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GUESTBOOK ENTRIES - 1st HALF OF 2004 I have just looked at my copy of Stanton and found carbons of a letter
I sent to LTC Rocco Negris dated 26 July 1972 after reading of the casing
of the Brigade colors in an article in that days New York Times, which
included a photo. I have a letter from Negris to me acknowledging mine
which is dated 2 August 1972. Some guys may have still been on the ground
later in August, but the 196th no longer existed as a unit. i think i was the f.o. with b company when the willie pete went off
and remember it pretty clearly. if was early in the a.m. and busted the
leg of a grunt. there were alot of caches and caves up in the mts nd the
area was supposed to be hot. later r blocker Gordon: the 196th per se stood down around July of 72. The 3/21st
remained until August (I think you're right about the date).The 3/21st
that remained continued to wear the 196th patch. I think it was still
196th but I'm not positive.I Have an old Stars and Stipes headline of
the 3/21st standing down. I think it says 3/21st 196th. I'll try to find
it, scan it and e-mail it to you.If I recall it was B Company that took
the HE round in the field that afternoon when they had requested a willie
pete airburst.I have seen two people that were in B Company that day post
here. Maybe they can help.I think it was D Company that spent the last
day in the field. They stayed about a week longer after they brought in
the other companies.Someone in D Company was the last guy ,on the last
chopper ,in the last group out of the bush officially. So I guess he "turned
out the light". RE: Gordon's question (below): Stanton [Vietnam Order of Battle]
maintains 3/21 was reassigne to 196th when AMERICAL departed Vietnam.
3/21 became 'Separate' when 196th left Vietnam, and was "the last U.S.
Army ground combat battalion to leave Vietnam." To all of our 196th. Brothers. I maintain a current roster of 400
Delta / HHC - 4/31 Vets. Ranger Bob is a Brother in good standing from
Delta - 4/31 and his offer is good. Saigon will always be Saigon to me
even if I was only there once. ( Old School ) It was to long of a hump
from our Friendly surroundings of Que Son Valley, Antenna Valley, LZ West,
Siberia and Nui Chom Mt. May God bless " US " all and enjoy your visit.
Vance A. van Wieren Ranger Bob's offer of free lodging sounds suspicious...Siagon has
been Ho Chi Mihn City for years...or am I mistaken...if genuine offer,
thank you Bob Confusion and a question: The unit history says we stood down in
June, 1972. However, at least one company of 3/21 Infantry and B Battery,
3/82 Field Artillery remained. B Battery took over a different Hill and
assumed coverage for an area previously covered by RVN's. I was first
stationed on Hill 260 (LZ Linda), then at HHB 3/82 FA compound (morning
report clerk)--CO LTC Orren Widdon, and finally, in June, was assigned
to the residual force (B Battery) as RTO/Clerk at the airbase. We did
not ship out until August 13, 1972. This is important because we claim
that our organization was the final ground combat unit in country, but
The Cav was also operating down south, and they only stood down about
a week before us in August. I have the copies of the Associated Press
Black & White photo prints of the final FA round being fired (a ceremonial
WP). So, the question is, does anyone know if the residual force was officially
196th Infantry Brigade or not (no one told me to change my shoulder patch),
AND does anyone have knowledge of the terrible "friendly fire" incident
that the residual force infantry troops suffered as a result of rounds
fired by B Battery? It was likely in July, with a minimum of 3 casualties
and 10 wounded. A Major Ward was in charge at headquarters operations
at the DaNang Airbase, and the CO at LZ Scott was a CPT. Picket (?). Feel
free to e-mail me. (SSG; 9 1/2 years, SMOS 13E30 (primary in RVN), PMOS
91C30) D/4/31 Oct69-70. Airborne Ranger. Have been living and teaching English
in Saigon, Vietnam for 2 years. Will provide room for 5 days or more free
of charge to all 196th vets. Have large house in Saigon we should all be outraged at what was done to daniel. a civilian.
be headed. this can be seen on the web site inhonor.net it is not a good
thing to view. I was a proud member of the 196th Light Infantry Brigade 3D Battalion,
21th Infantry, Company C. I was in Vietnam in 1967. Started out in Tay
Ninh and moved north. Any brothers out there that remember my name and
want to talk? It's been a long time and I have never forgotten. I was a proud member of the 196th Light Infantry Brigade 3D Battalion,
21th Infantry, Company C during Vietnam War. Go to the Honor Roll and check company, Bat or date to find names
of KIA. Mike, I sure don't. Remember the Lt's name, that is. I heard back
from one of the two people I know who might remember, he only recalls
the name of the Lt early in our tour -- Kopco, nicknamed Nick or Nicky.
He was the platoon leader of the First Platoon during Charlie Ridge, etc.
Our platoon leader in the second half of my tour was a captain -- I guess
they were running out of companies by then. Another lieutenant in another
platoon was killed on July 3 or 4, but we don't remember his name either.
It's not that my mind is a total blank! -- just a very thick fog when
it comes to the names and even many of the faces of the men with whom
I served. New email address. U.S., A Co., 4/31, Oct. 70 - Jan. 71. AKA "Indianhead",
11B10, 11B20. My father Richard P. Davis was at LZ Baldy between 66-67 he is not
to savvy when it comes to the internet, I and my younger brother have
been trying to reach anyone that might have known him, he was in the 136
signal unit, please send email if you knew him, thanks. HELLOW BROTHERS,I WAS WITH A&D COMPANY 4\31 196 LIGHT INFANTRY FROM
12\66 TO 12\67WITH BEAN,RHONES MILLER,OGDEN THOMAS,REEDER,RINGER,LACY,SMITHY,
PRETTY BOY,FRENCHY,DAN ZUMA,MAPLE,REBEL,DADS 1&2 YOU WALKED THE LINE ANDI
CARRIED THE BODIES TO THE LZ.WE DIDN'T KNOW WHO WAS CRAZIER THAT DAY.HOPE
TO HERE FROM YOU SOON. My memory has become shorter over the years and I remember that Semper
Primus means always first as we had a Lt. that believed that for sure.He
always volunteered my squad first but I forget what Pro Patria stands
for! Help me please! Thanks. Tim....Sgt. Marty Hard to believe, today is the 36th. anniv. of the battle
for the ridge. One Zulu, Bravo, Alpha and all else involved, One more
year we never expected. God Bless All! Pro Patria; Ed Latini. A/4/31. Don..Doc, C 1/46, July '71 to July '72 or thereabouts Do you remember
your last LT.s name or nickname? HI LACY;it was it was good to see you are still punching.we were
in d company 4\31 196 light infanty.i was there from 12\66 to 12\67.Thomas
and dan zuma and i suppose to meet on new years 1968 but they didn't make
it to the club in philly.reeder met my son at fort dix he was a sgt major.hope
to hear from you .your brother dan my dad was in 196th lib 68-69 aug-oct. I think 3/1 company B. hey
I just want to tell everyone I feel so much like the 196th just b/c of
my dad. I love my dad very much and even with all of his problems with
PTSD and family and everything God has been faithful to him like he is
with me and i love him b/c the love of the lord is within him. I am proud
of everyone who served in any War especially in Viet-nam. God's love to
you all!!!!!!! Served in C2/1 3rd Platoon 3rd squad 196th. from November 1968 to
November 1969. ** Skip, I tried to email you but the email was returned.**
To those who have made the comments that the 3/21 Gimlet website
is dead, not true. There are legal issues that still need to be fully
resloved. Some person got into the website and inserted a virus into the
computer that held the website's information and the system crashed. The
decision was made to leave the site up on the server until such time as
the legal issues could be resloved and a new site could be built. The
new website will not be an interactive site as once planned, and will
not contain as many links. There will be no message board ro guest book;
these only attract vandilism. Look for the new site. According to Paul Gildner the 1/46th web site server crashed and
is being rebuilt from the ground up. It's likely that, upon completion,
it will be necessary for all who want to be registered there to go back
and re-register and fill out profile information. Just a minor inconvenience.
Not like making an error in judgement that causes young men to die needlessly...ain't
that right Jack? ON MAY 1ST, 67 A LITTEL KNOWN BATTEL SOUTH OF CHU-LIE WAS FOUGHT
BY MY PLATOON FROM "B" 4/31, ON THAT DAY BOBBY HUNT WAS KILLED SEVERAL
OTHERS WONDED,,BOBBY WAS MY FRIEND AN I STILL MISS HIM,,,,,, Mike, I agree with you. I hated to see the 1/46 site go poof, and
hope and pray that the 196th site and its guestbook stays up and running
for a long time. I visit here daily, or nearly so, just to hear the stories
and read the comments and experience the camaraderie and see if any of
my old army buddies have decided to stop by and say "hi". -Doc, C 1/46,
July '71 to July '72 or thereabouts To Tom Bedient 4/3 Inf 11th Brigade Americal Division 69/69 Thank
you for finding Lt.Gary Tierney for me.It was so good to hear from him
he is doing fine now,and is retired from the VA after thirty years. It
took thirty six years but I knew someday I would find him. God Love you!
Doc La Palio HHC,Delta,and Charlie Co's 4/31st "Pro Patria" 68/69. I served with the 3-82FA, 196th LIB from Mar 71 to Jan 72. Initially
as an FO with C/1-46 Inf (Mar 71 to Jun 71); then Arty LnO with 2-1 Inf
(Jul 71 to Sep 71); and finished up my tour as CO A/3-82FA (Oct 71 to
Jan 72). Interested to hear from anyone with whom I may have served. Randy, I'm sure you already know of this place but maybe not so............
http://www.angelfire.com/mo3/1_52inf_americal/page1.html You can probably
find some vets from the 52nd to ask here. I guess the 1/46th website is now gone. It seems everywhere you
look Vietnam Veteran Websites are slowly shutting down. I hope it never
happens to this one.I drop by here all the time just to see some other
196th people talk. I need some help, once again, guys... I have started (already) collecting
stories from Vets who've been treated by VA in a negligent, inadequate,
delayed manner, or from those 100%ers who have been denied care. Tentative
title: "The VA - / Homeland Terrorists". Will not be using actual (real)
names, but will want times, locations, etc. Give me a shout... Randy Echo company medic's I received a e-mail from Deb Hackman who is
assisting Bert Selness an 11Bravo with Echo Co. March 1st 71 to August
71 he carried the pig. He needs help with the VA he banged up his ankle
and needs someone to verify that he was injured. I hope any of the Echo
or HHC Medic's on Baldy,or West will help out. You can e-mail me or reach
Deb Hackman at hackman@acegroup.cc Thanks Doc La Palio HHC,Delta and Charlie
Co's 4/31st 68-69 Just finished "Through The Valley" Good read, misses much of what
othrs did during the resulting reinforcement by A/4/31. The last page
states A/4/31 sustained causualties during attack on fortified position!
B.S. It was a cluster %$#@. We stumbled into a Batallion sized ambush.
I set my team, then went too the kill zone and pulled out S.Sgt. Hunt
and one other wounded. The battle lasted all night and into the next morning.
We got out with about 30 guys who were not causualties, I've got the records,
I'll send them to Lt. Mansfield, where you can check them out, If you
doubt. Ed Latini. Just had a change in my email address. Served with Company A, 8th
Support Battalion. Went over in the deployment from Ft. Devens. Served
in country from 66 - 67. Always enjoy hearing from guys from the company.
Tracy, Try the links below to correspond with our troops. Tim...
Senator Jane Orie has made little cards entitled "Reach Out & Touch a
Hero" Send a message thanking the brave & dedicated men & women of the
US military Service for defending our Country's freedom. www.defendamerica.mil/nmam.html
Served in C 2/1 196th 3rd platoon, 3rd squad from Oct.68 to Aug.69.
Would like to hear from anyone I served with. It's been a long time, so
welcome home to all. i would like to corresponde with our troops but don't really know
how to. Can anyone point me in the right direction? thank you and God
Bless Mike (and others), allow me to offer my translation: It is an honor
to be able to make contact with this exemplary unique unit of the U.S.
Army, especially with its Commander Col. Steven Mirr, with whom I had
the honor of sharing a classroom in Venezuela in the Basic Infantry Course.
Greetings from the Venezuelan Infantry." Col Steven Mirr is the Commander of the current 196th Light Infantry
Brigade. Es un honor poder establecer contacto con esa ejemplar Unidad
Superios del U.S.Army, en especial con su Comandante El Sr. Col. Steven
Mirr, con quien tuve el honor de compartir aula en Venezuela en el Curso
Integral de Infantería. Saludos de los infantes de Venezuela I do not know how many of you have seen this web site its www.DustysPoetry.com
The titile of the poem is"Hello David". Dusty is one of our Nurses, I
beleived served at the 91st Evac. Brother's George Lee and Amoes Sheppard
sent it to me. Have a soemthing to wipe your eyes with. God Bless you
all! Doc La Palio, Delta & Charlie co's 4//31st 68-69 Just like to say welcome back brothers.I served in D 2/1 LIB from
9-69--9-70. We were a mobile unit that flew all over the central highlands.nickname
Ike or called me Mitch. Will love hear from someone. Blessings I was with A Co. 3/21 August to November 1969. Dan McFall was my
squad leader and Borrelo was platoon leader. Anyone out there. I finally
dug out pictures after 30+ years. I was at LZ Center AO. On March 22, 1969 Co. C 2/1 196th LIB was ambushed by the VC. My
father 1st Lt. Cecil I. Wright was wounded during this skirmish. I was
just wondering if any of these men are still alive and if they remember
what happend. Looking for Roger Litteral, Jerry J. Barnes, Douglas P.
Steele, Ronald Haberman, Sylvester Harrall, Wilbert F. Otstot, James D.
Crain, Norman Sanders, Sang Wang, Robert D. Gerber, Thomas Hall, Richard
Hernandez, and men with the last names of Gardner, Reitman, Bates, Smith,
E., James, Dzatko, Siegfied, Wood, Graves, Ford, Tennant, Burns, Smith,
L. and Holloway. Any help would be greatly apprieciated. My dad is alive
and doing well, he would like to get in contact with some of his old comrades.
Thanks, Garret Anyone out there that was in Da Nang or Phi Bai 1972 to standown To all of our Delta & HHC - 4/31 Brothers, please note that we have
been forced to change our e - mail contact to basecampdelta431"at"i2k.com
Please use a normal @ instead of the "at". The phone number is still 269
- 543 - 3661 & the street address is still 6654 - 122nd. Ave. Fennville,
MI. 49408. May God richly bless us all. Vance I did a short search on LT Tierney and found nothing of use. I have
heard though if you know someone at the VA this is an easy job to find
a name. Because of privacy concerns they will mail him a letter saying
that you wish to contact him. They will give him your address/phone number.There
is a document and process for doing this at the VA, I forget what it's
called. Others , as you probably know are looking for him also. Looking
for all men who served with Delta - 4/31 & HHC - 4/31. 196th. Lt. Anderson
- 70 & 71, 2nd. Plt. Sgt. Phillip Madlang - 69, Lt. Tierney - 68 ( FO
) Beadle Bailey - 68 & 69, 2nd. platoon gun Sq. Capt. Solo - 66 & 67,
Capt. Baxter - 71, Medic's, F O's, Chaplains, 1966 Boat People to Stand
down 10/71. We have contacted approx. 450 of the guys and about 370 are
on a current roster. Contact Vance A. van Wieren 6654 - 122nd. Ave. Fennville,
MI. 49408 or 269 - 543 - 3661 or vw196nam@i2k.com Welcome home my Brothers
and may God richly bless you & your loved ones. Vance A. van Wieren Fennville,
MI USA - Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 23:59:59 (EST) I am still looking for LT.Tierney 3/82 Foward Observer Delta 4/31
67/68. We were wounded by land mine Febuary 28th,1968 west of Tam Ky in
the Que Son Valley. We had just cleared a village and were walking out.
I was a fng and Lt.Tierney was pointing out were an ambush could be sprung
on us in the tree line. When the land mine got us,Lt.Tierney lost both
legs and I was blinded,his rto was wounded. Doc Eder,God love him took
care of us and we where medevaced out to NSA Da Nang. When Captain Mellon
got wounded he saw him in San Francisco at the Army hospital that was
last anybody has seen him. No one knew his first name so I can't do a
search to find him,I have tried the VA and the Army no luck. If anybody
would know where he is I would appericiate it. Doc La Palio HHC,Delta
and Charlie Co's 4/31st 68/69 Gary Lipowski, I tried emailing you but mail kept coming back. I
was in recon and will mail you some addresses. I talked to Edgar Jones
yesterday and he remembers you. I got your email but I am not the same
guy you thought I was. I didn't get to recon till late Sept. 68. Will
mail you. Mac B Co. 3/21 196th. 6/10/67 to 3/1/68 E Co. 3/1/68 to 6/11/68 Does any one have information on Keith Lemons?(1968-1969) I was in
in the four-deuce squad on LZ Center for E Co. of 3/21. Keith was in FDC
at the time. I came into country and joined the "Assassins" with Keith
Lemons and Jack Lee before we were assigned to the mortar squads. I think
of all of faces I remember, often, but the names are lost. Thanks,"Lip" Chargers..., beware email from "196th.org@trebor.org"...it carries
a virus. Randy served with hhc 196th rifle platoon-67-68--later transfered to 23rd
s&t---would like to have contact with anyone from that time--currently
living in chiang mai thailand--good luck to all who served then and now--phil Have contacted Phil Baus, John Nover, Larry Leisman and John Gentry.
Still looking for Jerry Novotny, Phil Thomas, Mike Garcia, DiMico, Ron
Steiber, Willis, Brinson, Mays, Doc Hassbrook, Lt. Campbell, Benny Lara,
William Featherston, Thompson, Ernie Torres (Chico), Tom Christopher and
anyone else that served 1969-70 4/31st RECON. Please contact me, wanting
to plan a reunion. This is not a commercial, it is a favor to you who served in the
196th during Viet~Nam. If there are any objections to this post, please
remove immediately. As a limited special service I will create from a
196th Veterans personal 8MM or VHS military movie (No matter what time
period),an edited, artistic movie on DVD. You have already paid the price
for my services. E-Mail me for questions and instructions. David Garcia.
Director/Editor ACVF. dgarcia@everestkc.net http://aclassicvoicefilms.com/
Happy Easter to all......... I am working on an overlay project,
using a map of the Heip Duc Valley, along with logs, after action reports,
and Humphries book THROUGH THE VALLEY hoping to have the project completed
till the next reunion. However, I have a question where C 2/1 assulted
into upon entering the Valley....the logs and after actions give a coordinate
that would have been south of the Lau River, however, Humphries has the
insertion north of the Lau. Can any of you clear this up for me? I really
want to get this correct. Thanks I'm also wondering about the 1/46 web site. I haven't been able to
get to it for about a month now and I would like to know if anyone out
there can shed some light on what happened. I was in F Troop From Feb 69 to Sept 69. I was in the 3rd plotoon.
I would like to hear from anyone fron that time. Great web site. Glad
I found it. I am trying to locate Leo Kelly drafted from NJ was an original medic
in "C" 3/21. I last saw him in June 1967 when he went home by boat. Sorry about clogging the site. I leave for New York tomorrow I'll
be there ii days. Any brothers from that area can reach m @ 720-205-4142,
I'd love to meet some of you, Ed. Thank You very much, Ed. Ed - Powell's Books has a used copy - this is the URL addy to the
one they have listed - http://www.powells.com/cgi-bin/biblio?inkey=2-1555878210-0 Hey guys where can I get a copy of "Through The Valley"? Pro Patria
Ed. Great job of editing. Thanks so much for keeping this site alive.
What a long, strange trip it's been! I'm looking for someone who served with me in C Btry 3rd Bn 82nd
Arty 196th Lt Inf Bde during the year 66 to 67. I've submitted a claim
with the VA for hearing problems and they now tell me I need to have someone
who was in NAM the same time I was to verify that my hearing loss was
due to the cannon fire. Pleses help me if you can. I have just finished reading about the 196th in Vietnam in the book
titled"Through the Valley:Vietnam,1967-1968". WOW. I wanted to let the
author, Col.James F.Humphries, know how much his obviously tireless efforts
in producing this historical document/book were appreciated. The story
of the battles of the Hiep Duc and Que Son Valleys and on the DMZ at Nhi
Ha was,all at once, educational,enthralling,reverent and amazing. I recomend
this book to anyone interested in the Vietnam War or the 196th in particular.
If anyone knows Col. James F. Humphries (ret.),please tell him how much
I appreciated his book and dedication to his men and his country. As a
"younger American" (40 years old), I did not serve in Vietnam, but, I
do respect, appreciate, and honor the efforts and sacrifices of those
men and women that served, some at the ultimate cost. THANK YOU... Alex
Warren, your email doesn't work. Chief was Dexter Aoah and I think
he lives in Wind River County area in Wyoming. http://www.vacationinwyoming.com/mainwindriverreservation.htm
What happened??? Just realized I'll be "60" at the next reunion!!
Happy Easter to all, Pro Patria; Ed. Rusty, by April I was a drill Sgt. at Ft. Lewis, I was a "Quick KILL"
instructor. We got them after A.I.T leave.We had the entire Nisqually
Indian Reservation, full of mock Hueys,deuce and a-half trucks, and a
pop up target range, cake duty! Take carre glad you made it. Pro Patria;
Ed. I put "at" in my e-mail address instead of @, to avoid spam as suggested
(also note the underscore that doesn't show up when the e-mail
address is underlined-Editor)...so you can't just click on it.
You have to re-write the address. Welcome Home, every one of you... This is Rusty, again. I was in country from early April 1969 'til
1 March 1971. I am here to jog my memory. I have too few names, but a
lot of faces, there. I was from Arizona...lived outside of Williams when
I returned from VN...moved to MN in 1973 because of the water and cheap
land. Have 50 acres in a state forest, with my own power source (photovoltaics)
and an underground (bunker type) house. My wife is a Vet, too. Good team-mate. To all those who served,THANK YOU. I have a freind who served with
Bravo 4/31 68 69,Names Tim Richer was from chicago. He's just starting
to talk some about it. Told me about Indian guy who carried the pig,called
the CHIEF Any info on this, Drop me a line Rusty read your' entry when were you in the rear? I was Batt. Post
Master, Oct and Nov. A great job after the bush, I'm so glad they hit
me in the leg??? So many others gave so much more. Pro Patria; Ed. Rusty, What year was you over there? I was with D/2/1 12/66~12/67.
Did you know Lt. Scottie Byrnes 3/82nd FO? Tim I noticed the 1/46th site has been down for weeks. Is it gone forever
now? Spent most of my time in country with 2nd Bn/1st Inf at LZ Baldy,
LZ Hawk Hill. Walked with various line units, worked with PFs/RFs and
5th ARVNs...spent a great deal of my time in the BTOC working as Arty
Liaison. Worked on LZ West with 4th Bn/31st Inf toward the end of my duty.
Managed a stand-down area for the last month or so in ChuLai. Known as
Rusty. SSG Todd Gatewood was looking for me. I tried to email him a message,
but it did not go through. Todd, if you see this, let me know. I know that this is a politically correct message board. But I'm
gonna say this anyway.For most of my life I've heard people make bad comments
about Vietnam Veterans.I guess that would include me. None of these people
that I know of ever served in Nam, they were at Yale or some such place.Some
years ago this country elected a draft dodging person that was too special
to serve his time in the service. It made my stomach actually turn. Well
I got past that. Now I see from the polls that 1/2 the nation supports
a person who claims I was a baby killing pot smoking executioner.The same
old sh** 35 years later. There has got to be some place on this planet
where an old vet can just go live in peace.It doesn't seem like too much
to ask. Looking for anyone who may have served with my husband, Robert (Bob)
Marler. He was a medic with the 196th, 3/21st, Co D. He was drafted in
October of 1965, Ft. Dix,NJ. He did his basic training at Ft. Devens,
Mass and specialized training at Ft. Drum,. NY. He went over to Viet Nam
aboard the Darby in July of 1966. He was in Tay Ninh and Operation Attleboro,
I believe. Unfortunately, Bob passed away in December of 2002. I miss
him very much. Thanks and God bless. I'm still looking for Randy Robertson we served togather. The last
time I checked in was a few years ago but I check this guest book daily.
A 2/1 197 LIB 67-68 Call sign CA10 I WAS IN THE 3/21, 196, CO. E, (RECON)DEC.1968 TO JAN. 1970. WE OPERATED
OUT OF HILL WEST & CENTER. WE HAD SOME GREAT GUYS IN OUR GROUP. I WOULD
LOVE TO SEE SOME OF MY OLD ARMY BUDS. WE WERE GOOD... The book,Illustrated History of Vietnam Chargers, by F Clifton Berry=
I got a copy=went to goolge advanced search and found a copy for sale.In
good conditions only $6.00 for book & shipping.Get Book all should have
a copy.Walked with 1st Platoon of B co 2nd Bn/1st Inf 196th joined at
Fort Deven in April of 1966 until returning to world in June of 1967 from
Chu Lai. Welcome Home All. Hope this note finds all in good health and
spirts. Don "Doc" OBrien I was just looking at the group photos of the reunion get together.How
did everyone get to be so old? You guys should have stayed young like
me. CALLING STEVE TANNER, COME IN!! You don't answer your e-mails. I
have some things to tell you. Your 196th. Brother, Denny Meet The WebMaster And Maybe Some Of The Filmers of films like (196th
Uncut)and other Movies Or Pictures On AclassicVoiceFilms.Com. Visit Here
@ 8 PM Nightly starting tonight,30/3/04. You never know who you may meet.
(CST)Thanks for all of your support and welcome home all. D. Garcia AclassicVoiceFilms.
Com. Goto http://www.aclassicvoicefilms.com/ and then proceed to
(ACVFChat@8pm) Page to partcipate.(CST) A South Vietnamese artillery salute and a Sousa march by the band
marked the finale. On August 11 the battalion officially stood down. Most
of the men were sent home - their DEROSs (date expected to return from
overseas) had finally arrived. Those with job specialties still needed
in Vietnam, and men with less than six months in-country were reassigned
to finish the remainder of their tours. On August 23, 1972, the 21st Infantry,
commanded by Lt. Col. Rocco Negris, was inactivated at Oakland, Calif.
The infantry war was over. I received this from Vance Van Wieren the glue that keeps Delta company
together. It is the web page for the 31st Infantry www.31stinfantry.org
"Pro Patria" Doc La Palio HHC,Delta,Charlie co's Senior Polar Bear 68-69 D 4/31:10/69-10-70. LZs Siberia & West. AO: Hiep Duc. CURRENTLY LIVING
IN SAIGON, VIETNAM. Have visited Hiep Duc 3 times I DONT KNOW WHAT UNIT YOU WERE WITH BUT WE DIDNT LEAVE TILL AUG OF
1972 BCO 3RD 21ST 196TH yesterday was the 30 year since we pulled the last of our combat
troops from the nam Checkout The Illustrated History of Charges by F Clinton Berry Jr.
Not bad and gives a good account of 196TH. Not sure where to get it-but
is a Bantam Book. Great item for the PX. Whalen 156TH Sig Plt 67-68. Life
is good! On LZ Center wounded May 12th,'69. From there I was sent to Da Nang.
I don't remember what Co. I was with. 3rd of the 21st, 196th, all I can
remember. As for as some names I remember: Some are last or first names
only. Gonzales, Atkins, Cpt. Brown. I might recall more if I heard them,
but I was only there for 23 days before I took two grenades and left the
hill. Anyone on Center before or about that time, please reply................Thanks! Jay, You are so correct with your information about the 196 LIB and
the 82nd. As a former "All American" and Charger/Gimlet I am well aware
of the orginal mission for the 196 LIB. I deployed for my second tour
with the Golden Brigade in Feb 1968. Thanks for letting the cat out of
the bag. lol Hey Brothers,I just recently found this site and joined the Association.
What a great welcome I got. I was in country 10/67 - 9/68 HHQ 4/31 commo,
any more commo guys from my time out there? i was a demo man from the 26th eng . i was at the opening up of lz
mary ann. went on somewalks with the 196 bri 1969-1970 I served w/HHC, 4/31 from Devens through January '67 when I transferred
into 8th Support - Awards and Decorations Section. Most of you may not
know it, but the Brigade was NOT scheduled to go to Vietnam. Our ORIGINAL
mission was to take part in a forgotten moment of American 1966 history.
The U.S. had the 82nd Airborne in DOMINICAN REPUBLIC to quiet down political
unrest. They were scheduled to rotate in Summer of '67 and we were to
replace them! I was involved in the planning of barracks accomodations
(HHC had an intelligence section of which I was a part). There was an
election held in the Spring of '66 that went the way Washington wanted
it to go. We were then redeployed to Vietnam. And there you have it! Jay
Brick, New York City I've read a bit about the ice cream fiasco. I've got a picture of
it, I'll be sending it off to Dave G. after recovering from minor wound,
a few of us were trying to get back to West. A pallet of 5 gal. boxes
of ice cream, we waited and waited..no birds! told everyone in rear to
help us eat it before it melts. I guess when you're stationed in the rear,
ice cream doesn't mean that much!! The few of us tried, but, most(120
gals.Melted where it stood). We got a flight out the next day, the looks
we got after telling our tale, were usually saved for the NVA.Pro Patria;
Ed. I was With C-4/31 From July 20 1968 To July 20 1969. I was in 2nd
platoon with SFC Robertson and LT Stan Cantrelle. Byron: would you rather assault an NVA bunker complex a)with or b)without
the fast movers? Actually I'd rather do neither. But now eating an ice
cream cone , I could dig that. My father's name is Richard P. Davis and he was in the Signal Platoon.
He was in vietnam more than once between 1965-1970 a has a Bronze Star
he was in communications. My pop is not interent savy so I am trying to
locate friends from the war. Anyone who wanting ro contact Richard P.
Davis please email me... Always had much respect for fast mover drivers. When I need tac air
you all were there! Made my days and nights a lot safer in the bush. Doc, 95th Vacuation Hosptial (Semi-Mobile) was located at Da Nang
under C&C of 67th MED Group it had over 300 beds by 1969. 312th Evacuation
Hosptial (Semi-Mobile)was located in Chu Lai and was an Army Reserve hospital
from North Carolina under C&C of 67th MED Group it had over 300 beds.
91st Evacuation Hospital (Semi-Mobile)was located in Chu Lai from July
1969 on. 27th Surgical Hospital (MASH) located at Chu Lai was assigned
to the Americal. 23d Medical Battalion supported the Americal. 2d Surg
was in Chu Lai as part of Task Force Oregon 1967 - 68. Another hospital
you might remember was 6th Convalescent Center in Cam Ranh this place
had over 1300 beds by 69. Then there was 3rd MAF in Da Nang if memory
serves me. Hope that help Doc. While denigrating REMFS and the Air force is a well-honed infantry
skill, consider this: would you rather assault an NVA bunker complex a)with
or b)without the fast movers? In May of '68 A 4/31 tried it both ways.
Option a was best. Does anybody remember the names of the Evac hospitals that we sent
our people to? Somehow the 95th Evac sounds familiar Do they have a web
site? I wonder if they would be interested in coming to he reunion in
San Antonio? Doc La Palio HHC,Delta,Charlie Co's 68-69 YEP;THEY WERE IN THERE OWN LITTLE WORLD THERE BUT I GUESS ID STILL
WOULD HAVE RATHER BEEN OUT IN THE BUSH NOT AS MANY 122S FALLING ON OUR
HEADS OR MORTERS THEY SURE LIKED TO PELT THAT AIR BASE EVERY DAY.AT LEAST
WE GOT A LITTLE REST ONCE IN A WHILE RIGHT. Mike Cambell: "How was the icecream" that's funny. I recall getting
down to the airstrip once, went to the rec room by the Base. An Airforce
guy there looked at my patch and asked about our unit. I told him a little.
Then he asked where we stayed. I said out in the jungle, on the ground
, in a hammock, wherever we could. Every month or so they let us come
in for a day or two. I said that's why I'm here today. His mouth actually
dropped. He couldn't believe it.I couldn't believe that nobody knew that's
how us Infantry guys lived. I am trying to get info for my father who served in vietnam during
Sep 1967-Sep 1968. His name is Angel Velez Jr from San Antonio, TX. He
was assigned to B Company, 8th Support, 196th Infantry and was stationed
in and around Cam Rhan Bay and Chu Li. Later, he was reassigned to the
Americal Division as "support" doing duty convoys, patrolling around villages,and
perimeter patrols. My father hardly talks about his time in Vietnam. I
am finally getting this much info due to his being diagnosed with PTSD
this year by the VA. Any info that can help me better understand what
happened to my father would be greatly appreciated. God Bless and thank
you for your time. Nancy Velez welcome back jack im just one of the guy that protected you from
those big hills to the west how was the icecream! I SERVED IN THE USAF AT DANANG AB,VIETNAM,FROM 1968-1969..I GOT THERE
THE DAY OF TET,,,MY LITTLE BROTHER ALSO SERVED TWO YRS IN VIETNAM...EVERY
TIME I SEE ANOTHER VET I TRY AND TALK TO THE,,,FEEL FREE TO REPLY HOPE
UALL HAVE A GREAT DAY JACK O. GILLILAND JR 1968-1969 VIETNAM USAF JOHN; GO to www.gimlet321.com Scrol down all the patches are there
to copy most of web site is dead. Marty (Mouse) Joyce is looking for guys he served with January 68
till May 68 3/21 Delta company. That was patch. Sorry for the poor grammar. Looking for my uncle Marty Joyce. Served with the 3/21 in 68 with
Delta (BLACK DEATH). He is looking in particular for the black death path
of his outfit. Any help? Maps of the 196th Light Infantry Brigade area of operation (AO) during
the first eight months in Vietnam are now on the website of Troop "F"
17th Cavalry (Recon). They cover not only the local Tay Ninh area, but
the area from War Zone C down to south and east of Cu Chi, encompassing
all or most of the locations in which we operated during Oper- ations
Attleboro, Gadsden, Cedar Falls, Junction City I and II and smaller operations
in between the major efforts. The maps may be found at www.ftrp17cav196.com....just
click on the link. I was in RVN from 2/68 to 1/69. C 2/1 196th as the company clerk.
I am looking for George Marquez from Denver, CO. As all of you know, with
the passage of time, so goes the memory. I am glad that I found this site Hi to all the guys who served in company C 3rd of the 21st from Fort
Devens to Tay Nin. Was drafted October 1965 entered Army at Fort Dix.
Took basic at Fort Devens with C Company 3rd platoon. Shipped out of Bost
for the Nam on the Alexander M. Patch, along with her sister ship the
William F, Darby. Was transfered to the 25th Infantry in January 1967.
Wounded on January 18th, 1967. Sent to Walson Army Hospital at Fort Dix
New Jersey. Since my name never appeared in the 196 Year Book, thought
I set the records straight. Hope to hear from some old friends. Link Repaired http://www.aclassicvoicefilms.com/196thruckup.htm Anyone from C 3/21/196th 68/69 remember Dave Romney. I would like
to locate him as we were together in the Nam. I thought he was from California
but not quite sure. Welcome home brothers Dave Frierson C 3/21/196th 5/68-5/69 Any one know of Ricky Bell (mad dog) From Atlanta Georgia D co 3/21/196
69,70? Looking for info on Barry LeFever. Served in killer platoon d co
3/21/196 1969,70. From Michigan I think. Roger Bennett Served with 3/21st company C 3rd Platoon. Was with 196th from the
very start took training at Fort Devens, shipped out from Boston on the
USNS ALexander M. Patch. Served in Tay-Nin, later transfered to 25th Div.
wounded on 01/18/67 sent to Walson Army Hospital Fort Dix, New Jersey.
Hi to anyone who remembers me! Served whith 4/31 196th in 1968 just found your site good work. I have posted the 175th flag on the 87th Eng site. Check in and leave
a note. Here is the site address http://87theng.smugmug.com/John Ken McParland......Ken Black is the friend I am trying to help in
his search to find Pvt. Black. I will be sure and tell him that you have
been incredibly helpful to me in the search. Thank you, God bless you
and welcome home. >>>> James Meyer - I sent you an email yesterday to the email address
you have listed with you post on the Guestboard. - - - - - - - - - - If
you got it respond to my email so I know you received it thanx - Jack Looking for news paper clippings of the 196th in vietnam. If you
have some please contact me. Thank you. http://www.aclassicvoicefilms.com Jennifer, I emailed you about Ken Black, I know him, I just found
out that a platoon frome A. Co. was with recon when it got hit Apr. 13,
1968. You will be getting more info from other guys in recon. Mac to jack krohn. Jack, i remember Freddie Lavasari. When we went out
as a platoon the Lt usually had me walk point (it was more like run) until
i dropped, then he would take over. I would then end up on drag with larry
fetchik. i tried to email you but it did't go thru. you can write me at
937 echo st, celina, oh 45822. your pics were cool. i had a camera but
some arvn stole it. anyway it was good hearing from you man. to jack krohn, man i remember freddie lavasari i think he was from
brooklyn ny. i tried to email you but it did'nt go thru. your pics were
good. don't know if you remeber me, i walked point (although it was more
like run) until i dropped. then the lt would take over. if you wish you
can write me. my address is 937 echo st, celina, oh 45822. Ft. Sam is the home of the Medical Corps , most of us trained there
after basic to be medics I want to ask all Medics and Doctors to make
an effort to be in San Antonio for the 2005 reunion I am trying to help a friend locate a soldier he served with in Vietnam.
I don't have the soldiers first name but his last name is White, Pvt.
He was with the 3rd and 21st alpha 196 Light Infantry Brigade. He was
wounded in the arm on April 13, 1968 and helped by a soldier named Ken
Black from Kentucky. If anyone has any info I can use to help locate Pvt.
White it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much. Co B, 4/31st. Nov 68-69 LZ West, Siberia, Nui Chom, Hiep Duc Valley I SERVED WITH THE 11th LIB JUST SOUTH OF YOU. Report from the front - Subject: Show of Force - So we are up in
the mountains of Afghanistan at about 0100 hrs looking for a bad guy that
we thought was in the area. There are ten of us, pitch black, crystal
clear night, about 25 degrees. We know there are bad guys in the area,
a few shots have been fired but no big deal. We decide that we need air
cover and the only thing in the area is a solo B-1 bomber. He flies around
at about 20,000 feet and tells us there is nothing in the area. He then
asks if we would like a low level show of force. Stupid question. Of course
we tell him yes. The air controller who is attached to the team then is
heard talking to the pilot. Pilot asks if we want it subsonic or supersonic.
Very stupid question. Of course we want him fast. Pilot advises he is
twenty miles out and to stand by. The controller gets us all sitting down
in a line and points out the proper location to look. You have to picture
this... Pitch black, ten killers sitting down, dead quiet and overlooking
this valley that is about 30 mile long. All of a sudden, way out (below
our level) you see a set of four 200' long white flames coming at us.
The controller says, "Ah-- guys-- you might want to plug your ears". Faster
than you can think, a B-1, supersonic, 1000' over our heads, blasts the
sound barrier and it feels like God just hit you in the head with a hammer.
He then stands it straight up with 4 white trails of flame coming out
the afterburners and disappears. Cost of gas for that show of force....
$5,000 Hearing damage: For certain Bunch of ragheads thinking twice about
shooting at us: Priceless Hey great site, I was with B 4/31 196th Inf Bde Americal Div. 11-70
to 6-71, Chu Lai, LZ West, Siberia, Da Nang, I have been in contact with
SSG Stan (Rosie) Rosenstien, SGT Bruce (bad ass) Fulton, Leo (grampa)
Bourdelais. I am looking for Gary Kromenacker, Doc Brochard, Jack Rowley,
Krechi, Jack Lambert, Lt.(Lt. Fuzz)Walsh, SGT Hatcher, Tucker on 81mm
mortars on LZ West. our pointman Kabot. Taco, Ruiz, Lewis (Shakey), Wilson,
Mike Miller. I've got a bunch of people photos from the bush, LZ West,
Company and Platoon photos in Da Nang, be glad to send them to any of
you. Replace the "at" in my email address with @ and "re:B 4/31st" in
the subject line. Hope to hear from any of you. Regards to all. Al James Meyer- wrote: "I was in Alpha Co. 3/21 in 1971. would like
to hear from anyone who remembers. ptl sgt was "Woody", remember larry
fetchik, dale schluckbeir and terry fultz." James- I tried to send you
an email but it kicked back? I was there is 71- I was in 1stSquad, 1stPlatoon,
Lt.Betchler was our Plt.Ldr.- I was medivaced out two days before typhoon
Hester hit. Through the years I've downloaded a bunch of the maps of our
AO- the aviation quads and I have the map of the QueSon valley that has
most of the fire bases posted on it- I've also posted a bunch of my pictures
in an on-line photo album. I'm the tall one in the 1st pic standing next
to Jim Brewer(humpin the 60) the guy in the back left is Freddy Laz??(humped
the thumper). If you see this drop me an email... here's the URLs to the
pix I do remember the 196th at Fort Devens, MA. A friend of my parents
was a member of the 196th when he retired from them, he became a Probation
Officer in VT. I SERVED WITH THE NINTH INFANRTY DIVISION AND I HAVE JUST LOCATED
THIS SITE, AND I JUST WANTED TO SAY I HAVE ENJOYED IT. HELLO BROTHERS: I AM LOOKING FOR ANYONE OR ANY INFORMATION ON MY
BROTHER, JEFFERY OQUIST,196TH LIGHT INFANTRY. I DO NOT HAVE A LOT OF INFORMATION
ON HIS UNIT OR HIS TIME IN COUNTRY. FOR THOSE OF YOU THAT KNEW HIM, I
AM SORRY TO SAY HE PASSED AWAY 18/FEB/04. ANY INFORMATION OR ANY CONTACT
WITH HIS UNIT WOULD BE APPRECIATED. BROTHER STEVE I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE FOUR MEN MIA FROM APIRL OF 1967
AT THE TIME THAT I WAS WITH THE 196TH 1966 TO 1967 ANY INFORMATION Looking for anyone who served with Robert D. Blea K.I.A.01-10 68
-Co A 21st 3d Battlion Inf.196th Lt Inf Bde. Would like to know what happened
the day before and the day of his death. Blea was from Denver, Co. Blea
was a close friend of mine. Trying to keep his memory alive. I am also
a Nam vet. I'm not writing a book, just trying to have a history , if
you have any pictures of him , please let me know . Thank you I was with the 3/82arty i 70-71 and served as an FO and a Bn Liaison
Officer w/ 2/1. I'd be interesting in hearing from anyone else who served
with me. Looking for Rich Allen or Vic or anyone else that was in Phu Bi 1972,
also Teswell I SERVED WITH C CO. 723 MAINT BN FROM MARCH 1969 TO MARCH 1970 ON
LZ BALDY AND LZ HAWK HILL. WE WERE ATTACHED TO THE 196TH BUT I DID NOT
SEE US LISTED ON YOUR ORDER OF BATTLE UNDER SUPPORT. Have had several inquiries on where and when the next reunion will
be -- can any of the Association Officers give us a hint of what cities
are being considered. ( I just wanted to post a notice and THANK Dave Garica, Jack Krohn,Doug
Bates,Hal Laffin,Mike Campbell,Ronald Davis,Wayne Barksdale, and others
for there info pictures and there help and support. I like alot of others
have stuffed my feeling and memorys for over 30 yrs and thanks to this
site and some awsome people I have been able to weather the storm and
deal with some personal issues. And most of all I want to thank my fiancee
Marg VanNeidek, for her understanding and for taking the time to stick
with me through these times.And sometimes just being there to hold me!
I have never had this before! Thanks again for this site and for your
friendship and support. Welcome home brothers to the WORLD!!!! Dave "Animal" still looking for more men from B & C co. 3/21 196---10/68-9/69 .
ED stich--your e-mail has changed since 2002. couldn't reach you. welcome
home brothers No Dave , wasn't talking about you. I did look at your "the end"
video. Good production. I would edit down the volume on the m-60 and fade
the special effects in slowly on the chopper shots and maybe add them
to a few other shots. But heck that's all an artistic call, and an artist
I'm not. Looking for anyone that served with me B-Btry,3/82FA,Feb 68 thru
Feb 69.LZ Center.Mike Rosa,Bear from Chicago,Lopez, Tanner,Ect. I am looking for a Jere Riggs who was a member of 4/31 in HHC and
was an original with the 196th. He and I served in the 196th but also
attended Advanced Course, Mata and DLI. Please get in touch with me. You
can also contact me at my e mail address by searching thru the Archives.
Thanks. I was part of the original reactivation of the 196th. Drafted Oct.'65
seperated July '67 served in D co 3/21. Looking for anyone I may have
served with. Tom "Tom Thumb" Swigert of Echo Recon, 2/1, 1970, where are you. Looking for Bill (Billy) Adams with 4/31 Nam, early 66-68. I think
he was in motor pool. Are you out there Billy? Denny It would be my honorable pleasure to put your personal pictures of
your experience in the 196th LIB. Please help me to make this special
dedicated page mean something. I am putting this page together from my
website in honor of my father SFC "Corky" Garcia which is a proud member
of the 196th story. Thank You and God bless all. To Visit Goto: http://www.aclassicvoicefilms.com/196thruckup.htm
I am looking for anyone who served with 1st Lt. Robert Russell Lewis
of the 196th. He was born and raised in Pierre South Dakota, and killed
in action 10 January, 1968. I am his son, and know little of his life
and nothing of his service or death. Thank you. -trebor Bill, Two "LZ Leslie" listed: AT979307 & BR534973. The first was
located about 33km WNW Tam Ky; the second was 31km NE Ha Tay (54km N of
An Khe). Don't know which you might be interested. Bill Russell, Thanks I have Tony's E-mail address and have e-mailed
him, but have not heard anything from him. Also I tried, per your request,
to e-mail you my address and it would not go through I kept getting an
error. Peggy My full e-mail address:Rwill60@aol.com left the aol.com tag off Does anyone know how to contact Tony May of 196 locate a brother?
Peggy's question about a map reminded me he gave me in 1988 a 1:50000
copy of two full sheets named Hiep Duc, and Tam Ky. They had drawn in
all the fire bases,and lzs.The only one I didn't see was Lz Leslie,which
I think was overrun(1st Cav.)Idon't want to make copies if his group is
selling these.Excellent maps. I was in Alpha Co. 3/21 in 1971. would like to hear from anyone who
remembers. ptl sgt was "Woody", remember larry fetchik, dale schluckbeir
and terry fultz. Looking for anyone with photos from LZ West,LZ Siberia,Qua Son Valley
from 10/69 to 10/70. Echo Co.....recon 4/31. Trying to find out whatever
happened to PFC Kim Johnson and Squad Leader Sgt. Simpson. Just can't
remember all of the names of the guys I served with. Searching for a guy
from Cleveland, Ohio, who was on a radar unit that picked up movement.
Last seen, late 70's early 80's working at SOHIO gas station at W.117th
St. and Trisket Ave. in Cleveland, Ohio. C 2/1 Inf, Aug. 1970-Aug. 1971: If you served with this unit any
time between those dates, we're having another reunion in Highland Beach,
FL from July 7, 2004-July 11, 2004. If you'd like to come, please contact
me. Hey D 4/31 HELP! Last summer at the reunion in Branson, someone at
your table had a map with the grids across the top and down the side,
does anyone know where it came from or where I might contact to order?
Any help really appreciated. Thanks Jake44, lost picture you sent me of platoon, please send it again.
Will contact you when I get your correct E-mail address. Go on a hump with the 196th in Chu~Lai 1970 http://aclassicvoicefilms.com
- under amatuer movies Are you in this movie? Looking for any info on Sgt. James C. Allen from Michigan. He served
in country with me from 5/67 to 5/68. We were in 3rd squad, 3rd platoon
Alpha Co. 4/31 196 LIB, Sgt William (bill) Hall C 3/21st, Aug 1971- Jul 1972 Would like to hear from anyone to discuss
the good, the bad, and the ugly. I WAS IN VIETNAM FROM JULY '71 THRU APRIL '72 I WAS ON LZ MAUDE,
FIREBASE RAWHIDE, CHARLIE RIDGE, RIDGELINE, ETC I WAS WITH A FOUR-DUECE
MORTAR SQUAD ON LZ MAUDE AND LATER HUMPED 81 MM'S IN THE BUSH. I'M LOOKING
FOR ANYONE FROM THAT TIME AND PLACES. RAYBON FROM CHICAGO, GEORGE MITCHELL
FROM FLORIDA, PONCHO ZAVALA AND OTHERS. BASIC TRAINING AND AIT AT FORT
LEWIS, WA ( 11C ) Jerry J. Johnson, please e - mail me to be hooked up to many of your
3rd. platoon buddies from Delta - 4/31st 196th. Jim Brock, Gary Folk,
Jake Van Loon, John Kisner, Ed Clinger, Lt. Wilson, Lt. Lenheim & more.
I tried your e - mail but it does not work. God bless you & your loved
ones. Vance A. van Wieren - Delta - 4/31 Base Camp, 6654 -122nd. Ave.
Fennville, MI. 49408 vw196nam@i2k.com or 269 - 543 - 3661 To Chuck Reed; Thank you very much for your addition to the guestbook.
You ar right on, politics does drive war, always has, always will!! In answer to Gen (Ret) Rocco Negris, I served with him in Task Force
Gimlet. Last Time I heard from him this was his address 37 Meetinghouse
Court, Indian Mills, NJ 08088 is there anybody from 4/31 lib from bravo co. March67 to sept.67..
during the time we lose Mangino,nidds an two other.... (Editor's
note: There is an article on this incident in the latest Vietnam
magazine) I was in A 4/31 196th May-Nov, 68. I was touched by the video "The
End" I have pictures of LZ West and surrounding area, with many of our
196th brothers. Get in touch, I can scan and E-mail pictures if you are
interested. Jim "Guner Wil" Willard http://www.usvetdsp.com/jf_kerry.htm Just viewed the film clip "The End" Good clip. I served with Bco.
1/6 198 as 11B from 7/69/to 7/70 in and around Chu Lai, Laos etc. Just
saying hi to everyone. Let us not forget all our friends--still here--and
gone. Message for Mitchell Leeds. Hey Mitch, is that your comments in our
Guest Book?? E-Mail still - kitcarsonscout@hotmail.com?? Again, this is the 196th LIB Guest Book not a political form to promote
candidates running for office! C 3/21 68-69 Please keep the politics out of this site! They serve
no purpose here. This is about brothers touching brothers. I have lost
touch with Dave Frierson and would like to find him here, or any other
brothers who may have served with me. SSgt. Gene Wells KIA I/7/1970 Does anyone know him or have any pictures
of him or the area where he served. I will be visiting his widow this
coming week 2/17/2004. Gene and I grew up together and he was also my
cousin. We both went to Vietnam as 11B's. I came home in Nov 69 he came
home KIA. Please if anyone has pictures of him contact me. Brothers, My support for JFK, is based on his Silver Star, Bronze
Star and triple Purple Heart decorations. If these things offend you,
I apologize. I figure a man that served in Vietnam as opposed to a man
who served a political campaign during his reserve duty made a difference.
But what do I know, I'm just a grunt from La., a redneck with a friend
that served in the Brown-Water Navy. It don't mean nothin'. Politics can
never override the brotherhood. However, never under estimate politics
when it comes to war. Politics decided our war, and is driving the current
one in Iraq. Chuck "Indianhead" Reed, 4/31, 70-71 Dave, Big business is Greed, with all the all the corruption it
breeds. Sincerely; Ed. Was with A Co 2/1 196th LIB from April to Oct of 67 with the Mortar
Plt at Chu Lai. I moved from Tay Nin City to Chu Lai. Anyone that was
with the Company at that time Please send me an Email. Had a lot of problem
in 68 at Ft. Dix,NJ and now trying to get my benefits from the VA. This tangle of politics/big business has been screwing up This Country
for years. What compelled a former 5 star Gen. to send Advisors(A.R.V.N.platoon
leaders)running patrols, to a jungle enviorment. He knew ;Guam,Corrigdor
and the whole Pacific battle. Advisors is a poor Military choice,especially
when you're facing a million enemy troops. Intellegence,was looking the
wrong, how could they not forsee, the build up to follow??It's big business
that has the political bunch,dancing on the end of a string. Pro Patria;Ed. Hi all,first of all I want to thank all of you for protecting my
freedom, God bless ya. I was wondering if any of you might have served
with my Dad, his name is Charles Selby, from Michigan. He was in the 196th
LIB in the late 60s possibly early 70s. Any help would be appreciated. Trying to put together some pictures for my kids to have of where
we were in the 'Nam. I'll be glad to scan some of mine to send back. My
tour was with 2/1 from July '71 to late June '72. Particularly looking
for pictures of FSB's Chloe, Rawhide, Maude, and Linda. Thanks for the
help! I have just submitted an entry and I want to give further details
to assist in getting my father information. He served with F-Troop 17th
Armor Cav, 1st Platoon, LZ Baldi, Firebase Karen, served on 18 Track A.P.C.
Thank you for any information! I am seeking information for my father (Michael Swartchick Sr) His
call name was MANIAC. He served his second tour in 1968-1969. He is looking
for contact information of his boys who served with him. They are as follows:
Harvey Sexton, Hippy, Virgil, Tex, Frenchy, Hill-Billy, Chief. It would
mean so much to my father if anyone can help. Please e-mail me with any
information so I can give it to my father. God Bless you all!!!! As Warren mentioned earlier this is a guestbook for the 196 LIB Association
not a political forum for John Kerry. So, let's keep the politics out
of our guestbook. Mitch, Im sorry to hear about General Negris problem. I have been trying to watch all the Dems. running for President and
I have to wonder about 2 of them. Wes. Clark, why was he fired from the
Clinton Administration? And Howard Dean, had a "bad back" and could not
go into the military, however he was seen sking down the slopes twisting
turning, etc. John Kerry is the only true Vietnam vet that should be in
the White House, think about it fellow 196er's. Vote Kerry. Would like to here from any "Bushmasters" from B co. 3/21 who served
in Nam in or about 71. Hang in thre brothers! Welcome back to the WORLD!!!
"Animal" Any one know a (at the time) SSG Cornelius "Corky" Garcia that was
in Chu Lai, (1970) A.Co. 2/1 196th LIB. Plt Sgt. Please E- Mail me (dgarcia@everestkc.net)
I have a film located on the internet @ http://aclassicvoicefilms.com/
under amatuer movies. If you go and view Please sign the guest book. Thanks. Mike, GEN Negris, as far as I know does not have an e-mail address.
He is battling cancer and does not engage in much in the way of veteran
activites. Joe Britton, were you able to find the site OK? Denny. Anyone know where I can get Rocco C Negris e-mail address? He was
a 196th battalion C.O. at one time . He retired a Brigadier (sp). I need
to ask the man a question. Brock, I remember Sgt Roy Bright. We "met" during a police call back
at one of the processing centers in country. We shared our our like/dislike
for the use of the word "boy". That should be understood, he being from
Little Rock, me being from Spanish Harlem. We met D Co while they were
on stand down after the big battle up in Nui Chom and was choppered in
to join them when they went back up. Our new CO Capt Whitticar arrived
around the same time. Despite our start Roy and I got to know each other
and talk about life beyond what was happening at that moment. He told
me that he was going to get a 'Vette when he returned to The World. I
didn't even know what a Razorback was until he "schooled" me. Nam impacted
in beaucoup ways! His death really hurt and I'm sure in his case you understood
why. I'm sorry I don"t have any personal family information to give to
you but I saw your e-mail and wanted to let you know that Roy and his
"Bright" smile is not forgotten. I have a picture of the 3rd platoon when
we were starting to build LZ Baldy. I'd like to send you a copy. Hey,
I remember you too. Peace and all the best to you, Jerry Johnson. I agree in principle that this web site is primarily for establishing
contact with one another, however, I do find it encouraging to see Vietnam
Vets taking an active interest in politics. Our collective political apathy
has not proven useful to our cause of ensuring our disabled brother's
receive thier proper due. What's with all political crap,American Military has been involved
in revolution, war,police actions and illeagal invasions since the First
President. "Meet the new Boss;He's the same as the Old Boss" "We don't
get fooled again" THE WHO, Pro Patria, Ed. Does anyone have Army Aviation News copies for late 1967 - 1968.
Looking for awards/decoration notices for 196th LIB members esp Bronze
Stars. Looking for BS notice for Simpers, Van Duzee, and Simpier. Looking for sp/4 Ramon Aviles (El Boto), Commo Section, HHC 196th,
Hawk Hill/Danang.After 'Nam he was stationed at Honor Guard Duty stationed
in Virginia. I'am a retired First Sergeant and served with Co C, 2nd Bn, 1st Inf,
196th Light Inf. I was in Viet Nam in 1971 1972. Be interest in finding
any former members of my platoon. I was a Staff Sgt at that time and I
was the platoon leader. Also, interested in any family members of Cpl
Dourty a team leader who lost his life while under my command in combat. They sure were right about you guys from 67/68 LARRY proves it so
long!!!!! Any location on Gus Mehrer-POW? I left a message on here about my service in Viet Nam, from Jan.1971
to Dec. 1971 in the 196th. If anyone knows of Cpt. Cregor,Major Harrington,
Lt. Bailey Please call or e-mail me! My #509-586-6773 Was grunt and RTO
in the CP hoping to find some old friends. Thanks and God Bless! Dave
{Animal} I served with the 196th as RTO in Brovo Company from Jan.1971 to
Dec.1971. First out of Chu Lui and LZ Center, then moved to Da Nang and
LZ 510. I hope to find some of my brothers I served with through this
web site. Please feel free to contact me. Thanks and Peace. Support our
Troops!!! Animal I also agree with Warren and Bill. I check this to look for brothers.
If you want a chat room go elsewhere. Many of us don't have the time to
wade thru the crap to get to the new listings. Thanks Looking for brothers from B Btry 3/16 FA 1970---1971 Thien Phouc
and LZ Mary Ann. Where did you go? Hello Brothers: I am hoping to hear from guys who were in E Co. 2/1
from 3/68-3/69 in the 4 deuce mortar squad. thanks Warren. I myself am very political, but not on this site,
ever. Hey guys! This is supposed to be a guestbook for leaving messages
so folks can get in touch and stay in touch. It was never intended to
be a chat room or political forum. If one of the brothers snags your tripwire
take it up with him personally. That's why we ask you to leave your email
address so you can be responded to directly. Thanks for your consideration.
In reagards about the medals and all the political ranting on our
site.I agree with you Mike and I don't remember the dems thinking about
Clintons draft dodging or protesting in Eurpoe and England and I was a
dem all those years too. Sick of the liberals telling me how to act! And
nope, no medals here either.Just spent my time in the jungles for a year
on the ground as a draftee like most and damn proud of it too. Sgt.Marty CHARLES;I had all the good men i needed to cover my ass NEVER! LOST
one read the other posts (lottery) numbers played a big roll back then.At
least bush had the guts to go in air guard with his high number and not
protest the war like kerry check the facts. yes kerry was over there but
ask him for records for medals why he got them an for what and from who.You
know as well as i that medals were handed out to some off.so they could
clime the ladder faster or because they knew someone . and it still goes
on today! we did our job we did it well with out medals we came home home
and we dont flash what we did to getahead like the dem.seem to do and
always ask us for favors then cut what benfits we have. check the records
they tell everything . Mike, if you want BUSH ALL THE WAY, just remember that tocover your
rear, it's a long way to lay down any cover fire from Texas!!!! 1968-69 in the Commo Unit of the 196th HDQ Company. LZ Baldy, Chu
Lai, Tam Ky, Hue, and few other places. Just looking for Gramps, Tice,
Jaffe, Ski.. and few others. Remember Sgt. Lumpy? Thank you for your service to this great nation. Eric L. Williams
CDR, 3rd BN, 196th IN (Guam) Dear Mike. We who were "one of us" know it! We never turned our
backs toward any enemy. If we got run off a hill, we regrouped and attacked
incessently, until we took it!!. I look at the dates on my awards, it's
funny but they coincide with every mission we were involved in. I have
been corrosponding with LT. Mansfield, providing info to check the official
rrecords; they missed a lot, but the Lt. thinks my info accurate. I was
involved in every action of A-4-31, 2nd. plt. 2nd. squad from nov. 67-11/68,
Point man 3 mos. thumper 2 mos. Fire team leader, at the ridge??Keep the
faith, We Know who wwe are Pro Patria Ed. From what he says every time a firefight came up his boat went the
other way. He may have got medals but it wasnt for what he did its was
for who he was!then to take money from jane fonda to protest while we
were still sweaten our balls off. well you figure it out.the way i look
at it you still stick up for your BUDDYS doing there job good ,bad,or
indiffernt. the jane fonda thing still sticks in me the wrong way an ill
never forget it!!!!!!! Served with Delta "Black Death" Kelso Plt. 1969-1970. 3-21st 196th.
Hey Montana, Danny, Stretch, Gene, john Wayne, Dyson, any of You guys
there give me a shout! Dyson's former RTO. Kerry only does something that helps him-there is a Nam Viet shelter
3 blocks from his wife's $10,000,000 mansion and he has never been there.
We call him "Live Shoot"-only there for the photo opps. Would like to
hear the "Other Side" of the boat thing. I happen to know guy who was aboard his river boat and what there
reporting about kerrys time in viet nam should be checked out.an mike
ask pres.bush what his lottery number was mine was lower than his and
i wouldent have had to go but i did it and dam proud that i did ! Since I wrote in support of Sen. John Kerry, I've received some interesting
correspondance. Some for Kerry, some against. I've enjoyed them all. It's
good to see my brothers involved, and even better to hear from y'all.
I emailed Peggy (see message below) a copy of a newspaper column my wife
wrote in memory of Lt. Bromley Howard German Co. C 2/1 (KIA '68 in Hiep
Duc Valley) which orginated at our reunion in Branson. My wife met Lt.
German's childhood sweetheart who attended our reunion in his memory.
If you want to read something that will move you, email me and I'll send
it on. Chuck "Indianhead" Reed, 4/31 70-71 The difference between Bush, Clinton and Kerry. Clinton simply was
a draft dogger, Bush avoided the draft by joining the Air National Guard
and Kerry avoided the draft by joining and serving in Vietnam. Why in the world would we ever back a dem.when year after year they
look at cutting our programs an moneys at the V.A.8yrs of clinton proved
that.I just started getting help at the va.they wouldent even see me in
90s to ****WITH kerry,dean,clark (hide in the hooch)itsBUSH ALL THE WAY. For Chuck Reed in regards to Kerry "being one of us". http://www.usvetdsp.com/jf_kerry.htm I am looking for anyone who remembers Lyle Tiili. He was assigned
to 3rd Battlion, 82nd Artillary, B Battery, D Company. If anyone recalls
being in Vietnam with him please reply. Thank you. Was in HHB 3/82 from Aug.68 to Oct.69. LZ Baldy If you didn't get home with your dog tags, there are at least two
places on the web which have lists of hundreds of found ones or ones that
were bought at Vietnamese souvenir shops. www.canamission.com and www.founddogtags.com.
2/1, '65-'67 Happy Tet-156 Sig Plt. 67-68 Looking for all men who served with Delta - 4/31 & HHC - 4/31. 196th.
Lt. Anderson - 70 & 71, 2nd. Plt. Sgt. Phillip Madlang - 69, Lt. Tierney
- 68 ( FO ) Beadle Bailey - 68 & 69, 2nd. platoon gun Sq. Capt. Solo -
66 & 67, Capt. Baxter - 71, Medic's, F O's, Chaplains, 1966 Boat People
to Stand down 10/71. We have contacted approx. 450 of the guys and about
370 are on a current roster. Contact Vance A. van Wieren 6654 - 122nd.
Ave. Fennville, MI. 49408 or 269 - 543 - 3661 or vw196nam@i2k.com Welcome
home my Brothers and may God richly bless you & your loved ones. Maybe if some script was added to the message board program that
needed the word Vietnam or some such word to post a message. It might
reduce the amount of spam. Regular visitors could be prompted at top of
screen to include the word Vietnam in post to make it work. lOL , or some
such thing. I'm not computer literate enough to know how message boards
really work. Hope the new year finds everyone well. I served with B 3/82 arty
67/68. Heard that center was over run sometime after I left B battery,
any info would be great. Danny Jordan Brothers, Forgive me please for sending a political message. However,
I feel a heart-felt passion to give a call to arms for one of our own.
U.S. Senator John Kerry. It appears we will come out of Iowa with momentum
in the Democratic nomination. John is one of us, and I believe we should
give our efforts to his candidacy. Please consider the Silver and Bronze
Star and Purple Heart bearer. Although I'm from the South, I can work
like a mule for this man from Mass. Join me. Chuck "Indianhead" Reed,
4/31, 196th LIB, Americal 70-71 Hammond, La. I served with Co.A 3/21 196th between July 23, 1968 to July 23, 1969.
I was called "ski". I manned a M60. I left the field as a rep on Baldy
chopper pad in the month of April 1969. If you remember me and served
with my Company or platoon, write to my email address. Glad to see and
hear that all of you commrades are doing alright. I served with HHQ on LZ Center from Feb. 1970-Mar. 1971 as a cook
in the mess. I am interested in finding any old buddies that may remember
me. Especially looking for "big Red" ( Jim Addair). Please contact me
if you remember me. D 3/21 68,69 I come in from time to time reading what all my brothers
post. And as its another new year I hope to find some of my old friends
in cyber space. You guys stay dry and keep the faith. Mark Something seems wrong guys. I'm not talking about the guys here or
this site.Please don't misunderstand.As Vietnam Vets we can , if anyone
can , know what it's like to be brothers.To be different. We are different.On
some sites (not this one) we are becoming like the people we never wanted
to become. I would hate to see "them" break us up.They spent over 30 years
trying to break us, and in some places they seem to be succeeding.Maybe(
in fact I'm sure)I'm not coming across right about this but at least I
know what I mean, lol.Hang in there, I'm not joining "them".Screw them.
Mike A/ 3/21st 196th I would like to hear from somebody who was on 196th. LIB, 2/1, in
Vietnam from Auguts 1970 thru August 1971. I was a PFC; got hit by bobby
trap on Oct.1971 and caught Malaria on Dec. 1970. JUST GIVING NEW EMAIL HOPE EVERYONE DOING WELL THIS NEW YEAR GOD
BLESS! Hello, i am trying to learn information about Bill Weleski (Martin
W.)who was in the 196th LIB, specifically the A 3/21. Any information
about his activities in Vietnam prior to his death, the location of his
death and information about the battle. i am going to Vietnam in March
and plan to visit the site where he died, if possible. Bill was a high
school friend. Thank you. Bud Walkup bill, i just found out you were not feeling well. sorry i didn't
know. hope you are feeling better soon.i will give you a call soon. take
care of yourself ,i will see you at the next reunion where ever it is.
Hope everyone is enjoying the New Year. I am so thankful for all
of your thoughts and prayers while Bill was in the hospital. We are now
at the 1 Month marker. Bill will have at least 2 more months of rehab.
He is hard to keep down and a little impatient. I am so grateful to have
him here with me. The kids (Bub & Sis) as you all know them have been
wonderful and a big help. It was hard for them to see their Dad sick.
(I am usually the sickly one.)I can not thank our 196 family enough for
all of your thoughts, prayers and telephone calls. Please keep us in your
prayers. Di Knight I'm sorry to say, but we A/4/31, responded to the ambush of "C/2/1,
in the trench. See entry from "Peggy" below. It was one hell of a fight,happy
to hear from survivors, I know what you guys went through, God Bless All,
those still with us,and the Heroes, we lost. Pro Patria; Ed. Anyone remember either SSGT Norbert Holzapfel or SSGT Donald Alvis
KIA 2/9/68 just west of Da Nang 2/1 C Co. Not sure which one I was with.
Was with one of them when they got hit. Sniper jumped up out of a hole
in front. There were only 4 or 5 of us left out in the paddy (punge,phil,and
someone else besides me. Just wondering. Think about him alot. He was
going on RR to meet his wife in a week or so. thanks I was in A/2/1 in 67 68 does anyone remember me A Friend of mine, Ray Fuller, is looking for his Captain. The only
information he has given me is that his Captain's name was Captain Jones,
Charlie Company C 3/21 196LIB 70-71. If anyone can help please contact
me. Thank you Does anyone remember a chinook going down in July 1970 killing 26
soldiers? I was in the 1/46yh 196th D comoany 1969 to 1970 on Lz Professional
and Maryann. Would like to talk with people that was in my unit. Served with the 196 from 1968 to 1969 in Chu Lia area, Mt baldy. I served with Charlie Company 196th and was severly wounded on Fire
Base Mary Ann March 1971 during the night of Hell. Not many of us left,
but to any that are conatct me. God Bless and Happy New Year HHC 3/21 196th.1969-1970,ChuLai,lz center,baldy,nickname o.d.The
C. O. on center sent me to Danang to steal a large generator from the
navy dock,I stole it and sent it to chulai where I painted it and stenciled
fake numbers.I sent it to LZ center where I was made generator operator.I
have pictures and lots of documents from army. Marlin "Airborne" Slabchuk was a team leader for Echo Recon. I was
his platoon leader for about six months. I remember his last conversation
with me when it was DEROS time for him. I was happy to see him make it
out. His courage sometimes was a little more than necessary to get the
job done. E-mail me off line about what you would like to know about a
really fine soldier. My brother was an airborne ranger who served with Recon/Sniper Teams
in the 2/1 in 1970. His name is Sgt. Marlin Slabchuck. Anyone who remembers
him or has any information about the unit please E-mail me. Thanks In honored remembrance for the men of Company C 2/1, (Twister Charlie),who
on 5&6 January 1968,in the Hiep Duc Valley, made the ultimate sacrifice,
(the majority of the casualties resulting from an ambush and night long
battle). They were: 1LT Steven Cole Drake, 2LT Gerald Wayne Norton, E7
Alvin Samuel Johnson, E6 William Edward Bernard, E4 Albert Morgan Carwithen,
E4 Jerry William Gilliand, E5 Harold Smith, E3 Norman Edward Colosanti,
E3 Guillerno De Leon, Jr., E3 Edward Joseph Drew, E3 Florian Henry Kuss.
E3 Lafon Winston Ladson, E3 Jordan Eugene Ramey, E3 Gary Wesley Runk,
E3 Leland Stewart, 1LT Bromley Howard German (3/82 ARTY), E4 James Paul
Turner (3/82 ARTY), E3 Eric Richard Fassit, HHC Medic, E3 George Greart
Gonsalves, HHC Bde PIO. Please take a moment to remember these valiant
young men, as well as the ones who survived that awful night. They did
not come home untouched; many carry physical as well as emotional scars
with them, even now, all these years later – to them THANK YOU. To the
fallen, the void created by your loss has never been filled. To all of
you – YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN - GOD BLESS YOU ALL! Hope all have a very happy and healthy NEW YEAR JOHN P FLYNN A close friend, Jim Bishop, was a member of Task Force Gimlet in
1972. He is severly disabled (service connected) and would enjoy hearing
from members of his old unit. Please take a moment and contact this house-bound
vet. Thanks. He can be reached at vnv72@excite.com Hello , looking for a Jim Timmerman, I was with him with B1/20th
till he was transferred to the 196th or 198th don't remember which one
if your around or if anyone remembers him would like to get in touch Looking for information on CPT Bill Mercado. I was the Arty LNO and
bunker mate with him. He was the Bn S-2 of 4-31 in late 69. As I recall
he took over as Co of B company in 70. I heard he was wounded pretty badly
but I cannot find anything for sure. Would appreciate anything anyone
could tell me To Marv Lovless Co. B 3/21, 65-67. Your e-mail box is full, will
not let anymore message be sent to yoy, READ YOUR MAIL< Man. Denny. Happy
New Year. I WAS WITH ACO 3/21 FROM 9/70 TO 1/71.I WAS AN RTO FOR LT SMITH &
SGT NEAL. WE WORKED OFF OF LZ CENTER. HAPPY HOLIDAYS BROTHERS. Looking for anyone that was in B-Btry 3/82 F.A. Feb 68 thru Feb 69.Was
on Gun 4 ,FDC then Gun 3 Base Piece.Looking for Mike Rosa(N.Y),Bear(Chicigo),Lopez,Whitie,Tanner(kick
out of Inf to Arty),hipper red headed medic,or other Nam buddys that i
can't remember their names. Best wishes to all my brother Chargers and their families for a very
Happy New Year!! Hope to see you all at the next brigade reunion...wherever
it may be. Remember in your thoughts and prayers all those young men and
women who are now serving to keep us old soldiers safe here at home..... I was a medic with B co. 321 July 70 to July 71. I was there when
Larry Flurry from Alabama killed the big lizard by the river. Also helped
treat Bill Stroud when he let his claymoore mine go off as he stood over
it. Does anyone remember these incidents? Also there when we were ambushed
on the other side of LZYoung with about 20 casualties. Other medics were
Dave Crawford, Mark Hunter. I am looking for Larry Womble from Miss. I
think. And Larry Talbert (?). Or anyone else that might remember me. I
do remember the big guy Lurch who captured the young NVA soldier who was
asleep with his ak47, brand new, with only 4 or 5 rounds in the clip.
After this VC and VC female hit claymoore mine near the same logger site.
She was killed and buried and the VC walking point was medivaced out.
We also had a dog with us on that mission. If anyone would like to contact
me. My phone number is 256-232ntact me. My phone number is 256-232-7329.
I live in my hometown of Athens, Alabama. Address 700 N. Hine St. Athens,
AL, 35611 Happy New Year screw TET. It's been relieving, to write of those
things so long ago, when I begin, it's like yesterday.Those memories as
vivid as ever, finally have become speakable!!! My load is lightend, my
keyboard is dry. Pro Patria, Ed. Return to latest 2004 Guestbook Entries To read the complete archive of 2002 guestbook entries, CLICK
HERE.
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