VOL 16, Number 3 November-December 2007 DOCUMENTARY Stuart Namm premiered his documentary "Men of Truth and Courage in a 'Forgotten War;' the 17th Infantry Regiment in " at this year’s reunion, and the DVDs are now for sale. The documentary is over two years in the making, and thoroughly details the 17th’s experiences in Korea. Details about ordering can be found on page 28 of this publication. The Association personally thanks Stuart and Nancy for their dedica- tion in preserving the Regiment’s history.

Life Members, John Hooper (HQ’s Company: 1950-51) and SFC Jeff Dintleman (B 4-17: 1987-1990) during the 2007 Banquet. No matter what the era served, we are all connected by the common bond of having served with the 17th Infantry Regiment.

2007 REUNION A SUCCESS MORE Regimental This year’s reunion, held in Mystic Goodies . . . page 11 Connecticut, was a huge success 2008 REUNION and we couldn’t have asked for a better location or better weather. We Well it’s official – the 2008 17th had one hundred and eighty five Infantry Regiment Association attendees this year and most of the Reunion will be held in Tacoma, feedback was very positive. (All of Washington, which is only fifteen this couldn’t have been done without miles from the 1st Battalion, 17th Doug Bell, who made sure that every Infantry at Ft Lewis, WA. We’re aspect of the reunion was smooth.) already planning some amazing Doug’s wife, Ulrike, also deserves a things for this reunion and possibly big thanks for all of her efforts and some surprises. After much consid- support. Thanks to you both! eration of several factors, we’ve decided to hold the reunion from 27 SEE THE PICTURES STARTING August to 30 August 2008. With ON PAGE 22 this being Labor Day weekend, we expect some members to have issues with the scheduling, but we AN OLD TRADITION RENEWED 1st BATTALION BUFFALO EARN THE COVETED EIB feel that for the most part, it will Congratulations to one hundred and eleven improve attendance and be benefi- soldiers of the 1st Battalion, who earned the cial for the success of the reunion. coveted “Expert Infantryman’s Badge” in November of 2007. The EIB was created in BUFFALO BUGLE REDUCTION October 1943 and first awarded to Soldiers at Fort Bragg in March 1944. Only Soldiers The Association has reluctantly decided to reduce the number of Buffalo Bugles from three a year to holding infantry or special forces specialties are At this year’s reunion, Association President Donald two. This decision is based on the lack of revenue eligible to earn the award, a distinctive silver Shook presented five hundred Buffalo nickels to from new memberships and membership renewals. LTC Jon Neumann and CSM Peter Smith for them to infantry musket on a rectangular blue The Bugles will now be published in November- distribute within the 1st Battalion. This tradition background with a silver border. The badge sets December and in May-June of every year. We will, began in 1951, when the Regiment adopted the apart the Soldier as an infantryman who knows however, be adding an additional ten pages to every Buffalo Mascot and name. The tradition has been his job well. issue, changing from 32 to 42 pages. If your passed down for many eras and the Association is membership code states on the back cover “Last proud to continue the tradition for the men of the 1st Issue Unless You Renew” then this will be your Battalion. LAST ISSUE. Please renew your membership now. Vol 16 ~ No. 3 Nov - Dec 2007

FOUNDER On The Cover 1 LTG William W. Quinn, USARET (VA) Officers & Table of Contents 2 HONORARY COLONEL OF THE REGIMENT Colonel Thomas Hickman, USA RET The President’s Pen 3 HONORARY SERGEANT MAJOR OF THE REGIMENT VP & Historian’s Desk 4 Lawrence S. Haynes Secretary’s Desk 5 5314 Pine Shadow Lane, North Port, FL 34287 Scholarship Chairman 6 Phone: (941) 423-8643 E-Mail: [email protected] DMOR Chairman’s Desk 7 PRESIDENT AND MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN Donald E Shook Jr From the Commander 8 1010 Manor Road, New Kensington, PA 15068 From the CSM & Vet Services Officer 9 Phone: (724) 367-1096 E-Mail: [email protected] Chaplain’s Corner 10 VICE PRESIDENT Robert J. Connelly 17th Infantry Merchandise 11 19701 Sterling Drive, Miami, Florida 33157 DMOR Roster 12 Phone: (786) 457-6099 E-Mail: [email protected] Co. D LRRP Article 13 TREASURER AND SCHOLORSHIP CHAIRMAN Co. D Rifle Security Article 14 Steve Goodwin 3916 Forest Avenue, Western Springs, IL 60558 2008 Reunion Info 15 Phone: (708) 784-9104 E-Mail: [email protected] I Saw Buffalo Bill Article 16 SECRETARY I Saw Buffalo Bill Article cont. 17 Douglas Bell Private Murphy 18 130 Ponus Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06850 Phone: (203) 847-0844 E-Mail: [email protected] A Place Of Sanction (OIF Article) 19 CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD The 20 Richard Whitson A Place Of Sanction (OIF Article) cont. 21 6821 Stone Mill Dr, Knoxville, TN 37919 Phone: (865) 588-8396 E-Mail: [email protected] 2007 Reunion Photos 22 BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2007 Reunion Photos 23 George Harvey (MI) Bobby Wilson (MS) 2007 Reunion Photos 24 (313) 477-0234 (662) 842-2525 Paver Information & 2007 Reunion Photos 25 E-mail: [email protected] E-Mail: [email protected] John Moore (PA) Clarence Rineck (WN) NIA Application 26 (717) 624-8190 (715) 723-6617 Red White Black & Blue DVD 27 E-Mail: [email protected] E-Mail: [email protected] Men Of Truth And Courage DVD 28 Richard Rosa (MI) Joseph Gonsalves (MD) (989) 792-4161 (301) 317-6368 Chuck Shuck and Gabe 29 E-Mail: [email protected] E-Mail: [email protected] Old Monterey Herald Articles 30 CHAPLAIN POW / MIA 31 John Strube 1-17th OIF Pictures 32 65 St. John Circle, Lititz, PA 17543 Phone: (717) 627-2257 E-Mail: [email protected] 1-17th OIF Pictures 33 DMOR CHAIRMAN AND BOARD MEMBER 2007 Reunion Photos 34 Timothy Green 2007 Reunion Photos 35 Currently working in Afghanistan Member Photos 36 E-Mail: [email protected] 37 HISTORIAN Member Photos Bruce Frazer Invalid Email List 38 2929 Westminster, Dallas, Texas 75205 Letters to the Association & Fallen Comrades 39 Phone: (214) 369-9689 E-Mail: [email protected] New Members 40 VETERANS SERVICE OFFICER 41 Robert Petzold Infantry Creed 5200SW 25th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32608 More Reunion Pics 42 Phone: (352) 548-4906 E-Mail: [email protected] Membership Application 43 QUARTERMASTER Back Cover 44 David de la Sierra 134 Red Fox Run, Macon, GA 31210 Phone: (305) 610-8620 E-Mail: [email protected] The Buffalo Bugle is edited and produced for the Association by Association BUGLE EDITORS Members Donald Shook and Kevin Gilfether. Article proofreading provided by Editor: Donald Shook Carla Shook. Stories, photographs, cartoons, and articles of interest to members Layout and Design: Kevin Gilfether of the 17th Infantry Regiment Association are welcomed and greatly appreciated. Proof Reader: Carla Shook Please identify all personnel and locations when possible on back of photographs, along with a return address so that we can return your photographs to you. Items can also be electronically sent via e-mail to: [email protected] distinction in times of war and times some great new merchandise available of peace for almost 200 years have to members. You can find these items bestowed great honor on themselves on page 11 and they include t-shirts, and the Regiment. pen knives, two versions of the Buffalo Nickel, Association challenge coins, I apologize for the tardiness of and other items. Please send orders to this Buffalo Bugle issue, but due to our Association Quartermaster, David negotiations with area hotels and the De La Sierra, and allow up to three fact that I wanted to list all the details weeks for shipping. Remember, many in this issue, I kept pushing the Bugle of us, including David, have full-time back. A couple last minute issues with jobs, so please allow this extra time to the hotel’s procedures and regulations process your orders. set us back a few weeks, then the 1st Battalion was scheduled with a Brigade I’d like to congratulate the following FTX during one of proposed dates. people on being named Distinguished I’m happy to report that we’ve now members of the Regiment this year. signed a contract with the La Quinta Joe Gonsalves, Bruce Frazer, Steve Inn (details on page 15.) Much thanks Goodwin, and the late Raymond Greetings fellow Association members! to Joe Gonsalves and Andy Ferriera, Harvey who was awarded the Medal of First I’d like to say that I’m honored who are spearheading the reunion Honor during the Korean War (see page to have again been voted in as your committee and make my job much 20) were all bestowed with the DMOR President at this year’s reunion. I’m easier. They have done a great job so honor. Patricia Wilson, daughter of humbled to not only be associated with far and I know will continue to lead in Clarence and Meiko Rinek, was named all veterans of the 17th Infantry, but to the reunion planning. As stated on the an honorary member of the Regiment. have this opportunity to again serve you front cover, we need to announce that These honors are well deserved by all and the Association. Secondly, I’d like the Association has decided to reduce of you, and I applaud you for your to publicly thank Doug and Ulrike Bell the number of issues from three a year devotion to the Regiment. I would for all their hard work on this year’s to two. This decision was based on a also l ike to acknowledge the new reunion in Mystic, Connecticut. A lot few factors. Our new membership Officers and Board Members. Robert of people don’t realize all the work that numbers have dramatically fallen this Connolley, the new Vice President of needs to be done in preparation for a past year, and without new members, the Association, along with Joseph reunion. It’s a tedious task and Doug the cost of publishing the Bugle is Gonsalves and Timothy Green who not only pulled it off, but made it one causing an economic burden on the have taken positions on the Board of of the most successful and memorable Association. To send three issues a Directors. I look forward to working reunions to date. We had over 180 year costs close to $8,000 and without with you gentlemen in the upcoming attendees at the reunion this year, which the continued support from renewals year. included veterans of World War II, the and new memberships, it has already Korean War, Cold War, Lightfighters, taken a toll on our finances. My congratulations to Andy Ferriera and men from the 1st battalion, 17th and Robert Petzold for both winning a Infantry Regiment stationed at Ft. For those of you that send in money free hotel room at the Mystic Reunion. Lewis, Washington. I would like to for the reunion and then could not attend, Both of these members had their rooms personally thank LTC Jon Neumann as well as those of you that paid $25 for for the entire stay at Mystic paid for in and CSM Peter Smith for making the the ladies’ shopping trip that took place full, compliments of the Association trip to Connecticut and bringing an during the Association Board Meetings and the Radisson New London. We active duty Color Guard. It was an on Saturday (we were able to negotiate will continue to do this at our annual honor to have all of you there, and I with the hotel to provide the shuttle reunions. All Officers and Board know a lot of the attendees appreciated for that event at no cost to you), please Members will have an opportunity for being able to meet you and the men. contact our treasurer, Steve Goodwin, a free room as well as someone from I’m sure that next year’s reunion will for a refund. That is, unless you wish to the list of attendees. Note: you need to be even more memorable because of donate these funds as a tax deductible be a member of the Association to be the close proximity to the men of the donation to the Association. We can eligible. 1st Battalion. How truly fortunate also apply it to the 2008 reunion. Steve’s we all are to be a part of such a great contact information can be found on brotherhood. Men serving with great page 2 of this publication. We have ~ continued on page 14 regiment was as 3rd platoon leader with “B” Company under 1LT Mark White. After a few months, because of personnel shortages, I was moved to “A” Company as 2nd Platoon leader under 1LT John Turner. After 4 months as a rifle platoon leader, a change of command brought us a new Battalion Commander, LTC Philip D. Grimm. Under Colonel Grimm’s complete reorganization plan, I ended up as the BN S-4 Officer, a position that I held until I was promoted to Captain and left Korea to command “A” Company 2/41st Infantry in the 2nd AD.. I remained as commander until I separated from active duty in Greetings from the herd! June 1971. The Historian’s Comments I am very happy to report that our I am truly honored to serve all of I joined the New York Army association has been provided with you as the Vice President of the 17th National Guard, 42nd Infantry Division, copies of two excellent narratives of Infantry Regiment Association. 1/258 Field Artillery (“Washington the 17th Regiment during WWII. I joined the on the Greys”) as Battery Commander of “A” The first is by Mr. Richard W. 17th of August, 1966, after graduating Battery. Jaccarino, whom I had the pleasure of from the University of North Carolina. meeting at our reunion in New London I completed Basic Training and AIT at Of all my assignments in the U.S. this past fall. Mr. Jaccarino’s narrative Fort Dix, New Jersey, and after a short Army, none can compare to the sixteen is called “Tuckahoe to Tacoma, ‘One stint with a Basic Training Company, months that I spent with the Buffaloes. Soldiers Journey.’” Mr. Jaccarino’s I went to Infantry Officer Candidate When I joined them, the unit was in descriptions of induction, training, and School at Ft. Benning Georgia, class terrible shape, we were substandard in incidents of the soldiering life are very 36/67, Sixty Third Company. After personnel, Training, Maintenance and descriptive and are a pleasure to read. graduation from OCS, I was assigned just about every other way that a unit The Philippine and Okinawa operations to Military District of Washington, could be evaluated. After the Change of are covered in detail from the view of Davidson U.S.Army Airfield at Command, Col, Grimm, who had served a Platoon in F Company, 17th Infantry Fort Belvoir, VA. I served there as with the unit as a LT in F Company Regiment. This whole narrative is Executive Officer of Headquarters during the Korean War, went to work an outstanding resource for future Company, Member of the Promotion and starting with the basics of military generations of American soldiers who Board for the 3rd Infantry Regiment procedure, turned the unit around, will follow us in the infantry branch. (Old Guard) at Ft. Meyer Va. and and, within seven months, turned it Many thanks to you, Mr. Jaccarino, for Special Projects Officer for Military into well-functioning, well-trained, sharing your story with your comrades District Of Washington. technically and tactically proficient in arms. unit. It took many 18 hour days and The second “anecdotal history” is by In June of 1968, I was assigned to extreme sacrifice and dedication on the Capt. Warren J. Hughes and covers The Eighth Army Replacement Depot at part of every enlisted man, NCO, and 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Eascom City, Bupyoug, Korea. After Officer; but in the end, the pride in the Division from April 1943 through processing, I was further assigned to the unit and esprit de corps that had been August, 1945. This narrative was put 7th ID at Camp Casey, Korea. After a instilled in every buffalo made us all in print by Mr. George E. Adams of few days of processing at Casey, I was believe that we were serving in the best Texas, and contains a forward by LTC sent to HQ, 1st Brigade, Camp Kaiser unit in the United States Army. Ret. John G. Bliss of New Hampshire. Korea. The next Morning I joined the Capt. Hughes’ story covers the Attu, 1st BN, 17th Infantry and immediately Kiska, Kwajelein, Leyte, and Okinawa joined the unit in the field at Phase Campaigns. On Attu and Kiska, Capt. Line PAPA. Hughes was the Anti-Tank Company Commander. At Kwajelein, he was in My first assignment with the ~ continued on page 10 Friday morning, it was off to the A personal highlight for me was United States Coast Guard Academy seeing our original Platoon Leader of for what has become a new tradition at the 4th Battalion, 17th Infantry Scout the reunions -- the memorial service. Platoon, Colonel “Rand” Binford. This year’s memorial was held at the Colonel, it had been over twenty years Coast Guard Chapel. Chaplain Strube since I last saw you, and you’re still once again gave a wonderful service hanging in there serving this country. and it was very moving. Lunch came God bless you. after the memorial service and the staff of the Coast Guard Officer Club I have to take a minute to thank my put out a wonderful meal. The U.S. wife, Ulrike, for all her support with the Submarine and Nautilus museum was reunion. I spent the last year working our next stop after lunch and before we on the reunion and there was more than boarded the buses back to the hotel, we once that things weren’t going right. I had a group photo taken in front of the went a little crazy every now and then Nautilus. Dinner and a few minutes to and she hung in there. I don’t know put your feet up came once we returned how she didn’t hit me over the head Thank you, thank you, and thank to the hotel, and then it was time for with a frying pan. you to each and every one of you that one of the highlights of the reunion, the attended the 17th Infantry Regiment premiere of Stu Namm’s documentary Next year’s reunion will be held Association annual reunion at Mystic on the 17th Infantry Regiment during at Fort Lewis Washington. If you’ve Connecticut. The success of the the Korean War. There were not never been to a reunion, next year’s is reunion was due to all of those that too many dry eyes at the end of the the one to attend. The 1st Battalion 17th supported it, and we had a great turn showing, and for those of you that Infantry will be heading overseas and out, even with the more than twenty missed it and would like a copy you we need to have as many people as we people that had to cancel at the last will find ordering information in this can be there to show them our support. minute because of personal reasons. issue of the Bugle. Friday night ended These soldiers are, and will continue with another auction and war stories in the great heritage of the 17th Infantry. I’ve started this column maybe the hospitality room. Saturday morning We can never thank them enough for ten times and every time I finish it, I was time for the Board Meeting and what they do, but how about us as an notice that I’ve forgotten to mention elections for the men, and many of the Association trying to show them in someone’s name in thanks. So I’m women went on a shopping trip with person before they deploy? going to give a “blanket” thank you transportation provided by the hotel. to all those that helped out at the Saturday night was our Banquet and I would like to ask each and every reunion! The weather, hotel, and staff one of the highlights was LTC Jon member to do me a favor: make it couldn’t have been better. Thursday Newman and CSM Peter Smith from the a personal goal to recruit one new morning, we started with a trip to the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment member into this great Association this Mystic Sea Port, and everyone seemed stationed at Fort Lewis. They were our year. I know I will. God bless each to have a good time. Lunch was on duel guest speakers and did a fabulous and every one of you. your own and many chose to eat at job. They also brought a five-man one of the restaurants in the Mystic Color Guard from the Recon Platoon Village. The Mystic Aquarium was (Scouts Out), and did a tremendous job the next stop for many after lunch. We in presenting the Regimental Colors had one of our Association members during the banquet. The banquet fall while at the Aquarium, and he festivities ended with an auction that ended up in the hospital. We were all was hosted by Steve Goodwin and Joe worried about him, and then we got Tatem. Steve and Joe had us all in tears a call from the hospital and he said with laughter at the auction and those he would be returning to the reunion two should take their act on the road. once they fixed him up and to make I know President Shook was worried sure we would have the hospitality about having to MC the reunion, and I room open for when he got back. must say he did an outstanding job, and What a Trooper! Thursday night at the I believe all those in attendance would hospitality room we had six-foot sub agree. sandwiches brought in and an auction. I’d also like to take this opportunity 2. A maximum of four scholarships will to personally acknowledge those of you be awarded in each calendar year. who made donations to the scholarship fund. It is exclusively through the 3. This scholarship may only be generosity of the membership that awarded once per individual. we are able to continue making these scholarships available. Please remember 4. In the event of more than four that, as a registered 501c3 non-profit applicants in any one calendar year we organization, your contributions are will rank the applications on academic completely tax deductible. I have merit. All final decisions will be made already sent tax donation letters to by the scholarship review committee. most of you, but if you have made a donation and have not yet received the Thanks again to those of you who tax donation letter, or if you require a have made a contribution this year. replacement letter, please notify me We had another successful year and personally and I’ll be happy to provide certainly the five individuals above who one. In lieu of the calendar year’s received the scholarships have affirmed Dear Association Members, end, and the need by some to consider that through their personal “thank you” charitable giving, please remember our notes. It is important to acknowledge I’d like to take the opportunity own charitable scholarship program. that they were always addressed to to formerly introduce myself as the Keep in mind – every dollar donated the members of the association, but new Scholarship Chairman of the makes its way to provide financial the real kudos goes to those who General Quinn Scholarship Fund. As support to the eligible descendants of have generously given of their time you very well know, that job comes our beloved association. and money. Therefore, let me also with some big shoes to fill. Larry thank those of you who serve on the Haynes has successfully stirred this This year’s awardees were as follows: scholarship committee: Dick Whitson, program since its origination over Bruce Frazer, Rich Rosa, Doug Bell, seven years ago. I would be remiss if Aaron Hunkins, and lastly, Larry Haynes, for his many I didn’t acknowledge Larry’s faithful Grandson of Al Bauman years of dedicated service…we’ll do and diligent service as Scholarship Gina Gonsalves, our best to maintain the high standards Chairman. During his tenure, he Granddaughter of Remo Trinica you’ve established, Larry! has directed the $500.00 annual award, recognizing over twenty-two Tajana Olson, descendants of association members Granddaughter of Neil Olson in their pursuit of higher education, Ashley Stoddard, cumulatively awarding over $11,000 Granddaughter of Dwayne Stoddard dollars in monetary scholarships over (deceased) its history to date. I also feel honored Katie Stoddard, to have served with Larry this past year Granddaughter of Dwayne Stoddard as the co-chairman of the scholarship (deceased) fund. Larry’s leadership and gentle mentoring provided the insight to fill In closing, please contact me to his prior role with greater ease. Please obtain an application for the 2008 help me acknowledge Larry for his scholarship awards, which will be tireless and dedicated service to you, decided on Aug. 31, 2008, prior to the association, and in this case to your the reunion in the Ft. Lewis area. The sons, daughters, and respective eligible criteria for eligibility and terms of the descendants. Larry, being the humble scholarships are as follows: guy he is, simply stated, “It was easy, the money was always raised from the 1. Children, grandchildren and all other generosity of the members. To me, eligible lineal descendants of members I was just paying out a dividend of in good standing for a minimum of two friendship!” (2) years are eligible. honorary or distinguished position HAPPY BELATED 2. Supporting documents may BIRTHDAY TO include, but are not limited to: EINAR INGMAN a. Instrumental in the foundation of the modern day Association Association Life Member and b. Unit, local, state, or national recognition for perpetuating the Medal Of Honor recipient, customs, history, and traditions of Einar Ingman celebrated his the 17th Infantry Regiment, thereby 78th Birthday in October of enhancing unit morale and esprit. 2007. A few of our Association c. Volunteering to preserve and/or maintain Regimental historical Members went up to see Einar markers and monuments in local, and spend some time with our state, or national parks. Distinguised Member. Greetings, fellow Buffalos d. Long-time record of participating in National holiday events such as It’s Open Season on nominations Memorial Day, Veterans Day, POW/ for The 2008 Distinguished and MIA remembrances, etc., specifically Honorary Member of the Regiment. promoting the 17th Infantry Regiment. It will close 22 March 2008, so please e. Recruit a large number of get your nominations in to me. I prefer Regimental veterans for the emailed packets, but regular mail is Association. fine. My addresses are in the inside f. Long-time service to the cover of the Bugle. Please exercise Association’s elected leadership or the utmost honor and integrity when Association Members Gil Isham supporting positions, i.e. Association and Jack Csuy with Einar Ingman. nominating a deserving person to chaplain, historian, committee preserve the sanctity of the program. membership, etc

The nomination packet must Nominees approved by the Chief include the biography and any or Infantry who attend the 2008 supporting documents to substantiate reunion will receive their certificates the nominee’s qualifications for then, and nonattendees will receive Association approval, active battalion their certificates in the mail after the approval, and eventual approval by reunion. the Chief of Infantry, Fort Benning, Georgia. Gil and Ardi Isham, Clarence and 1. Biography must include: Meiko Rineck, Jack and Marlene a. Full name Csuy, and Mardell and Einar b. If retired or active duty, retired or Ingman. current rank c. Period of service with the 17th Infantry Regiment d. A detailed synopsis of military service, focusing on regimental service, achievements, awards, and decorations e. The overwhelming and empirical reason(s) the nominee merits an ran to the Puget Sound and back. To the meantime bring you into the Pacific help us mark such a storied day in your Northwest, please don’t hesitate to be legacy, the I Corps Commander, Chief in touch. We’re always happy to show of Staff, and Command Sergeant Major folks around the battalion. My contact all ran with us. The Chief of Staff is information is all on the Association COL Okita, a former commander of website, and I’m never too busy to visit this battalion. Having these senior with fellow Buffaloes. leaders join us really helped make our Yalu River Day run a memorable event. Thank you again for your service I intend to work regimental history to our country and this great unit, and into many of the things we do and to your continued support to the men and commemorate many other significant women of your Army today. dates in the history of the 17th. m the command fro er I thoroughly enjoyed attending the 2007 reunion in Connecticut. It was really an honor to speak at the banquet. A special December greeting to Thanks for the great hospitality and all the veterans of the 17th Regiment. for how well the Soldiers of the color I am so blessed to get to command guard were treated. Getting to meet so America’s most precious resource: many veterans of the regiment and to Her sons. I also consider myself get reacquainted with some who came truly fortunate to be commanding a to Ft. Lewis for our activation was the battalion from such a storied lineage. highlight of my weekend. The reputation of the 17th Infantry that was built through the blood and We are very excited that the sweat of all of you who preceded us is Association chose to hold the 2008 not something we, the current cast of reunion in the Tacoma area. Being that Buffaloes, take lightly. We strive daily close to Fort Lewis will really give you to not stink up your good name. a chance to see how today’s Buffaloes live and train. CSM Smith and I are As I write this column, the working with the reunion committee battalion is away from our Fort Lewis to host everyone for at least a day at home braving the snow and cold Ft. Lewis. We’re looking at several of the high Washington desert near different events like the rifle range Yakima. Each company is taking (we won’t expect a high score, but do squads through their paces in force- hope some of you will show us how on-force and live fire exercises. The it’s done), rides in our Stryker vehicles, training proficiency at the rifle squad some good Army chow, and a tour of level that we’re developing this month the headquarters. We are currently will serve as the foundation for our working hard in the headquarters to next training gates as we put platoons properly display the heraldry items through similar tests in January. As that were passed along from Alaska we train in freezing temperatures and and some of the items that association some blowing snow, we often refer to members have sent to me since our the conditions that the regiment battled activation last May. We are establishing enroute to and from the Yalu River and a regimental room for the historical the Chosin Reservoir. Our chills pale items and photos, and a separate Medal in comparison! of Honor room dedicated to the 17 men of the Regiment who earned our On the 21st of November, we nation’s highest award. commemorated the 57th anniversary of the attack to the Yalu. The entire I look forward to seeing many of battalion, plus our attached Engineers, you again at the reunion, but if travels in M240 (machine gun) functions check SERVICE OFFICERS REPORT and clearing, maintaining commo equipment, installing mines, calling President Bush Nominates Dr. James for fire, land navigation, and lots more. Peake as Secretary of Veterans The entire practice and testing period Affairs lasted three weeks. We started out with 269 motivated candidates and President Bush nominated retired ended up with 111 of them earning Lt. Gen. Jim Peake as Secretary of their EIB. The Army standard for this Veterans Affairs on Oct. 30. Peake, a West Point graduate and decorated event is 30%. We achieved 41% which Vietnam veteran, retired in 2004 after is a very impressive number. Our next serving 40 years in the U.S. Army. big challenges are Squad and Platoon An accomplished physician, he was evaluations conducted at our local Surgeon General of the Army for four training area here at Yakima. years. His nomination now goes to the U.S. Senate for confirmation. We are also taking full advantage of all the School slots that are given to us. We VA Medical Eligibility Greetings from Fort Lewis to all currently have six qualified Snipers and past and present Buffaloes. I am very plan to have 16 by the time you guys After returning from our recent fortunate and excited to be part of arrive here. Slowly but surely we are Reunion in Mystic, Connecticut, I this great organization. Seeing all the also sending Soldiers to Fort Benning, talked to many members who were not Buffaloes who served before us at the Georgia for Ranger school. taking advantage of their entitlement yearly reunion was very impressive. To to medical care through the Veterans Administration. Many of these tell you the truth we could use a couple Digital training in preparation to individuals told me they did not see of you guys here right now. Currently receive our Stryker vehicles has been why they should report their spouse’s the BN is at 85 percent strength and our focus for the past few months. income. If you have no ratable we do not think that we will reach the The whole Stryker issue and train up disability from the VA, you must report 100 percent mark until we receive our should be complete by May. This will all household income. If you are in orders to deploy. give you the opportunity to see some of receipt of a , however, you the Army’s most advanced technology are placed in Category III, and you need The Commander and I were very during your stay up here. not report your income. Section VI on pleased with your decision to host the VA Form 10-10EZ should be checked. next reunion up here in the Seattle Once again, it is my privilege to It states: area. I will guarantee you that we will have this awesome opportunity to call have a blast. The 1-17 Infantry (active) myself the CSM for this outstanding No, I do not wish to provide chain of command will organize one unit. financial information in Sections VII day of activities. You will be given the through X. I understand that VA is not opportunity to talk to the Soldiers and enrolling new applicants who do not give them some insight into challenges provide this information and who do not have a special eligibility factor (e.g., you guys had to deal with in your days. recently discharged combat veteran, We will walk you through the battalion compensable service connection, area and you can see how Soldiers live receipt of VA pension or Medicaid today. Live fire ranges will be run so benefits.) If I am enrolled, I agree to you have the opportunity to fire some pay applicable VA co-payments. Sign of our weapons. Bringing (or wearing) it and provide your entitlement to a your old uniforms to the range that day Purple Heart. would make this event unforgettable. If you have any questions, please Now to some updates from up contact: here: the BN has just finished their annual EIB (Expert Infantryman Robert Petzold Badge) training and testing. The 5200 SW 25th Blvd. training and testing consists of 34 Gainesville, FL 32608 tasks including rifle marksmanship, (352) 548 4906 email: [email protected] ~ continued from page 4 But what is the nature of the hope? If it is the idea of improvement and charge of the Amtracks that delivered progress, then history shows us that the troops to the landing beaches. we will be sorely disappointed. If it On Leyte, he was the rifle company is the idea that our lives will be better commander of E Company, 17th in 2008, or one’s illness will be cured, Infantry. On Okinawa, he started with there are always those possibilities, but E Company, but had to take over the then we might win the lottery, too, but S-3 position when the original S-3 was one probably should not count on it. wounded. Hand drawn maps assist the reader For those of us who believe in in following general movements of God, the nature of that hope is built the 17th Regiment, and sometimes on the promises of our God. It does the company-sized unit movements. not depend on a healthy body or even Excellent descriptions of the terrain a healthy mind. It does not depend on and plant life, which at times both aided us getting everything all figured out and hindered the troops during battle, or achieving any particular measure help in understanding the progress of As I thought about the annual ritual of success. The goal is something to the fighting. of closing out an old year and bringing look forward to, and a done deal. We As with the first narrative, Capt. in the new, I wondered about how all have that already in our relationship Hughes” story adds to the wealth of this got started. Who came up with the with God, and we move through life information about the 17th Infantry idea of keeping track of time in this with the promise that one day we shall and the men who fought the battles of way? I checked the Internet to see if enjoy it without any of the restrictions WWII. any help was available and the screen that accompany earthly life. indicated I was looking at options 1- 15 of nearly ten million possibilities. When we say Happy New Year, we Apparently, I was not the only one who can say with conviction that no matter wonders about such things. what is ahead, God will be there with us and for us. The hope, peace, joy, As I glanced through the sites, it and love we celebrate in this season became apparent that, while no one has of the year move us into our futures. any idea how it all got started, virtually Whether you are in the a position of every culture has a rich variety of turning your energies to work for justice traditions, customs, and rituals related and peace in this world or are, because to the ending and beginning of a year. of your circumstances, hanging on for Customs are at least as old as recorded dear life, our hope for our day will be history, the common theme I found found in the promises of God. relates to putting to rest some of the past troubles, failure, mistakes, and grudges, and moving into a future with HAPPY NEW YEAR! hope and promise.

Whether it’s the idea of letting bygones be bygones, or, to use the Apostle Paul’s language: “forgetting what lies behind, and straining forward to what lies ahead” (Philippians 3:13), there seems to be a general human need to not be consumed by the events of one’s past, and there seems to be a general human need to look forward in hope. Even people who don’t believe in a Divine Being have ways of looking forward in hope. the buffalo store We also accept credit card orders on the Associations website!

Operation Iraqi Freedom Patch Proceeds go to the Stewart Rothman Soldier’s Morale Fund $5.75

17th Infantry Regiment Pen Knife “Truth & Courage” Available in 5 colors: Blue, black, Red, Teal and Green $5.00

“Stryker” Challenge Coin Older version of the 17th Association Challege Coin, featuring the “Stryker” Battalion $8.00

Association Challenge Coin Beautiful diamond cut epoxy filled,. Battle honors include Iraq $8.00

“Truth & Courage” Nickel $5.00

1953 Nickel $5.00 Two Sided silk screened T-shirts: Sizes: Med, Lrg, XL, XXL Black or Grey $19.00

MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: 17TH INFANTRY ASSOCIATION PLEASE REMEMBER TO INCLUDE $1.50 FOR SHIPPING AND HANDLING SEND TO: David De La Sierra 17th Inf Reg Quartermaster 134 Fox Run Macon, Ga 31210 distinguished member of the regiment

Selections for Distinguished Tim Green Members of the Regiment (DMOR) and George Harvey Honorary Distinguished Members of Raymond Harvey the Regiment (HDMOR) are not based Fred Hatter solely on military accomplishments Robert R. Heiter during an individual’s time in service, Jeffrey P. Holt but also on what the individual Einar Ingman has accomplished on behalf of the Gilbert E. Isham Association. The Chairman of the selection committee is Association Ted Mataxis Project Chairman, CSM Tim Green. 1SG Matthew Splechter Nominations for DMOR or HDMOR Stuart Johnson should be sent to him at csmgreen@ David Nethken Louis Kolb gmail.com Lynn Okita Jackie D. Legg The above badge and a certificate Alma Rohr Fred McGee suitable for framing, as well as orders Carol Rosa Joe Midyette signed by the Chief of the U.S. Infantry, Lee Rothman Daryl T. Moore are presented to each awardee. Margaret Smith Timothy Mullins Walter L. Murrell Col. Tom Hickman, HCOR Christy Splechter Robert Northcutt Lawrence Haynes, HSMOR Shirley Stoddard Janet Strube Mike Okita LTC James Smith HDMOR Marie Sullivan Mary Watts 1SG John Moore Alan Bjerke Patricia “Pat” Wilson Tony Perez JoAnn Brigham Laura Wittler Robert Petzold Catherine I. Bryant Arnold Prather Stefania Burke DMOR Rocky Rayos Mary Jo Camp Royal Reynolds Cathy Colley Phillip Albert Jack Reynoldson Leslie Drumhiller Alfred Baumann Clarence Rineck Carolyn Eve Douglas Bell Richard Robbins Fran Feury Clarence Bennet James Rohr Charlotte Gallo Paul H. Bryant Richard Rosa Donald Garner SFC Lawrence Burke Stewart Rothman Sally Harvey Dennis Camp James Sheldon Evelyn Haynes John T. Carrig Don Shook Carol Heiter Ralph C. Colley John L. Strube John Hillman SM George Crisostomo John A. Sullivan Peggy Holt Joe E. DeFosse Mack Vereen Mardelle Ingman Louis E. Eve Don Watts Ardith Isham Andy Ferreira Pat Wilson Richard Kabaker Eugene P. Feury LTC Charles Webster Ellen Legg Bruce Frazer Richard Whitson Mark Marques Pete Gallo Scott Wickland Helma Mataxis COL Edward Gibbons Jacob F. Wittler Roy P. Montgomery Kevin Gilfether Darron Wright Alicyn Moore Steve Goodwin Neil Young Chiara Murrell Eulos Graham 12 COMPANY D, (LRP), 17th INFANTRY : May 1965 to February 1969 17th Infantry Long Range Patrol Unit did not use the “Official” 17th Infantry Crest, but wore an unauthorized crest at the time. Also of note, the 17th LRP Company formed A Company, 75th Ranger Regiment in Feb of 1969

The Company D Long Range Patrol (Airborne), 17th Infantry formally V Corps (ABN) LRRP Co. (provisional) which was activated at 7th Army in Germany on 15 July, 1961 eventually became Company A (Airborne Ranger), 75th Infantry. The V Corps (ABN) LRRP Co. was the first of two (2) LRRP Companies authorized at Army level and was activated at 7th Army in Germany on 15 July, 1961, and was formed at Wildflecken. Major Reese Jones was the first commanding officer and Gilberto M. Martinez was (ABN) 17th Infantry, maintaining the had to be airborne qualified. the First Sergeant. same mission and remaining at Gibbs Kaserne in Frankfurt, Germany. The In 1968, the Army began a massive The Company was initially V Corps being across the Hessian and pullout from Europe code -- named designated the 3779 Recon Patrol Bavarian front north of the Main River Operation REFORGER (Redeployment Co, (Provisional) and came under the faced four of the six most likely Soviet of Forces Germany) and Company D Headquarters, 14th Armored Cavalry penetration corridors into Germany. (LRP), 17th Infantry relocated to Fort at Fulda, Germany (APO 26 US The Company missions encompassed Benning, Georgia with Captain Harry Forces) for administration and court extensive practiced combat patrolling W. Nieubar the Company commander. martial jurisdiction. In January 1963, missions in the Bad Heisfeld - The Ft Benning barracks was on Kelley the Company moved to Edwards Giessen, Fulda-Hanau, Bad Kissingen Hill and Company D, 17th Infantry Kaserne in Frankfurt with Captain -- Wurzburg and Coburg - Bamberg was the only active duty, airborne William Guinn assuming command corridors to include rehearsed deep unit on the post. They still wore the V from Major Edward Porter. On 9 May, penetration missions against Thuringian Corps patch with airborne tab and were 1963, the Company moved to Gibbs targets that were typified by the Soviet used as Aggressors at all three Ranger Kaseme in Frankfurt and became Weimar - Nobra air installation and Training sites. Then on 21 February part of the V Corps Special Troops Army facilities around Ohrdruf and 1969, Company D (LRP) 17th Infantry (Provisional) working directly for the Jena. The Company would be used became Company A (Airborne Ranger) Corps G-2. Under Captain Guinn’s also for special missions of infiltration 75th Infantry activated at Fort Benning, leadership the V Corps LRRPs that included team placement of T-4 Georgia under Captain Thomas P. developed and perfected aspects of Atomic Demolition Munitions and Meyer. Long Range Patrol operations that are locating enemy battlefield targets still in use today. Many of these ideals for Army tactical nuclear delivery were incorporated into the first long systems. The TO&E also formalized range Reconnaissance Company field the trend towards Ranger status with manual (FM31-16). a requirement for 24 Patrol Leaders, three “Killer” Platoon Leaders, the On 15 May, 1965 the Company Ops Officer, Exec Officer, C.O. and was deactivated and re-designated 1st Sergeant to be Ranger qualified. All as Company D, Long Range Patrol 208, Company D, 17th Infantry LRRPs Co. D, (Rifle Security), 17th Infantry Vietnam: June 1971 to Aug 1972 In this era the “Official” crest was worn as was a 17th Infantry Crest “Pocket Patch” on the uniform This Company was “Activated” in Country, a few years after it was De-Activated at Fort Benning to create the Ranger Company.

The reference book Vietnam Order of Battle contains the following entry: Company D, 17th Infantry (Rifle Security) Arrived Vietnam: 30 June 1971 Departed Vietnam: 1 August 1972 Previous Station: Vietnam Authorized Strength: 160

Company D, 17th Infantry was a rifle security company independently raised to guard the Cam Ranh Bay complex under the command of the U.S. Army Support Command, Cam Ranh Bay.

The lineage of Company D, 17th Infantry (from the 1986 edition of the book Infantry Regiments of the United States Army) indicates that it was inactivated 21 February 1969 at Fort Benning, GA. That is consistent with the Previous Station: Vietnam designation in the Vietnam Order of Battle entry. That would mean that Company D, 17th Infantry was constituted in-country (and not moved to Vietnam from the US), most probably from the following sources:

- soldiers, whose original unit was being sent back to the US, but who had not yet served a complete tour of duty in Vietnam, so they were transferred from their original unit to Company D

- “repo depot”, a replacement depot where soldiers coming into country awaited their assignment orders

~ continued from page 3 all who participated. We also ate soon after the banquet started and held the For those of you that weren’t at guest speakers to after dinner along this year’s reunion, the Association with the other banquet functions. All decided to do a couple of new things in all it was a smooth transition from and change the way we had previously one activity to another and it made for conducted the Banquet. First, the a very relaxing and enjoyable evening. beginning of the Banquet began with a couple new ceremonies. One was to I hope to see more of you at the Ft honor all of our POW/MIAs (Page 31) Lewis-Tacoma reunion and as always, and the next ceremony was to honor if you have any questions, concerns, or the men who gave the ultimate sacrifice criticisms about the Association, please for their fellow soldiers and for their feel free to contact me. My very best to Country. We had veterans from each every one of you and may God bless us era that the Regiment fought in, come all in 2008. up to a table in a prominent location and light a candle in remembrance of those soldiers lost in that conflict. They “Follow Me” were: Ed Graham: World War II, John Moore: The Korean War, Guy Daines: The Vietnam War, Jeff Dintleman: Your President, Operation Just Cause and CSM Peter Smith for Operation Iraqi Freedom. It was a moving ceremony and I thank Donald Shook 14

i saw buffalo bill Craig C. Scott, V.F.W. Magazine, Week—January 24-31 cent visit to the replacement company, letter urged, “Like three other men who I had been told, “There’s one regiment went A.W.O.L. to join your Regiment, we don’t have to worry about replace- so did I but before I could see anyone ments for. Men are begging to join the Military Police sent me back to the Seventeenth Infantry Regiment. Pusan. I am now awaiting a Court They’ve all heard about Buffalo Bill.” Martial. Sir, I’ve heard so much about your outfit that I want in. I just had the The command post of the Seven- urge to fight and I am stuck back here. teenth Infantry was not far from my I would be deeply indebted to you if present location. I remembered that you would please take me with you.” the unit was one of the oldest United States regiments (activated in 1812). A Colonel Quinn answers all the half-hour of jeeping along a river and letters personally but cautions these through the mountains, and I reached volunteers to apply for transfer through a tent city – Korean headquarters of a their present commanding officers. legendary regimental commander. In a few minutes, I was standing before To men bogged down in such a staff officer. “What foundation,” I terminology as GI, dough foot, mud- Dust erupted from the wheels of asked, “is there to the story that men churner and fox-hole artist, the words the machine-gun jeep as it braked to are going Absent Without Leave to join buffalo, musketeer and infantryman a stop at the junction of spiraling Ko- your regiment?” strike a concordant note. No rean mountain roads. A helmeted man The major smiled. He picked up a infantryman liked to think of himself leaped out, firmly planted a sign at the sizeable stack of letters from a nearby as a mudslogger. Like the pikemen road’s edge. A black buffalo was em- field desk and thrust them into my in the armies of history they’re proud blazoned on the sign and the legend hands. “There,” he said, “is your of their title and will stand shoulder read, “Danger – Buffalo Crossing.” answer.” to shoulder to uphold it. Words that paint a drab likeness of the line- A man in battle dress came to his One hour and fifty pages later, I had charging infantryman are avoided in feet, remained standing in the jeep. A mulled over such urgent messages as the Seventeenth. hint of grey peeked from beneath his – “Sir, I hope that you can make room steel helmet. Intelligence burned from for me in your regiment as I am willing Pride and self-respect are essential his eyes and his bearing was an etch- to go all the way even if it means my elements in the makeup of a sound ing of pride. As he surveyed the line life and that is giving all I got, Sir, so fighting man. This was reflected in of steel-toting infantrymen approach- please give me a chance.” one of the letters which said, “I have ing the junction, his chin jutted with Word had spread, with the rapidity applied for a transfer to your unit three confidence … of a medieval plague, throughout the times. I am writing you hoping you Korean peninsula and the Japanese will be able to do something for me. I Curiosity pushed me over to the isles. Men with fighting fever were have heard a lot about your outfit and soldier who had planted the sign and “taking off” from all types of units to I know that if I can join you I would I asked, “Who’s the colonel?” The join Buffalo Bill and his “hot outfit.” respect myself and my unit much more man pierced me with a look that had Colonel Bill Quinn was the warlock than I do now.” Another soldier wrote, all the cold steeliness of a thrust bayo- and the Bison his talisman. Together, “It would bring me unbounded joy and net. It was as if that single question they spun a web of glamour that was pride if I could become a soldier in had branded me an idiot. “That’s Buf- paying off in enemy dead and high your regiment.” falo Bill Quinn,” he snorted, “the best troop morale. damn regimental commander you’ll The urgent requests I was reading ever see!” Earnest men were requesting came from men in the artillery, quarter- permission of their commanding officers master, engineers, signal corps, many And I took a good look at Buffalo to be transferred to the Seventeenth service organizations and other infan- Bill, for this was not the first time I’d Infantry Regiment. One man in his try units. A letter from an Army baker heard that name in Korea. During a re- eagerness had skipped channels. His requested, “I hope so earnestly to enter the field of combat as a soldier in your fanned into a conflagration of fighting colonel admitted, “Taking that hill was Seventeenth Regiment and should this power in this old infantry regiment. the toughest assignment of my army request be granted, I will serve you to career – tough because of the hardships the best of my ability and in such a I returned the letters to the major. and sacrifices I had to ask my men to manner as to bring credit to you, your “They mean every word of it,” he as- suffer.” His eyes sparked as he added, regiment, and to the United States sured me. “Those men are serious.” “We proved that the American soldier Army. I fully realize that my qualifi- In every war soldiers have rushed to is not the road bound sissy our enemies cations as an infantryman are few, Sir, join a leader; the Korean campaign is took him to be (the hill is six air miles but I am a native Texan and an expert no exception. The military science of from the nearest road).” rifleman. I have two stripes which I didactics is built around incidents in am willing to give up, if necessary, which leadership has turned the tide Bayonets often flash in the should this request be granted.” of battle. Every fighting man sees his Seventeenth Regiment and their flash own good qualities burst forth from in- instills the spirit of close combat in the Motives for wanting to join the troversion and reflect in a spirited and charging infantrymen. No man in the Buffalos differed but the underlying colorful commander. These fighting Seventeenth will ever forget the lesson urgency of the requests never waiv- men are not easily fooled. They watch that aggressiveness taught on the ered. A letter from a corporal on Oki- their leader carefully. They’ve seen high ground west of Amidong when nawa expressed, “I would give any- “eyewash” before and can measure sin- bayonet-thrusting riflemen broke up an thing to get assigned to your outfit. I cerity. When a man is imbued with the enemy attack and chased terrified Reds would like very much to replace my magnetic current of chieftainry, men in from the strategic high ground. Buffalo brother who is listed as missing in ac- this command cloak themselves in the Bill had made it known throughout the tion. I have six brothers who were all mannerisms he radiates. The pattern command that bayonets were for active in the service and all have seen some is set. Each individual prides himself use – charging Buffalos had used them combat. I want to show my brothers upon achieving the standard. Fears are well. that I can take anything that they did. conquered. Heroes rise. Please, Colonel, help me to reach Ko- I had heard many stories of the rea. I will be more than grateful to you Volunteer replacements continue to powerful punches this proud unit the rest of my life.” “crop up” in the regiment – sometimes delivered in combat action. Now, I where least expected … A sergeant determined to see for myself how they Three artillerymen asked Buffalo of the Seventeenth was counting the reacted under fire. An intelligence Bill for an advance letter of acceptance men in a pack train carrying heavy officer told me that Company “I” would so they could initiate a transfer. Their loads of ammunition to guns firing in lead the attack the following morning. letter said, “We are members of a fine the mountains – three too many. He I jeeped to the company location and artillery battalion but we feel that we counted again. The result was the arrived at dusk to witness preparations could do more as members of your same. After quick investigation, he for the jump-off. Operations were outfit. We would consider it an honor ordered three heavily-laden soldiers to deliberate, thorough. Information was to serve under your command.” step out of the line. The men reluctantly specific and was passed down through admitted that they were members of a the ranks in a well organized manner. I noted that many of the men rear area unit but had “taken off” to Orders were unquestioned. There was requesting transfer to the Buffalos join the Buffalos. no lost motion. It was a thrill to watch were proud of the units in which they a seasoned outfit prepare for combat were currently serving. An engineer The will to fight is the most action. explained, “Sir, this is one of the best significant thing about the Seventeenth engineer outfits there is. But I would Infantry Regiment. Esprit de Corps is a At dawn the company, draped with like to be transferred to your regiment. somewhat “dog-eared” expression that bandoleers and grenades, left the road It doesn’t matter what kind of work takes on new meaning as the observer and moved to the foot of a mountain I do at first – truck driver, rifleman, moves into an area occupied by the mass – their first objective for the day. ammunition bearer, anything so long Buffalos. The impression is dynamic As I looked upward at the hazy moun- as I am helping.” – and it’s catching. tain heights, I wondered how these infantrymen – each man was carrying To me, these letters were an indi- UN War Correspondent William an extra round of ammunition (for sup- cation that the fighting spirit – which Burson, watching the Buffalos storm a porting heavy weapons) and a bed roll has won the American soldier fame hill, wrote: “It was spectacular in the – could even hope to scale those rug- and respect in many countries – was determination with which the assault ged slopes. We started the receiving a spark of new life and being was mounted.” After the action, the ~ continued on page 18 ~ continued from page 17 private murphy climb. Mines were located in the vi- cinity – another test of infantry cour- age. Men were cautioned to step in the footprints of those who were leading the way. Officers and non-commis- sioned officers continually reminded the men to stay at least five yards apart (“Think five yards ahead” is the com- pany motto) so that incoming mortar rounds would take a light casualty roll.) I saw the “Buffalos” of Company “I” storm the heights of a hill that day. I watched riflemen with fixed bayonets drop packs when they were under fire and unhesitatingly assault enemy posi- tions.

And I caught the expressions of wound-scarred young officers during the attack – eagerness was there; ex- citement was there – fear was absent.

Fighting men of the Seventeenth Regiment lived up to their much vaunt- ed reputation that day. Moving among the troops constantly, lending encour- agement, setting the pattern, is the strong figure of the chiseled-chinned regimental commander. The man was using “unit pride” as the key to victory and it had sprung the lock.

Yes, I saw Buffalo Bill. There’s no mistaking the undying sprit of that great pioneer. I recalled that during my trip to the West Coast, prior to embar- kation for the Far East, I had climbed the heights above Denver and observed from the spot where the man in buck- skin had once stood. Now, as I watched a dusty column of infantrymen spiral- ing northward, I knew that the statute on Lookout Mountain had come to life and was camping in the mountains of Korea.

Craig C. Scott V.F.W. Magazine Association President Donald Shook’s Motorcycle’s vanity plate. If you have Week—January 24-31 a vanity plate or something similar showing your Buffalo Pride, send it in and we’ll post it in a future Bugle operation iraqi freedom A Place of Sanction: Where the Buffalo Roam A common man will die, willingly conscious and sub-conscious portions true-aggressor secures the essence giving away his last breath, regretting of our minds. of his abilities, while sharpening and things he will never do; picturing honing his wits in preparation for his things he should have done. For the Young men, some not old enough striking blow. Moreover, if this fear men of the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry to consume alcohol, make up the should ever overwhelm the grunt, his Regiment, these thoughts will never majority of this unit. These sons of modus operandi changes in a blink of govern or cloud our keen minds - not America brutally trained and are ready an eye. In an instant, he will readily in the least bit. Our impeccable spirit, for whatever bloodthirsty events might assume the intestinal fortitude required the spirit of the “Buffalo” will live lay before them. We cover the terrain needed to defeat this irrational way on forever. Death surely will present with our chests filled with pride. We are of thinking. Look around you! We itself – this is a reality. Death will cocky as hell and proud of it. Some of share a common-bond that many will be our place of rest amidst the other these brave warriors are so cocky that never encounter. Regardless, these courageous “Buffalos.” they want to be in the crosshairs—just thoughts quickly wither away when beckoning the call! An awe-inspiring some charismatic or humorous remark As we approach this new place, bunch of men, and I am damn proud to presents itself to anyone monitoring recognizing us will be an easy task. be a part of them. the radio. All of us were too beat-down As we enter this new domain, we will from the plethora of adornment that we spearhead its essence with “Truth and Domination is an understatement wore. Once the grunt debated all these Courage!” when you consider the area we control. things - you could care-less and moved Barehanded, we can chop down a on -forgetting about these thoughts of To most people, or even the average network of thugs like a brittle branch despair. soldier, the term Buffalo may have on a dead tree. Amidst the heat, sweat, little meaning. One might even get and our fierce nature – our cold and Considering all this and even on an answer from some service member faceless rival grows more and more our worst day, despite our heavy- stating, “A buffalo?--you mean that frustrated with our awesome abilities. loads, gruelingly long hours, and vehicle they use in Iraq, right?” Our tactics and tenacious energies smell of ammonia-soaked uniforms However, the uncommon steely-eyed constantly put pressure on their freedom - we still drove these chicken-hearted killer of 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry to maneuver. These daily grinds are not gutless cowards back to their caves of Regiment, will commence upon you by any definition an easy task. Once, repression. Almost like a modern aged like an ambush with a convictions and twice, sometimes three times a day, we terminator, stalking the misguided expressions that will leave you in great cross the secure focal point of reality, and discombobulated combatant. We awe. “We are the Buffalos! Soldiers while letting the bolt slide forward as were born for this challenge. It was in instilled with the greatest pride and we enter the enemy’s terrain. (The first our living blood, like an instinct - an honor.” five rounds were always tracers.) We animal instinct. We waited our whole are perched high upon our steely-horse, life for these events to unfold before We have families, sons, and like a group of bounty hunters in search us. May [mercy] be unto those petty daughters. We are common, yet a of a worthy rival. We never allow the fools that attempted a rage against us! patriotic group of people in a modern- contender to quash our intent, or even Our minds, stitched together, like a age of technology, globalization, and more, our pride. universal understanding between the capitalization. Plainly, it is our time to hunters of day and of the night. Some stand toe-to-toe with the fear of death Knowing in the depths of our minds say that the U.S. owned the night, - until the fear no longer remained. that death is not at our discretion, like a and the freedom fighters owned the This is our time, a time to preserve certain event, the black cloud of concern day. This might have been the case and uphold the noble and heroic approaches the grunt in different ways. henceforth; regardless of the past - we legacy of the 17th Infantry Regiment. This fear is never welcome; however, owned them both, and we set the stage! “Failure” – a word erased from our it could tighten up certain areas to When we stood together, we were an Infantry vocabulary and replaced make the warrior go the extra mile. awesome and impeccable force like that with meaningful words: “Hooah! The grunt is smart. Some will disagree of the Spartan army. An everlasting, Stack-left, Stack-right! House clear! with my opinionated comment; yet undivided force that was willingly “Mission, purpose, intent!” These however, the grunt is a true warrior. ready to conquer and take on anything new words continue to echo in the He uses this fear against his foe. A ~ continued on page 21 hall of heroes Raymond Harvey Gold Star (by the government of South CITATION Korea), a Combat Infantry Badge and seven additional medals. Captain Harvey Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous Perhaps Raymond’s finest moment gallantry and intrepidity above and came when, as Captain of Company C beyond the call of duty in action. of the 17th Infantry, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, our Nation’s highest When his company was pinned military honor. In the presentation, down by a barrage of automatic President Harry S. Truman cited weapons fire from numerous well- Raymond Harvey for “conspicuous entrenched emplacements, imperiling gallantry and intrepidity above and accomplishment of its mission, Captain beyond the call of duty in action” on Harvey braved a hail of fire and Raymond Harvey was born in Ford March 9, 1951, in the vicinity of Taemi- exploding grenades to advance to the City, Pennsylvania, on March 1, 1920 Dong, Korea. According to the Society first enemy machine gun nest, killing to Frank and Frannie (Thomas) Harvey. of the Congressional Medal of Honor, its crew with grenades. His father was in the construction Ray is one of only five Armstrong business. His mother, a Chickasaw County natives to have ever received a Rushing to the edge of the next Indian, was born in 1889 near the Medal of Honor. emplacement, he killed its crew with community of Nebo, Oklahoma. After carbine fire. He then moved the 1st living in Ford City for four years, Ray passed away on November 18, Platoon forward until it was again the family moved to his mother’s 1996 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Interment halted by a curtain of automatic fire hometown of Sulphur, Oklahoma. took place on December 6, 1996, in from well fortified hostile positions. Raymond enlisted in the United Arlington National Cemetery. In his Disregarding the hail of fire, he States Army in 1939, and served with eulogy, Lieutenant General Sackton personally charged and neutralized distinction in both the Second World said, “we are here to say goodbye a third emplacement. Miraculously War and in Korea. He retired from the to a dear friend and colleague and a escaping death from intense crossfire, service in 1962 after a career of almost distinguished member of our military Captain Harvey continued to lead the twenty-three years. family. The word ‘distinguished’ assault. doesn’t seem adequate to express the Following his retirement as a deeds and the contributions that Ray Spotting an enemy pillbox well lieutenant colonel, he was employed made for our country. The Medal of camouflaged by logs, he moved close by Northrop Corporation in California Honor was awarded to Ray for his enough to sweep the emplacement for five years, was self-employed as an heroic deeds in Korea by a grateful with carbine fire and throw grenades investment banker for the next eleven country. Ray was a gentleman of through the openings, annihilating years and served as the Director of honor, a public servant of outstanding its five occupants. Though wounded Indian Affairs for the Arizona Division distinction, an animated and articulate he then turned to order the company of Emergency Services until a stroke spirit and a colleague whose friendship forward, and, suffering agonizing pain, forced his retirement in 1981. was a delight. St. Paul in his second he continued to direct the reduction epistle to Timothy fully expressed the of the remaining hostile positions, While in the service, Raymond character of Ray; ’I have fought the refusing evacuation until assured that Harvey was decorated many times. good fight, I have finished my course, I the mission would be accomplished. These include the Distinguished have kept the faith.’” Service Cross for gallantry in combat, Captain Harvey’s valorous and three Silver Stars, three Bronze Stars, Ray was survived by his widow, intrepid actions served as an inspiration three Purple Hearts, ten Campaign Pamela Harvey of Scottsdale, Arizona, to his company, reflecting the utmost stars, two Presidential Unit Citations, daughters Cynthia Perieira, Johnece glory upon himself and upholding the with Palm (from Firestone and Margie Typer, son the heroic traditions of the military the government of ), the Chung Michael, Sister Mary Nesse and eight service. Mu Distinguished Service Medal with grandchildren. ~ continued from page 19 mortal or immortal. We were all those things America wanted and needed; we were the “Buffalos!” We liked doing this kind of job! Each day seeing the sunrise or set - we knew two things: the men and you had survived another day, and tomorrow would present your men and you with the same scenario. Will tomorrow bring us this same opportunity - the opportunity to experience it? Some soldiers showed this more than others did. Some soldiers had equipped their eyesight covertly, not to express these hidden demons. It did not matter who hid or who showed their feelings or fears. One thing was certain, no matter who goes out, we all return. There was no hiding these feelings.

Not every “Buffalo” returns home in a time of war. Faced by a cowardly enemy--trained by a nefarious and tasteless mentor - there is always the stray chance for a lone “Buffalo” returning home in a spirit-form. These heroes’ of the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, will never more roam in a life-like form. They stood in the face of absolutism - facing all fears -despite the many challenges. Their efforts of sweat, their tears, and their wits, all diminished and taken; however, never-ever forgotten. May their beautiful and everlasting souls soar throughout the open and heavenly blue sky, watching and waiting on our presence. We know and recognize their efforts are not complete. For as they wonder throughout the vast heavens, they daily persuade the heavenly highest commandant to chastise the evil spirits that attempt to deter our presence in the promotion of safety, tyranny, and freedom. They are on our sides - brothers sharing common bonds - anticipating our visit in the days to come. Buffalos! Here briefly--always remembered!

SPC LUCAS A. FRANTZ, OIF, 18 OCTOBER 2005 PFC RAYMOND L. HENRY, OIF, 25 APRIL 2006 SGT IRVING HERNANDEZ, JR., OIF, 12 JULY 2006 SSG JONATHAN ROJAS, OIF, 3 OCTOBER 2006

I wrote this in order to move beyond certain things in my life. When I safely stepped off the plane in Fairbanks, Alaska, 30 November 2006, and touched the frozen ground--I could not stop thinking about these brave members of the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment. Their families, their children, their relatives, these Soldiers lives, all gone. Erased from existence--with only unanswered questions. I could not get their sacrifices off my mind. Realizing now nothing will erase their contributions, and they will remain in our hearts, souls, and minds--forever. The selfless sacrifices these young men made will forever be an indescribable measure of brotherly-love.

David C. Dodson Previously assigned to: B co, 1, 17th INF OIF, 2005-2006

21 reunion Photos Mystic, Connecticut - 2007

Steve and Linda Justice CSM Collins, CSM Smith, and CSM Green. Three Eras of Buffalo Leadership

Association members catch up in the Hospitality Room. Buffaloes invade the Mystic Seaport 22 Some of Donald Shook’s 17th Infantry Memorabilia. Judy and Marvin Bloomer

MSG Joe Tatem and Clarence Rineck Pat Wilson and Arnold Prater

Bill Franklin, Sharon Widdop, and Dave CSM Tim Green and Donald Shook with Photographer

MSG Joe Tatem and Alfred Baumann Cathryn Williams and Roger Robertson

23 Billy and Peggy Hensley

Ev, Larry, Pat, and Dawn more reunion pics

Larry and Evelyn Haynes Lena Capliner and Robert Nortcutt

Donald and Carla Shook Ardi Isham (Gil’s better half)

George Harvey and Pat Wilson Ladies at the Chapel 24 John and JoAnn Moore more reunion pics

CSM Smith and LTC Neumann

25 NATIONAL INFANTRY MUSEUM 1. Parking lot 2. Infantry Museum 3. World War II Barracks Street 4. Amphitheater 5. River Vignettes 6. Walk of Honor (This is where the 17th Memorial will be located) 8. Airborne Jump Tower 9. Parade Grounds (All Infantry graduates will graduate from this field)

26 A special o er for members of the 17 TH INFANTRY REGIMENT ASSOCIATION

Pre-order your copy today! (Videos will ship on November 7, 2007) Order online at WWW.ALASKAINVASION.COM Call toll-free 1-800-374-9910 Order by mail by sending payment with the form below:

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____ Copies x $19.95 each = $ ______+ Shipping & Handling = $ ______Add $5.00 S&H for rst item and $1.00 for each additional item Total Amount = $ ______California residents please add 8.25% sales tax 26 27 men of truth and courage dvd “Men of Truth and Courage in a ‘forgotten war;’ the 17th Infantry Regiment in Korea” eve of the holiest week in the Jewish in the room, with the opening warning year, and here we were, at a 17th typical of all DVD’s, it appeared that Infantry annual reunion in New the gremlins were still in the room. No London, Connecticut, when my heart one seemed to know how to operate the told me that we really belonged in a complicated lighting system that linked North Carolina synagogue to atone for the hospitality room to our makeshift the sins of our generation, as well as theater, not even the hotel’s maintenance our own! One of my oldest and dearest man. At first blush, it seemed that there of friends from my Brooklyn childhood would be no show after all. Two years had driven some 70 miles from his of hard work down the drain! Suddenly, Connecticut home to join us for dinner, almost miraculously, the lights were and to view our documentary. However, dimmed and the audience became dinner was out of the question for me, silent. There would be a show after all, so he and his lovely wife were joined but how many in the audience would alone by my partner and moral support, be willing, or had the physical strength, “Executive Producer,” Nancy. to sit for three and three quarters of an hour, including intermission, to watch I knew that in about 48 hours, a film, the subject of which was well America’s most brilliant documentarian, known to most of the audience? The Ken Burns, was going to premiere his answer came through swiftly as we all For two hours, from 5:00 PM to 14 hour documentary on PBS entitled could hear the laughter, the whispered 7:30 PM, I remained alone with my “The War,” the history and stories of comments, and the hushed tearful cries thoughts in a windowless room filled World War II. When I conceived of this from time to time. It was at that moment with about 150 chairs, except for a project, we had no knowledge that he that I felt that it had all been worth the frantic trip to our fifth floor Radisson had already been working on his project aggravation, the late nights and 5:30 room, with Epson tech support holding for 4-5 years, but I did know that he AM mornings at the computer. Still, it on my cell phone. I had worked almost would have had unlimited funding and was only after the lights were on again continuously, seven days a week, for scores of support personnel. All we had at about 11:30 PM, with almost 2/3 of two years on what was now a three was myself, from camera to finished the audience still intact, that we knew hour documentary about my 17th disks, the loving support of a wonderful that we had succeeded. There were Infantry buddies in what has come wife, and the limited personal funds accolades from all quarters, including to be known as “the forgotten war.” needed to complete what we hoped many of the interviewees, Korean War I wasn’t about to allow a projector- would be a project which would make vets, and even the CO of the Stryker computer compatibility glitch spoil the 17th Infantry Regiment forever a Brigade, now stationed at Fort Lewis. the night that Nancy and I had looked part of America’s visual history. The People began to ask how they could forward to with a mixture of relief and wonderful people that we had met in obtain copies of the two DVD set, and nervous anticipation. the past two years deserved nothing money and checks began to flow in, less! despite the fact that most knew that it Almost half of our 48 interviewees, would be at least three weeks before and their spouses, were going to be in At about 7:15 PM, the door to the we could begin shipment by mail. the audience, and I wasn’t about to noisy “hospitality room” swung open, disappoint them, I thought, although I and the friendly familiar faces began We have had so much interest and seemed to have lost control over this to fill the empty seats, many with the so many orders for the DVD’s that last of a long line of computer glitches free popcorn in hand. The moment of Nancy and I have decided to have that had threatened to trash thousands truth had finally arrived. How would 1000 copies produced commercially, of hours of sometimes exhausting work the work of one man and one woman at a considerable cost, once again, to on what had become ‘a labor of love.” be received by the most important and our savings. The cost of the two disk How else to explain the maddening most critical of viewers-almost one set, in a hard case, is $29.95, plus $4.00 rush to complete the project in the hundred men who had been there, and for shipping and handling by first class promised two years to completion? who were the true players? From the It was Friday night, the Sabbath moment that there was a hush of quiet ~ continued on page 38 28 chuck shuck and gabe The Infantry is something I will never forget. The discipline, the teamwork and the lifelong friendships that I built are amazing.

I think I’ve always had it in me to be a police officer, so I focused on that and started to train with the Fort Wainwright MP’s because I wanted to re-class. I did this on my off time and on the weekends, and for almost two years I trained, until finally, in May of 2002, I left for Military Police School. I graduated at the top of my class in MP School and was assigned to the 410th MP CO, Fort Hood Texas in August 2002.

I deployed for the first time ISO It was a cold, dark Alaska day way to say, my platoon took care of them. I Operation Iraqi Freedom in November back in January of 1998. I stepped won’t go into any of the gory details. 2002. During that deployment, I off of the plane at the Fairbanks worked convoy security in Kuwait and International Airport as PVT Chuck In my days with Charlie Company did the drive to Baghdad 20 days into Shuck, and reported to the 1st –Jan 1998 to May 2002 – I met many the invasion to help with the looter Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment. I leaders that I will always look up to. patrol of what is now Camp Victory. was scared to death because I had From then CPT Tom Veale, CPT John In August 2003, we returned to Fort come to Alaska with no boots. The Vermeesch, LT Drew Hettich, 1SG Hood. day before graduation, I took them Robert Heiter, SFC Stephen Thomas, to be shined, and when I went to pick and SFC Todd Fullerton … the list In May 2004, I left for my second them up on the day that I was to leave, goes on and on, but the person that deployment to Iraq and this time was the shop was closed. has had the biggest impact on my stationed at Camp Falcon, Baghdad, life as both a soldier and a person is Iraq, where we did everything from Upon my arrival in Alaska, I was 1SG Wally Murrell. 1SG Murrell is convoy security, detainee guard, and assigned to Alpha Company 1-17 IN the NCO that I aspire to be. He had a transport, to combat patrols in the and was met by 1SG Tim Mullins. genuine concern for the soldier which I neighborhoods of Baghdad. We left He was a great guy, and every night will never forget. He is still my mentor 12 months later and returned to Fort before he went home, he walked into to this day – we talked last week on Hood where I was then taken out of the the day room where this scared private the phone. The soldiers of Charlie line company and given a break in the was watching TV. I will never forget Company were made better soldiers by 178th MP DET as the NCOIC of the his leadership and kindness. (I also his outstanding leadership. III Corps Commanding General’s PSD wore a boot size five times bigger Team and the Police bike patrol. I did than mine for about a week.) About Another person who is now part of that for about nine months and then two weeks later, I was moved to 1st my life is CSM Tim Green. When I was was sent to the Specialized Search Dog Platoon Charlie “HARDROCK” 1-17 a private walking around the battalion School in Lackland AFB, Texas where IN. Looking back on that platoon, I area, I always heard “NEVER GET I met my current partner of 19 months can say now that it was the best time of CAUGHT WALKING ON CSM’S -- SSD Gabe. my ten years in the Army. No Platoon GREEN’S GRASS.” Believe me, I was ever closer than those guys. I never took that chance. But I always After 5 months in school, Gabe and remember one of the first days there, I tried to catch CSM Green sneaking I volunteered to go back to Iraq for a was taking the trash out to the dumpster in one of the gates when I was in MP third time and on August 17th, 2006, and I met the mortar platoon, which training, but he was too sly for me (ha we left for FOB Q-West Iraq which is gave me a “SNOWBATH.” Needless ha). ~ continued on page 32 “Battle” at Fort Ord Is Realistic Monterey Peninsula Herald, Tuesday, March 28, 1941

32nd Rallies After Being Pushed Around By Attacking 17th

Its right flank pulverized and retreating for more than two hours, the 32nd Infantry combat team shortly before noon today rallied and scattered the vicious “enemy” 17th Infantry attack. Today’s “battle” climaxed a two full day “full dress rehearsal for war” between the 7th division units. A 500-yard no man’s land separated the entrenched teams at 3:30 this morning. Throughout yesterday they had stalked each other for position. At 9:30 o’clock this morning, the first battalion of the 17th, under command of Major Grady D. Epps, launched an all-out attack on the 32nd’s right flank. For a critical half-hour, the 32nd made a grim stand before the umpires ordered them to move back.

Realistic Combat

Fighting rear guard, they retreated 600 yards in the first hour; 600 more in the second. The determined troops of the 17th kept coming, running or groveling on their stomachs with all the intensity of actual com- bat.

It was not until concentrated (simulated, but nonetheless devastating) artillery fire, provided for the 32nd by the 75th Field Artillery, began to become effective that the tide of battle began to waver. The artillery bat- teries were located behind the crest of Grant-Ewing Ridge, almost two miles behind the main line of resis- tance. Col. Franklin C. Sibert finally ordered his reserve third battalion to counter attack against the casualty- weakened, but still advancing, 17th. Within another half-hour, the umpires came to the rescue of the 17th.

Impressive to both observers and combatants was the determination troops of both sides entered into the hypothetical battle. Even a drenching rain failed to slacken enthusiasm of the doughboys, many of whom spent the night in open dugouts. Officers were pleased with the effectiveness of the camouflaging and other important elements of field work. 17th picked to fight 4 Whole divisions Monterey Peninsula Herald, Tuesday, July 15, 1941

One regiment of Fort Ord infantry will represent “the enemy” against four complete war strength divisions in the giant war games to be held by the Fourth Army late in August at Fort Lewis, Wash. This was the surprising announcement made today at Ord by Brigadier General A. W. Lane, Fourth army chief of staff and author of the problem [sic] involved in the August maneuvers.

The regiment chosen for the task was the 17th, commanded by Colonel Jens A. Doe. It was indicated the unit, consisting of approximately 2500 officers and men, would act as a “flag” force and would be assumed to represent a much larger “invading enemy force.”

Special Training

A Special course of training lasting from July 17 to 31st was being planned to drill the unit in its newly designated task. Whether or not the 27th will accompany the 7th division on its maneuvers next week at Hunter Liggett military reservation has not yet been decided. Col. Doe indicated there was a possibility his outfit might represent the “enemy” at the Jolon games, supplanting the 19th Engineers who were originally selected. The Seventh’s own private war is scheduled for July 21st through 25th, inclusive.

Gen. Lane said the 17th had been chosen for its part in the August maneuvers after a conference between Major Generals Walter K. Wilson and Joseph W. Stilwell, commanders of the III army corps and the Seventh. It was believed the purpose behind pitting one regiment against four divisions and their attached corps and army troops was to provide, as closely as possible, an opportunity for the Fourth army to function as one consolidated force. 30 POW / MIA

President’s Note: we enjoy our daily pleasures – there are others who have endured and may We conducted a few new ceremonies still be enduring the agonies of pain, at this year’s reunion banquet. Both deprivation, and imprisonment. of these functions will remain a part of any future reunion. I would like to explain the meaning of the items on this table of honor. One ceremony was to honor our comrades and friends serving with The table is small, symbolizing the the 17th Infantry who gave their lives frailty of one prisoner, alone against for this great nation. A 17th Infantry his or her suppressers. Veteran from each modern day era came forward to light a candle in The tablecloth is white, symbolic of remembrance of the fallen soldiers the purity of their intentions to respond have paid the supreme sacrifice to of their era (WWII, The Korean War, to their Country’s call to arms. ensure our freedom. Vietnam, Operation Just Cause, and Operation Iraqi Freedom.) The single red rose in the vase signifies the blood they have shed in The Bible represents strength – gained through faith – to sustain those The POW/MIA table has always sacrifice to ensure the freedom of our lost from our country, founded as one been a part of our reunion banquet, beloved United States of America. This nation under God. however, I knew that there were many rose also reminds us of the families and that didn’t understand the significance friends of our missing comrades – who Let us remember – and never forget of the items on the table, so I decided keep faith while awaiting their return. – their sacrifice. to read the following statement during the banquet. What follows is the The red ribbon on the vase Remember! – All of you who description as it was read: represents the red ribbons worn on the lapels of the thousands who demand, served with them and called them comrades, who depended upon their As you entered the banquet hall with unyielding determination, a proper might and aid, and relied upon them, this evening, you may have noticed a account of our comrades who are not for surely they have not forsaken you. small table in a place of dignity and among us. honor. A slice of lemon on the plate Until the day they come home, Remember! It is set for one. reminds us of their bitter fate. The salt sprinkled on the plate reminds May God forever watch over them This table is our way of symbolizing us of the countless tears of families as and protect them and their families. the fact that members of our profession they wait. of arms are missing from our midst. They are commonly called POWs or The glass is inverted, they cannot MIAs – we call them “Brothers.” They toast with us. are unable to be with their loved ones and families, so we join together to The chair is empty. They are NOT pay humble tribute to them, and to bear here. witness to their continued absence. The candle is reminiscent of the Those who have served – and those light of hope that lives in our hearts to currently serving in the uniformed illuminate their way home, away from services of the United States – are ever their captors, to the open arms of a mindful that the sweetness of enduring grateful nation. peace has always been tainted by the bitterness of personal sacrifice. We are The American Flag reminds us that compelled to never forget that – while many of them may never return – and 31 ~ continued from page 29 oif pictures near Mosul. Gabe and I were assigned 1-17th Infantry in Mosul, Iraq to the 25 ID PMO and fell under two FA Battalions. 1-37 FA out of Fort Lewis, WA and the 5-82 FA out of Fort Bliss, Texas.

For 12 months, Gabe and I did B co NCO Re-enlists in OIF 180 combat missions, including raids, cordon and searches, TCP’s, and route clearance. Gabe left Iraq the most successful dog since the invasion of Iraq with 26 finds. We lost 14 fellow comrades during that deployment, but they will always be in our hearts.

We returned to Fort Hood about LTC Kelly congratulates NCO during three weeks ago and will be transferring re-enlistment ceremony. to Fort Meade, MD by early 2008.

As I reflect back on the past ten years, none of this would have been possible without my first 4 1/2 years being in the Buffalo regiment. I will never meet any soldiers like them again and I will forever be in debt to this organization. I am a proud life member CSM Crisostomo congratulates B of this organization and will always be 1-17th Commander during re-enlist- a team member of the “HERD” ment ceremony.

“Truth and Courage” Chuck Shuck

LTC Kelly with Interpreter during routine patrol in Mosul, Iraq.

CSM Crisostomo enjoying a bike ride with kids in Mosul, Iraq. Major Fox, BN S3 Officer with Inter- LTC Kelly conducts combat brief preter on Stryker Patrol in Mosul, prior to parol missin in Mosul, Iraq. Iraq.

C 1-17th Commander and 1SG preparing to receive com- A 1-17th preparing to receive their combat patch in bat patch in Mosul, Iraq. Mosul, Iraq.

1-17th Soldiers in Mosul, Iraq. LTC Jeffrey A. Kelly addresses Soldier’s during combat patch ceremony in Mosul, Iraq. Carla Shook working hard at the reunion

Mrs Kamaka, Larry and Ev Haynes Ulrike Bell working hard at the reunion

Janet and Chaplain John Strube LTC Neumann, Robert Connelly, and Bruce Frazer

Swearing in of the Officers and Board Doug Bell and Joe Tatem dial in their FPL Louis and Carolyn Eve Loretta and Bob Warden

Attendees waiting for Stu Namm’s premier documentary CSM Green and CSM Smith

Tomicene and Bobby Wilson JoAnn and “Mouse” Kloeker

LTC Neumann and 1-17 Recon Color Guard Saturday Night Banquet 35 member Photos

Colonel John T. Van Orsdale, 17th Infantry Commander, circa 1909

Men of the 17th Infantry training to exit troop carriers in 1941

Colonel Bernie Griffard shown here in 1973 as Alpha 1-17 Commanding Officer

Lt. Richard Gruenther receives a battlefield commission weeks before the 17th reaches the Yalu

Men of the 17th Infantry use a flame thrower against the Japanese during the Kwajalein battle in 1944 Men and equipment from the I&R Platoon (Intelligence and Reconnaissance) in 1951

LTC Jens A. Doe: Regimental Commander from 1940-1941

Members of Alpha 4-17 during Operation Just Cause in 1990

Richard Whitson receives the for actions on 22 February, 1953

Scout Platoon - 1992 Lt. Guy Daines:1st BG, 17th Infantry: 1960

37 invalid emails ~ continued from page 17 Robert Sheldon Telford needs your help mail. Checks should be made payable to either Stuart Namm or Nancy We need your help. Association HURLESS, Robert W. Namm, and sent to us at: Life Member, Robert Sheldon Telford JACKSON, James F. has been updating a list of Buffalo JIMENEZ, Joe 101 Marshview Road Veterans for years now and does a great JOHNSON, Daryle L. Hampstead, NC 28443. job in keeping veterans connected. KING, Arthur G. The below list of individuals with e- KNIGHT, Judith L. We can also be reached by e-mail mails that do not longer work and if KOPPELMAN, Charles (Charlie) at: [email protected], if there are LaMONTIA, John A. possible, please look and see if your any questions. Orders will begin to LANCE, Addison H. ship about four weeks from October 1, name is on the list or maybe someone LIFTCHILD, Richard P. that you know. If so, send Bob an LORUSSO, John 2007, presuming that the commercial update on your new information. His LOVE, Ray L. manufacturer meets its stated time information is as follows: MATHEWS, Jerry deadline. Those who have left checks McDONALD, Charles W. (Mac) with us will note that no checks or cash Robert Sheldon Telford McDOUGALL, Merle R. will be deposited until the commercial (562) 431-4442 McKENZIE, Jim process is virtually completed. If Long Beach, California MENDOZA, John anyone who has already placed an [email protected] MILLER, George H. order feels he or she cannot wait MOON, James that long, please feel free to contact AINSWORTH, Warren Ronald MOORE, Daryl T. us, and there will be an immediate ALLEN, Howard S. MOSSBURG, Robert T. refund given. $5.00 of every order, as ALLRED, James Eugene MYERSON, Robert S. promised, will be deposited with the ANDERSON, JOE Dwayne ORTH, Eldon Col. William Quinn Scholarship Fund BAUGHMAN, Richard A. POLITANO, John A. of the 17th Infantry Association. BENISCH, Jack E. PRATER, James Edmond BJERKE, 1st Sgt. QUEDENFELD, Frederick T. It is our hope that these disks will QUINN, John D. BRAMSCH, William be a legacy for your children and BURROWS, Alvin D. RAINS, Clark grandchildren as well as the generations CHAMBERS, Frank RANDEL, Samuel thereafter. Copies will be given gratis CHIMERA, Frank REED, Delbert M. CLARK, Raymond N. (Ray) REARDEN, James F. Jr. to The United States Army Museum in COBLE, James F. REX, Norman E. Carlisle, PA, The Korean War Museum COLEMAN, Carlos R. RHOADS, Harold D. in Springfield, IL, and other interested COMPTON, Bill ROBERTSON, Al museums and libraries. Our aim is that DARBY, William T. RUIZ, Jimmie you will never be “forgotten!” DALOIO, Paul SALLEE, Ike DEAN, Jack SCHULTE, Robert Note: During the screening of DIXON, Roy SLADE, Chester E. the documentary, a member leaned DOUGLAS, Linda SMITH, Jr., Art forward in the dark to identify himself ELLIS, David C. SMITH, Dennis as the soldier munching on a turkey ESTES, Bill STALLWORTH, Billy E. leg on Thanksgiving Day 1950 in the FISK, Douglas William TISDALE, Harry newsreel footage. I did not have an FREY, Harry G. TISDALE, Henry C. opportunity to get his name. Can you WALLACE, Harry GAINER, John W. please identify yourself by sending me WATTS, Don GARDNER, Mayford (Jim) an e-mail @: [email protected] GARNER, William (Bill) WELLINGTON, Charles K.

GODBEY, Jesse F. WILSON, Arthur GORRILL, Bob WILSON, Carol Warmest personal regards, HAMLER, Arthur WOTRING, Eugene D. HANES, Donald YAGLE, Herschel A. HENSLEY, Bill DiCLAUDIO, Herman Stuart HOULF, Donald A. GANNOE, Paul & HOWERTON, Georg C. HYMAN, Joseph D. Jr. HUGHES, William Nancy Namm letters to the association . . . My uncle Edward Joseph Barnak of the war, over 4000 former POW’s He lives in southwest Virginia and was a member of Company A, 1st were debriefed regarding who they had visits his daughter periodically. The Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th seen in captivity. None reported seeing next time he visits her we plan to get Infantry Division. SFC Barnak. Lacking information of together. continued survival, the U.S. Army, In mid-February 1951, the Chinese as required by Public Law, issued a I want to thank you for assistance. and North Koreans were conducting Presumptive Finding of Death on 31 I don’t know how many success stories their ‘Fifth Phase Offensive’ against December 1953. you may have had in the “looking for” the United Nations forces in South section, but mine is one of them, and Korea. In the central part of South Is there a place on your site where I helped to bring some closure to his Korea, between 11 and 18 February can post this information so that others family and to me. Again, thanks a 1951, after multiple Chinese and from the 17th Infantry Regiment may million for your help. North Korean divisional sized attacks, see it? Our hope is that there might Sincerely, H. J. Van Dyke the enemy had gained about 20 miles be survivors from the 17th Infantry against U.S., attached European, and Regiment who participated in this Republic of Korea(ROK) forces along engagement and who might be able to a 40 mile front. During this offensive, provide additional information on SFC the UN forces were able to defend Barnak. FALLEN the critical road junction at Wonju with the 2nd Infantry Division, an Thanks, attached Dutch battalion and the 187th COMRADES Regimental Combat Team and check Edward J Troche the enemy advance. To the immediate [email protected] James Riggins of Eldora, Iowa east of Wonju, the 7th Infantry (480) 314-9601 Passed Away: 18 October, 2007 Division (not yet engaged in the fight) L Company, 17th Infantry Regiment including its 17th Infantry Regiment, Additional Information: Korean War moved in behind the front line ROK Status: MIA-KIA 3rd and 5th Divisions to bolster Home town: Luzerne, PA Marlyn D Wade of Cedar Rapids, MI that flank in the wake of continuing Passed Away: 12 December, 2007 pressure from the North Koreans. On G Company, 17th Infantry Regiment 19 February, the 1st Battalion, 17th Dear Sir: Korean War: Dec 1951 - Oct 1952 Infantry Regiment, including SFC Barnak’s A Company was ordered to Early this year, I sent a letter to you Russell B Sparks of Flatgap, KY secure Hill 675, located about 15 miles requesting information on a missing Passed Away August 9th, 2007 east of Wonju. The attack covered Korean War soldier named Sgt Jack Heavy Tank Company about 2 miles of sloping ground in the King, and/or his twin brother. My Korean War: 1951-1952 face of mortar and machine gun fire, letter was published on page 29 of and the 1st Battalion succeeded in the above mentioned Jun-July, 2007 Howard J. Chambers of Kirkwood, NY pushing the North Koreans off the hill. “Bugle.” I’m happy to announce that Passed Away: 16 March, 2007 The first Battalion then moved back that letter brought results. Sgt Jack PFC, BAR/Rfl, 2nd Sq. 2nd Plt LCo. off the hill to its original line after a King’s twin brother, James, gave me a Honor Guard: Feb 1952 - Nov 1952 North Korean counterattack on the call today. He heard about my letter main battle line threatened to cut the from a series of hand-down messages unit off. Sometime during the battle from other people. We had a very long SFC Barnak became missing, the only conversation. He told me that Sgt man still unaccounted for from this Jack King’s body was never recovered engagement. The Graves Registration and that he visited Korea and viewed search campaigns that searched South Pork Chop Hill. It was great hearing Korea from 1951 to 1956 failed to from him and we plan to keep in locate any information on SFC Barnak. touch via e-mail and other forms of There is no information at this time to communication. James has a daughter indicate that he was a POW. At the end who lives only 5 to 8 miles from me.

39 new members

Upgraded to Life: Gerard E Wynkoop: Harold Leete: HQ 1-17, Feb 1952 - Nov 1952 SCOUT 4-17, 1988-89 James Wilson C 4-17, 1984-1988 Thomas F Marker: John M Chabala: 31st INF Mortar (attached to 17th: 1950) F Company, 1952-53 Daniel Jeans B and HHC 4-17, 1984-1988 Carrol F Hook: Patrick J Montgomery: G Company, Oct 52 - Sept 53 HHC 1-17, 1965-1966 Scott A. Wicklund HHC 3-17, 1990-1993 Charles S Jones: B 4-17, 1984-1993 New Life Members: George R. Donlow: Robert Hugh Patterson E Company, 1st BG, 1961-1962 C 2-17, 1968-1969 George “Pete” Cummings: Michael R Andriani 31st FA, 1950-1951 HHC 4-17, 1984-1985 Cameron E Kingery: Frank D. Rowell HHC 3-17, 1982-1984 31st FA, 1949-1951 Everett L Huff: Richard C Hamilton: G Company, Oct 52 - July 53 F 2-17, 1955-1956 Rafael V Pabon: Robert A Biederman: CSC 1-17 “Recon”, 1973-1974 D Company, 1963-1964 Harold Rhoads: Buck French served in B and HHC 4- Patrick C Butler: Service Company, 1950-1951 17, from 1990-1993 A CSC and C 2-17, 1979-1982 Winfred T Clark: Jeffrey G Miller: G Company, Dec 52 - Dec 53 A and HHC 2-17, 1975-1977 James Murphy: Buck French: HQ and Honor Guard, 1953-1954 B and HHC 4-17, 1990-1993 Richard J Ramos: Robert J Chody: C & HHC 3-17/HHC 4-17, 1983-1986 C 4-17, 1989-1993 Martin L. Freedman: Robert H Fuquay: HQ, HQs Company, 1951-1952 K Company, 1950-1951 Glen D Fergason: Gregg S. Pearson: E Company, 1951-1952 B 4-17 CO, 1987-89 Andy C McCright: New Annual Members: HHC 4-17, 1987-1990 Michael R. Andriani served in HHC Pedro Tepesano: Raymond J Rygiel: 4-17, from 1984-1985 1-17, 1954 L Company 1951-52

Colonel RandBinford, Steve andLauren Goodwin Don’t treadonme Joseph GonsalvesandColonelRandBinford James andRuthDucapJeffPam Dintleman

more reunion pics Joe Tatem, MikeJackman, andJeffDintleman Gay andCSMPeter Frazer Smith William Darby andJacobSauter Lisa, Bev, andShirley Stoddard