1st Cavalry Division Association 302 N. Main Non-Profit Organization Copperas Cove, 76522-1703 US. Postage PAID West, TX Change Service Requested 76691 Permit No. 39

Publishedsaber By and For the Veterans of the Famous 1st Cavalry Division VOLUME 62 NUMBER 5 Website: http://www.1cda.org SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 The President’s Corner Horse Detachment by 1LT Jason Vaughn Hello Troopers of the Finest Cavalry Division in the It’s been a hot one this summer at the Horse Cavalry Detachment, but that has U.S. Army. Members, it’s time to plan and get your reser- not kept us from training and making certain we represent the First Team in the vation in if you plan to attend Veterans Day in Washington, finest traditions of the cavalry! All training, team, and individual goals were D. C. in November. Dennis and I will attend and we hope achieved, and we’ve continued to provide quality excitement and dedication to to see you there. service through our community outreach and ceremonial events. We kicked off Board members, remember that in February we have the summer with the Belton Annual PRCA Rodeo Military Appreciation Night; our Board of Governors meeting here at The Great Place, where four of our troopers rendered honors to our nation and state by presenting so make your reservation and plan to attend. Dennis will the nations colors during the opening ceremony. During that same week, the All be getting information out to you and the Trustees of our American Cowgirl Chicks came by the barn and paid troopers a visit, not only to Foundations soon. compliment them on their riding skills and horsemanship, but to also thank them for Things are going well here in Texas and the Holidays will soon be here. Wishing the service and protection they provide to this country. On 13 July, the 1st Cavalry all of you happy holidays and good health early. Take care, God speed and thanks Division Chief of Staff COL Robert B. Akam and HCD Troopers participated in for all you do for the Association. the Spring Ho Parade and Festival in Lampasas, Texas. After a much needed rest If you see a veteran, active or retired, thank him for his or her service for God from our block leave period, Horse Cavalry Detachments troopers hit the ground and country; and if it is a CAV Trooper tell him about our fine Association and running with a Distinguished Services Welcome and Patch ceremony welcoming ask him to join. FIRST TEAM! the new Commanding General-Support COL (P) Douglas Gabram and several Jerry F. Eller, 808 S. 2nd St., Killeen, TX 76541-7703, (254) 526-6400, Change of Command ceremonies as well. During the last few weeks, the HCD has been preparing several events coming up in September and October. In the coming weeks, we have the Septemberfest on THE DIRECTOR’S CHAIR 14 September in Cransfill Gap, Texas, the Farm Festival and Patient Carnival at the Dennis E. Webster As usual, we have Waco VA Hospital on 18 September, The Founders Day Parade on 21 September 302 N. Main St. good things going on in McGregor, Texas and the Moody Cotton Harvest Fest in Moody Texas, on 28 Copperas Cove, TX 76522-1703 here at the Associa- September. In October, we have the Florence Friendship parade on 19 October (254) 547-6537 tion Headquarters in in Florence, Texas and the Retiree Appreciation Day on 26 October [email protected] Copperas Cove here at the barn. If you’re in the area during one of these events, come on out and Lorinda has officially retired and is spending her time doing what “retired” folks give support to the troopers and their do. We hope she enjoys her retirement, she earned it. She plans on attending the trusty mounts. next Reunion. During the summer months, we’ve This past September 13th the 1st Cavalry Division turned 92. Formed at Fort given recognition to several troopers Bliss, Texas with the 1st Cavalry, 7th Cavalry, 8th Cavalry, 10th Cavalry Regi- for the work they provide to this great ments, the 1st and 2nd Machine Gun Squadrons, Weapons Troops, 10th Light Tank Division, but the best award was given Company, 13th Signal Troop, 15th Veterinary Company, 27th Ordnance Company, to Mr. Larry Borth, our civilian trainer 43rd Ambulance Company, 82nd Field Artillery (Horse) and the 15th Quartermaster for his outstanding support and dedica- Trains assigned. The 5th Cavalry replaced the 10th Cavalry in 1922 and the 12th tion to this detachment. Mr. Borth has Cavalry replaced the 1st Cavalry in 1933. been here for more than 19 years and his The Division celebrated its birthday by hosting a Distinguished Service and work and knowledge is what keeps this Welcome Ceremony on Cooper Field and also said farewell to CSM James P. unit functioning on a daily basis. For his Norman, III who was recently chosen to serve as the I Corps Command Sergeant tireless efforts to the Army and to the 1st Major at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. CSM Norman served with Cavalry Division; the outgoing Chief of the Division as the Sergeant Major of 3-8th Cavalry and the 1st Brigade Combat Staff COL Robert B. Akam presented Team at Fort Hood and in Iraq before being assigned as the CSM for U.S. Army Mr. Borth with the Commander’s Award COL Akam presenting Mr. Borth with Japan. He is very likely the best choice available for I Corps since it has oversight for Civilian Service. We would like to the Commanders Award for Civilian over the Pacific area. Continued on pg. 2 Service. Veterans Day is coming up soon and the Association will host a Hospitality Suite at the Crowne Plaza Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia. We will DIVISION DOINGS set up a small souvenir shop, participate in wreath laying ceremonies at the World The 4th Brigade Combat Team has returned from their de- War II Memorial, the Korean War Memorial and the Memorial and ployment to Afghanistan and the 2nd Brigade Combat Team has have a Veterans Day Dinner on that evening. Information is in this issue of Saber, deployed to Afghanistan and is currently conducting operations. please come and join us if you are in the area. Our National Capitol Region Chapter 1LT Jason Togi, 24, from American Samoa was killed in Hasan works hard each year to make Veterans Day in the DC area a great success. Karez, Afghanistan on 26 August when his vehicle was attacked The Foundation of the 1st Cavalry Division Association provides scholarships in by an Improvised Explosive Device. He was the first Trooper three categories to students. Information about the programs and a listing of those assigned to the Division to die in Afghanistan and was a Combat that received scholarships in the past year are on page 12 and 13. As always, the Engineer assigned to C Co., 2nd Brigade Special Troops Battalion. Foundation appreciates your tax-deductible donations to help it help students. 1LT Togi was married. Our Taps page is pretty full this issue and we lost some great Troopers to their The 4-227th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion has now deployed new assignment at Fiddlers Green. I want to mention a personal friend of mine to the Middle East with their AH-64D Apache helicopters to con- who I met back in 1994 at Fort Irwin, California while serving with the 11th duct security cooperation, joint exercises, and training in support Continued on pg. 17. of Operation Enduring Freedom. They are attached to the 36th INDEX PAGE INDEX PAGE INDEX PAGE Combat Aviation Brigade (Texas Army National Guard) in Kuwait. 5TH CAV 5 CALENDAR 2 MOH - COURSEN 23 They have partnership events scheduled with nearby countries 7TH CAV 7 CHAPTER INDEX 15 NEW MEMBERS 2 to promote security, stability, and mutual interests in the region. 8TH CAV 8 CHAPTER NEWS 3 OTHER REUNIONS 8 The Headquarters of the 41st Fires Brigade is also deployed to 1LT Jason Togi 9TH CAV 9 CHANGE ADDRESS 2 PUC - 14 Kuwait serving as the Force Field Artillery Headquarter for Army 12TH CAV 6 ENGINEERS 20 SCHOLARSHIPS 12/13 Central Command. The 6-9th Cavalry is in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula as part of the 15TH MED 17 FOUNDATION 12 SILVER WINGS 16 20TH ARA 18 HICCUP 21 SOUVENIR SHOP 21 Multinational Force and Observers peacekeeping force. 21ST FA 23 HONOR ROLL 24 SUB RENEWAL 3 CSM James P. Norman, III has left his assignment as the First Team’s Com- 27TH MNT 11 HQ AND SPEC TRPS 22 TAPS 11 mand Sergeant Major for his next position as the I Corps CSM and senior NCO 30TH FA 10 IA DRANG FUND 13 TAPS-ACTIVE DUTY 11 for Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. CSM Norman’s replacement, who 61ST FA 4 LIFE MEMBERSHIP 3 VETERANS DAY 23 will be selected from a slate of fully qualified Command Sergeants Major by MG 82ND FA 19 LRRP/RANGER 15 VETS DAY DINNER 24 Anthony Ierardi, has not been identified at this time. 99TH FA 14 LTRS TO EDITOR 2 WANTED 8 Continued on pg. 3 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 2 Don’t Keep it a SECRET, Let us Know About It. To submit by e-mail, send to [email protected]. ARTICLE SUBMISSION Clip and Mail to 1st Cavalry Division Association Manuscripts should be originals or clear copies, either typed or printed in 302 N. Main, Copperas Cove, TX 76522-1703 near-letter quality printer mode. Word processor submissions are accepted Last 4 #’s of your SSN______DOB______via e-mail. Attach a self-adhesive label with photo information to the back Tel: (______) ______of photos and cutlines for each photo. Include name and address if the photo Rank and Name:______is to be returned. Do not send panoramic photos wider than 8.5 in. New Address: ______Articles should be received at National Headquarters no later than the 1st City: ______State: ______Zip: ______of every odd month. Any article received after the 1st of the month will be Unit: (1)______and (2)______put in on a space available basis. Date of Assign: (1)______and (2)______E-Mail:______Opinions expressed are the writers and not necessarily those of the Saber I served with the 1st Cav. Div. in (Circle one or more) Pre-WWII WWII or the 1st Cavalry Division Association. JAPAN KOREAN WAR KOREA ‘57-’65 FT BENNING VIETNAM

ADDRESS CHANGE FT HOOD GULF BOSNIA AFGHANISTAN IRAQ FT BLISS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR I DO/DO NOT authorize release of my personal info to Assn. members. To be considered for publication, letters should net exceed 300 words and I served with another military unit during a war time period? YES NO should be of general interest and in good taste. Letters express the writer’s opinion, not that of the Saber or the 1st Cavalry Division Association. SABER Political endorsement, “thank you” notes and poetry cannot be used. Form The newspaper of the 1st Cavalry Division Association letters or third-party letters are not acceptable. Letters which contain libelous published during each even numbered month at or obviously untrue statements will be automatically rejected. 302 N. Main St., Copperas Cove, TX 76522-1703. All letters must be signed with addresses and telephone numbers included. Phone: (254) 547-6537 Names will be used with the letters but addresses and phone numbers may Deadline for publication is the 1st of each odd numbered month. be omitted. Letters also may be edited for length or clarification. e-mail: [email protected] We reserve the right to reject for publication any letter received. Unused Home Page: http://www.1cda.org letters will not be acknowledged. EDITOR: Angela Murphy Letters to the Editor ASSISTANT EDITOR: Martha E. Fisher EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Dennis E. Webster Dear Editor: Here’s an invitation to those coming to Washington for Veterans Day November 11. The Memorial Day Writer’s Project honors veterans in a Writer’s Tent on SNOWBIRDS the mall on Constitution Avenue near the Wall from 11:30 to 5:30 rain or shine. If you have two addresses during the year, we need to know them. Please give us It’s open mic. Anyone can contribute. Come and tell a story, recite prose or the dates and addresses for both households. a poem you wrote, sing a song, and let your voice be heard. Or just listen: to (Circle one) Winter Summer veteran pilot and singer/songwriter, Jonathan Myer; 1st Cav member, Richard Rank and Name: ______Morris (singing songs from his Skytroopers CD and reading from his Vietnam LAST 4#s SSN:______DOB ______War novel, Cologne No. 10 For Men); Tank Commander, Jimmy Stewart; 1st 1: Address: ______Signal Brigade member, Dick Epstein; Dr. Fred Foote, Veteran poet; mother, City: ______State: _____ Zip: ______Maritza Rivera; poet activist, Sistah Joy; and others. Bring a friend. For more Dates: ______Tel: (______) ______information, visit our website at or call Dick Epstein at 301-996-3016. 2: Address: ______Richard Morris, 1LT Rifle Platoon Leader, A Co 2-5, RVN 67-68, PO Box 299, City: ______State: _____ Zip: ______Dates: ______Tel: (______) ______Hyattsville, MD 20781, (301) 559-1317, . Dear Editor, Calendar of 1st Cavalry Division Association I have a ring that I would like to return to its owner if possible. A silver colored 2013 Josten’s ring with a blue stone, an inlaid signal corps logo, with a Cav patch on one side and an eagle on the other. Inscribed around the blue stone is “Operation November 8-11 Veterans Day Gathering, Arlington, Virginia and Desert Storm”. The ring was found in Rockport, Texas in 2009. If the owner Washington, DC contacts me and can identify the initials and numbers engraved inside the ring, 2014 I will gladly return the ring to them. Feb. 28- Mar. 1 Board of Governors Meeting, Killeen, Texas Sincerely, Paul Leszczynski, PO Box 626, Aquebogue, NY 11981, . Horse Detachment News Dear Editor, Continued from pg. 1 Thank you very much for this scholarship grant. I appreciate all the support congratulate Mr. Borth on his accomplishments as well as bid farewell to COL I have received from the Foundation of the 1st Cavalry Division Association Akam and wish him good luck on his next assignment in Washington, DC. as I continue my medical training. Medical school has been exciting and fasci- As always, we conduct demonstrations at the detachment on Thursdays at nating. This scholarship helps ease the financial burden of my education, and 1000 hours. This is the time we use to train new mounts and troopers, and invite therefore helps me achieve my educational and career goals. I appreciate the the public to come out and enjoy the show. Feel free to call ahead and reserve kindness and generosity of the donors of the Scholarship Program for making some seats at (254) 287-2229. You can also find us on Facebook (Horse Cav- this scholarship possible. alry Detachment) where we post pictures from the barn and let you know about Sincerely, upcoming events and ceremonies. Nicole Strickland, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Medical School Class We tie today’s First Team Troopers to the Division started 92 years ago. of 2015 NEW MEMBER LISTING Dear Editor, PVT ALMONTE, MOISES NJ 3BCT 1307 Thank you to the Foundation of the 1st Cavalry Division Association for your PFC ASTORGA, ADRIAN CA 1BCT 1307 support of my education. Your $1200 award has eased some of the financial SFC BALLINGER, CYNTHIA KY HHC 615ASB 0607 burden associated with graduate school. Because of your generosity, I’ve been SFC BANKS, KENNETH L. TX 3BCT 1307 able to continue pursuing my MS in Environmental Studies. MAJ BEARDEN, JR., STEVEN R. TX HHC 1CDH 1307 Staying enrolled as a full-time graduate student has also opened doors to amaz- COL BOYLE, PATRICK J. IL HHC 2-8C 6907 ing internship opportunities. I was able to intern in a D.C. Senate office this past SPC BUCKALLEN, PRESTON MO 1ACB 1307 summer (through the Udall Foundation Native American Program) because I MSG CAESAR, PATRICK JAMES VA HHC 4STB 0705 could focus on getting good grades during the semester instead of working extra PFC CARVER, TAYLOR M. CA 1BCT 1307 hours. CERRONE, FRANCIS R. MA 1323 1-ASSOC Kind Regards, SGT CHRISTIAN, JR., RONALD TX 1BCT 1307 Nora Y. Cata CPT CLIFFORD, SEAN L. TX 3BCT 1306 CPT COOKE, JAMES TX HHT 1-9C 0912 Dear Editor, SSG CORZO, VINCENT R. HI C 206FA 0403 I will use the money granted to me to continue my pursuit in knowledge and SP-5 CRAPSER, GARY OR C 8ENG 6706 education at University of Texas at Austin. Thank you very much. PFC CUNNINGHAM, EVANDER CA C 2-5C 1307 Luis Figueroa PVT DASHO, SEAN E. NJ 1BCT 1306 MAJ DELAHUNTY, BERNARD J. AP 1-7C 5711 Dear Editor, E-3 DEMMONS, JOHNATHAN KY 3BCT 1307 I will be furthering my education in Criminal Justice at Sam Houston State SP-5 DENNER, III, WILLIAM HAROLD VA HHC 1CDH 6709 University by using the awarded money from the 1st Cavalry Division Associa- SP-5 DIAZ, ALBERTO FL C 1-12C 6908 tion scholarship to purchase the books required for my strenuous classes. SSG DURHAM, ROBERT TX 3BCT 1307 Nahira Figueroa MAJ FOWLER, DARREN B. TX HHC 1CDH 1307 Daughter of SFC Hiram F. Figueroa PFC FREEMAN, JR., JESS OK 7C 5807 PFC GRIGSBY, DAVID KY C 2-19FA 6410 Dear Editor, E-7 HALL, MCARTHUR GA B 1-7C 6601 I will be using the money from this scholarship to earn a bachelor’s degree in MAJ HEQUEMBOURG, MICHAEL S. TX 3BCT 1307 Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University, where I will be an Honors student, MAJ HERTEL, WILLIAM TX HHC 1-12C 9512 and a member of the Corps of Cadets and Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band. MAJ HILTS, JAMES M. PA 1-7C 6803 Nicholas Alexander Continued on pg. 4 Continued on pg. 3 Page 3 saber SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 LIFE APPLICATION/SUBSCRIPTION RENEWAL BUSINESS STYLE CARDS are available at 200 for $15.00. No hassle with having to carry legal size sheets of CHAPTER NEWS paper (Life Membership Applications) or sub forms. Orders will be sent to printers JAMES J. MASON WEST MICHIGAN CHAPTER for printing when 3-4 are accumulated. Please be patient with us. Sample below. It has been a difficult year for the Chapter since going to the new Quarterly (Actual size 3” x 2”) Meeting schedule. January saw heavy snowfall that required the meeting to be 1st CAVALRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION cancelled and April saw record rain and localized flooding to also cause cancel- 302 N. Main St. lation. Participation waned again in July with the majority of members out of Copperas Cove, TX 76522-1703 state. I’m hopeful that the October report will show some good things that have (254) 547-6537 happened. We again hosted Bingo at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans and [email protected] are constantly recruiting when we are out in the community. The last Bingo of the NAME year will be on 29 December. Please visit our web page at to see what we are up to or contact me. Bob Anderson, Secretary UNIT NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY CHAPTER DATES OF ASSIGNMENT The Chapter will hold its Fall Meeting on Saturday, October 26, 2013, at the Ridgefield Park Elks Club in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey. The meeting begins STREET ADDRESS PHONE: at 1100 hours. Details and the guest speaker have not been set but will be an- CITY, ST, ZIP (000) 000-0000 nounced prior to the meeting. A “Special Announcement” about the future of E-MAIL: (000) 000-0000 Cell the New York-New Jersey Chapter will be made at the meeting. Keep up with Chapter events by seeing the chapter on Facebook. You don’t have Enroll me as a Life Member...... $10.00 to belong to Facebook just type in a Google Search “New York New Jersey Cav- alry.” It is free. No politics, no propaganda, no BS. Bob Arbasetti, President Renew my subscription...... $10.00 SHERIDAN’S CAVALRY CHAPTER The Chapter is working the 2014 Reunion issues regularly to insure the proper New or Renewal of Associate Membership...... $15.00 treatment of our guests next year. I have heard some concerns expressed about coming to “Chicago” and I want to dispel those concerns. Whether flying or D-Trooper...... $25.00 driving you will not have to brave the troublesome parts of Chicago or the Business Cards ...... $15.00 suburbs. Oak Brook is a fine, secure area (as much as any place can be these $10 covers your subscription to SABER for one year. days!) if you follow common sense and valid directions. We are working some $25 makes you a D-Troop member plus a one year subscription. transportation issues to provide reasonable, safe routings for those troopers that $50 makes you a D-Troop member plus a one year subscription and you receive want to venture off alone to a specific event or place. Rockin’ for the Troops a suitable poster or print. was held on 20 July. This was the annual concert event hosted by Operation $100 makes you a D-Troop member plus a one year subscription and you receive Support Our Troops – America. Gary Sinise and the LT Dan Band have been a First Team print. the headliners previously but he was unable to come this year so Ronnie Dunn, $500 makes you a Silver Brigade member plus a 10 year subscription. formerly of Brooks and Dunn, was the lead act. Mother Nature played rough $1,000 makes you a Gold Brigade member plus a 20 year subscription. with us and sent a strong line of thunderstorms just before he was to take the All D-Troopers receive certificates suitable for framing. stage. The park was cleared out and people went to their cars, trucks, etc. or one Brigade members receive handsome 1st Cavalry wall plaque. of the hard buildings on the site for the duration. Finally the light show stopped, All donors ($25 or more) receive mention in the Honor Roll column and may the stage was dried off and the concert started – but for a significantly smaller dedicate gifts. D-Troop milestones can be achieved cumulatively. We will keep crowd than would have been there earlier. Several troopers stayed for the show track of your contributions.. – I was not one of them. Associate Membership - for those with no service with the 1st Cav. Div. We held our annual picnic on 10 August once again at the American Legion $15 one year Associate membership plus a one year subscription. Post in Roselle where we regularly meet. In excess of 40 troopers and family $150 Life Associate plus a five year subscription and you receive a framed members gathered for some good old-fashioned camaraderie and good food. certificate. The main meal was supplied by the Chapter and each trooper was asked to bring a salad or a dessert to share with one and all. I can tell you that there is not an LAST 4 NUMBERS OF SSN ______DOB ______overwhelming fear of diabetes in this crowd as desserts outnumbered salads by Rank ______Name______almost 3:1! Address______Spur ride – We have a project going to create the qualifiers for a spur ride City ______State ______and then authorization for chapter members. Any combat veterans are already Zip ______Phone (______) ______qualified but we’re looking for something all-inclusive and horse related. As Dates Assigned _(1)______(2)______this membership is not made up of only 20-somethings we will not be doing an I served with 1st Team in Unit (1)______and APFT type event but focusing more on the horse itself. If any other chapters have (2)______developed something similar we would appreciate receiving their experiences or advice. E-mail ______Christmas Party – Saturday, 7 December 2013 will be the annual Chapter Christmas dinner and gift grab bag that all enjoy. We enjoy each other’s company I Authorize release of information to: No one___ Other Members only___ as we are a lucky band of brothers. Bruce Peterson, President Other Members and USAA Only___. Division Doings I served with the 1st Cavalry Division in (Circle one or more) Continued from pg. 1 Pre-WWII WWII Japan Korean War Korea ‘57-’65 The following stories from the Troopers of the Division’s Public Affairs Team Vietnam War Fort Hood Gulf War Bosnia Afghanistan Iraq tell some of what is going on in the 1st Cavalry Division. Have you served with any other military unit during a war time period? YES NO Spartan Battalion Opens Line of Communication in South by SGT Quentin Letters to the Editor Johnson, 2nd BCT, PAO, 1st Cav. Div. Continued from pg. 2 PARWAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan – With elements of the 2nd “Black Jack” Dear Editor, Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas, spread across I am thrilled to have been selected as the recipient of this scholarship. I am a multiple regions within Afghanistan, the brigade commander, COL Robert Whittle pre-nursing student at Central Texas College with a strong love for medicine and Jr., relies on multiple command assets to provide him with an overall view of helping others. Although my short-term goal is to earn my Registered Nursing the battlefield. degree, in the future I have not discounted the possibilities of achieving my The 2nd “Spartans” Brigade Special Troops Battalion, Black Jack, located in BSN, my ARNP, or maybe even medical school. In difficult financial times this Kandahar province is one of those valuable assets maintaining brigade intelligence scholarship will mean that I can continue my education without further depleting and support throughout the southern region of Afghanistan as a tactical assistance our household budget. I sincerely thank the 1st Cavalry Division Association command, LTC Archie Herndon, 2nd BSTB commander, said. for providing this opportunity and believing in my passion for learning. Parts of three Black Jacks battalions currently operate in the south conducting Mercedes Vitiello security, intelligence, and logistical support, he added. “We serve as a command and control for the brigade in the southern part Dear Editor, of Afghanistan, tracking and facilitating Black Jack operations here so I would like to thank the 1st Cavalry Division Association for allowing me we can provide COL Whittle with critical information,” Herndon added. to be one of their scholarship recipients. This scholarship will most definitely Information that streams from a positive collaboration between Black Jack units provide assistance towards my college degree at Kansas State University. I am in the southern region, especially 1st “Mustangs” Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regi- truly thankful for all of those individuals who have worked so hard to make this ment, he said. scholarship possible. I know the next phase of my life is going to be a great “We have great communication with all the Black Jack elements in our area,” challenge, and I am truly looking forward to the journey. I also would like to say Herndon said. “The Mustangs are great enablers and helped cover all our required thank you to my father, Chaplain (LTC) Addison Burgess, Sr. for his dedication training upon arrival in country.” and service to this great country, for without him, I know this scholarship would Logistical support is key too, as the TAC receives necessary supplies from other not have been available to me. surrounding units, while coordinating with other Black Jack assets to provide Forever grateful, them with any supplies they may need, added SSG Toya West, 2BSTB logistical Addison Burgess, Jr. noncommissioned officer-in-charge. “As we receive property and turn-ins we ensure any equipment that can be Dear Editor, utilized by the brigade we get it to them or our outlining units,” West said. The 1st Cavalry Division Association scholarship will go towards my tuition at With no real constraints on logistical matters, as the drawdown continues and the University of Mary Hardin Baylor where I will pursue a degree in nursing. support for the brigade goes up, they are prepared to handle any situation West My goal is to become a physician assistant where I will specialize in pediatric said. oncology. Herndon agreed saying he has full confidence in his young team, “They have Lexy Moreno a lot of potential, can absorb knowledge and handle any added responsibilities the brigade deems necessary.” Continued on pg. 23 Continued on pg. 9 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 4 61st FA News Gordon Cress I’m glad arrangements. Rich noted that his wife Audrey has walked now for the first time 6562 Windflower Dr. to report since her knee replacement surgery back on April 8th. Do hope that her progress Carlsbad, CA 92011-2508 t h a t m y gets better from here on. Dick was so very enthusiastic over the job that Paul (760) 918-0470 c a t a r a c t Moser did on the last reunion in September last year. It must have been quite [email protected] s u r g e r y an affair and I’m sorry I missed it. It would surely be nice if we could finally came out get together and have just one reunion for all the 61st alumni before it’s too late very well and that I’m seeing things a lot clearer these days. I’m also back to for all of us. the softball wars and enjoying getting out there in the fresh air and belting a few Our Spyder Riders of San Diego group had a nice Saturday ride down Pacific balls around. Even managed to put a few more miles on the Spyder motorcycle Coast Highway on Saturday July 27th and we wound up at Five Guys Hamburg- and that’s always good. My wife and daughters threw me a big 80th birthday ers. They do a terrific job on the hamburgers and we all had a very nice ride party in mid-August and that was a fun time. A whole bunch of family, fellow under beautifully overcast skies, temperatures in the 70s and a delicious lunch. Kiwanians, softball teammates and friends showed up and we all enjoyed an Can’t beat that! I’m buying a backrest for the motorcycle and that ought to make evening of friendship and camaraderie. I’m still doing the Meals on Wheels thing it a little more comfortable on the longer trips. Had one on the Gold Wing and and I usually pick up an old friend of mine (he’s 92 now) and take him along enjoyed it. for an outing. Tom was among the first wave to land in France on D-Day and Here’s an update from mid-July on Ol’ John Hasselmeier from his son… “Dad went through the whole European Campaign without a scratch. He’s living in is home! We got home around 4 p.m. today. He will be under home health care. an assisted living facility in the neighboring city of Vista. He was my first boss We’re certainly appreciative of all your prayers and would sure appreciate more, when I finished college in 1960 and went to work as a stress engineer at Strato please. Thanks once again. God Bless You All, John Hasselmeier, Jr.” That is Engineering in Burbank. Later he wound up working for me at Weber Aircraft great news, John. And thanks so much for keeping us up to date on your Dad’s and we’ve been friends since we first met! Wow, that’s 53 years! status. Got a letter from Bill Stewart on the reunion at Branson in May. Bill says that Fred “Pink” Martin recently found an old friend and here are a couple of their everyone had a great time and they’re going to do it in Branson again next year on recent (August) emails… “Hi Adam: Nice to hear from you. Sounds like you May 4th through the 8th. Those attending the event this year included Frank and had a very nice stay in Europe. Glad that your L3 is still in good shape. I went Angie Burr, Jimmy and Janelle Marks, Bob Murphy and Phyllis Brende, Bob and to the vintagewings web site and it was interesting. I had flown 18 of the aircraft Mara Hoppe, Bruce and Karen Tafoya, Percy Mohr, Harry Olsen, and Bill and Pat shown and it brought back memories of days gone by. I will soon be 93 years old Stewart. Curt Aronson reported in ill and wasn’t able to attend. The group had and have just graduated to a walker! It is a 4 wheeler, and I cruise a lot less than a good time relating the events of last year and telling stories of their adventures the Mach .82 that I used to in Lear Jets. I added up the jets I have flown the other in Japan and Korea. They had to leave Bob Murphy in the hospital, but Phyllis day and there were 14 of them. It is nice to stay in touch with you, and it brings reported he was discharged in a day or two and they made it home all right. Bill back a lot of good memories. My oldest daughter (Ginger) and her husband Peter also reported that he had received a letter from Monica Iglesias and she is doing just returned from a trip to Canada. They flew to Vancouver, went sightseeing well. She noted that Brenda Gary had a fall, but is now okay. The Honor Flight and took a train ride for 18 hours and wound up in the ice fields, walked on a program providing free flights for veterans to the WWII and Korean monuments glacier, and flew home out of Calgary. Perhaps now that you are home, you can was noted. (It’s a great program and I know several folks who have participated do some more L3 flying. Cheers for now. Fred Martin” in it. They all report that it was a very moving and memorable experience). Adam replied to Fred’s email as follows… “Hello Pink, even at 93 I bet dollars Vivian Lytle says she’s still making adjustments to her life. It’s been almost a to...... , that you can still take off round a bend in an L3. I assume that is three in year since Dale passed, but she thinks of him every day. Otherwise she’s doing the front and one at the back ...cos you are a taildragger driver! That is amazing fine. Bill closed with “I always think that it may be last time I see all of you, how many of the aircraft that you flew, it really was an age when pilots had a skill so I really appreciate my time with you. God bless all of you.” Bill included a (not forgotten) that is so much more advanced that what we do today....people listing of all the reunion sites since 1979. They covered Rosemont, Minnesota; say to me, you fly a taildragger as if it was something special....but if you could Fort Hood, Texas; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Fort Sill, Oklahoma; El Paso, look at your log books …well! Of course I do sort of tell them it is not the same Texas; Omaha, Nebraska; Las Vegas, Nevada; Orlando, Florida; Oklahoma City, as a front wheel...all ego of course. Managed to go for a 1.5 hour flight in the L3 Oklahoma; Kansas City, Missouri; Peoria, Illinois; Eagan, Minnesota; Lafayette, tonight...low, slow and smooth,., of course there was not anyone trying to shoot Louisiana; Branson, Missouri; Niagara Falls, New York; Deadwood, South Dakota; me down .....but still! That is so interesting about your daughter, my eldest and Nashville, Tennessee; New Orleans, Louisiana; Chattanooga, Tennessee; Sugar youngest daughters are now living and working in Vancouver British Columbia, Creek, Ohio; Northern KY, Kentucky; and Springfield, Illinois. That’s quite a and I know the glacier well outside of Calgary (Athabasca?) as we lived in Cal- list. Thanks for the letter, Bill. I know everyone appreciates all the effort you gary 1982-85. It is very beautiful, and the train journey that they took through and Pat put into these reunions. the Canadian Rockies is truly spectacular! I wonder what happened to the last In our never ending endeavor to keep you informed… “Remember the I-E one or two L3’s in Tokyo....perhaps still there, scrapped, or back to USA? I keep rule; I before E except after C or when you want to pull off a feisty heist on a re-reading about your night, reduced vis landings in the far east....just amazing!... weird beige foreign neighbor named Keith.” Don’t bother to thank me, it’s all just a different league. Talk soon Pink, love to hear about your experiences and part of the service! my family ask all the time if you have written. Cheers for now, Adam.” Nice to I scanned sev- hear about old friends renewing acquaintanceships. eral of the photos Received this sad note regarding Bob Murphy from Bill and Pat Stewart/Phyllis from the Korean Brende on July 26th… “I have sad news to report. Bob died yesterday morning War provided by about 3 a.m. from all of his health problems including a heart attack while he was Don Duggleby in the hospital. Ever since Branson he hadn’t been feeling very well but it all and we’ll try to came to a head this past week. Sunday morning about 4:30 we took him to the include a cou- ER and he was admitted to the hospital. He was unconscious from that time until ple in each ar- his death. You can go on line to the Mahn Funeral Home in Lake City to see his ticle. Here are obituary. I’m so glad that Bob was able to attend the past reunion in Branson in two showing the spite of the fact that he wasn’t feeling well and became hospitalized. He enjoyed 105mm howit- the activities and seeing everyone. He was a wonderful man and partner and I will zers somewhere miss him. Sta Bueno, Phyllis.” Our condolences to Phyllis and the family. in Korea circa I had contacted Jane Arthur in late July and she replied… “Gordon, I am get- 1951. There are ting along fine and living in our Palm Desert (California) house that we enjoyed no IDs on the fellows shown in the pictures. Don was telling me that he just shot for a few months before Tom died. Even if you live in paradise, one needs to lots and lots of pictures and never got around to labeling them or putting dates get away some -- and I do that! I visited Prince Edward Island in addition to the on them. In fact, he said he lost many more when a friend took the film with hike along the Fundy trail in NB with Road Scholars (Elderhostel).” Glad to him on R&R to Japan, got drunk and couldn’t remember where he left them to hear that Jane is doing well and staying active. be developed. Heck of a In a late August note from Bill Stewart… “I had a nice talk with Richard Weakley note! the other night. Learned quite a bit about the Chitose-Younguns. It finally came Got a nice long phone down to maybe they will attend our reunion in 2014. I have always included an call from Rich Weakley open invitation to any of them that wanted to join us for the reunion. No strings on July 28th. I understand attached. Neither of the groups have enough anymore to have a big reunion. In that Rich and Bill Mc- other news Brenda Gary is still having a lot of trouble with her leg. I think she Spadden are co-hosting could use a lot prayer power. I’m sure she would enjoy hearing from any of you. the next Chitose-Young- Her email is .” It looks like progress here! Could hans group reunion, also it be that we might just be having one big happy reunion soon? I certainly hope to be held in Branson. so. Stay tuned for further developments. Not sure what the dates I thought I’d add a little humor just to brighten up your day… “The fattest knight at are yet, but we’ll let you King Arthur’s round table was Sir Cumference. He acquired his size from too much pi.” know as soon as Rich Take care, ‘Sta Bueno and keep those cards, letters, phone calls and e-mails and Bill have made the coming! New Member Listing SGT MARTINEZ, RAHMINDAH PEHNII TX B SSG ORTIZ, REINALDO TX 1CDH 1307 Continued from pg. 2 27BSB 1112 MAJ OTOSHI, ELIAS D. TX HHC 2-5C 1307 SFC JONES, JACQUELINE D. TX 1BCT 1307 CPT McKEE, GEORGE W. PA HHC 1-5C 6508 SGM OWENS, BRAD T. TX 2-5C 1307 CPL KRAMER, LEROY IA A 1-77FA 6512 MR. McMAHON, BOB OR 1322 1-ASSOC CW3 PARKER, STEVAN D. TX A 3-227AVN E-5 KROOHS, JR., DONALD J. NC D 1-7C 68 E-5 MERRITT, JR., LU VA HHB 1-77FA 6906 1307 E-5 LAHAR, BILLY KS D 2-7C 6705 COL MILHORN, JEFFREY L. TX HSC HHBN SGT PRINCE, ANTONIO B. TX 2BCT 1307 SSG LEE, BOBBY R. TX C 1-7C 6905 1308 E-5 PYLMAN, GREGORY JAMES CA A 1-5C SSG LEVALLEY, JASON S. TX HHT 3BCT MAJ MINOR, ERIC TX 1CDH 1307 6803 1307 SFC NIELSEN, DOUGLAS TX 4-9C 1004 PFC REED, JOHN C. TX 4BCT 1307 SP-4 MALONEY, RICHARD F. C T 545MP 6707 PVT NUESSLE, DANIEL MD 1BCT 1307 Continued on pg. 24 Page 5 saber SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013

5th CAV News S q u i r r e l to ask all the Vietnam veterans to please stand. I thank you for my life. I thank Allan F. Foster Hunting: It is you for your sacrifices, and I thank you for giving me the freedom and liberty 732 E. College Ave. late August. I have today. I now ask all veterans, firefighters, and police officers, to please Westerville, OH 43081-2442 Summer’s over, stand. On behalf of all first generation immigrants, I thank you for your services fall is coming. and May God bless you all.” (614) 891-4345 This morning Khe Sanh: Mortar Platoon SGT Magno Tulfo writes, “I have a copy of the there was just a 1st Cav Division Newspaper Cavalier Vol 2, No 73. 1st Air Cavalry Division hint of a chill in April 24, 1968. I got this newspaper in 1968 while I was in Vietnam. The big the air. A light misty rain was sputtering and falling in the woods behind my headline is “Cav takes over Khe Sanh.” It has a picture of skytrooper PFC Juan cottage. The squirrels were running, a group of turkeys came through, followed Forfondi shaking hands with Marine Lance Corporal James Hallebuick across by a doe and a yearling. Hunting season is here. As soon as I get back from the barbed wire perimeter in Khe Sanh. I came across the name of Company Gatlinburg I will get some hunting in. It renews my spirit. I always hunt my Commander Douglas Verdier, as well as PFC Juan Fordondi. It could be that favorite spot. It is a grove of mature hickory and oak. I go in and lay down they were from C Company 2-5 Cav. My D Company 2-5 made a combat Air on my back, surrounded by the smell of the forest floor and the quiet sounds of Assault into Khe Sanh with Commander CPT Joe Carpenter. His RTO was the woods. In no time I am ‘being still’ and snoozing lightly. Something will wounded. The rifle platoons were engaged in a heavy firefight with the NVA. I awaken me and after a while I will open my eyes and above me the tree tops are was in charge of the Mortar Platoon at that time. We may have been the second alive with squirrels playing, running and jumping. I try to “be still” in that little or third to cross the perimeter into Khe Sanh. corner of the beautiful creation. It gives me rest. In returning to that wonderful March 1969, 2nd Battalion 19th FA: LT Sam Ault writes, “It was in March creation I find rest and quietness; and, ‘old Pete’ (PTSD) becomes small and 1969 while operating out of LZ Tracy along the Vam Co Dang River not far insignificant. from Cambodia. I was FO for A Co 1-8 Cav. On this occasion A Co. 1-8th had School Teachers: I recently ran across a posting in the 1st CAV Guestbook by a been made OPCON to B Co. 2-5 Cav. This is their story as best as I remember Ms. Marsha Thaler. Back in 1966 she had her students write letters to 1st CAV 40 years later. I was sometimes left out of the loop by the captain and this was Troopers. The letters ended up with B 2-5th CAV. Several men wrote back. one of those occasions. Both companies set up in night positions overlooking Recently Ms. Thaler ran across some copies of those letters and she would like the Cambodian border. That night we could see many trucks with headlights on, to give them to a Museum, and she would like to contact any of the men that making their way into , where the headlights would be turned off. may still be around. They are: Arron Brown, Dan Watson, Frank Arnall, Steve B Company was about eight kilometers to our east. All was quiet on the front Feheberg, Edward Walsh, Santo Areana and Michael King. These men were when we heard artillery impacting near B Company. Gunships were scrambled serving in October 1966. Can anyone help her? Thanks, Pat Bieneman: Born out there and were met with up to 50 heavy machineguns firing from Cambodia. in Strife, Brothers for Life. They had to turn off their running lights to avoid those weapons. I could hear on Agent Orange: Gene Lang writes, “I don’t think a lot of Veterans think about the Fire Direction Net that B Company was in a fix. Final protective fires were Agent Orange and how it affects their body. By the time they realize something raining down on B Company. I shot illumination toward Cambodia to make is wrong it is too late. I just got the results of my biopsy yesterday. Unfortunately sure we were not next. Nothing came at us. it was not what I wanted to hear. I have B-cell Lymphoma. That is linked to The next morning ‘6’ got a call, he was told to ready our company to be flown Agent Orange. That would be the third thing I have that is linked to Agent to B Company. We were to recover bodies, weapons, and explosives. It was Orange: I have Diabetes type 2, Heart Disease (4 stents), and now I have this. a sad, sad day for A Company, but more sad for B. In the course of four hours Tuesday I am going to my internist to have a full blood work up, just to be on the we recovered 25 bodies, and numerous weapons, both ours and the enemy. You safe side. Attached is a copy of all the things that are linked to Agent Orange. could see where the enemy dragged hundreds back to Cambodia. The FO for Live healthy. There are steps Veterans can take to help prevent heart disease, B Company was still out there and maybe some B Company Officers. Later cancer, and other common diseases. Get the recommended health screenings, the FO for B Company told me that their listening post heard movement and he eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly and don’t smoke. . Veterans should take care and be observant of very near the B Company perimeter. Alpha Co., 1-8th could not help. If any B their body. I know we are losing a lot of Vietnam veterans to Agent Orange. So Company guys can provide any more information let me know. take care. Detours: Steve writes,” I read your column in the SABER. Sleeping like you Quang Nguyen: On Saturday, July 24th, 2010 the town of Prescott Valley, do is in my opinion called the ‘Ever Present Vigilant’ syndrome. So many of Arizona, hosted a freedom rally. Quang Nguyen, a first generation Vietnamese us have it. I found a way to combat PTSD, but this damn light sleeping, I don’t immigrant, was asked to speak on his experience of coming to America and know if there’s a way to think myself out of it. The VA gave me drugs, but hell, what it means. He spoke the following in dedication to all Vietnam Veterans. I’d wake up in the morning needing to think for work, and I was groggy...so I Thought you might enjoy hearing what he had to say. “35 years ago, if you were gave them back. I don’t need to be drugged. I had a gal explain a lot about to tell me that I am going to stand up here speaking to a couple thousand patriots, PTSD to me. I thought about it for a few days and then tried some mental in English, I’d laugh at you. Man, every morning I wake up thanking God for exercises...and you know, I rarely have it anymore. Most of us saw crap we putting me and my family in the greatest country on earth. I just want you all to never ever wanted to see...and that memory was so bad, it burned a path in our know that the American dream does exist and I am living the American dream. I brains. It’s called trauma. Trauma happens when we see or have to do things was asked to speak to you as an American. If you hadn’t noticed, I am not white that we never ever wanted to do...as humans, and it registered on our brains. For and I feel pretty comfortable with my people. I am a proud US citizen and here lack of better words, it made a big intersection in our brains, easy to go back to, is my proof. It took me 8 years to get it, waiting in endless lines, but I got it, and over and over again. What I did, was build detours in my mind...and instead I am very proud of it. I still remember the images of the in 1968, I of just relapsing into remembering those traumatic times, when I start down was six years old. Now you might want to question how a 6-year-old boy could those paths I will detour...and the detours are some of my happier thoughts...and remember anything . Trust me, those images can never be erased. I can’t even they can be anything. So when I start down the thought path to a bad thought, imagine what it was like for young American soldiers, 10,000 miles away from but before I get there, I take a right or left, get off the path, and end up at some home, fighting on my behalf. 35 years ago, I left South Vietnam for political good thought place in my brain. It’s fairly easy to do, takes just a few tries asylum. The war had ended. At the age of 13, I left with the understanding to get it down, and rarely do I find my way to the image I never want to see that I may or may not ever get to see my siblings or parents again. I was one of again. I know my granddad had the same thoughts. He was a WWI Vet. I have the first lucky 100,000 Vietnamese allowed to come to the US. Somehow, my five uncles who were WWII Vets and all of them would get that thousand yard family and I were reunited five months later, amazingly, in California. It was a stare...I now know what it was...but me, I’ve learned not to go back there...I’ve miracle from God. If you haven’t heard lately that this is the greatest country on learned how to make mental detours...and it works great.” earth, I am telling you that right now. It was the freedom and the opportunities ‘This is my Brother’s Story’: Clyde Harvey writes, “I am Clyde Harvey...This presented to me that put me here with all of you tonight. I also remember the is my brother’s story. I thought I needed to share this story with his unit...and, barriers that I had to overcome every step of the way. My high school counselor if by chance, anyone who knew told me that I cannot make it to college due to my poor communication skills. him, would you please contact I proved him wrong. I finished college. You see, all you have to do is to give me. God Bless you all.” (A.) this little boy an opportunity and encourage him to take it and run with it. Well, His Biography: Harvey joined I took the opportunity and here I am. This person standing in front of you the Army from his hometown in could not exist under a socialist/communist environment. By the way, if you the Hegewisch community area think socialism is the way to go, I am sure many people here will chip in to of Chicago, Illinois in 1965. By get you a one-way ticket out of here. And if you didn’t know, the difference June 21, 1967 he was serving as between socialism and communism is an AK-47 aimed at your head. That was a Specialist Four in Company my experience. In 1982, I stood with a thousand new immigrants, reciting the B, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Pledge of Allegiance and listening to the National Anthem for the first time as Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division an American. To this day I can’t remember anything sweeter and more patriotic (Airmobile). During a firefight on than that moment in my life. Fast forwarding, somehow I finished high school, that day, in Binh Dinh Province, finished college, and like any other goofball 21 year old kid, I was having a great Republic of Vietnam, an enemy time with my life. I had a nice job and a nice apartment in Southern California. bullet hit and activated a hand I someway and somehow had forgotten how I got here and why I was here. One grenade attached to Harvey’s belt. day I was at a gas station, I saw a veteran pumping gas on the other side of the Unable to remove the live device island. I don’t know what made me do it, but I walked over and asked if he had from his belt, he ran towards an served in Vietnam. He smiled and said yes. I shook and held his hand. The enemy machine gun emplacement grown man began to well up. I walked away as fast as I could and at that very until the grenade exploded, killing moment, I was emotionally rocked. This was a profound moment in my life. I him and momentarily halting the knew something had to change in my life. It was time for me to learn how to be enemy’s fire. Harvey, aged 20 at a good citizen. It was time for me to give back. You see, America is not just a his death, was buried in Cedar Park place on the map, it isn’t just a physical location. It is an ideal, a concept. And Cemetery, Calumet Park, Illinois. if you are an American, you must understand the concept, you must accept this Olive-Harvey College, one of MOH Recipient SP-4 Harvey concept, and most importantly, you have to fight and defend this concept. This the City Colleges of Chicago is is about freedom, not free stuff. And that is why I am standing here. Brothers named after him and fellow recipient Milton L. Olive, III. (B.) and sisters, to be a real American, the very least you must do is learn English His Medal of Honor Citation Reads: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity and understand it well. In my humble opinion you cannot be a faithful patriotic in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. SP-4 Harvey citizen if you can’t speak the language of the country you live in. Take this distinguished himself as a fire team leader with Company B, during combat document of 46 pages - last I looked on the Internet, there wasn’t a Vietnamese operations. Ordered to secure a downed helicopter, his platoon established a translation of the US Constitution. It took me a long time to get to the point of defensive perimeter around the aircraft, but shortly thereafter a large enemy being able to converse and until this day, I still struggle to come up with the right force attacked the position from three sides. SP-4 Harvey and two members words. It’s not easy, but if it’s too easy, it’s not worth doing. Before I knew this of his squad were in a position directly in the path of the enemy onslaught, and 46 page document, I learned of the 500,000 Americans who fought for this little their position received the brunt of the fire from an enemy machine gun. In boy. I learned of the 58,000 names scribed on the black wall at the Vietnam short order, both of his companions were wounded, but SP-4 Harvey covered Memorial. You are my heroes. You are my founders. At this time, I would like Continued on pg. 8 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 6 12th CAV News 0001 Journal opened. with a “V” for Valor, with a second award for complet- Ken Howser, Jr. Hey Sailor, new in town? ing over 25 combat air assaults, the Vietnamese Cross of PO Box 234 Are you reading this col- Gallantry with Bronze Star, the Presidential Unit Cita- Walkersville, MD 21793-0234 umn first? You do know tion, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the (301) 898-7763 [email protected] all Division Troopers do, Badge among other awards. He was later inducted into www.12thCav.US right Vern? Those who the O.C.S. Hall of Fame at the Infantry School, Fort Facebook.Com/12thCavalryRegiment asked for a PDF version, Benning, Georgia. Among his many philanthropic works email me if you did not receive last issue. Sorry about that. I don’t always re- was a $1 million leadership gift for construction of the member who requested and who asked me to never email again. Science and Technology Center, Seton Hall University. 0134 Lorinda: Thank you for all the help and for being the go-to voice at He is survived by his wife, Dee; daughter Francesca; Headquarters. You were my sounding board, adviser, and anchor. It will not and son Justin, among others. CPT George Michael has forever changed. I miss you and wish you the best in retirement, and your 1134 Google “12th Cavalry Jamestown, Virginia’ for Ring C 2-12 CAV travels. an interactive photograph depicting the 12th Cavalry 0334 At the June reunion Trooper Bill Oaxaca became the latest recognized (come up from Georgia?) trooping through the parade grounds of the 1907 as a Distinguished Member of the Regiment. His citation, edited: “Then TEC-4 Jamestown Ter-Centennial Exposition. The image appears to be three mounted William R. Oaxaca served with the 12th Cavalry Regiment during World War II, Troops of the 12th Cavalry with sabers drawn. The one guidon I can determine and during combat operations on Luzon, Philippines with G Troop, 12th Cavalry is that of H Troop. Medics for the invasion of Japan. He was awarded the Asiatic Pacific Campaign 1234 1LT Raymond John Krupinski, B 1-12 Cavalry Regiment. “A boat launch Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal, complex in Shades Beach, Harborcreek Township, Pennsylvania has a new name, World War II Victory Medal, and the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan) among honoring a township native killed in action in Vietnam 30 April 1969. The cer- his other awards. He has been a member of the 1st Cavalry Division Association emony took place Friday, 2 August 2013, on what would have been Krupinski’s for some 65 years plus and a founding member of the l2th Cavalry Regiment As- 65th birthday. A plaque naming the site the Krupinski Launch Facility says the sociation. Bill served three terms on the Board of Directors of the 1st Cav Division launch was dedicated to “our hometown hero ... by his family, friends and the Association. He and others formed the 12th Cavalry Regiment association at citizens of Harborcreek Township.” Krupinski, a paratrooper, was serving in the Fort Knox, Kentucky. Bill Oaxaca became the first editor, writer, and publisher Binh Long Province, Vietnam, when he was killed. He received the Distinguished of the Association’s Crossed Sabers newsletter. His many tasks included writing Service Cross for his heroic actions, resulting in his death.” stories, recruiting members, collecting dues, and organizing reunions. (He was 1334 The 6th Cavalry Museum was surprised with the presentation of military also secretary and wrote the Association’s column for SABER). In sum he was memorabilia from Catoosa County, Georgia Chamber president Martha Eaker and the l2th Cavalry Regiment Association. Without his determined, professional, donated by Orian Harrod’s grandson Jim Harrod. Orian Harrod was a member and dedicated efforts to the Association, the organization would not have grown of Troop L, 12th Cavalry, while stationed at Fort Oglethorpe in the early 1900s. to the dynamic and relevant force it is today. Bill Oaxaca could easily be called Special thanks to Jim for donating his grandfather’s uniform jacket, hat, pictures ‘Mr. l2th Cavalry Association’.” and other artifacts to the museum. 0434 2-12 Battalion, reunited at Fort Hood after deployment to Afghanistan, The troop photo is dated 3-25-07. “I held a Battalion Ball on 18 September at the Bell County Expo Center. COL Al was thrilled to receive Jim Harrod’s Freeland, Vice President of the Regiment Association and a 2-12 platoon leader call about his grandfather’s things. in 1968-1969, was the guest speaker. We talked about the best place for 0534 Due to the exigencies of raising costs for 12th Cav Association publica- the collection to be displayed, and he tions, and to address other costs, it was determined dues must be raised. This was glad to learn of the 6th Cavalry was approved by the members present at the June business meeting. By now Museum and its mission to tell the you should have received notification of military history of the Army Post at this in the mail. Life memberships were Fort Oglethorpe,” Eaker said. Association Crossed Sabers newsletter, and 1434 SSG Claude R. ‘Mac’ Ma- cArthur who served with the 12th membership directory for a year. Multiple Uniform, hat, and picture of Trooper sustaining memberships may be paid in Cavalry from 1946-48 in C & Service Orian Harrod advance at $20 per year. Thanks for your Troop died 11 May 2013, in Spring attention to this membership change. Hill, Florida. Mac was a Past President of VFW Post 10209 and of the Florida 0634 DSC Trooper Ron Killingsworth, Chapter of the 1st Cavalry Division Association. He joined the Army in 1946, SABER Scribe for the HQ and Special after unsuccessfully attempting to join when he was 15. He became a Signal Troops, presents a poser. Does anyone Corp Operator, using the call sign of W4TAU, which he continued to use as a recognize this 12th Cavalry Trooper be- civilian ham radio operator. Mac worked a long career in appliance repair primar- ing awarded the DSC in Vietnam, April ily with GE, retiring in 1990. His survivors include his second wife Kathleen; of 1968 by GEN Westmoreland? Could daughters Eileen, Colleen, and Maureen; sons Terrence and Donald; and four this be Paul J. Rock of B 1-12 Cavalry? adult stepchildren. SGT from 12th Cav Apr 68 0734 MG Daniel William French, III, was awarded the and . His survivors include his wife passed to Fiddlers Green 11 August 2013 in Steilacoom, Washington. He gave Cindy; daughters Cheryl, Erica, and Krista; sons Justin, Jack Malone and Joshua 35 years of service to the Army including two combat Schofield among others. (Quoted.) < WyomingNews.Com> tours in the Republic of South Vietnam. In 1967 he 1734 A suggestion from a loyal reader. “In the October 2013 ‘Vietnam’ magazine was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and Silver starting on page 24, there’s an excellent article by Michael Christy who com- Star while commanding 1st Battalion (Airborne), 12th manded C 1-12 in 1970. The article describes Operation Crazy Horse (May-June Cavalry Regiment, for his personal bravery and inspired 1966) and is filled with the names of men...some of whom I only know of...and leadership while conducting combat operations in sup- others who are/were friends and dear to me. Initially involving B 2-8, several port of the 1st Cavalry Division. He also commanded other units were committed and supported. Some notable names mentioned the same battalion in 1968 during the Tet Offensive. were LTC Morry Brady (then the CO of 2-20 ARA and later the DIVARTY CO), He had a keen sparkling wit and an optimistic, cheerful Don Warren (CO of C/1-12), Otis Lynn (CO of 2-12, Rutland Beard (CO of 1- demeanor. He taught history and composition courses 12), and Levin Broughton (CO of 1-8). The story is an excellent recounting of for Pierce College for fifteen years until he retired at age an operation in which many Troopers displayed outstanding gallantry.” MG Daniel William among others. < TheSubTimes.Com> 1834 SGT Lester McClure, A company 2-12 First Air Cav, Vietnam 1968-1969 French III, 1-12 CAV 0934 COL Norman A. Moffett “has been a close friend passed away 26 July 2012. This is all the information we were provided! We of mine since we served together in the 7th Cavalry in 1957. Norm served two do not know the where or more specifics. I have sent three requests to Trooper tours in Vietnam, both with the Division. His first tour was with the 5th Cavalry Bill McClure via email but received no reply. Trooper McClure; please contact and his second tour as commander of the 1-12 Cavalry during the Cambodian me so we may learn more of Lester’s life and story, and hopefully do a fuller invasion. Norm is not well. He used to be active on the internet and we used memorial to his life. < Bill McClure> We bid heartfelt farewell to all our departed to swap a lot of emails. I understand he is in a nursing home and is being taken Troopers who ride to Fiddlers Green! care of by his son who lives nearby. I send Norm a card every few weeks, usu- 1934 See you in DC for Veterans Day? “Veterans of the 1st Cavalry Divi- ally something humorous with just a few words. Today I received a card from sion and the 1st Cavalry Division Association will gather in Washington, DC to him so it appears he is at least knowledgeable of my communications. In the honor the Veterans of our Armed Forces and renew old acquaintances. All First event any of your members remember him, they might want to send him a card Team Troopers and their families are welcome to visit our hospitality room and or note of encouragement. They can contact me at participate in the events that happen in and around the area. A block of rooms for his address. “ has been coordinated at the Crowne Plaza Washington National Airport Hotel 1034 CPT George Michael Ring, Summit, New Jersey, C 2-12 Cavalry died for the nights of Friday 8 November to Monday 11 November, 2013.” “The 7 June 2013. He was commissioned in February of 1967, and assigned as an National Capitol Region Chapter in conjunction with the 1CDA, will host the infantry platoon leader in the 1st Cavalry Division in Vietnam. He was later 5th Annual First Team Veterans Day Dinner on Monday evening 11 November made company commander during the Tet Offensive, later, an aide-de-camp for 2013 at the Crowne Plaza Washington National Airport Hotel. The speaker at BG Oscar Davis, and an aide to LTG John Tolson. During his Vietnam tour he this year’s dinner is scheduled to be BG Gary J. Volesky, commander of 2-5th was revered and respected by the men under his command. Highly decorated for Cavalry at Fort Hood and Iraq, 3rd Brigade Combat Team at Fort Hood and Iraq, his service, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, the and a Deputy Commanding General (Operations) of the First Team at Fort Hood Bronze Star with “V” for Valor, with a second award for service, the Air Medal and in Afghanistan.” <1CDA.Org> Continued on pg. 8 Page 7 saber SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 7th CAV News Robert J. Anderson It seems like cannot do justice! When you see Bill and Eva in Chicago, please stop them and 9030 Conservancy Dr. NE only yesterday thank them for their selfless sacrifice and service. GarryOwen! Ada, MI 49301-8822 that I was fin- The 7th Cavalry recently lost another of our great Vietnam Battalion Command- (616) 682-5446 ishing up our ers. William Dougald MacMillan, IV died on Friday, July 12, 2013 at his home [email protected] latest column in Fayetteville. Born January 25, 1926, he had a twin brother, Robert Thompson [email protected] and now Labor MacMillan, who predeceased him in 2009. Dougald served as an Infantry Officer www.US7thCavalry.Com Day has come in the for over 33 Years and retired in 1981 as a Colonel. He and gone, Halloween is fast approaching, and then Thanksgiving will be upon was drafted in 1945 and commissioned a 2LT through Officer Candidate School us. Time certainly does fly by. I achieved two life milestones during the month in 1946. He graduated from UNC in 1949, and entered their Law School that of August: first Julie and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary and then same year. Recalled to active duty when the Korean War began in 1950, he later on the 28th I reached the magical age of 65 years. So with this back drop I’ll received his Regular Army Commission in 1956. He served seven tours overseas, reach into the old saddlebags and draw out some e-mail stories that you have so two in South Vietnam. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the generously sent in. Silver Star with OLC, the Air Medal with V device and OLC, and the Bronze Star Ron “Shortround” Migut reports that the latest edition of the Federal Benefits while serving as the Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 1st Book is now online and can be accessed at: . Defense Superior Service Medal, the Republic Of Vietnam Cross Of Gallantry The 2nd annual Gathering of Eagles was again held in Rhinelander, Wisconsin with Palm, and the Senior Parachutist Badge. Dougald was one of the many hosted by Jim Hackbarth in late July. The weather was absolutely perfect which whose call sign was Red Baron Six and I was proud to call him – friend! Part of we attributed to Jim’s wife Opal. I was able to defend my winning toss in the this tribute was sent to us by our Web Manager – Jim Savage. sandbag event but we crowned a new overall champion in Bob Baldwin. Last Chuck Holtz, who served as a squad leader in A 1-7 in ’71, reports that Rick place finishers in each contest had to dig a hole to help bury Jerry (a housecat) and Joanne Hattan spent a three-day weekend with he and Dee during the dog who had passed several months prior. By the time all competition was over the days of June. We had a great visit and it saved us from reunion withdrawal. He hole represented a magnificent foxhole that I remembered from Vietnam when did the 15½ hour drive straight thru from New York and did it again Sunday CPT (COL, Ret.) Patrick J. Keane made us dig-in after a long day of searching morning. What a “Trooper”. What a friend! The guest quarters are most times for the elusive enemy in III Corps. without guest and ready, even if “any” of you are just passing thru and need a Marc Levy, a Silver Star recipient while serving as a Medic in D 1-7 from ’69- place for the night. ’70 reports. I met up with Jeff Motyka, RTO for 2-6 platoon in D 1-7 Cav ’70 in My old comrade LT John Talbott, along with several other warriors from A Salem, Massachusetts recently. We’d seen each other last on 23 April ’70 in the 1-7, are helping Bonnie Montana with information on her Social Security TOC on LZ Frances after he got hit during a mortar attack. I had just dragged in Application. It seems as though the government wants the name of the closest Jean Locklear, who was also hit, to be tended to by the Battalion Surgeon, CPT “town” where Jimmie was when he was killed in Cambodia in June of 1970. Theodore Pluscinski, III. Two guys from 2-6, Bob Tilton and Lorenzo Coleman, With the power of the A 1-7 web site (and the documents that many possess) the helped me carry Jeff down the TOC’s dirt steps. I heard someone moaning and needed information was gathered. Only the government could ask such inane looked up to see Jeff. We were the only guys in Delta (and possibly the Cav) questions. who wore dental retainers. I called out, “Jeff!” He said, “Doc!” and then fainted. Steve Place sends this report on Canadian fishing. Gary Woods and I ventured At the time I didn’t know how badly he was hit. He spent nine months at Walter up to Foleyet, Ontario, Canada the last week in July for a fly-in fishing trip. Reed and was in Salem, Massachusetts for three days. We caught up on many We had a great week together (incredible). There were nine of us on the trip, things and recalled our tours. One day he mentioned a guy named Lorenzo, who seven guys I know from my home town and Gary and I. It takes about 11 hours had helped him into the TOC after a mortar attack on Frances. With the D 1-7 to drive from here to the base lodge and under an hour to fly out to Rice Lake. Morning Reports and luck, I located Lorenzo Coleman. Lorenzo was fuzzy on Once we landed on the lake we taxied to the dock, unloaded our gear, food and details but glad to talk and looked forward to hearing from Jeff. We’d all been supplies, and set up our cabin for the week. The plane would return once during on Compton when it was mortared. Jeff and Lorenzo had the difficult task of the week with ice and anything else we might need, other than that, there’s no cleaning out the bunker where James Aalund was KIA during the mortar attack. contact with the world. Next order of business is to get in the boats and head out During the confusion he looked out a gun port at the worst possible time. When on the lake, no guide, maybe a map? I brought a compass and we got down to Jeff and Lorenzo were talking it helped him to recall that fateful night on the the fishing. I had told Gary the fishing was pretty good, as I had gone with the firebase including his bunker catching on fire, helping Jeff into the TOC, combat group the year before, but had no idea what this week would bring. The total assaulting into Cambodia and other events and grunts from his tour. Jeff spent fish count for the group was over 2,400 walleyes and some 490 northern pike! thirty years in the law enforcement division of the IRS. He’s been married 43 This reads like it was really a fun time, Steve. years, retired, and lives on a fifteen-acre spread in Tennessee. Lorenzo lives in C 1-7 had a reunion in North Carolina the weekend of September 7. A report Chicago and is doing well. I put him in touch with Odell Newton of 3-6 platoon. will follow in the next SABER. Odell returned to Vietnam about three years ago. For more interesting reading Phil and Suzanne Zook’s daughter Christine was married on September 14th in including some of Marc’s poetry go to his link: . “Hanoi Jane” Fonda recently told us veterans we need “to get a life,” amid some Ken Howser, Jr. the Secretary of the 12th Cavalry Association forwards this protests and calling for a boycott of her role as Nancy Reagan in the recently report. Bill Bocock recently went in for a pre-op consult with a physician’s as- released movie The Butler. To the younger generation of warriors, Ms. Fonda sistant prior to cataract surgery. Surprisingly, the PA had been a medic in the 1-7 went to Hanoi and was photographed while sitting on an anti-aircraft gun. She from September ’69 to September ’70. His name is Richard Bohnemann and he later claimed she was naive. Sorry to inform you but we do have a life and came back to the States after Vietnam service and was a medic at Walson Army won’t ever forget your actions. Protesting in the US is one thing but to go to the Hospital at Fort Dix before going to Physician Assistant School. Although our capitol of our enemy was way too much. Many thought she should have been time at Walson overlapped, we did not know each other there. You might en- tried for treason for this action but she managed to wiggle out of that as well. courage a little fraternal good will by letting the corresponding secretary for the The year was 1996, the car a rusty old Ford station wagon loaned to a Wakefield 1-7 know that one of theirs turned out successfully and met up years later with couple, John and Debbie Benedetto, by a friend of theirs named Chester. He’s a 2-12 trooper in far-off, exotic Phoenix. Semper Paratus! My thanks to both deceased now and so is the Ford. When John and Debbie began cleaning out the Ken for forwarding and to Bill for taking the time to make this report, which car, in the back, among the empty oil cans and busted jumper cables, they found is an excellent example of what makes the First Team the best Army Division. two small boxes containing four military medals: a Purple Heart, Bronze Star, GarryOwen to you both! Air Medal, and a Vietnam Service Medal. Three medals bore the inscription Mike Kovitch sends us this report and a request. LT Raymond Johnson, Jr. was “John F. Fitzgibbons.” No service affiliation. No rank. No clue as to how or my 3rd Platoon Leader when I was assigned to Alpha Company 2-7 in July ’66. why they had wound up in an old junker Ford, a generation after the Vietnam War I later became his RTO before being transferred to the CP to become Captain ended. “I felt bad, you knew they belonged to somebody,” says John Benedetto, Davison’s RTO and only learned of his passing from this website sometime in 64, sitting in his kitchen next to Debbie, 59, his wife of 27 years. “You don’t 1994. Recently, I posted a new photo and info album on the Alpha Company just throw those away.” They put the medals in the office desk, figuring they site including a couple of photos showing LT Johnson receiving the Silver Star would find the rightful owner, or his survivors, someday. That day would come sometime in 1967. I am hoping that you might have a family contact for LT 17 years later, in a selfless act of honoring a fallen soldier’s service that should Johnson and can send them a link to the photo album showing him receiving that make this July Fourth holiday one that the Benedetto and Fitzgibbons families award. He was a fine officer, a great leader, and just a good guy. It was with a will long remember. “Bringing John home” was Debbie’s phrase for returning big lump in my throat that I learned of his passing. I had always hoped to again the medals and it required persistence and luck. Some might even view it as shake his hand some day after Vietnam. You can give them my email address, if going above and beyond the call of duty. From the moment they found the you like. GarryOwen! If anyone knows the whereabouts of Lieutenant Johnson’s medals, the Benedettos were intrigued by the mystery surrounding them. But relatives, Mike can be reached at . they felt stymied by the search process, and wary about what the outcome might William A. Richardson, President Emeritus of our 7th Cavalry Association sends be. The Benedettos of Wakefield wrapped the medals in a miniature American the following. I just read the 7th Cavalry article in the latest SABER and I want flag and mailed them to a cousin. They tried the local phone book at first, but to thank you for your kind words about Eva and me. I am honored to be chosen there were no Fitzgibbons listed. Where else to look? It was a big country, and as President Emeritus of the 7th Cavalry Association. I also want to thank you tools like Internet search engines were years away. Busy lives took over but for all that you have done to keep our Association in order, in addition to your from time to time, but the Benedettos would take the medals out and wonder… other duties as scribe and most of all Secretary and Treasurer. You have done an who was John F. Fitzgibbons? What had he done to earn them? You didn’t outstanding job and have really set the bar high for anyone who follows. I surely serve in Vietnam and earn a Bronze Star and Purple Heart for no good reason, hope that some capable troopers will step forward to take the jobs as President and John Benedetto knew. His own father had been a Marine who had fought most importantly the duties of Secretary/Treasurer. It is going to be hard to find at Guadalcanal. Still, he says, they didn’t know the back story, and whether someone to take our place. Bill, it has been my privilege and honor to serve with anyone wanted the medals back. “Did the family disown him because he went you, Jim Brigham, Rolando Salazar, John Guillory, Phil Zook, and Bob Arbasetti to Vietnam?” he says, recalling how polarizing that war was, how it divided the during these last 14+ years as we tried (and succeeded) in building a stronger and country and even families. “You just don’t know.” A decade passed and then, more viable 7th Cavalry Association. Just to remind every one of our readers seven more years. The medals were, if not forgotten, at least out of mind that it was Troopers like Bill Richardson, Horse Soldiers in the Finest Tradition, Then, one morning this May, John and Debbie were having coffee in the offices who fought in the Pacific during World War II that had the foresight to form this of S. Benedetto & Sons, the family’s leasing business. For whatever reason and great Division Association. We owe a debt of gratitude to them that mere words Continued on pg. 8 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 8

8th CAV News similar experience of finding that MAJ Barney Darby, with whom I had served in Thomas J. DeYoung Vietnam and with whom I spent a wonderful R&R in Bankok, had passed on. I 3543 Brook Trails SE always wondered what had happened to him after he was wounded and evacuated Grand Rapids, MI 49508-2683 (616) 719-0223 and only found out about his post Army service after doing some research and [email protected] finding his obituary. How I now wish I could have located him before he died. www.8Cavalry.Org He had a powerful influence on me back then and I wanted to let him know it. I guess this all goes to reinforce how important it is for our young veterans to stay Hi again, in touch with each other after leaving their units, and for us older vets to attend It is rather hard to believe that summer is nearing its end; yesterday’s celebra- some of the many reunions held each year. tion of Labor Day marked the “official end” of the season as children return to In that vein, don’t forget the annual “Kentucky Kampout”: The Kentucky re- school and we move to a more focused life-style. It has been a rather odd season union will be held October 16th through October 20th, 2013. It will be at fishtail in that for a week or two it was hotter here in Michigan than at my little place in lodge in Buchanan, Tennessee. For more info Call Smiley at 770 254 0705, or Florida with temperatures reversed from the norm. And that was the case for a e-mail . few days last week when I paid a short visit to the Sunshine State. I wanted to Tom Kjos has been researching the 1967 Battle of Tam Quan for some time insure that the place will be ready for the winter migration of us “Snow Birds” in now, and has interviewed many of the participants. He is writing a history rather November. It’s a mild 65 degree Michigan morning here while Ruskin is already than a memoir, and so finds it critical to nail down every detail. He needs some at 85 degrees. The hot, very humid, rainy 90 degree days in tropical Florida last help. His letter follows: week reminded me of days gone by in RVN. “I’m continuing my research on the December, 1967 Battle of Tam Quan, During and need information on contacts involving Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th this beau- Cavalry. tiful sum- From the 2-8 Cavalry S2 Enemy Activity Report, an entry on 11 December mer there – No. 14 – reads: h a s n o t 1945 hrs. BS920038 – While moving to ambush Loc. encountered an est. been much NVA Sqd. Engaged w/ SA and grenades. Result 1 US KIA 2NVA KIA, [at Loc. in the way 928034]<—(this part later lined through). of corre- A bit further on, this entry – No. 18, the last entry of December 11 – occurs: spondence 2245 hrs. BS926038 – while moving to alternate ambush pos. encountered est. c o m i n g NVA squad, exchanged SA fire. Result 1US KIA, 2 NVA KIA, 2 addl. NVA KIA this way. fd 12 Dec., 1 AK 47 SN 9467645, maps, docs, 5 grenades, 30 Rds. SA, medical I’ve re- bag, ent. Tool. ceived just Somewhat different, the 1st Brigade After Action Report, written in Janu- a few notes G Co 8th Cav 1951 ary 2008: “Ambush elements of D 2-8 Cav located at BS 926046 had contact from mem- with an unknown sized enemy force at 2215 hour and 2245 hours. The enemy bers. I am pleased to see the growing number of us from wars past and present was moving from north to south attempting to escape when contact was made who are reconnecting with those with whom they have served. I note as well with the ambush elements.” the importance of touching the lives of people who mourn the passing of “old There are clearly discrepancies between the S2’s entries and the Brigade’s soldiers.” As the veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam are passing on in report. I’d like to clean that up, but more important is to get the story of that increasing numbers, their children often do not know the stories of their wartime (those) patrol(s) from a participant, if not of the ambush patrols themselves, then service and remain unaware of their sacrifice; veterans are too often reticent to from a member of Delta company at that time that remembers the incident. share these memories of events long past themselves. Their survivors are com- Allan Eugene Follett, of Independence, Missouri, and John Paul Paulson, Jr., of forted when those with whom they served write letters of condolence sharing Neenah, Wisconsin were both members of D Company and killed in action that photos and memories of those times spent far from home in war-torn lands. day. I don’t know in which contact, or for that matter, what happened that night. These notes remind me of what I learned as a child – two of the seven Spiritual Any telling of the story of the Battle of Tam Quan needs to include that of the Works of Mercy are to “Comfort the afflicted” Delta the night of 11 December. I found no one at the Angry Skipper reunion in and to “Pray for the living and the dead.” I’ve San Diego who was with the company at that time. Anyone who can help now, received a couple of letters in this vein but please contact me at: or (623) 352-2583. Thanks.” am restrained from sharing with you the very I know that many of you were there and Tom would be grateful if you would personal content of them, but I can report that contact him by email or telephone and share any details of this battle that would they are very much appreciated. John Krull, be of help to him in his writing. now 81 years old, wrote of such an experi- I found a lot of information on the Regiment while doing research for this col- ence of sharing such photos and memories of umn. There are several web sites that purport to offer detailed histories. While his Platoon leader, LT Charles Carlton, from I cannot attest to the accuracy of the research (it must be true – I read it on the First Platoon, George Company, 8th Cavalry internet), many of these sites provide very interesting details on the Regiment Regiment in Korea, 1951 with LT Carlton’s going back to its establishment. There are also many articles on various battles son. It took John around ten years to locate fought in various wars, many with information unknown to those of us involved LT Carlton, but found only an obituary and at the time. Whenever I have a slow day with an hour or two to spare, I simply ultimately a link to his son. John says, “I with use a search engine to explore these things. Whether you use Bing, Google, ASK, Inchon last day - LT Carlton that I would have been smart enough to con- or one of the many search engines available, you won’t be disappointed in the and Krull nect with people before it got too late.” I had a time you spent reading on the history we all share. 12th CAV News 7th CAV News Continued from pg. 6 Continued from pg. 7 2034 The Colonel asked me to mention this: National Suicide Prevention Re- hey are still not sure why, John pulled out the medals that morning and looked sources: Hotline and Online Chat. VA has established national suicide preven- them over. “Oh my God,” said Debbie, “you still have those.” She realized the tion resources to ensure veterans in emotional crisis have free, around-the-clock significance of the moment: In the years since the medals had been tucked away, access to trained counselors. When dialing 1-800-273-TALK (8255), veterans, new search tools had come along, and with them the real possibility of finding a active military, and their families are prompted, during the automated greeting, veteran named John F. Fitzgibbons. This excerpt was sent to me by Bob Skole to press “1” to be connected to a veterans suicide prevention hotline specialist who was a T-5 serving in the 8th Cav in Japan. Unfortunately space dictated located in the VA call center in New York. You can also connect with trained VA that I just whet your appetite and please stay tuned for “the rest of the story” in counselors on the Internet. the next column. GarryOwen and BOO! From Michigan. 2134 If you happen to have a love of Internet radio, I have a couple of recom- 5th CAV News mendations for your free listening pleasure. ‘‘Boot Liquor,’ Americana roots Continued from pg. 5 music (or what they used to call Country Western) at its core, stuff that’s both this loss by increasing his deliberate rifle fire at the foe. The enemy machine musically and lyrically unique. Consider it a musical intervention for your be- gun seemed to concentrate on him and the bullets struck the ground all around draggled soul. his position. One round hit and armed a grenade attached to his belt. Quickly, he tried to remove the grenade but was unsuccessful. Realizing the danger to 2234 Cinemix Film Music Station is soundtracks only. “Cinemix does exactly his comrades if he remained and despite the hail of enemy fire, he jumped to what its name suggests--it finds the best and most unique soundtracks... and then his feet, shouted a challenge at the enemy, and raced toward the deadly machine mixes them all up in a blender. Variety is definitely the name of the game, and gun. He nearly reached the enemy position when the grenade on his belt given the depth of Cinemix’s musical library, chances are a few of their tracks exploded, mortally wounding SP-4 Harvey, and stunning the enemy machine will leave you pleasantly surprised.” gun crew. His final act caused a pause in the enemy fire and the wounded 2359 “I can win an argument on any topic, against any opponent. People know men were moved from the danger area. SP-4 Harvey’s dedication to duty, high this, and steer clear of me at parties. Often, as a sign of their great respect, they sense of responsibility, and heroic actions inspired the others in his platoon to don’t even invite me.” ~ Dave Barry. Write if you get work! decisively beat back the enemy attack. His acts are in keeping with the highest Journal closed. traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.” Sometimes, it’s tough to end the 5th Cav SABER Column. So I thought I OTHER REUNIONS would end with the first stanza of my favorite Army Hymn, “Day is Done.” The 15th MED Association, 2-6 April 2014. Renaissance Orlando Airport Hotel, music score is known as ‘Taps’. Orlando, FL. Info at . Contact Leo Williams, < [email protected]>. From the lakes, From the hills, From the sky Aerial Rocket Artillery Association, 18-22 June 2014. Stone Castle Hotel and All is well, Safely rest, God is near Conference Center, Branson, MO. Info at . If you served with, know, knew or have information about any of the following, 5-7th Cavalry Association, 14-19 July 2014. University Plaza Hotel, Spring- please communicate with the contact listed. field, MO. Info at . LEE, CPL Wong Suey, F Co., 2-7th CAV, 1951. Contact Tony Day, , to assist with an award submission. Page 9 saber SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013

9th CAV News G r e e t i n g s f r o m Huey with ten souls on board (four crewmembers and two passengers, one a Michael W. Bond Southwest Virginia. Marine and the other from HHT, plus four unidentified passengers from the 3014 Northridge Rd. We just returned from 101st Airborne Division) took off from Phu Bai airfield on a logistics mission Hardy, VA 24101 our Apache Troop Gath- to Camp Evans. About three to five miles southeast of Camp Evans, at approxi- [email protected] ering in Myrtle Beach, mately 1830 hours, the helicopter was hit by enemy fire and forced to land. All (540) 815-5004 South Carolina where ten persons on board exited the aircraft uninjured and split into two groups in an we had a great reunion. attempt to escape to friendly lines. The four 101st Airborne personnel and 1LT Before we get to the reunion let me share a few pieces of correspondence I Robert Peda from A Troop walked into Camp Evans at 2000 hours. It was later received via snail mail. The first is from Ron Strub who sent along some in- learned that the local VC militia attacked the soldiers who remained with the formation, along with a picture of Maggie the Mule that went to Vietnam with helicopter. After a brisk exchange of fire, the US soldiers withdrew. As they did the 1st Cavalry Division in 1965. If you’d like a photo of Maggie, email Ron at so, two Apache Troopers were killed. The remaining three soldiers established . His mailing address is 601 N. Kirby St., SPC 415, a defensive position in the village cemetery but eventually they too were killed. Hemet, CA 92545. From my research on the internet it appears that Maggie had The villagers buried the two killed at the helicopter in a single grave more or less an untimely end shortly after arriving in country. where they fell, but the other three were removed from the cemetery and buried The next letter came from Jesse Patton asking if anyone had any information in separate locations nearby. When the first party walked into Camp Evans, an on CWO Joe Salomone, and any information on him before the Ia Drang Valley intensive search and rescue operation was conducted to locate the rest of the battle. Please send along any information to me and I’ll forward it on to Jesse flight crew and passengers, but it produced no results. On 28 March, elements of Patton. If you’d like you can contact him directly at (631) 669-2598, or write to the 1st Cavalry Division recovered two bodies from a shallow grave. Although him at 730 Railroad Ave, Apt A8, West Babylon, NY 11704. search efforts continued for the other three men in and around the location where We had several Apache Troopers that couldn’t make the reunion due to illness the two bodies were found, as well as between Camp Evans and the crash site, and I’m sure they would appreciate your thoughts and prayers. Those recovering they were not found. In early 1975, personnel from the Joint Casualty Resolu- from illness are John Jewell, Pat Frank, Jerry Cogdill, Ken Vigneux aka Schwartz, tion Center visited the site, and although they recovered material that positively and Ingrid Tyre. Also our good friend and comrade, Rick Rideout, had a terrible identified the crash site, they did not locate the other three men. In 1997, a joint travel experience and didn’t make it. US-Vietnamese team again visited the area and this time the villagers cooperated. We had a great evening of fellowship on Friday night and dinner at the hotel. Three former VC who participated in the 1968 fight still lived in the village and On Saturday we had a terrific presentation from COL Pete Booth and the early all three gave much the same story about how the five Troopers who remained days of armed helicopters and how they came into being. COL Booth commanded with the downed helicopter had died. The area where the three men who died in the 1-9 Cav from 1969 until early 1970. He and his lovely wife Sue are a treasure the cemetery were buried had been repeatedly disturbed over the years through and a great source of information and institutional memory. cultivation and the digging of irrigation ditches. As a result of time and changes, On Saturday eve- the three militiamen – two of whom had participated in the burials – could not ning, CO COL Gordon locate the graves. Excavations in the areas where they were thought to be found Stone and his beautiful no remains, personal equipment, or anything that could be associated with the wife, Sophia, hosted Apache Troop pilot, the Marine passenger, or the passenger from HHT, 1-9 Cav. us at their home in The surviving pilot, 1LT Peda, was killed in action along with his observer less Surfside Beach pro- than a month later. viding us with plenty PFC Larry Jay Moore of Exeter, California, was the parts specialist in the of great food and cold Apache Troop maintenance section and occupied one of the gun wells in the libations (let’s just say Huey. He was reported missing on 23 March 1968. His remains were recovered we exceeded the filed from the shallow grave in the cemetery on 28 March and identified on 31 March, ration of two beers per changing his status from Missing in Action to Killed in Action. He was 19 and soldier). It was a great left his wife, Marilyn Moore. Front row L-R: Gordon Stone, Pete Booth, George Iler, evening and COL SFC Eugene Gubbins of Albion, Illinois, was the Apache Troop Maintenance Jim Desmond, Terry Stickradt, Larry Miyamura, and Joel Booth presented me NCO and performed duties as crew chief on the flight. His remains were recovered McGinnis. Back row L-R: Bill Dunavant, Bob Phipps, with a signed poster along with those of PFC Moore from the shallow grave in the cemetery. He was Mike Bond, Will Baker, Ed Ryan and Matt Lawless. that I will proudly 37 years old and left his wife, Wally M. Gubbins, two sons, and two daughters. display in my “Cav- CW2 Jimmy Lee Watson of Lucama, North Carolina, was the Apache Troop alry Corner” behind our bar, and COL Stone presented each of us with a special Maintenance Officer and pilot of the aircraft. He was reported MIA on 23 March medallion to commemorate the gathering. He also presented my wife, RoJane 1968 and a presumptive finding of death was issued on 28 January 1976. He Chandler-Bond with an Apache Troop guidon that everyone signed to acknowl- was 29 at the time of his death, and he left a wife and a child. His remains have edge all the work she put in organizing our reunion. not been recovered. On Sunday, we had our Memorial service and read off the names of those we lost Well, that will do it for this issue. Let me encourage all of you to send along during our tour of duty and those that have passed away since we served overseas. any stories that you have collected about your time in the 1-9 CAV, as well as any Special thanks to Jim Kurtz for researching and sending along the database that questions or request for information. You can reach me via the contact informa- lists the names of all former Apache Troopers that are on “the Wall” and perished tion at the beginning of the column. Like the Buffalo Soldiers that we trace our in Vietnam. One particular story stood out and I have included it here. linage to, we are a vanishing breed, so take any available opportunity to gather A “milk run” on 13 March 1968 gave Apache Troop the first of its MIAs. A with fellow troopers at reunions in the future. Division Doings is similar to Skype) allowed behavioral health access to forward operating and Continued from pg. 3 combined operating bases in the region that didn’t have the personnel and clinics Air Cav Mental Health Specialist Helps Troops, Combats Stigma by SGT available to provide adequate care.” Christopher A. Calvert, 1st ACT PAO, 1st Cav. Div. After Buckwalter and fellow colleagues implemented the tele-behavioral health FORT HOOD, Texas –When reaching out for help with a mental illness, there system, similar systems were placed throughout RC-North to make up for the are many questions Soldiers often ask themselves. Is this going to impact my lack of facilities in the region at that time. career? Am I going to be labeled by my peers and chain of command? How can Upon redeployment, Buckwalter found himself once again playing a key role someone I don’t even know help me? in the behavioral health field as he was informed his military occupational spe- For SPC Jack Buckwalter, a Stewartsville, New Jersey native and mental health cialty was being added to 1ACB’s modified table of organization and equipment; specialist with HHC, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, a first for the aviation unit. 1st Cavalry Division, easing troops’ minds has “I was told I was the first organic behavioral health specialist in an aviation become his daily mission. unit,” said Buckwalter. “Whereas in the past units would augment themselves “The Army has come a very long way in with mental health specialists from other units, now we had an official slot for a the battle against stigma, but it’s still very mental health specialist on our MTOE.” prevalent,” Buckwalter said. “Soldiers are Now a seasoned mental health specialist with a combat deployment under his always going to have second thoughts about belt, Buckwalter assists Soldiers with their mental health concerns not only at seeking behavioral health. It’s my job to make TMC 12, but throughout formations in the brigade by performing walkabouts sure their worries are rested and ensure they to battle stigma. SPC Buckwalter conducts a be- receive the care they need and deserve.” Walkabouts are a method commonly used by mental health specialists to inter- haviorial health assessment at Now working at Troop Medical Clinic 12 act with Soldiers on an informal basis. They facilitate a relaxed opportunity for TMC 12. on Hood Army Airfield here, the soft-spoken behavioral health members to chat with troops in order to dictate the warfighter’s and reserved Buckwalter began his journey into the medical field shortly after wellbeing and potential need for care. graduating in 2008 from Warren County Technical School, NJ. During his more than 150 walkabouts since returning stateside, Buckwalter has Upon graduating, “Buck,” as he is often referred to by fellow members of his joined Soldiers throughout the ranks of Air Cav in casual conversation to ensure unit, attended college at Raritan Valley Community College for a year, where he their safety and welfare without coming across as intrusive. tested the waters, trying to find what career he wanted to pursue. “The mission for walkabouts is preventative care,” Buckwalter said. “Walk- After paying out of pocket for a year’s schooling, Buckwalter began running abouts give me a chance to chill with Soldiers and discuss what’s all going on in short on funds and it became apparent he would have to do something quickly their lives if they feel like doing so. If they require help, it gives me the chance if he wanted to continue his education. to come to them and provide them with several relaxation tips, or to point them “I was running out of money, so I initiated contact with a recruiter and I found in the right direction if I’m unable to assist.” myself in basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri shortly after,” Buckwal- SSG George Watlington, a Fayetteville, North Carolina native with HHC, ter said. “The next thing I know, I was at Fort Hood for only 23 days, including 1ACB, has worked side-by-side with “Buck” during the last several months and in-processing, and was then deployed to Afghanistan with 1ACB.” said he is impressed by Buckwalter’s motivation and commitment to improve During his deployment to Camp Marmal, Afghanistan, Buckwalter admitted every day. he was initially uneasy about deploying so quickly, but soon went on to make an “He’s the first line of defense at TMC 12,” Watlington said. “When Soldiers impact for not only his brigade, but the entire Regional Command North. enter the clinic with mental health concerns, they see Buckwalter first most of “I ended up playing an instrumental part in establishing the first tele-behavioral the time and receive their triage or biopsychosocial interview from him. He his health system in RC-North,” Buckwalter said. “By doing so, the system (which Continued on pg. 10 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 10 30th FA News “HARD CHARGERS” It has been a very and staff as everyone was kind and nice. Daniel P. Gillotti busy summer as of We both will highly recommend the VA and 4204 Berkeley Dr. 8-25-13. I’m in my UW. Ron’s doctor is the only thoracic doctor Sheffield Village, OH 44054 (440) 934-1750 30th month serv- for both hospitals! What a great guy, and [email protected] ing with a group of young and Irish!” Please keep Ron in your www.HardChargers.Com dedicated mostly thoughts and pray for a speedy recovery, Vietnam Vets to es- Tom & Brenda Pullen. We also ask that tablish Transitional Housing for Homeless Veterans in Lorain County, Ohio. The you keep Hard Chargers Joe Brown, Jerry latest estimates released by the VA states there are 62,000 homeless veterans on Peck, Doc Ellington, and Woody Alexander the streets in the USA every night. We have finally purchased a building and on your prayer list. we are in the process of renovating the second floor in order to house and feed Ellington and Peck in Branson, Condolences: We received notification 30 veterans. We were assisted by a $474,000 grant from the VA that will cover MO from SGT Gary Dunnagan [A-1-30th FA ’69- 65% of the total cost of the project. The other 35% must come from the local ’70] on Friday 8-23-13, that Hard Charger, community in the form of grants, donations, and sweat equity. We expect to have CPT (R) Norman E. Johnson lost his battle with cancer [12/11/37 ~ 8/23/13]. the renovations completed by the end of October 2013. Each vet we admit to the Norm was able to visit with us at our 2013 Reunion in Fort Collins, Colorado, and program will undergo a 12 week addiction remission program under the care of we’re glad he could make it one more time. Norm joined the US Army in January qualified therapists. Case Managers will work with each veteran to establish an ’55 and was trained as an Airborne Infantryman. He later served in Germany with Individual Development Plan (IDP) to be used as their roadmap on their path towards the 10th Infantry Division, and returned to an assignment with the 82nd Airborne self-sufficiency and re-entry back into the mainstream working population. We Division at Fortt Bragg, North Carolina in May ’59. In 1961, Norm applied for will be working closely with Special Forces Qualification School and in Jan ‘62 he started his training with C the Lorain County Joint Voca- Company, 5th Special Forces Group (SFGA) at Fort Bragg. By November ’64, tional School, Lorain County he was deployed to Vietnam with Detachment Community College, and our A-104, 5th SFGA and completed his first tour University Partners. We’ll in Novenber ’65. He returned to Fort Bragg and also work throughout the served with B Company, 7th SFGA from 11/65 community to find internships until 06/67. SSG Johnson then attended Field and apprenticeships to place Artillery OCS at Ft Sill, Oklahoma, where he our veterans into. We realize graduated as a Distinguished Military Graduate the shortage of job opportuni- in December ’67. He was then transferred to ties in the area and a lack of Germany, where he served with the 5th Battalion, adequate public transporta- 81st FA (ABN), 8th Infantry Division from 01/68 tion system is working against Valor Home Lorain County Front to 08/69. CPT Johnson then deployed to Vietnam us, but we are not about to give and was assigned to HHB-1-30th FA. He then up. It is up to us as veterans took command of A-1-30th FA in January ’70, and to do everything we can to later rebuilt the three-Gun Platoon that suffered help our brothers in their time 16 WIAs during the Battle of LZ Illingworth on of need. “Give a man a fish 1 April ’70. He then successfully guided A-1- SSG Norman E. Johnson 7th to eat and his hunger will 30th FA through the Cambodian Incursion, and SF, 1965 subside for a day. But teach turned command over in September ’70. Norm a man to fish and he will be eventually retired at Fort Sill, Oklahoma in July gainfully employed for a life- ’75. Norm was a Life Member of the 30th FA time.” In the meantime we Regiment Association and his Awards and Decora- will continue our fundraising tions included the BSM w/OLC, MSM w/OLC, AM {5th Award}, ARCOM w/OLC, the Combat efforts. No one is forgotten ~ Valor Home Lorain County West Side and no one is left behind. Infantry Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, and Disabled Hard Charger List: I received the following email on 8-23-13; Ron Scuba Divers Badge. A Memorial Service was Simpson {B-1-30th FA, 68-69} has asked us to let you all know what has been held on 9/5/2013 at the Galbreath- Pickard Fu- going on in his life this past week. Ron had a mass removed from his left lung neral Home in Weatherford, Texas. Please mail on 8-19-13 at the VA in Madison, Wisconsin. This mass was malignant and a your condolences to Ann Johnson, 2204 Caroline biopsy of the lymphoid was taken with results in today which came back nega- Drive, Weatherford, TX 76087. We ask you to tive. The doctor will continue to watch this area. Ron has a post-op check-up please pray for the soul of Hard Charger Norman on 9-3-13, and he will have more information after seeing the doctor. His wife, E. Johnson, and keep Ann and her family in your prayers as well. This is Hard Charger 9G ~ End CPT (R) Norman E Johnson Debby posted on face book that: “Ron is home resting in the recliner, it’s been 2013 a long day. He did exceptionally well for an older gent! What a great hospital of Mission-Out! Division Doings Even though the fight was different than Iraq and Afghanistan, Cuviello said Continued from pg. 9 parallels can be drawn and lessons learned from Nadal’s experiences in the always expanding on his (military occupational specialty), and he’s entering the Battle of Ia Drang. Warrior Leader Course next week. He’s in the molding process of becoming a “It helps you develop as an officer or an NCO, as a junior leader, to get that great noncommissioned officer.” experience … and actually translate that to your training and down to your At the end of the day, Buckwalter said he’s learned from each and every mem- Soldiers,” Cuviello said. ber of his team, and seeing a Soldier who was battling mental issues respond With only five months on the job and no combat experience, 2LT Eric Hurley, successfully to his team’s treatment makes his job worth waking up for every a scout platoon leader and Omaha, Nebraska, native, assigned to 4th Squadron, morning. 3rd Cavalry Regiment, said his company commander encouraged him to attend “What’s really cool is when a Soldier completes treatment,” Buckwalter the event. said. Hurley wanted to know what he was doing right and understand things to “They might come in one day droopy and leave smiling when they walk out of improve on to gain the trust of his Soldiers. the door after receiving the help they needed. That’s when I get a sense of job “(The seminar) covered perfectly how to gain trust with your Soldiers and satisfaction and know what I do truly has an impact.” how to gain the leadership structure you need to build with your Soldiers to be Battle Of Ia Drang, Garryowen Veteran Speaks at Seminar by SSG John an effective leader,” Hurley said. “I’ve learned from a guy (who has) done it. I Couffer, 1BCT, Public Affairs, 1st Cav. Div. haven’t just learned from a guy who studied it at a school. I haven’t just learned FORT HOOD, Texas – In the words of Sir Winston it from a guy who read a book. I learned from a guy who was there, who did it, Churchill, “Those who fail to learn from history are and successfully did it.” doomed to repeat it.” Hurley said what he learned will help him develop as a leader and better In an effort to draw from experience, noncommissioned understand the importance of being able to complete those very tasks he expects officers and officers of 1st Squadron, 7th “Garryowen” his Soldiers to perform. Cavalry Regiment, 1st “Ironhorse” Brigade Combat “It’s a perfect example of what I want to be and how I should be in order to Team, 1st Cavalry Division, seized the opportunity successfully lead my troops,” said Hurley. to listen to one Vietnam veteran’s take on small unit It has been 42 years since Nadal’s last visit to Fort Hood. He is now the program leadership in combat at Howze Theater. director of the Wounded Warrior Mentors at Fort Eustis, Virginia. Nadal said it Tony Nadal speaks to COL (Ret) Ramon “Tony” Nadal, a Williamsburg, is always good to talk to 1st Cavalry Soldiers. 1-7 CAV soldiers. Virginia, native and former commander of Garryowen’s, “I love it,” Nadal said. “I feel a great deal of bond with these Soldiers.” then Company A, during the Battle of Ia Drang in Nadal may be from a different era, but he looks at today’s Soldiers as carrying Vietnam, November 14 to 18, 1965, gave a seminar on Small Unit Leadership the torch for the future. in Combat here September 6. “I hope as a result, this will cause (leaders) to think about their function Wayne, New Jersey, native, MAJ Matthew Cuviello, the executive officer for and their responsibility as a leader particularly if they have to take troops into Garryowen, met Nadal at the 47th reunion of the Battle of Ia Drang in Branson, combat,” Nadal said. Missouri., in May of this year, when Nadal said he would like to talk to 1st 1-12th CAV Executes Gunnery by SGT Kimberly Browne, 3rd BCT, Public Cavalry Soldiers about leadership. Affairs, 1st Cav. Div. “When you get an opportunity to host a legend in the squadron, you jump on FORT HOOD, Texas – Every year, soldiers are required to qualify on different that opportunity,” Cuviello said. weapons systems: pistols, rifles and grenade launchers are just a few. Having Soldiers listen to not only a veteran, but a former company commander However, individual tank crew qualifications are also a standard. whose decisions played a pivotal role in saving lives during the Battle of Ia To ensure this qualification is executed, soldiers from Company D, 1st Battalion, Drang, is invaluable, Cuviello said. Continued on pg. 11 Page 11 saber SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 27th ORD/MNT/MSB/BSB News Summer has been good in my neck traditions alive. We look forward to meeting you. Ed Jones of the woods. Yes, we had a little too I mentioned emails above. I have a request from 38 Sedgwick Rd much heat for a time, then a little too Nelson that those of you who have changed your Oswego, IL 60543-8907 email address over the last few years or so and per- (630) 554-9245 much rain, then not enough rain, but [email protected] what the heck, that’s summer in Illinois. haps forgot to notify us, please contact us with your I hope all of our friends are enjoying new information. He is sending out the “mass” emails and is getting quite a few returned unde- themselves wherever you lay your head at night. liverable. One more excuse for you to contact us! Lorinda Davison is retired. WOW!! I would like to thank Lorinda for all of her I recently heard from Bill Hille (1968-69) and years with the 1st Cavalry Division Association. She has been most helpful to me Dave Nicolet (1967-68). They were able to hook with any matter needing attention as it related to the Association. She has that up again for the first time in 46 years when Bill warm and friendly demeanor at all times and is one of the few who projects her dropped “Nic” off at the Phu Bai 1st Cav Heli-pad great smile even over the telephone lines. Lorinda will be sorely missed but I know to begin his long awaited return home. The picture Dennis will get the right person in to continue the tradition. Enjoy your retirement, shows two great friends at Dave’s ranch in Califor- Lorinda, and I know we’ll be seeing you at events and I look forward to that. nia. So, you two, when are you going to “bless us” with your attendance at a reunion? The 65th 1st Cavalry Division Reunion is history. Not as many attended as I also heard from Fred Vath, (1965-66). He wanted to express his sorrow in had in the past but those there made sure that a good time was had by all. learning of Jean Herr’s death. Fred is a recently The 27th had several attendees, including C. Wayne Barrett, Jim Donahue, located 27th alum but has made up for lost time Jerry Eller, John Firth, Gail Porter, Ken Sorenson, Erik Stoeckle and Joe in being involved with our functions, stories, Viggiano. If any of you have photos please send them to me so I can use and pictures. Last November Fred came to them in upcoming columns. Be sure to ID those in the pictures as there is a the DC reunion before returning to his New possibility that one’s appearance from back in the day may have changed! Jersey home to inspect the damage of Hurri- We have a couple more reunions coming up. Anyone with whom we have cane Sandy. Good, strong 27th indoctrination! email, you should have received information about the Veterans Day and 5th An- I recently received some pictures from Randy nual Veterans Day Dinner in Washington, DC. Registration for the dinner should Carrico (1968-69). Picture two is Randy with his have been made by 21 October. Once again the event is being held at the Crowne pet at the EM HQ barracks in Phu Bai. Picture Plaza Washington National Airport Hotel in Arlington, Virginia. We have heard 3 is a new bunker being constructed at the bat- from several but would like to hear from more, either coming or not able to this talion headquarters offices in Bien Hoa. What time. For more information, go to the Association web page . a difference a location makes! I’m soliciting My local chapter of the Association, the Sheridan’s Cavalry Chapter, will be feedback on some of the people constructing hosting the 66th Annual Reunion 9 - 13 July 2014. The event is taking place in this bunker. Several are battalion headquarters the near west suburb of Chicago, Oakbrook Hills. The venue is super! Lendy personnel but most are newbies to the battalion and I have been talking about hosting a 27th open house at our nearby lake home that CSM Rainey had under in Lowell, Indiana. Tentatively we are thinking about having this on Friday, his control until they were 7/11/2013. We have plenty of available transportation that can move guests from permanently assigned. One Oakbrook Hills and back for those who may need it. We have plenty of room for hint, yours truly is on the rain or shine weather and we believe that this would be a great event for all former right side, T-shirt, standing members. This may interfere with the Association’s morning and/or afternoon behind others. Only thing I options, so keep that in mind. Please let me know your thoughts on this idea. can figure is I must have just While on the subject of reunions, I would like to reach out to some of our more completed my shift and was recent soldiers. It has been over twenty years since Desert Shield and Desert Storm taking well deserved rest! and it would be wonderful to start seeing some of the 27th MSB and supporting And so another edition of units coming in to share their times and memories. We had over ten years of Iraqi the 27th News is being put and Afghanistan 27th MSB and BSB deployments. Although we have a good to rest. Thank you to all of relationship with former commanders from those deployments, we want to let all the contributors and please of the troopers know how we older soldiers want so much to hear of your time and keep in contact. We enjoy give you well deserved welcome and thanks. The 27th alumni organization has hearing from everyone. been established since 1997 and it is now time for you all to join the ranks and keep TAPS We have been notified of the death of the following: McKAY, LTC (Ret) Lawrence E., Jr., F Btry., 79th AFA, 1971-72. 8 August AKINS, SGT Herman B., C Co., 1-7th CAV, 1968-69. 27 August 2013. 2013. BELL, 1SG (Ret) Malra C. “Buddy”, A Co., 2-7th CAV, 1965. 16 September MELANCON, BG (Ret) Steven L., B Btry., 2-20th ARA, 1967-68. 2 August 2013. 2013 BIRR, PFC Walter, E Trp., 1-9th CAV, 1970-71. 8 September 2013. MELOY, MG (Ret) Guy S., III, D Co., 1-8th CAV, 1960; HHC, 1-12th CAV, BROWN, CPL Garold L., A Btry., 2-19th FA, 1969-70. 1 June 2013. 1970-71. 25 August 2013. BURTON, SFC (Ret) Jim, LRRP, 1967. 17 February 2013. MURPHY, CPL Melvin L., HHC, 1CD, 1965. 14 May 2013. CATTOLICA, SGT Paul A., B Co., 2-8th CAV, 1968-69. 7 August 2013. MURPHY, SFT Robert J., HQ Btry., 61st FA, 1949-51. 25 July 2013. COFFEY, SFC Elza E., F Co., 2-8th CAV, 1951-52. 2 February 2013. RILEY, LTC (Ret) Paul R., Jr., C Btry., 2-20th ARA, 1965-66. 28 July 2013. COLE, MSG (Ret) Charles N., Jr., HHC, 1CD, 1974-75. 19 July 2013. ROTHSTEIN, SSG Stanley, A Co., 2-5th CAV, 1965-66. 10 August 2013. COX, SP-4 Phillip D., A Co., 2-7th CAV, 1965. 25 July 2013. SAMMON, TRP Robert B., B Trp., 7th CAV, 1943-45. 4 September 2013. DUSZ, PFC, Thomas A., C Co., 5-7th Cav, 1970-71, 12 November 2012. SHOOP, SGT Earl C., HHC, 5th CAV, 1951-52. 9 August 2013. FLICKINGER, SGT Thomas A., HHB, 1-82nd FA, 1986-89; HHB, DIVARTY, SOUTHWORTH, CSM (Ret) Chester W., HHC, 8th ENG, 1974-78. 25 April 1989-91. 19 April 2013. 2013. FRENCH, MG (Ret) Daniel W. III, HHC, 1-12th CAV, 1967-68. 11 August SWEENEY, TSG Jean Jacques, H Trp., 7th CAV, 1944-45. 24 July 2013. 2013. THOMPSEN, T-5 Chester E., C Trp., 5th CAV, 1942-45. 10 March 2013. HAGERTY, SSG Joseph H., 1-9 CAV, 1968, H Co., 75th INF, 1969. 7 August WALTER, T-5 Francis M., HQ, DIVARTY, 1945-46. 24 August 2013. 2013. ACTIVE DUTY TAPS HORN, CSM (Ret) Donald E., HHT, 1-9th CAV, 1958-59; HHT, 11th ACR, The following Active Duty Trooper was killed while supporting Operation 1970. 28 August 2013. Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan: JOHNSON, CPT (Ret) Norman E., A Btry., 1-30th FA, 1969-70. 23 August TOGI, 1LT Jason, C Co., 2nd BSTB, 2012-13. 26 August 2013. 2013. We have been notified of the death of the following Active Duty Troopers in KENDALL, COL (Ret) Donald S., A Det., 27th MNT, 1970. 30 July 2013. the United States that were not combat related: KROMVIG, TRP Frank B., 545th MP, 1957-58. 31 May 2013. BREWER, CW5 Terry L., HHC, 1st ACB, 2011-13. 21 August 2013. LYNCH, LTC (Ret) John B., Jr., E Co., 1-7th CAV, 1970. 12 September 2013. PEREZ, SPC Yosbel, A Co., 115th BSB, 2012-13. 20 July 2013. LYNCH, COL (Ret) Timothy D., HHC, 2-7th CAV, 1993-95. 17 July 2013. PIMPIS, SPC Tyler J., G Btry., 5-82nd FA, 2012-13. 28 August 2013. Division Doings weapons while on a stationary and moving tank. Continued from pg. 10 “It wasn’t easy ... the range was set up different. It was difficult.” Padilla said. “At the 12th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division started same time, I think it’s got us ready for this range. I think it’s going to work out just fine.” the live fire portion of their M1A2 Abrams tank gunnery, also known as Table Tank crews lined a dusty dirt lot waiting their turn to qualify on Table VI. VI, September 16, here. This table consists of eight qualifying tasks that vary from precision and The gunnery for the 1-12th soldiers started more timeliness while engaging a stationary or moving target. The main gun is fired than 10 days ago with Table II, which trains the during this table. individual soldier and crew on basic gunnery skills, “The first engagement pretty much shows you how you’re going to do the rest to engage targets. of the time,” said SGT Jonathan Scott, a tank gunner with D Company, 1-12th While staying both day and night in the training Cav. areas, the soldiers’ only focus was to ensure effi- “I’m pretty confident in how well my crew, the turret crew, will do.” ciency and effectiveness with their crews and tanks. Not only are these crews qualifying on their tanks but they have worked up a Tables III and IV were conducted together to train healthy competition as well, all shooting for “Top Tank.” and qualify the crew’s capability to engage stationary and moving targets. To achieve top tank a crew must have the best overall qualification. “We’ve had plenty of opportunity to get trained up on (gunnery) and we have a lot of Awards and bragging rights go to the crew that has the best qualification score. new guys but we are ready,” said SFC Jose Padilla, a platoon sergeant with D Company. Padilla said. Weapons mounted to the battle tank must also be evaluated. The turret crew and other crews within D Company are slated to finish their Table V is responsible for testing and qualifying the tank-mounted automatic Table VI qualification this week. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 12 Children of Killed or Totally Audrey Michelle DeLuca, daughter Hillary Kay UBC Development Office Disabled 1st Cavalry Division of SGT Steven Alan Wowk 2-12 Cav McGowan, daughter Joshua Shaquon Spearman, son Troopers & 2-19 FA 1/69 - 6/69; .54 Grant, of CPT Robert Stanley of CSM Melvin Spearman 68 CHEM; Capital Community College McGowan Jr. A Co. 2-8 1.5 Grant, Texas A&M University John Christian Kevin Girard Diers, son of CPT Cav 12/65 - 12/66; 4th Kingsville Adams, son of E-4 John Gary Vaughn Diers A Co. 8 ENG Grant, The Ohio State Amanda Louise Wayne Adams HHT 8/67 - 7/68; 2nd Grant, University of University Strickland, daughter 1-9 Cav 6/69 - 6/70; Washington Sean Michael McGowan, son of of COL Roger William 3rd Grant, Cedarville Angela Jean Hartley, daughter of CPT Robert Stanley McGowan Jr. A Strickland HHC University SP-5 Anthony James Hartley HHB 1- Co. 2-8 Cav 12/65 - 12/66; .5 Grant, 1CDH; 3rd Grant, UT Melody Heather 77 FA 12/68 - 1/70; .33 Grant, Portland Columbus State Community College Southwestern Medical Alexander, daughter of SSG (Ret.) State University Matthew Ryan McLean, son of SP- Center Terry Lee Alexander B Co. 2-5 Cav Steven Aaron Keaffaber, son of 5 John Seymour McLean 11 AVNGP; Nicole Elizabeth 1966 – 1967; 1.5 Grant, Liberty SGT Larry Eugene Keaffaber A Co. 3- 3.5 Grant, Eckerd College Strickland, daughter University 32 ARM; 2.5 Grant, Lincoln College S u z a n n e - L o u i s e of COL Roger William Nora Yanah Cata, of Technology Melvin, daughter of Strickland HHC daughter of SGT James Curtis Knapp, son of SGT SP-4 Barry Langdell 1CDH; 3rd Grant, UT Freddie Isaac Cata D Dennis James Knapp D Co. 2-5 Cav Melvin HHC 2-5 Cav Southwestern Medical Co. 1-5 Cav 12/67 - 2/71 - 6/74; .5 Grant, Emmaus Bible 3/67; .5 Grant, Portland Center 12/69; 2nd Grant, San College Community College Heather Coral Patricia Thorp, Jose State University Claire Elliot Larsen, Brian Joseph Ruth, daughter of SP-4 Alexander Aloysius Gina Marie Cimoli, daughter of SP4 William son of SP-4 Kenneth Pucilowski C Co. 229 AVN 1/1/69; .5 daughter of SP-5 Michael Stanley Larsen D Co. William Ruth HHC 2-12 Grant, South University Edward Cimoli C Co. 1-5 Cav; 3.5 Grant, Cav 2/66 - 2/67; 1.5 Grant, Online 227 AVN 9/65; 3rd grant, California Institute of Bloomsburg University Stacia Dyani Ward, University of Michigan the Arts Tiger Robinson Smith, daughter of SP-4 Dennis son of CW2 (Ret) Thomas Mitchell Ward 15 ADM; Leming Smith HHC 1 4th Grant, Northern BDE 6/69; 1.75 Grant, Michigan University

Active Duty 1st Cavalry Division Tanisha S. Caldwell, wife of CPT Deja A. Griffin, daughter of SFC Elayna Strachan, daughter of MSG Grant Recipients Michael R. Caldwell 3 BCT; 2nd Grant, Rober P. Griffin E 4-227 AVN; 1st Grant, Elian Strachan HHBN; 1st Grant, Cen- Texas A&M Central Texas Sam Houston State tral Texas College Nicholas Kyle Alex- SGT Craig Crawford, 2BSTB; 2nd Tanner Bentley Jones, son of CSM SSG George Turner, HHC 2BSTB; ander, son of LTC S. Grant, American Military University Benjamin Jones 3 BCT; 1st Grant, 1st Grant, Ashford University Blake Alexander HHBN; SPC Samantha Houck-Crawford Clarkson University Yalondra Valder- 1st Grant, Texas A&M HHBC 15BSB; 2nd Grant, American Lexy Moreno, daugh- rama, daughter of University Military University ter of 1LT Brent Waters CPL Israel Velez FSC Cori K. Andrike, Luis A. Figueroa, son B 3-227 AVN; 1st Grant, 2-5 Cav; 2nd Grant, daughter of SFC Arthur Andrike HHC of WO2 Luis A. Figueroa University of Mary Har- Central Texas Col- 4BSTB; 1st Grant, Texas A&M Com- B 615 ASB; 1st Grant, din Baylor lege merce University of Texas Aus- Batina Nielsen, wife of Mercedes Vitiello, Addison Burgess Jr., tin SFC Douglas Nielsen 4-9 wife of SPC William son of LTC Addison Nahira Figueroa, Cav; 1st Grant, Brescia University P. Vitiello HHC 2-227 Burgess Sr. HHC 1CDH; daughter of SFC Hiram SFC Christopher A. Roberts, HHC AVN; 1st Grant, Central 1st Grant, Kansas State F. Figueroa C 3-8 Cav; 1st Grant, Sam 2BSTB; 1st Grant, Thomas Edison Texas College University Houston State State FOUNDATION OVERVIEW The Foundation of the 1st Cavalry Division Association was established for of the Division acting in their private capacity as members of the Association. the purpose of providing financial assistance in the form of scholarship grants All requests for grants in this category were satisfied through school year toward the pursuit of an advanced education. 1996/1997, however the large number of active duty applications for school Grants from the Foundation are reserved for children of those soldiers of the year 1997/1998 necessitated that grants be awarded in order of priority. 1st Cavalry Division who died, or were totally and permanently disabled as a Funding for the Ia Drang program comes from donations specifically result of wounds received or disease contracted while serving with the 1st Cavalry earmarked for this category of grant. Ia Drang funds are separately invested in Division in any armed conflict. Additionally, children of members of the As- a fenced program to build up an investment corpus which will sustain additional sociation who die while serving with the 1st Cavalry Division in peacetime and grants from its proceeds. active duty soldiers currently assigned or attached to the 1st Cavalry Division Please mail your tax-deductible donations to the Foundation of the 1st and their spouse and children are eligible to receive scholarship grants. Cavalry Division Association, 302 N. Main St., Copperas Cove, TX 76522- The Foundation also administers a separate program for descendants of soldiers 1703. Donations in the amount of $25 or more will be acknowledged in the who served in designated qualifying units that were involved in the battles of the SABER. Donations of $250 or more will receive a tax certificate as required by Ia Drang valley during the period 3 through 19 . the IRS. Donations intended for the Ia Drang Fund should be made out to the The Foundation of the 1st Cavalry Division Association is a tax-exempt chari- Ia Drang Scholarship Fund. table organization described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code Applications: For more information or an application to register for benefits and all donations are tax-deductible. The Foundation’s tax identification number send a Self Addressed Stamped Envelope (SASE) to the Foundation of the 1st is 23-7016417. Cavalry Division Association, 302 N. Main St., Copperas Cove, TX 76522-1703 Background: The scholarship program was initiated by the Association in 1967 or e-mail us at . You may also print the on-line Registration during the Vietnam War in response to requests from the Sergeants Major of the Form, fill it out completely, and mail it with all of the required supporting Division who committed their support to perpetuation of the program. documentation to the Foundation of the 1st Cavalry Division Association. A trust agreement was signed on 16 August 1968 establishing the Foundation. The application forms for Association members who are active duty Troopers Since that time, no child of a Trooper that has been killed or disabled has been currently serving with the First Team and their families is no longer open. You turned away for lack of funds. Between the generous donations of Association can get the information about this program at . Printed forms are available at the National Headquarters in its own. In the 1970s, in response to a perceived downtrend in applications from Copperas Cove and at the Crossed Sabers Chapter Souvenir Shop in the 1st the aging children of the Division’s Troopers that were killed in action from the Cavalry Division Museum at Fort Hood, Texas beginning on 1 March 2014. Vietnam War, eligibility was expanded to children of Association members killed Fund Raising Events: The Dallas Chapter of the Finance Forum conducted its or disabled while on active duty with the Division. This extension produced an Annual Charity Golf Tournament on Monday, 22 April 2013 to raise funds for the unexpected response from Vietnam veterans who were still producing children. Foundation of the 1st Cavalry Division Association. This year’s tournament was In 1988, again at the behest of the Sergeants Major of the Division, the program held at the Prestonwood Country Club in Dallas and raised $23,500 to provide was expanded further to include soldiers and spouses of soldiers while assigned scholarships for the Troopers of the 1st Cavalry Division and their families. or attached to the Division and in 1996 children of active duty soldiers assigned We greatly to the Division were added to the list of those eligible. The Foundation assumed a p p r e c i a t e responsibility for the Ia Drang program in early 1994 and awarded the first grant the support from this program in 1997. of the Dallas Since its inception, the Foundation has provided: Chapter of • Over $760,000 to 481 children of Troopers that were killed in action or the Finance totally and permanently disabled Forum which • Over $255,000 to 275 active duty Troopers and their family members has donated • Over $473,000 to 224 descendents of the Ia Drang battles a total of Scholarships that began at $400 per year currently provide $1,200 per year with $ 1 4 7 , 1 8 4 a maximum of $4,800 for four years of schooling per student. to the Funding for the program, less the Ia Drang element, derives primarily from Foundation the Foundation’s primary investment portfolio, the annual Division fund drive from its and random donations from the membership and those interested in providing eight Annual support for education. The Association annually provides $12,000 to satisfy Charity Golf projected shortfalls up to a predetermined maximum. All eligible candidates Tournaments for grants who are children of deceased members of the Division are funded. which began Active Duty soldiers and their spouses and children compete for grants and in 2006. Dennis Webster accepts a check for $23,500 from Francois Bouville selection is made annually by a board comprised of Command Sergeants Major on 22 April 2013 to support the Active Duty Scholarship Program. Page 13 saber SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 Kerry Kathleen Devney, Grant, Columbus Technical College Dana Lee Monroe, Children and Grandchildren granddaughter of MAJ of the Veterans of the IaDrang granddaughter of LTC Alan Edward Shannon Jade Jackson, Devney B Co. 1-7 Cav 8/65 - 8/66; 1st granddaughter of E-4 Jimmy Dwight (Ret) John Bolten Campaign Grant, Indiana Wesleyan University Harrison A Co. 1-5 Cav; .42 Grant, Swift HHC 1-7 Cav; Dalton Wiley Dillon, grandson of Forsyth Technical Community 3.5 Grant, Texas A&M Bradley Christian Bethune, COL (Ret) Gregory Patrick Dillon College University grandson of CSM Parnell Watson S-3 1-7 Cav 7/65 - 12/65; 1.75 Julia Rae Jacobs, granddaughter of Diana Lee Monroe, Bethune Sr. C Co. 2-5 Cav 7/3/65 Grant, Northern Virginia Community LTG (Ret) Harold G. Moore Jr. HHC daughter of MAJ (Ret) John Bolten - 8/26/66; .5 Grant, Ocean County College 1-7 Cav 11/65; .5 Grant, Front Range Swift HHC 1-7 Cav; .5 Grant, Grand College Gina Kathryn DiMattia, Community College Canyon University Joseph Alexander Bethune, granddaughter of LTC (Ret) Robert Stephenie Patricia Jekel, Corey Joel Monsewicz, grandson of grandson of CSM Parnell Watson Lee Barker C Btry. 1-21FA 6/65 - 3/66; granddaughter of CW4 Alex Stephen E-5 Lloyd Joel Monsewicz A Co. 2-7 Bethune Sr. C Co. 2-5 Cav 7/3/65 - 2nd Grant, Louisiana State University Jekel Jr. A Co. 229 AVN 7/65; 2nd Cav; .5 Grant, Kent State University 8/26/66; 1st Grant, Temple College Katherine Theresa Grant, Tacoma Community College Alyssa Nicole Murphree, Lane Hillary Bethune, Doyal, granddaughter of Brett Michael Jurs, grandson of granddaughter of SSG Matthew granddaughter of CSM Parnell Watson SSG Matthew Anthony SGT Frank John Knowski A Co. 1-5 Anthony Pepe Jr. A Co. 228 AVN; .5 Bethune Sr. C Co. 2-5 Cav 7/3/65 Pepe Jr. A Co. 228 Cav 7/65 - 12/65; 2.5 Grant, Union Grant, University of North Alabama - 8/26/66; 2nd Grant, Art Institute of AVN; 1st Grant, Central College Keri Ann Parish, daughter of SP-4 Philadelphia Alabama Community Tyler Robert Konrardy, grandson Willard Franklin Parish C Co. 1-7 Cav Heather Nadine Bird, College of 1LT Robert Joseph Konrardy A Co 7/65 - 12/65; 3.5 Grant, Northeastern granddaughter of SGM (Ret) Henry Madeline Christine 1-5 Cav; 2.5 Grant, The University of State University DeMeritte DIVARTY & A Btry. 1- Fajen, granddaughter of Iowa Michael Steven Parrish, grandson 77FA 7/65 - 7/66; .5 Grant, Virginia 1LT Richard Lawrence Ian Alexander Langford, grandson of COL (Ret) Glenwood Newton Tech Fajen D Co. 2-5 Cav; 2nd of COL (Ret) Ollie Legree Langford Parrish 11 AVN 7/65; 2nd Grant, Lord Andrew Allen Birdsong, grandson Grant, The University of HHB 1-21 FA 7/65 - 5/66; 1.5 Grant, Fairfax Community College of COL (Ret) Jerry Eugene Whiteside Iowa University of South Carolina Zane Nicholas Pierce, grandson 1-21 FA August 1965; .5 Grant, Texas Kenda Chastina Hallie Mariah Lawrence, of SGT Richard Albert Pierce HHC A&M University Gabler, daughter of SGT granddaughter of SGT Ronnie Thomas 3 BDE 9/1/65 - 8/31/66; .5 Grant, Alyssa Gabrielle Blankenship, Kenneth Charles Risley Mathis A Co. 1-5 Cav; .5 Grant, Washington State University granddaughter of E-4 D Co. 2-5 Cav 7/65 - Clemson University Brady Tyler Retz, grandson of 1SG Clyde Densol Blankenship 8/66; 1.47 Grant, Johnson James Thomas Lopez, grandson of Harold Raul Matos-Diaz C Co. 1-7 A Co. 1-5 Cav 7/65; 1.96 County Community CPT James Robert Spears 2-20 ARA; Cav 8/16/65 - 9/1/66; .5 Grant, Texas Grant, Wake Technical College 1st Grant, Fresno Pacific University State University Community College Keith Patrick Gabler II, grandson Bridget Marie Mainor, Kathleen Marian Rogers, Ashlie Denise of SGT Kenneth Charles Risley D granddaughter of SFC granddaughter of LTC Alan Edward Blankenship , Co. 2-5 Cav 7/65 - 8/66; 1st Grant, Bernard James Creed D Devney B Co. 1-7 Cav 8/65 - 8/66; .5 granddaughter of Pittsburg State University Co 2-7 Cav; 1.25 Grant, Grant, University of South Florida E-4 Clyde Densol Aric Julian Gaumond, grandson of Gwinnett Technical Kathleen Christine Schaefer, Blankenship A Co. SP-4 Chester Edward Sey C Co. 2-5 College granddaughter of PFC Anthony 1-5 Cav 7/65; 3.13 Cav 11/65; .5 Grant, Central Maine Ashley Nicole Marshall, Eugene Pendola C Co. 2- 8 Cav; 3.88 Grant, Wake Technical Community College granddaughter of MAJ (Ret) Francisco Grant, Northern Illinois University Community College Morgan Renee Greco, Granillo Moreno A Co. 229 AVN 11/65; Christina Julia Small, Dillon Clay Blyth, grandson of granddaughter of COL Frank Leonidas 3rd Grant, Arizona State University granddaughter of CPT SGT Frank John Knowski A Co. 1- Henry HHC 2-7 Cav 1965; 3rd Grant, Gina Marie Martini, granddaughter Robert Allan Carrara HHC 5 Cav 7/65 - 12/65; .5 Grant, Casper Texas A & M University of PFC Roger Michael Martin B Co. 1-7 Cav 1965; 4th Grant, College Skyler Paige Hanson, granddaughter 1-5 Cav 11/17/65; .5 Grant, University University of Illinois Hannah Elizabeth Bosse, of LTC Roger Jay Bartholomew C Btry. of Wisconsin - Whitewater Champaign Urbana granddaughter of SP-4 Albert Bernard 2-20 ARA; .5 Grant, The University of Jared Paul Matteucci, son of E- Rebecca Joan Small, Bosse Sr. HHC 1-7 Cav 7/1/65 - 3/5/66; Georgia 5 Paul Edward Matteucci Jr. B Co. granddaughter of CPT Robert Allan 2nd Grant, Calhoun Community S p e n c e r 1-7 Cav 11/65 - 12/66; 3rd Grant, Carrara HHC 1-7 Cav 1965; 1st Grant, College Margaret Hanson, Keystone College Loyola University Chicago Christopher Lee Brigham, granddaughter of Rachel Dawn Matteucci, daughter Dalton Taylor Smith, grandson of grandson of 1LT James S. Brigham LTC Roger Jay of E-5 Paul Edward Matteucci Jr. B SGT Ronald Wade Barrow B Co. 1-7 HHC 2-7Cav 7/65 - 8/66; 4th Grant, Bartholomew C Btry. Co. 1-7 Cav 11/65 - 12/66; 3rd Grant, Cav 6/65 to 11/65; 1st Grant, Wingate Middle Tennessee State University 2-20 ARA; 2nd Grant, Wilkes University University Deanne Frances Cardenas, The University of Martha Olivia McClary, Courtney Michelle Sugdinis, daughter of SP-4 Chester Edward Georgia granddaughter of SP-4 Hardy Devon granddaughter of CPT Joel Edward Sey C Co. 2-5 Cav 11/65; 3.5 Grant, Kellie Patricia Harlow, Brown C Co. 1-7 Cav 7/65 - 3/66; .5 Sugdinis A Co. 2-7 Cav 10/65 - 3/66; .5 Quinsigamond Community College granddaughter of COL (Ret) Edward Grant, University of South Carolina - Grant, University of Central Florida Ryan Christopher Chesney, Charles Robinson B Co. 229 AVN Columbia Jonathan Harris Swedberg, grandson of COL (Ret) James Thomas 1965 – 1966; 3rd Grant, James Todd Robert Ace McDunn II, grandson of PSG John Allen Uselton B Rackstraw 1-7 Cav 8/65 - 8/66; 1st Madison University grandson of MSG (Ret) William Co. 2-7 Cav 8/65; 2.0 Grant, Columbus Grant, University of Tampa Kerrie Allyson Harlow, David Bradley A and D Co. 229 AVN; Technical College Alyssa Marie Coldsmith, granddaughter of COL (Ret) Edward .5 Grant, University of Tennessee - Tessa Starr Swehla, granddaughter granddaughter of LTC John Robert Charles Robinson B Co. 229 AVN Martin of SP-5 Jacob E. Starr HHC 3 BDE; Howard 2-7 Cav 1965; 2nd Grant, 1965 – 1966; 1st Grant, Virginia Joshua Davis Meadows, grandson 4th Grant, John Brown University Shippensburg University Commonwealth University of SGM (Ret) Bobby Eugene Meadows Jessica Lyle Weber, daughter of Amanda Marie Collins, Bailey Nicole Hartzog, A Co. 1-8 Cav 7/65 - 11/65; 1.92 Grant, SSG Earl Lyle Maines D Co. 2-5 granddaughter of SSG Keith Owen granddaughter of SGT June David Northern Arizona University Cav 7/65 - 8/66; 2.79 Grant, BCTC Maynard B Co. 229 AVN; .21 Grant, McKinney C Co. 2-7 Cav 10/65 - 8/67; Elizabeth Kay Merchant, Winchester Clark County Campus J. Sargeant Reynolds Community .5 Grant, Butler Community College granddaughter of LTC (Ret) Richard Sherry Ann Whisonant, daughter College Arlena Jean Hay, granddaughter of Ival Merchant HHC 1-7 Cav 7/65 - of SP-4 Richard Robert Ackerman D Connor Charles CPT Robert Allan Carrara HHC 1-7 7/66; 2.5 Grant, University of Oregon Co. 2-7 CAV 1965; .58 Grant, York DeSha, grandson of CSM Cav 1964-1965; 3rd Grant, University Matthew Gray Merchant, grandson Technical College Charles Edgar DeSha of Illinois of LTC (Ret) Richard Ival Merchant Joshua Michael Williams, grandson HHC 2-8 Cav 1965; John Robert Hogg, grandson HHC 1-7 Cav 7/65 - 7/66; 1st Grant, of LTC (Ret) Billie Gene Williams C 2nd Grant, University of of LTC (Ret) Robert Lee Barker C Seattle Pacific University Trp. 1-9 Cav 1965; 1st Grant, Texas Southern California Btry. 1-21 FA 6/65 - 3/66; 1st Grant, Merry Elizabeth Minchey, A&M University Galveston David Andrew DeSha, Louisiana State University granddaughter of E-4 Jimmy Dwight Cecilia Anne Wirth, granddaughter grandson of CSM Charles Edgar Patricia Lorena Humphrey, Harrison A Co. 1-5 Cav; 1.13 Grant, of COL (Ret) Herman Louis Wirth DeSha HHC 2-8 Cav 1965; .5 Grant, daughter of SGM Floyd Vernon Forsyth Technical Community HHC 1-7 Cav 1965; 1st Grant, Portland State University Humphrey C Co. 2-7 Cav 1965; 1.5 College Syracuse University IA DRANG SCHOLARSHIP FUND UPDATE The Ia Drang Scholarship Fund which was founded in 1994 by LTG (Ret) Harold their funds as a separate program. For years the Ia Drang Fund’s investment G. Moore and Joseph L. Galloway to provide scholarships to the descendants of portfolio grew and the fund was fully able to pay the scholarships requested those that fought in the Ia Drang Valley from 3-19 November 1965 is running without affecting the portfolio due to generous donations. We have been forced out of money. It is running out of money because the number of applicants for in the past three years to sell stocks and bonds and spend any earnings to write the scholarship exceeds the income derived from donations and investments. scholarship checks rather than reinvesting the earnings to build the fund. While this program was never designed to last forever, it is apparent that many Initially this program was only open to children but due to the age of most of the of the descendents that are registered to receive scholarship grants will not children of Ia Drang Veterans the program was expanded to provide scholarships receive anything since the funds could all be gone before they are eligible to to grandchildren. This is the only program run by the Foundation that provides attend college. scholarships to grandchildren. The Trustees of the Foundation have been trying to figure out ways to extend Eligibility: Children (including legally adopted) and grandchildren of Ia Drang the life of this program but without an infusion of funds from donors the program Valley battlefield combat veterans of designated qualifying units (ground and will run out of money even with improvements in the stock market. In 2012, the air) which were involved in the battles of the Ia Drang valley during the period Ia Drang Fund paid out $59,900 in scholarships to 71 students. This is a marked 3 through 19 November, 1965. Children and grandchildren of men who were increase from 2007 when 59 students received $39,860. assigned to a unit that fought in the Ia Drang battles but were themselves at An The Ia Drang Scholarship Fund was initially funded from the earnings from Khe base camp, at Pleiku/Camp Holloway, at Catecka, in a hospital, etc. and not book Once--And Young that was written by LTG Moore and in the Ia Drang battles are not eligible for award of scholarship grants. Joe Galloway. In early 1994 the Board of Governors of the 1st Cavalry Division It is the responsibility of the applicant to determine whether his/her father/ Association agreed to expand the activities of the Foundation of the 1st Cavalry grandfather served in battle in at least one of the qualifying units in at least one Division Association to include the Ia Drang Scholarship Program and manage Continued on pg. 17 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 14 99th FA News I would like take shortly after joining the unit. Jim Miller this opportunity to The photo is of a B Battery 819 West Howard St. wish a belated Happy Winona, MN 55987-2642 wounded Trooper lying on the (507) 454-4224 Birthday to Ed Carty litter with several individuals [email protected] who turned 91 on June huddled around him includ- 24. Happy Birthday, ing a Chaplain, Medics, the Ed, from all us young guys and girls. I got a call from Ed and Dot Carty and had doctor, a buddy (a member of a nice conversation. Ed said according to his doctors he’s in perfect physical Headquarters wire section), B condition except he can’t move. I’m always glad to talk to our big brothers from Battery CO, and the photog- World War II when I have a chance. I don’t think younger people understand how rapher who took the picture. deeply in trouble the United States was in the early days of WWII. The Japanese The scene is seconds before had a foot in the door in Alaska and were looking in the window along the west the tremendous explosion coast of the U.S. The Germans were patrolling the Atlantic coast with their U- killing and wounding several Boats. Things were not looking good for sure. That’s why it’s so important to of our troops. I was alerted to Wounded Being Evacuated from the April 5, 1951 say, “Thank You,” to the WWII veterans who literally saved our country. this photo last year. Rick Van Mine Incident Speaking of WWII, our community was recently visited by a refurbished B-25 Giesen told me it had popped bomber that had flown missions over Europe during the war. A friend of mine up on the Korean War Site. We decided not to run it in the column because of who’s interested in old airplanes asked me if I was interested in going to the airport the emotional response it causes. However, this is the second time I’ve seen it to see it. I told him that I didn’t have a lot of familiarity with military aircraft but from other sources. Beside this time I was shown the photo by a member of one I’d probably recognize it if I heard it. He looked at me quizzically as he often of my retiree coffee groups who had it in a religious publication honoring the does and I related an experience from the early days of Korea. Catholic chaplain who was being praised for his devotion to duty and faith. The We had set up a perimeter defense around the position of Headquarters Battery guy who showed it to me didn’t know I had a personal tie to the incident, he just and laid a sort of party line telephone line to each position. The idea was each knew that I was a Korean veteran. The chaplain was not our unit chaplain; I don’t foxhole was manned with two GI’s, a bazooka or machine gun, and an EE-8 tele- believe we had a regular chaplain at that time. I believe he and the photographer phone. One guy was to be listening to the phone at all times but no one should were from Division Headquarters and were helping out at the scene. crank it so it would ring all the way around the position. I happened to be assigned I remember that the battalion was rendezvousing to change areas and Head- to one of the positions and in the middle of the night, I don’t know what time, I quarters Battery had pulled into this field followed by B Battery. My wire team only know it was pitch black like it could be there on moonless nights, we heard was sitting on and near our 3/4-ton truck talking when all of this happened; we the engines of a large plane. We knew it wasn’t “Bedcheck Charlie” who flew were about 10 or 15 yards away and watched it unfold like a bad dream. It’s something like a Piper Cub, it was something much larger. The engine sound something I’ll never forget. was followed by a huge explosion which was followed by several voices on the I attended the funeral of a Korean War veteran who was a friend and a colleague party line with various choice phrases with one meaning: we had been bombed recently. He was a musician and played in an Army band in Korea. He used to probably by our own plane. To my knowledge no one ever found out who did it tease me and tell me I should have stuck with music lessons when I was young or where the bomb landed. At that time we had been strafed a couple of times so I could have been in the band at Pusan welcoming replacements instead of also, but we figured the fly people were saving our rear ends much of the time running the Spirit Forward wire team. I later learned that he also toured with a so we could give them some slack. Last week when that B-25 flew low over my group near the front lines entertaining troops. He was a good guy. house on its way out of town, the sound was very familiar; I only wish I could Thanks for all you who encouraged me to keep reminding folks about the Ko- have recorded the vocal reaction on our party line in 1950. rean War and the losses we suffered. It seems like we didn’t want to talk about I had an interesting experience recently in regard to the 99th FA Battalion it in the ’50s and things haven’t changed. in Korea. I received an e-mail message forwarded to me by Dennis Webster, I received a letter from Jack Coapstick from Gary, Indiana who served in A Executive Director of the 1st Cavalry Division Association. A Marine veteran Battery in May ’49 and rotated from Korea June 17, 1951. He went on to the had noticed a plaque in honor of a Columbia University graduate with a photo 538th FA Battalion at Fort Collins to finish out his enlistment. Good to hear from the April 05, 1950 mine disaster embedded on it. He was questioning the from Jack. wording which said something to the effect that the honoree was a Navy doctor I wore an item of clothing with the 1st Cav insignia on every day of the recent rushing to save Marines before being killed in action. The Marine vet said cor- trial at Fort Hood in support and remembrance of the Troopers involved in the rectly that the troops in the photo were GI’s not Marines and he was wondering murders there. if the doctor was actually in an Army unit or if this was some kind of mistaken I may be out of touch by the time you get this. I have to get some new body identity situation. parts and I think they’re going to keep me in the shop for a while. The doctor was U.S. Navy Lt. (JG) James Brewer Crane Crouch a 1948 Columbia Remember all those who have served with the 99th FA Battalion; we are brothers. Medical School graduate. Dr. Crouch ended up in the 99th FA Battalion when Keep in mind there are still many young men and women serving our country in our Battalion doctor rotated. Unfortunately he was killed in the mine incident danger now; pray for them, and don’t forget, we are all in this together. PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION – PLIEKU PROVINCE The following are first test of arms, proved its validity. remarks given by Presi- They proved more than a concept. To the Vietnamese people who had lived dent Lyndon B. John- under Vietcong control for so long, their presence helped destroy the myth--which son on 15 September the enemy had carefully built--that the area was permanently tied to the enemy. 1967 at the awarding The war in Vietnam, as all of you know, is a new kind of conflict. American of the Presidential Unit arms are being tested there by a new kind of aggression. If it should succeed, it Citation presentation at will be used again. Of that, we and the rest of the world may be sure. the White House. In past years, our military gave us only the alternatives of permitting the enemy Secretary Resor, to have his victory undeterred, or of stopping him with a massiveness that could General Haines, Gen- provoke a nuclear war. eral Kinnard, members America needed a new response to meet the new form of aggression. Great and former members of names went into the construction of that response-John F. Kennedy, Robert Mc- the 1st Cavalry Divi- Namara, Maxwell Taylor. sion: What the 1st Cavalry Division did in the Ia Drang Valley demonstrated that the America’s history new kind of warfare could be met and could be mastered. They dealt a hard blow books are filled with to the Communist belief that freedom can be destroyed piece by piece. the names of places What happens in Vietnam is extremely important to this Nation’s freedom that are far removed and it is extremely important to the United States security. The cavalrymen who from America’s shores, took their stand in the Central Highlands, and showed that America could meet where her strength and its responsibilities in fact as well as in theory, knew that. The men in Vietnam her will were tested, today know it. and where they tri- And because they fought with such bravery and such umphed. skill, I salute them here this morning on behalf of all of their fel- We know most of low citizens who live in this Nation of which all of us are so proud. those places very well- Thank you very much. the Argonne--Anzio-- [Preceding the President’s remarks, Secretary of the Army Stanley R. Resor Okinawa--and the Pu- read the citation, the text of which follows.] san Perimeter. By virtue of the authority vested in me as President of the United States and President Johnson attaches the PUC Streamer to the Di- Now they will add as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States I have today vision Colors that are held by CSM Westervelt and LTC the Ia Drang Valley in awarded Kinnard look on. the Central Highlands THE PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION (ARMY) FOR EXTRAORDINARY of South Vietnam. HEROISM TO THE 1ST CAVALRY DIVISION ( AIRMOBILE ) AND AT- In one critical month there in the fall of 1965, American troops were locked in TACHED UNITS major combat with regular forces from . The 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) and attached units distinguished them- When that month was over, the emerging shape of what we now know to be a selves by outstanding performance of duty and extraordinary heroism in action certain truth could be seen: The enemy can never win Vietnam by armed conquest. against an armed enemy in the Republic of Vietnam during the period 23 October Today, we have come here to the Rose Garden in the White House to honor the 1965 to 26 November 1965. Following the attack on a Special Forces camp at men who first proved that this was so: the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Their Plei Me, in Pleiku Province, on 19 October 1965 by regular units of the Army of performance in the Ia Drang Valley from October 23 to November 26, 1965, has North Vietnam, the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) was committed to action. earned them a Presidential Unit Citation for heroism. The division was initially assigned the mission of protecting the key com- Air cavalry--with its mobility and its potential for surprise on the battlefield- munications center of Pleiku, in addition to providing fire support both for an -was a promising but untried concept, until the men of the 1st Cavalry, in their Continued on pg. 24 Page 15 saber SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 CHAPTER INDEX ALL THE WAY BRIGADE CHAPTER FLORIDA TROOP B “BAKER JUMPING MUSTANG CHAPTER LRRP/RANGER of the 1st Cav Division NORTHWEST CHAPTER Pres: Bennett Guthrie TROOP” 1-8 Cav during the Vietnam War. Pres.: Roy Rio 29112 S. 558 Road Pres: Bill Franklin Pres: Maurice Waters Pres.: Doug Parkinson PO Box 773 Park Hill, OK 74451-2875 473 Kimberly Dr. 18543 Rancho Vista Dr. PO Box 131 Manchester, WA 98353-0773 (918) 931-0911 Melbourne, FL 32940-7773 Ramona, CA 92065-6011 Bayside, CA 95524-0131 (360) 871-5867 E-mail: [email protected] (321) 255-0868 (760) 789-5136 (707) 822-8421 E-mail: [email protected] Call or e-mail for meeting info. E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] POC: Ric James POC: Frank Alverson POC: James C. Knafel Website: www.tomah.com/lrrp_ranger/ PO Box 1305 CENTRAL SAVANNAH 12468 Boney Rd. 5510E - 500 South Full chapter meeting during Reunions Bremerton, WA 98337-0511 RIVER AREA CHAPTER Jacksonville, FL 32226-1983 Columbia City, IN 46725-7621 (360) 536-1050 Pres: John Rangel, Jr. (904) 757-7009 (260) 244-3864 NATIONAL CAPITOL REGION E-mail: [email protected] POC: Gary Quinn E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] CHAPTER Meets 1200 1st Sat. of even months, 395 Harlem Grovetown Rd. Meets qtrly for dinner at area restaurants Website: www.JumpingMustangs.com Pres: Eugene N. Russell contact Roy Rio or Ric James for meet- Harlem, GA 30814-4525 in Melbourne, Merritt Island area, usu- 7923 Jansen Dr. ing location. (706) 513-5858 ally on Tues. evening. KETTLE MORAINE CHAPTER Springfield, VA 22152-2413 Meets on 2nd Sat. of mo., 1400 at Ryans Pres: Dick Schwarten (703) 569-2770 ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER Steak House on Peach Orchard Rd., Augusta, FLORIDA TROOP C W152 S7917 Mystic Dr. POC: Henry DeMeritte Pres: Robert Stauffacher GA (Mar., June, Sept. and Dec.) Pres: Leo ‘Doc’ Williams Muskego, WI 53150 14208 Fisher Ave. 18355 Drennan Rd. 3098 Golden View Ln. (414) 422-8555 Woodbridge, VA 22191-2212 Colorado Springs, CO 80928-9308 COLUMBIA-WILLAMETTE Orlando, FL 32812 E-mail: [email protected] (703) 494-5507 (719) 683-2837 CHAPTER (407) 277-5763 POC: Harold Bourne E-mail: [email protected] POC: Dave Enyart Pres: Terry Low Meets 2nd Sat. at 11:00am of ea. mo. 6415 Carolann Dr. Website: 1cda.org/national_capitol.htm 4104 Maxwell Rd. 16560 S Harding Rd. at VFW Post 2093, 4444 Edgewater Brown Deer, WI 53223-1519 Meets 3d Sat. of the month Jan.-Apr and Colorado Springs, CO 80909-5424 Oregon City, OR 97045-9679 Dr., Orlando. (414) 255-7829 Sep.-Oct. 0900 at the American Legion Post (719) 596-6145 (503) 210-5558 Meetings held at 3 month intervals with 176, 6520 Amherst Ave., Springfield, VA. E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] FLORIDA TROOP E “BLACK a banquet dinner in Dec. when elections Breakfast available prior to start of mtg. Jun Meets 9am 2nd Sat. of mo.at at Retired Website: www.Hood2Hood1stCav.webs. HATS” are held. meeting is at WRAMC and Nov. meeting Enlisted Assn. Chapter 1, 834 Emory Cir., com Pres: Juan Kellog at the Assn. Vets Day gathering. Colorado Springs. Meets 1830 3rd Wed of ea. mos. at the Vil- 6907 Birdie Way #19A GERALD F. KINSMAN CHAPTER lage Inn, 1621 NE 10th Ave., Portland, OR Fort Myers, FL 33919-6600 Pres: Owen Levine NEVADA CHAPTER SHERIDAN’S CAVALRY CHAPTER 97232. No meeting in Dec. (978) 460-7588 77 Clubhouse Dr. Pres: J.H. “Mac” McCracken (Greater Chicago Area) E-mail: juankellogg@embarqmail. Leominister, MA 01453-5170 225 S. Wallace Dr. Pres.: Bruce Peterson CONNECTICUT CHAPTER com (978) 534-6284 Las Vetgas, NV 89107-2557 614 Burch St. Pres: Keith Moyer Website: http://www.seahog.org/cav/ E-mail: [email protected] (702) 595-1253 Sugar Grove, IL 60554-9297 48 Boretz Rd. index.html Meets yearly. E-mail: [email protected] (630) 466-9059 Colchester, CT 06415-1009 Meets 4th Sat. ea. mo. from Aug. - May Meets the first Sat. of the month at 10am. E-mail: [email protected] (860) 537-1716 1:00pm. at the Country Kitchen, 2921 E. JAMES J. MASON WEST MICHIGAN Breakfast 0830-0930 prior to meetings. Website: www.sheridansfirstcav.com E-mail: [email protected] Palm Beach Blvd. in Fort Myers. CHAPTER Call for meeting location and directions. Meets at the American Legion Post #1084, Website: www.ConnCav.com Pres.: Ron Kloet 322 E. Maple Ave., Roselle, IL 61072 Meeting info in newsletter and on web FLYING HORSEMAN CHAPTER POC: Bob Anderson NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY CHAPTER at 1pm. page. (Upstate New York Area) 9030 Conservancy Dr. NE Pres: Bob Arbasetti Pres: Charles T. Sullivan Ada, MI 49301-8822 60 River Rd. #E103 SOUTHEASTERN COLORADO CROSSED SABERS CHAPTER 148 Decker Rd. (616) 682-5446 Bogota, NJ 07603-1528 CHAPTER Pres: Jerry Eller Lowman, NY 14861-8900 E-mail: [email protected] (201) 883-0343 Pres: Gregorio Trujillo 808 S. 2nd St. (607) 737-0743 Website: jjmwmc1cd.com E-mail: [email protected] PO Box 215 Killeen, TX 76541-7703 E-mail: [email protected] Meets Sept.-June on 3rd Thurs. of mo. Facebook: New York New Jersey Cav- Las Animas, CO 81054-0215 Meets 1st Sunday each month at the Elmira at 7pm, at the Grand Valley Armory in alry (719) 456-0028 FIRST CHAPTER American Legion Post #443 on Lake St. Wyoming, MI . Meets at Elk Lodge at Cedar and Spruce, POC: John Campos Pres: Robert H. Wolfe Ridgefield Park, NJ. 1308 Lewis Ave. 4756 Haracourt Dr. FOLLOW ME CHAPTER LAST FRONTIER CHAPTER La Junta, CO 81052-3024 El Paso, TX 79924-3047 Pres: Robert Dodson Pres.: John W. Thomas NORTH CAROLINA - TARHEEL (719) 384-0379 (915) 755-7944 (334) 298-5852 225A Akutan Ave., Apt. A CHAPTER Website: www.firstcavalry.net Meets 1900 4thTues. ea. mo. Veterans Jber, AK 99505-1301 Pres: Roy Wood Meets 1st Sat. of ea. mo. at 10am at the FLORIDA CHAPTER Ctr., 1000 Victory Dr., Columbus, GA. E-mail: [email protected] 4407 Talavera Dr. Holiday Inn in LaJunta, CO.. Pres: Leo ‘Doc’ Williams No meeting in December Contact for meeting info. High Point, NC 27265-9660 3098 Golden View Ln. (336) 707-1402 WALTER H. WESTMAN Orlando, FL 32812-5947 FORT KNOX AREA CHAPTER LOS ANGELES/ORANGE COUNTY E-mail: [email protected] NORTHLAND CHAPTER (407) 277-5763 Pres.: Thomas Ken O’Barr CHAPTER Contact for Membership: Don Gibson Pres: Donald A. Delsing Facebook: Florida Chapter 1st Cavalry 12210 Valley Dr. Pres: John Guillory 803 McDonald Church Road 3697 Gresham Ave. N. Division Association Goshen, KY 40026-9501 780 Mandevilla Way Rockingham, NC 28379-8529 Oakdale, MN 55128-3212 Meets quarterly at different locations around (502) 228-8032 Corona, CA 92879-8251 (910) 895-0747 (651) 770-5422 the state. E-mail: [email protected] (951) 278-3740 e-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] POC: Larry A. Whelan E-mail: [email protected] Meets 2nd Sat of Mar., Jun, Sept. & Dec. POC: James D. Wright FLORIDA TROOP A “LAKELAND 2103 Winston Ave. Vice Pres: John Burgner 12781 Able St. NE AREA“ Louisville, KY 40205-2535 228 South Hacienda St. Blaine, MN 55434-3261 Pres: Walter C. Smith (502) 485-1270 Anaheim, CA 92804-2569 (763) 757-7140 5090 Ironwood Trail E-mail: [email protected] (714) 535-0737 E-mail: [email protected] Bartow, FL 33830-8946 Website: www.1cda.org/fort_knox.html E-mail: [email protected] Meets quarterly at different locations. Call (863) 904-8875 Meets 3rd Sat. of mo. at 1100 at the Meets 0900 on 3rd Sat. of mo. at Brea Vet- or write for information. E-mail: [email protected] Barker Masonic Lodge, 705 Main St., erans Club, 735 S. Brea Blvd., Brea, CA If you have changes to this POC: Verlin Buck Rogers West Point, KY. listing, contact the Association (863) 858-3559 at (254) 547-6537 or e-mail at E-mail: [email protected] A Troop is currently without a meeting . location, please contact Buck for meet- ing info.

LRRP/Ranger News Hello from the na- Cambodian border areas west, northwest, and north of Saigon. But as the war Ken White tion’s capital. I hope went on, the operation was expanded to include other parts of South Vietnam, 3834 Inverness Road that everyone had an such as central South Vietnam, where the 1st Cav operated from August 1965 Fairfax, VA 22033 enjoyable summer and until January 1968, and the Trail regions of northern South Vietnam, (703) 352-1468 that you got to spend where the 1st Cav operated in 1968. The expanded operations were based at a [email protected] some time outdoors number of air bases, including Phu Cat Air Base in eastern Binh Dinh Province enjoying the weather and Da Nang Air Base in eastern Quang Nam Province. For those of you who and relaxing. We had served in the 1st Cav in the August 1965 to January 1968 timeframe, you might splendid weather here in the mid-Atlantic Region, for the most part, with tem- remember Phu Cat Air Base. It was located about ten kilometers north of where peratures that were not too hot and humidity that was relatively low, just right Highway 19 intersected with Highway 1 - just outside the city of Qui Nhon, ap- for outdoor activities. We are fortunate here in that there are plenty of things to proximately 30 kilometers south of LZ Uplift. do in the summertime, including attending concerts by the U.S. Military bands, After the 1st Cav moved south to III Corps from I Corps in October-November which include the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force bands. They per- 1968, it operated in areas that received some of the heaviest spraying of the entire form regularly throughout the summer at various locations in the area, mostly war, such as the tropical rain forests of War Zones C and D. on summer evenings. The concerts are free and tickets are not required. They During the ten years of , five million acres of jungle and honor those who have served our country and tend to inspire patriotism 500,000 acres of crops were heavily damaged or destroyed by Agent Orange in A story appeared in a recent edition of The Washington Post newspaper about South Vietnam and along the borders with Cambodia and Laos, according to the Vietnam-era Air Force C-123 cargo planes that were used in the Vietnam War to U.S. Congress, House Committee on Foreign Affairs, 2009. In that time, 20 percent spray Agent Orange over jungle areas hiding North Vietnamese Army (NVA) and of the jungle areas of South Vietnam were sprayed at least once. Today, the areas Viet Cong (VC) soldiers. After the war, many of these planes were returned to that were once the Bien Hoa, Phu Cat, and Da Nang air bases, among others, are the United States and used by the Air Force as cargo carriers. They were only still heavily contaminated with toxins from Agent Orange, and are on a national retired from service in the mid-1980s, when they were mothballed at a storage priority list for containment and clean-up by the Vietnamese government. facility at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. Tests conducted On a different note, Bill Carpenter (1967) and I finally made it back to the Na- on them over the years revealed that many of them still contained toxins associ- tional Archives in College Park, Maryland to resume our search for information ated with Agent Orange at levels that greatly exceeded the Defense Department’s on the formation of the LRRP/Ranger unit in Vietnam in late 1966 - early 1967. screening levels, according to the Federal Agency for Toxic Substances and But again, we didn’t find anything. We did, however, find information on the Disease Registry. Over the last decade or so, most of the planes were destroyed. period from mid-1967 through 1971 in the division’s daily logs. After the trip, They were mechanically shredded into cell phone-size pieces and melted down Bill sent me a follow-up email that read as follows: at temperatures as hot as 1400 degrees (Fahrenheit) - hot enough to destroy any “I found the division daily journal for Signal Hill. However, except for saying traces of toxins, and poured into blocks and sold for scrap. that the PL was shot through the chest and medevaced, and one other LRRP was The spraying of Agent Orange during the war was done as part of Operation medevaced because of shrapnel wounds received on the first day of the battle and Ranch Hand. It was intended to deny the NVA and VC soldiers of jungle sanc- now two days later were badly infected, I found nothing about personnel. There tuaries where they could hide and take refugee from the Americans and South was also an entry for April 19 that said 19 engineers, 12 LRRP/Rangers and six Vietnamese. It was also intended to destroy their food supplies. It lasted from commo men were on the hill. What I was hoping for were names. My guess is 1961 until 1971. For most of that time, the operation was based at Bien Hoa Air that the only thing that went in those journals was radio contact communications Base north of Saigon because most of the spraying of Agent Orange in the early between the reporting unit and the division. So any commo between those on years of the war was concentrated in the Mekong Delta Region and along the Continued on pg. 18 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 16

Hank Llewellyn member Bob Hesselbein, who lives in the small southern Wisconsin town where 58 Mapleleaf Lane my brother David is buried. Bob took it upon himself this past Memorial Day to Pottstown, PA 19464- fix up David’s grave, as it’s 250 miles away from me. He’s the Vice President 1543 of the VHPA now. (Our seats on the return flight happened to be immediately (484) 948-9451 in front of Bob.) SilverWingsoftheCav@ The morning of the Gold Star Family breakfast, I looked out the window of our Comcast.Net hotel room and noticed a revolving gold star atop one of the tall buildings - got a picture of it. It was directly in view and certainly appropriate! The breakfast Hello once again fellow Sky Troopers. Let’s pull pitch and launch this month’s went very well, with about 150 people total. Yes! There were about 18 Gold Star “Wings” sortie. I received much commo these past two months, both email and Family members there. Each spoke so eloquently when telling about their loved phone. By far most pertained to the “story” by CWO Joe Salomone, 1-9th Re- one. There was so much support there for the family members, you could feel it. con. But I’ll get into that a little deeper into the column. First let’s share some VHPA has a strong commitment to recognizing the Gold Star Family members. requests and information from you. There was a lot of support from the members for the breakfast, and families were Larry Agosta from New Jersey called me. He needs the help of someone out made very welcome. Netta Squires from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund there. Larry has been trying for many years to locate copies of Morning Reports attended - she was at the reunion to scan photos of Vietnam casualties for the for the 15th Administration Co. and A Co. ,229th, both out of Bien Hoa, 1969-1970. Education Center being built. If you have a photo of a KIA, please contact her He’s been through the records of St. Louis Missouri all the way up to a Veteran at . Congressman with no help. I don’t know where to direct him. Not my area of The banquet went well, also, a 12-yr-old Vietnamese girl sang the National An- expertise. Are morning reports even archived? Perhaps one of the readers can them better than I’ve ever heard it sung before. What a strong voice she had. provide some insight and help. Reply to me or contact Larry directly at: Larry Here are some photos if you’re interested. . sets/72157634586376394/>. There’s much more to reflect on . . . next year’s Kraig Morris (Medevac) wrote Bruce Wilder (20th and 79th Artillery Regiment reunion will be in Louisville.” Julie, thanks and appreciation for sharing the columnist) and Silver Wings. He shared proud news of his daughter, PFC Hannah update. Morris with some other thoughts. You can read more in Bruce’s column. But Next up is Art Crouse, , he wrote: “Hello, I am SSG I’d like to thank Kraig for including me in his commo and pride. Good hearing Art Crouse. I served two tours in Nam, Hunter Killer team scouts Snoopy Flight. from you, Kraig. We also provided CC. I never hear anything about us. Sometimes I wonder if Gold Star Father, 1st Cav 71 to 72 Infantry and Door Gunner, John Harris, we existed. I do know we were Garry Owen and under the 1-7th. I’m disabled sent in a request for a new cap. “Hank, I was at the and wheel chair bound to the house. I appreciate any information you or the reunion this year. In the picture in the paper, I am the one in the white shirt on readers may have pertaining to my unit. I served two tours in Nam 1967 - 1969. the right side of the picture. I met up with COL Mendenhall of the Air Cav Bri- Same unit, HHC, 3rd BDE. Both tours in I Corps, Camp Evans, A Shau Valley. gade. A very nice person, and he gave me an Air Cav Coin. What I am looking I was a crew chief/gunner. First scout birds were OH-13 and got Loch’s. Have for is the Silver Wings Hat. I have one, but it is getting old and would like to lots of photos.” Art remembers some names from his tours: WO Eason, Marty get a couple more. Do you know where I can get them?” John, you are one of Coleman, Chris Brunn, Coleflesh, Raby Johnson, WO Rasmuson. He’d like to many that have requested a replacement “Silver Wings” cap. Unfortunately I hear from anyone serving with his unit. no longer have any. If/when I acquire more I will be in contact and post it here Ray Clark, , sent me a signed copy of his recently as well. Glad you enjoyed the reunion. published book titled, Just Let Me Walk Away: An American Combat Helicopter Frank Darbey, , sent in a request. “Hi, its been a long Pilot in Vietnam. He was an Infantry lieutenant flying Hueys in B-227 from April time since I e-mailed you. I was in country ‘65 and ‘66 and I would like to know 66-April 67, then did a second tour with 25th Infantry Division in 69. Ray broke where I can get a bumper sticker ‘HAPPINESS IS A COLD LZ’? I was part of five Hueys in 66-67, all but one with troops on board. His book went along with the original group in the 545 MP any help is appreciated. Thanks Frank.” Frank me on vacation, a nice beach read. And it was. I zipped thought it so quickly, as was in luck, as the free bumper stickers I have, putting two into the mail the fol- I was in and around a lot of those places and LZ’s mentioned between its covers. lowing day. I have one remaining if anyone is interested. I give it a thumbs-up, recommended read. If interested, it can be purchased at Shirley Haase (sister of SP-5 Donald Grella, A-229th, KIA 1965) wrote asking the website, . There are reviews on Amazon. if I had made reservations or plans to make reservations for the Veteran’s Cruise Ray, thanks for the copy and time-travel to yesteryear. in November. I remember receiving information (March) about the event from I made reference at the top of this page to the “story” by CWO Joe Salomone, Princess Cruise Line as I have sailed with them several times over the past few 1-9th Recon, published in the July/August column. It sure generated a lot of years, unrelated to any veteran event, but I’m on their mailing list. I didn’t have mail despite my disclaimer about the account: “Take it with a grain of salt as interest in the trip so I actually forgot about it. Shirley’s inquiry reminded me those 1-9th troopers can be sort of ‘colorful’, I couldn’t verify any of it. You that our own Joe Galloway is one of the guest lecturers. Here’s what I know of may find it entertaining or interesting or perhaps both.” I made that statement the event as some of you may have interest. for a reason. About 95% of those responding agree it was, to be polite, a yarn, a The sailing will raise funds for two respected veterans’ organizations - Vietnam good one, and interesting. Some removed the fluff and stated it’s just plain BS. Veterans Memorial Fund Inc. and Operation Home Front Inc. It’s expected to One reader wrote, “I viewed it as, just what was stated, “A STORY” descriptive generate $1 million for the two charities. of battle in RVN with more of a religious conclusion/belief than a historical Princess President and CEO Alan Buckelew, a Vietnam veteran, will be on account. The guy should have omitted reference to the book and “that LZ” (he board to host the cruise. He will be joined by special guests Admiral Mullen, never named) but it was still just a story with a probable well intended ending.” former Army Chief of Staff General George Casey (Ret.), former Air Force Chief I do apologize of anyone was offended by the “story”. of Staff General Norton Schwartz (Ret.), and former Chief of Naval Operations Okay. Let’s share something lighter. COL Keith M. Nightingale is a retired Admiral Gary Roughead (Ret.), who will each host military branch gatherings Army Colonel who served two tours in Vietnam with Airborne and Ranger throughout the voyage. (American and Vietnamese) units. He commanded airborne battalions in both In addition, guest lecturers on the cruise will include: Award-winning journalist the 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment and the 82nd Airborne Division. He later and decorated combat correspondent Joe Galloway. If you’re reading the SABER, commanded both the 1-75th Rangers and the 1st Ranger Training Brigade. I’ve I don’t need to go any further, you know Joe. never met the Colonel, but we have exchanged emails. He is the author of The Speaker and veterans’ advocate Justin Constantine. Constantine joined the U.S. Sound that Binds that you are about to read. For those of us who served in Viet- Marine Corps in 1998 after graduating from law school. He left active duty in nam as infantrymen, helicopter pilots, door gunners, forward observers attached 2004, but two years later, as a Marine Reservist, volunteered for deployment to to infantry units, or combat medics it will bring back vivid memories. Iraq. While on a routine patrol, he was seriously wounded - shot in the head by The Sound that Binds. “Unique to all that served in Vietnam is the UH1H a . Thanks to the heroic efforts of a young Navy Corpsman and his own helicopter. It was both devil and angel and it served as both extremely well. warrior spirit, Constantine is alive today and is a highly sought-after speaker and Whether a LRRP, US or RVN soldier or civilian, whether, NVA, VC, Allied or veteran’s advocate, spreading a message of awareness, courage and resiliency. civilian, it provided a sound and sense that lives with us all today. It is the one Also speaking is the soldier who sent the message ending World War II in sound that immediately clears the clouds of time and freshens the forgotten images Europe, Gregory Melikian. As a young sergeant with the Supreme Headquarters within our mind. It will be the sound track of our last moments on earth. It was Allied Expeditionary Forces staff headquartered in France in 1945, Melikian a simple machine-a single engine, a single blade and four man crew-yet like the was a telegraph operator under command of General Dwight D. Eisenhower. Model T, it transformed us all and performed tasks the engineers and designers At 3:30 p.m. on May 7, 1945, it was Melikian who was chosen to announce the never imagined. For soldiers, it was the worst and best of friends but it was the unconditional surrender of Germany and the end of WWII in Europe. one binding material in a tapestry of a war of many pieces. Princess Cruises will conduct activities to recognize Vietnam Veterans and The smell was always hot, filled with diesel fumes, sharp drafts accentuated their families for their service, valor and sacrifice throughout the sailing. They by gritty sand, laterite, and anxious vibrations. It always held the spell of the keep you busy if you so desire. unknown and the anxiety of learning what was next and what might be. It was The four-day Western Caribbean cruise will sail November 5-9, 2013 roundtrip an unavoidable magnet for the heavily laden soldier who donkey-trotted to its from Houston, Texas aboard Caribbean Princess, with a call at Progreso, Mexico. squat shaking shape through the haze and blast of dirt, stepped on the OD skid, The cruise is not restricted to veterans. Passengers will have the opportunity to turned and dropped his ruck on the cool aluminum deck. Reaching inside with honor those who have served in the military as well as active duty military person- his rifle or machine gun, a soldier would grasp a floor ring with a finger as an nel. For more information about the cruise, pricing, etc. call: 1-800-PRINCESS. extra precaution of physics for those moments when the now airborne bird would Shirley, thanks for inquiring. break into a sharp turn revealing all ground or all sky to the helpless riders all Little Sis, Julie Kink shared her AAR of the San Francisco, VHPA reunion, very mindful of the impeding weight on their backs. The relentless weight of July 2013. For those who do not know Julie, and that can’t be many of you, she the ruck combined with the stress of varying motion caused fingers and floor is the sister of KIA pilot, David Kink, she is married to MOH recipient, Mike rings to bind almost as one. Constant was the vibration, smell of hydraulic fluid, Sprayberry. She writes, “The reunion went well. We spent much of the time with flashes of visionary images and the occasional burst of a ground-fed odor-rot- Ed (& Lee) Garr, and John (& Angie) Powell, who run most of the Military His- ting fish, dank swampy heat, cordite or simply the continuous sinuous currents torical Tours trips. The six of us, plus another couple we were with in Vietnam of Vietnam’s weather-cold and driven mist in the Northern monsoon or the wall the last time, were invited to the home of Norman Lloyd, the film maker who of heated humidity in the southern dry season. Blotting it out and shading the did “Fallen But Not Forgotten” about Mike’s MIAs. Beautiful drive across the effect was the constant sound of the single rotating blade as it ate a piece of the Golden Gate Bridge then through Napa Valley. air, struggling to overcome the momentary physics of the weather. We had dinner at the Marine Memorial Club - what a great view. We had “To divert anxiety, a soldier/piece of freight, might reflect on his home away lunch at John’s Grill where the Maltese Falcon was written. I got to meet VHPA Continued on pg. 17 Page 17 saber SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 15th MED/15th FSB/15th BSB Mike Bodnar T e r r y M c C a r l 15th MED Battalion Website. 13010 N. Lakeforest Dr. They are: CPT Richard Russ, Sun City, AZ 85351-3250 sent over, “Mike: I served MSC, Asst. BN S-1, ‘68-’69; (623) 972-4395 with HSC, 15th MED Bat- CPT Paul Kittinger, MSC, [email protected] talion from 11/68-11/69. I Division Medical Supply, http://15thMedAssociation.Com was a 1LT, MSC, the Division ‘69-’70, and CPT Ken Moro, Sanitarian. I worked with the MSC, XO, Charlie Co., ‘68- Preventive Medicine Officer, primarily in water supply, food service sanitation, ’69. If anyone knows even waste disposal, rodent control, mosquito control and malaria control. The mis- their middle initials, that sion was to keep the troops healthy. would help to find them. “I was located at Phouc Vinh, but traveled frequently to Quan Loi and Tay Please contact me if you have Ninh, and to almost all of the Division’s operating LZ’s. MEDEVAC backhauls any information. Thanks.” were my most frequent mode of transportation. Replacement waiting for my orders. I remember checking the bulletin board From Allan E. Jeska, LTC one day, and there was my assignment: 1st Cavalry Division. I knew very little (RET), U.S. Army Special about any of the divisions in VN. I asked the guy standing next to me, whom I Forces, “Hi Mike...I met judged to have had a previous tour in RVN, if he knew anything about the 1st. Corky Walsh yesterday at Cav. He said, ‘All I can tell you is that the Cav is the division that they always his Lowell, Oregon, High 1969 15th MED Change of Command Ceremony send in when nobody else can get the job done. They operate in the crummiest School Reunion. Great guy (LTC Turner to LTC McNaney) on 06/23/69. LTC places and most dangerous conditions-almost as bad as the Marines.’ That really and he was handing out 1st McNaney at left, MG E. B. Roberts, Division raised my spirits! Cav Stetsons to some of his Commander in middle, LTC Turner at right. “The men that I served with in 15th Medical Battalion were the most coura- fellow classmates who sur- geous and admirable people that I ever worked with. I would enjoy hearing from vived Vietnam with the 1st Cav. anyone who was there in the 11/68-11/69 time frame. “After our conversation, one of them mentioned that he had written a book? “In March of 1969, a couple of colonels, I Do you have any knowledge of how I may obtain a copy?” believe from USARV, came up to Phouc Vinh “I ‘Googled’ his name and your attractive Website appeared, so perhaps the to do an inspection, in their nicely starched and data on the book is known? Thank you for the research and your Service.” pressed fatigues. LTC Turner asked me to go I e-mailed Allan that I think the book may be: The Conflict That Was a War; In along on the inspection. LTC Turner was driving Vietnam & At Home, mentioned in the November/December 2012 SABER. the jeep around the camp and I believe we were New 15th MED Association President Corky Walsh has his August 2013 inspecting a Class I (Food Storage) yard. The President’s Message on the Website in the newsletter. visiting colonels, as I recall, were super critical As well, he mentioned, “We all gathered together for dinner on Friday eve- of what they deemed to be poor sanitation, etc. ning at Beef O’Brady’s. We had one member we had not seen in 45 years, Pilot At about 10:00 AM on a bright, sunny day, we Harold Hicks. suddenly heard an extremely loud ‘boom.’ A “I have a lot of pictures that I and my brother-in-law took. I will be putting rocket had landed about fifty feet away from us. together a Mini Reunion with all the pictures I have and any from the members We all rolled out of the jeep onto the ground. who attended. Many of our members flew on MEDEVAC 803 which has been The shrapnel apparently all went over us, and we restored and in flying condition. It was an UH-1D and now it has been restored 1968-1969 outgoing Division Surgeon LTC Turner. Photos and the vehicle were completely unscathed. In as a UH-1H. from Terry McCarl. any case, the visiting colonels suddenly decided “The American Huey 369 did a Vietnam reenactment with three helicopters that they had infinitely more pressing business engaging the VC. I took several pictures and videos of it on both days of the back at HQ, and decided to cut their visit short immediately! show. After the reenactments everyone who had lifetime memberships or paid “In retrospect, what was really humorous was that LTC Turner seemed com- the $100.00 took a fifteen minute ride on either helicopter 369 or 803. pletely unrattled by the occurrence, acting as if it was an everyday happening. “2014 Reunion has been posted on the Website under the pull down menu He and I had a little chuckle after the colonels boarded their aircraft to return Reunions. It will be held in Orlando, Florida from April 2 to 6, 2014. The 2014 to Long Binh. That was the only time that I remember incoming at Phouc Vinh Registration Form has been drafted and will be completed when Reunion Chair- during the daytime. I have often thought that if it had to happen, it couldn’t have man sets up final items for the Reunion. When that happens it will be posted on been at a better time!” the Website and e-mailed and snail mailed to the membership. “One of my tasks was to conduct the testing (urine) of the troops to determine “The 2014 Reunion will be at Renaissance Orlando Airport Hotel, 5445 Forbes if they were taking the malaria prevention pills. In about July of 1969, testing Place Orlando, FL 32812. Telephones – (407) 240-1000, Toll-Free: (888) 236- became a very hot topic because of huge numbers of malaria cases. I believe 2427. If calling by phone reference MEDEVAC Reunion 2014 to get our rate that we tested each of the companies in the Cav combat battalions. Some of the or book online. Book Deluxe at Renaissance Orlando Airport Hotel for $88 per initial units tested as low as ten per cent positive, resulting in tighter supervision night. Deadline to book your reservation is March 3, 2014.” of the pill-taking primarily by NCO’s and Medics. The later units tested were Always remembering our 1st Cav troops on duty around the world; over and about ninety per cent positive. out. “I am looking for a few of my compadres who are not on the FOUND list in the FIRST TEAM! Garryowen, SO THAT OTHERS MAY LIVE

Silver Wings News Ia Drang Fund Update Continued from pg. 16 Continued from pg. 13 from home. The door gunners were usually calm which was emotionally help- of the specific battle locations and provide proof thereof. Proof must include at least ful. Each gun had a C ration fruit can at the ammo box clip entrance to the feed birth certificate(s) or legal adoption certificate(s) showing father or grandfather’s mechanism of the machine gun. The gun had a large circular aiming sight unlike chain of relationship to the applicant, a copy of the Ia Drang Battle survivor’s the ground pounder version. That had the advantage of being able to fix on targets DD Form 214 and positive evidence of the battle participant’s assignment to a from the air considerably further than normal ground acquisition. Pears, apricots, qualifying unit during a specified battle. Such evidence may include citations for apple sauce or fruit cocktail, it all worked. Fruit cans had just the right width to awards earned in the battles, signed statements from battlefield leader(s), extracts smoothly feed the belt into the gun which was always a good thing. Some gun- of official personnel records, copies of morning reports, copies of articles about ners carried a large oil can much like old locomotive engineers to squeeze on the the specific battles naming sponsor, extracts from books which name sponsor as barrel to keep it cool. Usually this was accompanied by a large OD towel or a a battle participant and/or copies of letters to family/friends about the specific khaki wound pack bandage to allow a rubdown without a burned hand. Under battles. Male recipients must provide proof of registration with the Selective the gunners seat was usually a small dairy-box filled with extra ammo boxes, Service System if 18 years of age. smoke grenades, water, flare pistol, C rats and a couple of well-worn paperbacks. A listing of eligible units and battles is available from the Association Head- The gun itself might be attached to the roof of the helicopter with a bungi cord quarters in Copperas Cove or from the Foundation’s web page at . the pintle and fire it manually while standing on the skid with only the thinnest Donations to the Ia Drang Scholarship Fund are gratefully accepted and are of connectivity to the bird. These were people you wanted near you-particularly invested and managed by the Foundation Trustees to support this program. on extractions. To obtain an application, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the “The pilots were more mysterious. You only saw parts of them as they labored Foundation of the 1st Cavalry Division Association, 302 N. Main St., Copperas behind the armored seats. An arm, a helmeted head and the occasional fingered Cove, TX 76522-1703 or print one from our web page at . For additional information call (254) 547-6537 or send an side panels covered their outside legs-an advantage the passenger did not enjoy. e-mail message to . Sometimes, a face, shielded behind helmeted sunshades, would turn around to impart a question with a glance or display a sense of anxiety with large white- Directors Chair circled eyes-this was not a welcoming look as the sounds of external issues fought Continued from pg. 1 to override the sounds of mechanics in flight. Yet, as a whole, the pilots got you ACR. CSM (Ret) Don Horn was the Honorary Sergeant Major of the 11th ACR there, took you back and kept you maintained. You never remembered names, if and came to make a visit to the Regiment and I was the current CSM. Don was at all you knew them, but you always remembered the ride and the sound.” a great guy who also served with the First Team in Korea on the DMZ with the There is much more to be read, but space will not permit me to share it all. 9th Cavalry and served two tours as the 11th ACR CSM in Vietnam. I’ll miss Before I end this sortie I’d like to acknowledge messages from Art Tetreault and seeing him walking his dog and getting to visit with him. Allons Don! Ron David. I tried several time returning the calls. You guys must be out playing Our 2014 Reunion planning is going well and I think the Sheridan’s Cavalry Bingo a lot? Anyway, call back. Chapter is ready to get it done. They have helped Michelle in the Souvenir Shop Veterans Day in DC is just around the corner. Why not make plans for a three- to design a great Reunion T-shirt. When the order form comes up make sure to day weekend. Lot’s to see and do in and around the AO. I plan to attend once pre-order your shirt to ensure that you get one in the right size. again. Until next time, “Clear right!” Hank. That’s enough for now. Stay safe and enjoy the fall weather. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 18 20th and 79th Artillery Regiment News While searching for some other information I checked my emails and found Bruce Wilder this one that just came. It was addressed to Hank Llewellyn, columnist for the 1308 Blue Sky Ln Silver Wings of the CAV, and to me as cc addressee. With Hank’s concurrence Kingsport, TN 37664-3896 (423) 245-6116 I have included the email here because it speaks volumes about the connections [email protected] we have as members of such a great Division and the legacy we have made and www.araassociation.com continue to make with our service and support of our serving soldiers today. It also speaks to me in my role as a retired Lutheran Minister and Chaplain for the You will notice a new address in Kingsport. Patti and I finally took the big ARA Association. step and sold our house and bought into the condo style of living. Let someone “Hank, this is Kraig Morris. How are you and it has been awhile. How are else do the outside work and I can turn the key and leave without worry of any you and your family? I have awesome news as I start a new job on the 16th after yard maintenance. being laid off for over a year and I graduate from the seminary in December. My Last month we reduced our bucket list in conjunction with our grandson’s wed- daughter (PFC Hannah Morris) joined the Pennsylvania Army National Guard ding on Sifnos Island, Greece. We flew to Heathrow London, Dublin, toured in a (in an infantry battalion in the Stryker Brigade) last fall (senior in H.S.) and is rental car for four days, flew to Edinburg, toured Scotland, Wales, the Cotswolds, in Basic at Fort Sill right now. I just realized, (The SABER) just arrived and I on to Athens, Sifnos, Milos, Santorini, Frankfurt, London, and back home after saw that Mr. Bruce Wilder does the 20th and 79th FA Regiments News and my a total of three weeks. Quite a change from our ordinary travel – it was beautiful daughter is in Charlie Battery 1-79 FA BN at Fort Sill. (How cool is that?) I also country everywhere we looked and the people were the most hospitable! recently learned that the uncle I was named (middle name) for (now deceased), Once back in the states we were brought SGT Michael Shedlock, was in Service Battery 667th FA BN and was at Ramagen back down to earth and now it is time for the Bridge. How is my old Medevac unit doing in the Cav at present and I would like next issue. I received an email from Dennis to learn more of the CAV aviation assets from WW2, Korea, Vietnam (please)? Webster that we had lost another ARA First It is amazing how many connections I am having to the 1st CAV (cool) and am Team member, LTC Paul Riley, C Battery, learning all this family and military history. I also wanted to let you know that 2-20, 1965-66. Paul went over with us and if anyone needs prayer please let me know as I enjoy doing that and it helps me participated in the Battle of Ia Drang over LZ in my pursuits to be a VA chaplain one day. I am so proud to be a part of the 1st X-Ray in November 1965. On his second tour CAV family as it is such an honor and a privilege. (Sorry I don’t mean to ramble he commanded the 335th AHC. Later, while and make this all about me). I am just so excited like a kid at Christmas and instructing at CGSC, I had another opportunity when I got my first stripe. Thank You and God Bless, very respectfully, Kraig to serve with Paul when he came through as Morris. P.S. I don’t mean to be a bother but my 1st CDA sticker on my truck is a student. I will always remember his smile in bad shape and may I please have one? Thank You.” as it could light a room when he entered. Paul Thank you, Kraig. I’ll find a First Cav bumper sticker for your truck. I have was born in Troy, New York. Graduated Siena sent you an email showing just how connected we really are. College where he was the ROTC Cadet Corps Now, I’d like to ask for your help in publicizing the next reunion to be held Commander. Paul received his MBA from the at Branson, Missouri, on June 18-22, 2014. We have tried our best to move the University of Oklahoma in 1974. After retire- reunion sires around the United States to give more people the opportunity to at- ment at Fort Sill in July 1978, Paul worked tend without having to travel great distances. In 2008 we were at Ozark, Alabama LTC Paul Riley for Halliburton in Duncan, Oklahoma as an which favored the Southeast members; 2009 we assembled at Midland, Texas accountant until 1993. Some of Paul’s awards which accommodated the Southwest members; 2010 saw us met at Bozeman, include the Master Aviator Badge, Distinguished Flying Cross, 2 Bronze Stars, Montana catering more to the Midwest and some Northwest (had a lot to do with Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, the ARCOM, and the Republic of Vietnam finding a host and that happened to be the spot); 2011 Charleston, South Carolina Cross of Gallantry with Gold Star. Paul was preceded in death by Beverly Deso called us to our Artillery Heritage at Fort Sumter where the first shots were fired Riley, his wife of 56 years. He is survived by daughter, Maureen, and son, Kevin. in the Civil War, which again covered the Southeast members; 2012 had us go- LTC Riley was buried with full military honors at Fort Sill National Cemetery, ing almost as far as we could without going all the way to Alaska, and that was Elgin, Oklahoma, which is five miles north of Lawton. Portland, Oregon, this time solidly aiming for the West Coast and Northwest On August 3, Jena Melancon posted on ARA Facebook that her father BG members; and this year we thought moving toward the Northeast would permit Steven L. Melancon had died on August 2 at his home in Brookhaven, Missis- some of our East Coast and Northeast members could find it easier coming to sippi. BG Melancon served in two of the ARA units in Vietnam – B/2-20 (1st Hershey, Pennsylvania. So you see, some thought went into the planning of the CAV) and B/4-77 (101st ABN) 1967-68. Steve’s assignments included six years reunion locations. This year it paid off in great dividends. We had fifteen first- of battery command and operations officer of a mechanized infantry battalion, time members attend the reunion. Now, as a clergy who started a new mission and Headquarters, Deptartment of Army Staff in the Pentagon. He was an active church, fifteen people with spouses is a great increase and it also warms the heart member of the ARA Association and supported our new direction and programs, to know that they came, but even more, that they had a great time being there! and was always there as a sounding board when we debated and discussed plans So here is the plan – we chose Branson because it has much to offer. There is for the future. GEN Melancon received his BA from the University of Nebraska so much to do and see, and it is a great place to take ones family. So since we and his law degree from the University of Mississippi. He practiced law from moved back toward the center of the states, we should push to get members from 1979 to 1988 in Brookhaven and served a term in the Mississippi House of Rep- all over to make it this time. Branson favors only those who live in less than a resentatives. He was a Veterans Service Officer and in 2001, President Bush day’s drive, but makes it easier on anyone of us – whether it is North, East, South, appointed him as the Mississippi State Director for the Selective Service System or West. This could be our largest gathering ever. Let us all make a concerted where he served until July 2013. He was inducted into the Field Artillery Officer effort to contact our friends, especially those who have never made a reunion. Candidate School Hall of Fame in 1995. He was a past president of the Lincoln Better still, let us get those who have never joined the Association to become County Bar Association. His awards and decorations include the Senior Army new members and renew auld acquaintances in Branson. Also, there are many Aviator Badge, two Legion of Merit Medals, two Bronze Stars, 25 Air Medals, one time-shares in Branson where members who have a time-share could plan ahead with “V” for Valor, and two ARCOMs. GEN Melancon is survived by his wife with a reservation for the week of the reunion or do an exchange for one. There of 48 years, Jan Melancon, daughter Jena Melancon, and son Louis Melancon. are numerous RV campgrounds nearby within short driving times to the shows His memorial service was conducted August 6, 2013 at First United Methodist for those who desire to travel via motor home. Church in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Calvin Hyatt notified me with another person’s name who he has contacted May God bless each of these families and continue to strengthen them each about joining and attending reunions. We need to do the same with our friends day with his love and peace. from our days in ARA. For our 2014 reunion, let us all bring a friend! That could The mail concerning the rescue of Hubert H. Hunnicutt on April 18, 1968 put us over 150 members plus spouses. What a day that would be. Remember to seems to have given us sufficient information to enable him to personally thank wear your CAV hat or pin when going out – you never know who will stop and the crew members who saved his life. Thanks to all of you who responded so speak. It just might be a member of your unit from a different time period. rapidly with your account of the mission and names to go with it. “Breaking right!”

LRRP/Ranger News the peak of the 5,000 foot-high Dong Re Lao Mountain, dubbed Signal Hill by Continued from pg. 15 the division, on the eastern side of the A Shau, approximately five kilometers Signal Hill and the company TOC would not be in there.” northeast of A Loui Airfield. It was to establish a radio relay site for the 1st Cav “I also have yet to find anything referring to April 23, 1967, the day that I battalions sweeping the valley floor below. The platoon consisted of a platoon was hit in the Vinh Thanh Valley. I am beginning to doubt that there is anything leader and a platoon sergeant, and 30 LRRPs organized into five six-man teams. about it. Regards, Bill” The LRRPs generally operated in individual teams, but for this mission they would You might remember the story in the September-October 2012 issue of the operate as a platoon. The unit was selected for this mission because it required SABER on the fateful mission of LRRP Team 1, the first 1st Cav LRRP team to a specially trained unit that could rappel from helicopters, clear a landing zone suffer serious casualties in the Vietnam War. Bill was a member of that team. with explosives, and hold a position well beyond the range of artillery support. The team was operating in the northern Vinh Thanh Valley, in the vicinity of The LRRPs would be accompanied by combat engineers from the 8th Engineer Kan Nak, approximately 15 kilometers north of An Khe in far western Binh Battalion and radiomen from the 13th Signal Battalion. Dinh Province, when at the break of dawn on April 23rd, it was attacked by a Five helicopters – one a command and control ship, from Bravo/227th Avia- large NVA unit, possibly a reinforced company, and the team members found tion Battalion (Assault Helicopter), and two escort gunships from Delta/227th, themselves in the fight of their lives. The team managed to fight off the enemy would provide transportation for the LRRPs and the others. The spot for the troops long enough for the 1st Cav helicopters from An Khe to arrive on site and relay site on the mountaintop was a muddy old bomb crater surrounded by 50 pull them out. Bill was badly wounded, as were Art Guerrero and Geoff Koper. foot high trees. David Ives was killed. John Simones, team leader, and Doug Fletcher, assistant No sooner had the mission kicked-off on the morning of April 19th, than tragedy team leader, survived relatively unscathed. struck. The lead helicopter of the assault force was unable to maintain a position What Bill was referring to in the first part of his email, was of course the over the site and was forced to make a “go around.” The second ship, with five Battle of Signal Hill in the A Shau Valley, April 20-21, 1968. The A Shau was LRRPs onboard, hovered 100 feet above the peak while SGT Larry Curtis, team located along the Laotian border in northwestern South Vietnam, approximately leader from Indianapolis, Indiana, and CPL Bill Hand, assistant team leader from 30 kilometers southwest of the U.S. Marines Combat Base at Khe Sanh. The Perry, Georgia, climbed onto the skids and started to rappel down ropes. Sud- LRRP/Ranger platoon at Camp Evans was given the job of air assaulting onto denly the helicopter lost lift and SGT Curtis and CPL Hand fell down through Continued on pg. 19 Page 19 saber SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 82nd FA News 82nd FA News: I hope ev- the Vietnam War on 8-10-72. “Can and Will” eryone is having a wonderful 5th Bn., 82nd FA: The 5-82nd FA was initially activated on 1 July ’60, in Korea, Dan Gillotti fall. It has been fun-filled and under the 1st Cavalry Division. I joined the Black Dragons there in July ’60 as 4204 Berkeley Drive action-packed from my view- the unit was being filled with personnel from other units and from the 1st Cav Sheffield Village, OH 44054-2916 point. I sure am not looking Replacement Depot. The 5-82nd FA was inactivated on 1 July 1965, and was re- (440) 934-1750 forward to another cold win- designated as Btry, E, 82nd FA, and joined the 1st Cavalry Division as an Aerial [email protected] ter here on Lake Erie. Observation/Aviation Battery to provide aerial observation for the DIVARTY. 82nd FA Bn., WWII: We The 5-82nd FA was re-activated at Fort Bliss, Texas in 2005, and has had several were notified about the death of 1SG (Ret.) Robert W. Starks, age 95, on 24 tours in Iraq and one tour in Afghanistan. The Army will be reducing the size of May ’13, who began his service with A Battery, 82nd Field Artillery in 1936 and the 1st Cavalry Division by inactivating the 4th BCT sometime within the next served with the 61st FA beginning in 1940 and through World War II. He was year. Our beloved 5th Battalion, 82nd FA will be put back into mothballs again awarded the for meritorious achievement in connection with until another conflict arises. military operations against the enemy at Leyte Province, Philippine Islands. He While we are on the subject also received a World War II Victory Medal. He retired from the U.S. Army in of the 5-82nd FA, I was clean- 1960, and worked for U.S. Civil Service until his retirement in 1983. He married ing out some papers and docu- Anna Tripeny Starks on December 23, 1950. Condolences and prayers go out to ments I’ve accumulated and his family, and may he rest in peace. found a letter from Pasquale (Pat) Antonellis he sent me in November ’12. Pat wrote, “My name is Pat Antonellis and I served as an Artillery Surveyor with HHB, 5-82nd FA. I was stationed at Camp Pelham, Korea from March ’63 ~ March ’64. The enclosed photo was taken as my tour of duty ended and I was on my way to the Replacement Depot. As I recall, I left Inchon on the Troop Ship “USS Gen. Billy Mitchell” and 18 days later HHB, 3-82nd FA, Ft Devens, 1965 arrived at the Oakland Army Pat Antonellis, HHB, 5-82nd FA, 1964 Terminal. My wife and I live 3rd Bn., 82nd FA: I would like to take this opportunity to thank my old friend on the Monterey Peninsula Les Hines from the Americal Division Veterans Association. Les sent me a near the Defense Language Institute, Naval Post-Graduate School, and the former DVD made by Ron Titus who found a copy of the 196th Light Infantry Brigade Fort Ord. The 1st Cavalry Division lapel pin is readily recognizable in this area. (LIB) 1965 Year Book from Fort Devens, Massachusetts. The pictures he sent Best wishes for a very Happy Thanksgiving. Pat Antonellis. Well Pat, I have were of the 3-82nd FA when it was re-activated at Fort Devens in 1965 as part to apologize for misplacing your letter. I want to wish you and your family a of the 196th LIB. The 196th LIB deployed to Vietnam in August ’66, and later Happy 2013 Thanksgiving. Pat can be reached at 1018 Pacific Grove Lane #2, became part of the Americal Division in February ’69. And as I’ve written pre- Pacific Grove, CA 93950. I say better late than never ‘ol Trooper! BTW, I hope viously, B/3-82nd FA fired the last rounds by a US Army Field Artillery unit in you still look as young as you did nearly 50 years ago! We have sad news to report as Black Dragon SIX writes, “Soldiers, Families, and Friends we are sad to report the Black Dragon Battalion suffered a loss yesterday evening at 7:30 pm. SPC Tyler Pimpis from Golf Company was involved in a traffic accident in the Killeen area, and he did not survive. While local authorities continue their investigation we turn our attention to his family and friends who are affected the most by his untimely passing. Please keep them and him in your thoughts and prayers. SPC Pimpis joined us last year after he completed a combat tour in Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. For those Soldiers who wish to talk to someone about this, the battalion has four grief counselors available. As we get more information about this tragedy and about any ceremonies we will ensure everyone is informed. Signed, LTC William T. Johnson and CSM Lawrence Maynard. Our heart-felt condolences go out to the 3-82nd FA, Ft Devens 1965, LTC Grinnell Commanding family of SPC Pimpis. May he rest in peace. End of Mission ~ Out! LRRP/Ranger News enemy units, disrupting enemy operations, and directing artillery and air power Continued from pg. 18 at targets of opportunity. the jungle canopy to the ground below. The helicopter came crashing down On a different note, I’m sad to report that Ron Christopher (1966-67) recently behind them. Because of the thinner air at that altitude, the helicopter engine lost his youngest son, Bruce, to kidney disease. Bruce died on July 15, 2013 at had less oxygen for power and the helicopter pilot and co-pilot were unable to Tampa General Hospital. Bruce loved to play golf and bass fish with his father maintain lift. Ron who was one of the original members of the LRRP Detachment with Cap- SGT Curtis and CPL Hand attempted to get out of the way of the falling heli- tain Jim James and is a frequent contributor to the LRPP/Ranger newsletter and copter as best they could but SGT Curtis got pinned under a skid as the helicopter SABER. hit the ground and rolled onto him. The helicopter crew members and remaining Also, we received word from Anne Hagerty Oberg, Pinconning, Michigan, that LRRPs on board were all knocked unconscious. SGT Curtis suffered a serious her brother Joseph H. Hagerty (1968- head injury and would spend the next two days drifting in and out of conscious- 69) passed away on August 7, 2013. ness. Medical evacuation of the injured was not possible until an LZ could be Joe served with the LRRP/Ranger cut out of the jungle and the area could be made secure of any enemy soldiers. unit in the Phuoc Vinh area and was The LRRPs on board the remaining helicopters, and the accompanying combat awarded a number of medals for his engineers and radiomen, were able to rappel to the ground. They immediately service, including a Silver Star, several established a defensive perimeter and started cutting away the jungle trees for Bronze Stars with “V” for valor, and a an LZ. But the insertion did not go unnoticed by the NVA soldiers on the valley Purple Heart. Joe was a combat medic floor below. and served two tours of duty in Korea By noon on April 20th, the enemy soldiers had climbed up the mountain and before serving with the LRRP/Rangers reached the peak. Using the noise of the chain saws and the jungle debris from in Vietnam. If you would like to contact the clearing operation to mask their approach, they surrounded the makeshift LZ Anne, or Joe’s son, Ryan, their email and attacked the LRRPs and the others. SP-4 Richard Turbitt, Jr. from Waukegan, addresses are , and , respec- Noto from St. Louis, Missouri, and combat engineer PFC James MacManus tively. from Anaheim, California were shot and killed. The remaining LRRPs and the Veterans Day 2013 will be here others quickly counterattacked the NVA and tightened the perimeter. By late before we know it. The 1st Cavalry afternoon, a functional LZ large enough to accommodate a single helicopter was Division Association, of course, will finally cleared and the rest of the LRRP platoon from Camp Evans, along with be hosting a hospitality suite and gift ammunition, water, and medical supplies was brought in. shop from November 8-11, 2013 at the At one point in the battle, an NVA soldier hiding in the jungle underbrush, Crowne Plaza Washington National mistook a Montagnard scout assigned to the LRRPs, named Dish, to be a fellow Airport Hotel, in Crystal City (Arling- NVA soldier and called out to him, revealing his position. The enemy soldier Joseph Hagerty, LRRP-Ranger, Phuoc ton), Virginia, just across the Potomac was summarily shot and killed by Dish and SGT Doug Parkinson, from Bay- Vinh, 1968 River from the nation’s capital. It will side, California. Early on the morning of April 21st, the wounded were finally also be hosting the 5th Annual Veterans medevaced back to Camp Evans. Day Dinner on the evening of November 11th at the hotel. Space for the din- The LRRPs continued to provide security for Signal Hill for another three ner will likely be limited, so be sure to get your tickets early and enjoy a great weeks before they were relieved by another unit of the 1st Cav. Then they re- dinner in the company of fellow 1st Cav troopers. See you on Veterans Day in turned to Camp Evans where they resumed their normal duties of carrying out Washington, DC. long range patrols in enemy areas for the purposes of gathering intelligence on RANGERS LEAD THE WAY. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 20 ENGINEER News Texas Reunion 2013: I opened Coral Florida as the widow of Fred and keep her in Jesse Crimm my conversation with Tony Vil- our thoughts. So in respect of all, here is Fred. 4445 Silverwood Ln. Our adopted son, William Lee and his wife Mary Jacksonville, FL 32207-6241 lanueva with my customary joke (904) 737-6172 about California. With a straight graced the 8th Engineers by taking a seat at our table. [email protected] face and droll wit I asked “Tony, Turns out that William was doing “radio research” correct me if I’m wrong. I’ve which means intercepting NVA and VC signals. He never been to California but I have heard from reliable sources that everyone would have told us more along those lines but did there is either nude or on drugs. Is that true?” With an equally straight face and not bring his pistol to shoot us afterwards. William the beginning of a smile, Tony responded that he had heard the same but since he forsook the stupor of the signal corps eventually and lived in San Pedro, where the ghetto meets the sea, he had only seen uncollected sobered up by joining the combat engineers in the garbage in his experience. Tony elaborated on his RVN experiences stating that Georgia National Guard. From there, he latched onto his 8th Engineer time in 1968-69 took place out of Camp Evans, another example us 8th Engineer types. (Funny. I did just the opposite Fred Betteridge In Cam- of the ghetto meeting the sea. While attached to the 2-12, Tony had a variety of going from engineer to signal. But who can account bodia. river cruises into the scenic bombed-out areas, and flew with a guy who got the for taste?) D.F.C. for extracting GI’s from mine fields. The name Charlie Love came up, the Under the theory that everybody likes to see their name in print, may I present same Charlie Love who decorated these pages a few issues back. Small world. David Ciosek. David showed up at the golf tournament, shot a 106 and disap- Of all things, Tony was replaced by Rick Van Deurzen who then sat down at the peared or at least seemed to disappear. I had to leave on Friday so if anyone has same table in Texas. Small world. Thanks for the good humor Tony. See you an update or subsequent development please advise this writer. David did let slip again in Chicago or hell whichever comes first. that he had a long career in railroading. That means that he and Bob Drenth need Fast on the heels of Villanueva in 2013 as he was in 1969, Rick Van Deurzen to get in touch. or vice versa spoke up to lay claim to POB 17745 in Munds Park Arizona, 86017. In another Then we have Richard Eckhardt of Moncks Corner, South Carolina who al- case of small world, the name Charlie Love entered the conversation along with most drove the whole way on his beloved Case 450. What better way to spend a the vacation town delights of Quan Loy. Rick presented the engineer table with sunny afternoon in RVN than pushing up or digging out piles of dirt? Actually, a map of RVN that he had saved. Making his presentation authentic, our atten- Richard drives an 18 wheeler and has logged some four million miles. Richard tion was drawn to the embedded dirt still impregnating the map after forty-four met his wife Iris during a refuel stop in the middle of nowhere somewhere. It’s years. It was sorta nice to see where we had been airlifted all those times. We just another way to spend several sunny afternoons with the loves of his life, Iris were blind to such things as grid coordinates at the time. Rick is a hat collector and diesel. Richard preferred the Case for its one lift capability as opposed to and will show you his mounds of the same next time you get by Munds, Arizona. the Cat D6 requiring two if not three lifts. Richard wishes to honor J.B. Ladd Rick recalls John Burney and Mark Piasecki and sends them his regards. How of Kentucky, Peter Cheeks of Louisiana, and Vanderbrink of Iowa. (We might about a phone call among you three guys? Use the company phone, conference mention that Vanderbrink saved a buddy at LZ Lorry and got a Bronze Star for call button. Rick also submitted a couple of “then and now” pictures of his it). As well, O’Daniel of the HHC motor pool, Marquez the 1SG, and Crank the great buddy Dave Paddock. Also remembered are Zapata, Epps and Sheeley Ops SGT remain constant in the memory of Eckhardt. (deceased). Walking up to say hello, Mark Dockter from the QM Corps. Mark was in the Engineer section and the water man for Desert Storm and Iraq. We got another hello from James Rominger a SGM of the 8th Engineers, but also stuck with artillery assignments. His best work was to install the amphitheater at Valley Forge. James wishes to honor Chester Southwood. The small world continues. Phillip Blevins of Olive Hill, Kentucky dropped by and happened to mention that Gar- Paddock and Van Deurzen, then and now. mong and Betterridge were among the The Case 450 people he knew in RVN during 70-71. Most everybody’s a gunslinger out Texas way. So when Harold Givens strode Phillip is best known for not hanging into the room we gave him wide berth. That is until he confessed to being a party his legs off the edge of a Huey. to his wife’s quilt making. It seems that out there in Bellville Texas a group of To round out the folks make Quilts of Honor for our heroes. Now that’s an idea you can wrap stories, I will let around yourself. Harold also wants to honor Pardo and SGT Strom from their the following pic- shared experiences during the 70-71 year in RVN. Most of Harold’s engineering tures submitted by was done out of FSB Mace. For others of you that share these memories, contact Scott Smith speak Harold at for themselves. In I don’t want to water down a my notes I have the good story but Larry Greidanus names LT McDaniel, almost shed an ocean of tears LT Garbrick, Ben when he saw a picture of his first Bowman, and Mike love, the 100/gal/hr Urderlator Topiea on the same Fresh Water System. It seems page as my Smith SGM Salazar and LTC Broumas that Larry during 68-69 was in notes. Hope I got the the S-4 section of HHC, operat- sequence right. If not, your names are honored in spirit. Scott promises to send ing out of Phouc Vinh. So for all his picture collection to the CAV museum. The rest of us should do the same. you infantry guys that had a long Well, that’s all the exciting news I have from Texas. If you have more, or if I drink on a hot day at an unknown missed somebody, send the news to me. Next issue, thumb drive permitting, we LZ, you can thank Larry. And for will have a trip to Hanoi. That’s not a typo. I did say Hanoi. Stick around. those of you that thought about a swim, shame on you and your children’s children to the eighth generation. Larry also was a sling A Quilt of Honor. out guy and had a few stories to tell about getting zapped with static electricity. That’s a lesson you only need to learn once, but folks from Auburn Washington sometimes get a little stubborn and learn twice. In another case of small world, Larry and Louie Warren bumped into each other after forty years absence. Larry honors Greer and Reyes his fel- low water point operators who were KIA. Thanks Larry for sharing your stories with all of us. With all his joints replaced, Gary Ullom practically danced into the room. He may have jogged in all Doing what we did. #1, #2, #3, #4 the way from Hereford, Arizona. Gary did remind us that Jack Gar- mong did manage to flip a dozer and keep his beer in hand upright. That’s dedication. Gary was also a 1SG during four tours in Germany. That’s insanity. We all thank Gary for being the first writer and com- piler of 8th Engineer documents in The Urderlator this column. Speaking of Jack Garmong, of Longview Texas, he was quick to remind us that he was the one that covered for Fred Betteridge more than one time. In another case of small world, Garmong, Betteridge and Ullom shared the same time and platoon including a side trip to Cambodia. We honor Ann Betteridge of Cape Page 21 saber SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 545th MP COMPANY Sam Reinert 626 ½ South 9th St. Richmond, IN 47374-6232 (765) 962-4627 Phone and FAX [email protected] http://www.545thMpAssn.Com

Greetings Fellow 545th MPs! Several of our younger members have inquired as to the reasoning and history behind our many eye-catching MP Helmet liners. There is a bit of explanation on our website in the Head Gear tab but I will endeavor here to provide a bit more history of the various 545th MP Helmet liners. Sometime between World War I and World War II, when we switched from the old Doughboy Tin Pot to the Dog Face Steel Pot and the M-1, was the first issue of this type of helmet and liner. Initially there were no regulations for the marking of MP helmets so each unit took it upon themselves to mark them as they saw fit. We returned to Japan after the Korean War. CPL Floyd Schuhrke and SP-3 Kuntz on gate duty at Camp Drew, 1956 wearing their 545th black helmet liners (CPL Schuhrke is a member of our association). By the time Vietnam rolled around, Army regulations were pretty specific and all division MP Companies had to have a red stripe. Jim is a member of our As- sociation and is pictured on the right.. And upon return from Vietnam, the 545th still wore the black helmet with the red stripe as seen here above. 545th MP’s getting ready to go on duty at Fort Hood in their black MP helmet liners. David Stout on the left (a member of our association), Mike Tierce in the center, and David Carlson on the right circa 1980. The last picture is yours truly in Viet- nam – Phouc Vinh Some were painted white with black markings and some had their unit patch 1969. painted on the front of the helmet – sometimes between the letters MP, and All variations of sometimes above the letters or on the side of the helmet as seen in the first pic- our helmet liners ture below.. are on display here Others were painted OD with white MP Letters and a white stripe. Later on at the Association they introduced a multicolored stripe to indicate MP units at Corps or Army headquarters, The level. Some Cavalry and Armored unit MPs painted on a Yellow Stripe and the MP Museum at Fort 1st Cavalry Division MPs took it a step further ----- Leonard Wood, the The second picture is of an actual CAV MP helmet worn in Manila towards 1st Cavalry Divi- the end of World War II. sion Museum at Fort Hood and also at Fort Richardson, Alaska in the current 545th Orderly Room. Hope you all enjoyed this little bit of 545th history. THE HICCUP - Health Care Information Committee Report Scott B. Smith During the course of the recent, 833 State Highway 11 highly successful Reunion in Laramie, WY 82070 Killeen, only one question was [email protected] posed to this Committee. The Another Cav MP helmet and liner worn at Manila is shown in picture three. question came from a thoughtful About this time in our unit’s history we began wearing yellow ascots, leggings, member of the Korean War generation: “Are you comfortable that the reunion and gloves which was noticed by GEN Douglas MacArthur, who commented sites have adequate medical coverage?” how sharp the CAV MPs were. Once we arrived in Japan and began our peace One supposes that the concern arose from the fact that at each of the last couple of time duties as law enforcement MPs, we wanted something to let everyone know Reunions, one or more attendees--or spouses--suffered an accident or illness. just who we were (the best damned MP Company in the Pacific Theater). So we First of all, I should frame this response by saying that the Association’s Execu- painted the jeeps and helmet liners CAV yellow as well. tive Director, the host Association Chapter, and the staff of the reunion hotel are very much aware of this concern. They take pains to know the locations of the nearest civilian, Veterans Administration, and military hospitals. And, as added insurance when a Reunion is at Fort Hood, the 1st Cavalry Division ensures that there is medical coverage for events conducted on Fort Hood. In all Reunion locations, the normal first procedure is to dial 911…but, when quicker, private autos and field ambulances (at Fort Hood) have been used by Association staff and other attendees to convey sick or hurt individuals to the nearest medical facility. The 1st Cavalry Division Association takes every possible step to assure the comfort, convenience, safety, and security of all of us who have the ability and good fortune to attend Reunions. The 2014 Reunion in Oak Brook, Illinois, will be no exception. I encourage all of us to take advantage of the opportunity to spend time in the company of our Brothers and Sisters. See you in Illinois! 67th Annual 1st Cavalry Division Association Reunion Chicago-DuPage County, Illinois --- 9-13 July 2014 Oakbrook Hills Marriott Resort, 3500 Midwest Road, Oak Brook , IL Here is PFC Ben Franklin (later KIA in Korea while assigned to the 545th) in Tokyo with a Japanese policeman. Next is CPL Panzi at Camp Drake Japan. Crossed Sabers Chapter Souvenir Shop Norman is a member of our Association. The third picture is CPL Norman Reich P.O. Box 5774 in Japan in 1952. Norm is also a member of our association. Fort Hood, TX 76544-0774 With the start of the Korean conflict, we had to do away with the yellow helmets Phone: 254-532-2075 and liners and jeeps, but we did keep the yellow stripe. These are also the style FAX: 254-532-6490 worn by our Old Timers Honor Guard as shown in the picture on the left.. To view our on-line catalog visit: On the right are 1LT Haskell and CPL Aguilar during the Korean War. MAJ Haskell is a member of our association. Also note “Charlie” the faithful cavalry The Crossed Sabers Chapter Souvenir Shop is a non-profit organization. Net steed! Charlie is now at the MP Museum at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. income is distributed to the Association for application to the Scholarship Program and other ongoing programs as needed, to the Soldier Travel Fund which allows active duty soldiers of the Division to attend away Reunions as guests of the As- sociation, to the 1st Cavalry Division Museum and to fund other activities for the Troopers and families of the 1st Cavalry Division Association. The manager, Michelle Pinhero, accepts telephone orders with payment by MASTERCARD, VISA or DISCOVER credit cards or you can order on-line using credit cards. Printed catalogs are available for $3.00 from the Association, 302 N. Main St., Copperas Cove, TX 76522-1703. Make your check out to 1st Cavalry Division Association. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 22 HQ and Special Troops News Ron Killingsworth Sue and I send the monsoon season of ‘66 we had a typhoon off the coast that came ashore. The 10329 Caddo Lake Rd greetings to all wind was fierce and we got up a couple of times during the night to tie down the Mooringsport, LA 71060- the troopers of sides. Before daylight arrived you could see the stars through the top of the tent. 9057 the 1st CAV from During our forward support operations we normally would be located near an (318) 996-9969 northwest Loui- airstrip to setup a refueling and re-arming supply point. We were usually under [email protected] siana. Hope this the operational control of DISCOM. Then CPT Major Billy J. Stalcup was my finds all of you DISCOM coordinator on several occasions and I later saw him at Fort Lee, Vir- well and enjoying life. Sue and I are off to Colorado Springs, Colorado, to visit ginia, after he was promoted to BG. COL Jonathan R. Burton was the DISCOM the youngest daughter and her family. The S-I-L is a LTC in the Army and was commander during part of my tour in the summer of 1966. Our forward support recently transferred to Peterson Air Force Base with NORAD/NORTHCOM. base usually had a medical platoon from the 15th MED and a platoon or section We hope to see the many interesting things in the area, but mainly we hope to from the 27th Ordinance. The medics seem to always be able to obtain plenty escape the 100+ temperatures in Louisisana. of beer. There was a signal vehicle with radios that you could use to tie into the I am sending a hearty “thank you” to all of those who wrote and emailed me the radio/telephone system and make calls to the states when the action was slow. We past few months. This column cannot continue without your input. The column used a lot of Chinook helicopters and also the flying cranes to sling 155 ammo. this issue is a “hodgepodge” of items and I hope you enjoy it. Our troops worked hard and often pulled 24/7 duty during heavy battles, and the From the Killeen Daily Herald: “At 45, Rabbi Karyn Berger decided to join class III section worked hard with the fuel supply points refueling helicopters. the Army again. ‘I had to fight to get here,’ she said, adding she was bumping I have had some contact with Carl Warnick, Russellville, Arkansas, who went up against the military’s age requirements. ‘I really had to choose to be here, over with the division in ‘65. He was a truck driver in the 15th S&S Battalion. and every day I wake up and I (think), ‘I get to run (physical training) and to be He sent me a picture of 1SG Robert Knight taken just before he passed away.” a Chaplain soldier.’ CPT Berger originally joined the Army in 1983, where her William would be glad to hear from any troopers who served with him or in the final rank was a 2LT. She rejoined two years ago as a Chaplain for 2nd Bat- unit at that time. He took lots of pictures and sent me many of them. They were talion, 20th Field Artillery Regiment, 41st Fires Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. black and white and small and most were unusable for printing in the SABER since Berger, who is the only female active-duty rabbi at Fort Hood, and one of only they were so small. two active-duty female rabbis in the Army, said she knew she wanted to be a William’s story rabbi since before she could talk and finally started going through the process shows how much when she was 36. ‘It’s huge,’ she said. ‘No matter what I do, I’m making his- goes on behind the tory. If I get it right, I’m making history. If I get it wrong, I’m making history. scenes in combat Nobody is ever going to do what I do.’” Congratulations Chaplain Berger! First operations. After Team! Perhaps this article will encourage some of the Chaplains and Chaplain all, where do the assistants to write to me. infantry think all Richard Wadleigh, formerly with the 15th those meals, sup- S&S Battalion at FSB Buttons, Jul ‘69-Jun plies, ammo, and ‘70, sent me a picture of his platoon’s orderly fuel came from? room. There was more about Richard’s Thanks William, tour with the CAV in the May/Jun 2013 and hope to see SABER, which you can access on-line you at a reunion Roy Rogers visits troops in RVN on Thanksgiving Day 1966 through the Association’s web page at sometime. . Richard is interested in I received sev- hearing from anyone on FSB Buttons dur- eral emails from Richard Rooker who served with the 1st Cavalry Division HQ ing this period, or anyone who served with in the G3 section from ‘70-‘71, at Phuoc Vinh. Richard has written a book about the 15th S&S Battalion. Richard wrote that his service with the CAV at the insistence of his children. I read his book and the 15 S&S Battalion was part of DISCOM enjoyed it. Richard worked with war planning and also was a classified docu- and is now the 115th Support Battalion ment carrier between Division HQ (forward) and the many LZ’s and Fire bases. and still has the same unit crest. You can He sent me some nice pictures to add to my growing collection. Richard was reach Richard at . drafted after college and was lucky enough to get an early drop out of ‘Nam Received an email from Kenton Krohlow and out of the Army. If you knew or served with Richard, you can reach him at who said, “I was as- . signed to HHB DIVARTY in January 68 I also received correspondence from Tom Laffey. Tom said, “My name is Tom then attached to A Troop, D Troop, and Laffey, and I was an Army musician, coronet player (02B20 - SP/5) in the 1st HHT Troop of the 1- 9th CAV where I Cavalry Division (Airmobile) Skytrooper Band (HHC and Band, Support Com- 15th S&S Bn 2nd Fwd Support Plt at worked as a forward observer in the field mand) from Aug ‘67 to Aug ‘68. From FSB Buttons Jan 70 and worked clearing fire missions while at Feb ‘68 to Aug ‘68, I also served as the HHT. I served with LT Hanson and CPT $*&^#&$^+#! idiot who played ‘First Young. SGT Rice was our section sergeant. The most famous of our group Call’ and ‘Reveille’ every morning at was Matt Brennan along with Peterson (or Petersen – I’m not sure). D Troop Camp Evans. Being a musician in a was where I saw the most action. We were north and west of LZ Sharon while combat environment was, to say the I was with the Troop. I also spent time on the ‘Street Without Joy’. We were, least, very interesting. I am currently I believe, the last CAV people at Camp Evans and we pulled road patrols after an active member of the 1st Cavalry the CAV went south to Phuoc Vinh. I’m living in Vail, Colorado. The terrain Division Association through the Los looks a lot like Camp Evans (the vegetation isn’t even close). We have a HATS Angeles/Orange County Chapter in (High Altitude Training Site) here in the county so I routinely see Blackhawks Brea, California. I just received my (the Huey’s have been retired, sigh!) and Chinooks flying overhead. There is a copy of the SABER, and read through county road that parallels the runway so I get to race the planes taking off and it. I always pay particular attention to landing every now and then (the road doesn’t loop around the end of the runway the HQ and Special Troops articles, so I don’t get that rush).” 1st Cav band veteran Tom Laffy playing the thinking that someday I might see a Thanks, Kenton for the info. Anyone out there who served with Kenton or in bugle at Memorial Service reference to the 1st CAV Band. Well, these units at these times, he would like to hear from you. Might be really nice finally! Thanks to you, and 1LT Wil- to have a friend living in Vail, Colorado! liam Gore, I have a great picture of the band deplaning from a CH-47 Chinook Also received a long letter with lots of pictures at . The 1st CAV Airmobile band was truly ‘air mobile’ and they from William W. Gore of Clemmons, North Caro- flew our horn-tooting, morale-boosting butts all over the country. Most of our lina. William can be reached at . William is a member of the North Carolina enough air time to qualify for award of the Air Medal. I wear mine very proudly. Chapter of the Association (which just celebrated I’m sure the ‘Skytrooper Band’ was coming back from LZ ‘Somewhere’ in that their 20th Anniversary) and served with the 15th picture. We would schedule a ride on a ‘Hook’ from the 228th ASHB, or an Air S&S Battalion from May ‘66 to May ‘67. William Force ‘Kilo November’ C7A, and off we’d go. We performed concerts and lots wrote, “I was a replacement for one of the officers of ceremonial events, too. There was a special AF pilot, a MAJ O’Banon (Sp), I of the 15th S&S Battalion who shipped over with think, who used to take off and land his C7A Caribou like a tactical fighter. A real the division in ‘65. I arrived at An Khe and the ‘E Ticket’ ride, but we were never late. I particularly remember the December of supply company commander, CPT Charles G. 1967. Our band played a dozen or so LZ concerts in three or four days, hopping Fields, took me out to a forward support base to from LZ to LZ in our ‘Hook’. The troops were always amazed and probably thrilled meet the platoon leader I was to replace. It was to have live Christmas music so far from home. Even though we complained payday and CPT Fields was going out to pay the (who didn’t!), I know we were all proud and honored to be able to play all those troops. I was supposed to meet my platoon and concerts for our troops, and bring our guys a slice of home during the Christmas then fly back to An Khe with Fields. The officer Season. Some of those LZ’s were way out in the weeds. Our Bandmaster was CW-3 Kenneth Barner. Our enlisted bandleader was MSG Norman MacNeill. I I was replacing greeted us, told me I had a year to LTC Harry Corkill, 15th inventory the equipment, handed me his weapon S&S Battalion Commander, remember most of the guys, and actually continue to stay in touch with three of and got on the helicopter. When Fields finished promotes LT William Gore to them. Our chapter (Los Angeles/Orange County) supports education, especially at paying the troops the ‘copter left and I was the CPT in ‘66 the high school level. Several of the members of our chapter attend annual Veteran platoon leader without any OJT. That operation Remembrance events to share our stories and experiences, and to promote the lasted until sometime in June ‘66 and I finally got back to An Khe. My forward oral history efforts of the History and Social Science departments at local area support platoon also supported operations near Pleikeu, Kontum, Tuy Hoa, and high schools. Tales of our interviews by high school students might be a great Bon Song (LZ Bird). In October ‘66 I was promoted to CPT and finished my topic for an article. What we share with the young students won’t be found in tour of duty as the division supply officer. When I first arrived into the company, any history book.” we had sandbagged tents for sleeping quarters. They were well-worn and during Continued on pg. 23 Page 23 saber SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 21st FA News As I wrote in my last article, this for A Battery. Michael McGregor will be my final article for the SA- I know that John will do a wonderful job in keeping these articles relevant and 7173 Packer Dr. NE BER. I started writing a few years interesting. In the final analysis, these articles are yours and without your input Belmont, MI 49306-9233 ago because there had not been any they wouldn’t exist. So keep the information pipeline open to John. John’s e- (616) 866-0384 articles on our great unit for a long mail address is: . His regular mailing address is: 10915 [email protected] time, which I thought was a shame, as Trdition View Dr., Charlotte, NC 28269-1411. there are so many veterans of the unit After I submitted my last article I received the following: “My name is Ron out there. I am happy to report that this will not be the last article on our unit as Weeks. I was a Combat Platoon Leader in Delta Company, 5th Battalion, 7th John Parker has stepped forward to assume the reporter role. Cavalry in late 1968. I have been asked by a few members of my old company Before going to Vietnam, John served at to reconstruct the events of the 23rd of June, 1969…I am trying to contact the Fort Bragg with C Battery, 3-320 Artillery Company’s FO on that day. His name is Richard W. Sirginson. He was assigned in the 82nd Airborne Division. He went to to C Battery, 1-21 Artillery. His call sign was Scarlet Guideon 70. He was Vietnam in March 1969 and served briefly wounded on the 23rd… I would like his contact information, please. Alternatively, with C Battery, 2-19th Field Artillery. He you may have him contact me at or through Karl was then sent/volunteered to an FO party Haartz’s email on the 5-7 website. My phone number is (703) 221-8295. My and worked with D Company, 1-8 CAV and mailing address is: 17925 Swans Creek Lane, Southbridge, VA 22026. I would then with 5-7 CAV. Around September 1969 like to speak to him for a few minutes and ask a few very specific questions that he went back to A Battery, 1-21 and served either he or his RTO might be able to answer.” If anyone has any information the remainder of his tour with that battery. as to the whereabouts of this person or anyone who was in the FO party, please After leaving Vietnam in April 1970 he contact Mr. Weeks. spent five months in Bamberg Germany then The summer season has been slow as I have not received much from our mem- was discharged. John resides in Charlotte, bership to report. It has been an honor for me to write these articles and I value North Carolina, is a retired letter carrier and the contact I have had with our comrades. a part-time mobile DJ. He is a life member John Parker Editor’s Note: Thanks Mike for writing the 21st FA News and your support of the 1st Cavalry Division Association and of the Association. the North Carolina “Tarheel” Chapter. John has recently developed a web site MEDAL OF HONOR - 1LT SAMUEL S. COURSEN VETERANS DAY 2013 IN WASHINGTON, D.C. Rank and organization: First Lieuten- From Friday, 8 November to Monday, 11 November 2013 the 1st Cavalry ant, U.S. Army, Company C, 5th Cavalry Division Association and the National Capitol Region Chapter will sponsor our Regiment. annual Veterans Day Hospitality Suite and Gift Shop at the Crowne Plaza Wash- Place and date: Near Kaesong, Korea, ington National Airport Hotel for all present and former First Team members 12 October 1950. and their families. Entered service at: Madison, N.J. A block of rooms has been coordinated at the Crowne Plaza Washington Na- Born: 4 August 1926 Madison, N.J. tional Airport for the nights of Friday, 8 November to Monday 11 November, G.O. No.: 57, 2 August 1951. 2013 to provide a home base for Troopers that will attend Veterans Day activities Citation: in Washington, DC. A 1st Cavalry Division hospitality room will be located in 1LT Coursen distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity the hotel and a small LZ Souvenir Shop will be set up by the National Capitol above and beyond the call of duty in action. While Company C was attacking Region Chapter in that room. Soft drinks, beer and wine and some small snacks Hill 174 under heavy enemy small-arms fire, his platoon received enemy fire will be provided in the Hospitality Room for Cav Troopers and their guests from close range. The platoon returned the fire and continued to advance. During The Crowne Plaza Washington National Airport Hotel is located at 1480 Crystal this phase one of his men moved into a well-camouflaged emplacement, which Drive, Arlington, VA 22202. The 1st Cavalry Division Association room rate was thought to be unoccupied, and was wounded by the enemy who were hidden is $119 for a single or double room plus tax (10.25%). We have contracted for within the emplacement. Seeing the soldier in difficulty he rushed to the man’s complimentary parking at the hotel for guests of the hotel. aid and, without regard for his personal safety, engaged the enemy in hand-to- To reserve a room at our discounted rate call the Crowne Plaza directly at (703) hand combat in an effort to protect his wounded comrade until he himself was 416-1600, the national reservations at (800-2CROWNE) or book on-line to make killed. When his body was recovered after the battle 7 enemy dead were found your reservations. Be sure to tell them that you want the special “1st Cavalry in the emplacement. As the result of 1LT Coursen’s violent struggle several of Division” guaranteed rate. To reserve your room on-line place the following the enemies’ heads had been crushed with his rifle. His aggressive and intrepid address in your web browser: . Enter the arrival date and number enemy roadblock, and greatly inspired the men in his command. 1LT Coursen’s of nights you will be staying (use calendar with arrows). Scroll down and click extraordinary heroism and intrepidity reflect the highest credit on himself and “check availability” – a page will pop up requesting individual information. You are in keeping with the honored traditions of the military service. will also see your group identification. Follow instructions on making/complet- The following background information is from the book 1st Cavalry Division ing the reservation. Korea, June 1950 to January 1952 and will help set the stage for 1LT Coursen’s Room reservations MUST be made before Wednesday, 9 October 2013 in order heroic actions. to receive the discounted rate. “The 8th Cavalry moved slowly forward. Over a heavily mined road, and Wreath laying ceremonies will be conducted at the Memorials for World War against stiff resistance, it could not equal the swiftness of the previous days’ leaps. II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The Ceremony at the Vietnam Wall is Meanwhile, the 5th Cavalry was moving up to the east. There was resistance planned for 1300 and the times for the World War II and Korean War Memorial here, also, and on the 12th the Regiment was delayed by well-built roadblocks have not been set yet but we have asked to participate in the Ceremony at the and a good defensive position on Hill 174, which commanded the valley to the WW II Memorial and that event starts at 0900 hours. south and the winding road leading up to the pass. The assault on this hill by the This is a good time to visit the sites in Washington, DC and the surrounding 5th Cavalry’s 1st Battalion gave rise to another example of extraordinary hero- areas and celebrate a holiday set aside to honor the Veterans of our Armed Forces. ism.....During the night, “C” Company had worked its way almost into the pass, Join us in honoring our those who served on Veterans Day. but as dawn lighted up the scene it was discovered that no less than an enemy battalion held the commanding positions, and a foggy morning prevented air HQ and Special Troops News strikes against the North Koreans. Artillery could not be placed on the enemy Continued from pg. 22 because of the advanced location of “C” Company....Soon reinforcements from Thanks Tom for those the 2nd Battalion arrived , and the enemy fled to the northeast. The 5th Cavalry memories. Perhaps then proceeded north until it was almost directly east of Kumchon”. those troopers who nev- er made it to a concert Letters to the Editor with Bob Hope or other Continued from pg. 3 “important people” at Dear Editor, least enjoyed a concert The Green Valley Post #66 of the American Legion is attempting to get a medal by the Air Mobile Band! awarded to one of our members. He is a 1st Cavalry Division Veteran of the Tom would like to hear Korean War that is also a member of the 1st Cavalry Divsiion Association. We from any members are looking for eye witnesses to his actions on 3 June 1951. The Soldier, CPL of the 1st CAV Band, Wong Suey Lee was assigned to F Co., 2-7th Cavalry. and can be reached While at a reunion in 1989, CPL Lee was asked by a former commander, COL at . (Ret) William H. Hoffman, if he received the Silver Star he had been recommended 1st Cav Band marching in Qui Nhon in 1967. for from that action. The asnwer being no, COL Hoffman, who was CPL Lee’s Frank Smart from company commander in Korea then submitted a recommendation for the award Columbia, California, who was with the lst CAV PIO (Public Info Office) from along with a letter explaining what had haappened. He believes that the Platoon April ‘68-April ‘69, and has written comments for this column before, has writ- Leader inadvertantly forgot to submit the award due to the heavy fighting. Both ten a book titled Assignment in Samarra. This action thriller takes place in Iraq. CPL Lee and COL Hoffman were wounded a few days after the action on 3 June Frank was recently visiting his hometown of Shreveport, Louisiana, and we had and were evacuated from the theater. COL Hoffman knew of the action but was lunch together. He gave me an autographed copy of his book and I really enjoyed not an eyewitness to CPL Lee’s actions and bravery that day. reading it. You can obtain a copy from or directly If anyone was an eyewitness to CPL Lee’s actions on 3 June we need statements from Frank at . Support a fellow trooper’s writing to submit with the request. We have already contacted our representatives in efforts when you can. Congress and our Senators for assistance but need an eyewitness. Well, troopers, that about wraps it up for another couple of months. It is always Please contact Tony Day, , or write to us at Green Valley great to hear from you by email, snail mail, or telephone. Best wishes to all of Post #66, 1560 W. Duval Mine Rd., Sahuarita, AZ 85629. You may also contact you, watch your back, keep your heads down, and may God bless you, all of yours the 1st Cavalry Division Association who will pass information on to us. and the USofA. Don’t forget to say a prayer for our troops scattered around the Sincerely, Tony Day world. Welcome home to all the troopers of the 4th Brigade! SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2013 saber Page 24 HONOR ROLL Acknowledgement of generous donations from the following troopers: UP TO $25 $26 - $50 MS. YOUNG, Carol MG (RET) BELTSON, Richard D. SGT BANKO, III, Steven T. In Memory of COL (RET) William Dougald CPL BEAMESDERFER, Richard SGT COOK, Ira George MacMILLAN, IV COL (RET) CAPONIO, Frank SGT CRAFT. Edwin T. CPL CUELLAR, Cruz G. In Memory of SSG David W. OSBORNE “OZ”, C $51 - $100 PFC CURTIS, Jr., Edward F. Company, 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry, KIA 23 August MR. BROWN, Bruce T. PFC DICKINSON, Earl W. 1970, RVN In Memory of William Dougald MacMILLAN, IV SSG DOMINICUS, Robert F.X. SFC (RET) DESPER Jr., Leon T. LTC (RET) MC DERMOTT, James SGT GAVIN, Francis P. CPT’s HALL, Brian and Sanci M. In Memory of COL (Ret) William Dougald E-4 GIBSON, Carl W. E-5 McGAHA, Jimmy C. MacMILLAN, IV SGT HARNE, Albert Paul SP-5 MIRAGE, Paul L. MR. MILLER, Jeffrey A. SFC (RET) HEIM, Wendell D. In Memory of LTC (RET) and Mrs. Donald A. OR- In Memory of LTC (RET) Paul RILEY, Jr. MRS. HORD, Mary SINI MR. POOL, Robert In Memory of William Dougald MacMILLAN, IV MORTIMER, Walter F. and Paulette R. In Honor of CSM (RET) Bill MIXON PSG JARAMILLO, Raul A. In Memory of COL (RET) William Dougald MS. SWAFFORD, Mary SSG (RET) JULIAN, Casey H. MacMILLAN, IV In Memory of LTC (RET) Paul RILEY, Jr. LT KUHN Jr., William Robert MRS. PARKER QURESHI, Anne MR. TAWNEY, Bryce CPL LOPENSKI, Allen H. In Memory of my father, Clifford C. PARKER and His In Memory of LTC (RET) Paul R. RILEY, Jr. MAJ (RET) McALLISTER, Max W. Service during WWII 1SG (RET) MONDY, Marvin SP-4 Ruth, Kenneth $101 - $500 1LT PRINDLE, Paul R. MAJ (RET) SPENCE, William R. ANONYMOUS DONATION PFC REISS, Ronald P. SP-5 SPITZ, III, Charles W. MRS. BEATY, Lyn 1LT ROONEY, Charles W. SP-4 SPRATT, Jeffery A. In Memory of LTC (RET) Paul R. RILEY, Jr. SGT SANS, Robert M. COL (RET) BURKHARD, Alfed SGT SPRANZA, John S. The First Team Family Cares! In Memory of COL William Dougald MacMILLAN, SP-4 STEINMETZ, Robert William Your donations to the Foundation and IV 1LT STRAWTHER, Edward L. Museum Foundation are tax-deductible. MS. PACE, Linda We are also grateful for your support of 1SG (RET) WHITE, George A. the Association through donations to our D In Memory of LTC (RET) Paul RILEY, Jr. Troop program. SGT ROZBICKI, Richard L.

New Member Listing E-6 STIEFEL, KARL ELLINGTON SC A 2-17FA 12C 1307 Continued from pg. 4 6610 SFC WAY, BILLY A. GA 3BCT 1307 E-4 SCHOEBEL, WILLIAM OR 7- 17CAV 72 SFC SVETER, SCOTT D. TX 1-32ARM 87 SP-4 WHITNEY, KEITH IL 1-7C 6612 MRS. SCHROEDLS, BETTY IL 1324 1-ASSOC SP-4 THOMAS, WILLIE NY 15SS 6612 SFC WILLIAMS, CAROLINE TX B 4BTSB PFC SCHUMACHER, JOHN C. WI 3BCT 1307 PFC TINKER, MERLE E. MO C 7C 4301 1006 SGT SHILLING, RONALD J. OH D 1-5C 68 SGT TODD, CHRISTOPHER TX HHB 2-82FA CPT WYATT, PAUL K. TX 2BCT 1307 MAJ SMITH, KEVIN G. TX HHC 1CDH 1307 1307 MAJ YENRICK, JASON B. TX 1ACB 1307 MAJ STANDLEY, JOHN M. NC 224AVN 6707 SP-5 TURNER, WILLIAM S. NV 17AVN 6601 Thanks for joining the 1st Cavalry Division SGT STEEVER, WILLIAM C. NJ D 2-12C 6801 SSG WASHINGTON, DONALD C. TX HHC 1- Association! VETERANS DAY AND 5th ANNUAL VETERANS DAY DINNER IN WASHINGTON, DC The National Capitol Region Chapter in conjunction with the 1st Cavalry Division Association will sponsor a Hospitality Suite and Gift Shop from 8-11 November 5th ANNUAL 1st CAVALRY DIVISION and host the 5th Annual First Team Veterans Day Dinner on Monday evening 11 ASSOCIATION VETERANS DAY DINNER November 2013. Both eventswill be held at the Crowne Plaza Washington Na- NOVEMBER 11, 2013 tional Airport Hotel located at 1480 Crystal Drive in Arlington, Virginia. Reserve $45 PER TICKET your rooms at the rate of $119 per night with free parking prior to 9 October. Call (Please print clearly) (703) 416-1600 and tell them you are with the 1st Cavalry Division. Additional information is on the Association web page . Name ______Wreath’s will be placed at the World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War Address ______Memorials on Veterans Day. The speaker at this year’s dinner is BG Gary Volesky who has served with City/St/Zip ______the Divsiion in Iraq twice and Afghanistan once. For dinner reservations please send $45 per ticket to the 1st Cavalry Division Association, 302 N. Main St., Telephone ______Copperas Cove, TX 76522-1703. In order to ensure that you have tickets, full payment must be received by us no later than 21 October. We can only E-mail: ______accept VISA or MASTERCARD if you pay by credit card. Ensure that your card number and expiration dates are written correctly. Please provide your # Guests ____ Name(s): ______name, address, unit you served with and the name(s) of your guests with your ______payment to aid in seating for the dinner. Seating is limited due to the size of the room. We must make final coordination with the hotel providing the numbers Unit(s) ______of people attending before the event and we may not be able to accommodate late registrations. # Tickets __ Amount $ ______Check ___ VISA or MC ____ Tickets will be available for pickup in the 1st Cav Division Association Hos- pitality Suite or at the door to the banquet room. We will attempt to seat you ______EXP Date ______with your unit or friends and table numbers will be assigned when you pick up Credit Card Number - Print clearly your tickets. The members of the NCR Chapter and their spouses do an excellent job of ______setting this event up and making dinner special. Wounded Troopers that are at Print Name on the Credit Card WRAMC that served with the First Team are invited to attend as guests of the ______Date ______Association. We will again be joined by the First Team Honor Guard. Please Signature - Credit Card Payment Only join us on Veterans Day. Presidential Unit Citation defeated numerically superior enemy forces. Continued from pg. 14 The superb training, unflinching devotion to duty, and unsurpassed gallantry Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) armored column dispatched to the and intrepidity of the cavalrymen, individually and collectively, resulted in numer- relief of the besieged camp, and for the camp itself. The 1st Cavalry Division ous victories and succeeded in driving the invading North Vietnamese division (Airmobile), having recently been organized under a completely new concept in back from its positions at Plei Me to the foot of the Chu Pong Massif. There, in tactical mobility, and having arrived in the Republic of Vietnam only a month the valley of the Ia Drang, the enemy was reinforced by a fresh regiment and earlier, responded quickly with an infantry brigade and supporting forces. Using undertook preparations for more incursions into Pleiku Province. The 1st Cavalry air assault techniques, the division deployed artillery batteries into firing positions Division deployed by air its men and weapons to launch an attack on this enemy deep within enemy-held territory and provided the vital fire support needed by staging area, which was 35 kilometers from the nearest road and 50 kilometers the ARVN forces to accomplish the relief of the Special Forces camp. from the nearest logistical base. Fully utilizing air mobility in applying their By 27 October, the tactical and strategic impact of the presence of a North combat power in a series of offensive blows, the men of the division completely Vietnamese regular army division in Pleiku Province necessitated a change defeated the numerically superior enemy. in missions for the 1st Cavalry Division. The division was given an unlimited When the enemy finally withdrew his broken forces from the battlefield, the offensive role to seek out and destroy the enemy force. With bold thrusts, ele- offensive capability of the North Vietnamese Army in the II Corps tactical zone ments of the division pursued the North Vietnamese regiments across the dense had been blunted. The outstanding performance and extraordinary heroism of and trackless jungles of the west-central highlands, seeking the enemy out in his the members of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) and attached units, under previously secure sanctuaries and giving him no quarter. In unfavorable terrain the most hazardous and adverse conditions, reflect great credit upon themselves, and under logistical and tactical conditions that would have stopped a unit with the United States Army, and the Armed Forces of the United States. less capability, motivation and esprit, the cavalrymen repeatedly and decisively