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OUTSTANDING! Makes what we went through worthwhile!
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in reply to bill McMaster: there is nothing that would make what a grunt went thru “worth it”. the entire country was not worth the life of the first American killed in that hell hole. I read this blog in hopes of finding others in my AO at the same time. lz milehigh/virgin/incoming, middle of ’68. polei klang area.
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blome. I got drafted into the army. you are a pompous ass. things look differently after 50 or so yrs. you should live long enuf to regret your ignorance.
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your Filipina I take it and either you live in the states or in your homeland of the Philippines. anyway, I sympathize with you. it was a worthless war but young boys were dragged into it because of the war mixed in with politics
the government and politicians and agencies were apart of it hey would never stand in the rice field being killed or taken as p.o.w. s but the young soldiers were sworn to uphold the constitution which I feel were blindly lied to it of what I feel was not the truth politically. I can not blame them at that.
But I can say war never changes present day like Iraq. Afghanistan, Liberia,
and the other three countries like in Syria.
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Worthless war say the least. If every politician had to send 1 family member into combat there wouldn’t be any wars! Same thing going on now Mideast. Not going change their culture just like we won’t let foreigners change ours.
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I agree that war fixes nothing! I am 77 years old and still have nightmares about Vietnam. To much death for me as a nineteen year old door gunner. Plenty of action, lot for stress, just waiting for the nva to attack! I served in. 1965, Vinh Long.
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I was a 19 year old man and came home after3 years an old one
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Someone has heavy duty6 PTSD, or is just a liberal.
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You have never been to war, have you. You are a good Democrat for trashing something you know nothing about.
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Amen
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Keith, I am a proud Democrat and a proud Vietnam Vet (67-68). I’m just saying we shouldn’t label people because of their political affiliation. I have no idea what prompted your comment, as I came across this post today (4/17/21). All I can say is, “Welcome Home, Brother, and may God grant you peace, love, and compassion”!
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I agree with you Mike! I didn’t see the whole article however what does it matter whether your Democrat, Republican or whatever? We went to war and all the craziness that came along with it and all have varying opinions of our time over there. Let’s put these labels away and work towards unity in this county
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Keith, don’t further divide our nation–and veterans like me–based on current politics. I’m a liberal who voted Democrat and served in two wars, lost my wife to one, with a family well experienced in ground combat–including a POW and several Purple Hearts. We are united by our service and your post uses politics to divide us.
Welcome home.
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Amen brother
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I am a Democrat BECAUSE of the total lies given by Republican politicians. Have never forgiven Nixon.
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From a Medic at Nui Dat – you certainly appear dangerously brainwashed while we were attempting to improve the infant mortality death rate from 48 % & enhance the lives from average life span of 40. Don’t ever forget the lovely Democrats had a large hand in all this while brainwashing the naive & gullible state side
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I have read repeatedly how the reporters would write their story for the day and send it to the news? desks state side. The desk jockeys would then rewrite the stories sent from Vietnam.
When the reporters would get their daily briefing from the military, they knew they were getting a load of BS. The referred to it as the “five o’clock follies”. We got the five o’clock follies just in a different format.
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You’re right, maybe we SHOULD have stayed the hell out of Vietnam, but our soldiers don’t make those kinds of decisions, our leaders do. However, had we stayed out of EVERY OTHER Country where would the world be now? What would’ve happened if the United States didn’t enter WWII when we did? Wherever YOU are from, odds are that you have benefited from past actions of an American soldier whether directly or indirectly, and where you detected “arrogance” in the previous comment I have no clue but then again your comments referring to POTUS Trump also made no sense.
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My previous comment was in reply to lauren caros, just to clarify things, and to expand on that, also to lauren caros…….the “hellhole” being referred to was NOT the Country of Vietnam in general but rather the WAR that was going on at that time and all of the effects the war had on the soldiers AND the civilians at the time, which I’m sure can ONLY be described as a “hellhole” by ANY American soldier who risked his life in the effort to stem the spread of communism, and I thank him for his sacrifice as well as EVERY other American who EVER fought in ANY war representing the greatest Country in the world!
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Tell her, Mr. Boston…although it is really doubtful that such a thick skull could be penetrated with anything that is the truth…!
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Brendan Boston: You do not have to ‘splain yourself to any of us – least of all the ungrateful, uh, person who made those deeply ignorant comments….heard enough about the “hell hole” we call Vietnam in that war. That any of you came out sane is a miracle. THANK YOU! – for your service, esp. as you and your buddies were esp. underappreciated and, apparently, still are…
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Someone wrote a positive about Americans at war. Took about fifty years.
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I believe, just another Lib-tard who may not have even been there. Yet, feels the need to criticize everything America. Grunts don’t start Wars, they just finish them!! Don’t like President Trump, well then, don’t vote for him in next General Election. Vote for the Dem-Commie of your choice!!
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Fuck You and your ‘Libtard’ rant. This Liberal went to Vietnam four times, and retired as a LT of Police in the Civilian world.. Why in the hell didn’t your Hero Trump join the Military??!!
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What?
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Glad to see you enjoy freedom of speech so I am guessing you are from a freedom loving country that enjoys its freedom from something AMERICA has done in the past to allow you those freedoms. But, arrogance works in all directions. Enjoy your life and pray to whomever you pray to giving thanks for freedoms you enjoy that others may not have that opportunity to enjoy the same in their life time.
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You need to get a real life, maybe you should enlist in the military and you would understand life better!
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STUPID !
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And maybe you should go back to whatever third or fourth world shit-hole you crawled out of and leave this discussion to the literate adults of the world.
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Do not comment on what we do as PATRIOTIC AMERICANS. Foreign countries that we have SAVED from extinction just need to say, “Thank you” and respect what our country has done and is willing to continue to do…. SAVE YOUR ASS!! God Bless America and God Bless President Donald Trump!
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Lauren…you talk like a F/Coward!
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Just another stupid liberal who knows NOTHING! I did my duty as a door gunner in ’65.
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I think all who want to be under socialist domination should apply for citizenship in the countries who offer it. I was a Huey pilot in Nam and did my patriotic duty. Nothing like the sound of those rotor blades when they’re coming to get you…
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Barrie Windel: I’m beginning to wonder if you ever really served with the Fourth or were on Mile High?? You’re only reference is Terry Lance whom I don’t remember however do you remember Bill Devore, Floyd Bliilingslea, LT Matusek, the moronic So called White Knight, Russ Krill, Bob Fritsche, Steve our tunnel rat, Sarge Penny. So I’ve tried to contact you by email br looks like you’re on R&R
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no idea of your agenda. it’s easy to check on stuff of this nature. have you thought of checking in with the 35th infantry site? after that, stick your negativity where the sun don’t shine. go ahead, i’ll wait.
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believe it or not, the entire battalion was on that lz/fb. if I don’t recognize a half dozen people that you made up, it don’t mean shit. lance was Charlie company, my time was in delta company. I basically live on the internet, and I ain’t heard of you, either. fuk off.
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Hey Barrie lighten up dude!! Perhaps my sense of humor should have had a smiley face with it! I’m not questioning your status man!! just seeing if you knew some of my Charlie Company buddies !! Oh well sounds like you wanna be left alone so have a great life man!!
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Always some asshole tries to (you Lauren caros) bring politics into everything. The Vietnam War was a political disaster and we should have never sacrificed the lives of the 65k plus that died there, but was not about Trump!!
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And you, Lauren Caros, had to make it political-with your hateful, prejudiced and IGNORANT comments…wow! How dare you call anyone else ignorant when you spew such hate to a vet, no less!?! They are the very ones you should thank, bec. you never had to nor probably will have to defend our freedoms, including freedom to show one’s stupidity! Vietnam was truly a place in which we should not have set foot-esp.. if our soldiers, now veterans, were not given the support they needed to win. They could have won-and that place would not be one that still tramples on human rights (as all communist countries do) IF that had been the case. Save your hate please, for your true enemies-those who are envious of our freedoms, but still wish to take those away. And if you think those do not exist, you live in La-La-Land. In the meantime, educate yourself – or just keep your hateful comments to yourself-or share with others who, though not vets do LOVE America and think the Vietnam vets, esp., got a really raw deal and do NOT deserve to hear from the likes of you.
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And what port of entry did you arrive at?
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Lauren aren’t u glad we veterans gave u the right of free speech to speak trash about our country! My suggestion to you since you don’t like America use another freedom we veterans gave you – the freedom to leave Delta is ready and waiting to take you!
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HEY, Lauren Caros, perhaps you should thank every one of us veterans for providing the blanket of security you sleep under every night before you go out blasting off about this country you call home.
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We do not need people like you in America. Analyse history and see where the world would be if we stayed home.
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It is just wonderful that you can voice your opinion in this country. Walk a mile in our shoes, lets see how you feel when you have tried your best to do what is right and be greeted with what you have to say. Wrong place, right time. We did our best.
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Dear Lauren caros , since my time in war I am no loner violent so the only comment I have is please tell your family to let me know when you pass so I can piss on your grave
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Yeah Lauren,you can thank the democratic party for that if it happens!
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what a huge mistake the military’s industrial complex made in Vietnam 🇻🇳 very evil humans at the top.
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I think that this is Probably the Best I’ve read and it captures My Mind the way Very FEW
Things have ever done !
I’ve been to the WALL twice but Never could
Work up the Nerve to Actually go Down the
Slope to the Names inscribed on It.
Do I regret Not doing so?
No, I’m not sure whether I could handle the
Runaway Emotions I would Experience looking for Names of My fellow Marines!
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Folks like you who are ungrateful and uneducated as to what America has done for many countries over many years, without asking for much in return, are the reason I would vote to let you swim alone when danger lurks. You don’t deserve the sacrifices of our dead patriots
.
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Lauren, look at history and find what President got us in Vietnam. It was an unjust war for sure but we were mostly age around 19, had no say in the politics of that war. Next time bitch at the politicians. Ron Rowland, Vinh Long, 1965, gunner/avionics.
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We have always entered into conflicts with the best of intentions and we have always tried to leave those countries as a self ruled democracy. Unfortunately we haven’t always been successful. If you look at North Korea and South Korea, which place would you rather live. Hopefully you are old enough to remember East Germany and West Germany. Which one of those countries survived and ask yourself why. Two of the greatest economies on the planet and have one the highest standards of living are countries that lost to us in WWII. Perhaps you should study history before you call other people ignorant. We live in the greatest country on the planet and have tried to help other countries buy into democracy and capitalism but most are too corrupt and lack the education to succeed.
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You have no clue what you are talking about. America has gone to other countries because they have been invited to stop the carnage of their own, including women and children, by evil dictators. You are an angry, bitter fool.
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Obviously written by a person who has no respect or is a committed communist or socialist. Just do some research and view what the U.S. has done for many other countries. Go and view the fallen at Normandy who gave their lives for freedom for all. Look at the graves of those who were cut down in the prime of their lives, look, think, and give thanks. Freedom is earned at a heavy price, lives taken to prevent domination by dictators and their ilk. The U.S. saved many foreign peoples in order to give them the opportunity for freedom and peace. Those of us who served made sacrifices and should be recognized appropriately. We were called and made the world a better place. There will always be those who seek to spread chaos and their poison to others. Freedom comes at a price and others will always be there to defend it.
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I like this “article” but the Rats that bothered me most were the V.C. Tunnel Rats😬
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You are ONE TRUE ASSHOLE !
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you must have majored in tact and diplomacy.
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Well, it’s over two years since your hate filled rant. I can only guess that your hatred for America and our iconoclastic President has rendered you catatonic. Reversing decades of American descent resulting in the preeminent Position in a dangerous world. Our military and economy runs circles around those who, just three years ago delighted in our pending demise.
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In typical combat infantry slang I would just like to say:
Fuck Off!!
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FU Cunt
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Article brings back Memories, some good, most bad but it’s a great history & recollection of what ‘Nam
was like to Lots of us. This is more intense than anything I personally experienced !
Have to Tip the Hat to these guys for staying Cool enough to do what they Had to do & survive
(most of them at least)😖
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My Main Wish, after reading your IGNORANT Asinine comments is that you could be Forced to Move Out of these United States U despise so much ASAP.
PLEASE Move to the one of the countries we’ve “wrecked” like Afghanistan, Iraq OR Vietnam where speaking as U do will get U SHOT with No Trial, No Jury, only a couple of commies with GUNS!
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Go to HELL you Commie Liberal CUNT ! Be sure to Vote for a F*cling Libtard like yourself, BITCH!
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WE DO NOT NEED THIS TYPE OF DRIVEL ON THIS WEBSITE!!! ELIMINATE IT.
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Easy Lauren, you know nothing about this! We are the men that did the fighting as directed by our Government, where were you? No words can explain what we went through 24/7 for 13 months.
I am old (74) and would love to slap the shirt out of you. Have a nice day!
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What a worthless piece of crap you are. There is no way that we can remove the political forces that were in play in Vietnam. The amount of suffering and death was to forever keep the war and suffering away from our shores. You disrespect all soldiers and sailors that have done this gladly. If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.
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the article left me feeling quilty that all I got was a broken collar bone and a left hip and knee that don’t work right in my 29 crash and burns, 3 Death Bracelets
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It was good.
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Beg to differ with you. I served 3 tour in combat there and would do it again.
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Need to become familiar with the communist attempt to take over a good part of the world. Had to be stopped, as did hitler
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Bill was you with 117tc 11bn
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Outstanding piece. And the average American still doesn’t give a damn. I was a1st Cav grunt 7/68- 7/69.
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Very interesting, a little sad. I’m writing a romance novel about a couple that lost track of each other during the Vietnam war due to letters not received. He served on a Naval submarine. I want to make it as feasible as possible. This helped, learning that letters took about two weeks to be received. Thank you for sharing.
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Submarines stayed off shore and under water. If he was a brown (rivers) sailer he would have had a good deal of contact with the population. Look at the Vietnam Delta on Google Earth then read up on Riverine activities. This will get you your character.
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Very nicely done. I was there where with 101st Ava. Bn. Airborne Div. On the Assault into the A-Shau Valley in Aug. 68. I watched the C model gunship that was making the recording crash killing Harry Kim. Also, D Company was originally Charlie models before it became D Co. The Hawks, which were Cobras. Very well done. The audio tape truly shows the chaos of war. It was crazy day, we were in such confined space with so many helos, it was a miracle we did not crash into each other. Respect to my fallen brother and sister.
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To answer the question as to why we lost that Vietnam war, simple, most of us were not trained for jungle fighting! My basic training at a Fort Jackson in 1963 was a joke taught by Korea and WWll veterans using outdated training. When I arrived in VIETNAM, I was in the the thick of it. Knew nothing about who I was to be fighting. I was taught about marching and weapons! I was 19 years old at the time, many died due to lack of knowledge just like me! I was lucky, did OJT I very day to stay alive. The Army at the time was hard headed. Had no training on the M60 machine gun but they made me a door gunner on a Huey chopper— every day. Just had to vent! Ron Rowland
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Well I guess it depends on where you were trained, in Fort Polk Louisiana (Tigerland) we had Sargents that had served in Nam and trained us to the best of their ability because of there tours over there. They didn’t cut us much slack and were honest about conditions and the fact that no matter what they taught us we would be OTJ training as you said. But they did a good job getting us as ready as they could. I’m glad I went to Tigerland even though it was tough and demanding. I started out as an RTO in Nam but as you know FNG’s didn’t get much help! Wound up getting hit by a mortar round and caught some shrapnel but luckily got home with not to much damage. Anyways lots of stories out there man and thanks for sharing . Tom
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I also did my Basic and AIT in Tigerland fort Polk 1969 Trained for 11B but they changed my mos to 64B20 Heavy Truck Driver hauling JP-4 chopper fuel
Iron Triangle area and Cambodia 69-70 made it back with a little shrapnel !
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This is all I got on the 2 emails sent. Doug
Respond to this comment by replying above this line
Thanks for flying with WordPress.com
Please note: message attached
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We couldn’t have lost in Vietnam as when S. Vietnam fell(1975) we had NO troops there since 1973 ! Go figure !!!??
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My late husband served with a Special Forces group, received advanced training, said over and over “We knew what we were getting into,” which indicated no small amount of trepidation. Still, it must have been different for most troops, esp. those drafted…That said THANK YOU! – for your service. Am glad that you came back, as did my husband, but he suffered with his memories forever afterward, until his death.
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Good observation. Drafted in ‘71, Army Medic (91Bravo). The war was a lie propagated on the general public by the Military Industrial Complex. The OSS was in VN aiding the Vietnamese defeat the Japanese . Ho Chi Minh approached the USA at the end of WW II to free them from French rule after the war but was turned down. JFK knew what was going on but was murdered. By the time I was in American service members were reviled by their peers. I served because it was the law and I was raised to obey laws weather I agreed with them or not.
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I (USMC) shipped over in 1965 with Army warrant officer helicopter pilots. Great people!
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Learning more of the details … BZ Doug !
JC, DLG28, PIRAZ
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JC, find your name all over the place
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Wonderful story read a little about Hegdahl before. Only that he had a photographic memory.
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I recently read a book by Mark Berent in which he had added this story ai the hanoi Hilton. His books are Rolling Thunder ,Steel Tiger and several more about Vietnam.
I was a Cold War veteran but went to Vietnam in 1972 with LSI as an aircraft electrician.
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Doug, I’m 6 1/2 years late, but want to thank you and your LSI brothers for working your butts off to help keeping my old worn out helicopters in the air. You guys didn’t have to put up with the BS from the Green Machine so could work all day and night till the job was done. You’r just as much a Vietnam Veteran as those of us that were in uniform.
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Terrific article highlighting the blessings of common sense.
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Excellent, but don`t forget the Aussies and others.
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I’ve occasionally wondered how I would’ve held up under those circumstances. Sure glad I never had to find out, ’cause I’m sure I’d never have lived up to the standards these guys set.
Rob J. 11Bravo AlphaCo/4th/47th,9thInfDiv USArmy RVN ’68
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Someone needs to break the mystique that surrounds the USMC. I was attached to 3rd MARDIV and in truth the Army units were much better in the field. But no cameramen.
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My nickname in VN was Hippie. Because I was getting the Berkley Barb underground news rag mailed to me from Calif. I was in VQ 1 Navy air electronic squadron TAD to the 1st. Marine Airwing at Danang AB from 1966 to May 1973. Flying A3 aircraft and the Lockheed EC 121 Connie”s up in the Gulf.
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By 1967, 3rd Mar Div infantry spent their entire tour in the field. ‘Time Off, Rest, Regroup n Train, etc.’ was taking the perimeter of a fire base for a few days with no certainty that it was cold, easy.
Michael Herr, Chapter 5, dumped big time bad on arrogant marines and outrageous casualties. Close to 2 years, the most I seen in the field of a 200 man TO rifle company was about 120.
Ain’t no mystique, we were laughed at by all. One of the worst threats you could say to an Army type is sending them to marines. Scared most silly.
Look at casualties — not statistics that are manipulation but data — look at Field Strength vs TO, look at equipment n weapons, look who we fought 99.9% of time, look at ….. Forget about it, but if you browse just a tad look at what we done with what we were given. Especially realizing that we weren’t dumb enough to not clean our rifles, yet many still had their cleaning rods hanging belt loops and way too much bayonets fixed. We didn’t get no options cause of blue vs red, white n yellow, which model we had nor taking our rockets away n using crap LAW. We was going up and/or taking whatever, no ifs, and buts, and ….
BUT — Just Friggin Amazing of results, performance. And didn’t see no cameramen, reporters till a time after.
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Sounds like the Sgt Maj. Wants to write the Prolog on Hillary’s next book. Because the Army didn’t have as many cameramen as the Marine’s. Please Sgt. Maj. don’t tarnish that star in the middle of your stripes by saying the Marine’s got more Airtime than the Army with Walter Cronkite.
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Sounds like Sgt Maj needs some schooling on readin n writin. My intent was talking up the Corps in a backhanded way. I don’t know nothin about cameramen but I do know that USMC n cameras was a big time Rag during WWII — by da Army, probably embarrassed by not thinkin of it. During WW NAM, no way . We’re talking Air Mobile — Air Cav, 101,176. Not many Bigs spent meaningful time w us working the hills and borders racing thru bush like overloaded snails.
That mystique was at the grunt, fire team, squad, platoon, co level and it was real. We took 549, maybe 552, in night attack and after day or two worked along ridge til 689 where we had to trench. Adult leadership said to hold it. Won’t get into cornflakes but anybody who worked hills along Laotian border knows what happens. There was a big OP , Peg…, to save us poor marines around Khe Sahn and Lo and Behold, in comes a thousand slicks w 101 taking Hill right next to us — we called it peanuts. Maybe 800 meters peak to peak.
Downright neighborly for them to stop n show us how it’s done. Also, to see a friendly face, kinda, since nothing but NVA on the other hills surrounding us. They left within a week, day after NVA had 2/3’s of their hill, peanuts, and Spooky came in and put on a show. After, We hadda take Peanuts a few times for grins n giggles.
My point, the real big press guys didn’t show us much. BUT, NO MISTAKE, I RESPECT ALL WHO WERE THERE.
Last, fifty, I got no clue what your words of wisdom are. And about my ‘star’, I got more bad paper — NJP’s, Page 11’s, counseling, Letters of Reprimand…. than an entire modern day Bn. But, I musta been able to do something right.
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Hey Lauren,
Let us know how you really Feel!
Ciao=Chow
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Are you saying the Army vs. Marine Corps were much better in the field at taking pictures??
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Marines
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I was with A Trp, 7/1 Air Cav, Blackhawks Vinhlong Army Airfield. August 70 /Dec30,71. While operating around Dong Tam which was AO for the Arvin 7th Div. The 9th had already pulled out, base taken over by Arvin. There was an AUSIE helicopter unit, I was always amazed at their grooming standards.
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Brother Bill,
Great article, was at MAT 65 in Sadec, down from Vinh lLong, from 70-71. Hoping you made it home w/o any medical problems!
If you’d like here is my email address: jerrypgr@hotmail.com
Ciao=Chow,
Jerry
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I was at the Vinh Long Army airfield in ’65, door gunner/avionics.
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Excellent piece of writing – been there, done that Bro. Welcome home.
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My dad served with VA-85 on the USS America CVA-66 at Yankee Station in 1968-69. His squadron CO, CDR Coskey, was shot down and taken POW. Coskey’s B/N was rescued.
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my husband was a helicopter Gun ship pilot in Vietnam 1966 & 1967 (1939-2013)
enjoyed your blog very much, was sent to me by another Vietnam Veteran.
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This is good medicen for me as I was over there in ’67.
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I enjoyed this article, reminds me of the Midnight to 0400 Guard…
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Excellent read.
I have long carried the disgusting way
I was treated at San Francisco airport.
I had a. 5 hour wait before my flight and encountered roving groups of teens and early 20 year olds looking for soldiers to harass. I avoided them as much as possible being alone.
I met up with two of my Brothers taking the same flight as I.
We spent the remainder of the night as a group and the taunters then avoided us.
Was never so relaxed to get on a flight.
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Bruce I went through the same thing in San Francisco in March of 70 when I returned home was the worst I had foot in the 16 months I spent in Vietnam as nd I can’t bring my self to ever forgive anyone from Bateman town
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I also was treated badly also at airport in Boston, MA.
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You’re right, maybe we SHOULD have stayed the hell out of Vietnam, but our soldiers don’t make those kinds of decisions, our leaders do. However, had we stayed out of EVERY OTHER Country where would the world be now? What would’ve happened if the United States didn’t enter WWII when we did? Wherever YOU are from, odds are that you have benefited from past actions of an American soldier whether directly or indirectly, and where you detected “arrogance” in the previous comment I have no clue but then again your comments referring to POTUS Trump also made no sense.
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Larryridgway Please let me apologize to you for the embarrassingly horrible way you were treated in Boston, and instead to say thank you for your service from the city of Boston, something that was obviously LONG overdue! ✌
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I’m glad that the public treats veterans much better now!
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Reblogged this on MayesAndPryorPolitics.com and commented:
As the Memorial Day weekend is ending, a wanted to share this wonderful Vietnam POW story with you. I hope you enjoy some of these stories I post when local things are reasonably quiet.
PLEASE “Like” this post if you do like it, so that I will know your response.
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I was stationed on the USS Canberra for three ‘Nam deployments: ’66 through ’68. I didn’t know Doug Hegdahl – 1,200 man crew – but I recall when we couldn’t find him. It was several weeks later when we were on R&R down in Melbourne, Australia when we got the word he had been taken P.O.W. Being in the ‘Used Book’ business, I eventually located an old 1967 USS Canberra ‘Cruisebook’ (which Doug wouldn’t have received) and sent it out to him in California. Got a nice ‘Thank You’ card” from him reading” ‘Thanks for the Cruise Book – Being a P.O.W. was shittie Duty, but at least it was Shore Duty” – Gotta love it!!!!
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You have a great book here you should do well. I’ve written four books over the years. You and I may write for the same reason, personal therapy…
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Thank you Stantasyland! Welcome Home Brother!
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Your Tunnel Rat photo No 5 was Melvin Sherrell from my Squad (KIA 12/13/66. I was in the lower level… This was taken in the Ho Bo Woods. Bravo Co 1st Plt 3rd squad of the 1st Bn 5th Inf 25th ID 1966… (Reactionary Force for War Zone C & D in 1966) I have this on our 1/5th website. I have been back to Nam 4 times in the last 5 1/2 years and get special permission to run the Hole over there. I took some good pictures and videos of them… They are full of snakes, the Cobras love them as well as all the other good little inhabits of them. Bats, spiders, scorpions and some are still booby trapped. They are now building a National Museum dedicated to Tunnel Warfare up in An Tay in III Corps. It should be completed very soon. They started working on it in 2012 and still in Feb 2014 when when I was there. There is a huge Tower they built at it and you can see the Ho Bo’s, triangle, Boi loi’s Cu chi, Tay Ninh & of course the Black Virgin from it.
One thing that I noticed the last 2 of my 4 trips back (08, 10, 12 & 14) that Muslims are buying a tremendous amount of property and opening many business in Saigon. They better get ready!!! “BOOM”
Also they “TREAT VIETNAM COMBAT VETERANS BETTER OVER THERE THEN THEY DO HERE!!!!)
Norman “Butch” Petit Squad Ldr, Tunnel Rat & Pointman…
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Thank you Brother! If you have any pictures to share from the tunnels or if you want to write a guest post about 1/5th, please get back to me. john.podlaski@gmail.com
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Fascinating article, and I look forward to reading Cherries. I graduated high school in ’67 and went straight to college and really wasn’t all that aware at the time of what was going on in Vietnam. I wish I had been. We did have a large number of classmates from high school who never returned from Vietnam, and a number now who are suffering the effects of what went on there. So now it’s interesting to delve into what happened and why, and your list of Myths and Facts above has helped tremendously. We have a lot of veterans in my town (Salisbury, NC) and a VA Hospital and cemetery with a Patriot Guard that rides for all the burials. I was finally able to go to a service there last year, and while not for a Vietnam veteran, (he was in WWII) I was so very impressed and humbled by the proceedings and gained even more respect for those who fought for us. Recently there was a service here for the unclaimed cremains of 15 veterans, and they were given burial with full honors at our National Cemetery. (http://www.salisburypost.com/article/20140615/SP01/140619807/) There were 300 people there to pay their respects.
Anyway, I’m interested in learning more truth about what went on in Vietnam (My brother served but NEVER mentions that time in his life. To this day I don’t know why, but something must have affected him deeply. He was a navigator in the Air Force, but I’m not sure of the years he served.)
Thank you so much for your service and for your hard work in putting all this information together. Whenever I’m out somewhere and see a man with a jacket with patches on it and a Vietnam Vet cap, I always go and speak to him. Their acknowledgement of my attention doesn’t hide the sadness and pain that I often see in their eyes.
I will be following you.
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Thank you so much Carol. I hope that after reading “Cherries”, you will have a better understanding of what those soldiers had to endure during their tour of duty and why they still carry that burden with them today.
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I served TWO combat tours as a photogrpaher/journlaist covering ground operations in Vietnam. I have studied the war for 30 years, and a friend sent me your article “Dispelling the Myths” which is absolutely FRAUGHT with errors about who served, their age, background, equipment, the VC/NVA, the Domino theory, Indonesia, and weapons used by 11B10s, ARVN, ARVN Rangers, not to mention tactics aned politics. My book, NIGHT FLARES: Six Tales of the Vietnam war, combines 6 eye-witness stories of the war, together with a detailed statement of a Tour of Duty, AND, a 27 page accurate Chronology of every major battle, political, and social movement of the times, and what the men who servesd there endured. By the way, “The Cherries” is short for “Chery Boy, Number 10” a term of derision for Newbys, Cherry Boys and REMFs, from the Replacement Battalions. If the author of “Dispelling Myths” would like to step forward, and give us the sources for his INCOMPETENT ravings, I would, I would be happy to direct him/her to the EXACT sources about the war. I would also “slap him up side the head” for lying to Americans. My book tells the truth (Amazon and Kobobooks.com) Shame on him, and you for printing more stupidity about the war.
I’m waiting for your reply.
Robert M. Pacholik
Two tour combat photo Veteran (1968-9169)
MA, in International Affairs, and 15 years of university level teaching, about US History and Vietnam.
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oh I’m sure he’ll be here directly. 🙂
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I’m a Gold Star Sister. My brother served with C/4/503 173rd ABN when he was KIA 1-14-67 during Operation Cedar Falls. His name is Lonnie A. Floyd.
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Was with the 159th Dustoff in Cu Chi im 68. Reading your paper brings back memories. I like the blog. Thanks.
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Very interesting, this is information everyone should st least be familiar with. As a vet I feel the more people know about the horrors of war the more reluctant they would be to become involved in conflicts.
Great work, thank you.
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I am always interested in our history. Whether good or bad.
It is history, who knows, maybe I can learn something new!
Thanks
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I have been following it from the start,keep up the god work.
semper fi 60-64 u.s. army 68-73
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I was to young to join up during the view Nam war graduating high school in 1974. But I grew up with that war and fullc respect the view Nam vet and all soldiers fighting to protect our freedom and I want to hear their stories out of respect.
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Relived some nam memories while reading Cherries”
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James, Thank you for reading Cherries – I hope you enjoyed my story!
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I served in vietnam in 1970 lima company 3rd battalion 5th marines. I came back to the world extremely proud of being a combat marinesurvive numerous patrols and ambushes. My mEmory of coming home was one of loneliness. I could not talk to my family about nam and none of my friends were around. I was never spit on but I Remer this incident as if it happened today.
I was a tinned at Paris island after nam.I was walking in buford in my uniform. A pick up went by and someone in the truck threw a beer bottle at me.
After that I never wore my uniform in public agin
The anger and resentment has b r end constantly present for the past 44 y ears
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I loved the quotes!!!
Vietnam 66-67
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great article you might wish to look at this site to find pictures, most combat photographers love to help
http://221stsignalcompany.webplus.net
best Lew
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Reblogged this on 67bulletholes and commented:
Great story!
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Children in our wire. I understand your pain and will live with the guilt til I die…
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Tay Ning 1969. I’m so sorry for killing the little boy in the fire fight. I’ll never forget you, and
I’ll never forgive myself!
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My brother is a Vietnam vet and he still will not talk about his time over there.
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retired after 24 yrs in the army. that was my hell on earth.
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1st Cav 8th Engr 68/69.. Excellent site and will do the book.
Later
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Good novel. Really enjoyed it. Thanks.
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I was a pilot with 1st Cav(68-69) so I had a different perspective of the war. I have a tremendous respect for all grunts. Never had any desire to change places. Your book gives me an accurate way of seeing what you guys went through. Thanks for your service and for the book.
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Thank you Dick for reading Cherries! Can I impose upon you to leave a rating and your thoughts about the book on Amazon. I would be extremely grateful. Here’s the direct link: http://www.amazon.com/Cherries-Vietnam-Novel-John-Podlaski-ebook/dp/B003R4Z5U6/ref=sr_1_1
On Sun, Feb 15, 2015 at 3:46 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Very useful. Increases my empathy and admiration for all troops.
– Lise A.
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You told it exactly as it was!! I spent 2 years in nam
68-69, went straight back 70-71. Brother, I grew up quick. When I got back they were calling us baby killers, I had to take off my uniform and lie telling everyone I never went
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I thoroughly loved this article. I am writing a college research paper on the Spectre Unit. My grandfather was Major Gerald “Gerry” Harris. We lost him November 1, 2001 and I wanted to get to know him and his fellow brothers in arms better. I just hope that I am able to honor him and his fellow aviators and make them proud. Because I am proud, just to be his granddaughter. Thank you for writing this article, its just what i was looking for.
Miss you Grandfather
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Enjoyed the article. My return from Iraq, 2004 (A-Trp, 1/124th Cav, 36th ID, TXARNG) was a night and day experience of my return from Vietnam, 1969 (C-Trp, 1/11th ACR). As a side note, the Vietnam Veterans, during the Veteran’s Parade, always get the biggest applause here in Waco, Texas.
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Always nice to see new things that are going on for the vets. I was navy mobile riverine force Vietnam 68 69
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Great article. Good website. Thanks. Phil Jennings (Nam-A-Rama and The Politically Incorrect Guide to the Vietnam War). Keep up the good work.
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Good article. I didn’t know all the facts. Thanks
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Interesting article. I never heard the true story.
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That is one well written article. Everyone who was not in Nam would not know all the hidden things such as children with grenades strapped to their bodies just to kill one or more Americans as they blew themselves up, or the on base workers who designated targets for the VC. I survived the TET in 1968 but many of my fellow military brothers and sisters did not.
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Although I served 1969 TILL 1991 REAL Veitnam WAR Veterans don’t consider me a WAR veteran. I’ve never had any problem with that. Sooo there should be a choice for veterans of no war.
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Wm Harrel I am considered a Cold War vet, USAF 1956-60 and MNANG 1973-91.
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It was great reading about everyones experience, haven’t read the book but now I can’t wait to get it, served with the 92nd engineers in long bien, bien hoa province in 71.
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I’ve been wanting Jim Webb to run for President for 10 years. Glàd he threw his hat into the ring. Has my support. I know he’s no Donald Trump, but I ve overlooked this shortcoming.
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Great article, well written and highly informative!
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As I began my reading, I noticed the pleasant descriptive element, which drew me in..as a fluttering moth, to the enticing flame. The story initials the set-up, as if to give us an overview for what, when, where, & how which gave me the tone pursuant of a Five Paragraph Order…SMEAC..Letting the reader set up, in his own mind, what, he, or she will get in this story package…The beginning did a job, to grab you by the collar..to almost, make you wish to pursue the following of words, to get a better understanding of what is to unfold…I enjoyed the indepth descriptions..as to make the characters as close to your Brothers, back on the block..the quiet ones..the close friends. The new guy..the lines on their faces, speaking a lingo, grunts eating chow..the awe, when the Enemy spoke better educated English, than what is expected..of : The Dumb Enemy..He Was Well educated, with an Honored degree..In short..This is a Very Professional piece of narrative work…reminds me of – a basic, Duality Of Man…The Horror of War..the brutal execution of man, By man…with a swirling turn..mixed in..with Another game..War..Baseball..with a moral of the story bent towards..A Time To Forget of Tomorrow..and The inevitable Day Of Death..with a lull, of untimely..unlikely Purgatory..game of baseball…While The Grim Reaper sits by his sling blade..waiting a bit longer..until, all the balls…excuses..have run dry..then the men wearingly return to their side..waiting to kill, or be killed…The Angels Of Death fly with precision, dropping the dreaded tonage of exploding death..
Puff fiddling the earth to resemble ribbony foilage, blended with earth..blood..bones..A Magic Dragon..whose mystical darts of steel, find their targets…by chance..& circumstance…ending with, losing the game of recreational interlude..but, bringing in coy play..and showing our trump card…Melt Them….We Win..
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Nicely said, Patrick! Thanks for the commentary!
On Sun, Oct 25, 2015 at 1:47 AM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Great article memories we can’t forget what happened when we were just young men (kids) triing to stay alive so we could go home 72-74 101st airborne 426 s*s btl bravo company 1st platoon 64charly 20 company commander driver and duce any half and 5ton driver
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Great article. Brought back many memories from my time on point with the 1/26 and 1/28 1 Inf Div.
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Well written grunt
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Thank you, Bob!
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I never played baseball in that valley. But I did fight NVA. I don’t believe this tale.
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Nice writing ! I Appreciate the facts , Does anyone know if my assistant might find a sample IRS 1040 – Schedule E version to fill out ?
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One can only partly imagine what went thru ur mind during this time! I’m sure u still have vivid recollection of most of the boys/men who u became reliant on and fought with! I’m sure, at the very least, bitttersweet! Thanks for ur candor, ur insight and mostly ur service! Proud to call u my friend!
Ronnie
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This was very moving
Welcome Home
Your friend and all brothers that
Fought for this great country
Rip
Vietnam 68-69
Dong Tam
ASA 335th Radio Reaearch Co.
9th Div.
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A story that has been repeated way to often. However, has brought closer and comfort to many. Something I always wanted to do for my best Nam Buddy Todd R. Jackson KIA TET Shoot Out 30JAN1968.
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I can really relate to this article. I was with the 25th Infantry Division 4th of the 9th.The manchus. I was there 69-70. My medic friend doc Shattuck was killed with some other guys. I always think of him. Frozen in time is his face at 19. He was a great guy. Survivor guilt, and ptsd I have. Beautiful great story. God bless.
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Great I like the story about the storm
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My speech is on Youtube.
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Tom, How about supplying the link.
On Sun, May 1, 2016 at 3:39 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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My pleasure!! “The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation, Veterans Day 2013” and “Inside the Reagan Library–the Heroes Gallery”
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Maybe i can help. I did a speaking engagement at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation for Veterans’ Day 2013. I start speaking about twenty minutes into the program, including about how long we Vietnam Veterans waited to be thanked for our service. It’s on You tube. If even one of us gets closure because of this speech, my job will be done. Welcome back to the love of your families, the esteem of your peers, the ultimate gratitude of the nation that we did our best to serve. God bless you all.–Tom Reilly
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Ralph Chapman, I served in Vietnam from May 1967-1968. My unit started out in Cam Rahn Bay and moved to Dong Ha/Quaig Tre My second ture was wth the 23 Inf from Nov 1970-1971. I enjoyed to pictures very much. they brought back a lot of good memories. Thanks for the memories.
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Good article. He is wrong about those farther south dealing mostly with VC. We faced off with some very solid NVA units (7th NVA Div), as well as main force VC. Tough enemy forces. Again, great article.
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Awesome and very informative. Thank you!!!
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To the book’s author: Does the name Celosky mean anything to you?
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No, I’m sorry, it doesn’t, Chuck.
On Sun, Jan 31, 2016 at 10:57 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Very interesting. My brother is a Vietnam vet and never spoke much about it until the last few years. My husband and I are lucky enough to travel a lot, and last year we did a trip to Southeast Asia which included visiting the Cu chi tunnels. I had wanted to go to Vietnam just to see the area and get a sense of where my brother had been. Going into the tunnels was indeed an incredible experience, and well worth the time. The exhibits explaining the booby traps mentioned in your article were horrific. I was spellbound learning how ingenious the Vietcong were in designing their complex web of tunnels throughout the jungle. Absolutely amazing. Thank you and all of the brave men for sharing your experiences and fighting for our country’s honor and freedoms!
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I have total respect for these mem. Spent a year in Vietnam and, at the time, never realized what courage this took. Thank God for Americans like you. I know it has affected the rest of your life. I hope to be able to meet and thank many of you at the next reunion. Thank you for having the guts that you do.
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I was with the 25th Infantry Division ,4th of the 9th Manchu.69-70. The end of my tour was that CU CHI.
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LOVE the site….my Uncle was with 25th Infantry 1/5th Mech in Cu Chi April 66-67
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Well written. I read a book called “Sniper” nearly three decades ago about the career of Carlos Hathcock.
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Thank you. My dad flew medevac for the 45th.
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Excellent. I was a Dustoff medic in Vietnam Oct 67-68. I deployed to Nam with the 50th Med Det (Hel-Amb) in October 67. We were initially at the 91st Evac Hospital at Tuy Hoa. In the Spring of 1968 we moved to I Corp, Camp Eagle near Phu Bai…just south of Hue. When the 101st Abn became an Airmobile Division, we became Eagle Dustoff in the 101st Abn Div.
I attnd the Dustoff Assoc. reunion most every year. Neal Stanley nastanley@aol.com
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Thank you, Brother!
On Fri, Feb 26, 2016 at 1:08 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Thank you so much for this article. I am the daughter of a Hotel 2/5 Marine. My father, John F Wade passed away so I cannot ask him questions about his experiences. Articles such as this one help me to understand what he went through in Vietnam. Thank you so much
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Sorry for your loss, Bonnie. I hope you find other articles on this website to help you better understand what happened to us during that war. Thank you for leaving a response!
On Tue, Mar 1, 2016 at 3:27 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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excellent
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Mr. Clark, thank you for your comment. You are correct that in addition to the ARVN and Marines fighting against an estimated 14 battalions of enemy soldiers, the 1st and 3d Brigades, 1st Cavalry Division, and the 2d Brigade, 101st Airborne Division also participated in the battle for Hue during the 1968 Tet Offensive.
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when the battle for Hue is discussed. People are under the impression that the marines and arvn’s were the only unit’s fighting the nva. However there army unit’s also involved. Please list these unit’s.
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What an Awesome article …. and with some Awesome photos as well ! Thanx for sharing !
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Bet ya just love Jane Fonda too
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Hey brother, what’s the reason for your statement? It’s a hell of a statement to make to a Vietnam Vet, I’d just like to know what prompted it.
On Tue, May 24, 2016 at 5:38 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Sad, as always with these sort of things. Looking back I have now a great deal of admiration for the NVA and VC. The losses and hardship for them cannot be understood by any American citizen.
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Great
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What an eye opener! I’m glad I learned something.
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Its very interesting to read the views of our one time enemy.
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In the end we were all soldiers and will carry our war with us forever. We should have negotiated a unified country with the north but fear of communism caused us to turn on a WW II ally. I don’t know the answer I just lived the problem.
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these were good people to know hard warker and lolal
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I like your article on this I met them outside of Dong Ha they talked with our interpreter and gave us info on the nva near the sahn during lam son 719 they are very quiet and very loyal people
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Very enlightening
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Thank you for the kind words, Peter.
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As someone who has never set foot in Vietnam and can only imagine the horrors that went on there, I was in the British army in the middle east, I found your account of the war there very enlightening. Thank you, will pass this on.
Peter Waters (ex Military Police)
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I love this article and would love to hear more stories from the other side. Ho Chi Min was screwed by America that is a fact. He offered to help fight the Japanese and was pushed aside. I am a war buff/ military. The best book I ever read about war was, “Soldat.” A German officer side during WWII.
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Very well done and informative…thanks you.
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There is some discrepancy in the figures and anaysis. The writting follows what is commonly known and accurately portrays the First Tet. The number of wounded appears light, but is difficult to determine from published info. The numbers of Main Force VC, Local VC, and NVA is difficult to judge even from their own documentation, however, the increase in Force Levels increased through out the War. As the Ho Chi Minh trail improved so did the movement of units. There were over a Million personnel on trail duty alone. The US consistantly underestimated opposing numbers. The real numbers made progress questionable. Hence Force Levels for Tet. For me it was obvious that opposing forces were increasing due to areas no longer accessible or more heavily contested. As we withdrew troops the NVA filled in the void. If you look at the North’s Order of Battle the growth of strength becomes apparent. We fought most battles with smaller units than were practical. We fielded companies against battalions and battalions against regiments throughout the war. Much as we have done in Afghanistan. The war never had a plan and political persons in the form of aids and assistant staffers on the civilian side interferred with military planning and operations. In short they sabotaged the the effectiveness of units to operate safely and rationally. The airwar side is the perfect example. Inbound routes were mandated by civilian policy and targets were picked in Washington by said staffers. Under these conditions the war was unwinable.
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I heard of instances where there were Caucasian individuals who fought with the NVA/Viet Cong in II Corps region in 68-69. One interesting fact, and old SF friend, a medic and sole survivor of an ambush, was faking being dead when a Caucasian walked up, took his watch and then spoke to him in everyday English. He said,” you’ll be okay, babe, your people are on the way, but I need your watch.” He left with the bad guys.
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Excellent and very informative.
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Outstanding and frank. Nguyen is honest and also mentions atrocities by his own side.
His experiences are both revelations and myth busters. At the same time, his experience underscores the universality of the horrors of war for all parties involved, regardless of what side.
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Terrified youngsters both sides.Stupid war screwed up governments.Greed lies!
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I find it amazing that we had so much in common with the American soldiers, I was a “grunt” in the South African Army pre ’94 and whilst conditions on the Namibian/Angolan border was a dry heat, compared to the South East Asia. We suffered the same hardships on patrol. The boredom of ambushes and the terrifying consequences of a “contact”. The adrenialine that pumped through our veins was no different to any other soldier in the jungle. The bonds of friendships cannot be explained to those who have never been in the military.
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You are correct, my brother…if you haven’t served – you’ll never understand! Thanks for the commentary!
On Wed, Jun 29, 2016 at 8:03 AM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Thank you John for keeping the memories honored and the great work on your part is much appreciated. 173rd ABN 70-71 Binh Dinh
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Very informative, more detailed than the many many books I have read. Thank you
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Very good and honest
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Very well written personal fact based dialog that, as a VV, grabbed my attention to my core. I truly appreciate the effort you have expended to bring a moment of the life of a “straight leg grunt” in that War. I was deemed fortunate to have been a “REM”. However, I am proud of my service. Thanks for the memories BRO!
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Thank you for your service! Welcome Home, Wilfredo!
On Wed, Jul 13, 2016 at 6:27 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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What a great realistic review of the Vietnam Infantryman’s life in Vietnam! I was in the 25th Infantry and finished my tour in the 1st Air Calvary in Vietnam.
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Thank you, Bob! Welcome Home Brother!
On Wed, Jul 13, 2016 at 7:46 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Great job, brother! Welcome home. Brought back a lot of memories I had left behind. I arrived 26 July, 1967, was assigned to first squad, Lima platoon, Alpha Co. of the 1/28th ( Blacklions) of the First Inf Division. Filled every position and carried all the weapons over my tour. Even carried an AK and a 1911 Thompson for awhile. Worked my way up to squad leader and made Buck Sgt before I went home. Scared-est ever was during Tet and doing an online assault through a village full of NVA. Had a couple guys in the platoon hit, and could not stop to help. True it was a year of alternating boredom and terror. Also a year that shaped the way I lived my life afterward. Went into Law enforcement and EMS to help others and have no regrets.
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I am quite familiar with your struggles, I flew dustoff on my first tour in third and second corps for a total of 1000 hours and carried many fine young grunts. I may have taken you to the 93rd evac, I covered the Chui and Tay Ning area. Enjoyed the article.
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Outstanding article, well written and very accurate. Well done
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Superb! I was a signal officer that provided commo from Bde hq back to div during operations during my 27 months with the 1st and Americal divisions. Also did a little high frequency prediction work to establish comm with guys across the border. My closest grunt experience was during ambush patrols that MG Depuy required of every swinging richard. The I and III Corps pics look familar. My hat’s off to all you grunts and I hope that my support provided some help to you.
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Spot on.Very accurate. Serving in II corp, i got to see about terrain there was to see and fight VC and hardcore NVA. I remember my first day in the field,i had filled sandbags ( remember that )? Anyway, i had a terrible sunburn from not wearing a shirt which was a grave error. On our first break, off came the ruck with most of my dead skin.This was the occasion ofmy first firefight in which several VCwere wounded and we followed the blood trails which were very profuse bleeding, but we never caught them even though we chased them for about ten clicks. Lasted til way up in the late evening and we got back into camp about sundown. Therefore we didnt have time to dig foxholes and barely had time to set up the perimeter. After carring all that equipment to the tune of eighty five pounds, i was a wiped out grunt.
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Thank you, Lloyd, I do appreciate your feedback. A year of being more tired than not! Take care, bro! Welcome Home!
On Sat, Jul 16, 2016 at 1:22 AM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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I like it. You told it like it was. I was in I Corps with 3/5 Mike and Kilo 1st Mar Div from 69 to 71. Hospital Corpsman, I carried both 45 and 16, needed badly to keep the integrity of the fire power when needed. Great job on the article, brought back alot of memories,good and bad ,thanks!!
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To the point and wonderfully written. I walked through the words thinking where I was, who I am and where I am now. What it could’ve been but wasn’t.
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You ha c e said exactly what I couldn’t say. THANK YOU, a Vietnam Vet who spent two tours in Thailand.
Wel come home, Brother.
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Well said, I have the memories but can’t put them in words,
Thank You
MICHAEL MCGREGOR
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Very thoughtful & accurate ….
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Thank you for your service! I cannot imagine the hell you men experienced. But I can certainly admire your determination to see the job through! God bless you all.
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I enjoyed the article. I had just lost a friend during the Tet offensive and really didn’t care about a Cong member getting shot.
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“What’s wrong?
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Vary good
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Outstanding reading material in each post that I receive. I jumped on that free offer of “Cherries” and lucked out by receiving one. Thank you, sir. I’ve written before of my dad being a WW II vet; however, he never spoke of his experiences in the Army. I enlisted in my beloved Marine Corps in June 1966, served at MCAS Cherry Point, then in WestPac (Vietnam). Returned to CONUS and unfortunately, because I was married and had my first daughter while en route overseas, I was given an ultimatum by my wife, stay in the Corps & you go on without us, so I left in Dec 1969. As I previously stated, I thoroughly enjoy reading the material you post. To me it’s a healing, somewhat cathartic, I suppose. So, thank you for this helpful blog.
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Thank you, sir! I do appreciate your kind words and hope you enjoy my story! You might find out that my story may not be so much different than yours as we shared much common ground. Thank you for your service and welcome home!
On Thu, Aug 25, 2016 at 12:51 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Amazing story of the reaction we received from our enemy and the village civilians.
If only the powers that were then in charge of operations and wrote the rules we had to follow it would have been different.
We Marines never lost a battle, but yet our hands were tide for the most part and we couldn’t go to where the North were staging and safe from our attacks.
I’m glad you made it home to safety and alive at that. God Bless you.
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Needs to be proof read – spelling errors but to real what happened to so many pilots it wasn’t anything we would want for another. insanity of war and hate peace & a clear mind
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John you do your brothers proud by this site GBY
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Thank you, sir!
On Fri, Sep 16, 2016 at 6:14 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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I’m 100% Disabled Viet Nam Veteran (PTSD). I’m drawn to such articles, drawn back into the Viet Nam experience. Not by choice, by what is PTSD. It is the Hell I have dealt with since April 1st 1967 the day I arrived in Viet Nam.
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Amazing blog about the Vietnam tunnel rats
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Thanks for sharing your stories. Dad, B17 pilot WW2, said “Our volunteer (or drafted) citizen soldier is the strength of America. Fight, come home, lay down your weapons, and go off to work to support your family.” When he died, I knew I would visit vets when I retired. Been doing that 3 yrs…Dad was right, you guys are the heroes of our country. Thank you all.
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Thank you ladies!
I was never ‘injured’ in ‘Nam, but you still helped me… Smiling/chatting with me while flying on C-130s around the country, or when I was back at Camp Esgle (my ‘hootch’) was 200 meters from MEDEVAC pad…… We’d cross paths now and then (101st Airborne/Airmobile 70-71)
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Informative I heard her once but din’t know much about her.
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Good job. I was a medic with Dustoff 70-71
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Great story! Like to find more about this!
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As a Viet Nam. Vet thank you for true and well written stories.
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very informative. Our family just came from a funeral where we saw coins on a tombstone.
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Can’t beat first hand history, thank you for your service
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It’s great !!!
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A true hero who gave all he could to save his comrades.
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I was a huey Crewchief. We all had some of the same thoughts and feelings. We were flying targets. I always thought you guys were heroes. I have friends who were grunts.They call us God’s own lunatics.
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I have really enjoyed the reading all the stories. Being a Vietnam Vet. 66-67 Chu Lai. I have asked around and hope you can answer something for me and a Marine Buddy of mine asked me the other day. This is not meant derogatory or racist in any manner but We remembered in Book Camp MCRD Parris Island, some of the D.I.’s referred to the Black recruits as “SPLIB’S. Do you or anyone reading your Blog know what it means,stands for.or in what aspect was/is it used back then????
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Back in the day people were searching for their identity of different colors. Lots of folks fell into slang words for different people. When your tight your tight there are limits and how you go about approaching a fellow Marine back in the day, depending on what your MOS was. When your life depended on other brothers no matter what color or religion or race you learn how to keep things casual while you’re in battle depending on each other and when the s*** hit the fan was over you’re so full of adrenaline anything might be said. But remember we’re all Marines if you can’t handle the heat get the hell out of the kitchen. Thanks for your time, Semper Fi #frog 2/1 Gulf 0311
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Thanks, but really did not need a lesson about back in the day, and have no idea what MOS (0811 Primary) has to do with this question.I think I qualified my question had nothing to do with race, and do not need to be reminded we are all brothers and Marines. Have been in more than one kitchen. Thanks for the comments,I am enjoying the different views. Semper Fidelis
Looks like pdoggbiker has it nailed.
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Here’s what Urban dictionary has to say that most folk agree with: Top Definition
splib
In the mid 60’s, while in the Marine Corps, the term splib was used commonly among black and white marines. It was not used in a pejorative way by either blacks or whites but as a “hip”, descriptive way of identifying a person, usually a male, of the negro race, such as in the phrase “splib dude”. Likewise the descriptive and non-pejorative term “chuck” was used to describe a white person, however it was also used to describe the Viet Cong (VC), such as in “Victor Charlie”, “Charlie” or just “Chuck” In fact, one might get vanilla or chocolate creme filled cookies that were included in the field “C” rations. These were commonly referred to as “chuck” or “splib” cookies.
The corporal is that splib dude
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Thanks pdoggbiker, just needed that jog in the old Brain housing.I’ll remind my buddy and I’m sure he will connect it also. I have read you Slang blog and again brought back some funny and enjoyable hoots from inside the “strong backs” at nights after all day on the guns.Great blogs, keep ’em coming. Semper Fidelis.
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Very interesting piece of history !
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Really good. Great detail I learned a lot
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Hey pdoggbiker, was I shocked last month when a visit to Parris Island was way overdue and had a great time. Two thing that were hard to look at were #1. The last of the old 1st Bat. Bks. was gone. I think they were field dayed so many times they just turned into dust.LOL ,I still remember after 50 years all the ecoes and footsteps up and down the ladderway’s And who can ever forget the smells? of trash cans(shit cans) rolling down the squad bay @0400? #2. I guess most disturbing was the visit past third Bat. to the Range and out to my old line, (B Line).But then I had to rub my still 20/20 eyes in disbelief. Recruits with M16 rifle’s and sitting on top were ACOG scoped sights.Somebody catch me I’m falling!!!!!I know they are used now in training and combat but to qualify on anything but Iron Sights??? Come-on those things do malfunction when the batteries get low, or some numbnuts forgets to install them, just to name a couple things that could FUBAR. I’m sure this came down from Weapons Bat. or higher when these old farts want to still shoot Expert or Sharpshooter on their yearly qualifying, and they can’t hold the weapon that far out in front of them to see the front sight. But really learning to shoot in the Black @ 500 yards without a $700.00 scope should still be basic and mandatory. Semper Fi I know you were Army, but I’m sure you can relate and the Marines on your Blog surely will.
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Thanks Fiftycaliber! I can relate about the sights…and the barracks. In the mid-80’s, I took my family to Fort Knox to revisit where I went to basic. There was NOBODY doing anything. I anticipated showing my family the fields of soldiers marching, doing PT or firing on the range, and seeing the old barracks. Well, we finally found a platoon of soldiers sitting in an outdoor classroom and had to dodge tanks on the back roads (Ft. Knox is an armor training center) but what broke my heart was that I couldn’t locate my old training battalion. We finally stopped at the museum and walked around…maybe a dozen of us in total…and I asked the employee about the location of my past training area. When he responded that they were condemned and torn down in the late 70’s – what a let down! For the first time, I felt OLD. I guess the visit was cool as my daughter got off on seeing all the tanks rolling around and firing and seeing the gold vault from the James Bond movie “Goldfinger”. Semper fi bro!
On Mon, Dec 19, 2016 at 11:25 AM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Roger that, OOH – RAH
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Someone asked about the tanks and other equipment I had served on. When I told them they told me the equipment was now in museums. Talk about feeling old!
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Awww but if time goes backwards you will be the pro. You can educate the young people about how to operate the tanks and equipment. Very cool, George. Your experience would be great if it was a voice teaching about those machines. 👍
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Hey pdoggbiker, was I shocked last month when a visit to Parris Island was way overdue and had a great time. Two things that were hard to look at were #1. The last of the old 1st Bat. Bks. was gone. I think they were field dayed so many times they just turned into dust.LOL ,I still remember after 50 years all the ecoes and footsteps up and down the ladderway’s And who can ever forget the smells? of trash cans(shit cans) rolling down the squad bay @0400? #2. I guess most disturbing was the visit past third Bat. to the Range and out to my old line, (B Line).But then I had to rub my still 20/20 eyes in disbelief. Recruits with M16 rifle’s and sitting on top were ACOG scoped sights.Somebody catch me I’m falling!!!!!I know they are used now in training and combat but to qualify on anything but Iron Sights??? Come-on those things do malfunction when the batteries get low, or some numbnuts forgets to install them, just to name a couple things that could FUBAR. I’m sure this came down from Weapons Bat. or higher when these old farts want to still shoot Expert or Sharpshooter on their yearly qualifying, and they can’t hold the weapon that far out in front of them to see the front sight. But really learning to shoot in the Black @ 500 yards without a $700.00 scope should still be basic and mandatory. Semper Fi I know you were Army, but I’m sure you can relate and the Marines on your Blog surely will.
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Interesting website, sir.
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I am a Veteran of the first Gulf war, however, my interest has always been in the Vietnam War.
My brother was KIA there on 3 April 1968. I have researched to the best of my ability any facts good or bad in that conflict as a coping mechanism.
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Prayers out to you and your family for the loss of your Brother. I hope he had fare winds and following sea’s on he way to see his maker.I returned home about a year before his KIA date. What Service was he with. Semper Fi
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I found your site while doing a little recon for MACV/SOG MATERIAL. Was Hathcock MS due to Agent Orange exposure ?
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To the best of my knowledge it was never established if (his) MS was caused by AO. or later cases were either. We were there about the same dates/places and knew of him but we never crossed scopes.He died of MS before the Govt. made it presumptive and it was Servicemen’s/Women responsibility to prove the illness you had want due to contact with the defoliant. Later,as with me when I developed Ischemic Heart Disease, it was turned around, and the Govt. had the responsibility to determine that the AO did not contribute to one of a list of approved diseases.I think it was about 11 of them that the Govt. said if you have it and were in these area’s they approved your Disability. Gunny Hathcock’s family may at a later date tried to resubmit once the Govt. rotated the presumption was on them or the Service member. Think I’ll do a little more research now. You shock up my Brain Housing group enough to get me searching. Semper Fi.
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Right on Brother. Agent orange did a number on me. Prostate cancer, it was presumed to cause that. They gave me 100% with out question!
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Sorry to hear about your Prostate cancer Bro, How’s it going? responsive to treatment, I pray. I can’t even count how many men I have known with it. Best of luck to ya. Semper Fi We need the rest of us guy’s on here to keep V.S. Cranford in our thoughts and prayers. OOH RAH
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This is my first mission to this site. I am extremely glad this site is here with all the content. I will never be able to digest it all but most of if has rattled around in my brain at one time or another for the past 49 almost 50 years. Welcome Home Brothers and Sisters.
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I have found it does a lot of good to talk to people of our same ages. God knows you can’t talk to Kids now a days, and the one’s in their 20’s and 30’s, they don’t even know how to talk to themselves. LOL Got together with one of my best friends today for lunch and we were talking about that same subject. I had been doing some work on a old japanese rifle his Father in law brought back from Okinawa. He was in the Corps but got out after he came back from Nam on original 2 year enlistment. I think he forgot which end of the rifle to put the patch down. LOL .He has never shot it, but I think we are taking it to the range next week.He is scared to fire it I think.Sorry to drift off there but we have known each other since Cub Scouts if anyone still remembers them. We talk about everything from Obama to Trump and B B Netanyahu to the Pope. Nam is brought up some times but nothing heavy. Just great to have someone to shoot the Bull with every couple of weeks. Good luck, hope you enjoy this blog, I sure do and have only been on here a few weeks myself. Semper Fi Gentlemen and Ladies. Keep em’ in the 10 ring.
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Thank you for this article… It gives us insite into the scarfices others have made for the life we have.. let us not forget!!!
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HAPPY NEW YEAR To All
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Back atcha Bro!
On Sun, Jan 1, 2017 at 12:39 AM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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I hated the war, but will always love our warriors. Sat Cong!
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Roger That!!! Tango Romeo…..Curse the War not the Warrior.
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Knowling Hill 875 was the highlight of battle of dak to. Remember the heat battle started on Hill 823 Initial preparations started at Ben Her.CIDG outpost.
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Very interesting. Although I was never in country, i still have the utmost respect for the Vietnam Veteran. I built a 2002 Harley Electra Glide as a tribute to the POW/MIA Vietnam Veteran. This bike has 29 murial painted on it along with 5 grenades, 2 .45 cal guns, a pilots survival k-bar and much more. If interested in seeing it, i can send you some pics.
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See if you can post a couple of photos with your comment above. / John
On Wed, Jan 4, 2017 at 8:07 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Would like to see those pic’s of the Harley also…
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At 92 yrs and wounded medic of WW2, the photos reviewed a
Memory not cherished. Why can’t we live in peace? Life can be
a struggle on it’s own without complicating it with warfare.
What can we do collectively to promote world peace ? I would
help any efforts!!!
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First Mr. Ash, Thank You for your service not only to your country, but the service,aid and comfort you gave to your Band of Brothers you served with, and at 92 years of age, your fellow man.
That said, if @ 92 you do not know the answer to your question, I think anyone will continue searching.If we were to start with Cain & Able looking for the answer of why we go to war, I do not think we can come up with the answer.There are plenty of excuses,causes, and people to blame. But no real answer. I mean we can say greed, power, and a host of other reasons, but none that will satisfy the ages old question you pose. What a Miracle it would be if someone knew that answer. I think as far as myself, I will have to wait and ask a higher power, because I fear the answer you are looking for can not be answered here on earth.
GOD bless you sir and may you continue to “Live Long & Prosper”
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2nd post, 1st post was either lost in the shuffle or I didn’the properly post it too your question.
As a Vietnam era Marine1968 1970 I’m sure at one time or another every combat veteran asked this same question.
Myself, I stay locked and loaded. I pray to my higher power Jesus Christ too make our Country strong enough too indour any threats. I also recommend supporting our new president-elect Donald Trump. Alooking don’the worry about it, as God himself say’s in the Bible King James version when he returns again to Earth in Armageddon He will split the World into Evil do’ers and Holy people and for 1000 yrs. There will be Peace on Earth.
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Thanks Mike and Fiftycaliber! Your responses are better than anything I could have put together. God Bless Brothers!
On Fri, Jan 6, 2017 at 7:36 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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My Dad died 26 days before his 91st birthday in 2013.He was WWII, 82nd. Airborne, jumped in Holland on D-Day. Was at peace with his GOD, and ready to go. Anyone part of that Greatest Generation, should get all the respect.
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Corpman Don Ash;
Like the rest of us Veterans we all ask this same question at one time or another. My advice to you sir as a former Vietnam era Marine 1968-1970 is stay Lock and Loaded, Pray too your God, Support our new President Elect Donald Trump, and don’t worry about it. Let God himself deal with it at Armageddon…
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Sounds like we both had some good idea’s for Mr. Ash, but Mike just wanted to remind you In the ARMY they are MEDIC’s, not Corpsmen. But after all those years surprised most of us remember our Serv. #’s , or was the Corps using Soc. Sec.#’s by then ?You say you were V.N. era, did you ever make it over to Nam? If so when,where,and with what unit? Semper Fi Brother
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2nd Battalion 1st Marine Division @20 miles southeast of Danang, and Marble Mountain. we were all over the place 30 days at a time. we never lost any major battles with the NVA, or VC but we lost a few of our brothers WIA, and KIA. God Bless the Marine Corp, All who gave it all and the few who are here but not Home from that war yet. Semper Fi Devil Dogs, Mud Soldiers and you Squids who put up with us in Combat. Especially our Corpsman “Daddy Rabbit”
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Great article. I was stationed at NAS Alameda. The treatment we endured from the San Francisco Bay Area, especially Berkley, was horrible. Thank Admiral Zumwalt for allowing us to travel out of uniform.
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I find that these articles great . I was with the 23 Artillery in Flu Loi in 1967 to 1968 and some times did know what was going on in country only in my area. The only thing that was said was pack up and move out to another area
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I am a former Marine and was assigned to the 1st Marine Division 2nd Battalion 25 miles southeast of Danang and Marble Mountain from 1968 – 1970 as a Grunt Rifle team Squad Leader. We as a platoon of Gulf Company were involved in some major battles with the NVA and VC moving south east from Cambodia trying to get to Saigon. Most never made it. As You and your Brothers were further south with Artillery doing pretty much the same thing, I welcome you home and am glad you made it home alive. Thank You for your service soldier.
You too are Blessed…
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Great !!! Nice to hear something with humor in it from that lousy war . Thanks .
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Accurate !!
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Absolutely great ! Always spot on & a few have hit home !! Please keep it up !!
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Cav-227th Very reminiscent of II Corps flying. The hot LZ depiction is nearly a carbon copy of the cover of my novel “Rotors”.
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A BRAVE SOLDIER, REST IN PEACE BROTHER!!!
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GREAT !!!!!!
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Enjoyed very much. good to see you made the time to do this. Many young people today should see this as it will be left out of history.
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Spread the word Larry…share…share…share!
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A close and personal inside look into the heart of the Viet Nam war. Intense and intriguing. Much appreciated.
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I was happy to see this. I am a widow of a retired military. He did two tours during Nam. He first came home on a passenger airliner and I picked him up. He looked like death warmed over. The second time, we were living on base (different State) and the families were able to gather in a hanger and meet the plane on the base runway. I had absolutely no support from the base military, but had wonderful friends who were a great support. I just can’t believe that he left for his first tour fifty years ago. Seems like yesterday. He died Nov. 1, 2007.
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I served two tours in country as a medevac pilot and ops officer in an assault helicopter. Company, You are doining an outstanding job.
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excellent
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It’s great. I’m glad you are here.
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Brought back some very sad memories.
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Great article sure takes me back.
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I had heard something about her while in country but nothing like this. A real soldier !!!
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Very interesting and very informative. I liked the intervue and the information giving by the Vietnamese man.
Other than what we called military “stuff” and combat the thing I hated most, other than stupid officers, was leaches in the rice patty water.
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Loved it.
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Very well written and speaks of exactly the way it was. Thank you for the good work your doing to tell the Vietnam war story.
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Outstanding articles and website. Can I share posts/articles with accreditation?
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Be my guest! Also leave the link to the website in case they want to peruse themselves. / John
On Mon, Jun 12, 2017 at 9:50 AM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Will do.
Thank you!
On Mon, Jun 12, 2017 at 1:01 PM Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
> pdoggbiker commented: “Be my guest! Also leave the link to the website in > case they want to peruse themselves. / John On Mon, Jun 12, 2017 at 9:50 > AM, Cherries – A Vietn
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This was FABULOUS and heartbreaking. God bless you. I served proudly in God’s own Marine Corps in Nam. I too have been recently diagnosed with bladder cancer. Like thousands of other vets, I’m waiting on the government to recognize bladder cancer and Agent Orange.
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Excellent and specific. It still wakes me up nights.
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Very good. Well written.
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Excellent article!
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This article stirred many old memories of my tour in a Nam. I too served proudly in God’s own Marine Corps, G Co, 2/1, 1stMarDiv. Keep up the good work!
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Simply put, I liked it!! SEMPER FI
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Important Hx as well Important acknowledgment that this many Women have been involved and Never Recognized. A movie or Made for TV (or Women Studies in Universities) Special documentary should be
created.
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I concur whole-heartedly…
Women-warriors went wherever we were – except in the bush; policies being what they were (and are)…
Why women weren’t recognized more openly is probably due to the sheer number of male participants (and resultant KIA, WIA stats… )
I’m certain there’s been some misogyny involved in women’s lack of recognition as well)…:
There WAS an attempt to create a TV show focusing on women in ‘Nam… in the ’80s… called CHINA BEACH
DECENT show, but women deserve far more recognition and appreciation than one ‘limited in scope’ TV show
Allen Brown
101st Airborne Div (AMBL)
THUA THIEN PROVINCE
VIETNAM 1970-1971
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Saw the show China Beach & was there for 3 day R&R in 1967 In the show women were Nurses and Donut girls. No Combat. When I was there, didn’t see any round eye women.
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I look forward to your articles. I’m not a veteran however, I lived through the Vietnam War years and the effects touched my life. “Thank you” to all our Veterans.
I have already pre-ordered the Ken Burns Vietnam documentary, and got a great price with PBS/WTTW membership.
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I hope you will seek out other sources of information about the Vietnam War. Burns is a leftist who presents a very biased, and in my opinion, inaccurate view of the war. As you view the film, look for any indication that the communists were a horrible, muderous force invading a sovereign nation. Pay particular attention to the battle of Hue in 1968 where the communists slaughtered thousands of innocent citizens, including women and children often by burying them alive.
Moral equivalency is presented with deliberate anti American intent.
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Ken Burn’s schlockumentary” on the Vietnam conflict is outright dishonest, blaming American soldiers for the prosecution of the war and denigrating them while absolving the communists of their invasion and subsequent atrocities. Ken Burns is silent about the number of “boat people” who risked their lives, and the lives of their children to escape that “communist paradise”. I suggest that Burns visit Garden Grove and Westminster California and ask the Vietnamese there what they think of his “documentary”. Ken Burns accidentally “let it (the truth) slip” when he interviewed an internee of the “re-education camps”. Despite the claims of the communists, who he interviewed, who claimed that “re-education” lasted about six months, the truth was that “re-education” lasted for twenty years for many. Ken Burns promotes the same mistakes, lies and fabrications that many “armchair warriors” and “chickenhawks” make about the Vietnam war. As far as I am concerned, Ken Burns’ “schlockumentary” rates a zero…
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I am a proud 100% combat disabled and medicly retired veteran of the Vietnam war, C Corp or lll Corp, Tay Ninh Provenance, B/2/1, 196th Light Infantry Brigade, Air Mobile, Chargers 1966/67.If you were never in Combat, there is no way possible for you to understand what we went through and the changes brought forth in us for having faced the enemy at amazingly close range.
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C/2/22 Mech, Dau Tieng 66-67 Remember the morning run to open the road through the Ben Cui . And, yes, if you were not in combat, you are not entitled to an opinion., but you are encouraged to listen and then ask?
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Everyone should know about the sacrefices that every veteran has made or ever will make for this country.
We the people of this country owe a debt that can never be repaid.
God bless.
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I enjoy reading all the articles about Vietnam. I live in Ireland and a Veteran from my town was killed in 1967 – Patrick Gallagher . He was comemorated this year on the 50th an. of his death.
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Very well written. I enjoy all the articles
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as a 10 year vet (air force – army – air force) my older brother 101 air born was a point man for three years in country. and he got me sent back to Europe instead of 1 year at ton sanute. (can’t spell for shit). up north by the dmz because of the murffy law. THANK YOU
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Was with Golf 2/5 in Hue Had the railroad bridges outside the citadel, kept them open with my squad, best Marines you would ever want to meet
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HOOO – RAHH! Semper Fi brother!
On Sun, Nov 5, 2017 at 6:02 PM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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Great !! I was at a base in the boonies by the tri-border & got to use MARS once at Cam Ranh. Lucked out as the ham operator was 3 blocks from where my folks lived & it was moms birthday so a lot of my family was there.
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This really hits home. Every now and then someone asks me what I did “in the war”. I have to admit many seem to be very interested & want me to go on and on but I have to stop a lot to explain the military & battlefied terms I’m using. But at least they ask.
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Article helped me to better understand why it is difficult for combat vets to relate to those of us who served but did not see combat.
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I’m a 71 year old physician who went to the Vietnam War as an Army Officer, before Medical school. I studied Vietnamese before going over in 1969. Trained as a Combat Engineer I ended up in psyops in Northern I Corps—Dong Ha, Hue, and Quang Tri with the 3rd Marines, 101st ABN, and 5th Mech Inf, respectively. I spent many hours with the Vietnamese people, slept in their hamlets, even teaching English to a class of Vietnamese in a Hue High school where Ho Chi Minh had been said to attend until expelled due to “revolutionary activities.” Interviewed numerous VC & NVA defectors (hoi chanh) . I am writing a book on my unique experiences there as I feel so many renditions of the war contradicts my own…
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Good luck, bro!
On Dec 10, 2017 4:02 PM, “Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel” wrote:
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go for it ur were there to know what went there the young people have been with are nice people. I am called a teacher or one had called me Mr. sometimes one calls me Mr, Edward. love these young people.
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I do this online on facebook to let you know
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My dad was in vietnam and he served in the Delta, but he said that during the 1970 border excursions into cambodia. That same thing reports of blond fair haired soldiers fighting alongside viet cong. The more i hear of them, the more i think they hid a lot from us as this war was being fought. Like who is involved and why.
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We had the same reports that Anglo Saxons were fighting with the NVA around Bong Son in 68/69. We figured that they were probably Soviets since we killed several high ranking Chicoms in uniform during the fighting in May on the Bong Son plain, when we hit and destroyed the division headquarters. The news media never reported it although they were shown the bodies in Chinese uniforms when they brought them out of the rubble.
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I want to believe thats not possible however among the weak i know better! the Question is HOW MANY?
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4.0 site
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I Believe this veterans every word! & as far as being TOO political? how in the hell is that possible? however it has been said & it’s True Gen william Westmoreland was the WORST American General since Gen George Custer! Gen ABRAMS should of been the commanding general in “65” if not for GEN Weyand the tet offesive would of been 10 times worse! (too political? The Democrats not communists! REALLY!)
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Love the article. I was a grunt with the 4 th Division in the central highlands In 1966 and your article is spot on. I will never forget the 1st few nights in the jungle. KC
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I was drafted while in college in 1968 and after Basic in Ft Dix and AIT at Ft Polk it was off to S Vietnam. I served with the 4/23 mechanized Infantry out of Tay Ninh. I fought in more battles than I care to remember. I was wounded once although not badly and had jobs ranging from machine gunner, TC, and squad leader. When after about 11 months I received my orders for back stateside and I was to spend the remaining 7 months at Ft Polk I stayed an extra 2 months in ‘Nam so I could then get the early out that was offered.
I saw bravery, sacrifice, honor and savagery in my 14 months there and I can only say that we did what we were trained to do. There were times that we were ordered to do things that we knew would result in civilian casualties but we found a way each time to avoid hurting those innocents.
No one who has not been in that situation has any right to even comment on any of this. Just be thankful you didn’t ever find yourself in this position.
Thanks to my fellow veterans for doing your duty and being my brothers.
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Could not agree with you more brother. Glad you made it back to the world.
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I am looking forward to reading his books. I seek
the truth of those who were there- not by journalists who were not.
I am the daughter of a USMC Vietnam Veteran (He was in from 1957-1965- The part of the War that History books or Documentaries never talk about.)
My dad was an amazing dad.
He hid his PTSD well to protect us kids from the
hell he went through- the things he’s seen and
had to do as all Soldiers in War have to do to protect their brothers and themselves- its a war-
and killing ppl is never easy for anyone in war-but that’s war. My Dad died young (age 60) – from Cancer complicated by A.O. in 2002.
To all who served- Whether still here or not- I THANK THEM ALL FOR THEIR SERVICE IN A WAR THEY DIDN’T CHOOSE- AND COME HOME ONLY TO BE SPIT ON & DEGRADED.
My dad was so hurt & angry by his country’s homecoming reaction-
he burned all his 🎖 ‘s – uniforms- everything.
My mom got another set of everything- after he passed- because he earned them as a “boy” but came home a man. God Bless you All! XOXOXO
If you want to add me on FB- pls send a message and let me know how you found me as I have my page private and locked down like Fort Knox 😂.
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Hi Patti, Thank You for your Dad’s service, I too am going through the same with A/O. Lucky enough to get my full Disability. 1966-67 was my time there. So happy you are Proud of your Dad and his service. Semper Fidelis
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Your pops must have been a heck of a Marine, and a wonderful Father. Vietnam for most of us Marines was everything you heard and more. As a squad leader in 1968-1970 we ad our hands full as well as no sleep and lots of humping in mountains, flatland and sandy spots not to mention the heat and NVA. Your welcome to contact my FB Page anytime.
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Sorry for your loss, Patti! I don’t know a Vietnam Vet that ISN’T affected by Agent Orange in one way or another. With the many articles, videos, photos, etc. on this website should give you a pretty good idea of what he went through during the war. Welcome and keep in touch. / John
On Mon, Feb 19, 2018 at 6:15 AM, Cherries – A Vietnam War Novel wrote:
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They let people enlist at age 15 in 1956?
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A very gripping story to say the least. I got in country Sept 68′, Hue was total ruins. I heard the stories, talked to a Marine that had been their. He told me that they threw so many grenades that supplies had ran out and that they were using leftover pineapple grenades from WWII?
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Best article I have ever read, brought flash backs and tears to my eyes, and a heavy heart for the lost. I lost my best friend in life that I served with just recently. Every single male (6) in my family has served in a war since WWI.
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Memories. I was a gunner 119th assault. Pleiku 67-68.
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I flew with 388th air recovery in Soc Trang, 1-2367 to 1-26-69 had a rigging crew of 4 guys not including the pilot and co pilot, we had to go recover downed aircraft and it was a very sobering thing to see some of those aircraft and how any of the crews servived , I wish I had taken the time to write about it but like so many vets, ya just kind of let that war fad away till you get old and have time to really dwell on just what happen, anyway it was two years of my life that had its good times and its night mares, God Bless those who never made it back home, my heart still hurts for their familys…..
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DUSTOFF Pilot. Had to read it. WE had the SAME problem in III Corps. All of Vietnam I presume.
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Incredible!! Glad you made it back to the world brother. Yes, the Huey is the greatest acft ever.
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Reblogged this on Dating after 50 and commented:
While the war was going on all my thoughts we about American soldiers. I sympathized with them and still do to this day.
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I build helicopter replicas on the 1/48 scale and the machines used in the Vietnam War are my favorites.
Its history makes us present in a war we never participated in. Today I am 51 years old and I am a fan of (real) war stories.
Congratulations on the website.
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Do you build a Huey model??
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great website im fascinated by the Vetnam war, I was born in 1964 so too young to remember it although I do recall the news that Saigin had fallen in 1975 when I was 11 watching it in the kitchen of my parents flat in Rome….
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It was right on. Seemed like we could have been in the same unit.
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It was right on. Seemed like we could have been in the same unit.
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Yes…you nailed it ! Good job !
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The article is great. Hanoi Jane is a piece of crap & should just be ignored as the worthless trash she is.
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She makes me sick to my stomach and so does the fact that she and the other left wingers who insured we could not win with their whining and misinformation. May she never be forgiven!.
We were risking our lives daily i the 1st Infantry Division and elsewhere in Vietnam while this ignoramus was cozying up to out enemies and lying about those courageous POW’s as if they regretted their service or admitted to being “war criminals”. If these were war criminals that were not in North Vietnam, she and Tom Haydn were their spiritual god parents.
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As a product of and participant in the Vietnam war, having extensive knowledge of the Vietnam situation, atrocities by American troops were extremely rare.
Yes, My Lai was a horrible, sickening display of out-of-control American troops, which should have resulted in many more prosecutions, but atrocities by the communists were much more frequent, and never reported by the American mainstream media. Look up the communist massacre at Duc Duc. The communists not only slaughtered the occupants of the village, but tortured men, women and children as well. I’ll bet that most others have never heard of it. There were many other instances of communist atrocities throughout the South.
MEDCAPS were “medical civic action programs” in which medical treatment, inoculations and other preventive measures were rendered to Vietnamese civilians by American Navy corpsmen, Army medics and doctors. There were cases where, after the Americans vacated the village, the VC would come in and chop off the arms of those who received inoculations–men, women, children–it did not matter to them. Cooperating with Americans would result in maiming and even slaughter by those espousing a “communist paradise”.
As to disrespect of returning veterans, blaming those who are sent off to war is NEVER right. Those who serve and have served DO sign that “blank check” on the dotted line “for up to and including one’s life”.
It is interesting to note, that when the military draft was abolished, the protests stopped. The “anti-war protesters” cared not one wit about the plight of the Vietnamese people, but were only concerned about one thing–saving their own skins. Even present-day “uber-patriot” rock-and-roller Ted Nugent got in on the “game”, defecating and urinating on himself and not washing for a month before reporting for induction. He was sent home. He later declared that Vietnam was “not his war”.
These same “anti-war” protesters were totally silent when the Vietnamese boat people started escaping their “communist paradise” in droves, risking life and limb in the process. I, for one will NEVER have respect for those “anti-war protesters.
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This is great!! No shootings or killing, nothing getting blown to hell, just Americans helping people that needed help. Truly impressive!!
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I had the feeling many times with my interventions with Vietnamese I met and talked to, they had as much desire as I did to be fighting that war, none. They really didn’t care who was running the country as long as they could get to their rice paddy, instead they would find a new road we built so they had to find a different way to get there.
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Having served in VN as a Scout Dog Handler w/the 58th & 42nd Scout Dog Pltns at Camp Evans & Camp Eagle (respectively), with the 101st Abn Div, plus having known & friends with many SF VN Veterans, I found this article to be very interesting. Have much respect for SF, Rangers, & LRRP’s who served in VN & elsewhere.
I currently wear a KIA bracelet (since about 1976) w/the name of Robert J. Sullivan, MSG, from NH, SOG, KIA on 7-12-67 in Laos. His body was never recovered. I wonder if anyone reading this knew him. 🙏🇺🇸
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We had one attempt on a platoon Sergeant in Battalion on hill 34 , just outside DaNang. He would get drunk and come back to the unit where he would go around the gun sections, harassing the troops. One night he came back to his “hooch” and someone set up a trip wire with a dummy grenade. All he heard was the “ping” of the pin being pulled. Next day, he was gone.
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Absolutely correct in what you said. We had a saying where I was the higher in rank the less they knew. From what you wrote it confirms that saying. Thank you for what you wrote and having the courage to write it. It makes what happened a lot clearer.
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Somewhere between 500 & 1,738 times, I’ve heard about John McCain being unable to lift his arm. Now, thru this article I learn that Fred Cherry sustained a comparable injury. He was there 2 yrs. longer than the media’s anointed hero, McCain. He endured more severe torture. Most importantly, the number of times Cherry sponsored legislation to stymie FOIA requests about MIAs
is permanently fixed at zero. For McCain, that number is approaching a baker’s dozen. Before his passing in 2016, Pulitzer prize-winning author/reporter Sydney Schanberg reported frequently, and in depth, on this shameful facet of McCain’s mischief in the senate. I believe (?) his website called “beyond the killing fields” is still accessible on the internet. Anyone swayed by the media’s 24/7 slobber fest over McCain should spend a moment -or few- at that site.
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Fantastic reading and informative. Many childhood friends were lost this war. Many more came back with health and other problems. Thank you
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The article was very informing. I have previously read a book by the Viet Cong Minister of Justice. Even as a
Civilian member of the conflict his comments were very much in agreement, especialy about the hazard of the environment. My own observation is that even without the war being there could be deadly. My research shows that 40% of American casualties were non combat related. During the monson at an NDP in the Trapizoid Jungle 5 of us were sleeping next to each other under an extended flap of the TOC tent. RPGs came in and we all jumped up to scramble for the perimeter. The FO staff sergeant laying right next to me stumbled as he got up. Thinking nothing about it I kept going. Later after the fight quieted a Dust Off came in. When i got back to the TOC I found the sergeant had been bitten in the leg by a banded Krait. He died after the put him on the huey. Turns out that the snake had been between the two of us as were jammed together to get partially out of the rain. The snake hit him not me. He was our only casualty that night. Death is often that random.
I have written a book of poems about Vietnam this particular incident has always been with me reminding me of the vagarities of life.
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VERY EXCELLENT
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As I reads the comments it made me think they are all missing the point of the poem. It is about all of us that put on the uniform every day. It didn’t matter where you were we were all brothers and sisters in arms. Regardless of where you spent your time, we are all veterans, and we should all be so humble, because we can read this poem. It’s time to forget us and remember all of those that didn’t make it home.
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Some will probably dis-agree. And some will, agree. That’s life, What i’m saying is, we had no business in Viet Nam. My time in country there was, from early in May of 1970 until early May of 1971. I was first in the 543d Trans, Based in Long Bihn just north of Saigon. In Nov. 70 we merged with the 572d Trans. known as, The Gypsy Bandits. We took the Trucks & all equipment to the Port Of Saigon. Not too much later we all boarded C-147z and flew north. And eventually wound up in the Quang Tri Province. That was quite, a difference. A very few days after arrival in QT our trucks & equipment arrived there at, a Port. From there we began hauling all sorts of War Supplies to outlying Combat Bases. Like we did from Saigon / Long Bihn. Early in May of 1971. My Tour was over. I departed from, that God Forsaken Country. God Bless America. Love It Or LeaveIt. OK
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We are all, different.
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Today is 21 July 2018. It is my opinion that the most recent entries should appear at the top of this page.
We served under the U.S. Navy Special Warfare Group, MACFORV.
West Coast SEAL Team ONE, and my team, East Coast SEAL Team TWO. Each platoon was gone six months in country and return home for more training and rotate back in six months. We were mainly assigned to FOUR Corps, the Delta.
WAR: We Are Ready. War Games Vietnam “Make War and Love”
‘If it wasn’t for the ProPay, PerDiem Pay, and Combat Pay, PLUS
whiskey/beer ration card and the L.B.F.M’s we would have probably not voluteered to return to ‘nam.
HooYah! “The Only Easy Day was Yesterday!”
Snakeater; Doc Rio
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Thank you for the suggestion of listing comments newest to oldest…makes perfect sense and I have changed the setting on the website to do just that. / John
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Most thorough account I’ve read to date. I was a US Army infantry lieutenant who served as a pacification. program advisor in I Corps 9/71-5/72 and was often in the Chu Lai area. The 23rd ID stood down when I first came in country with her 196th Light Infantry Brigade moving up to patrol the so called rocket belt around DaNang. I felt a very lonely staying on the abandoned Chu Lai base for my work after it had been left by the 23rd. There was a small MACV advisory unit still there and some ARVN, but not near me. Fire Base Mary Ann attended my thoughts each night and I slept lightly with my 45 and M-16 nearby. Not that they’d have done me much good if Charlie/NVA had decided to come for my small group. Our best defense in retrospect is that we were too insignificant and they were occupied gearing up for the 72 Easter Offensive. Speaking as a graduate of Bennings School For Wayward Boys, it seems that you well highlighted the misfires at Mary Ann that led to the debacle, for me the chief ones being lack of LPs and the perimeter trip devices. I seriously doubt they’d have been overrunned if they had caught at least some in the wire in time to get most of the garrison out of the bunkers and at full alert. What many did even under the circumstances of only being alerted after their perimeter had been already penetrated showed that most were competent soldiers and very likely would’ve stopped the enemy cold if they’d been caught while still in the wire.
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Well done!
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Thoroughly enjoyed the read. Brought back memories of another time and place. Spent the majority of my two tours (65-66) and (67-68) in Hospital settings: 8th Field Hospital – NhaTrang and 85th Evac in QuiNhon.
Always have had the utmost of respect for those men like ‘Tennessee’, ‘Cannonball’ and the rest who humped it in the bush every day, chasing Charlie.
It was a good read. Thanks for posting it.
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Hello Carl Williams, My name is Clarence Hooper I was in Qui Nhon in 67/68 and went through all 5 phases of Tet. I was in the 85 Evac. hospital 2 times. I am sure you wouldn’t remember me. My first night in Qui Nhon I gave blood there.My email is hotelhooper@yahoo.com, my cell is 407-234-0886
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Mr Williams I was in the 85th Evac. in Qui Nhon in 1967 & 1968. My name is Clarence Hooper
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go to the comment section of the article…he won’t see it in this comment section.
On Wed, Sep 12, 2018, 6:41 AM CherriesWriter – Vietnam War website wrote:
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Good, accurate article. Only thing I found odd was amount of water carried. We were expected to have at least 8 quarts. I carried 13 (extra for machine gunners) because I couldn’t carry the M-60 and only carried the radio when our platoon was down to 9 men.
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Very much appreciated it. I was C-130 crew chief in the Air Force, but had a friend who was killed at Kah San. He was a Marine. I think of him often and always wondered what he went through.
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The answer is HELL.
Sent from my iPhone
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We grunts are thankful and really appreciate the Air Force, especially the carpet bombing runs @ Dak To – “Rolling Thunder”in late 1967-’68 with your B-52’s. If not for them I believe that there would be double or triple the amount of names on our Wall.
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I was an Infantryman (11B20p) with the 173rd Airborne Brigade (B/4/503rd Inf.) and you nailed it! But I wouldn’t go through that again unless the enemy attacked us on our home turf. The war in Vietnam was bull shit IMO and not worth dying for. Sin Loi minoi! – Still I was proud to have served as an Infantryman/paratrooper. No one including Special Forces, SEAL’s etc had it harder on a day to day basis and took more casualties than Army and Marine Infantry!
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Good article. Just shows that some of the best in the military get very little recognition unless they become well known in some other venue.
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Great article I was with Charlie Company 1/35 th Fourth Infantry. I started out as an RTO but eventually was a team leader and I did walk point several times over the course of a year. The description was a good portrayal of a day in the life of a grunt/ leg. Thanks for the article
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welcome home brother.
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I was a Vietnam draft dodger and antiwar activist. We saved lives of Americans and Vietnamese by shortening the war. Where is OUR memorial?
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Demonstrating to stop the war had to take place in Hanoi, not safe America. No one had the guts to do that. After 1973, the US, placating useful idiots in th US, was not involved in the war. More deaths occurred after 1973 than all during our involvement. Hundreds of thousands of them South Vietnamese fleeing the brutal bastards of communist tyranny. Your “monument” is Vietnam, until recently the most backward repressive nation on earth. Congratulations.
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Nice reply Phil & spot on !!!
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Amen to that.
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I couldn’t have said it more eloquently, Phil. Spoken like a true veteran. Welcome home, and God Bless!!
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