night was "The Red Baron" with George Hamilton. I recall a scene where george is standing by the famous red Triplane with a beautiful babe, and some Army creep yells out loud: "FOKKER!"...........Anyway, aside from the condescending way the Airforce treated us, we kinda resented their oppulent lifestyle, especially since about all they did was sit around guarding airplanes all day. We decided it would be a good example of interservice "cooperation" to relieve them of some of their more ratty furniture. I think the AF in VietNam needed more to do, because Orders must have come from Washington:Use all resources, Get those chairs back! If I'm not mistaken, by the time the Criminal investigators finally found the contriban, it had been moved to our CO's hootch. LOL!.......I sure don't party like I used to, and we all did some serious and skilled shit while over there, but the "Battle of Phan Rang" reminds me of the Army recruiting motto for Helicopter pilots:"From High School to Flight School". How young we were....Every so often it must have been like a "Frat" party.............With Grenade Launchers.
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 02:25:59 (MDT)
OH I for got, the 2nd flight with Mr Wilbert, better known as (Shag nasty) and also Sky King, they were always geting some goodies for us. The Co back then though that if he left us alone, that he would have to come and check on us because he did not know if we could fend for our selves, Alot he did not know. Big BBqs with the Rock marines big partys, where we got the food, they got boozs, we did better alone than with the rest of the pack most of the time. night flight, 745 out.
745
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 21:08:11 (MDT)
WOW guys...........cool, lots of fun times recalled here latly..........always a brother
Mark
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 20:44:37 (MDT)
I think that I was a day late and a doller short, You Guys had way to much time on your hands. Alex and I, with all the rest of the crasey pilots, had a hard time finding things like mattress and all the stuff you guys could find. We had, I think about 4 pilots, and they were WO,s And we though that thay were the best scrounges we had ever known. they could get us allmost any thing from liquor, Steaks, chicken, (Vienna sausage),Ha ha ha it was comming out our ears. The only guys that we could give them to was those 101 Guys, they would eat aney thing that came in a can. some times they would try to give us a case of beer, but we just could not take it, #1. we would get caught with it... #2. they needed it more than we did. I rember one time I wanted to trade a case of vienna sausage fot 1 box of C's. we asked them if they liked Vienns and said yeah........ and gave them 4 cases of them and got back 4 or 5 cases of c's back. NO No No just one Box!!! not a case. those grunts had to much sand in there heads but great guys. To bad I did not stick around for the mattress party and all of you Guys. My wife and I laughted, now she knows we did have some fun. Have a great day tomorrow 129th family. 745.
Anemones 745
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 20:33:43 (MDT)
Now that I have had more time to think about it, I don't think that it was Cpt Roy that we named. For sure Gary Carlson was one, we named him Baron I think. The other one was a second tour 1lt but I think we named him Jester. Does anyone remember an RLO Cobra AC named Jester? Was "Okie" Bass still flying door gun in those days? He was one of the best and you could always count on him. Sorry to hear about Shakey Pete. He was also one of my favs although he could really piss me off on occasion.
Mike Kiefer <mkiefer1@tampabay.rr.com>
St. Petersburg, fl USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 20:16:49 (MDT)
HI FLIGHT JUST CHECKING IN BUSY TRYING TO MAKE THE CHASE JUST OUTSIDE BUSY TIME IN RACING THIS TIME OF YEAR MORE LATER GO BIFF
RICK STEVENSON <TRUCKCOPYER@AOL.COM>
SOUTHSIDE, AL USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 19:51:59 (MDT)
Oh yeah....the hootches were air conditioned, the hangar was air conditioned, even the flight line was air conditioned........whatever the air was, that was the condition :>). The NCO club had AC. I used to promote myself most nights when I wanted to go for a few drinks. No one seemed to care. Heck, I even got promoted to wobbly won a few times!
Kim
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 19:45:22 (MDT)
Is it true that the 129th EM houches had "air condition" by 1971?.......Poor ole Gale Beard, J.W.Wilson, Alex, they had to sleep in tents......When I was there Officers had AC....Senior NCO`s had air also.......But we had that half screen and half wood houches.....and blue fans....LOL
Fred Skaggs
Summit , NJ USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 17:05:22 (MDT)
DAVE POWERS, Animal was already and AC by time I joined the 129th in Sept 71.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 14:55:10 (MDT)
As I remember after we raped and pillaged the Phan Rang clubs and billets, we were only allowed in the POL area for refueling..and that was as far as we go, and then only if we couldn't go anywhere else.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
Bradford, Pa USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 14:53:19 (MDT)
Kim, Vic, Animal, et.al. I had the distinct privilege of witnessing the fire extinguisher incident... Animal, I think you were my P/P and Rebel was A/C. I kept my AF mattress (and I think a nice poncho liner) until DEROS. Remember the AF guys and their little Yamahas cruising around on asphalt roads? That place never got any rest that night. Bubble polish!!!:>>>
Dave Powers
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 14:47:52 (MDT)
ROLLING, ROLLING, ROLLING ON THE REE VER!!! Cups, where are you?...Alemaster, didn't Ctp. Roy, (Regent) come down from Casper, mid 71?
Kim
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 13:34:51 (MDT)
The Battle of Phan Rang.......:>)) brings a smile to my face, just thinking about it! We were sent there to protect our ships from a typhoon. Little did the airdayles know that we WERE the typhoon! On the EM side, we invaded the NCO club, a vc band that had been at Lane was playing, so we knew what they could play, and got on stage and helped them sing. Someone fell and broke a table and a bunch of chairs. Most of the airhounds left before the mp's arrived so it was us against the mp goons. After they got us out, we went looking for our pilots, but couldn't get near the O club......I went down to the bomb shelters where my ship was, with the intention of sleeping on the deck. When I got there, the doors were closed and the windows were covered with bubble polish. Seeing that I hadn't left it like that, I immediately got nervous that someone had gotten ahold of all the contraband weapons, and threw open the left door. I nearly got knocked out by a poppasan chair that was wedged against a folded mattress, which came flying out! Took a little bit of struggle to get it back in there, the whole interior was filled with mattresses, a couple chairs, a coffee table...only thing missing was a cyclo girl :>))...come to find out, the pilots had all but cleaned out the "O" club and a barracks. We thought WE were the crazies??? Couldn't hold a candle to the pilots, for sure. The rest of the night is a blurr. Next morning, bright and early, we saddled up and headed north. I was expecting base security to deny us taxi clearance so they could check out why all the cargo doors were closed while we hovered to the take off point. Once we got clear of the taxiway, it was open doors, attach all available smoke grenades, pull pins, pull pitch, and buzz the field.....I know I was in the lead element, and, thinking back, I looked back and saw nothing but smoke, and hueys climbing out of it, like they were popping out of a fog bank. Some of the guys should have filed IFR, it was that thick!.... when we got back to Lane, it was hurry and get that stuff off the ships and into the line shack while the pilots rounded up a truck and took a bunch of it into officer country. A couple days later, it all came back down the hill, and got stashed in a few conex's, while the air force filed a bunch of complaints about 'someone' stealing their stuff!!! Hell, it was all U.S. property, right?...the rest of the story belongs to the pilots. The airdayles were so incensed at them, that anything we did was forgotten......Alemaster, I know that Soothsayer flew PP that time. I can't remember who the AC was.
Kim
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 13:26:45 (MDT)
be the first one on the block,to send home an AK-47 home in a box
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 12:10:45 (MDT)
You guys are right, it must have been Phan Rang. I always got those AF Bases mixed up. They wouldn't let me on the base at Pleiku once, because I had a pink tie-dyed tee shirt on under my flight suit. Remember the morning after the Phan Rang Melee, the AF psy-ops plane flying over the base at about 3000 ft with loudspeakers blaring Country Joe and the Fish?......Gimme an F.......Gimme a U........ Gimme a C..............Gimme a K,.......And it's one, two, three, whata we fightin for............?? What a Hoot!!
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 12:04:30 (MDT)
yep,it was late 71,when the cyclone was headed towards lane and,at the last minute,veered of to the north,wipeing out chu lia.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 11:20:27 (MDT)
ANIMAL, I think DAVE POWERS is right. If that was the typoon of what Nov. 71, we went to Phan Rang. Stayed in the nice Air Force barracks, Trashed the state side quality O club, and ran with as many thick mattresses as we could steal. Most low leveled back to Lane past Tuy Hoa feet wet to avoid the Air Forces required stop there to retrieve the contraban mattresses. Also, was Durden the CO up to when MAJ. Jones arrived? I have never been able to remember that guys name.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher>
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 10:20:12 (MDT)
The battle of Phan Rang? I gotta hear about that one. Gary Jones (Squire) and I (Friar) gave Tom his name and I recommended him for his AC check ride after letting him fly right seat on a couple of missions. As I recall he was a second tour man and an ex warrant. He was a 1LT when I knew him. Abel was the newby platoon leader at the time. He wasn't one of my favorites but then who cares? So what happened in Phan Rang?
Mike Kiefer <mkiefer1@tampabay.rr.com>
St. Petersburg, Fl USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 09:52:10 (MDT)
Animal, It was the "Battle of Phan Rang." It got CPT Bill Able (Knave) reassigned, CPT Tom Roy (Regent) in a lot of trouble, and the rest of the the Gun Platoon recommended for Article 15. BG McKinnon, the 1ST AVN BDE Commander, dismissed the charges as brought forth by COL something or another, "the Hawk," at 17th Group HQ. It wasn't long after that we starting getting AH-1s to replace our C/M. As an aside, I always believed that the slicks, down to the man, in our company were the bravest, most disciplined crews that I could ever hope to work for. Always knew that you guys were monitoring our gun freq when we were out screwing around and that if any of us ever got in trouble, there would be a traffic jam of Animal, Thor, Rebel, Lurch, Shadow, St. Nick, and everyone else coming to get us. Thanks! Hey Kim, Smitty. Alemaster
Vic Gilliland <Vic.Gilliland@flightsafety.com>
San Antonio, TX USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 09:00:23 (MDT)
very well put alvis. i was one of those crazies, as you put it. i trained as a sheet metal repair. it kept me safe from harms way for the most part. but i wsanted to more, i guess.i got my first taste of flying at fort riely with the 238th awc.i sat as a door gunner during practice run with live ammo. i loved it.thats when i knew i wanted to fly, but because the company already had its flight crews at that time i couldn't transfer.in march of 69 we arrived at AN KNE, lovely place,in april of69 i was transferred to the 129th, still a tin kncker.hated it, still wanted to fly.about three months later i got out of sheet metal an assigned to P.O.L. an put in charge. thanks to sgt. reeves. that gave me the oppertunity to fly with the guns as a stand by gunner.a slot opened up an i was made perminnet. never regreted it.an i guess one can say i was a second generation door gunner, my dad was a waste gunner in ww2 flying in B-17s. his crew named thier ship HELLS ANGLES. i guess from the get go i was born with the desire to fly. wink 3/69- 10/70
wink
lake wales, fl USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 08:45:31 (MDT)
animal your right it was phan rang which is located just south of cam rhan, about 6 months after the incident your talking about we had to send an officer down to do a accident investigation and they would not let him in the o club.
donnie purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
Linwood, n.c. USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 07:48:28 (MDT)
Animal, didn't the fire extinguisher incident actually happen in Phan Rang instead of Cam Rhan? Kim and I remember the "acquisition" of several mattresses and fine furniture there also. Unfortunately, I can remember little else except leaving Phan Rang in a stream of glory with multi-colored smoke grenades safety-wired to the skids.
Dave Powers
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 07:27:21 (MDT)
When i think back to my time spent with the helicopter units in vietnam,it makes me proud.It takes a special person to fly,everyday,doing what we did.Most of us didnt know the "score" when we signed up to fly. Many were the resons and i think that perhaps those reasons changed a little,as we spent our time in the air. I believe we have a direct linage back to those brave men who flew over Germany in WW 2..as pilots or gunners,crewmembers.At one time,we were highly respected,,that has passed now,except by those who were there,or those who remember.Even today,I hear someone say,mostly nam vets,"you guys were crazy".Perhaps thats why,dispite the difference in our time spans,we remain a tightly knit "band ".few wanted our job and those who transfered in from other jobs,were considered very crazy,but welcomed with open arms by us,and became part of the "band".We were protective of out ground based brothers.When the call went out,we did our best.When we heard one of our ships went down,all hell broke loose,in our hearts as well as in the sky,trying to find them,to get to them.I think only cops and firefighters can understand that feeling...and perhaps mothers.I believe we were a very special breed of warriors,shrug, i cant define it,but its a glue that still holds us together.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 06:46:04 (MDT)
Readjustment Blues: Just out of the Army this morning, I had to pay my dues across the sea. No one back in boot camp ever warned me what the readjustment blues would do to me. "Welcome to Havana", said the pilot. "We must have made a wrong turn on the way. Let's buy some cigars and keep it quiet, if they don't know we're here we'll get away." Just as I had realized he was joking, I saw we were in Washington D.C. 'Cause there was all the patriotic buildings, just like I had seen them on TV. It must have been a holiday, 'cause there was this parade. People carried signs, I couldn't read, that they had made 'Till I got closer and my heart fell to my socks, there was a battle raging and the air was filled with teargas and rocks. There was the flag I'd fought against so often, the one I fought for hanging upside down. The wind was blowing hard, the dirt was flying, it made the city sky look dark and brown. I saw a girl, she could have been my sister, except her hair was long and in her face. She explained this was a demonstration against the war and for the human race. Now, I've seen a lot of strange things in my travels. Cannibals, yes, and aliens galore. But I never thought I'd see so many people saying we don't want your war! The troops all had on uniforms just like the one I'd worn, but they were all domestic and my duty tour was war. They carried guns just like the ones across the sea, except this time, I was the citizen, and they were pointing their guns at me. Yes, I was just a citizen, and I was walking down the street, And it was just that night, the readjustment blues got through to me.
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 05:19:25 (MDT)
The Air medal was earned not given. You can get your updated medals by sending off for the dd 215. I do remember the form you need it can be found by looking up that #of document on a search engine like google. I think it is document mitlitary.gov.******We also supported the pathfinders out of english and the SF some where northeast of Qui Nhon about 2 hours flying. I usggest you get that form for your records at the VA. Flight be careful out there. BUlldog431
Rick England
USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 04:32:26 (MDT)
Alvis very will put not being a hero just means your human. i always thing of a hero as a normal indivual thats in the wrong place at the right time. Mark if you think about the way the air medal was awarded you will see that even during the war (sorry conflict) most of the flights were not considered combat related. you got 1 air medal for every 50 hours of non combat flight and 1 air medal for every 25 hrs of what was considered combat flight. which was a joke i flew in vietnam form aug 69 - april 71 and from aug 71 - jul 72 and only received 7 air medals even though we loged close to 100 hours a month, there was one month i put my aircraft in 100 pe twice. Rhonda i wish i had accepted the purple heart now so i could give it to your dad, it would not be legal but it would be right.
donnie purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
linwood, nc USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 03:51:48 (MDT)
YO Alemaster! Speaking of Terrorists; Remember when we assaulted the Air Force O Club at Cam Rahn Bay? ( Typhoon of '71). I personally hosed down a Full Bird with a Fire Extinguisher. He bravely sat there sipping his drink. That might be the operation that got our CO; Capt. Durden, promoted to Warrant Officer! LOL
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 21:49:24 (MDT)
Alvis, I am sorry from your comment that I did not make it clear on what we're looking for. Bottom line: as a Special Operations unit, Capt. Parker's boss wants to make sure that our lineage is tied to a unit that played a role in Army Rotary Wing Aviation's infant years in the spec-ops support game. By no means is he asking for war stories because he knows there are things no one wants to remember; they are the same way in their recounting of actions. Basically, he was looking for, "we did support for unit A, B, C, etc. from 19whatever to 19whatever in AO BFE." He also, in no way, wants to exclude any one PLT of the 129th; i.e. slicks or guns. Once he gets some more information, Cpt. Parker can package a history and lineage to present to his boss for approval.
Dan Hertlein
Lake Tapps, WA USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 21:47:22 (MDT)
Hey Kim, Thanks. What do they call that? Sublime messaging?;-)))).......RHONDA, You are a True, and Great American.................There are no words to explain an individual visit to the Wall. Only the heart really knows what it is like and each visit for each person is different but healing. I am so glad that you are here with us. This also is a place to heal. Larry was burned up too. No Purple heart. List as Non combat. Go figure. I think if you set a foot on the red soil over there, you were in combat.......dang equation of, Mountain + JP4 + aluminium magnesium = Cost of Freedom, in most cases.........God Bless you all........Ya got me Smitty.........Love to all............always a brother.......
Mark
USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 21:26:15 (MDT)
Rhonda,Donnie is correct.Many people get passed over that deserve the "heart",cause no one heard or saw someone shooting.You fly into a besieged base to resupply them with water and food and ammos so they can hold out just a bit longer,something happens,you crash...no "heart" cause some one didnt shoot at you.Not only that ...but now OUR goverenment tells us helicopter folks that we didnt have a combat job so how can we have ptsd?
alvis
USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 21:17:33 (MDT)
Kim,I believe that in our hearts,we know what a hero is.Not being a hero doesnt make you a coward,it makes you human.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 21:09:24 (MDT)
Hi Rhonda Hi Rhonda I dont want this to sound cold, im just trying to explain under what conditions the purple heart is awarded. A very good friend of mine ( i was his door gunning when i was with the 92nd ahc) went down during a combat insertion but the crash was ruled not by enemy fire. the cause of the crash was a grade being carried by one of the troops on board exploded, and his injuries were considered not due to direct contact with the enemy so he was denied the purple heart. From what you have said the crash that caused your father injuries was due to a freak accident therefore he would not be entitled to the purple heart. the crash must have been cause be direct contact with the enemy i.e being shot down or some other enemy action. The most ridicules thing is that i was offered a purple heart (i turned it down cause i did not believe i deserved it) cause i was injured during a mortar attack. the only problem is i was cleaning my m60 when the first mortar landed, it startled me and i hit myself in the head with the front sight. took 15 stitches to close it. and they want to give me a purple heart. but guys like your father and steve are injured in the line of duty and they get nothing. they deserve more than the purple heart. god bless and keep you. donnie purvis
donnie purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
linwood, nc USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 21:08:47 (MDT)
Vic, nice to see you post. Always wondered about "Johnny D." I flew a couple C&C's with him. Never did like him much. Fred A. Thanks for the Cann Video it was nicely done. Mark, have i told you i LOVE YOU today. Gotcha, >>>> Smitty
jim westwang 71-72
Sheridan, wy USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 15:40:46 (MDT)
Lurch, Animal, Glad to see you're "up." How many times did I try to call you while I was on the road Lurch? Funny story about Johnny Durden. I stayed in and flew airplanes after my tour in the Gun Platoon. My last duty was as the fixed wing Standards Officer, SIP/IFE, for all the OSA airplanes west of the Mississippi. Standing in ops one day, a crew from Barstow-Daggett comes waltzing in. One of the pilots was CW3 Johnny Durden. I introduced myself as CW5 Gilliland and told him that he had been my commander in the 129th. Also mentioned that I knew he would go far, just didn't think it would be to Warrant Officer. Alemaster
Vic P. Gilliland <Vic.Gilliland@flightsafety.com>
San Antonio, TX USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 14:21:18 (MDT)
Heros......it's all in the eye of the beholder. I'm not a hero just because I chose to fly over there. I was a volunteer, as were all the other aircrew. Does that mean that the maintenance guys were cowards????? Not in my mind......One of the best descriptions of the word 'hero' is someone who is scared to death, and still does what needs to be done. Makes no difference if it's the twin towers or a two story building in a small town. Once they knew they were in danger of dying, and still did their jobs, they became hero's......WE went out one night, low and slow, every light blazing away, trying to draw fire, does that make us hero's??? Nope, means we were stupid!!!!out of respect for you, Mark, I won't respond to that right wing, neo con, no nothing,garbage.LOL
Kim
Livermore, Me. USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 13:05:45 (MDT)
Daddy had 80% burns on his body.
Rhonda
USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 11:22:35 (MDT)
Alvis,-Thanks. I was in awe while I was there. I had wanted to go to the Wall for years but never could. My husband went there January 86 while station at Aberdeen Maryland. He brought me back an etching that I cherish. But I was able to do my own etching, feel his name, run my fingers through each letter. It was awesome. My daddy's name was Michael Dwayne Walker, he served Aug 65-May 67, I believe he went to the 129th August of 66 or January of 67, not sure. I have received daddy's file from the government, even some of his medals, I have finally received. Although I completely believe that he should have received the purple heart, but the government said that he wasn't on any type of mission. The crew was on a mission to pick up some of the 101st, when someone-I don't know if it was us or Vietnam- Ran over as the helo was lifting off and grabbed the skid which caused the helo to tilt, hitting trees, causing the crash. Some places say nine people were aboard the helo, some say eight, The cause of the crash wasn't in daddy's file, I received that information from someone else-but I know that is what happened, I know that daddy burned, I know that the pilot was trapped in front and someone tried to get him out but couldn't, so he burned to death, the other pilot was burned badly, but escaped, he didn't remember what happened because he had blacked out. VIETNAM was 30+ years ago, why don't they let the families know what truely happened and give out the medals that belong to the soldiers, whether they are dead or alive, instead of handing purple hearts to the soldiers in Iraq for every little thing. THe Purple Heart doesn't even mean what it used to. All of you who served in Vietnam done a tremendous job, you served our country and made freedom stand for a while longer, the Soldiers who are serving in Iraq are wonderful, they are making a stand for Iraqs freedom and ours. Thank you.
Rhonda
USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 11:20:25 (MDT)
No politics please.
Mark
USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 10:48:27 (MDT)
DONNY PURVIS, I agree about the Hero thing also. All of had a job to do. You could take any one of us on a given day and probably find something to give a medal about or over look something else. I got a DFC, which I received about two years after the fact for flying into an area where my crew chief was killed. I flew in because I was afraid I would be the only one who did not do so. Turned out, I was the only one who went in. My crew chief David Stamper, I was told got a SILVER STAR for continuing to return fire after being hit twice before the final fatal shot. I went home, did not expect anything or think that I did anything special to deserve it, but I got it. I could not see how I got something like that and lived and David died and his widow gets a MEDAl that was not that much higher instead of a husband. My roommate WO Claude Strother and Lt. Tom Shaw died supplying the An Khe Pass and received nothing special. Why? Our brothers who gave it all are the heros and the ones who received terrible wounds and continue to lay down fire or continue there mission.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
Bradford, Pa USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 06:37:41 (MDT)
Fred Alvis....You`re right about the "hero" thing...it`s over the top now.......But I thought we had all agreed to keep politics off this board....Brother Purvis!!! If you`re bringing up the issue of Kerry and liberals......please spell name right. In case you`ve been in a cave in the mountains N.C., The Bu$h Crime Mob has screwed friggin Iraq up from jump street, now the place is a breeding ground for "terrist".
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 05:39:44 (MDT)
alvis Cannot agree with you more, the word hero is passed around like a drink. I hear sports figures refered to as heros and others. One thing that made me so mad just befor i retired out of the army was how awards were passed out like rations. Our unit would deploy for a 10 day exercise and afterwards everyone would be put in for some type of award. when the guard unit for south carolina refused to go on their mission because their vehicals did not have armor, i thought to myself what would our unit done to a crew who refused to fly in to a hot lz because our hueys did not have armor, we would have been court martialed. For years if felt guilty becuase i was awarded the bronze star for a rescue mission (into cambodia in 1970 with the 92nd ahc), because if felt that it was our duty to go in to recover a downed crew. I also felt guilty that i survied the lz not once but twice, and then to be awarded for doing wath I felt was just my duty made me fell that the award was degraded. So lets save the word hero for the true heros, those such as the fire fighters and police officers that gave their lives to save others on 9-11, others that put their lives on the line each day, and our men and women in the military that have given their lives in defense of their country, while the liberals of this country give comfort to the terrorist that want to destory our way of life. while condemming the troops that protect their wirghts. If Keary and the other left wingers have their way we will be praying to allah.
donnie purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
linwood, nc USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 04:01:49 (MDT)
HI flight they do hero a lot the real hero are the one that gave there life so we can be able to live the way we want & thank them for whatthey don & GOD has them all. THANK GOD FOR all his BLESSINGS us how came home.
Arthur E Foster <tigerwagon@msn.com>
Hogansville, GA. USA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 at 03:54:49 (MDT)
small plane crashed about a mile from here today.dead pilot,all others lived.They made him out to be a hero,little do they know.hero is passed around today,its a popular word.
alvis
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 22:07:44 (MDT)
Rhonda,thank you for that posting.All else was blocked out as i read what you wrote.I have been to the wall a number of times.Every time,I wondered who else had searched for that name,had his family read it, his kids? i would love to meet his kid,to tell him/her of their father,to tell them that their father thought of them,spoke of them daily,kept their picture by their bed,its the last thing they saw at night,how proud they were when they spoke of returnibg to the world and holding their child once more.May God bless you and your children,your father is waiting on the pad,for you,cleared for lift off.
alvis
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 21:19:51 (MDT)
AMEN Lenny....thanks
Mark
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 19:27:42 (MDT)
Evenin' All you Bite&Strikerz. Apology for no com in long time..been busy. I just want to first say a big "WELCOME HOME" to our Brother Larry Ruff. Tripper told me the great news..This is a Safe Place Larry. E -mail me if you want to. Remember 1stSgt.rewarding us x-tra duty for missing a morning formation on one of our rare downdays?..Wasn't he fragged or somethin? (ooopps) I'm sending both of my sons back to their respective colleges this week,so it's "empty-nest"/party for mom&^me time (I think). Don't want to say anything too political,or religous on here...just God Bless America,Our Service People, and especially all that tread here,and their Loved ones. A healing prayer also for those in need. P.T.L. Clear, Lenny!
Lenny <rtrwingnut@yahoo.com>
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 19:19:31 (MDT)
RHONDA, What was your fathers name, and when was he with the 129th?
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 12:50:36 (MDT)
Hello Everyone. I made it to the wall on August 11. What a day. The sky was cloudy with the sun peeking out. I had carried my flag with a small note attached, a keychain with a breast cancer angel, (my mom had cancer), a florida tag that says Rhonda, and a small card that read MICHAEL, I had carried this all day with me through the holocost museum, subway, bus, and around all the stuff that is in the park. I know that daddy was there he drew me to his name in a matter of second. I had never been there. I knew where his name was located, but I didn't need that information, he was there waiting for me. What an awesome feeling to touch that wall and the feelings that you begin to feel. I went to Washington D.C. with out youth group from church. My daughter and son was there with me. My son asked so many questions, he couldn't understand that I had a daddy that was killed in Vietnam, the Wall, why so many were killed. I explained things to him with the info that I know. My son will be 16 in October he knows that we have a flag that belonged to my daddy, a pair of rollerskates, and some pictures, but he just didn't put it all togethter until that day. As I was taking some pictures a man came by and read the card that hang on the flag that I stuck in the crack. I wondered as he read it if he knew who daddy was. A little while later I was standing a the statue and flag and looking over at the Wall was a little boy, probably around 6 or so with his mom, they were finding daddy's name on the wall and reading the card. The little boy smiled as he found daddy's name and the mom took his picture. I hope that little boy knows how special that person was and learns about the Vietnam War. What a wonderful day I got to have the day after daddy's birthday. ~Rhonda
Rhonda <jordanrh1941@aol.com>
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 11:22:38 (MDT)
HI me again it 35 years & 2 weeks I left nam & 35 years with the same wife I have ben one lucky man there few things not the same my chest drop but got more lead in it bad eye leg hearing hair but still got a lot of good BROTHERS out there Art
Arthur & Glenda Foster <tigerwagon@msn.com>
Hogansville, GA. USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 10:42:49 (MDT)
ALEX, Good luck with the surgery. Bong Son Was the place I was trying to think of at the major bridge between Crystal and English. SF worked out of the MACV compound there, and the 129th probably had almost a daily mission with them.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
Bradford, Pa USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 10:39:09 (MDT)
Hi flight do some of the flight recall CHRIS NOEL when she was over there. Art
Arthur E Foster <tigerwagon@msn.com>
Hogansville, GA. USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 10:26:14 (MDT)
Hi Alex good luck GOD on your side & keep him in your hart soul & if I lived near you I would move it for you & you be back on your feet befor you know it & what was the best ttwo things in c you coud eat a lot of grunts shoud know this p p Art
Arthur & Glenda Foster <tigerwagon@msn.com>
Hogansville, GA. USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 10:04:56 (MDT)
Alex, best of luck buddy.
alvis
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 07:03:54 (MDT)
Lou and alex...we will miss both of you and keep you in our prayers. Fred....it was war.. Love-Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 06:48:17 (MDT)
Dan, I wrote Cpt. Parker, and told him we used to cover insertion/extractions of Mike 75th Rangers out of Bong Son. I know there were Rangers at Tuy Hoa. Lima 75? I have no doubt that 129 slicks had to be involved. As for individual missions??? They kinda run together.....too many years, I guess
Kim
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 06:46:30 (MDT)
Flight: Well this will be my last post for a while. Tomorrow I will have the knee surgery. Will be laid up for 4 to 6 weeks. Never got a chnce to move my computer down stairs. So, the wife ( LIZ ) will be checking the log for me at times. Take Care and everyone have a safe Labor Day and at Kokomo. Always A Brother!!
Alex
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 06:27:16 (MDT)
ALVIS, I am not sure that was me west of Cam Ranh Bay. MATT PARKER, I am sure that most 129th pilots and crews have flown multiple SF missions. I can't remember some of the individual places or units, but units were based out of the town next to a major bridge between LZ Crystal and English, up the river (?) kind of NW of Tiger Div 3rd Batt., west of Tuy Hoa and at North Tuy Hoa (MACV), and in Kontum area.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
Bradford, Pa USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 06:20:37 (MDT)
damn, what an asshole i am.
alvis
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 05:36:31 (MDT)
Dan,you asking for "war stories"? The good captian must realize that we tell those amoung ourselves usually,if and when we do.This isnt any sort of slight,but remember,for many years if we open that subject in public,we were called baby killers and murders.Not only that,but must guys just arnt comfy doing so to folks that werent there,or have kept it penned up inside.That being said,I know this is a public foreum,but this site is almost like sitting around the camp fire with old friends and ship mates.Soo.maybe others feel the same as i do.The smoke made little puffs that were ripped by the wind as brass tumbled down towards the earth.Angry red lines ,made of tracers,tore into their targets.The school childern and grandmothers dropped like flies,blood and guts every where.WE laughed with glee as we fired on,and cut down,the screaming cripples trying to escape on their crutches.Hmmm.perhaps this should be done back channel.
alvis
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 05:33:15 (MDT)
didnt mess with those bad boys very often.Dennis,where you on the flight mission with me when we landed at Cam Ron Bay and picked up a team of "sogs" or "lurps"? We took them straight inland,just us,a single ship mission? I hated that mission.I felt like I was abandoning those guys.It gave me the shudders to think about walking back thru all that jungle and i admired the balls it took to do that.I would be to chicken,just let me stay on board my safe little helicopter.
alvis
USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 at 05:15:53 (MDT)
Gentlemen, This is From Capt. Matt Parker. It is a call to action for us. If you have any information, post it here on the 129th site. I will make sure it goes to his e-mail address to back up our communication. At the current time, we are in a little bit of a stall. In order for this to carry forward, and I want it to, we need some more historical information concerning Special Operations support. If there was any habitual relationship with any of the SF Groups or other Spec Ops units, that would really further our cause. I've been able to glean some information about 5th group support and ROK support, but some more specifics about those and some more information of other units would definitely help out. Please provide what you can. Thanks again for your time. I'll be in touch with any further developments. Matt Parker
Dan Hertlein
Lake Tapps, WA USA - Sunday, August 27, 2006 at 20:59:26 (MDT)
Whew!!!!!!....what a weekend with the Herd...............you can go to this address < http://the-257.spaces.live.com > and click on the photos section and click of the "BIG AND RICH 173RD WEEKEND and see some photos of it all............take care this week........ove to all............always a brother..........
Mark
USA - Sunday, August 27, 2006 at 20:33:19 (MDT)
JW....... you can`t hover or turn or control the speed, there`s no collective stick control and no cyclic control or foot pedals......In short, it is the cyclic and collective pitch which gives the helicopter its unique ability to fly forward, backwards, sideways, rise and descend vertically and hover motionless in the air.
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Sunday, August 27, 2006 at 07:29:11 (MDT)
Hi flight, try to fly a helicopter.The rest of the day will be useless to the company.. Read directions first before you start....must hold left Clicker down to go up...release to go down...ADDICTIVE! Think you can fly a helicopter? Click on the link below and give it a whirl! http://www.hurtwood.demon.co.uk/Fun/copter.swf
J.W. Wilson
Kinston, N.C. USA - Saturday, August 26, 2006 at 20:23:47 (MDT)
Roger on that Kim..........that line was always good for a fight in the bar while off the base. :-))))...........swabs...........
Mark
USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 21:53:56 (MDT)
Fred, we got Studebaker John and the hawks playing in town, across the river from the mill tomorrow night.....Mark, my V.P. of our local is a jar head, 78-82. He's always going head to head with the president of the Specialty group of our papermills, who is a retired navy captain. Little digs like, if a commander is the equivilent of a marine lance corporal, what's the equivilent of a captain? One day they were going at it, and Mike was really getting under the captains skin. He ( captain) finally thought he was going to get the last word, and shut Mike up, when he said " you do know, don't you, that the Marines are a Department of the navy, right?" Mikes response was priceless. His answer? "yeah, the MEN'S DEPARTMENT"!!! End of meeting :>))
Kim
USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 20:44:21 (MDT)
Evenin' Flight.........Just finished a wonderful supper with the grandson and grand daughter. Played a lil' and now gonna head out to the 173rd compound and set around the camp fire and listen to war stories. Told them that the 129th worked with the Herd at LZ English and Crystal. Also that their AHC the "CASPERS" where at Lane for a short period at one time........Them herd boys like to tease me and tell me that I am the cute lil' Marine that always takes care of them when there are here. Dropped off 2 loads of fire wood off to them today and told them if they needed anything else to just call the Marines;-))))..............Talk to ya all later. Have a good one...........wanna be back in time to see how Coldwater did in their opener tonight with Kenton.........Love to all...............always a brother..........
Mark
USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 18:38:52 (MDT)
Mark......Big and Rich...Best thing that has happen to "country music" in years......I have to admit, I REALLY like them alot.......I`m a BIG Blues and Jazz buff, but they cook...Well I really do like Brooks and Dunn a awful lot....They remind me of "old Eagles" music.........And late at night, my "guilty pleasure" is listening to Willie Nelson and Ray Price "San Antonio Rose"......CD.....Last Xmas my sister-in-law bought me "Comin' To Your City" CD.....I swear I thought it was a joke gift.....On the way back home to NJ, I told my wife,"Dig out that country cd for me, I wanna listen to that "shit-kickin" music".......... Mark....Big and Rich knocked me out....I kept hittin "track 13"...."8th of November".....could not believe what I was hearing......I`m a lyrics person.....5 or 6 times I had to hear it......
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 14:02:40 (MDT)
Rick, her name was Kathy and I would guess she's heading it up. Can you back channel the name of the Vet from Milwaukee to me...Joe and I will make sure he sees the "right" counselor at the Vets Center. Alex, I'm so sorry to hear your experience was not good with them...they're usually very good....but like everything else there's always a few bad apples so it helps to talk to guys who have been there, just like Rick said, you gotta talk to one another. GB to all-----with a hug, Gently.
Gently
USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 13:24:32 (MDT)
DAVID POWERS, not email yet. Try this one, which I use for my office. drfaucher@pennswoods.net Good luck on the bow hunting. I can't wait for season in Pa. Love Archery and spring turkey.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@Hotmail.com>
USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 13:14:45 (MDT)
dont know if all of you heard....the French Gov. dug up the bodies of their fallen in Mang Yang pass (sometime in the late 80s) and took them back to France,interned them with full honors.(as they deserved)
alvis
USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 13:08:57 (MDT)
Alex Buddy, I will say a prayer for you to find the papper work on Roger. Now dayes I loose more stuff but stop and say a prayer to our Father in heaven to help me to find what Im looking for and most of the time he helps find it pretty quick and some times he lets me go for days depending on if I realey need it now or not, but he always comes through. The Lord is our Co-Pilot and our best frend, we must always rely on him and our family members and the 129 brothers. It would be great to see what I said and find Rogers Mom and family members. I have to work to day because we are short handed, I have to find your number so we can talk about this OK. You are a great Brother like all the rest of the 129 gang. Joe BullDog 745 Out.
jOE 745
USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 09:26:52 (MDT)
Good morning, Flight! I didn't know Chris Sitton, but appreciate the condolences on behalf of his family and the community. Fred Skaggs, sorry I missed your call... it HAS been a while. I'll be bow hunting this weekend, so will be out of pocket. Maybe Tuesday or Thursday I'll be around. Please e-mail your numbers so I can update. Dennis Faucher, have you received either of my "back channel" e-mails? Fred Alvis, did you "noddle" any big cats?
Dave Powers
USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 07:20:47 (MDT)
Morning Flight...........God loves all of us.............the 173rd Herd boys are in this AO this weekend. Some of you who would come to the Christmas party at the Pop-A-Top recall these guys. They always contact me to coordinate stuff like fire wood, water and transportation for their camp out here at the airport. Sat around the camp fire last night listening to 173rd war stories. Just like reading the FLIGHT LOG BOOK here. Will be attending the "Big & Rich " concert at the Allen Co. fair this Saturday with them and will go on stage with the Herd color guard as they sing "The 8th of November". That song is about a 173rd guy from Lima Ohio ( Niles Harris ) who was one of the few that walked away from operation Hump back in 66 I think it was............anyways. Not a second goes by during the day that one of you does not cross my mind and I whisper a prayer. take care of yourselves.............I love you guys.................always a brother. Speaking of brothers, you all are the voice of mine!..........THANKS!!!!!!
Mark
USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 06:56:08 (MDT)
Joe: I got a copy of the sign statement that you did when you excorted Roger's body back to California. Also, alot of other information about the crash . I forget what I did with alot of the paper work. I know it took me quite sometime to get the infomation from the Army. I'm trying to get with his nephew to see what he has as far as film and slides. Glenn Pearmain met with Rogers niece north of Salt lake city I think. Glenn lives in WY. now. Gently good to see you post. Hope you and Joe had a wonderful and exciting vacation Huh!! Rick good to see you post. Good luck at the VA. Found out the Vet Center counselor didn't do any paper work , while I was there attending meeting. Thats what shot me down on my ptsd claim. Was Ticked off when I found this out. But, Still go to the VA for counseling. Well good to see everyone posting . Ray and Barry was good talking to you both. Always A Brother!!
Alex
USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 06:18:06 (MDT)
If anybody wants to talk I am usally free my # is 623 388 2628. I am going to the VA today for nerve damage testing. I get together with a group from a around here and we do things together such as lunch and go fishing and others things. One of our brothers from around here his son's buddy got back from Iraq an was calling him tlaking suicide so my buddy called the vet center call this kid who is from milwakee and Judith's friend at our vet center contacted the vet conseulor there and got him in to cstat. I thinkhge is doing better. Judith I can't remember your friends name here in Phoenix. We need to comunicate as much as possible to help out each other the VA isn't going to do it. The Vet centers are agood place to go an meet other brothers and sisters. Be careful out there. Bulldog 431
Rick England
USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 05:24:50 (MDT)
HI JOE to call me I have a new number 706 812 8005 will be glad to talk to you. I told you I dont get much sleep & tell Kristy one of the best just like Glenda I left nam in 16 aug 71 we got married aug 28 71 the coffey will be dun by 530 am the grand son I call him SCOOTER well you take care your Brother ART & WELLCOME HOME .
Arthur & Glenda Foster <tigerwagon@msn.com>
Hogansville, GA. USA - Friday, August 25, 2006 at 02:12:18 (MDT)
Hi Art, I just read your note to me and was glad to hear from you, I hope that I did not say any thing to bring back old trash I just had a bad day. Im glad that you took the time to let me know that Im not alone, My wife Kristy has been a great suport to me, I went through two other wives they did not under stand what we went through. If you dont mind I would like to give you a call this week end, My son Bill lives in Georga I think the town is Brazelton I dont know where that is from you, I will get there some time, they are expecting a Baby girl in Oct. This will be number 14 grandkids, boy I dont know how im going to keep up with them, I think they are going to brake the bank , maby not because im already broke but HAPPY. HAVE A GOOD NIGHT AND TAKE CARE 745 OUT.
Joe BullDog 745
USA - Thursday, August 24, 2006 at 20:45:08 (MDT)
HI Booldoog 745 I got ptsd I let you if the best to go in the va. & stay as long as you can I was in one time for 6 months it was hell to stay that long & make all appt. I some time dont get but 2or3 hr.sleep at night an play games on my pc if not reading flight log. I still have some bad time from the end of nov to jan I was a cook then I was put out as a grunt 1st div.oct 68 mad a frend & dec 13 he step on a boobie trap it was a 105 round & I know you live with things like that & you will to GOD take you with him & he will take it from your soul& will be at peace with your soul. Joe get a note book & when you have a bad day or night put it in it time & what it was & tell your doc at the va. what you are doing it will help you & go back in time try to think when it happen. This is hard for me to tell you but I tried to kill my self about 6 or 7 time my wife help me a lot she know I had a problem in 72or73 so let every one help you as much as you want dont be scared to tell them to stop they will know so take care YOUR BROTHER ART
Arthur E Foster <tigerwagon@msn.com>
Hogansville, GA. USA - Thursday, August 24, 2006 at 20:05:38 (MDT)
Alex, Did I tell you that Roger and I went to Fort Carson after we left the 129th. we were there about 7 month when I found out that he was in a Chopper crash, I took him back to California to his Mother in Oakland, and that is where he is Burried. One of these days I have to go back and viset him, it has been a long time. Roger did build that M2 for me he was good with his hands. You did know that he had some toys that he sent home befor he left Nam, didnt you??? I wish I had his touch. got to do the lawn Catch you guys later. Bulldog 745
Joe 745
USA - Thursday, August 24, 2006 at 16:06:40 (MDT)
Geez.....things happen fast at this site! First...to my sweet cakes Fred, Happy Birthday. To Pete R, welcome back and I hope we see you at Kokomo! And for those of you joining us in Kokomo...don't forget to bring your own drinks and some good food to share(except Gail, of course). I don't play an instrument but I do have that red boa I've worn before, but I won't waer it for any accordian music..geez. I may have some 129th patches from Dan to take to Kokomo, so let me know if you need one. Mine is faded and needs to be replaced big time so he's sending me a new one...I asked for several:>))) Lou, why are you going to be in the hospital for 2 months?! Ray...love the photos! Keep it up my friend..keep it up. Lastly, to our new friends and brothers...God bless and welcome home. Always here-Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, August 24, 2006 at 14:26:38 (MDT)
Joe : Found a disc that Roger Steele's nephew sent me. And it show's Roger with the M-2 carbine that he sawed down. I didn't know that he had a bunch of 8mm film that he had taken. Brought back alot of memories.
Alex
USA - Thursday, August 24, 2006 at 08:47:21 (MDT)
Hay Flight Yester day I had to go to my MD-Shrink to see how I was doing with my Meds they are for my "PTSD" She took one look at ne and asked how I was dooing I said ok I guess im fine, she said we are taking some meds away and trying some thing else I see you are shakeing and twitching, it may be the Meds I gave you maybe not she told me to get down to the VA reagional office and get a application, and put in for the PYSD. Some of us are in denial or the goverment is just getting around to teling us that we went through HELL, Alot they know Huh??????? I dont think that there is one of us that came home not wounded, no purple hearts, no thanks, just too bad. I hope that you guys dont think that Im ticked off after 40 years of not gettndg help, this lady that im seeing has it all togeather thank goodness. I hopeand pray that the VA where you are at has good care and good people there. Now about the dirt bag that had the rank T-shirt.... You are a better man then me, because I wood have decked him and told my boss to. Meaa with me, But not my Family frends or our Flag caus you do not know who you are messing with be cause we served this Country with our Blood. Do you think that we can put in a pot with enouf money to send them on a one way ticket to Iraq? or Afaganistan or north Korea. Or some 3rd wourld country. Im not mad just sick of what we have to put up with. Have a great week end and bless all of you, Joe BullDog 745
Joe BoolDoog 745
USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 20:55:02 (MDT)
At work yesterday,a young tattoed fellow,with his tattoed lady friend,were shopping.As i walked by them, I noticed his T shirt,well,the writting on the back."Why isnt it called terrorism when America does it?"it said. Thinking perhaps I had read something out of context as I walked by,I thought about it.On the way back to my work area,I again passed said young man and his fat girlfriend.Reading the front of his tattered,faded ,red T shirt, it said " Anti Flag". Hmmm,I thought,I been down this road before,but it was 34 years ago.True,we have freedom of speech,I am just glad I didnt have to wait on him.I wouldnt have.He surly wouldnt have liked my freedom of speech and I most likely would have ended up fired and in jail.My boss just kept telling me its his right.I fully agree.But I still didnt care for it.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 19:02:51 (MDT)
Dennis.....I`m just a "sports freak".....that`s all. I get alot of college football and basketball recruiting magazines.....
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 17:00:31 (MDT)
Didn't our own Joe Johnson go back to Nam, and tried to get into the old Lane AHP? I think the officials there restricted his movements and picture taking too. Art Foster, if you go to Lane you may not get to take pictures...
Dave Powers
USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 16:53:51 (MDT)
245th Trans, V Corps........That`s who I was with in Germany....Finthen Army Airfield...just outside Mainz....We had a apartment down road in Wackernheim. My wife and I went to Finthen in 2000....FAA was closed, and then main hanger was a recording studio, Wackernheim had been a Medical Post...all Dentist and Doctors and Medics.....The post is still there, but it was very strange....The MP told us we counldn`t take pictures of anything on the post.
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 16:47:22 (MDT)
Dennis, work is dave@buckhorngeo.com and home is powers@montrose.net .
Dave Powers
USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 16:03:45 (MDT)
FRED SKAGGS, Thats sounds like the right Garrett McEwen. How did you know about him. Do you live in the Punxsy area? If so, will be there Sept 15. During our game at home against St. Marys Pa he blocked a field goal and ran in back for a TD. The St. Marys boys not only could not catch him, but he accelerated away from them the entire way to the end zone..not them slowing down, Him just flat pulling away. Anyway will be at the Browns Stadium this Sat. evening 8/26. DAVE POWER, I got a message back on my email that the addresses were not deliverable. Please post them again. MARK..Thanks for the heads up on the history of the finger or bird..who new there was so much history to a gesture that says it all. ALEX, again, good luck on the up coming surgery...mine went smooth.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
Bradford, Pa USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 15:28:44 (MDT)
Hi flight, been away for awhile, and going into hospital next week for about 2months so won't be on line for awhile. Seen the post by larry ruff, larry if you remember we were in the 245th trans co after nam. Welcome home, hope to hear from you soon
Lou Rags
Dover, De USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 13:59:38 (MDT)
Dave, my condolences on your town's loss. It's ironic, we just buried Andy Small, of Wiscasset, who was killed over there on 8/11 while treating his squad leader, who was also killed............Mark, no offense taken. According to military historians, the biggest problem at Agincourt was "mud". The armored French troops lost mobility, which kept them in the kill zone, unable to close with the English.....Art, according to History channel, what kept this country from invading North Vietnam was a fear of the Sino Soviet pact. I don't think any U.S. government has listened to the French since the Mexican civil war :>)........Been listening to all the 'end of times' talk on tv. A nuclear Iran, blah blah blah. what're the odds that Israel will take out their facility within 2 years? Yeah Fred, where have all the flowers gone?
Kim
USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 11:13:34 (MDT)
Goodmorning Flight: Alot of como here. Well home Larry Ruff. We are glad that you have posted. The Atlanta reunion was one of the best. Especially with the huey rides. The first reunion is the hardest, because you don't what to expect. But, I think eveyone will agree. There is some healing there. The VHCMA are responsile for putting me in touch with Mark. Mark and I had similiar goals. And that was finding as many 129th Brothers. Over the years that has come to pass. Mark was able meet 129th Brothers whom served with Larry Jackson. And alot of have found and reunited with 129th Brothers we served with. We all still have our time in Vietnam living in our memories. The feeling of guilt of why I came home and our Kia Brothers didn't. And we are responsible for keeping there memory alive. I think as we get older. We are starting to try and find the Brothers we served with in Nam. To Welcome them Home and to share our times spent together and to let the pain we care in our memories out to Brothers whom understand. Charoltte was a good example. We are the Bite and Strike of the 129th. And I am proud to served with many of you. And to meet many of you whom served after me. We are the 129th family here. Always A Brother!!
Alex
Collierville , TN USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 08:28:10 (MDT)
LARRY - Welcome home, Brother!!! If my videos helped in a small way to bring you here, then it was well worth the time!!! So, dust off that P38, open a can of lima beans and ham, and sit for a while!!! lol Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 08:04:26 (MDT)
Smitty, good to see your post... did you ever get your scooter fixed?
Dave Powers
USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 07:56:33 (MDT)
yep that's the one ,just didn't see it not only is my menory going but i guess my eye sight as well.sorry mark.i guess to much stress in my life right now.this most likely my last post on wed site for a while. will be cancelling aol an home phonebut will keep my cell phone #863-370-0633. if you will mark post that # in the contact list.if its not posted already. thanks wink3/69--10/70
wink
lake wales, fl USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 07:50:03 (MDT)
Dave, i am very sorry to hear that. It seems a little more intense when it hits close to home. His Family have my prayers. Hope you & yours are doing OK>>>Smitty
jim westwang 71-72
Sheridan, wy USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 07:38:52 (MDT)
Kim ...I was working in a house today, and as I walk in the house, the kids were playing with "toy soldiers".....Made me think of a time when I did the same thing at their age. As I worked installing a tile backsplash in a the kitchen, the kids came in for lunch. While eating....One little guy ask,"Mom, what war will we fight next"?......I had to think about that.....This kid has never known a time in his life, we haven`t been at war. Made me think of Orwell’s book, "1984" " The enemy may regularly change but the state is always at war. And there seems to be no end".
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 20:59:21 (MDT)
Kim, I knew I shouldn't of "Copied and Pasted" that. ;-)....I was stating any political opinion. I just like the part about the middle finger. Sincere apologies to any french related people.........dang it!!!!!!!........that will teach me........
Mark
USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 20:48:18 (MDT)
Mark, Mark, Mark....just because the French had it right on Iraq, there's no need to be bitter.....ironic, isn't it? a couple of the first casualties in Afganistan were chopper jocks who had French surnames.
Kim
USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 19:42:52 (MDT)
Hi Flight you got that wright the U.S. is got them FROGS out of trouble They screw up nam that for shore then we went in & we would have wipe the north but if they had not told us you cant do that or this & if they don it like ww11 we would ben on top to & not looked at us like some had dun. I AM PROUDE TO BE CALLED A NAM VET. I was thinking of going back to nam to are old ao I like to go to the nco club & get a cold one & a EGG & bakin cheese burger they were good& pickel eggs the ac would not like the next day them eggs & beer were hell on them I know CRASH would get a little T . take care Art
Arthur E Foster <tigerwagon@msn.com>
Hogansville, GA. USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 19:39:32 (MDT)
FYI....................The History Of The Middle Finger Well, now......here's something I never knew before, and now that I know it, I feel compelled to send it on to my more intelligent friends in the hope that they, too, will feel edified. Isn't history more fun when you know something about it?############# Before the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, the French, anticipating victory over the English, proposed to cut off the middle finger of all captured English soldiers. Without the middle finger it would be impossible to draw the renowned English long bow and therefore they would be incapable of fighting in the future. This famous English longbow was made of the native English Yew tree, and the act of drawing the longbow was known as "plucking the yew" (or "pluck yew"). #################### Much to the bewilderment of the French, the English won a major upset and began mocking the French by waving their middle fingers at the defeated French, saying, See, we can still pluck yew! ########################## Since 'pluck yew' is rather difficult to say, the difficult consonant cluster at the beginning has gradually changed to a labiodentals fricative F', and thus the words often used in conjunction with the one-finger-salute! #################### It is also because of the pheasant feathers on the arrows used with the longbow that the symbolic gesture is known as "giving the bird." #################### IT IS STILL AN APPROPRIATE SALUTE TO THE FRENCH TODAY!
Mark
USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 18:45:24 (MDT)
Fred S. .....as is evident by the daily commo in here. Let the 129th Freedom Bell ring........speaking of "UN"ing things...........It dawned me the other night as Dee and I had just finished watching a movie we rented, I got up after it was over, walked over to the TV, and realized that the art of "REWIND" is fading from our lifes.
Mark
USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 18:39:27 (MDT)
Mark....Nam is in all our DNA.....Just can`t "unring" the bell...
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 18:12:16 (MDT)
I knew it Larry. Glad to have you have you here brother. As far as knowing where to find that photo you and Manny, well, I have studied the photos of the 129th so intensely that I knew that I had seen your face before and I knew exactly where. I recall that I called Manny from the reunion that day but to the best of my recollection he did not recall you. Bad case of the CRS's. ;-)))...I have often thought about you Larry and that day we met in Atlanta. I was afraid that something might of happened there that turned you off about the 129th. But know now that all of you guys are hesitant at first. I recall Fred Alvis coming to his first reunion. I think it was Louisville He walked in the 129th room, turned around and walked out and drove back to Indy. Right Fred? Was there a total of maybe 44 seconds. Now we cant' shut him up;-)))).he,he,he,he!!!!!I saw where he said he went cat fishin'. Maybe a catfish got his tongue.;-))).he is kinda quite lately................always a brother............BTW Larry, Thanks for your kind words but it is all of you guys that make this place the Healing Place that it is.Hummmmmmmmmmmmmm........A Healing Place................I like the ring of that.......
Mark
USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 17:27:58 (MDT)
Dennis F.....Is this your son`s friend.......Garrett McEwen - Bradford..... Date of performance: 09/16/2005 Opponent: Punxsutawney Nominated because: Garrett is a guard on offense. He scored 3 tds by lining up in the backfield as a FB. He also blocked 2 punts and had 6 tackles (2 for a loss) in only 2 1/2 quarters of action......This kid sounds good...I`ll have to watch for him.
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 17:09:41 (MDT)
Welcome Home Larry......Do you remember the Labor Day Rockfest of 1971?....Also..was there another Manny in the 1st. Platoon....NYC guy also, but tall and thin.....Had a "Boonie" hat when he first came to the 129th.....He`s in the gallery also.....Anyway it`s good you are here now....Ray, my friend, that Browns game with the Ravens is in Cleveland....Old Browns fans got a "thing" for the Ravens and Art Modell....
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 17:03:51 (MDT)
Yes Mark, we did meet at the Atlanta Reunion.After introducing ourselves, you surprised me by handing me a photo of Manny Rivera and myself.I still don't know how you did that. I married that girl I took to the reunion about 10 months later. She has been the light in my life ever since....
Larry Ruff
Birmingham, Al USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 15:28:27 (MDT)
welcome home larry.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 14:56:43 (MDT)
Hey Wink, 5th one down in the STORIES section. You are talking about "DAD". Correct? Larry Ruff, did we meet at the reunion in Atlanta?.........I thought that we did? You and your wife were there?.....maybe not.........thought we did though.........always a brother....BTW Larry, THANK YOU and WELCOME HOME and Back to the 129th......God Bless you. I am so grateful that you are here!!!!!!!!!!!
mark
USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 12:58:11 (MDT)
Good morning flight....my name is Larry Ruff, I served in the 1st Flt Plt,Bulldog 173 as a doorgunner and crewchief, class of '70.I've been monitoring the fltlog regularly for about 6 months. It began when I was exploring the website and learned of Paul Nolon's death and read Jim Masencup's tribute to him. I had not been close to Paul but with the news of his death something inside me snapped. For weeks I could think of nothing else.Thoughts began to surface from deep within my unconscious. I realized that I have always felt and still feel, that I left a part of myself in Nam.That everything which has occurred after Nam has been a Dream. A brief flash in time of what might have been if I had survived my tour... After I recieved Bill Wolf's CDROM with the memorial video And a look back, I knew I had to reach out to someone who would understand what I was going through. So I called my good friend Matt Casey and now I'm reaching out to you. Mark, I would like to thank you for making this place of healing a reality. I will close by saying to each of you..Welcome Home. Larry
Larry Ruff <ruffruff@bellsouth.net>
Birmingham, Al USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 10:32:22 (MDT)
Lost a Montrose kid in Afghanistan on Saturday. Chris Sitton an Army medic with the 10th Mountain Division, 710th Medical Support Battalion, a 2003 graduate of Montrose High School, was killed by a roadside bomb in the Kunar Province. Dennis, still looking for your e-mail.
Dave Powers
USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 09:38:31 (MDT)
morning flight,hey mark, looked for my poem , not posted yet.oh well.nothing new. hope all is well with all. wink
wink
lake wales, fl - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 08:25:52 (MDT)
HI ALL HOW ARE YOU DOING ,FRED I SEE YOU ARE GOING TO MD IAM NOT FAR GROM BALIT, I LIVE 30 MILES NORTH OF IT UBOUT 15 OFF 95 NEAR BEL AIR IF YOU CAN CALL I AM ALWAYS HERE , LIKE TO MEET YOUA, IF YOU CAN'T THATS OK , JUST ASKING, ,I HOPE EVERYONE IS DOING WELL. MARK AND DE GALE & DEBBIE , KAL NICE TALKING TO ON MSN, WE NEED MOR TO GO THERE ,ITS NICE TO TALK, JIM KEEP GOING ON THE FLUTE I JUST GOT NEW NATIVE AMERICANS FLUTES BOKE IN BUT FOR 6 HOLE ONE.DID YOU KNOW THAT INDIX FINGER THE FRIST PART ON TOP IS THE SAME SIZE AS A NY ONE FROM THE AGE OF 14 ON UP. THATS HO THE N/A MEASUEADED THE DISTANCE OF THE HOLE BETWEEN THE FLUTES ITS JUST THE TOP PART OF THE INDEX FINGER I GUESS ,THE ONE NEXT TO THE THUMB ;-) JUST SOME NEEDLESS INFO,. I CAN'T WAIT TO GET MY NEW ONE . A MINOR I HAVE THE G NEXT WILL BE THE F I LIKED THE SOUND OF YOURS. RON PRAY HOW ARE YOU, AND CC I HAVEN HEARD FROM YOU HOW ARE YOU AND JAMIE DOING. ROB HOW ARE YOUM RICK HAVE YOU BEEN CAMPING. .I PLAY THE FLUTE AN CUT THE GRASS AND VAC THE HOUSE THATS IT, I CANT SLEEP, THE SHAKES KEEP ME UP, I SEE MY OWN DR NEXT TUE, WHEN DOSE GENTLY GET BACK. HOPE SHE HAD A GOOD TIME. BUT GOING THREW SECURY MUST AVE BEEN A PAIN WELL THATS ALL FOKES TAKE MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS L0VE YOU ALL, A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY.rob i try to call ok OH DOSE ANY ONE KNOW ID BUD RAINEY GOT A DVD I THINK HE LIKE ONE HE DID LAST YEAY JUST WONDERING
Ray <stilwating@AOL.CO,>
MD USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 08:15:34 (MDT)
Fred, I wish I had tickets for Ohio and Texas. I live in Pa now so that's out of the question for now...Besides I have enough high school ball to follow for now.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
Bradford, Pa USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 04:10:48 (MDT)
Mark...I`m going to the Sept.24th game with the B-more Ravens, it`s 4:00 PM game.....The Crest Tavern goes up in a bus on Sunday morning, bunch of old H.S friends.....But I`m leaving Jersey Thursday night and staying until Monday afternoon.....so I`ll be "in country" for a few days.....Dennis.....Have you got tickets for the Ohio State/ Texas game.....that will be a good game...GO Bucks.......Alex....Canton McKinley Bulldogs, Massillon Tigers....Big time HS football teams.....in the old days......They`ve built new schools now and broke up those school districts..... H.S. Football just don`t seem big here on the East coast.......Of course here in Jersey, with all the transplanted NYC`ers.......They think civilization ends at the Delaware Gap on the west, Philly to the south and Boston to North and you drop off the "edge of the world" at the "The Shore"........I keep telling them, "It`s friggin beach".....
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Monday, August 21, 2006 at 20:48:13 (MDT)
Alex, I will actually be going to the Browns Stadium this coming Saturday. A boy who is from Bradford just transferred to a 5A school in that area. He is my middle boys best friend. He was a big loss for our high school. I can't remember the school name, but they are playing in the Browns stadium at 5:30Pm and will be on national TV on ESPN 2. The boys name is Garrett McEwen, will be playing I believe fullback and possibly outside LB
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
Bradford, Pa USA - Monday, August 21, 2006 at 09:53:48 (MDT)
Alex, I have talked with George Stamper twice. I am going to email them an account of David's last two days. Will also plan on doing so on this site for 129th history. Alex, by the way I am a HORN fan. Have been since any awareness of sports, burnt orange blood and all that. Even have one UT degree. You guys may have the edge this year with our QB gone to the Titans. Should be a very good game, but it is in Austin this year, the last one sure was a nail biter.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
USA - Monday, August 21, 2006 at 09:47:14 (MDT)
Goodmorning Flight: Ohio Football!!! It's that time of the year again. Ohio State, Browns and the NE high school teams. Some ass kick'in games back in the 50' and 60's. Alot Pro's came out of NE Ohio region. Thoses were the days. Joe the French that comes to the reunions, isn't the one you are thinking of. Dennis, glad you got in touch with David Stamper's brother. Hopefully it will give him remaining family a little more info about David's time in Vietnam. Well, a week to go before knee surgery. Be glad to get it over. Take Care. Always A Brother!!
Alex
USA - Monday, August 21, 2006 at 08:25:11 (MDT)
Yup Fred, that's correct. The old school. We played Lima Shawnee also. I recall as a Freshmen The first string right halfback was injured for us so I got to suit up and play. Actually played on a Monday night because the game was snowed out on Friday. But at that time Shawnee had an All Ohio Player, I believe his name was Bob Brumby, played middle linebacker. First time I ran the ball this guy clobberd me and as he was still laying on top of me he looked in my face as said, " What do you think your doing"? I'm Bob Brumby, All Ohio< and you ain't going no where tonight. He was correct. They slaughtered us that night. Kinda makes me think the first string back for us was faking his injury so he wouldn't have to get clobbered like I did by Mr. Brumby. Hey fred, on that trip to Ohio to see the browns, maybe we can get together, When is tha
Mark
USA - Sunday, August 20, 2006 at 19:15:06 (MDT)
Mark.... You and I played in the "old school" Ohio sports...Back when there was just two divisions....Double A and Single A...... Now there are 5 divisions...I played basketball against Lima Shawnee and Toledo Scott non-league games.......Shawnee had a kid named Wordell Jackson( I don`t think you were related to him). Baseball I played against Dayton Roth and Xenia and Troy.....But those small rural schools have always been tuff, friggin guys played together since they were in grade school.......Alot of big-city schools didn`t want to play them small schools...mess around and get beat. 94 boys playing on Coldwater football team...whole male teenage population of Coldwater...LOL.
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Sunday, August 20, 2006 at 18:32:05 (MDT)
Matt Casey.......I just viewed the email about he Marines Farewell...............sure glad of got off Zoloft. I can cry again, and am proud of it...........I love you guys and you are the best of the best, but everytime I hear or read about a Marine that goes down, my eyes fill up and my heart is empty for a lost comrade of mine. OOOHRAAAA, Semper Fi.......always a brother...........
Mark
USA - Sunday, August 20, 2006 at 16:46:06 (MDT)
Yuppers Fred....have been reading about it in the local news papers. Lots of stink going on about it at the skuttlebutts. Is the talk of the AO. If it would of been one of Coldwater's boys I can tell you that they would of been off the team in a heart beat. Our coach, John reed, who is a friend of mine, would not of tolerated it. Speaking of Coldwater football, Dee and I stopped in at the scrimmage last Friday and they look to be headed for the title game again this year. Very strong in every possition. We have 94 boys on the team. We used to play Kenton back when I played ball for Coldwater in the 60's. Matter of fact we were in the same league at the time. The WBL ( Western Buckeye League. I scored 4 td's against them my junior year. Something me and Al Bundy have in common. 4 TD's in one game;-)))).........LARRY RUFF!!!!.......Matt and Fred, Larry attended one of the 129th gigs one year. I am pretty sure that it was the Atlanta one. I recognized him the second I saw him from some of the photos on the web site. He is in a lot of photos that Manny Rivera sent me that are up on the web site. Larry is the one with the dark rim, round lens glasses , correct?.........I told him about the web site but he has never checked in. Must be a reader though because there were no signs of him going to attend that reunion but BINGO, there he was...........always a brother.........
Mark
USA - Sunday, August 20, 2006 at 16:37:04 (MDT)
Mark....Have you heard about this?..........Judge: Boys can serve sentence after football season..... JoANNE VIVIANO Associated Press........ KENTON, Ohio - A judge decided two teenagers can complete their high school football seasons before they serve 60-day jail sentences for a car crash caused by a decoy deer placed in a country road. Two teens were injured. Gary McKinley, a retired Union County juvenile judge hearing the case in Hardin County Common Pleas Court, said he knows his decision will be criticized. "I shouldn't be doing this, but I'm going to. I see positive things about participating in football," he told Dailyn Campbell, a junior quarterback at Kenton High School. A court administrator said McKinley had no further comment Wednesday because of pending charges against other defendants in the case. Campbell, 16, and Jesse Howard, 17, were sentenced Tuesday to juvenile detention, to start after the season ends. Last November, teens stole the decoy from a man's home and created a base to help it stand upright because it had only two legs, Prosecutor Brad Bailey told the judge. They drove up and down the road watching as drivers swerved to avoid the decoy. Bailey said Howard didn't stop the prank. When Robert Roby Jr. of Kenton swerved to miss the decoy, he crashed his car into a pole and fence. His neck, collar bone, arm and leg were broken. His mother said he's facing his 11th surgery. She said he's not able to work or go to school and referred comments about the case to her lawyer. His passenger, Dustin Zachariah, has brain damage, Bailey said. "None of these guys will ever know what our sons have gone through," Mary Roby wrote in a statement to the court. "If they get nothing for what they've done, they'll do something worse later. They need more than a slap on the wrist." Howard's father, C.J., said he wants the ordeal to be over for his son. "Jesse has never ever been in trouble before. He doesn't drink, he doesn't do drugs, he doesn't go to parties, he doesn't go out very much," the father said. He said he punished his son by taking away his driver's license, keeping him at home and preventing him from playing sports, "for just going out and not stopping what happened." Kenton schools Superintendent Doug Roberts said Wednesday he supports the judge's decision, even though there has been conflict over the matter for months in the community of about 8,000 surrounded by flat fields of corn and other crops. "Being a small school and a small community, we look at these things as a small family, and when your family has problems, you try to help them, rather than turn your back on them," he said. Older children have taunted Jesse Howard's younger siblings over the crash, and others in town have come up to the family to criticize them, C.J. Howard said. Roberts said he doesn't think people would be as upset if the students played a sport other than football, which has a large following in the district. McKinley also placed the two teens on house arrest. They must pay fines and restitution, perform community service and write a 500-word essay titled "Why I should think before I act." The judge suspended two one-year juvenile prison sentences for each boy. In July, Campbell and Howard each pleaded no contest to two counts of vehicular vandalism and juvenile charges of delinquency by possession of criminal tools and misdemeanor theft. Trials are scheduled in the fall for three other defendants. Family and friends of the injured teens did not attend Howard's sentencing, leaving the courtroom after Campbell was sentenced. "They said they would not attend this hearing as their own way of showing protest to the previous ruling," Bailey told the judge. Zachariah now has the cognitive ability of a sixth grader, said his mother, Kathy Piper. When he applied for a job two weeks ago, he couldn't do the simple math on the application test, she said. The teens' medical bills have reached $700,000 and are expected to top $1 million, Bailey said. Campbell and Howard apologized during their sentencing hearings. "I think every day that I hurt someone, and that hurts me inside," said Howard, a defensive back who earned an honorable mention on the all-district team last fall. The superintendent said he doesn't foresee any problems at football games, which typically draw about 4,000 fans. He expects the season opener Aug. 25 against defending Division IV state champion Coldwater to attract a large crowd.
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Sunday, August 20, 2006 at 15:25:49 (MDT)
Matt Casey...that`s it, Larry Ruff....We ran into each other in Heidelberg,Germany at a 3 day Rockfest, Labor Day Week-end, 1971.......We had sit down by the Neckar River bank soaking our feet on a muggy Saturday afternoon...I looked over and he looked at me....we recognized each other. We jumped up and did the "old handshake" and sit down and shared stories and other things.....It was great......At the time I only had a few weeks left in the Army....."Do the name Ruby Begonia strike a familure note" .....Yes it does.....Matt you use to catch me with that phrase, I would be coming back from the "Dust-Off" in late evening and you would nail me went that.......Then we would go into our "Kingfish and Andy" routine.....Matt I should have remembered his last name, my uncle Tim Ruff owned Ruff Plumbing in Columbus, Ohio.......Uncle Tim`s son Tim Jr. still runs the business in Tavares, FL...........Man that makes my day.....I was sent to Germany with only 9 months left in service......That`s how I became so familiar with Amsterdam....I`d go there once a month, on payday weekend...They made me a "Rations Pic-Up driver".....for the mess hall. There was two of us, and we worked that "cooks schedule" every other week-end off from Friday noon until Monday noon.....I`d leave Mainz, Germany on a train for A-Dam at Friday 2:00PM and get to Central Station in A-Dam at 9:00PM........just in time for 420....I`d catch the late Sunday night train back to Mainz and get in about 5:00AM Monday morning......and be back to work at Noon Monday. Thanks Matt for clearing up that haze....If anything Larry`s got to remember the Rock fest.
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Sunday, August 20, 2006 at 07:08:05 (MDT)
Flight, I just had the wonderful pleasure of a conversation with a fellow crew chief. ….Just took 36 years to happen……Larry Ruff…. Yep,… that guy with the glasses in a lot of the pictures from our tour in 70.…Seems he was another one of the few of us that went to Germany right after our tour in Nam ( do the name Ruby Begonia strike a familure note there Mr. Viking ). It was a beautiful surprise that I will charious that conversation and look forward to many more…..So ….if you think of some on you haven’t talked with in years….DO …IT…..it opens a door to healing that doesn’t come around that often to us….Tails Clear Left…….Matt Casey ….By the way he was hoping to know who that guy is at the EM club….big blond guy having lots of fun in my photos..thanks again…a brother for always….Matt
Matt Casey
Hemet, CA USA - Saturday, August 19, 2006 at 21:34:22 (MDT)
Fred, Tuy Hoa North is abt 4.75 miles NNW of the old the Tuy Hoa AF base which is deterating badly. Phu Heip is abt 4.75 miles SSE of the old AF base. Tuy Hoa North on maps appears to have been just a local airfield a long time ago and I can'r even make it out on Google Earth pictures any more. They can all be seen on the Google Earth map. I also went to the maps at www.rjsmith.com, (I think that was the address), and thats how I located its lacation as you can't make it out (north) any more. As many times as I flew over the area, I didn't even know there was a "Tuy Hoa North" airfield. Google Earth is free for the download and fun to ues to look over place you want to check out. Take care...C Ya.. Kal 67/68...>>>
Kal Bergstrom 67/68
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Saturday, August 19, 2006 at 20:15:28 (MDT)
Fred, I realy dont know If Tuy Hoa South had a diferent name, all I know is that A river seperated north and south. But there was a Vil on the beach about one mile from our compound and that is wher A girl got shot crossing the wire, I think that she still has a sore butt. I will still deny that I did it. Have a great week end Flight Brothers for ever Joe 745.
Joe 745
USA - Saturday, August 19, 2006 at 19:28:15 (MDT)
>>> gone cat fishing <<<
alvis
USA - Saturday, August 19, 2006 at 16:36:34 (MDT)
Joe 745.....Is "Tuy Hoa south" what was called Phu Hiep at one time?
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 20:46:07 (MDT)
Good to see ya Pete Rhome.........I`m gonna be in Cleveland in the fall for a Browns game.......Gotta get my Browns fix.......I`d rather go to Cleveland, than East Rutherford or Long Island........I need a phone number, so look for a e-mail
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 20:43:04 (MDT)
Is there an one that was at Tuy Hoa south I think, when we had a welil put in our Co. aerea by the enginers? they brought over a big clam shell crain to dig it. Im not sure how much wiskie it cost us but it was the best water aroung and not only that we did not have to waight in line to getwater any more. But we did have some problems with some units be cause we did not let them have any, and some big wigs made a big stink about it. It never stops you do some thing and some one else wants to mess it up. I think we paid one case of good wiskey and know one wanted to pitch in, the only good friends we had there was the 101s they would give us almost any thing we needed. they were a great bunch. Hang in there guys some day we will get our just reward and it will be good..... BullGog 745. PS this happend early 66.
Joe 745
USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 19:55:10 (MDT)
Say flight Does any one rember how menny bottles of wiskey we had to pay for the best water in Tuy Hoa??? I do rember that it took about three or four nights to conpleat and then had to be tested befor we could use it. Then the hole Valley heard about it and we had to post a guard at well then after about a week or so we had to go up north, so when we left, the vil close by us started using it and so did the other units in the area. the water was better than what we got at the purifying station. besides that,we didnt have to wait in line to get it.
Joe BullDog 745 <joeandkristy@mstar.net>
USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 19:30:53 (MDT)
I was told quite a while back, that Tom Roy (Regent) commanded one of the special ops units. For some reason, I want to say it was the 140th. Was it the 160th?
Kim
USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 16:46:14 (MDT)
Animal, wasn't Dick Howe's call sign Rif, because of being a Warrant first? Like a joke on being busted out as a WO but good enough to be commissioned. I flew several times with him as a pp. Very good pilot, as I remember you were also! One time flying south out of the Lane airspace I was calling clear out of I think it was called the south pass towards Tuy Hoa. Anyway I got so tongue tided, tried to repeat a couple of times and just got worse, then I just swore on air. He laughed so hard, if he had not be belted in he would have fell out of the aircraft.DAVE POWERS, I am going to enter you email asap and send a note to both to see if we connect.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
Bradford, Pa USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 10:23:03 (MDT)
Good morning to all, it is very pleasing to see all the posting going on flt log. I would like for Cpt Parker to contact concerning the 160th. I never served with the 160th but have had a close contact since the very begining. The first commander I knew very well, crewed for him on occasion when he was the 101st Avn Bn commander. The 1Sgt of the little bird company was my roommate in Korea, in the 128th AHC. My job now as a flt simulator tech, we get some of the 160th guys here at HAAF, but most of their sim time is done on the MH60 at another site. Bill Wolfe I would like to have a copy of the reunion please. Oh the white water rafting trip was a blast, take care brothers,,,da stickman is outta here,,,jim
Jim "Stickman" Oliver <jsticks@g-net.net>
Pembroke , Ga USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 09:34:16 (MDT)
hello flight. just saying hi to all , Bill thanks again for the vidios,went to shrinh about the bad tremors all he did was up grade my med i still have dad dreams and shake .i go back around the 21 of aug still cant walk far. i dread going iam afraid if i cough some nurse will comming running over with a bottel of pills ans take for 30 days, just kidding almost all they want to do is to give you pills not find out why. oh well thats my problem. i been taking some nice pic of butterflies and cutting branches but so tired , but at least i am doing some thing So how are you doing i wish i could make it to Kokomo.but we see you all in at orlando rob it was got to see ya pos and pete to well you take care a brother always ray be safe, and have a grate time in Kokomo. Alvis love your jokes,alez you take care of that foot i call soon rod you take care i be calling oki come back more
Ray <stilwating#aol.com>
MD USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 09:08:07 (MDT)
Thanks for the kind words Alvis!!! If any one else still wants a copy of the CD, please send me your snail mail address to my email and I'll get it out to ya pronto!!! Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 08:43:02 (MDT)
for you new guys in the site..we have had a few things pop up over the past year.Phil Connley,a sucessful businessman in England,and now hobbest chopper pilot,bought a helicopter here,then shipped it to England.During his historical research,he found it was a 129th bird (from 1972).He was,and still is,searching for anyone that remembers,flew in,or piloted that bird.He contacted this site for that and also for historical pictures ect,in his quest for returning the bird to a "look likes" 129th ahc operationial bird.Several in here contacted Phil with advice and pictures.The bird is now restored ,and flying,in full 129th colors and condition (well,maybe better condition).He very kindly worked with several folks here and painted ALL of our KIAs names on each cargo door.The bird flys in UK airshows as well has been featured in several magazines.It has also been on TV and in a couple of movies already. http://www.huey.co.uk/ is the site.He welcomes comments from us 129thers on his guest page.Oh,the bird is an H model with 509 being its tail number. Several of us have also been visting with the ROK tiger site(nam vets),a great site with lots of pictures.Tho its listed as a Tiger Div site,whitehorse and blue dragons also use it as there home site.http://www.vietvet.co.kr/us/us.htm is their site. You might want to contact Bill wolf for his CD of the last 2 reunions.He has done an excellent job and worth viewing to any 129th ahc member.Warning,his CD could very well bring tears to your eyes,,,it did mine.He made the CD,sent them out to all requested,all at his own cost in time and money.Thanks Bill.Bill is also (time premiting) writting a (historical?)book on the 129th,with stories from all of us.Again Bill,use any story I have posted in here or will mail to you.Bill also has a web site geared towards Nam Vet reunions.http://vietnamheloreunion.com/ is that site. We recieved TAX free state status(129th ahc assoc) in Indiana but lots of crap happened and I havent followed thru on the federal tax free ststus.Sorry guys, i know I have had time since then to finish up that,but just havent geared up to do it. Did i leave anything out guys?
alvis
USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 07:42:05 (MDT)
Bill Wolf,Jae Chung(nam vet) of the Tiger Div web site has recieved and viewed your CD. Futher more, he intends to somehow post it on his site for viewing by other ROK Nam Veterans from the white horse and Tiger Div.Excellent job Bill! Best of luck to the two young ones.
alvis
USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 06:43:22 (MDT)
Lurch, You hit it on the head earlier about Durden. He was way over his head. Do you remember Cpt. Dick Howe, my roomie? I'd like to get in touch with him again. He was a Warrant his first tour and came back a RLO Captain his second. He was a fantastic pilot and taught me much. I don't think Durden approved of a Warrant and a Cpt sharing a hootch, and gave us a lot of grief.
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 21:28:54 (MDT)
Pete, Robbie, Ray , Keith.......is so great to see you guys names in here. Course that goes for everybody too..............anybody that wants to stay updated on the progress of Capt Matt Parker and the issue of using the "BULLDOG" name for his batt. send me an email and I will send it to you..........I tried to send a mass email to all addresses that I have but could not do it. Still computer stupid here............Bill W. glad to see you made it home ok. Hey Pete Rhome, take care of yourself brother. Glad you got to meet up with Pete Nolan in DC........................always a brother...............Mark
Mark
USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 19:51:30 (MDT)
Looks like the flight log won't let me put in "greater than" or "less than" symbols. Insert the @ symbol after 'dave' and 'powers' in the eddresses. Man this turned out to be a lot of work...
Dave Powers
USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 15:59:25 (MDT)
Dennis, my work eddress is davebuckhorngeo.com and home is powersmontrose.net... (substitute an @ for ) in the above. I'm told this is a way to prevent e-mail address harvesting.
Dave Powers
USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 15:57:08 (MDT)
Dave Powers, my filter on my computer, I guess by Hotmail screens a lot of things out. I need your email address next time you are on site. I am going to see how to limit the filters. To me it is greek.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
Bradford, Pa USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 14:55:59 (MDT)
Dennis, did you check your e-mail?
Dave Powers
USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 13:45:34 (MDT)
Robbie, I remember that night VERY well!! Seems like everyone but my ship got shot up pretty good. I remember one pilot had his helmet mic cord shot off about an inch from the helmet. We did get the Air Medal with "V" device for that night so I guess that was something!!! Main thing is we rescued the crew!!!! Bill
Bill Wolf
USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 12:46:37 (MDT)
Pete, good to see a post from you Brother. It wasn't there when I started my previous post, so we must have been typing at the same time. Hope all will be ok for you now...Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 12:05:54 (MDT)
Joe Bulldog745, I was on a mission that went on into the night to retrieve some of our fellow 129th Brothers from a downed helicopter. It was a scary mission and tracers of different colors flying up at us. I know Bill Wolf was on the same mission. My ship ended up being Chalk 1 and the company commander at the time (69/70) was "Major Cooper" . My A.C. that day was Jim Sikes. We went in to refuel one time and picked up the Major and he flew in the A.C. seat for about 20 minutes and ended up getting a D.F.C. for that. I was pretty ticked off about that too, but Sikes told me not to fret about it too much because it's all politics and how the oficers were to jump on the opportunity to get medals. I decided it wasn't worth it to me to get worked up about it and I was fine after that. Hope everyone is doing ok.....Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 12:01:25 (MDT)
I talked with David Stamper brother George and George's wife Marsha this morning. I had left a message three days ago and somewhat broke down on the message. they had been on vacation and called me back this morning after hearing the message last night. I told them that I was the AC that David was with his last two days. I appologized for waiting so many years for calling. Unfortunately their parents have passed. I am going to send them a written account of his last two days with me starting the evening of 13 Apr 72 thru the last of the assault. They were both glad to hear from me and look forward to getting the email. Will keep you all posted.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 11:56:37 (MDT)
Hey Brothers, I know its been a long time,I guess i Been down more then up, for awile now,had to have part of my colen,taken out,not so fun,and fineley,went to the V.A for help with my Head after years of treating it outside the V.A,but its all good.Adn thats that. Been reading the posts on the log,about that M2, I had it for awile,till I got caught getting back in from the village, ya I was one of the crazeys that went out to the village,at night,and stade there till the houch mains, came in the morning hop on the truck, to get back in alwas had it with me,some officer, in a jeep seen me, and more or less had to give it up,or he would turn me in,not one of or guys. And I was the one, that took SSGT Meeks, jeep, out of the moter pool,on a dare, tore it up good,getting it out,was going to show it oof at the EM club, and sure enough, how was walking up the road ? the ssrg, and the Major, I think he wanted to kill me, right there.What a trip,I made it to D.C,this year,hooked up with Pete Nolan, had a great visit,Will probley, see him next year,I go every year. Well thats all I got for know, but would like to say Welcome to all the brothers that have just found us. Alway a Brother Pete Rhome 69/70
Pete Rhome <Bulldog216@sbcglobal.net>
Brook Park, OH USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 11:43:37 (MDT)
Greetings to All! Well, my son and I made it across country in his tiny KIA 4 cylinder!! He's now at CalState Northridge and on his way to becoming an Army officer!! My other son Bill, who many of you met at the San Antonio reunion is in his 2nd week of Boot Camp at MCRD San Diego. I'm back home now in Colorado Springs. I'm actually making some pretty significant life changes over the next several months. I'm wrapping up my consulting in emergency management and going to focus on my other real love - writing. I want to get our 129th book completed, but am also currently working on a book of fiction. It will also give me time to get my wife's "honey do's" completed around the house. I also found that traveling back and forth to California each week was taking a toll on my health - going from 6500 feet to 20 feet above sea level. So that was another consideration. I'll also have time to work on my project of getting Vietnam Helicopter vets to attend reunions. As some of you know I started a non-profit organization to do that (www.VietnamHeloReunion.com). I'll be doing some major changes to that website over the next month. Well, enough rambling!! Take care all and keep writing! Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 11:18:37 (MDT)
When I finished reading the words spoken by Joe Galloway at this year's VHPA Reunion, I was struck by the following: One, it seems it is never too late to have the amazing group of people that I served with acknowledged in such a heartfelt way. Two, that Mr. Galloway had failed to mention the comradery, the total interdependence, and yes the love we felt for the crewchiefs and gunners who were such an integral part of everything we ever accomplished. I still wonder at the unquestioning confidence, the bravery, and the skill of my fellow pilots and crews. It was an honor to have known you. Keep 'em in the green boys! Lurch
Keith "Lurch"Weisheit <keith.weisheit@insightbb.com>
Evansville, IN USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 22:36:39 (MDT)
Brother Wilson, Thanks for the reply, this is a big puzzle about French I wish that I could rember his first name, I looked in the roster in 65 and 66 but could not find him, it is like I was dreaming but I have a picture of him. Im going to send a bunch of pictures to wolf and then it may solve the puzzle I hope. Not seeing his name on the roster, makes it seeme like he was not supose to be found. Say can I call you some time I useto live in Arizona in 1969 to 75 in phoenix, here is my e-mail address joeandkristy@mstar.net if I can get your phone # I can give you a call some weekend or after 9pm on my cell no charge on either end. let me know ok. brothers for ever, Joe745
Joe 745
USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 22:02:12 (MDT)
Brother Wilson, Thanks for the reply, this is a big puzzle about French I wish that I could rember his first name, I looked in the roster in 65 and 66 but could not find him, it is like I was dreaming but I have a picture of him. Im going to send a bunch of pictures to wolf and then it may solve the puzzle I hope. Not seeing his name on the roster, makes it seeme like he was not supose to be found. Say can I call you some time I useto live in Arizona in 1969 to 75 in phoenix, here is my e-mail address joeandkristy@mstar.net if I can get your phone # I can give you a call some weekend or after 9pm on my cell no charge on either end. let me know ok. brothers for ever, Joe745
Joe 745
USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 22:01:54 (MDT)
Hello again. I talked to the old man today, and he is just about sold on going with the Bulldogs name and continuing the line. I just need a little more info on your history. I've read some here and some in other places, but we'll need a little more on the SOF support side. There are hints to it in a number of places, but I would like a little more specifics if it's possible. Mark J. has my email. I'd post it here again, but some dude from Alberia started sending me eScams to my work address. Thanks a bunch, and if you find that dude, let me know. -- CPT Matt
Matt Parker
FT Lewis, WA USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 21:08:52 (MDT)
Joe, There was another French, Bill French who crewed in 68-69 and lives in Geogia
J.W. Wilson
USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 20:49:22 (MDT)
Say J.W., I read your note about French, He was in the unit in 65, If I rember right. it was his 3rd tour in Nam. He told me that he came over with the unit. When I got to the 129th. it was in about Dec.17th I think,of 65. I was assigned to 745, I found the ship after about 15 min.I asked if he was French, he said why? I told him that I was told that 745 was my skip to fly on. He said this is my "aircraft" and dont you forget it, and you will fly on the right side and do what I say ok, I told him your the boss and we got along great after that conversation. Say did any one of us ever go any where that we were not aware of? like over the border?I dont rember flying with the SF on those kinds of missions? and takeing all of our patches off and blacking all of the numbers and any thing that rezembles a US Chopper and after doing so have to sign a statement that this flight did not happen? I loved those kinds of "games" dident some of you guys see some new countries too? Some times you can even get a medal if your over a E-7 .... or an officer....am I ticked????? My wife kinda puts it like this. I was friking & fracing over this one. Joe BullDog 745 always a Brother.
Joe (208) 939-9302 <joeandkristy@mstsr.net>
USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 19:23:56 (MDT)
Bill Wolf,Phil recieved the Cd and enjoyed it.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 17:15:55 (MDT)
I just had an 83 yr old WWII vet patient in my office today. Elmer DeLucia. 1st generation Italian American. Elmer was in charge of the sights on an 81 mm mortar. He landed late in the day on D-Day. He saw over 300 days in combat, over 60 straight at one time. Did not get to change his clothing for 30-60 days at a time. Had frost bite from sleeping in the snow for weeks on end. Elmer has two purple hearts, two silver stars, five bronze stars...and on and on. He is a local minor celeb. Talks to groups about the war. Brought pictures today of German tanks they had taken out. Had two rounds to left to do the job as the tank came around the corner. One took the track off and the other was a direct hit. They shot one of the crew as he came out with a burb gun. Amazing stuff. One of his brothers lost and eye flying as a gunner with the 8th Air Force over Europe, the other was MIA in china as an air crewman after bombing Rangoon. The aircraft he was on was found about five years ago by a chinese peasant up on a mountain side...a two year process to recover the remains. The story was on the new quite a bit and on I believe 20/20. Clinton had the dog tags from his brother at one time and I guess presented them to the relatives. He showed me his bothers dog tags. To me it is absolutely humbling to hear these storys and the ones on this site. To see what we are all a part of in the history of our Nation and our unit.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 14:14:39 (MDT)
Paul,I just ran across a crew chief from the 498th named Stanly ...crs...70/71 time frame i think.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 04:32:58 (MDT)
donnie i was with 498th and i remember seeing one just before i left. stupidest goddamn thing i ever heard of, sure was glad i was leaving.the red cross wasn't a big enough target.
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Tuesday, August 15, 2006 at 19:51:24 (MDT)
Joe, I think you and Frenchie had same ship about 5 or 6 years apart. 745?
J.W. Wilson
Kinston, N.C. USA - Tuesday, August 15, 2006 at 19:45:38 (MDT)
The keynote speech from the 2006 Viet Nam Helicopter Pilots Association reunion. Guest speaker, Joe Galloway, author of "We Were Young Once, And Brave"----- Thanks to all of you for giving me the honor to speaking to you. I have got to tell you that looking out across this assemblage I must confess: I haven't seen this many bad boys collected in one location since the last time I visited Leavenworth Prison. When I first learned that I would be doing this gig I asked an aviator buddy of mine what else I needed to know......and he said, well, most of you would be bringing your wives along.......that half of you were so damn deaf that you couldn't hear a word of what I was saying.....the other half would be so damn drunk you couldn't understand what I was saying..... so I might just as well talk To the ladies...... I have waited years to be able to share this story with so august a group of aviator veterans as this: A few years ago I was at a large official dinner and I was seated next to a nice lady who was the wife of a two-star general. I knew the lady had two college- age daughters and I also knew that one of them had been dating a Cavalry lieutenant.......so I thought to make some polite conversation and I offered her my condolences at her daughter's choice of companionship. "Oh No!" the general's wife said. "He is a fine young man. Nothing wrong with him......and at least he isn't a goddam aviator!" I just wanted you to know that your successors in the bizness continue to win friends and influence people in high places. Before I go along any further in this thing I need to ask you some questions: --Is there anyone here who flew with the 1st Cavalry Division? The 229th? The 227th? How about the old 119th out of Holloway? Any Marine pilots who flew them old CH-34 Shuddering Shithouses??? Now I know I am among close friends......I know that old Ray Burns from Ganado, Texas, is here.....and I have got to tell you a story a bout me and Ray that goes back to October of 1965. Plei Me SF Camp was under siege by a regiment of North Vietnamese regulars. I was trying to get in there.....like a fool......but after an A1E and a B57 Canberra and one Huey had been shot down they declared it a No-Fly Zone. So I was stomping up and down the flight line at Holloway cussing......when I ran across Ray. He asked what the problem was and I told him. He allowed as how he had been wanting to get a look at that situation and would give me a ride...... I still have a picture I shot out the open door of Ray's Huey. We are doing a kind of corkscrew descent and the triangular berms and wire of the camp below fill that doorway.....along with the puffs of smoke from the impacting mortar rounds inside the camp. Hell.....I can scare myself bad just looking at that photo. Well old Ray drops on in and I jump out....and the Yards boil out of the trenches and toss a bunch of wounded in the d oor and Ray is pulling pitch.....grinning......and giving me the bird. When the noise is gone this sergeant major runs up: Sir, I don't know who you are but Major Beckwith wants to see you right away. I ask which one is the major and I am informed he is the very big guy over there jumping up and down on his hat. I go over slowly. The dialogue goes something like this: Who the hell are you? A reporter. Son, I need everything in the goddam world from food and ammo to water....to medevac......to reinforcements.....and I wouldn't mind a bottle of Jim Beam.......but what I do not need is a goddam reporter. And what has the Army in its wisdom delivered to me? Well....I got news for you.....you ain't a reporter no more; you are my new corner machine gunner." Ray.....I want to thank you for that ride.......wasn't for you and Chuck Oualline I wouldn't have had half as much fun in Vietnam. Hell.....every story anyone has about Vietnam starts and end s with a helicopter......you guys were simply fantastic. Thank you all. Thank you for every thing....large and small. Now I guess I got to get down to bizness. All of you know that I have spent most of the last forty years hanging out with the Infantry.....a choice some folks view as perverse if not totally insane. But there was always method in my madness: With the Infantry things happen close enough that I can see what's happening.....and slowly enough most times that even I can understand what I'm seeing. There's just this one little downside to my long experience with the Infantry: During that time I have personally been bombed.....rocketed.....strafed..... and napalmed by the U.S. Air Force.....U.S. Navy......U.S. Marines.....and U.S. Army Aviation......as well as by the air forces of South Vietnam.....Laos......Sri Lanka......India......and Pakistan. Now I don't consider myself an inconsiderable target.....and wasn't even ba ck when I could fit comfortably behind a palm tree......but here I am....running my mouth.....nothing hurt beyond my dignity. Don't get me wrong; I don't hold any grudges against those gallant winged warriors. But ever since the first time they attacked me and missed.....I have never ever used the words "surgical bombing strike" in any story I ever wrote. I had the chance to say some good things about all of you at the Memorial Service at The Wall on Sunday. I meant every word of that..... and more. You chopper guys were our heroes in Vietnam. You were our rides....but you were much much more than that. We were always either cussing you for hauling our butts into deep kimchi.....or ready to kiss you for hauling us out of it. I have a feeling that without you and your birds that would have been a much shorter and far more brutish war. You were our heroes, though, first last and always. You saved us from having to walk to work every day . You brought in our food and ammo and water.....and sometimes even a marmite can full of hot chow. To this day I think the finest meal I ever ate was a canteen cup full of hot split pea soup that a Huey delivered to a hilltop in the dry paddies of the Bong Son Plain in January of 1966. For a moment there I thought if the Army could get a hot meal out to an Infantry company on patrol maybe.....just maybe.....we could win the damn war. Oh well. I think often of all that you did for us.....all that you meant to us: You came for our wounded. You came to get our dead brothers. You came....when the fight was over.....to give us a ride home from hell. There isn't a former Grunt alive who doesn't freeze for a moment and feel the hair rise on the back of his neck when he hears the whup whup whup of those helicopter blades. What I want to say now is just between us.....because America still doesn't get it.....still doesn't know the truth, and the truth is: You are the cream of the crop of our generation.....the best and finest of an entire generation of Americans. You are the ones who answered when you were called to serve.....You are the ones who fought bravely and endured a terrible war in a terrible place. You are the ones for whom the words duty. .honor. country have real meaning because you have lived those words and the meaning behind those words. You are my brothers in arms....and I am not ashamed to say that I love you, would not trade one of you for a whole trainload of instant Canadians.....or a whole boatload of Rhodes Scholars bound for England......or a whole campus full of guys who turned up for their draft physicals wearing panty hose. On behalf of a country that too easily forgets the true cost of war.....and who pays that price....I say Thank you for your service! On behalf of the people of our country who didn't have good sense enough to separate the war they hated from the young warrior s they sent to fight that war.....I say we are sorry. We owe you all a very large apology.....and a debt of gratitude that we can never adequately repay. For myself and all my buddies in the Infantry I say: Thanks for all the rides in and out....especially the rides out. It is great to see you all gathered here for this reunion. A friend of mine, Mike Norman, a former Marine grunt....wrote a wonderful book called "These Good Men" about his quest to find and reunite with all the survivors of his platoon from Vietnam. He thought long and deep about why we gather as we have done this evening and he explained it thusly: I now know why men who have been to war yearn to reunite. Not to tell stories or look at old pictures. Not to laugh or weep. Comrades gather because they long to be with the men who once acted their best.....men who suffered and sacrificed.....who were stripped raw......right down to their humanity. I did not pick these men. They were delivered by fate and the military. But I know them in a way I know no other men. I have never given anyone such trust. They were willing to guard something more precious than my life. They would have carried my reputation.....the memory of me. It was part of the bargain we all made.....the reason we were so willing to die for one another. As long as I have memory I will think of them all.....every day. I am sure that when I leave this world....my last thought will be of my family and my comrades.......such good men. I'm going to shut up now and let us all get down to the real business of drinking and lying.....er.....telling war stories. Thank you. I salute you. I remember you. I will teach my sons the stories and legends about you. And I will warn my daughters never ever to go out with aviators...... Good evening. G