Welcome to page 10 (the most recent page) in the Logbook.
Don't forget to make your own entry so others can find you.
These entries are presented in reverse order, first last, last first, you can
access the rest of the series by using the "next" link at the bottom
of each page.
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Here are
what previous visitors have written about my web site:
______________________________________________
From: W. G. Smith flash49wg@gmail.com
Sent: Sun 01/03/2021 12:40 PM
W G Smith
________________________________________________
From: Charles Mattefs camatt67@aol.com
Sent: Thu 11/12/2020 12:40 PM
Charles Mattefs Lieutenant
________________________________________________
From: Stephen Rowland stevemedic@yahoo.com
Sent: Sat 11/23/2019 12:40 PM
Steve Rowland
________________________________________________
From: Jack Boyce BoyceJack@comcast.net
Sent: Sat 8/31/2019 2:09 PM
I am Sgt John James Boyce, Jack to every one who knew me; I served at Firebase Charlie-2 in HHC, 1st of the 61st, as Colonel Stallman's RTO. A little time in S&C ops whenever the Colonel was adventurous, but most of the time in TOC whispering to guys in the bush late at night. I was in country 12/8/70 to 8/6/71. Together with an officer, I returned the unit colors to Fort Carson, Colorado. Your website brings back memories, good and bad, especially the photo and diagram of the TOC. Just as I remembered: My chair was in front of the left "OPS Radio" desk, and Guts was my responsibility, handed down from the previous RTO, who left in February, I can not quite remember his name. Who donated the diagram and photo of the TOC? I would like to communicate with him also. On the evening of May 21, 1971, I went down to Charlie-2 Mess shed (chest high concrete block wall under a corrugated tin roof). After eating, I went to the newly completed Pizza-Cold_Beer bunker adjacent to the mess shed with my best friend, Chuck Norbert Kowalk. SP4, HQ Btry, 5th Bn, 4th Artillery, 5th Inf Div. Chuck and I worked together in the TOC. It was my job to triangulate the location in Rocket Ridge, Chuck would bring down the fire and brimstone. We were a good team and had a decent record in shutting down the incoming quickly. As we drink a cold one together, we talked about Chuck's recent R&R in Bangkok. As I recall, there were no cold beers on Charlie-2 before the Pizza bunker. That may be why it was so full that night. I managed to get the spot at the end of the bar close to the "exit". Captain Sax, Recon Company was leaning against the door jam. I wanted to be close to the door because I was on duty at 6 pm and could only have this one beer before heading back to the TOC. The 1st 122 mm rocket hit at 5:35 pm.
Thanks for the website, photos and stuff. As I said... memories
________________________________________________
From: abrown13613@gmail.com
Sent: Thu 8/16/2018 2:28 PM
Looking for these guys last name Shackleford, Seabrooke and Bray we all were good friends.
________________________________________________
From: pat kohls coachkohls@yahoo.com
Sent: Wed 10/10/2018 5:46 PM
My grandfather was in the red diamond and in the unit 161 delta
Co. He was a Sgt. and a mechanic. I heard he was a 1st Sgt. not sure if true. and I also see the
original top was Kia. This site is
unreal. What a treasure. I have,
somewhere in my house packed away a book from the red diamond division with
names and rosters in a leather and suede brown binding
showing a river. I’m assuming the Muese.
He was gassed and spent many months in the hospital. I
also have two large posters of camp Dodge in Iowa and I believe camp Green I
had framed 35 yrs. ago in a vacuum sealed frame and
glass. Any info would be great. Thankyou
___________________________________________________
From: Steven Wells, wellsstephan4@gmail.com
Sent: Tue 6/26/2018 9:56 PM
I am
looking for a friend and former Road Runner. If Frank Coleman is out there I would like to hear from you and chat about the good
times we all had in the field. The best times of my life were with all my Road
Runner brothers. God bless all of you and stay safe.
___________________________________
From: Tad
Pritchett <Tadfrog1@aol.com
Sent: Mon
6/4/2018 11:35 PM
Hello, I was with L 3rd BN 3rd
Marines. In February 1969 we were attached to an Army
Company of APC’s and Tanks. All I have ever known is “First of the Fifth” and I
think it may have been A Company. We disappeared from all of the Marine
operations reports and I have wanted to get the Army ops reports for Feb-Mar
1969, especially the Morning reports.
Could we have been with A Company 1st BN 61st Infantry?
Thanks,
Tad
__________________________________
From:
Dave Spinazola <customautotops@gmail.com
Sent: Sat
6/2/2018 2:55 PM
Hi, My
name is David H. Spinazola; I served in HHC, 1st of the 61st, in
the 4.2 mortar platoon, from 1/69 to 1/70. Some of my buddies from Recon used to call us the Palace Guard because
we didn’t have to do some of the things they did but nevertheless, we got
clobbered more than a few times and were lucky to survive the year.
I ended up doing every job from ammo humper, to gunner, to driver ( most of my year ), to track commander, at the end of my
tour. All I can say is that it was the experience of a lifetime, leaving home at a young age without a clue, dealing
with difficult situations and impossible people ( theirs and ours
). I feel that my time in the service of our great country has been more
valuable than the years I spent in college. I always felt if I could make
it through that, the rest of my life should be a
piece of cake. I have been able to stay in contact with several of the
friends I made back then but this may be an opportunity to find a few
others. Thank You for your efforts, Sincerely,
Dave.
______________________________
From:
Tony Arimas kyrptonjon777@gmail.com
Sent: Sat
12/30/2017 4:44 PM
Looking for commo track Sgt.Tom Loehr, he lives in
Florida, I need his help in processing a TBI claim, and witness. Co C,1/61st,Fifth
Infantry(mech) please contact Company Commanders
personal gunner,Anton Arimas,
about the command track wreck in person ridge, Fort Polk,la,jan
1977. Tom, email me or call 224-639-0797. Thanks
_____________________________
From:
Russell Widener russontheroad@me.com
Sent: Mon
5/8/2017 2:12 PM
CAN ANYONE FILL IN THE
BLANKS FOR ME ON THE EVENTS OF NOVEMBER 12-13, 1969? I was on the hilltop with
the mortar platoon, B 1/61. We were reinforced late in the evening by A Company
- later we were hit by a large NVA ground attack. I have intermittent memories
of the events of that night but desire to fill in many blanks before I depart
this earth. I have read radio logs as well as a few accounts of that firefight,
but I would like MY logbook filled in if possible. I remember sitting in our
FDC track when an RPG deflected off the side of it hitting the ground about
20-30 feet away, later throwing trip flares out to our perimeter to mark the
safety zone for the Spooky gunship, getting knocked off my feet by a bomb
dropped by our air support, shouting into the radio handset at the FAC (Barky),
bandaging some wounded soldiers, etc. What really bothers me is that 4-5 months
later, I received a medal for actions that, for the most part, I do not
recall... I just need to fill in the blanks. Many thanks to everyone that
night... and all of you are superb soldiers in my book.
___________________
Wade Stolz wcstolz01@gmail.com
Sent: Mon
4/17/2017 2:58 PM
Found your page as I was looking
back at my deployment to Panama in 1989.
Company: HHC 1/61 inf
Operation: Nimrod Dancer
Rank: Sgt
Name: Stolz,
Wade
Spent half my time at the big
white bubbles then the rest at / around Empire Range. When we first deployed we were
known as 1/61st Inf then
changed to 5/6 Inf. Great times, beautiful place.
Thanks, Wade
___________________
From:
Isaac Koch iskoch01@icloud.com
Sent: Fri 2/24/2017 6:09 AM
I just stopped by
your website this morning. My girlfriend is in basic training at 1-61 now.
_________________
From:
Woodrow Johnston woodrow1905@yahoo.com
Sent: Tue
9/27/2016 3:56 PM
Anyone assigned to unit at Ft. Carson 1971 to
Nov 1972
I was in recon platoon assigned
to S4 under Sgt Jewelry I was in evolved in a accident
down range of PC turned over. Looking
for anyone that was in evolved or remembers it
__________________
From:
Wayne Mullen wlmullen@yahoo.com
Sent: Tue
8/16/2016 12:38 PM
My name is Wayne Mullen. I served in the 5th Infantry Div (Mech), 1st of the 61st
Infantry Battalion, "C" Company from 1965 to 1967. I was an armorer
and trained troops on their way to Viet Nam.
I trained in all small arms, however, primarily in the M-60 machine gun.
I did my basic training at Ft. Carson, as well as AIT...and spent the rest of
my Army time with the 1st and 61st training. I have fond memories of Ft. Carson
and Colorado Springs... I hope you will
all keep me informed of up-coming events and news concerning the 1st and
61st.... Thanks, Wayne L. Mullen wlmullen@yahoo.com Chico, CA. 95928
______________
From: Robert Cutting bobcutting13@gmail.com
Sent: Wed
8/17/2016 8:42 PM
My name is Bob Cutting and I
served w/A Co. 1/61, 5th Mech Inf. from Nov 68-Feb 70. I found your site while
Googling on my smart fone. I found a familiar name,
Jimmy Trestrail, and wrote him an email, but it was
rejected. Other names that I remembered are Carl Craigholm,
Larry Kinslow, Billy Scarborough (doc), Barry Lutz,
and JoJo (3rd plt apc driver), all met at LZ Tombstone. I would like to hear fm anyone that might remember me.
____________
From:
Kristine Tait kristait@sympatico.ca
Sent: Mon
7/25/2016 10:22 PM
Hello,
I’ve been
reading your website with great interest and thank you for compiling it with so
much amazing detail. I was looking for information about a very dear
friend of ours, Lt. William Louis Long, from El Paso, Texas who was a member of
this outfit and was killed in Vietnam on June 20, 1969. Reaching the end
of the Vietnam section, I clicked on the link
for the “Band of Brothers” page and was disappointed not to see his name under
“B” Company, so just wanted to point out that he’s been omitted. I can’t
think that the “Band of Brothers” would only include those who lived through
this terrible war, so hope “the fallen” would also be included – but perhaps
not. He’s listed in “We Remember” and
there was a “Memories” submission for him which
was very nice for the individual to submit – hard as it was to read. Thank
you again for all the incredible effort on the website which our family will
find of great interest – and much sadness and the tragic loss of so many
terrific people. . Kris Tait
From: Pat Kilburn kilburn29@gmail.com
Sent: Sun
7/24/2016 7:24 PM
I was with Co C, 1/61 5th Infantry. First EOD with them in Oct 1969. I was in the horribly
firefight of Nov 11-13, 1969. I was an infantry man and then became the HQ RTO.
Pat Kilburn
_________________________
From:
Tony Delawter tonyd921@yahoo.com
Sent: Thu
6/2/2016 7:01 PM
My uncle, Vernon Wiggins was in
B Co. 61 Inf. 5 Inf. Div. From August 1969 until January 25,
1970 when he was KIA in Quang Tri. Was trying to make
contact with anyone who may have known him. I am a Marine Corps veteran
who served from 1984-1992 and I'm not too familiar with many Army unit
designations. Any help would be appreciated.
____________________________
From:
Kyle Harvey Kyle.Harvey@tlc.texas.gov
Sent: Tue
5/17/2016 1:19 PM
My dad
SPC Terry Lee Harvey was in C Company 1st Bn 61st Inf 1st Bde 5th inf Mech. He served from 1968-72? I'm
looking for his fellow brothers that may have served with him or remember him. Looking
to exchange a few pictures and stories.
Thanks, Kyle Harvey
"proud son"
_______________________________
From: Bruce Moohers rdcm806@msn.com
Date: Wed May 11, 2016 1202PM EDT
I served with 1/77 Armor 1970-71. Trying to find air units. I was shot down in Sept-Oct. Messed my back and need information on the
incident but can’t find what init supported us.
________________________________
From: Bill Ruby bwruby@aol.com
Date: May 11. 20116 at 4:50:31 PM EDT
I was in C Co 2nd Bn/61st
INF when E3 or E4 Price was killed in a 2 ½ ton rollover at Ft Carson in the
fall of 1962 or 63. I’m trying to find
out what the dates were and where he was buried. Don’t know where to look. Any Help would be appreciated.
_________________________________
Date: Thu, Apr 7, 2016 4:27 AM
From: "Bert Ovitt"
mobilebert@minwest.com
I returned from my forth tour in
Vietnam and reported into Fort Carson around the 1st of December, 1971. They assigned
me to HHC 1/61 Scout Platoon. SSG Hatcher was my platoon sergeant. I had gone
to grade school and middle school with SSG Hatcher, who left the army a few
months after I arrived there. There were few of us assigned to the platoon when
I arrived. It seems like somewhere between 7 and 11 soldiers total. They had
most of their vehicles in storage. I think we had 1 APC, 2 M114’s and 1 or 2
jeeps. Later when they created Combat Support Company CSC 1/61 Inf, we had received a few more
soldiers and started getting some of our vehicles out of storage. I think we
ended up with 4 M114’s. 1 APC. and
a jeep. While I was assigned to 1/61 from December 1971 to August of 1974 (when
they were sending 1/61 back down to Fort Polk to the 5th
Infantry). We did a lot of training up, to make up for the lack of personnel
and equipment the first year I was with them. I whole Scout Platoon went to Recondo School along with two other scout platoons and one
Engineer platoon in February 1973. I had gone to the 5th Division Track Master
School for combined arms training in April 1972 down range at the Recondo training area. I then went to Basic Non
Commissioned Officer’s course at Fort Benning for 16 weeks from June 8, 1972 to
September 16, 1972 . In July or August of 1973, our Scout
Platoon went out to California to be trained by the Marines for “Beach Recon’
training. I had received orders to leave the army just before we left and had
to stay back to get that corrected as I had just moved my wife out from
Virginia and made no plans for a civilian life. It took a few days to get that
all changed and I missed the training, but it was pretty crazy training from
what the platoon told me. I was transferred to Scouts CSC 1/10 infantry when
the 1/61 transferred to Fort Polk in August 1974. I ended up going to Germany
in June of 1975 to May 1978 and came back to
Fort Carson. I had gone to Redeye school on my way to Germany
and picked up the 11b redeye MOS. Just before I left Germany to go back
to the states, they made me either drop the Redeye qualifier and stay infantry
or become a 16P30 air defense man. I chose the latter and went back to Fort
Carson to the 4/61 ADA Battalion for two years then back to Germany as air
defense for a 2 year unaccompanied tour. I was then sent to Fort Polk, LA
to 1/55 ADA Battalion. I visited the 1/61 a couple times while I spent my last
3 years there at Fort Polk.
__________________________
Date: Wed 3/30/2016 11:13
PM
From: thor257@yahoo.com
My name is Mike Thornberry. I was squad leader of the 2-1 track B 161 5th INF MECH from June 70 to Apr 71. I would like to thank all who served in Vietnam and would like to hear from anyone who served with me or knew me. Email is thor257@yahoo.com
_________________
Date: March 26, 2016 at 2:19:48 AM EDT
From: "Tom Haynes" <TomHaynes@hawaii.rr.com>
I am trying to find out exactly
what happened, when and where to Spec4 Joseph Polasek,
track driver with Flame Platoon, HH Company, 1st Bn/61st Inf. KIA
3/30/69. I researched an after action report re: Operation Task Force Remagen (16 Mar 1969 to 29 Apr 1969) which indicated Joe
may have been killed when his tracked vehicle (tank?) ran over an AT
device. Joe and I became friends in BCT at Fort Knox, Aug-Oct 68. I
was assigned to HD 5th Training Brigade at Fort Knox and Joe went with most
everyone else to Fort Polk. We exchanged letters until early spring 69.
Thank you -- Tom Haynes
______________________
Date:
February 20,1969 at 8:57 PM EST
From: lapepi@charter.net
To everyone visiting this website: It has come to my attention from one of our brothers
that there is an individual named William Ripley that has emailed individuals
that leave emails on this sight and is claiming that he is an historian. He has a
questionnaire with 25 questions on it that he is asking us to answer. He is also asking for a picture. He may in fact be an historian but I have no
positive proof of it. He also contacted
me last year and I refused his request.
With the constant threat of identity theft today, I would be very leery
of answering any questionnaires of this sort and would certainly not give out
personal information and photos.
Lou Pepi:
Webmaster
_______________________
Date: January 27, 2016 at
6:10:27 PM EST
From: strike1_502@yahoo.com
Roadrunners! I'm currently serving as the BN S3 NCO
and was also the A/1-61 1SG. I'm looking for the name of a platoon sergeant
from 77-78 in Aco. That was LT Rodriquez's platoon
sergeant. Any information would be great. Thanks!
******************************************************************************************************************************************
Tue 1/26/2016 4:15 PM
Eastern Standard Time
From: RWR475@aol.com
“LOOKING FOR A
BUDDY” I am looking for Lt. Rodriguez’s Platoon
Sgt. (sorry I can’t remember his name) or anybody else who served in Alpha
Company 1/61 Inf. 5th Inf. Division at Ft. Polk July 1977 to
June 1978. Thank you for your assistance.
If you have information, please respond to the above email.
********************************************************************************
Wed 1/6/2016 4:07
PM Eastern Standard Time
From: Howard D, Tuter - hdtuter@yahoo.com
Hi, found the site
sometime back and enjoyed reading the posts.. My name
is Howard D Tuter I served from 2/1970 thru 12/1970
spent most of my tour at C/2 with delta co. 1/61 I was the company commanders
jeep driver, jeep was named (Strawberry wheels forever) I Lived in the orderly
bunker with first Sargent Unggowa, the mail clerk Daluka and orderly room clerk Ski and the company commander
who's name I I've forgotten, the last month or so I spent at the motor pool
back in Quang Tri... I was sadden when I read about the guys lost in the rocket
blast at C2 in 71 ...can't
believe that it's been 46 years.
*************************************************************************************
1/4/2016 1:46:40 A.M. Eastern
Standard Time
From: Karrie Duke-cm.karrieduke@gmail.com
My name is Karrie Duke. My Dad, Larry Duke served in Vietnam as a
track vehicle mechanic from October 1968-September 1969. B
Company 1st BDE 61st INF 5th Mech
Div. In assisting my parents with my Dad's VA claim I have been
researching the 61st Infantry 5th Mechanized, Task Force Remagen,
& Operation Maine Crag. Using the Vietnam Memorial Wall Website I now have
names to attach to the 10 men's bodies my Dad had to I.D. when most of his Unit
was wiped out on June 18, 1969. The hardest was when he had to view the body of
his close friend Melvin Lamar Mize. My Dad was in the hospital the day Mize and
the other men were killed in action. He was being treated for wounds from
grenade shrapnel. My Dad new that Mize’s father had passed away 6 months prior
and the thought of his Mother losing her husband and now her son cut deep. When
the traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall came to town my Dad went down and was told
which panel and row Mize’s name was listed on. He carried a card with the
location written on it for the next 30 years in his wallet. What has
given me the best understanding & most touching information are the entries
here submitted by the Vietnam Vets recalling their experiences, their memories,
their nightmares, & their remembrances of fallen brothers they bravely
fought alongside with. As I read these accounts tears roll down my face as I
think of the hell my Dad & these young men lived & died for. My Dad
does not speak very much about Vietnam. I think the disrespect & disgust
that many Americans had for the Vietnam Vets when they returned home had a
severe psychological effect on the veterans. There was no ticker tape parade.
No transition period from the war in the jungle to the protests & the lack
of respect shown to the men & women who fought so that we could keep our
freedom, so that protesters could protest. The bloodshed & the threat of
being killed in the worst conditions are not memories my Dad chooses to relive.
But the truth is that even though the soldiers leave the battlefield, the
battlefield never leaves the soldiers. I would like to express my sincere
gratitude to all that served. I am proud to be the daughter of a Vietnam
Veteran. The love my Dad has for me & the care & responsibility he has
always provided me with is beyond measure. As is the love, respect, &
gratitude I have for him as my father. He is the husband you want as your life
partner, the son you can be proud of, the friend you want by your side. He is
my world. It is with Honor that I fight for the benefits & care that he
needs & that he rightfully deserves. To the friends and families who lost
loved ones in Vietnam, please know that the memory of
these brave men are alive in the hearts of brave men like my Dad.
If anyone served with my Dad, Larry Duke, please feel free to
contact me. My email is cm.karrieduke@gmail.com - I have 2 albums of
photos to share.
Thank you Col (US Army Ret) Jack Swaren for
providing this website. It is an incredible tribute to
the 1/61.
I would also like
to thank Ed Davis for sending me the list of websites he has compiled to assist
Vets with the VA Claims process.
*****************************************************************************
1/3/2016 6:30:33 P.M. Eastern
Standard Time
From Bruce Kefauver-brucek22b@yahoo.com
My name is Bruce Kefauver.I
was with the 363rd light truck company. I went from Saigon to Danang on an lST and drove from Danang to Wunder Beach by truck with the
rest of the unit. Five months after I got there I et'd and left on May 28.Since 1002 I’ve been looking
for something about Wunder Beach and just heard from a friend about the site.
**********************************************************************************
December 15,2015 at
12:40:29 PM EST
From Anthony Simenas – tcapo@gmail.com
My name is Anthony Simenas,
I was in 5th Mec.Div.Jan.70 to Sept 70.1st Bat.1st 61st.Co.B. Adolph Borysko was my Co.He always
mispronounced my name. He called me Sgt.Simenzik.I
used to get xtra ammo for him when Div.started rationing 81mm.Mortar ammo
**************************************************************************************************
1/9/2015 10:35:29 A.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Dennis G Wood, Sr - dennisgwoodsr@aol.com
Comments: I thought I sent an entry a few years ago but didn’t see it so will
resend now!
I
was with B 1/61 from July 69 till May 70. Started at LZ Sharon, Quang Tri, till we took over C-2. I was track mechanic and VTR TC when
it was running and BN didn’t borrow it or our parts! I served with many brave
men who sacrificed every day and we were brother through thick and thin!
Meeting a lot of you all now has restored my hope and faith. Counted many 122
rockets till I lost count from Rocket Ridge.
Welcome Home Brothers. “We Will”
Dennis G Wood, Sr on Face Book and YouTube, serves as a Veteran's Advocate and
DAV Service Officer.
11/8/2015 12:57:53 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Adam Nadiak - adamcnadiak@gmail.com
Comments: Not sure if this will help but I’m looking for either pictures or
information about my time (August -November 2003) in 1/61. Like many I know
that Facebook and Camera Phones were a dream of the Future. I would love to
connect with My old Drill Sgts
if possible. DS grantham, Tubbs and
D’toboda. Not sure if that is possible but
thanks.
Adam Nadiak
Charlie CO 1/61 4th Plt August -November 2003
Certified IT Professional
11/4/2015 9:00:34 A.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Bob Morton and Gary Lipowski - gl64uw@gmail.com
Comments: I am writing on behalf of Bob Morton of B Co. 1st Bn 61st Inf 5th Mech
Div serving in RVN May thru Nov 1969. Bob is trying
to locate information pertaining to a friend named “Hooks” and a Lt. named Dierich(Sp?) Bob was there when the Lt lost an arm and would like
to know if the Lt made it home and what happened to him. Hooks was his only
friend in the unit and would like any information on him.
Thank
you, Gary Lipowski
Bob and I are in the same Vet Center group located in Gainesville, Florida
11/2/2015 10:04:23 A.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Paul Tabone (T-Bone) - paul@patchelect.com
Comments: I have been reading the posts in the log book and was struck with a
reality. Many of have posted over the years but I'm coming to the realization
that there are quite a few that are no longer wth us.
The Viet Nam group is getting on in years and sadly are
passing on, if only from "natural causes" not to mention those who
may have passed from combat related injuries. I haven't
posted in quite some time and was reading backwards to 2009, page 9, seeing
names of people I recall. Unfortunately I attempted to contact some and the
email bounced. That could be for many reasons, I know.
A quick up date on me.
I
went to Nam in July of '69 as an 11B. I was assigned to C Company 2nd platoon,
1/61. I managed to have a quite first month until we were on a platoon sized ambush one night in August, northeast of A4
and were hit. Not a major hit, but we did have a KIA and a few wounded. As I
recall the LT had a meltdown that night as well. At some point in late
September back in Sharon, our driver had the opportunity to take a permanent KP
position to burn his remaining time in country. Frazier from
Syracuse if I recall. I was able to finagle my way into the drivers seat and became 23D from
then on. That meant that I was fortunate enough to avoid patrols most of the
time, although sitting in the hole wondering if there was amine
under my tail has its own excitement.
After
a second R&R in May '70 (it helped to be buds with the CC) I was able to
remain in Quang Tri pulling bunker guard until my DROS date in July.
I
attended a reunion of the "Society of the Fifth Division" once in DC
several years ago and did see some faces from the past. They have a list of
members, but you need to join in order to be identified.
I'm
still looking for Terry Lee and Frank Abrams, two names of people that I did
keep in touch with for a while after 'Nam. I did find some other via the
Society membership.
I'm
personally preparing for retirement, having spent a career in a family owned
business.
Welcome
home to everyone!
Paul
Tabone (T-Bone)
11/1/2015 8:46:57 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Ted Nordin - tnordin@cox.net
Comments: "Help needed from C company originals to assist with VA claim
from Ted Nordin, Zippo 6. Either 2
or all 4 flame tracks were attached to C company when we left Wunder Beach for
the field. In the afternoon of our the 1st day out, we
lagerred on a hill top where Red Devil was to be
built. The CO, CPT Popham??,
called the platoon leaders over to his track to plan the NDP, fire-plans and
defensive sectors. I and others were standing on the lowered rear ramp when
BOOM and I flying through the air and then eating dirt in a face first slide.
Clear as a bell to this day, I remember the thought going through my head in
mid-air, "This is going to be a long F***ing
year."
I
starting having hip problems in the mid 70's but didn't know the source at the
time as hurt was usually in knee or groin. Most of you know the drill, by now.
VA immediately denies claims, then says we don't have
proof of the incident, that my 2 eyewitness statements are not enough etc blah blah. Can anyone of you
provide me with addtional statements to verify the
mine explosion under the command track. Not sure of
exact date but we were at Wunder Beach for about a week before moving out and
we got to Camp Carroll on or just before Aug 10, 1968, so I'm guessing first
week of August. Any and all help appreciated. I will try to find incident
reports from 1/61 for that period but who knows if any exist in archives. (any suggestions for dealing with them also appreciated)
Thanks, Ted Nordin tnordin@cox.net
Welcome
home to all from 5 Mech, best unit the Marines made sure no one knew about.
7/16/2015 8:01:37 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Wayne Bieszczat from son Keith - bieszczat@icloud.com
Comments: Wayne Bieszczat 298th Signal Company, 1st Siginal BDE in support of 1st BDE 5th Inf (Mech)
Spec 4 Inter Speed Radio Operator
Phone number 630 437 0678, call me if you remember, I am his son, Keith.
6/27/2015 9:31:27 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Gary Fox - kodi514@bellsouth.net
Comments: Gary Fox -RTO- A 1/61 Aug 69-Oct 70
I wish to contact Kevin McGrath - FO for A 1/61. I had his contact information
and lost it on my phone. His e-mail address I have is no longer good. Can
someone help me out here?
6/27/2015 12:49:00 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Dennis Marcello - dennis.marcello@gmail.com
Comments:1983-1984 C Co 1/61st, 5th mech @ Ft Polk
I was a track driver and am looking to find folks from C Co who may be able to
link me up with documentation such as a company roster from my time in the
unit.
Specifically looking for a SGT David Gibbions.
Any help let me know.
6/24/2015 1:40:55 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Anton j Arimas - kyrptonjon777@gmail.com
Comments: Anton j Arimas Company C, 1st Battalion,
61st Infantry 1975 - 1977
Looking for Pvt Gooch, Sgt
Tom Loehr commo track, Thomas McNalley,
Sgt Coleman (Squad Leader, 1st Plt)
and Spc 4 Sammy Agee, CO's track driver.
6/13/2015 2:43:51 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Joel W. Williams - epgorge@myfairpoint.net
Comments: Joel W. Williams Company A, 1st Battalion,
61st Infantry 1972 - 1974
New
email address.
5/30/2015 12:02:21 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Jim Taylor - brc6176@gmail.com
Comments: Jim Taylor 2/B/1/61 1970 - 1971
Looking
for Banks, Tex, Hearn, Shorty
4/4/2015 4:46:56 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: James Thompson - james_l_thompson@charter.net
Comments: James Thompson 1/61 1969 - 1970
My
handel was Alabama
1/19/2015 7:52:42 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Bernie Muller - bjm17@live.com
Comments: Bernie Muller, Captain Inf
Jul. 69 to Jul. 70 HHC 5th Inf Div
Mech
Hi
12/29/2014 12:00:31 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Bernard Dave - berniedave51@att.net
Comments:
69 to Jul. 70 Co B 1/61
Please update email address, no longer with Comcast.
Thanks
Still
visit site every now and then !!
12/28/2014 11:33:50 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Keith Rowland - rowland3373@bellsouth.net
Comments: Greetings, my name is Keith Rowland, myself a
veteran and am searching for information regarding my Grandfather, Sgt Harry
Pinkerton (Red) Rowland who served in 61st Inf 5th Div during WWI. Our family has been attempting find
specific information in order for him to receive his Purple Heart. His records
were destroyed in St. Louis fire. We know he was injuried
near Paris by mortar fire, spent several months in a hospital and went to a
school for disabled veterans. Any information is greatly appreciated.
Thank
you
Keith Rowland, US Army Retired
12/9/2014 8:11:13 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Robert R. Brunette - rbrunette@att.net
Comments:Found your sight
very interesting. I served with 5/4 Arty, HHB as a radar crewman on C2, A4 and
Mai Loc 1969/70. I was on your sight a year ago and
found a picture of 11 men taken at what I believe is the Repo Depot. I am in
that picture front row, bottom right. Searching today I could not find that
picture.
Best
Regards
Sp5 Robert R. Brunette
HHB 5/4 Artillery
rbrunette@att.net
2620B Crosscreek Drive
Sheboygan, WI 53081
10/27/2014 4:33:20 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Richard L. Boltz - rlboltz@outlook.com
Comments: I was assigned to Company B, 1st of the 5th Mechanized Division in
early Feb of 1971. I had a computer repair MOS but they did not need one in
Quang Tri so I volunteered for armament support work in Khe Sanh. I spent most
of my time repairing bunkers and riding shotgun on a M113 with the contact team
for temporary fire base support. Most of the armor was stripped off the M113
and the weight was replaced with 6 layers of sand bags on the floor. Sometimes
we hauled parts and sometimes ammo at night by truck. We often passed the mine sweepers on the way out to the fire bases so every trip
was like a crap shoot.
I have some photos of the crew from our base at Quang Tri but none of Khe Sanh.
If I can contribute any photos please let me know.
Richard
L. Boltz
505-269-6819 cell
rlboltz@outlook.com
10/9/2014 11:56:39 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Roy Holbert - royholbert@yahoo.com
Comments: Took Basic and A.I.T. 1st 61st, Bravo, Nov. 1965. I am trying to
contact anyone that was there at the same time especially: Roy M. Oliver,
Ronald Farringer, William Powell etc.
Thanks,
Roy Holbert
8/10/2014 2:11:43 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Tony Arimas - kyrptonjon777@gmail.com
Comments: Looking for Tom Loehr 1976 -1977 Ft Polk LA
or anyone involved during NATO exercise at Peason
Ridge where CO and gunner where hurt in a M113 wreck. The track rolled onto its
side. Anyone who remebers it plz
contact Tony Arimas at kyrptonjon777@gmail.com or
224-639-0797. Sam Agee driver, CO Tom Loher
Commo Track, and Tom McNalley Armoured
Recovery Vehicle crew.
8/1/2014 10:33:51 A.M. Eastern
Daylight Time
From: Robert Zeissler - BobZ9@aol.com
Comments: I am Bob Z ... Robert H Zeissler... I served in A Co 1/61 Inf. 5th
Div.... I was in Nam Dec 68 to Dec 69... My Email is BobZ9@aol.com ... I am on
Facebook as Bob Zeissler...
I and Louis Pepi will be at the Reunion this Year... My First... I am Hope to
find some guys from A Co. or B or C... I am going back to Vietnam in Jan... and I am looking for any and all information about our
Firefight on April 28 1969.... Anyone with info please get
back to me... I hope all are doing well.. I have made
many contacts on Facebook and also found a few guys not on Electronic
Devices... LOL ... Just Phone numbers.... I am looking for (
and one set of numbers ) the exact coordanance
of the April 28th battle... I want to .. will put a stone on that spot to Honor the guys we lost in
that fight... again.. anyone with the name of the guys
we lost .. PLEASE get back to me... Most important is the exact spot of that
fight... Like to have anyone who was in that fight get back to me...
Also I am looking for the tankers of 1/77 who were with us that night ...
Especially the tank that was destroyed and the on next to me that one of the
guys got hit with some scrap metal from a Grenade that I throw to close to
them... Sorry about that... Never got to say that that night...
Welcome
Home Brothers !!!
Bob Z.
8/1/2014 11:42:08 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Barney Hyatt - oldretiredbum@hotmail.com
Comments: HHQ. 1/61. 1968. Combat wounded October 1968 during Operation RICH
7/14/2014 3:22:25 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: David Wood - dwood1745@aol.com
Comments: My name is David Wood. I'm doing research for a presentation on my
Great Uncle, Henry Russell Wood, who served with Co. A, 61st Inf in World War I. He was KIA
Nov. 7, 1918. I have a letter that Russell wrote to his family dated Aug. 25,
1918 in which he states that he was still in Co. F 330 Inf
83rd Division. The 83rd was a depot & replacement division. I'm trying to
determine when Russell was transferred to 61st Inf. I've checked foldthree website & put a request in to St. Louis (OMPF)
archives but with the 1973 fire there chances are
slim that I'll get anything. I've looked at your excellent website for any
additional information which may be helpful for my presentation. Is there any
way to find out when Russell was transferred?
Thank you
David Wood
7/6/2014 10:11:22 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Bert Ovitt - bertovitt@minwest.com
Comments: SGT/SSG Bert Ovitt. HHC 1/61 Recon Platoon
5th Inf Div 12/1971 to
around 4/1972 then CSC 1/61 Inf 4th Infantry Div until 6/74 served as 1st Section Leader and later as
Platoon Sergeant from about June 1973 to May 1974. The Battalion trained
basic/advanced Infantry and then we trained 10 or 12 members as scouts to fill
out the platoon. We had a great platoon that went to Recondo
School in February 1973 as a group at Fort Carson and most went to Beach Recon
in San Diego with the Seals. Summer 1973
6/29/2014 6:25:24 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Mike Littrell - Mike.Littrell@Voith.com
Comments: Jack, I enjoyed the site. I was in Vietnam from Sept. 1970 to Aug.
1971. I was in HHC the whole time. I was the S1, Mike Littrell
1LT. Worked under LTC AS Stallman most of the time. He was a crazy dude. I was
at C2 during the rocket attack that hit the Pizza bunker and killed so many. We
were giving an award that day to a kid for bravery. I went into the Command
bunker when the rockets started, what a day and night. I knew most of the guys
in the unit due to being S1, SFC Musgrove was the S1 admin. Thanks for the
memory. Mike
Freundliche Grüße / Best regards
Mike Littrell
6/28/2014 7:37:03 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Thomas Parsons - parsonsthomas1952@gmail.com
Comments:My name is Thomas
Parsons and I served with HHC Flame and Recon 61th on firebase Charlie Two from
1970 -71. I'm looking for anyone who served with me during that time period.
Thank you.
Plus can you give me info about joining your association.
Thomas Parsons
4001 E. Sahara ave. #32
Las Vegas, Nv. 89104
5/19/2014 5:21:16 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Russell Widener - ptsd1@yahoo.com
Comments: I was in B Co., 1/61 from March to November, 1969. I was in 81
Mortars, FDC. I was to go out to lead a mine sweep (road) from A4 to C2 (?)
when I was stopped at the last moment because I was needed to be FDC for the
mortars. I cannot remember the man who went in my place but he got just outside
our gate heading south when he stepped on an anti-tank mine and was killed. If
anyone remembers this incident, please let me know his name. I think it was
around September or October of 1969.
SGT
Russell Widener
5/3/2014 2:56:38 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Robert Poublon - taebob@online.nl
Comments: My name is Robert Poublon, my nick name was
Zorro.
I was with the 1st BD, 5th Div Mech. Mortar Platoon
C/1/11 from Oct 69 to May 1970. I served at C2 and A4.
I would like to to find the men I served with in this
period.
Sincerely,
Robert Poublon
taebob@online.nl
4/23/2014 5:38:46 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Henry Geib - 1SuperTrouper@gmail.com
Comments: My name is Henry Geib and I was assigned to
D Co 75th Spt Battalion from 1970-1971. I got reassigned to Quang Tri Camp Red Devil after standing
down with the 4th Inf Div
in An Khe, Camp Radcliff. I'm looking for anyone that might remember the time
(I'd say around January-February 1971) when the D Company 75th Spt Bn company area took mortar fire and as an end result
the ammo dump got blown up. As I remember it was 52 tons of ammo going up all
at once. I was sitting on a perimeter bunker and go blown off the bunker. The
next day I drove my shop officer (CW3 Olds) around the ammo dump to check the
damage. Anybody remember CW3 Olds, Sp4 Kenneth DaViega,
Sgt Greg Freyler, SSG Joe Creati, Sp4 Bob Lang or SP4 Tommy Landis? If anybody
remembers me, I always had two dogs with me, Ralph and Shep.
I had to give them up when I came back to the states, however an E-7 asked if
he could have them and he promised he would get them back to the states. I
would like to know if they ever made it back. I still have pictures of those
two dogs and got them enlarged and they hang on my wall today. I did return to
Vietnam in 1972 and stood down as one of the last combat troops to leave
Vietnam in 1973. The last official combat troop departed Vietnam on 23 March
1973 and I departed 22 March 1973. At that time I had another dog and I did get
her back to the states. She survived with my parents and lived to be a ripe old
age in comfort. For anybody wishing to contact me you may do so by email:
1SuperTrouper@gmail.com Prior email address containing 593rdSandSCo is
deactivated.
4/23/2014 3:10:46 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Dan Rohman - dan.rohman@yahoo.com
Comments: LZ Sharon 1968-1969 A Co 1/11 2nd Platoon
4/16/2014 5:43:12 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Tony Arimas - kyrptonjon777@gmail.com
Comments: Sgt. Loehr. Tom, it's
Tony Arimas, the guy you saved after the f/u at Peason Ridge late 76.
Drop a line 224_639 /797,
3/30/2014 9:05:23 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: Lee Goldberg - leegoldberg14@comcast.net
Comments: I found the website today, via a link in Facebook. It shows things
just as I remember them.
I was a platoon leader with E Co. / AT Co. 1985-86 Cpt
Rob Murray / 1SG Ernest Scott, C Co. 1986-87 Cpt. Jeff Jochow,
and S-3 Air 1987-88 S-3 Maj. Les Albers
I have pics I would like to contribute if you are interested.
Lee
Goldberg
2/22/2014 12:37:50 A.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Grant T. Kien - chukarman1@hotmail.com
Comments: I discovered your site tonight 2-21-2014--I came to C-2 in evening in
early October 1970(I was one year past my internship--spent first year in Army
at fort bliss--they never bothered to send me to basic training)--I was super
scared and almost immediately upon settling in the battalion aid station bunker
we got call from TOC BUNKER indicating an EM had just walked into TOC with frag
with pin out and demanding to be sent back to "WORLD" and so began my
tour--I was battalion surgeon 1/61 1/5 from oct.1970 till first of may 1971
I would enjoy talking with anyone (but particularly any of the medics that were
with me).
Grant
T. Kien, M.D.
Cpt. US ARMY, retired
2/14/2014 5:11:15 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Fred C. Bouser III - fbouser@bellsouth.net
Comments: Fred C. Bouser III, Spec-4, Buck Sergent, HQ Company, Flame Platoon, 1969 - 1970, RA1145382
I think?
Served only one month on Zippo 58, was used as Base
Defense RTO and later NCOIC at Quang Tri.
2/9/2014 10:44:47 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Bruce Kruger - bgkruger72@yahoo.com
Comments: My name is Bruce Kruger, I served with the 532 sig plt which deployed out of Ft. Carson CO in 68 . THE 532ND THEN BECAME THE 298TH SIG CO. l spent most of
most of my tour of 21 months in the field in 3 different locations, C 2, A 4
and Wonder Beach. I am trying to locate Mitchel, Kennedy and Ramerz who serves with the 298. Email address is
bgkruger72@yahoo.com
2/9/2014 6:43:46 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Patrick Walker - gr8alaskan@hotmail.com
Comments: I served in HHC 1/61 infantry. My name is Patrick Walker. I served
1981-1982. I was a medic in Headquarters Company. Please enter me in log.
RoadRunner.
2/7/2014 4:00:48 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Joe Shallcross - joes960@outlook.com
Comments:Hi,
My name is Joe Shallcross, I served with the 20th
TAAS (Forward Air Control) in 1969 attached to the Americal Division out of Chu
Lai. I stumbled across a picture on your site of Joe Shallcross
at Wunder Beach in 1969. I’d really like to get in touch with him and compare
notes. I was amazed to find a guy with the same name as mine! Many thanx.
Joe
Shallcross
joes960@outlook.com
1/29/2014 6:49:20 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: ISAAC CHADWELL - ichadwell@live.com
Comments:I GOT THERE IN
MARCH 1969 TO 1970 ISAAC CHADWELL RECON HHC /1/61. I
KNOW ABOUT 60 FT SNAKE. AND I LIKE YOUR SITE. IM TRY TO FIND SOME GUYS (ROBERT McCARTNEY) (MIKE VANDOIAH/DOC) (DAVID CLOUGH) (DAN PLAPUS)
(BILL BRUNER)(RIGSBY)(ANDY MASSEY HE HAD A BROKEN
LEG)(AND I CAN"T REMBER THE GUY NAME THAT SHOT HIS ANGLE BONE OUT.) WE ALL
WAS IN RECON AND WENT TO KHE SANH AND JONES HE WAS A TRACK DRIVER GOT NAIL WITH
A RPG. I KNOW A LOT PEOPLE ON YOUR WEB SITE BUT THEY'RE NOT KEEPING IT UP DATE.
I MIGHT KNOW YOU IF I SEE OLD PICTURE OF YOU. NAMES ARE HARD. AND THINK YOU SO
MUCH FOR WEB SITE.
1/21/2014 7:28:28 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Bill Cunningham - janice_bill_cunningham@yahoo.com
Comments:My name is Bill
Cunningham. Bob Moore was my older half brother and
my hero. I don't know if you knew him or not. Guess I'd like you to put his
name on this site. Maybe some of his fellow army buddies might be wondering
what became of him. Bob passed away in July 2012. If anyone would like to
contact me they're more than welcome.
Bill
and Janice
Bill (740) 777-8174
Jan (740) 277-9648
1/21/2014 12:04:47 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Bob Christen - bchris@tds.net
Comments: Nice site. The pics brought back some memories.
Thanks for putting this up!
Welcome home.
Bob
Christen, Sp. 5
526th Eng. Det. (U)
April 1, 1968- April 4, 1970
Wunder Beach, LZ Sharon, Quang Tri, Camp Evans
Wounded 2/8/70, Quang Tri, Friendly fire (and what the hell is so friendly
about it??!!)
1/5/2014 3:08:55 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Lou Pepi - Lapepi@charter.net
Comments:Hi Jack,
I found this web sight by pure accident today. Seven
hours later and I am still navigating through the sight. I was a member of 3rd
Platoon, 1st Squad, A Company of the 1/61st, 5th mech. I was taken back
emotionally as I read the communication logs and battle reports of the fighting
near the DMZ on 11-13 Nov 1969. I was part of the force that was choppered in
with Capt Gallagher into a night position. Along with
the maps, and radio communications it blew me away to relive this today. I
can't even start to thank you for what this has done for my overall piece of
mind. It is as a great weight has been lifted off me. This time has been buried
inside me like a bad dream. But it did happen and I can deal with it. I am so
grateful that this history has been put down for all to read. You have done us all
a real service.
Some of the information is not 100% correct in my estimation but that is for
later.
Again thanks,
Lou
Pepi
Please use this email below for anyone who wishes to respond.
Lapepi@charter.net
1/5/2014 7:09:25 A.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Judy Györffy - judy.gyorffy@gmail.com
Comments: Hello,
I am not sure if am at the right place here. I found your webpage just now, and
I would like to get something on it - if it is the appropiate
place for it.
During the Yugoslav wars, American soldiers were stationed in Hungary, Taszár air base. They have sometimes traveled over to my
city Dombóvár. I was a little girl then (I am not
sure, around the age of 7 maybe, I do not remember so clearly) and I was the
only one to speak English in our street that time. Some soldiers who came over,
wanted to visit a club, but could not understand the keeper of the place, so I
translated for them. This happened a few times, and once, one of them gave me a
pocket-watch. I do not remember his name or anything about him, but I would
like to find out if he is still alive or that if he even remembers this little
encounter. It is a nice memory, despite its fogginess.
Best
wishes, Judy Györffy
12/30/2013 11:13:01 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Pony - fpony155@yahoo.com
Comments: I served with recon in 1969 and I recently received an e-mail from
our old Lt.He would like to hear from ex recon
soldiers. Contact him at dhosfield@kc.rr.com
12/26/2013 10:44:03 P.M. Eastern Standard Timee
From: PigPen - PigpenTpa@aol.com
Comments: Was at Tay Ninh
in 1970?, maybe part of 69 too. Actually I am looking
for anyone that served with me especially Howard Caracciolo . We were all
grease monkeys for the most part. I can be reached at pigpentpa@aol.com
11/14/2013 8:52:14 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: Matt Lavicky - lavickymatt@hotmail.com
Comments:Hello, my name is
Matt Lavicky. I am trying to find anyone who might
remember my uncle. He was in Vietnam from November 1970 until November 1971. He
was a Squad Leader on a mortor track in C/1/61/5th
Mech. His name is Jerome Havlovic and he was from Brainard, Nebraska. He was in Charlie company
and operated in Quang Tri. He was also a Bronze Star recipient.
My uncle passed away a few years ago and I am interested about his time in
Vietnam since I didn’t really know much about it. I thought I would email you
in case you knew guys from other companies.
Thanks for reading my email,
Matt
Lavicky
matt@hotmail.com
11/11/2013 6:52:14 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
From: christmas - jzulbyc@gmail.com
Comments: I was known as christmas.I served with co b 1st of the 61st 5th inf from nov 68 to jan 70.I was in the mortar platoon.Russontheroad
asked about a land mine incident. I was there. It happened on aug 24 69 outside of con thien... about ten or twelve of us left early that morning
and only went a few hundred yards when Roy Mc clennan
stepped on a mine. we were in a group of four,Roy..Jimmy Steen... Gilchrist and
myself. Roy and Steen died ..Gilchrist was wounded ..and I was unhurt. awhile
after that an engineer stepped on one a few feet away followed by one of
headquarters men exiting his jeep stepping on another.both
died. I dont recall we ever went looking for land
mines before or after..seems
so strange..that and that i did not get a scratch. I can be reached by mail to
jzulbyc@gmail.com
10/3/2013 7:11:11 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
From: John Brennan - johnmailman@yahoo.com
Comments: I'll be in San Antonio, TX during the VHCMA gathering this next June,
2014 between the 18th and 22nd of the month. All three
helicopter books will be available at a deep discount: "U.S. Army
Helicopter Names In Vietnam", "Vietnam War Helicopter Art" and
"Vietnam War Helicopter Art, Vol 2". Also, I'll share what info I
have on surviving VN War Army helicopters (approx
1,000) that are presently on display in public museums, military bases and
memorial parks across the 50 states. I've compiled a database list which you
can view and luckily can help identify an old in-country bird. Hope to see you
there.
John
Brennan, 114 AHC, 1970-71