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Letters Home -- Don Poss, Sun, July 31 2011, 18:46:27 (cpe-76-166-233-185.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.233.185)
Gents,
Before my mother passed away, she gave me all the letters I had written home from Vietnam ... typos, misspellings, scrawled penmanship, and all. Reading those letters, in some cases, was a mix between 'remembering' more than I wanted to, and my first visit to The Wall. Nevertheless ...I think sharing letters written home from Vietnam to our friends and loved ones, could be just as meaningful to all of us, as we experienced the 'same walk' in general.
I'm am considering a new Menu section for the War-Stories.com homepage, to possibly be called "Letters from Vietnam" or just "Letters Home". So, the point of this post is to ask if anyone is interested and thinks this could be a good idea ... and possibly something for others to read long after we're gone? If so, start looking around and see if you have old letters home (including the envelope) you would consider scanning -- just as it is -- and emailing to Don Poss (dlp@war-stories.com). Of course you can withhold any letter you consider too personal, or, just request that personal letter be including in the Restricted Area/Current Members Only.
Don Poss,
Webmaster, War-Stories.com
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- Re: Letters Home -- Terry BOONE, Wed, July 13 2011, 18:43:23 (CPE-70-94-39-228.kc.res.rr.com/70.94.39.228)
- Re: Letters Home -- Harry Larsen, Fri, July 15 2011, 16:16:32 (174-21-114-39.tukw.qwest.net/174.21.114.39)
- Re: Letters Home -- Susan Jensen Alsop, Fri, July 29 2011, 5:08:59 (ip24-250-174-56.ga.at.cox.net/24.250.174.56)
- Re: Letters Home -- Diane Barker, Sun, July 31 2011, 18:46:27 (cache-ntc-aa02.proxy.aol.com/207.200.116.6)
- Looking for Michael Calkins, Vietnam Vet & Marine -- Diane Barker, Sun, July 31 2011, 18:21:59 (cache-ntc-aa02.proxy.aol.com/207.200.116.6)
Looking for Michael Calkins, born in July, a Marine who was stationed in 1967 at the Naval Weapons Station in Concord, CA, after returning from Vietnam. He had dark blond hair, blue eyes and had a slim build. He had a Marine friend at the base named Doug who was planning to return to Nam.
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CONFESSIONS OF A CH-54 PILOT -- ROBERT J. ARCHER, (former CPT in Vietnam) (Fear versus Courage), Sun, July 31 2011, 18:15:49 (c-24-23-234-140.hsd1.ca.comcast.net/24.23.234.140)
Monday, January 12, 2009 CONFESSIONS OF A VIETNAM CH-54 PILOT
Thank you for your suggestion and encouragement (<dlp@war-stories.com>) to publish my experiences in Vietnam in “War Stories.”I am telling this story to let you know that more often than not, when I was in trouble, I was scared to death.
The reason I did not originally post my 158th Assault Helicopter experience (Lancer 24, 1970) on war stories is because I believed that was only for people who had done something courageous who posted their experience. I was just a combat assault pilot like every other Lancer pilot or crew member. However, I thank you for your suggestion. And I followed your advice and posted my letter on "war stories". Thank you very much for your invitation. I am filled with humility and sadness and appreciation for those young warrant officer and officers and crew members who gave their lives. God Bless You, Bob Archer (alias Lancer 24 and Lancer 11) p.s. I am not a hero. I was often scared once I experienced my enemy fire.
Ironically, I never took a hit as a Lancer. I was “shot down” as a CH-54 pilot. I was forced to land after taking a hit from small arms fire while taking off from a Vietnamese village where we dropped off some supplies - just a log mission. Our Cobra escort had left us early so we had no support at the time. A CH-54 Skycrane has no guns, and are easy targets due to their size. We have a 72-foot rotor span. One of the bullets struck the spar or main support for our rotor blade. If we had not landed we would not have made it very far before catastrophe struck. We were on the ground in an open field for several hours while we waited for assistance from our maintenance crew. Our crew set up a defensive perimeter and waited for assistance from the 478th Maintenance crew. They flew out a new blade and we were back in business without further incident. Again, I was very fortunate. This was apparently the act one person. I think that we were the only CH-54 ever "shot down" (forced to land under power) in Vietnam.
I also flew secret missions in Laos to support the Mong and Mien military who were busy fighting their Pathet Laos and the North Vietnamese (with our help). After we left, they lost the war in Laos, and many of them fled to Thailand refugee camps. We left some very good friends behind. Some of them made it to the U.S. eventually. There is a group in Richmond, CA. that get together every year to celebrate. Those people say that they lost the war, but gained something more precious, their freedom with their families in the United States.
Some of those missions in Laos scared me more than anything I did as a Lancer. I guess the more time and experience one has to anticipate what could happen, the greater the fear factor, at least for me. Although, I never let the crew know when I was afraid. That would have destroyed their confidence, and increased their fear. We supported Air America which I later found (via TV about 20 years later) was working for the CIA!. We were the only aircraft powerful enough to put a 105 Howitzer on a 11,000 foot mountain top. We referred to this act as a "controlled crash". The winds were fierce (strong updrafts and down drafts). Our approach angle had to be perfect. The aircraft would shudder severely from the strong winds. And constant and quick use of the collective and trim were critical to maintain the proper glide path. I was fortunate to have learned on a previous mission from one of the best Army CH-54 pilots that I ever met. He was WO3 Joe Winters from Texas. He was a big guy, very tall. He had to get his height waived by the Army to get into flight school. Thank God for that! He taught me a lot on my first mission to Laos. He trusted me to make several of those mountain top landings.
The weather was not always good in Laos. I remember flying at tree top level trying to keep up with our Air America friends. The top speed (VNE) on a CH-54 is about 115 knots. They were flying at about 115-120 knots. The clouds were very low, almost on the deck (tree tops). In fact, I found myself flying through enough low clouds on the way back to base camp that I would momentarily lose track of the tree tops. This happened over and over again. I was terrified that I would go IFR, and have to rise up off the deck. That was white knuckle flying all the way back. Near the end, I was totally exhausted (after about 1 hour of this type of flying). Acting perfectly normal, I calmly said to the co-pilot, and excellent Warrant Officer, “okay, why don’t you take the controls for awhile. I don’t ever remember being more scared. I really did not know if we would make it back on the deck. Those Air America pilots were absolutely fearless, and a little crazy, but very good guys.
Thanks Again for your help.
Warm Regards, formerly CPT Robert J. Archer
478th Heavy Lift, Red Beach, DaNang.
On Mon, 1/12/09, War Stories
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- PTSD, Poem -- Don Poss, Sun, July 31 2011, 17:49:32 (cpe-76-166-233-185.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.233.185)
PTSD
Copyright © 2011, by: Don Poss
I thought I was stronger than that.
I thought I could put it in a box.
I thought I didn’t need anyone.
I thought no one understood.
I thought I could handle it.
I thought no one cared.
I thought it would go away.
I thought I could forget.
I thought I could forgive.
I thought I wouldn’t be missed.
I thought I couldn’t stand it anymore.
I thought I was alone.
I thought about asking for help.
I thought they would think me weak.
I thought I would say goodbye.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, with friendship and counseling can be overcome. Like the most severe physical wound, it is a wound deeper than heartfelt and can consume the soul.
You are strong but not invincible.
You can put it in a box … for a time.
You may not need anyone, but we need you.
You can meet hundreds who understand.
You can handle it … let us help.
You know we care … we’ve been there.
You know it will never go away … we can face it together.
You can forgive but you needn’t forget.
You still miss those who fell … as do we.
You can stand with us.
You are not alone. There are no dust offs for wounds of the soul … but we are here waiting.
You can ask us at any hour for as long as we live.
You are not weak … just human … and have seen what mankind was not meant to see.
You can say ‘I need to talk’ and we will say, ‘Welcome Home’.
We will make it, together.
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- Dog Tags Vietnam Memorial: Above and Beyond -- Don Poss, Sun, July 31 2011, 8:10:38 (cpe-76-166-233-185.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.233.185)
Gents,
I am reading a book that has a photo of a Vietnam Memorial I have never heard of. Has anyone seen the 'dog tags' memorial at the National Vietnam Veterans Art Museum in Chichago? The artist had "Dog tags [made for] the 58,211 American service personnel who died in the Vietnam War, [displayed hanging] from the ceiling of the National Vietnam Veterans Art Museum...in Chicago." The memorial is displayed in a giant formation, 10ft x 40ft (dog tags are one inch apart).
"The ... Above and Beyond Memorial [is] like an enormous windchime, made from thousands of military dog tags, one for each of the more than 58,000 American service men and women who died in the Vietnam War."
http://milmag.com/2011/01/above-and-beyond-%E2%80%93-honoring-our-nation%E2%80%99s-veterans/
Don Poss
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Ronald L. Miller, War-Stories.com Life Member #85 -- Don Poss, Fri, July 29 2011, 15:21:20 (cpe-76-166-233-185.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.233.185)
Welcome Ronald L. Miller, War-Stories.com Life Member #85. Ron served in the USAF with the 635th Security Police Squadron, at U-Tapao RTAFB, from 1972-1973.
Welcome Home to War-Stories,
Don Poss,
Webmaster, War-Stories.com
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- War-Stories.com Book Review: "A Vietnamese Fighter Pilot In An American War" -- Don Poss, Fri, July 29 2011, 12:19:44 (cpe-76-166-233-185.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.233.185)
Gents & Ladies:
War-Stories.com is pleased to recommend a new book called "A Vietnamese Fighter Pilot In An American War" (by former Major, VNAF), spanning decades from 1945-1975, and the author's migration to the United States. Copy/Paste link to read my complete Book Review:
http://www.vspa.com/aspprotect/book-review-a-vietnamese-fighter-pilot-hoi-tran-2011.asp
The Chinese had three curses in increasing severity -- all would apply to author Hoi B. Tran's life:
• May you live in interesting times
• May you come to the attention of those in authority.
• May you find what you are looking for.
Author Hoi Tran's fight through the gauntlets of all three Chinese Curses is the enduring and compelling story of honor, valor, and personal victory through decades of war and struggle as A Vietnamese Fighter Pilot in an American War. Hoi Tran relives these Chinese curses through his dramatic life story as written in A Vietnamese Fighter Pilot in an American War.
Tran's personal struggle to fight for his country is well referenced, with glossary and index, and generously documented with photographs, and has earned a place in my Vietnam War library. It simply is a must-read that tells the story of "The American War" from a Vietnamese perspective.
Welcome Home
Don Poss,
Webmaster, War-Stories.com
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- KIA*MIA Spec5, Juan Jacquez -- Carolyn Weaver, Tue, July 26 2011, 14:24:49 (cpe-76-166-233-185.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.233.185)
I have had a silver POW bracelet for years with the name spec.5 Juan Jacquez 5/11/69. Thanks for writing your story, now I have some idea who he was.
Carolyn Weaver
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Re: 821st combat security police squadron -- frank ruiz (interested locating deployment from 68 to 69), Fri, July 22 2011, 11:40:16 (174-18-72-125.tcso.qwest.net/174.18.72.125)
trying to locate safeside members took my training schofield arrived in 68 nam,until 69 march.was station at tin son nhut then deployer to pleiku ontil march 24 69.during my stay received letter of commendation for ton son nhut,trying to locate what other names received recommndation.also after pleiku went to seymour johnson then tdy to terrejon spain anyone else that you might know that went.came back to seymour then back to pleiku,tyh hoa bin thuy cam rahn bay then discharged.names i remember suess john lawerence,valenti,rauls,yenter.supan,nickname ski,novak,jimenez,azavedo,LT.kitterman,ssgts,stark,shupe,christian,nick name boo boo,shelley hope u can help.ruiz.
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- Welcome Home, Robert G. Kay (LT/USN-Ret), LM 84 -- Don Poss, Mon, July 18 2011, 11:37:13 (cpe-76-166-233-185.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.233.185)
Welcome Home, Robert G. Kay, LM 84.
Robert Kay is the author of "Pass Me The Rice" which covers his first two tours ('67-'69) as an Advisor to the VN Navy that covers his assignment to a remote Junk Group based on Poulo Obi, an island off the southern tip of Camau. Robert Kay (LT/USN-Ret) also served a stint in Saigon on the Staff of the Senior Naval Advisor during TET '68 where he founded and was Editor of "The Advisors Newsletter" which won him the CHINFO Award 4th quarter for the best Navy/Marine Corps Newsletter and with River Assault Group 24 patrolling the Saigon River from Binh Loi to Phu Cuong.
Don Poss,
Webmaster, War-Stories.com
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- looking for friend -- roy g allen (help find my old buddy), Fri, July 15 2011, 6:01:36 (cpe-071-076-177-213.triad.res.rr.com/71.76.177.213)
I was in B Co. 704th Maint. Batallion. 4th Infantry Div. located at LZ Oasis 23
miles Southeast of Pleiku, Base Camp Enari--it was the night of
Mothers Day May 11 1969. We were getting hit by a batallion size force NVA, when
ever we got hit my orders were to go to a jeep we named
"Rat Patrol", it had a 50 Cal. & 60 Cal. mounted on it. It was parked in front
of the CP tent for security, as the first rockets came into the
compound. I ran to my designated place In the " Rat". I was sitting there
waiting for Staff Sgt. Dunn to join me, rockets were coming in and
mortar flairs were in the sky everywhere, when I saw movement just in front of
me between the latrine and a bunker that surrounded the CP
tent. I could see only enough to think it could only have been NVA. I was scared
to death. I could see he had a gun and he was comming
toward me. I thought to my self that I was going to have to kill this guy or
that I was going to die or be captured. I was already locked and
loaded and on full auto. I raised my 16 to my shoulder and just as I was about
to squeeze the trigger I heard a voice call my name, as it turned
out it was my friend that worked in grave registration which was located just
behind the latrine and above the mess tent for our company. It
was a very emotional experience that happened in a split second. I can see how
friendly fire can happen. Now after remembering all this,
would you believe I can't remember my friend's name?
If there is any one out there that knows the guys that worked in Graves
Registrations at LZ Oasis, please let me know. Welcome home
everybody, and never forget the ones that didn't get to come home.
Roy Garland Allen Jr.
--
Garland & Wanda Allen
Previous Message | Next Message
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- looking for ron gessler -- rick kapp, Mon, July 11 2011, 9:35:58 (2416451hfc131.tampabay.res.rr.com/24.164.51.131)
my name is rick kapp and i was in the army 101st airborne and was also at camp evans in 1970.if you have any idea how i might reach him please let me know..i have thought about him over the years and wondered how life is treating him..rick kapp
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- Welcome Home to War-Stories.com Life Member 83: Thomas Hohmann, USMC -- Don Poss, Tue, June 28 2011, 15:57:08 (cpe-24-24-239-102.socal.res.rr.com/24.24.239.102)
Welcome Home to War-Stories' Life Member #83, Thomas Hohmann, who served in Vietnam with Golf Co., 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, at An Hoa Combat Base.
Welcome Home!
Don Poss,
Webmaster, War-Stories.com
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- Vietnam -- Don Poss, Wed, June 08 2011, 18:34:20 (cpe-24-24-239-102.socal.res.rr.com/24.24.239.102)
Gents,
When I think of the Vietnam War, which is often, I wish that we had won ... although clearly 'we' did not lose. When I think of Vietnam, South Vietnam, I wish they had won the 'American War' and as a country kept their freedom. When I think of the Vietnamese people still there ... I can only think of what might have been for them, and only wish them well. I do not hate them. When I think of the thousands missing in action and still there, living or dead, and their families here, living or dead, my heart is heavy. When I think of our brothers sick and dying years too soon, and read of their crumbling health and understand the fear and hurt and worry all that entails, I want someone to blame. 'We didn't know...' is true, but someone did. All the above is part of the war that will not let go, and the record can play and loop and play again. It is not possible to not think of the consequences of war that plagues those who fought and those who waited and those who still wait in vain, until, like all previous wars the last warrior of that era, fades away.
Don Poss
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- looking for information -- ssgt wayne g schwartz USMC (hopeful), Mon, May 30 2011, 17:50:15 (c-68-45-102-29.hsd1.nj.comcast.net/68.45.102.29)
w.ould like to hear from fellow Marines who were our . .brother wayne at da nang. he was killed by 2 rpg's on may 15 1965 .
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- Month of May -- Jay Gearhart (Always remembered), Mon, May 30 2011, 12:27:38 (adsl-76-253-105-40.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net/76.253.105.40)
It haunts me all year long BUT in the month of May the thoughts are more personel. Those who served with the 299th CBT engrs and were in the Dak To, Ben Het AO during the spring offencive of 1969 will pause and reflect on those who did not come home.So many left in the mud , God bless them all.
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- Poem: Dappled Shadows of Why -- Don Poss, Sun, May 29 2011, 12:27:02 (cpe-24-24-239-102.socal.res.rr.com/24.24.239.102)
Gents & ladies:
A Memorial Day poem. A little dark, but still very true to many:
Dappled Shadows of Why
Don Poss, Copyright © 2011
Memorial Day
‘The Why’, is like scurrying bruised clouds of combat whose dappled shadows in flight exploit valleys and folds of earth, embracing every blade of grass … every rock … every thing.
A frightful shadow that takes but does not give, and wounds a man (did you hear his cry?) or slays another (utterly … silently),
and you turn to laugh with him at the silver-lining having randomly skirted bunkers, divided fighting-holes and drawn so near …
startled to find him slain and you happily (too happily) alive.
Why me? Why am I still here? Why did this mortar arc its way merrily-twisting hither, swirling upon the axis of life, nudged left, right, up or down ever so gently by winds-aloft …
then tugged by gravities’ indifferent mass, flicked by fickled fingers of toying gods … only to slash the earth with shrapnel gleefully flying yet heartless as to the where, what,
or even if it smites flesh. Yet, he is dead ... the sandbags still bleeding rivulets of indifferent soil – and dappled shadows of ‘Why’
caring not this night you will tread the first-step of decades seeking the answer to ‘Why’.
Clouds passed again, often and without prediction, favoritism or fate, playing games of inequality and chance, fully shorn of joy or sadness, blasphemous and devoid of all emotion while
skipping a tuneless cleansing-purging dance … or not.
I saw the inviolate pattern forming …
They died … I didn’t.
They were wounded … I wasn’t.
They have Agent Orange … I don’t.
They are broken … I am not.
They are resolute in manly strength … I try to be.
They are coping … as am I, mostly.
They do not sleep the sleep of innocence … nor do I.
I’m all used up from the Why;
dappled shadows have passed me by.
Don Poss
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- Visit Walter Reed, WIA - I met a true American Warrior -- James Stastny, Chaplain, Sat, May 28 2011, 16:38:06 (cpe-24-24-239-102.socal.res.rr.com/24.24.239.102)
Earlier this week I got news that two USAF Security Force members, serving in Afghanistan, were injured. On May 8th, while on patrol, MWD [K-9] handler SSgt Ben Seekell stepped on a land mine -- it blew off his left foot, injured his K9 partner Charlie, and SSgt Russell Logan.
The two airmen were sent to the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, just a few miles from here [where I live]. Charlie [the K-9 dog] not only received shrapnel wounds but the explosion blew out his eardrums. He’s still overseas awaiting transportation back to the states. Once Charlie undergoes de-programming, the Seekell family will adopt him.
As a result of this news, Linda and I decided to pay them a visit and present them with letters of appreciation from The Vietnam Security Police Association [VSPA.com] and the Old Dawgs and Pups [War-Stories.com] program.
We first went to visit SSgt Logan in the hospital. Unfortunately, when we got to his room the nurse told us he had checked out for the weekend. So, I’ll return sometime next week to see him.
We went to SSgt Seekell’s apartment where his wife and children are able to stay with him. The attendant on duty told us they were at a picnic just around the corner. So, we traipsed over to the picnic. When I spotted a one-footed, young man in a wheelchair I asked if he knew SSgt Seekell. He said, “It’s me.” Recognizing the patches on my vest he said, “It’s K9.” We agreed there’s a bond between K9 that transcends age, once a K9 handler always a K9 handler.
We then sat around and had a great chat with the SSgt and his wife Meagan for at least forty-five minutes. We also got to see their three beautiful children Kayla, Matthew, and Caiden. When Linda asked the SSgt why Charlie didn’t alert on the explosives in the SSgt told us that: 1) he had not given Charlie the command to “seek”, which would have put him primed him to look for explosives, and 2) Charlie did not have the specific training to look for mines. Because they’re buried more deeply than IED’s and such, it takes a different training.
I cannot begin to tell you how much SSgt Seekell impressed me. Here’s a young man, with his foot blown off, sitting in a wheelchair, and he has the most upbeat, positive attitude one could imagine. Instead of bemoaning his loss, or complaining about a missing appendage, he kept talking about getting his prosthesis and going back to duty. In fact, as we visited, the band played the Star Spangled Banner. Being the true American he is, the SSgt didn’t remain seated, which would have been proper, but, on his one leg ... stood at attention to honor this great country.
To think that we have such men carrying on the tradition of the USAF Security Forces, and especially K9 -- with a tear in my eye I must say -- he makes me proud.
What a grand way to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend.
Jim Stastny, VSPA Kennel Master
'Where others fear to go K9 walks alone'
Korat RTAFB '70-'71
388th SPS K9 /Boots 645m
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- Memorial Day homepage Tribute -- Michael McMurray, Sat, May 28 2011, 16:24:32 (cpe-24-24-239-102.socal.res.rr.com/24.24.239.102)
I was stuck at Tachikawa AB on my way home for leave before assignment to Viet Nam. The old sarge at base ops after 48 hrs on standby for a hop boarded me on a C-141 with caskets bound for McCord AB. Nov 1969.
Mike McMurray,
VSPA LM 690
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- Memorial Day homepage Tribute -- Ted Wright, LM 81, Sat, May 28 2011, 16:18:14 (cpe-24-24-239-102.socal.res.rr.com/24.24.239.102)
Don,
What a touching tribute. Anyone who had the experience we had and reads what yo so eloquently wrote should well up with pride, emotion, and yes, tears. What a ride it was! Ups and downs. Friendships made and lost, and many still are today. I love the patriotism of the patriot. It is something than cannot be purchased or traded for. Little did we know at the time how proud we would be today of our contribution to this nation. It was our time. America called, right or wrong, and we went! I am truly glad to say, I served my country with people like you and many others. I am a far better man for it. I only wish the majority of our youth today would know what we know. Some things just cannot be called or texted or emailed. Some things have to be experienced. You have to know what you have before you can lose it. Thanks Don. You have made a terrific contribution to us Vietnam Vets and America.
My kindest thanks,
Ted Wright,
War-Stories.com LM 81
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- US Navy Bombing of Da Nang AFB on 1-8-73 -- Jim, Fri, May 27 2011, 9:25:39 (c-98-231-42-75.hsd1.fl.comcast.net/98.231.42.75)
Looking for any members of us bombing attack of Da Nang AFB on 1-8-73
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- A New Book about the Vietnam War -- C.A. Casey, Tue, May 24 2011, 9:42:11 (c-71-198-70-83.hsd1.ca.comcast.net/71.198.70.83)
A new book called Dr. Tom's War - A Daughter's Journey, is filled with stories told by Marines who served in Vietnam in their own words.
"Well told, in large measure through the gritty recollections of the men of the Second Battalion/Fifth Marines who lived them, the book details the daily sacrifices they made for each other, Corps, and Country. Sacrifices by our Vietnam Veterans that I fear may never be fully appreciated by their fellow Americans.” — Gen. James T. Conway, USMC (Ret) 34th Commandant, U.S. Marine Corps
Check it out at http://www.bedazzledink.com/drtomswar
Thanks!
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- RVN 1968, Hill 327 -- Gay Moore, Wed, May 18 2011, 15:53:16 (h-67-101-62-231.mclnva23.dynamic.covad.net/67.101.62.231)
Just found your blog by accident. My late husband John Moore (then a Capt., later a Col.) was the C Battery Commander in lst LAAM Bn. on Hill 327 in '68-'69. Their motto was "WGOST." He worked with lst Sgt Leary, who was later SgtMaj USMC.
John collapsed on the tennis court and died almost instantly 4 1/2 years ago. He had 26 years in the Corps, then taught college history. If anyone remembers him, I'd love to hear from you!
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- Attacks on DaNang -- Bob Baker (Smooth), Tue, May 10 2011, 8:50:38 (99-141-146-229.lightspeed.rswlga.sbcglobal.net/99.141.146.229)
Don,
The VA informs me that there were no attacks on the base prior to July, 1965. I was in and out of DaNang several times from Feb. through July 04, 1965 and know that the base was hit in Feb. 1965 Can you tell me if there were any other attacks on DaNanag air base during that period?Thanks,
Bob
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- james "jimmy" goodson -- sandra chackman (loyal), Sat, May 07 2011, 3:33:07 (cache-mtc-aa08.proxy.aol.com/64.12.116.12)
I am helping my friend Michael Thanh search for his father an American soldier James "Jimmy" Goodson, he had a relationship with Michaels mother and gave her money for an abortion, which never occured. Michael was adopted and became Michael Shepard, he is married and had two daughter's and needs to know his medical history. Mike does not want to disrupt or cause any pain, he would just like to have closure. Mike is 43 which would put his father in vietnam 1967-68. Mike has his own business in Venice Fl.
941-488-1015 or can be contacted through me. sandy
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- Osama Bin Laden is DEAd -- Don Poss (Don Poss), Tue, May 03 2011, 12:05:25 (cpe-76-166-237-73.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.237.73)
On 9-11, I posted "We are coming for you!" Now Osama meets his maker...and I do not think Him pleased.
Don Poss
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- Memories of my son, Fallen Soldier SSGT Raphael A Futrell K9 handler -- Ms. Vicki Futrell, Sat, April 23 2011, 10:15:23 (cpe-76-166-237-73.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.237.73)
Dear Old Dog and Pups,
My name is Vicki Futrell Mother of Fallen Soldier SSGT Raphael A Futrell K-9 handler of ALF. It was a pleasure to see his picture in the collage of other soldiers, and a paragraph of him. I miss my Ralph very much and to see his picture made me feel so good. Thank you and keep the good work up. Ralph was good with dogs, he trained his own here at home.
Thank you,
Ms Vicki Futrell Anderson SC
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GPSs needed -- Howard Yates, Sat, April 23 2011, 7:47:56 (cpe-76-166-237-73.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.237.73)
I am seeking some assistance in obtaining six "Garmin Foretrex 401 GPS" units for my son's outfit in Afghanistan. It seems that the Army will authorize it's use but will not provide it...duh! They have GPS units in their vehicles but since they are in a very high and rugged area, a lot of their patrol work is done on foot. Thus the need for a good portable unit like the Garmin Foretrex 401 GPS. They have 6 three-man teams and each team leader needs one. Well at about $200 a pop I can afford to send them a couple at the most. Does anyone have any ideas about where such an item can be obtained for a reasonable price or perhaps a retailer who might be willing to donate a few. It's a shame the Army won't supply something these guys need. I thought I'd throw this out there for some ideas.
Howard Yates
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Looking for info on my dad Roger Goodwin U.S. Army -- Carlena Neftelberg (anxious), Tue, April 12 2011, 20:21:46 (111.43.205.68.cfl.res.rr.com/68.205.43.111)
Is there anyone out there that served in the Vietnam war and knew my father Roger L. Goodwin? I really would like to know more about his life in the Army and the war. He passed away 2 yrs ago March 9, 2009. He served 3 tours of Vietnam, earned lots of medals, Served in 101st Airborne Division and a few others. He was a chemical engineer and more. During one tour of Vietnam, he was hit by shrapnel just below the groin in the right thigh. If anyone knew my dad and can tell me ANYTHING at all about him, please contact me via e-mail: cneftelberg@gmail.com or my cell phone: (386)956-2179. Thank you
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- What Does Melt Down Mean? -- Newell M. Swartz, Wed, March 16 2011, 22:21:08 (cpe-76-166-237-73.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.237.73)
I have heard all the experts discussing the "meltdown" of fuel rods in the Japanese reactors. I hate to appear so ignorant in front of so many people but I am tired of watching the news and all I hear the experts say, "meltdown in bad", "the fuel rods have partially melted", etc.
What they do not say is what actually happens when the fuel rods have totally melted down? Do they keep burning their way through the concrete and deeper into the earth? Most agree there will not be an atomic explosion.
So what actually happens when the rods are totally disolved. Are they like road flares which just consume themselves and end the chemical reaction. We know that area will be radioactive for years to come. We also know that some radiation will escape into the atmosphere. Worst case scenario, just dump cement/concrete on the whole thing until it is covered up like they did in Russia. But my initial question remains, what does the meltdown consist of and what are the consequences.
Reporters are prone to pick up on part of a scientist's comments but they totally lack comprehension or what the words mean. One prime example was that a reporter said pumping seawater into the reactors was a very bad thing because seawater is not pure. The next day, a Japanese scientist said that seawater was not a good choice for cooling the reactors because the corresiveness means the reactor can no longer be saved to use again. The reporter words just frightened more people into believeing that more contamination was being released because of the use of seawater which was not the case.
Newell
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My Dad's service in Vietnam -- Karmen Turner Payne (curious), Wed, March 09 2011, 10:17:23 (68-113-110-229.static.leds.al.charter.com/68.113.110.229)
I am looking for information on where my daddy served in Vietnam. He died three years ago and never really talked about Vietnam much but I recently joined an American Legion group in his honor and want to know more about his life there. His DD214 looks like Greek to me. I have ascertained his discharge status but cannot figure out where his unit was active and in which campaigns. Anyone that can help?
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- David Hartsoe -- Stephen Weber (USMC May 20, 1967 Operation Hickory), Sun, March 06 2011, 13:01:17 (cpe-174-102-156-114.wi.res.rr.com/174.102.156.114)
I knew Hartsoe and Bendorf both. I was in the night battle when they were killed along with Doc Warren. All, Heroes
Steve Weber
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- What a great Article ( One small error} -- Bill Perkins ("The Operation mentioned was Lam Son 719"), Mon, February 28 2011, 0:07:23 (72-173-24-4.cust.wildblue.net/72.173.24.4)
Lam Son 719 was an incursion into Laos in early 71 and was staged out of Khesan,Dong Ha and Quang Tri. This was the last major operation that the US was involved in. Many helicopters lost in this operation.
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- Medical Records! -- Christopher Tammarine, Sun, February 27 2011, 14:18:25 (76-236-85-112.lightspeed.toldoh.sbcglobal.net/76.236.85.112)
How does one get Medical Records? While serving in Tuy hoa back in 69,if, ANYONE AS AN ANSWER THAT CAN HELP ME ,PLEASE E-MAIL ME ,I WOULD TRULY APPRECIATE IT!
THANK YOU!
TAM.......
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- Information on my Cousin -- Ted Akins, Wed, February 23 2011, 18:41:45 (c-98-244-168-90.hsd1.ga.comcast.net/98.244.168.90)
I have been searching for my 1st cousin for several years. I found him on this site thanks to Don Poss. His name is Gary McClendon. He was with 282nd AH Co(Blackcats)Da Nang, Marble Mtn. in 67-38. He is listed as dead now in the roster.
I am looking for anyone who knew him or has any information on where he retired to. Please contact me at tfakins@yahoo.com.
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- DOUGHNUT DOLLIES -- SGT THOMAS MITCHELL OWENS, Sat, February 12 2011, 19:22:26 (99-120-8-154.lightspeed.tukrga.sbcglobal.net/99.120.8.154)
MY UNIT 1st Bn 61st Infanty 5th Infantry lost 29 men in a rocket attack May 21, 1971 and several days later some of the finest Dough Nut Dollies came and spent a few hours with us. I have several pictures of them Thank you ladies very much.
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- Info on a Civil War poster -- Justine, Fri, February 11 2011, 10:17:36 (cpe-75-82-145-91.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.145.91)
I have one of these war posters i think, can you tell me more about it? it is the [Civil War] poster [for the 7th Indiana Cavalry "Avoid the Draft" [http://www.war-stories.com/war-posters-civil-war-usa.asp], and its on a piece of wood.
Thank you very much,
Justine
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- Photo from a War-Stories: Bob Hope, 1966 request -- Thomas J. Blagg, Thu, February 10 2011, 14:51:56 (cpe-75-82-145-91.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.145.91)
Hey Don, I am the Marine MP in front of Ann Margaret in the picture on your site, is there anyway to get a picture from you or somewhere else?
It is the photo of Ann Margaret on stage with troops in the background [http://www.war-stories.com/aspprotect/dn-poss-bob-hope-1966-2.asp]. It is ok to list my name as being in the photo.
Thomas J. Blagg
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- Looking for Curtis Benson -- Kim Burgess, Fri, January 14 2011, 20:17:54 (node-2999.tor.pppoe.execulink.com/216.59.251.183)
Hello my name is Kim Burgess from Guelph, Ontario Canada. I am hoping someone would be able to assist me as I am trying to locate a vietnam veteran by the name of Curtis Benson. Curtis would have served at Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam between 1967-1968.
This is the information I have to date in regards to Curtis Benson:
Curtis would be in his mid 60's. We think he came from Virginia or North Carolina. He served in the 623rd quarter master in Vietnam in 1967-68. Stateside Curtis would have been in either the 82nd at Fort Bragg, NC or 101st airborne in Kentucky.
I am doing this for a good friend of mine Ed Cox who served with Curtis at Cam Ranh Bay between 1967-68 in the 623rd quarter master. Nothing would mean more to me than to reunite these two after all these years and I am sure it would mean a lot to the two of them as well.
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated!!!!!
Thank you ...Kim Burgess
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- Blind Bat from Ubon -- Lawrence Shelton (Tranquil), Sun, January 02 2011, 15:56:18 (NoHost/190.41.178.18)
Don, I was post Commander ( 1st Lt) for Camp Khon Kaen, an Army Transportation unit which delivered materials to Ubon, Udorn , and NKP and delivered the MTY trailers back to Korat. On an emergency leave in Jan/Feb 69, coming back to Thailand on SPACE AVAILABLE commercial flights, I found myself dropped off the flight to make space for RVN replacements. Needing to get back to my unit, and not being able to swing the senority to get a seat, some kind fellow suggested I go over to NAHA where a group called BLIND BAT was flying nightly to UBON via Camran Bay. I took a taxi over, and was told to wait around and, sure, I could hitch a ride, there were 2 C-130s going that afternoon.
When we were preparing to load up, I was asked which plane I wanted to ride on, and not knowing any difference, they suggested I go on the first craft. Having no seats available in the cargo area, I was told to wrap my armas in the straps and hold on till I was given a blast on the klaxon horn, and I could curl up on the top of the cargo. We were to land in Viet Nam , discharge some cargo, and go on to UBON. I would be warned when to hold on for landing or take off.
The following morning, arriving at UBON, with my driver there to meet me, I was invited to the base club, where the 2nd crew was to buy us drinks. When I asked why, welllll, er, Our craft was rigged to make noise and well lit, and the other craft, quietly following without lights, was there to pinpoint the bad guys on the ground firing at us to have them wasted. I was told the crews took turns as decoy. And I had volunteered to go on the decoy!! Brave dumb guy that I was. But I did gain a lot of admiration for you guys. First time I have seen your site. I will spend some time reading.
Happy New Year!
Larry Shelton
Capt. U S Army Trans Command
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- Chinese Bandits Recon -- Tom Ralicki, Wed, December 29 2010, 8:28:41 (cpe-75-82-145-91.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.145.91)
I was in the 534tc sept69 sep70. There is a book about US. It was written by Lt. Rast it's called Don's Nam, he was in the 379th tc ... did you remember the Lt. with the rock ape? that's him. A must read, talks about us drivers and our convoys.
Tom Ralicki
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- Agent Orange -- Bill Childers, Wed, December 29 2010, 8:26:25 (cpe-75-82-145-91.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.145.91)
I was at Udorn 1974, two years later I get cancer, the VA told me not to waste their time.
Bill Childers
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- USMC Dog Handler & Dog KIA in Afghanistan -- Fred Dorr, Tue, December 28 2010, 7:36:05 (c-98-215-145-95.hsd1.il.comcast.net/98.215.145.95)
Dear VDHA & VSPA Members,
On December 24th, the morning before Christmas, the remains of Marine Lance Cpl. William H. Crouse IV, were returned to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware.
Cpl. Crouse was killed in combat along with his partner, a bomb-sniffing dog named Cane, on Tuesday, December 21st by a roadside bomb, in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
Crouse, 22, from Woodruff, S.C., was the 161st Marine killed in Afghanistan this year, according to the independent website www.icasualties.org. Of those, 60 were from Camp Pendleton in Southern California.
Others, like Crouse, were from other Marine bases but, in Afghanistan, were attached to the Camp Pendleton-based 1st Marine Expeditionary Force. Crouse was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 10th Regiment, from Camp Lejeune, N.C.
He had been in Afghanistan for six weeks as Marines continue their mission to secure control of what has long been a Taliban stronghold.
His mother, Nancy Siders of Fort Wayne, Ind., told the newspaper in Greenville, S.C. that her son's dying concern was for his dog. "My son was coherent for a brief period, and his biggest concern was 'where is my dog? Save my dog! Put him in the Medevac with me. Save his life,'" she said. The dog was put in the helicopter with Crouse but died. It was the Marines' fifth bomb-sniffing dog to be killed in combat.
He played football in high school and joined the Marines, his mother said, because "he always lived life on the edge."
Funeral arrangements: Calling begins at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, December 29, 2010 at the First Assembly of God, 1400 W Washington Ctr Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46825. Funeral to follow at 2:00 p.m.
More information can be found at these links:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2010/12/on-the-morning-before-christmas-a-marines-remains-return-from-afghanistan.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+lanowblog+%28L.A.+Now%29
http://freedomremembered.com/index.php/lance-cpl-william-h-crouse-iv/
Our deepest sympathy is extended to family and friends,
Fred Door
VDHA President
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- Your Thoughts on War and Modern Society? -- Matt Molloy, Wed, December 22 2010, 20:19:48 (cpe-75-82-145-91.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.145.91)
Matt: I will express my opinion within your below email. Don Poss
On 12/22/2010 6:26:40 PM, Matt Molloy (hermanjnr@aol.com) wrote:
From: Matt Molloy [mailto:hermanjnr@aol.com]
Sent: Wednesday, December 22, 2010 6:27 PM
To: dlp@war-stories.com
Subject: Your Thoughts on War and Modern Society?
Dear Mr. Poss,
First of all I apologise if this is the wrong contact address. I only recently discovered the site, but I think it's a great project. As a British student born in the 90's, I wasn't alive in the Vietnam period, but I've always had an interest in history and the history of war. For the obvious reasons, I think it's extremely important that records are kept of such events.
I've thought a lot recently about the relationship war has with modern society, and (what I see as) the hypocrisy of society when dealing with the subject. I think in the present day war is perhaps exposed to the general public more than ever - through news, film and entertainment forms such as video games. What I struggle to understand is whether this increased exposure educates people about war or desensitises them and makes them ignorant to it.
(Don Poss) With media embedded within military units today, and satellite coverage, exposure to military events will become common place worldwide. The issues are not only exposure, but the media’s slant on the events presented (pro or con). Form your opinions from several sources. I am sure you are aware of those sources unduly pushing an agenda.
(Matt Molloy) With the current situation in Afghanistan seemingly sharing parallels with the Vietnam War (with some in this country even calling Afghanistan "Britain's Vietnam"), I seriously began to wonder if lessons have been learnt from Vietnam if that statement could be classified as accurate. More to the point, I began wondering what Veterans of that war think of the present day media coverage and public opinions on war.
(Don Poss) It seems the British public, like the American public, have bought-in to the premise that the Vietnam War (Vietnam calls it ‘The American War’) was a military defeat for the United States. All United States military were withdrawn from South Vietnam by January 27, 1973, after ‘Vietnamization’ of the war (training and turning over military responsibility to South Vietnam). The South Vietnamese successfully defended their country for a period Dr. Henry Kissinger referred to as ‘A Decent Interval’, for over two years, until April 30, 1975, when North Vietnam’s military invasion successfully defeated the South.
The North Vietnamese were victorious. The South Vietnamese were defeated. Both North and South Vietnams formed what is officially called the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. To me, if there is a parallel between the Vietnam War and the current Terrorist War, it is our president has set dates for U.S. withdrawal. My concern is if there will become a “Decent Interval” for Iraq and Afghanistan after U.S. and allied departures? If they succeed in defending their countries, where South Vietnam failed, then hallelujah. If Iraq or Afghanistan falls to insurgent forces-- would their defeat(s) be declared a USA/British defeat? And where it so --then why? Just how long must a country be responsible for the life of any country unable to stand on its own after a lengthy departure by us? In Vietnam…we were winning when we left. Independence was the South’s to defend or lose.
(Matt Molloy) One of the most disturbing parallels between the present war and Vietnam in my opinion, for example, is the lack of public support for British Soldiers currently serving in Afghanistan. While most people in this country do seem to support our troops over there, there have been some disgusting scenes of troops being labeled as "murderers" as they returned home by radical groups that have shocked and revolted me.
(Don Poss) The USA and Britain have common values, and therefore similar concerns and problems nationally. The people of both our countries genuinely do not like the pursuit of war. Our peoples will be patient for a time but will grow weary (as they did in WWII) and yearn for the return of peace. The problem today is the Terrorist Wars are likely to last decades. Defeating an ideology is not the same as pulverizing an advasary of a known country.
(Matt Molloy) When reading up on past wars I have noticed this common theme. Brit Veterans of WWII were promised "homes fit for heroes", and yet were sorely disappointed. Many felt extremely angry with the government for betraying them, and disappointed with civilians for forsaking them. Then, in Vietnam, the protests and apparent public apathy.
(Don Poss) The US government made empty promises to our WWI veterans. It sometimes seems that a nation returned to a peaceful state often forgets their ‘warriors’. I think most military in the current war zones are aware of the overall strong public support. Likewise, they are aware of opposing opinions.
(Matt Molloy) It's my personal belief that no matter what cause a war is started for, support must be shown to those who fight it, regardless of whether people believe the causes for a war are just. I despise the British politicians who lead us to join the war (several have been shown to have made substantial personal profit from it) because I believe they did it for purely selfish reasons…
(Don Poss) I understand your point; however, it is difficult for a nation’s people to support troops of what may be perceived as an unjust war, for a blanket time-frame. I am sure Germans supported their troops in what today must be viewed as an unjust war from a German perspective.
As for some politicians exploiting political events to their advantage…it has always been so. Likewise, war cannot be waged against an enemy cheaply. Countless billions of dollars and pounds are at stake for the industry winning contracts to manufacture weapons. Profits are there to be won…like it or not.
(Matt Molloy) …However, the men who fight for the country are in a different class entirely and I have profound respect and admiration for them. I know several people from my area who have died in Afghanistan, some only a few years older than me.
Then I realised my own hypocrisy and how I was just as much a part of it as everyone else. I mentioned video games earlier - I, like many people my age, play them and enjoy them. They vary greatly in theme, but some of the most popular right now are based blatantly on the very war our real soldiers are fighting right now.
(Don Poss) I do not have a problem with video games. They are just that. The problem would be for the poor soul that cannot distinguish reality form a game. But I understand your point. Even video games can be made to support an anti-war point of view.
(Matt Molloy) You could argue that perhaps such games show public interest in the real war, but I'm not so sure. I think the more disturbing conclusion is that we now brand war as a cheap form of entertainment. How many "headshots" can you kill people with? How much gore is in this particular game? "Buy this game for the most realistic battle experience yet."
That's all a little alarming when applied to alien planets or outlandish scenarios, but now games are constantly striving to apply these mechanics to situations that try to mirror real warfare…
(Don Poss) No one who has fought or survived a war would consider war as a cheap form of entertainment.
(Matt Molloy) I'm taking a pretty negative and generalised look at games here, but as they make me feel sick in that context, I'm genuinely interested in what someone with real military experience thinks when they see games and movies being marketed to people like this. To me it seems a bitter irony indeed that we say we support our soldiers, and then turn around and start playing a simulation about shooting them.
Do you think these forms of media can serve to educate people, or are simply exploitative and morally wrong? Is there a way to balance entertainment with respect for those who sacrificed themselves in service?
(Don Poss) Answering this point raises could raise a greater danger in any attempt to restrict freedom of speech (video game or otherwise) used for purposes we might disagree with. Maintaining such freedom is part of what the military defends.
(Matt Molloy) It's getting late and I fear I'm rambling, so I'll stop there. I've been hesitant to mention the Vietnam War too much, because frankly I'm very ignorant about it compared to someone who served there. I can't even imagine what it was like. Instead I've tried to talk more of the present situation and compare it with some observations.
I sincerely hope I haven't caused any offence with my thoughts, that is definitely not my intention. I don't know how much you hear from younger people, but I hope I provided some points of interest with what I wrote.
Yours Sincerely, Matt Molloy
Matt: Thank you for a thoughtful and considered email. If your peers have such concerns as yours, then I will not worry for Britain’s safety. Only a democracy would worry over these issues. Those against democracy will destroy more than video games if given the chance.
I have posted your email on my two military website bulletin boards (http://www.voy.com/283/ (War-Stories.com) and http://www.voy.com/287/ (VSPA)); therefore you may receive additional replies regarding all or part of your remarks (please advise me of any disrespectful replies).
Don Poss
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- DaNang B-57 Photos -- Keith Owens, Tue, December 07 2010, 15:36:17 (ip-63-70-138-184.la1.us.aecom.com/63.70.138.184)
Don,
I read the story about the DaNang B-57 crash with great interest, as my father-in-law was a navigator in B-57s and was stationed at DaNang. His name is/was Paul Harrington and may have been a 1st LT at the time. He retired as a Major, and has unfortunately passed away. I noticed in one of your responses to the son of one of the air crew that you had other photographs of B-57s in DaNang. I was hoping that you could e-mail me copies of those photographs to provide to his wife and two children. We only know a small part of his service, and I would like to help them to learn more. His son in particular has expressed an interest in passing on information to his children.
Thanks, Keith
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- Happy Thanksgiving -- Don Poss, Thu, November 25 2010, 8:57:50 (cpe-75-82-145-91.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.145.91)
A Happy Thanksgiving to All !
Don & Larry Poss
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- Pop goes the Weazer -- Dr. Tracy M. Baker, Wed, November 03 2010, 8:11:05 (mail.thwcinc.com/164.58.165.58)
I liked the "creative" way of dealing with the fat commo Sgt. I wonder if he wet his pants? I have to wonder what the other GIs ahead did about the sudden firing behind them? I think it is possible they also put the "pedal to the metal".
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- Restoring Honor speech -- Don Poss, Wed, October 27 2010, 7:47:52 (cpe-75-82-159-66.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.159.66)
Gents:
We all know that politics is not a part of VSPA's bulletin board. I say that, first, to assure you the following link has nothing to do with politics, but everything to do with a honoring Vietnam Veterans, love of country, and a hope for America. It is a link to all the above and is an uplifting and stirring 1-hr video of faith in our country, restoration of the faith of our founding fathers in what American could be, and what we hope it will become. With drums and bagpipes of Amazing Grace, and the closing prayer of a Vietnam Veteran which most certainly will bring tears to your eyes a lump in your throat and joy that finally We The People are standing up for restoration of honor in our land.
Glenn Beck's speech is everything the media ignored and little of what they called it. Nothing to do with politics, and everything to do with our American heritage. This speech restores faith that we can and will fundamentally restore the honor and hope our founding fathers proclaimed 240 years ago.
Do yourself a favor and check it out: http://www.glennbeck.com/content/articles/article/198/45013/
Don Poss
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168th engr bn lai khe 1969 a co -- boyd lee bryant (sad), Sun, October 24 2010, 19:46:07 (cache-dtc-aa08.proxy.aol.com/205.188.116.12)
i am looking for other combat engrs from nam i served with in the 20th engr brigade 168th engr bn combat at lai khe in 1969 who might remember me i went by my midd;e name my platoon sgts name was hamilton he called me boyd he was a real good guy iam looking other brother engrs who might remember me for a d a v upgrade im 40 percent d a v i go to out patient mental health every 4 months for pt s d have been going since 1987 then quit for about a year half but went back to out patient mental health was diagnosed with p t s d in 1994 but was never informed just given meds and sent on my way finall talked to another vet who told go see county vetrans service officer he filed letters etc with dav and they went to bat for me i only received for 2007 because i didnt ask what was wrong they didnt have to tell according v a rules if ihad known in 94 it would have been a different story i need lay statements from people who were there in this time zone dec before chrismas 1968 to 19 70 im having health issues plus work related problems i dont care if you were engr grunt medic chopper pilot if you remember lai khe the you remember all those rocket and mortor attacks then you remember rocket city thanks to all who served and are still serving Boyd Lee Bryant
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- Freedom Hill -- Konrad Kottke, Thu, October 21 2010, 20:30:23 (static-67-158-26-77.bhfc.net/67.158.26.77)
I remember Freedom Hill very well, while assigned to the SP’s in 1971 at DaNang, I think the month was either Nov or Dec., my CO was looking for volunteers to go to Freedom Hill and assist the Army MP’s with the security of the gates and perimeter, I know, never volunteer, however, I was getting sick and tired of the Flight Line and Tower duty, so I was sent to Hill 327, my first day there the Army Sergeant of the guard I think that is what they called him handed me an Army Colt 45 ., which I had never shot or had not had any training with, we carried 38’s at the time in the Air Force. Anyway I educated myself on it real fast. We worked 6 hours on and 8 hours off, my second night on duty I was working the entry gate to the facility with another Army Private, I could tell that this private was disturbed; he had recently been in the bush and had been sent to Freedom Hill temporary for some reason I still don’t know what that reason was, anyway, he keep saying t me while we stood in the Gate Shack that he was not going back to the bush no matter what and he was scheduled to go back to his unit in a couple days, around 1:00 or 2:00AM in the morning I was making my rounds around the Cafeteria and I heard a “Bang” and it came from near the gate shack, I ran back and saw this private standing in the middle of the Gate shack with his hand half blown off, I yelled at him “What Happened” and all he said was I’m not going back, I called on the radio for the Sergeant of the guard who responded and said something like “Dam not Another” I had no idea on what he meant at the time, anyway I had to man the gate until 6:00AM by myself, the private was driven to DaNang AB for care, I never heard what ever happened to him, I hated staying in the gate shack, the mess was still left on the ground in the gate shack (bits and pieces of his hand and a lot of blood). The next day I called down to DaNang and talked to my CO., told him what happened and said I want out of here, I left back for DaNang AB.
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Jane Fonda' s Apology -- Joseph Bellantoni (Disgusted), Wed, October 20 2010, 11:49:39 (static-71-184-197-98.bstnma.fios.verizon.net/71.184.197.98)
Jane Fonda's actions in Vietnam were and still are inexcusable....sorry...she should have know better at the time that what she was doing was wrong...and totally unpatriotic.
No apolgy can ever make up for the damage she has done...perhaps she and her husband should set up a Multi million dollar foundation to help Vietnam vet's who are still suffering from their tour of duty in Nam.
She is despicable...sorry and I will never forgive her for what she did. I have even saved some of the paper propaganda that the VC used to drop in our base camps and forward area's and I believe I even have one from "jane fonda".
Joe Bellantoni
101st Airborne Division
Camp Evans and LZ Sally
Aug 68-Aug 69
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- FILM Review: "RED" -- Don Poss, Sat, October 16 2010, 15:51:32 (cpe-75-82-145-91.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.145.91)
Gents: I just saw the just-released movie, "RED". A CIA Spoof that was hilarious! If you liked "Romancing The Stone", "Indiana Jones", or remember the first-time you saw "Home Alone", you will enjoy "RED". Filled with sight-gags and one-liners that will keep you laughing. An 'R' Rating for mild language, but I don't recall anything like that. You can take the kids and the significant other (there's a funny romance-angel to keep her amused), and she won't mind the two or three "tastefully killed" bad guys getting greased. Action, Humor, Adventure, Spies, Russians, Secret Service, FBI, USMC, black helicopters, Bannana-Republics, a million rounds fired (no body hit!) explosions, and a movie the Trailer Adds live up to. Treat yourself and check it out.
Don Poss
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- Anyone knowing Joe Tuck at BearCat 1969 -1970, gunner -240th Greyhounds -- Red Steiner, Mon, September 06 2010, 12:02:18 (adsl-99-184-48-43.dsl.okcyok.sbcglobal.net/99.184.48.43)
Joe Tuck is trying to find his pilot for confirmation of a combat wound from shrapnel. Joe is a good friend and a fellow veteran. Anyone having any information or who knew Joe at BearCat please contact me and I will relay your message to him.
Thanks,
Red Steiner, USAF 1960-1972
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- Oval Office Flag tradition. -- Don Poss, Sun, September 05 2010, 9:32:34 (cpe-75-82-159-66.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.159.66)
It is a White House staff tradition to change the Oval Office rug and flag to reflect Peace or War. During peace time, the flag and rug are changed overnight to the Eagle facing its talon clenching olive branches. If there is a military action, or war, the staff changes the flag and rug to the Eagle facing the talon with arrows.
I watched President Obama’s speech announcing U.S. combat action at an end in Iraq. I noticed the U.S. flag, and the presidential flag behind him, and was interested to note the Eagle was facing to the right at the olive branch.
I hope the flag and carpet displayed are merely an error by staff (which I doubt), as peace is not yet at hand in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the U.S. is still at war with terrorists.
Don Poss
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Replies:
- Recruiting Posters -- Gordon Calhoun, Wed, August 25 2010, 10:57:07 (cpe-75-82-159-66.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.159.66)
Very good collection of recruitment posters! Been looking for a site like this!
Sincerely,
Gordon Calhoun
Editor/Historian
Hampton Roads Naval Museum
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-
FILM Review: Inception -- Don Poss, Wed, July 28 2010, 8:01:35 (cpe-75-82-159-66.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.159.66)
Saturday: My wife said, "Come on...you're taking me to see a movie!" No room for arguement there. We looked at the film trailers and watched "Inception" which was five-star rated.
If you watch the trailer, it is typical in that it sucks you in to the blackhole of hope that you will get your money's worth.
To be fair, it was an action movie with plenty of action (just none of it made sense). It also had good actors in search of good-acting (a decent script would have helped), with a theme about dreams within dreams...which should have been plots-within-plots...or even one plot for that matter.
The bottom line is that Inception was misnamed and should have been named 'Deception' in that its main attempt was to deceive you into think all the special-effects (which weren't so special) amounted to something worth seeing.
I noticed people kept heading for the snack bar, or rest rooms, but no one seemed to return. What's with that? After forty minutes, even my wife couldn't take it anymore...and we walked out to the snack bar and kept right on going (following the crowd) to the car.
Inception/Deception...you had best get your money this weekend. Sweet Dreams.
Don Poss
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- SP4 Merrel P. Whittington. -- James Whittington (???), Wed, July 21 2010, 19:08:43 (c-68-53-78-235.hsd1.tn.comcast.net/68.53.78.235)
I am looking for information about my uncle, SP4 Merrel P. Whittington.
He was an Army Medic with the 173rd Abn Bde B Co 4th Bn 503rd Inf. I believe that he was killed on Nov. 20, 1967 while B Company was trying to relieve the 2nd Battalion paratroopers on Hill 875.
I was 9 years old when he was killed and never had to opportunity to know him. I am hoping to be able to communicate with anyone that knew my uncle and might know more about how he died. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
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Replies:
- Permission to print WWII Posters -- Frank Ryczek, Fri, July 09 2010, 10:27:27 (cpe-75-82-159-66.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.159.66)
Ahoy there, Don- I was just surfing the web when I came across your fantastic site for vintage posters [at: http://www.war-stories.com/war-posters-usa-wars-menu.asp ]
The reason for this e-mail is to ask you if perhaps I can have permission to copy some of these posters to use at our August 20th, 2010 Williams Family YMCA, Mandarin Jacksonville Florida Seniors Dinner Dance. The theme is something that I suggested, I being a WW II scale modeler of PT boats of the South Pacific theathers of operation and a local historian on PT boat history. I want to convert our gym into a USO 1940's Canteen, complete with historical posters and do the whole thing up in red, white, and blue. It will be billed as-" 1940's USO Canteen- A Salute to our Troops and Veterans". The Y has already given me a green light on this idea and our senior members, many veterans themselves are going to be attending!
I would like to copy these WW II posters and then mount them on backing boards to be displayed in the gym and to save them for a possible future event at our YMCA.
Thank you for a truly wonderful web site, Don! I have visited many sites relating to WW II Posters, but yoiurs is truly unique with many posters I have viewed for the first time. Thanks again!
Frank Ryczek, Jr.
Williams Family YMCA- Mandarin Jacksonville, FL
Events organizer- "USO 1940's Canteen Dinner Dance"
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Replies:
- Iraq Terrorist War ending in Aug 2011 -- Victory or Defeat -- Don Poss, Fri, July 09 2010, 7:14:33 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
Gents:
A simple question in comparison as to how will Iraq be viewed in five years -- Victory or Defeat:
If the United States brings home its combat troops from Iraq in August 2011, and then in 2013-ish, the Iraq nation is overwhelmed and defeated by the Taliban or terrorist units, will the Media then brand the Iraq War a U.S. defeat-- even though our combat troops left two years previously? Or does it matter which U.S. political party or president is in power come in to play as to defining what is Victory or Defeat?
The time-span of two years (a 'decent interval' as Henry Kissinger phrased it) would be the same length of time as when combat troops left Vietnam in 1973, and Saigon RVN fell in 1975.
Don Poss
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Replies:
- Names of lost men Liberty Bridge Vietnam 1967 -- Fabio Allodoli, Wed, July 07 2010, 12:04:47 (cpe-76-175-66-222.socal.res.rr.com/76.175.66.222)
Hello,
My Name is Fabio Allodoli.
I am trying to locate two fellow KIA Veterans from Vietnam 1967, with I believe were with 3/7 India Co, or possibly Kilo. I have been trying to locate these men for 6 years, now and I have not been successful.
I have tried this site in the past but no luck.
I was in Nam in 1967, and 1968, with the Navy as a Seabee with MCB4 “C”. I was one of the original men of about 35 men who built the Liberty Bridge from the beginning on April 67 to the end of September 67.
While there we knew most everyone of the Marines, as we worked with them. There were two men whom I had gotten to know each other somewhat, and on one evening myself and another men were talking to these two men as they were preparing to leave on an LP.
We said see you later, and watched them disappear in the night. Later never came to them as they were ambushed about 1 click out. I was sitting inside a tank talking with one of the crewmen and listening to the chatter on the radio from the men to the CP. Last sound I heard from them was when they were reporting that they had heard some movements nearby. Seconds later we hear an explosions and the radio went silent I bailed out of the tank, as the rest of the crew boarded, and went out to support them. About a half hour later the tanks returned with their bodies, and we unloaded them to stretchers.
I used to have their names but in a couple of moves I have made lost their names. I would like to be able to find their names for a couple of reasons.
That particular Bridge was the longest bridge built in Vietnam, 2,040’ long. I know that there were many more casualties and KIA while there in Arizona Territory. But these two men I knew were attached as one of the companies with the bridge, I also believe there was Kilo Co, and Lima, I do not remember all of them. I know there was a sweep team that got wiped out around June July I think, but do not remember if they were also attached with the Companies providing security for us. If there were other men that where KIA or wounded, and you know how to get their names then I will list all of them on my web site and project.
One, I belong to an Organization called Point Man International Ministries, which was started 26 years ago by Vietnam Vets for the purpose of helping all our Brothers who served in Nam and all past and present wars who struggle with the aftermath of war, PTSD. I have a web site, which also shows the Liberty Bridge, and I want to have their names listed by the Photos, and give them Honor.
Two, I am in the process of constructing an exact scaled down replica of that Bridge, with all the surroundings and donate it to the new Seabee Museum which is now in very early stages of construction. The names of those Marines will also be listed on the Bridge info and all the casualties.
So I need some help and hopefully you might be able to help me.
The time that those boys died was either July or August of 1967.
Thank you.
In His service
Semper Duris
Fabio Allodoli
805 983-3686
fallodoli@roadrunner.com
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Replies:
- All my memiores -- Christopher Tammarine, Sat, July 03 2010, 7:52:42 (cpe-98-28-77-103.columbus.res.rr.com/98.28.77.103)
Just wanted to say how much i enjoy reading and looking at all the old photos of Da Nang and Ban me thuot and Tuy hoa,there are so many feelings after all these years that i still hold inside,so many are good and a few that are bad...I enjoy reading all the Christmas letters that were writen by my brothers that served in Nam,after readng them i just sit here for a few minutes with a smile on my face..
God bless
Tam......
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- Tuy Hoa July 1968 -- Aletta, Sat, June 19 2010, 18:41:34 (cache01.dca.untd.com/64.136.27.225)
A few months ago, I posted a message. I had the date wrong. My husband was a firefighter with the Army at Tuy Hoa. I am having trouble verifing an incident by goverment records. Does anyone know how I can get goverment records on the incident on July 29,1968 at Tuy Hoa? I read about it, but I need offical doc.
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Replies:
- Request Permission to post 'Warriors Last Prayer' -- Archie Parsons, Thu, June 17 2010, 8:33:04 (cpe-75-82-156-229.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.156.229)
Good morning, I would like to ask permission to use your poem, Warriors Last Prayer (http://www.vspa.com/dn-poss-warriors-last-prayer-1966.htm) for posting on the Warriors Watch web page. This particular page is for posting for family members who have lost a loved one serving in the military.
In case you have not heard of our group. We provide Motorcycle and car support. We are ask by loved ones to provide welcome homes and flag line support, we also provide flag line during wakes and escorts for the funeral and flag line support at the gravesite.
I am an old Viet Nam combat medic who averages 3 to 5 missions a week doing these worth causes. I am also part Cherokee and Choctaw and wanna be I guess. Anyhow after the tears cleared from reading your poem I thought if allowed it could be used when I post condolences to family and friends of our lost Warriors. I will be sure to post full credit with your name each time it is used.
Thank You for your time.
Archie
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Replies:
- hill 327 68-69 -- mike nestor (rembering), Sun, June 13 2010, 9:31:09 (c-68-84-92-217.hsd1.tn.comcast.net/68.84.92.217)
I was attached to a lamb outfit on top hill 327,was there when the ammo dump went off,also when we were attacked on I beleive mothers day 1969,they got inside our perimer,blew up one of the hawk launchers,wounded,and we loss cpl sickles,anyone remember that?
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- War-Stories' Store Reopens Under New Management -- Don Poss, Wed, June 09 2010, 13:07:11 (cpe-75-82-156-229.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.156.229)
Gents and Ladies:
As you may know, Bob Kehoe, WS Store previous manager, passed away recently after an extended bout with cancer. His family decided to retire and not continue managing the store. We wish Bob's family the best as always, and pray that he is now a rest and in peace.
Life goes on, and War-Stories is pleased to announce our Store has reopened under new management. We invite you to check out the thousands of military collectibles at War-Stories Store at
<http://www.war-stories.com/aspprotect/shop/default.asp>, where the public is always welcome, and login is not required.
Don Poss,
Webmaster at War-Stories.com, since 1995
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- sp/4 Charles Carpenter -- Chelle Carpenter-Whitney, Mon, May 31 2010, 21:16:53 (97-92-60-219.dhcp.aldl.mi.charter.com/97.92.60.219)
I just found your site.My grandma gave me a letter dad wrote from the the LZ NORTH.My dad was SP/4Charles(chuck)Carpenter from Kalamazoo,MI..The info on the envelope read hhc 4/31 196th aposf 96374. dad never said much about his time in nam.
dad died 5/5/2007 of cancer.they told us 2/19/2007 and he was gone in a blink of an eye.if anyone remembers my dad i would love to hear from you.i have two photo albums full of pic's but no names, but allot of empty beer cans.I'm sure they were all planted our boys would never drink...lol
thank you chelle
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- Death of War-Stories' Store Manager -- Don Poss, Sat, May 15 2010, 11:40:11 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
Gents and Ladies:
War-Stories regrets to announce that our Store Manager, Bob Kohoe died suddenly after an extended fight with cancer. The military store will reopen in approximately one week and continue under the management of Bob's family, which has helped with daily operation of the store since opening.
Services will be private and the family askes that no flowers be sent, per Bob's wishes. Your thoughts and prayers for the family and friends are appreciated.
Bob was a great guy and will be missed by all.
Don Poss,
War-Stories Webmaster.
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Replies:
- Bob Hope, Da Nang, 1966 -- Philip Monteleone, Wed, May 12 2010, 21:42:09 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
Don, This was great, it took me back to that exact moment in time, I was also there.
L/Cpl Philip Monteleone, VMFA 115F-4s
Danang
1965-66
Semper Fi
See:
http://www.war-stories.com/aspprotect/dn-poss-bob-hope-1966-2.asp?zoom_highlight=%22Bob+Hope%22
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- Regarding War-Stories Memorial Wall-Z -- John Harter, Thu, May 06 2010, 9:02:13 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
From: JOHN HARTER [mailto:jondonharter@verizon.net]
Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 2010 1:46 PM
To: webmaster@war-stories.com
Subject: Regarding War-Stories Memorial Wall-Z
Thanks for sharing the picture, Francis was a great guy.
John Harter
http://www.war-stories.com/wall-h.asp
http://www.war-stories.com/t_hart-ellis-bart-kethcart-1970.asp?zoom_highlight=Francis
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- looking for contacts -- anderson, mark, Mon, May 03 2010, 17:42:52 (doc-24-32-68-166.ftsill.ok.cebridge.net/24.32.68.166)
well long story short my dad served there in nam for the TET 1968 and under the comand of cpt pane! and since then im in the army know 13yrs. i just wanted to get some contacts from his commrads so he could talk to them. he was in the 120th assault platoon and at hotel 3. so if some one could point me in the right direction?
heres my cell 580-354-6210
thank you again
SSG ANDERSON , MARK
FT, SILL OK
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- Suggestion for your web page! -- Elizabeth Bailey, Fri, April 30 2010, 11:45:55 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
From: elizabeth@edu-student-mail.org [mailto:elizabeth@edu-student-mail.org]
Sent: Friday, April 30, 2010 11:02 AM
To: Webmaster@war-stories.com; larry@larryposs.com
Subject: Suggestion for your web page!
Hi Don!
My name is Elizabeth Bailey and I wanted to provide feedback on your page. I want to tell you that as a student teacher working on a lesson plan, your page was a great source of information.
As a thank you, I thought I'd suggest an additional resource in case you were looking to replace it. I've been using material from this page (http://www.usa-people-search.com/content-a-timeline-of-world-war-ii.aspx). It has a ton of information on WWII that you may find useful.
Thanks Again :)
Elizabeth Bailey
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- Warrior's Last Prayer -- Ben Quinney, Mon, April 26 2010, 12:38:41 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
Mr. Don Poss,
I want to thank you for your Poem “Warrior’s Last Prayer.” With your permission I would like to use it in a Memorial Day letter I would send to our Clients and Friends. Please let me know if you are OK with this. I would add the copyright listed on the website on the letter. It will not be used as a solicitation in anyway. It will simply go to honor those that have fallen to protect this great nation. Thank you.
Thanks,
Ben Quinney
Director of Marketing, Mid-America Region
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Replies:
- OUTBACK Restaurant Veterans' Rip Off -- Don Poss, Tue, April 06 2010, 7:58:16 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
Gents:
My brother Larry is slow to anger but is royally pissed at OutBack restaurants. He went to OutBack because they are advertising a Veterans' Special menu from which they will donate One Dollar to veterans' groups. Sounds fine to me. While looking at the Outback's 'Special Menu' he noted the price was exactly the same as for the 'Regular Menu', and wondered what might be different. The Regular Menu comes with a Salad...the 'thank you very much Veteran' Menu--does not! So -- Outback -- just who the BLANK is 'donating' a Dollar to veterans? Seems to me you are RIPPING OFF Veterans while waving a Flag.
It will be a VERY long time before either Larry or I go to Outbacks--and I hope you consider doing likewise.
Check out their March Menu Veterans' Special at
http://outback.com/companyinfo/thanksforgiving.aspx
Don't bother looking for the Menu -- you won't find it!
Don Poss
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Replies:
- Trying to reach Russ "Gus" Reynolds -- Mary Bell Lunsford, Fri, February 26 2010, 22:59:08 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
Mr. Reynolds wrote a story about the Mother's Day POWs on May 11, 1969. My brother Malcolm Frank Bell was one of the 11 KIA that day. I would like to reach him via e-mail if possible.
Respectfully,
Mary Bell Lunsford
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Replies:
- American Warrior, Home at Last -- Justin Leow, Sun, January 31 2010, 22:59:29 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
Dear Don Poss,
I would like to use your essay "American Warrior, Home at Last," and cite it in one of my papers. I would give you proper credit and not claim it as my own . I would only be using a sentence or two of the essay in quotations. I would also be willing to send you a final copy of the essay if you would like to make sure it is used in a context that respectful of the monument. There simply is not enough
written about the riverside memorial. I feel the essay has a certain first person account that I would like to include. I would permission to use it in my essay for a college art history class. Please get back to me when you can thank you.
Justin Leow
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- War-Stories' Memorial Wall -- Art Dembinski, Sun, January 31 2010, 13:42:31 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
Attached is a PDF including a memorial I made to my cousin John L Burgess, KIA in Viet Nam in 1970. He was an Ottawa Indian, 2 brothers & 2 sisters belong to the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians. He was not recorded as Native American because he was adopted as an infant. Full details are in it.
Art Dembinski
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Replies:
- 24 Series - Review -- Don Poss, Wed, January 20 2010, 7:39:35 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
24 TV Series Review
Full disclosure: I am a 24 junkie and have all the released 24 DVDs. Unlike previous electrifying 24 Seasons, this year’s 24 Season Premiere (Season Eight, Episodes 1-4) failed to establish a reason why anyone should care enough to Tivo the rest of the season.
It’s not too late to slip in a real reason viewers should want the just-another Arab president-king-dictator to live. How about: If Jack can keep him alive 24 hours the dictator will give us .29 cent a gallon gas? Or he wants to wear a sandwich board endorsing Sarah Palin and Rev Wright? Or, wants to open a carwash next door to General Ky's Am-PM? Or, he just accepted Jesus and wants to construct Baptist churches all over the Middle East? Or he wants to give every American a million dollars and bring back gas-guzzling American power-cars? Or more believable, the dictator doesn’t want the Israelis to turn his sandbox into a glass parking lot, and a signed treaty might delay for a couple of weeks the imminent and inevitable nuclear war in the Middle East?
Currently, in Season Eight, the U.S. president wants a ‘deal’ with a good-guy Arab president-for-life-dictator who wants to give up his nukes. Yawn. Give me a break! Already the basic synopsis is flawed. I mean, really, ‘a good-guy Arab potentate’ who wants to give up his nukes while cheating on his wife and breathing-heavily with a blonde bimbo liberal reporter? And that is suppose to support all that follows?
Nevertheless, CTU is still easily penetrated by spies and a sink-hole of government bureaucratic incompetence. Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland) is doing what he does best by assisting various nasty-guys in assuming room-temperature (Yawn). Chloe O’Brian (Mary Lynn Rajskub), plays the same character overcoming obstacles and is perfect for her role. Katee Sackoff (Starbuck on Battlestar Galactica) plays a more sophisticated character and reinforces that she is genuinely the sexist lady on TV.
The first 24 season was electrifying and cost me a lot of lost sleep. The bad guys were going to nuke L.A. (some parts could still use renovating) which would probably screw up rush hour traffic even more than normal but also, god forbid—take out the Hollywood sign—now that was a reason to TiVo.
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- USAF Base Attacks -- Fred Shine (USN), Sun, January 17 2010, 15:35:54 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
I happened upon your post. I have a friend who is listed as having been killed at Bien Hoa, January 31st, 1968, while attached to Company C 52nd, Inf, 95th MP BN, 89th MP Group, and listed as killed by Artillery, rocket, mortor fire. His name was John "Jackie" Fullerton Jr., from Wilmington Massachusetts. All the history listings, I have found, record only ONE man, from that unit as being killed, at Bien Hoa that day, but none of them list the individuals name. I believe it was Jackie, and have been searching for 40 years to find someone, anyone, who was at that base that day, and remembers Jackie. There are conflicting reports of "where" he was killed. Officially he is listed as killed at Bien Hoa, while the family has been contacted by men stationed at the Embassy in Saigon, who claim Jackie was actually killed (by rocket) in the alleyway, on route to BOQ#3, while T.A.D. to the 716th MP's. Jackie, we know, was wounded three times, and was sent to Saigon for discharge, He was scheduled to be discharged n February 11th, 1968, and perhaps he was sent from Bien Hoa, to Saigon. Does Jackie's name ring a bell?
Does anyone who was stationed at Bien Hoa at that time that may remember him? Thank you for you time, and your service!
Fred Shine
USN Vietnam 1968-1970
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Replies:
- Permission to Reprint 'Three Sisters' -- Francisco Muniz III, Editor VVA-NYSC, Wed, January 13 2010, 20:13:11 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
Welcome Home:
I am the editor of the INTERCHANGE, Vietnam Veterans of America - New York State Council (VVA-NYSC) On-Line newspaper. I am writing to request Permission to Reprint the story by Michael Herrera, entitled Three Sisters.
Many of our Vietnam members like to read on these types of stories. Full recognition to author and publisher will be posted at end of article.
You could visit our web site at WWW.NYVIETNAMVETS.ORG and link to our INTERCHANGE site to view our paper. We have had the honor of being chosen twice the State Council Newspaper of the Year Award.
I was based in Phuoc Vinh with Co B, 1st Bn, 2nd Inf, First Infantry Division in the years 1965 to 1966 in the Michelin Rubber Plantation. I returned to Vietnam, two years ago, but was not allowed to enter the village because the Vietnamese is using our military base as their own.
Hoping to hear from you, in a timely manner, I remain
Yours truly,
Francisco Muniz III
Editor
VVA-NYSC
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Replies:
- Teaching 'Charity' -- Don Poss, Sun, December 27 2009, 7:05:44 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
My daughter was trying to teach her 5 years old son what 'charity' meant at Christmas. She suggested to him that he had so many new toys that he should go to his room and put some of his old toys he no longer played with in a box, so they might be given to little boys that have nothing. This was a shocking concept with a simple solution. After a few minutes he came out of his room with the box loaded with ... his brother's toys. :-)
Maybe next year...
Don Poss
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Replies:
- Parallel between Afghanistan and Vietnam? -- Don Poss, Tue, December 22 2009, 0:48:53 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
A friend today asked if I thought there is a parallel between Afghanistan and Vietnam. I thought you might care to read my reply to him:
Jackie:
We do not go to war to honor warriors. We honor warriors because they fought our country's battles. We are at war today directly because of Islamic-fascism’s 9-11 attack upon our country, whereas thousands of innocent Americans died.
Many of today's fallen American warriors were only ten or eleven years of age on September 11, 2001. Many yet to fall have not even drawn their first breath of life. It is even possible our young grandchildren will be called to serve.
Warring against another nation is never easy, but we did not ask for this fight, nor did we quake when it was thrust upon us. We must not despair. We must be certain of purpose to exact a measured-vengeance and lay waste to their lands-of-shelter. Yet such directed-certainty is possible only when the heart of an eagle and poet beats within the breast of our president.
Warring against a sect of an ideology is to slice the air with a sword in hope of drawing blood. But strike-away we must until the heavens are free from their naked evil. There is no other choice than victory against a tyranny that would see our nation dead.
Our sons and daughters will step forward to do what must be done. The question posed is whether we will stand behind them in support and with determined vigilance. I fear the answer our soft nation may soon voice, but the terrorists surely fear our warriors even more so--and well they should.
I pray for safety and strength for our troops, and that our enemies will turn from their dark path of evil. Until then, I do not view Afghanistan as 'another Vietnam.' I do not see any parallel other than to recognize victory or defeat will be upon the heads of those who govern our nation. There were only imaginary dominoes falling before the Vietnam War. I do not need to see the annual TV replay of the twin-towers falling to understand why we are fighting today...and with the briefest pause I can see our fellow Americans falling in my minds-eye and hear the brutal slap of pavement.
Afghanistan another Vietnam? I think not. We must win this one.
Don Poss
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- Pearl Harbor, Dec 7th 1941 -- Don Poss, Mon, December 07 2009, 12:03:24 (cpe-75-82-155-89.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.155.89)
Gents:
President Roosevelt described the Japanese's attack on Pearl Harbor as "a date which will live in infamy".
Three weeks ago, my wife and I were at the Punch Bowl cemetery near Pearl Harbor, where hundreds of Dec 7th KIAs are buried, along with thousands of WWII KIAs. We placed our flowers on her uncle's gravestone, noting the Dec 7th engraved date. We also noted there were very few flowers on graves throughout the cemetery.
Is it fair to say that 'December 7th' is not a date that lived in infamy? Just ask your kids, grandkids, or young adults for that matter, what happened on that date...and you will be met with a blank stare.
Don Poss
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- Major Elijah (Buddy) G. Tollett, IV -- Joan Odom (bittersweet), Mon, November 16 2009, 18:51:02 (host-63-135-183-23.twlakes.net/63.135.183.23)
Major Tollett was my Uncle Buddy. He was like a god to us kids as he could master anything. I know he was a bit ashamed of being navigator rather than pilot, due to color blindness which runs in our men. He was as handsome as a movie star and he loved me very much. I saw his widow, Aunt Polly, just a couple of weeks ago. She loves Buddy now as she always has. I have tears creeping out of the corners of my eyes. I was never fully informed re the particulars of Uncle Bud's death. It grieves me to think of that proud, beautiful head possibly removed from his precious body. I had to know, and I thank you. However, I choose to see him on the golf course, in the sun, drving the hell out of the ball and grinning...
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- ARMISTICE SONNET -- Teddy Rex Patton II (HONOR), Sat, November 14 2009, 17:13:58 (c-98-228-22-243.hsd1.in.comcast.net/98.228.22.243)
~~~ PEACE LIGHTS OUR EYES ~~~
Peace walks a way more beautiful than moonlight.
Bright, as from its own light; shines o'er land and sea.
We must remember Peace, what it was and is:
fearless in the face of Fate. Youth's pure courage.
Striving, "Peace Must Conquer!" -— not just breaK even.
The hope of our Age, Youth's brave eyes, smiles still bless;
comforting focus warming: Joys from heaven.
We're calmed: the quiet, soft blessings of God's Peace.
Peace's tears drop softly; our salt offerings.
As life grows older, our praying knees spring up,
kept free, honored to salute Peace's sunlight.
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- The Honor Goes To Them Where They Fell -- Teddy Rex Patton II, Sat, November 14 2009, 17:10:35 (c-98-228-22-243.hsd1.in.comcast.net/98.228.22.243)
NOT FLANDERS FIELDS
In desert sands no poppies grow;
unmarked, no crosses, row on row.
3Young lives cut down; Youth tarries, dead.
Hopes hover high; mem'ries un-fled,
still held despite the fate we know.
'Spite death, Peace lives--unbowed-- to show
yon lives the way Justice must flow,
for ardor and fervor have never yielded.
In desert sands no poppies grow.
Truth rose, fought darkness, met all foes,
wrestled, won; failed, again rose!
Guard Peace's journey through blackness wide.
Take Peace's torch! Hold high with pride!
Cowards lack the will that Heroes know!
In desert sands no poppies grow.
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- To Veterans Who Are Still Dying, From Viet Nam -- Teddy Rex Patton II (Teddy Rex Patton), Sat, November 14 2009, 17:05:22 (c-98-228-22-243.hsd1.in.comcast.net/98.228.22.243)
A SEASON FOR PEACE
A season for Peace as Ages flow;
Man's heart the Spring of Hope shall know.
Pale death and war confined to one grave;
Peace, Freedom, and Truth both humble and brave,
Just Trio of Peace shall flourish and grow.
Passively vanquished, Man's wrack and God's woe!
Man lives together -- no rival, no foe.
War gone, Life flourishes, to Summer a slave;
a season for Peace as Ages flow.
A debt to Summer Autumn shall owe,
with Peace in full bloom, its harvest in throe.
The calm Peace of Winter our homes will soon have,
enjoying the sweet fruit Peace's preparation gave.
Our sharp, burnished plow-shares no battles now know.
A season for Peace as Ages flow.
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- Honor to our veterans -- Teddy Rex Patton II, Sat, November 14 2009, 16:59:56 (c-98-228-22-243.hsd1.in.comcast.net/98.228.22.243)
Some heartfelt tribute to veterans who may have missed the honor due them.
To Veterans and Fallen of All Wars
O'er Countless Graves
O'er countless graves our teardrops flow
to earth to nourish mem'ries that grow.
Cherished the place, beloved each face,
each sparce, narrow garden is a holy place;
those whose love turned grief now know.
Strong word is "Love", despite Death's throe.
'Tis sunrise there, still night here below.
Peaceful Love with Stately Grief God doth replace,
o'er countless graves.
Take up their dream! They tell us, "GO !
Liberty 's strong thread, run it ! So
our hopes, dreams, fires of Soul may pace
yet coming runners in Life's race,
and win!" 'Though Death counts countless tears
. . . . . o'er countless graves.
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- Movie Recommendation: 'A Christmas Carol', iMax 3D -- Don Poss, Fri, November 13 2009, 15:43:29 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Gents & Ladies:
If you liked the traditional 'A Christmas Carol' by Charles Dickens, then you will really enjoy the just released version. I highly recommend seeing this new outstanding version that is in iMax and 3D. The 3D glasses worn are the polarized type and do not cause eye strain at all. The movie is animated, but if you saw the animated film, 'Polar Express', then you know the quality of animation comes very close to life-like characters.
The film may not be suitable for very young grandkids, as some parts could be too scary for them.
Check out the Film Trailer in HD at http://www.trailerspy.com/trailer/5347/A-Christmas-Carol-Trailer-HD
Don Poss,
War-Stories Webmaster
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- Veterans Day -- Jay Gearhart (Thanks Brothers), Fri, November 13 2009, 15:31:47 (97-83-98-119.dhcp.trcy.mi.charter.com/97.83.98.119)
Thank you, to all Veterans, from all branches on this Veterans Day, 2009.Can you imagine how we would have felt, coming back from the Nam, to have the public treat us the way the the new veterans are being treated. Thank God we are treating them as they deserve , Hero's, every one.
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- Locate info: D Battery, 6th Bn, 56th Art (HAWK) missile unit. Bien Hoa Airbase -- John Mayfield, Sun, November 01 2009, 10:55:30 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Hello,
My name is John Mayfield I am trying to location information on D Battery, 6th Battalion, 56th Artillery (HAWK) a HAWK missile unit station at Bien Hoa Airbase from Sept 1965 to Sept 1968. The missile battery was located in the north west area of the base. I am trying to located pictures, maps or other items that would give the location of the battery.
Thanks for any help you can give.
John Mayfield
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- Blin Bats Lt Col Earl J. Fitzsimmons -- David Schachle, Sun, November 01 2009, 10:26:58 (adsl-068-157-235-226.sip.mem.bellsouth.net/68.157.235.226)
My Grandfather was Lt Col Earl J Fitzsimmons. I wanted to know more about him as I was only 12 when he passed away. I know he was part of the Blind Bats, I have one of his Blind Bat hats. I would love to find out more. My grandmothes's health is failing and Im trying to get some info together for her as a gift. If you can help let me know.
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- War-Stories.com - Always a Positive! -- Jay Gearhert, 299th CBT Engr BT, Sun, November 01 2009, 10:00:27 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Hey , Don. Just a little note too tell you that your site is ALWAYS a positive for me. Keep up the good work. Jay
Jaybird
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- FREE Adobe Products Updates -- Don Poss, Wed, October 21 2009, 17:58:14 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Gents & Ladies:
Once more it is time to take advantage of War-Stories's Troubleshooting Pages and download the several recent FREE Adobe Products Updates <http://www.war-stories.com/aspprotect/ws-troubleshooting-2-2.asp> . I recommend that all IExplorer users do so asap as War-Stories.com's website uses the current versions of these products.
Note: Make sure to check or uncheck optional boxes that may install a Google Toolbar or offer to check your system for errors (I uncheck those boxes).
Don Poss,
War-Stories.com Webmaster
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- Re: Co C 5th Bn 7th Cav 1st Cav Div (air) -- Miguel Bustillo (Cuban), Fri, October 09 2009, 12:04:31 (adsl-065-006-172-009.sip.mia.bellsouth.net/65.6.172.9)
I had the privilege to have served in D Co. 5 Bn 7 Cav. June to Sept. 1967. You can be sure that your cousin was one hell of a guy and that he was a real American patriot.
I never met him personally but I know... I knew his character for it was no different than thousands of other brave ones. Rest assure... your cousin was a true American patriot.
To this day I pray every night for the souls of all those brave fallen Americans. My gratitude goes to all of them. They took care of me as I was also taking care of them. The bonding was incredible... after 4 decades I still cry for them. God bless their souls. Nicknamed: Cuban.
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- Film Review: "DISTRICT 9" -- Don Poss, Fri, October 02 2009, 21:56:32 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Gents:
It’s been a long time since I walked out of a movie because it stunk worse than Mamasan’s clothes washing-water.
I was hoping to see a good action movie along the line of “Independence Day” and thought “District 9” might fill that bill. So very wrong! You might like the movie if you like events from the point of view of a drooling milk-sop liberal as portrayed by today's drooling milk-sop left-wing media types -- I don’t, and I didn’t like the movie. Every other word is the F-bomb, and in case you missed that, there are sub-titles spelling out the F-bomb for you in BOLD letters.
"District 9" is without a coherent plot. There are no interaction between actors/characters. Even the nasty marooned space aliens want to leave Earth (and the theatre)! There simply is no reason to go and see the film. It is presented entirely from a media newscast viewpoint of those events, and worse yet, seen through the eyes of the news camera pointed at talking media-heads who are definitely a C-rated News-Team.
I am not sure if the film was foreign made, but it certainly comes off at that low level of quality and feeling (perhaps if it were filmed in black-and-white it would have had a more artsy-trashy appeal?).
I do NOT recommend going to see “District 9”. I do NOT recommend renting the DVD (it will probably be available in a week or two). And no, I still do NOT recommend reusing Mamasan’s clothes washing-water. Thumbs definitely Down.
Don Poss
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- Operation Juction City and Cedar Falls -- James Furney (curious), Fri, October 02 2009, 21:53:55 (h170.27.131.174.dynamic.ip.windstream.net/174.131.27.170)
I am looking for any Veterans who participated in these operations to share information about what it was like being there. I have an uncle who was killed in action in 1967 and he participated in these operations as a member of the 82nd Airborne. Any info will be appreciated. Thanks
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Replies:
- Two Vietnam veterans are welcomed home after serving in Iraq.... -- Bill Morris, Tue, September 29 2009, 20:32:21 (68-187-33-39.dhcp.ftwo.tx.charter.com/68.187.33.39)
Two Vietnam veterans are welcomed home after serving in Iraq.
Copy and paste the below for the video (there might be a short commercial first):
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2009/07/30/dunn.vietnam.vets.WZTV?iref=videosearch
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- The haunting account of James B. Jones -- Rich Robbins, Sat, September 26 2009, 18:38:31 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Just read the haunting account of James B. Jones [http://www.war-stories.com/t_jbj-dn-poss-1966-1.asp], who died in 1966, the year I graduated from high school. I am a newspaper reporter and yesterday spoke to a Marine veteran suffering with PTSD. I noticed Jones was from Alexandria Bay, N.Y. When I was in the Army Reserves and posted to Camp Drum in Watertown in the early 1970s for summer training, a group of us made excursions to Alexandria Bay to drink and meet girls. It never crossed my mind that in that lovely setting resided a family which lost so much in the war. God bless them. God bless us all.
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Replies:
- Looking for SFC Kenneth Mason and SFC Jackie Keith -- George Slook, Mon, September 21 2009, 7:47:13 (c-68-38-106-252.hsd1.pa.comcast.net/68.38.106.252)
Looking for SFC Kenneth Mason and SFC Jackie Keith, Team 22 Signal Advisors, with regard to the 1SG Janca incident of October 13, 1970.
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- Memorial Flag Request -- April Brown, Sat, September 12 2009, 18:30:44 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Hi, my name is April Brown. I would like to have a Flag beside my Uncle's name. Here is the information:
BEACH HAROLD DEAN CPL E3 A 19500828 19690509 BOONE NC 25W 027.
Thank you so much. This really means a lot to the family.
April Brown
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Replies:
- Re: operation kingfisher 1967 -- Peter, Sun, September 06 2009, 12:11:22 (ool-43520cfe.dyn.optonline.net/67.82.12.254)
Was the book publised? I was a 60's squad leader. One of my guys was the last Marine killed around 2-3 that night according to some reports I've read recently.
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Replies:
- Back from Vietnam -- Thomas Tessier, Thu, August 20 2009, 14:50:11 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Back from Vietnam in time to tip a legal cool one with Tommy my son on his 21st birthday today.
As soon as I finish my written thoughts and daily diary of the trip and figure out how to sort the pictures I will get it out.
The trip was interesting yet somewhat disappointing. Also experienced stronger emotions than I anticipated especially near the 051 bunker area where the battle for TSN TET '68 took place, and my friend Ric and I laid a wreath for all the fallen for both sides.
Saigon, Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang and Dong Ha are beautiful where tourists travel, but poor areas are unchanged except for TV and internet. The heat and humidity was as bad or worse than I remembered.
Happy to be back in the USA !
Thomas Tessier
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Replies:
- Gloria Anne Redlin - Friendly Fire Casualty 10/21/70 -- George Slook, Sun, August 16 2009, 6:13:05 (c-68-38-106-252.hsd1.pa.comcast.net/68.38.106.252)
George Slook, 4th Infantry Division, Central Highlands, 1969-70 seeks comrades, friends, and family of Gloria Anne Redlin. Gloria was shot in country on October 13, 1970 and died of her wounds on October 21st. All public accounts of her death indicate she died on June 8, 1969. There is also other misinformation about her in the public record. Any and all information would be appreciated.
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- Re: VIETNAM -- william o. smith (grateful!), Sun, August 16 2009, 0:34:16 (74.214.179.60.prtc-dsl.dhcp.prtcnet.org/74.214.179.60)
i was at danang from 1972-1973 when all was over. ican assure you there was plenty of rocket activity as well as a squadron of off target f-4s that scored a direct hit on our fuel storage tanks (that burned for days) and a number of other structures. i believe an all out effort was made to utilize every unused remaining rocket before the cease fire went into effect.
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- Military Ringtones? Sprint cell phone ring tones. -- Howard Yates?, Fri, August 14 2009, 12:43:19 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Don, Do you know of a web site that offers Military Ringtones?
Howard Yates
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Replies:
- Ranking Value between Michael Jackson vs. KIA deaths -- Don Poss, Mon, July 13 2009, 5:05:52 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
The debate continues concerning national priorities for dwelling upon the death of a social icon versus ongoing deaths of warriors fighting to defend the nation against another terrorist attack.
I believe the heartland of America knows and values the difference. Consider that Fox News conducted a “man on the street interview” during the Michael Jackson media feeding frenzy, asking graduating students basic questions. Their answers were appalling. For instance, a few questions asked were:
Q. What nations border the United States of America? A. Alaska; Australia; Florida.
Q. How many stars are on the USA flag (pointing to a flag on a flagpole)? A. (Student looking at flying flag) it’s moving too fast to count them.
Q. How many brothers did Michael Jackson have? A. Four (correct).
Q. Who is the Vice President of the United States? A. Palin?
The point being…the students questioned were the graduate-products and representative failures of our educational process and system. Any appeal to their collective common-sense to prioritize a list valuing and honoring deaths of a pop-hero and military heroes will always result in the drug abuser, child molester, and known pervert soaring to the top of the list. That is what they were taught.
One solution is a return to a basic educational process whereas unrevised history, the King’s English, world geography, advanced math, a love of country and the principles of democracy and republican form of government as founded upon, and embracing Judeo-Christian beliefs, are instilled in students’ DNA and the hearts of their professors. That is unlikely to happen.
We license drivers and in my opinion should license voters. An interpretation of the 15th Amendment to the Constitution could deny the above graduating college students permission to vote until obtaining a base knowledge in the above. Today, a high school diploma no longer assures a foundation-knowledge was taught nor achieved. Unfortunately, neither does a secondary-education nor advanced degrees.
Don Poss
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Replies:
- Some Songs I Wrote -- Dwight Jenkins, Tue, July 07 2009, 19:27:22 (pool-70-109-107-12.alb.east.verizon.net/70.109.107.12)
Hey Guys,
I'm glad you're home. I've met many of you over the years and heard some stories that will stick with me forever. They demanded a poem, or a song. The attached link will take you to acidplanet.com, a legit music site for guys with day jobs, like me. It's not a sales pitch, the music is free for the listening. "A Man Named Clay," "Riverine Assault Flotilla," and "Bad Trip" are about you. I hope you like them. See http://www.acidplanet.com/artist.asp?songs=617828&t=5595.
Semper Fi,
Dwight Jenkins
USMC 1979-1991
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- July 4th Holiday -- Don Poss, Sun, July 05 2009, 1:43:58 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
I hope that everyone had a safe and happy 4th of July holiday!
Don Poss
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- A Veteran's Merry Christmas -- Caitlin Bea (Sad), Fri, June 12 2009, 4:41:06 (NoHost/74.63.85.60)
This poem is honestly extremely touching. It makes you think of when us, as kids are home on Christmas getting presents or eating or just spending time with family, this Vietnam soldier is surviving instead of enjoying Christmas. It should make us appreciate more, that we have Christmas at home and not in terror.I hope now, that these soldiers can have good Christmas's with their family, or loved ones.
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- Regarding War-Stories Memorial Wall-Native Americans -- Richard E. Mayer, Thu, June 11 2009, 14:13:28 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Myron Johnson is from Mandaree North Dakota, and he is Mandan and Hidatsa Native American. James Levings, is also Mandan Hidatsa.
Thanks,
Richard Mayer
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Replies:
- Kaboom! -- Nick M (Interested), Tue, June 09 2009, 7:37:04 (NoHost/74.63.85.60)
I find it funny how seriously careful everyone had to be to avoid situations like this. It's interesting how his pin got pulled and set off some kind of domino type of explosion. Very interesting.
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- Hand Jive -- Nick M (Surprised), Tue, June 09 2009, 7:21:37 (NoHost/74.63.85.62)
I was surprised to see how brutally serious the combat training for the soldiers were, and how they went out of their way to make some soldiers look like fools. I couldn't image being a soldier going through what Cook went through, dealing with all the stress, and on top of that embarrasment.
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- tunnel rats -- j. clarkson, Mon, June 08 2009, 2:26:15 (c-98-217-41-248.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/98.217.41.248)
as i read this i couldnt help to think that the tunnel rat would probaly be me in this kind of situation because of my size i would be a perfect canidit, the guys that went into these tunnels we brave.
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- king rat- bunker bonkers -- j. clarkson, Mon, June 08 2009, 2:02:32 (c-98-217-41-248.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/98.217.41.248)
I couldnt help to think if he migt of been losing well sitting in his bunker that night because i read war stories all the time and people start to see and do things to to keep time going and thats what seems to be going on here.
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- hand jive -- j clarkson, Mon, June 08 2009, 1:53:18 (c-98-217-41-248.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/98.217.41.248)
As i was reading this story i couldnt help to laught, it was interesting how the lieutenant colonel thought that cook would never go throught with acaully kicking him untill he finally did and sent the guy doen to the ground for good.
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- dad...i'll meet you at the wall -- Kyle Ham (sad), Sun, June 07 2009, 18:30:20 (c-24-62-243-224.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/24.62.243.224)
This guy was lucky to learn so much about his father. I like it that veterans consider themsleves brothers to those they served with whether they knew them or not.
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- Chu Lai 2nd surgical hospital -- Kyle Ham (War isnt fair), Sun, June 07 2009, 18:21:45 (c-24-62-243-224.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/24.62.243.224)
This guy got to witness two unfair personal deaths in war. It would be nice if a hospital would be a place to heal but instead it caused him more pain and anguish. I dont agree that the medic did not get his wish, he did die for a cause.
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- Purple heart -- Kyle Ham (interesting), Sun, June 07 2009, 18:13:32 (c-24-62-243-224.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/24.62.243.224)
It was kind of weird that the soldiers were more concerned about the cigarettes than this guys knee. I thought that he was brave to walk into the field while other people were firing at him. Its a good thing for him to wear a purple heart instead of his parents getting it.
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- Blown up -- Kyle Ham (Inspiring), Sun, June 07 2009, 18:04:34 (c-24-62-243-224.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/24.62.243.224)
This guy had a second chance at life handed to him by God himself. It would be nice to have that feeling that God exists no questions asked. This guy was really lucky and its nice to know that when death does happen its not a bad thing.
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- Da Nang AB Airmen's Club -- Lee Anderson "Andy", Sun, June 07 2009, 13:57:47 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Hi Don: I greatly enjoyed reading your story about the Enlisted Airmen's Club in DaNang [http://www.war-stories.com/dn-poss-airmans-club-fan-jbj-1965-1.asp]; I was the aviation storekeeper aboard the USS Princeton and handled all of the Marine Aircraft parts and some Air Force; (also supplied the fleet with sunglasses traded for Whiskey in DaNang ha ha).
Do you remember anyone like me at the club? I remember coming inside a place like you describe with the red lights and fans---I was a scared, 19 year-old in 1966 and vaguely remember watered down beer.
Thanks for the memory (in the words of Bob Hope,
Lee Anderson "Andy"
USS Princeton 1964-1966
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Replies:
- medic and nurse -- dan s (pain), Sun, June 07 2009, 9:54:10 (h69-21-83-36.chchnh.dsl.dynamic.tds.net/69.21.83.36)
I think some people only think that there are soldiers in war but there are other people to like doctors and nurse. In a way i dont think they get alot of credit just because there not running around the battle field shooting. I read an other article on a nures in the army her mane is Billie Thibodeau and she saw the same amount of actshion than anyone else. You can read her storie at www.thecamarilloacorn.com
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- the few -- dan s (smart), Sun, June 07 2009, 9:10:47 (h69-21-83-36.chchnh.dsl.dynamic.tds.net/69.21.83.36)
When i read this story the thing that went through my mind is how the military trys there people to do just what they did. I think when SSgt Jensen and A1c Al Handy fought off the attack they where doing what they where trained to do, the military trains you to fight with what you have.
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- Vietnam Casualty: Rose Request -- Candy Clemente, Sat, June 06 2009, 15:45:54 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
My name is Candy Clemente. Victor Manuel Yanez who was killed in Viet Nam on May 11, 1969 was my first kiss. We remained friends until the day he left for the war. I do have a photo of us before he left. I would like to add a Rose if possible.
Thank you.
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- My Enemy reply -- Cody Favata (sad), Tue, June 02 2009, 20:48:49 (c-24-60-51-163.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/24.60.51.163)
It's nice to hear the side of the story from someone other then an american for once. I mean i'm all for american history being an american but its nice to get a change. This story shocked me but made me sad. Twsits and other happenings. . . It was a very interesting read.
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- Red Cross Girls Reply -- Cody Favata (Laughing), Tue, June 02 2009, 20:43:48 (c-24-60-51-163.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/24.60.51.163)
its been 10 hours since i read this story and i'm still laughing. Its a great bit of comical humor to kind of slow down the pain and suffering. I do however feel very very bad for this man. IDK how much it hurt and i dont want to. i just want to laugh. I'm sorry. :[ haha
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- KABOOM reply -- Cody Favata (depressed), Tue, June 02 2009, 20:40:18 (c-24-60-51-163.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/24.60.51.163)
the last line is what really caught me. "Just when you think your safe your not." Plenty of ties have i been in that situation and it sucks. Catch 22 is what seems to be a major theme of my life. I'm sorry this happened. I'm so sick of war.
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- Thirteenth strike reply -- Cody Favata (sad), Tue, June 02 2009, 20:21:44 (c-24-60-51-163.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/24.60.51.163)
This story broke my heart because my father is a veteran of the Iraqi War and i would be devastated if he died and would be completely and utterly crestfallen if his body was never found. He had his own dangerous situations that i always worried about him on when he was on them.
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Angel on my shoulder reply -- Cody Favata (Thoughtful), Tue, June 02 2009, 20:20:11 (c-24-60-51-163.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/24.60.51.163)
I have also had dreams that came true that lead to both unexpected greatness and despair. This story connected with me in that way and i thought it to be a very good story.
I have been having dreams about tornados recently occuring over and over most likley meaning life destruction of some kind is about to occur. i keep wondering what it means.
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- War-Stories Memorial Wall-Native Americans -- Patricia Price, Sat, May 23 2009, 11:58:57 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Don:
Thank you for recognizing our Native Warriors. My cousin Jay Allen Muncey was a Western Shoshone, can you please add that to your list? Thank you.
Patricia Price
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- Jean Baptiste Incashola: Army -- Francine Domonique, Sat, May 23 2009, 11:57:11 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Dear Webmaster:
I am writing to let you know the tribe of my uncle Jean Baptiste Incashola so it can be added on your page. He was a member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of Montana.
May The Creator Watch Over You Today And Always,
Francine Domonique
E-mail message checked by Spyware Doctor (6.0.1.441)
Database version: 6.12450
http://www.pctools...com/spyware-doctor-antivirus/
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- The Wall -- Elayne Mackey, Pres. Associates of Vietnam Veterans America, Wed, May 20 2009, 19:01:29 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Hi Don
Thank you for your service & Welcome Home.
I am in the process of getting some material together for a Wall presentation we are having here in CA.
I always print out the From the Other Side [http://www.war-stories.com/from-the-other-side-camunes-1967-1.asp], which people love and always want copies. I notice on your War Stories web site, permission is needed for reprint of your writing about The Wall.
Also, I have visited your Autumn's Wall [http://www.war-stories.com/aspprotect/dn-poss-wall-autumn-1998-2.asp] many times and it is peaceful and beautiful and I like your humor that you put in ...in places.
I especially like your description and your offer of assistance on your War Stories site.
May I have your permission to use this in my materials? You know...that we never know who we will meet at a Wall and what requests they may have. Being able to offer some type of help is so appreciated by those visiting.
Thank you so much,
Elayne Mackey, President CA. Associates
Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc (AVVA) CA. State Council & proud wife of a Vietnam Veteran 70/71 71st AHC Chu Lai Americal Division
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- Help for a disabled Vietnam Veteran -- Mary Flandez, Social Worker, Tue, May 12 2009, 14:20:06 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
I am Mary Flandez social worker for James .We are hoping that someone can help with this situation. My client James Louis Raphael Simi Valley California now has Agent Orange. His symptoms are Diabetes, amputation and on Dialysis Etc The VA can not find any history of James serving in Vietnam. The VA will not assist with the Agent Orange due to this fact. Please Is there anyone that can assist us with this matter? Is there anyway we can find out who has served with him?
Army Info; Pvt. James Louis Raphael
Started to service in the Army October 3, 1966 Fort Polk Louisiana. Training was at Fort Ord. California March 3, 1967 After training he then was flown out to Vietnam
he served from 1967 to 1968. James is now in a Conversant Hospital.
His wife’s e mail is jraphael3@roadrunner.com her name is Albertha.
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- Ginny Kirsch's murder -- Marj Dutilly, Sun, May 10 2009, 18:42:05 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Hey, Don Poss- Just read the war story about Ginny Kirsch's murder and, as a Donut Dollie assigned to Nam the year AFTER Ginny, I thank you for those comments...how could the Red Cross have sent us there knowing they wouldnt/couldn't assure our safety, although they insisted they could! (I had assumed for years that they did everything humanly possible to find Ginny's killer...I guess not!)
Marj Dutilly
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- Story: Heavy Heart -- Rebecca Garrett, Tue, April 28 2009, 21:58:21 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Dear Larry,
i read "Heavy Heart" [http://www.war-stories.com/aspprotect/dog-tags-poss-larry-1997-2.asp] for an assignment at school and it touched my heart so much. it was like i was there getting out of the car, seeing my reflection behind the returned soldier who was mourning the death of someone close to him. i was close to tears myself. some people just don't get how serious and life altering these kind of things are.
you'll be in my memories and i hope you live the rest of your life to the fullest,
Becca
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- Re: Looking for Vietnam veterans -- Robert Rempel, Mon, April 27 2009, 17:06:18 (h191.1.91.75.dynamic.ip.windstream.net/75.91.1.191)
Was at Lane AH from 1967 and 1968, 19 months total. Was assigned to 394th trans. det. for the 129th AHC. Have lots of memories from then.
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- Memorial Day Story - Catch The Wind.... -- Don Poss, Sun, April 19 2009, 12:02:30 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Gents & Ladies:
Memorial Day is upon us once again. I've thought about the future Last Vietnam War Veteran, and his last day, and wrote a story about what he might feel. I invite you to take a minute and read, Catch The Wind, The Last Vietnam War Veteran, Memorial Day, 2062, at
http://www.vspa.com/aspprotect/catch-the-wind-don-poss-2009.asp
Don Poss,
War-Stories Webmaster
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Replies:
- Re: Memorial Day Story - Catch The Wind.... -- Frank Evans, Wed, April 15 2009, 22:33:21 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
- Re: Memorial Day Story - Catch The Wind.... -- Gary Knutson, Wed, April 15 2009, 23:32:36 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
- Re: Memorial Day Story - Catch The Wind.... -- Jay Gearhart, Thu, April 16 2009, 10:37:29 (68-188-157-114.dhcp.trcy.mi.charter.com/68.188.157.114)
- Re: Memorial Day Story - Catch The Wind.... -- Harry Larsen, Thu, April 16 2009, 12:31:42 (75-172-74-8.tukw.qwest.net/75.172.74.8)
- Re: Memorial Day Story - Catch The Wind.... -- Jay Gearhart, Sun, April 19 2009, 5:57:34 (68-188-157-114.dhcp.trcy.mi.charter.com/68.188.157.114)
- Print Requests: Memorial Day Story - Catch The Wind.... -- Don Poss, Sun, April 19 2009, 12:02:30 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
- cbs documentary-1967 -- William Paulsen, Tue, April 14 2009, 19:27:55 (cpe-70-95-118-30.hawaii.res.rr.com/70.95.118.30)
I am looking for a documentary produced in 1966 and aired on ABC in l967. It was narrated by Jimmy Stewart. The subject was the 31st TAC fighter wing at Homestead AFB, Fl. Col.James Jaberra was the commander before he was killed in a car accident. Col. Lewis took command before deploying for Tuy Hoa, Vietnam in Dec. 1966. Filming began before leaving Fla. and contiued with alert tents, R&R etc in Vietnam. Our family saw it in spring of 1967 and we would very much like to find a copy. If you have information where I might look please call me at 808-322-3723 or E-mail wpaulsen@hawaii.rr.com. Thank you so much. William Paulsen Ret.Maj.AF
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- RE: War-Stories: Body Count, 1965 -- Tobby Baca, Tue, April 14 2009, 19:07:59 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
tobbyb [mailto:tobbyb@aol.com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 14, 2009 5:58 PM
To: dlp@war-stories.com; larry@larryposs.com
Subject: War-Stories: Body Count, 1965
HI Don,
I read with much interest your facts about the Viet Nam war. I have one question. You state that there was 304,000 WIA. I have four Purple Hearts and know many others that have two or more. My question is 304,000 the number of wounded or the number of Purple Hearts given out?
Thank you for your help in this matter.
Tobby Baca
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- Mekong Delta area H-Battery 29th (SLT) -- G. Delaney, Mon, April 13 2009, 21:27:01 (99-3-104-238.lightspeed.frsnca.sbcglobal.net/99.3.104.238)
Looking for any one who was with H-Battery 29th (SLT) out of Can Tho. I was with the 1st Platoon. Looking for a couple of guys who were there.
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- Free computer updates -- Don Poss, Sat, April 04 2009, 21:09:34 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Gents & Ladies:
Once more it is time to update your Free Adobe Java, Flash, Shock, and Media players. Go to War-Stories' Troubleshooting page at http://www.war-stories.com/ws-troubleshooting-1.asp and click on the icons. Once an update begins, do not stop it.
Don Poss,
Webmaster, War-Stories.com
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- Computer Tip -- Don Poss, Tue, March 31 2009, 21:37:36 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Gents:
For those of you who have real computers (Windows), here's a tip you might find useful:
Ever wonder what that funny Print Screen/SysRq button is for? Use to be you could click that key and it would Print Out whatever is on your screen. For your info -- it still does...sort of. Have you ever been surfing the web and wanted to capture a photo on some site that blocks downloading photos (like some War-Stories.com photos)? Well here's how to do that:
WINDOWS USERS:
1. Scroll to where ever the photo or text you want a copy of is located.
2. Click your keyboard's "Print Screen/SysRq" key. That loads the page into your temporary copy area as an image.
3. Open your Word Document and place your cursor on the blank page (or it can be anywhere on the page).
4. Finally, press "Ctrl" and "v" keys, and that will paste the "image" of the screen you want in to the word document.
MAC USERS:
1. Go to the garage.
2. Find the duct tape.
3. Cover your computer screen completely with duct tape.
4. Now here's the tricky part: you must rip off all the duct tape in one powerful RIP (just like when you do the hair off your back).
5. Hold the duct tape up against a mirror to see the reverse perfect image of what an idiot looks like. (just kidding...well, almost)
6. Sorry'bout that.
Don Poss,
War-Stories.com Webmaster
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- DaNang on July 15, 1967 -- William B Leppert, Thu, March 26 2009, 11:07:24 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Don, I was at DaNang on July 15, 1967 as a member of the USN assigned to fly missions with VQ-1 on the EC-121Ms. Our barracks were destroyed that night when an ammo dump next to us ignited. Forty four guys in my unit were injured.
I would appreciate it if I could review the photos that you have. They are for my personal interest only and I have no intention of marketing or distributing them.
Thanks,
William B Leppert
St Joseph, MO
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Replies:
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Whers EVERYONE at??? -- Jay Gearhart, Wed, March 25 2009, 10:43:36 (68-188-157-114.dhcp.trcy.mi.charter.com/68.188.157.114)
Whats going on. There hasn't been a new post on this bulletin board in a month?? Come on you guys , I like reading the posts, so lets go. Jay
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- US Sergeant give a motivational speech to "Lazy Iraqi Police" -- Don Poss, Sun, February 22 2009, 11:33:12 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Gents & Ladies:
I don't know if anyone has seen this US Sergeant give a motivational speech to "Lazy Iraqi Police" at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1GrdTakvl8
but it is well worth checking out on UTube. No holds barred and tells it like it Should Be!
Don Poss
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- WWII Propaganda Posters -- Don Poss, Thu, February 12 2009, 22:43:05 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Gents & Ladies:
Sometime ago I posted Communist Propaganda Posters of the Vietnam War at http://www.vspa.com/vspa-communist-vn-war-posters-p1.htm
That project was the first of doing posters for all U.S. wars. If you are inclined to check out such things you might enjoy 91 of the best World War II Propaganda Posters at http://www.war-stories.com/wwII-posters-1.asp
The times in America were much different back then, for good and bad, and the posters do reflect the desperate times of those war years.
WWI and the Civil War will probably post next week sometime.
Don Poss
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- Need Agent Orange advice -- George de Randich, Thu, February 12 2009, 6:13:01 (cpe-75-82-145-99.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.145.99)
Need a little bit of advice. Recently, I found a friend of mine; whom received many Medals for bravery in Viet-Nam, I have been advised that possibly the Department of the Army, The Department of Defense & the Department of Veterans Affairs have been less than helpful in assisting; my schoolmate in collecting what compensation he is due from exposure to Herbicides in Viet-Nam. I do not have the full story as of yet on my friend!
I intend on digging quite a bit. But if anyone has some ideas please speak up!
Respectfully yours,
George Y. de Randich
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- My brother Ron Moses a Kiowa -- Neil Kessler, Mon, February 09 2009, 15:34:56 (pool-71-101-165-62.tampfl.dsl-w.verizon.net/71.101.165.62)
I wanted to give some credit to a American Indian brother of mine by the name of Ron Moses aka "Sasquatch". Ron was Army special forces in Nam 68-69-70. He did some unexplainable stuff from what I gather with his squad. Sorta a recon-do some dirty things to the enemy behind their lines group I guess. Captured once for about a week, and escaped from the NVA. Ron is a Kiowa warrior from Oklahoma, haven't seen him for awhile now, but have talked to him, and know his heart still runs true and he 100% for all his warrior brothers. Aho
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- China Beach... -- Don Poss, Thu, February 05 2009, 19:02:28 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Gents:
My niece, Lori, was an Army medic several years ago. She is now a civilian nurse. Lori and her husband just got back from a tour in Vietnam. Neither were old enough to have served their, but just wanted to go.
I just received a package in the mail from Lori. Inside was a small plastic container with a note. Lori said she knew I served at Da Nang, and while there on 1-23-2009, she scooped up a tube of China Beach sand along the Da Nang beach. Ironically...42 years to the day that my tentmate, J.B. Jones, was kia at Da Nang.
I will never return to Da Nang ... but I will keep this small token safe with my memories.
Don Poss
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- War-Stories' Grand Opening Military Store! -- Don Poss, Thu, February 05 2009, 15:59:21 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Since starting War-Stories.com in 1995, I have often been asked when "the store" would be opened. Now it is!
War-Stories.com is Pleased to Announce the GRAND OPENING of The Military Corner Store at (link also on the homepage):
http://www.war-stories.com/aspprotect/shop/default.asp
TheMilitaryCorner.com is a 24/7 military store honoring all veterans, active duty military, retirees, family, friends, and first-responders. Featuring Thousands of quality military collectibles for U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard, highlighting all US wars--at incredible low prices! Discover rare unit pins from WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, Afghanistan, Gulf, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Terrorist War! Find that special gift or memory and display your pride.
Don Poss,
War-Stories Webmaster
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- Interview for my Project -- Anthony (curious), Thu, February 05 2009, 7:51:32 (24-240-17-206.dhcp.gwnt.ga.charter.com/24.240.17.206)
I have been working on a vietnam project for school. Part of my project requires me to interview a vietnam veteran. If you would like to email me information and help out please respond. I really would like to hear about someone who was a dog handler or sniper.
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Replies:
- SFC Cecil A Meares -- Dorothy Phillips (sad), Sat, January 31 2009, 18:45:15 (nc-76-3-124-165.dhcp.embarqhsd.net/76.3.124.165)
My Dad was taken from me September 23,1967.He was murdered In Nha Trang vietnam.There are so many things that I want to know about my dad. He was in the Army and was with th 5th group. Please help me. I have never been able to get answers and evey child needs to know about there Dad even though we are grown now
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- Film Review: Taken/2009 -- Don Poss, Sat, January 31 2009, 18:27:39 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Film Review: Taken/2009
Starring: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen
Liam Neeson plays a retired spy whose job was to keep “bad things from happening.” He was very good at his job and no doubt was also Jack Bower’s (24) mentor in interview techniques. When Liam's daughter is kidnapped he considers that a “bad thing” and goes to Europe to rescue her. Liam is careful to assure only those mostly deserving-to-die do so with style and taste (not counting the guy electro-fried, the sudden bus hitchhiker, and maybe the fork-lift thing). Those not-deserving were only hospitalized or flesh-wounded. Within a very brief time there is a trail of tastefully-dead bodies rivaling a centipede’s foot prints.
Short version: On an action-packed four-star rating, Taken gets five stars! You won’t want to miss anything, so skip the theatre’s soda. Take mama with you—tell her it’s a chick-flick.
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- Three Days of Hell -- Peter Hutchins (Im proud to read these stories), Wed, January 21 2009, 19:25:38 (c-75-67-50-123.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/75.67.50.123)
I am a student and I was given an assignment to read stories from Vietnam veterans. I am glad my teacher gave me this assignment because Ive learned so much. These men risked it all fighting for freedom. I read the story Three Days of hell and it really touched me. The story of this one guy named Al Handy. I wish I could think and react fast enough to save the lives of my fellow men. Your story is so moving it just blew my mind away. I don't know how those people could have accused you while you where trying to protect these people. You took The little ammunition you had and fought off the opposing forces, like they were nothing. Your a true hero, and its sad how few of people will know your great story. I couldn't imagine how horrible it would be to see a fellow comrade go down and from the bottom of my heart I just want you and all the other great hero's of our fine country that don't get any of the recognition that they should.
Sincerely a true fan Peter Hutchins.
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- Vietnam Brotherhood Delta Co: From the other side poem -- Ray Leclair, Wed, January 21 2009, 2:08:20 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Hi. The Vietnam Brotherhood Delta Co. Port Charlotte Florida have the honor of presenting the Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall on Veterans Day 2009 at the new spring training home of thr Florida Rays pro baseball team in Port Charlotte Florida, Pat (Bernie) Camune's piece "from the Other side " is being considered to be read at either the Opening cerimony or the closing cerimony.How do we go about getting permission to do so if we indeed choose this fantastic piece?
Ray Leclair
Nam Vet--67-68 USMC
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Replies:
- Response to Confessions Of A CH-54 Pilot -- Ryan, Tue, January 20 2009, 18:56:58 (c-24-62-157-55.hsd1.nh.comcast.net/24.62.157.55)
The story is very interesting. I don't know a lot about the Vietnam War but what I do know from school and movies doesn't really say much about pilots. It's nice to see these stories and hear what happened. Thank you Robert Archer for serving as a pilot and for posting your story.
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- About Slow Boat to Vietnam -- Silvia, Tue, January 20 2009, 16:13:33 (d-65-175-148-235.cpe.metrocast.net/65.175.148.235)
Hi, I'm Silvia, I'm an exchange student from Italy in New Hampshire. Our American Studies teacher gave us this assignent: to find 5 Vietnam Veterans' stories and comment them. At first I was scared, I was worried about not succeeding in this assignment, because to be honest...I don't know anything about Vietnam. It wasn't my country's war, it's true, but I still wish someone told me what happened, the protests, the blaming...But then, reading several stories, I noticed that every single one of them was written for a purpose:let people know the truth...people like me, the new generations, to let us grow up a little bit while reading. Thank you
Silvia
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Replies:
- Poem: Forget Me Not -- Tyler A., Tue, January 20 2009, 16:07:51 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Thank you for posting "Forget Me Not (http://www.war-stories.com/poem-poss-forget-me-not-1965-1.asp)" ... such a great poem. It really touches the heart when you say that you were there with the men on the Wall and that you are still with them now. My favorite part is when you say that you are there with them now, no matter how far the distance. It shows that you really care about them and that you can never forget them and what they did.
Thanks for serving. Tyler A.
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Replies:
- MY EXPERIENCE, REGRETS -- ROBERT J. ARCHER (I NEED YOUR HELP), Mon, January 12 2009, 12:22:36 (c-24-23-234-140.hsd1.ca.comcast.net/24.23.234.140)
SUBJECT: Suffering from PTSD and need letters vouching for my service as a Lancer who served in combat
Dear Fellow Lancer,
This is Bob Archer (formerly Lt. Robert Archer, Lancer 24) . I NEED YOUR HELP.
Unless I can find one or more of my fellow combat veteran Lancers to vouch for my service with the Lancers in one or more combat assaults, I have very little chance of receiving any monetary aid for PTSD. I am sure that many of you have experienced the same thing.
I also have reoccurring skin cancer, but because it is not multiple myeloma, they do not recognize it as associated with the fact Camp Evans and Quang Tri were cleared by heavy spraying with Agent Orange which contained Dioxin, a cancer agent. I did not know that until 2008. Originally, the areas that we occupied were heavily forested. The military cleared that whole area by heavy spraying with Agent Orange (2,4,5-T). Agent Orange has a long residual life (half life). So the soil in the areas we occupied were heavily contaminated with Agent Orange for years. That is why it was such a great defoliant.
I have been disabled since 2006, and trying to prove to the VA that I served with the Lancers from Jan through most of May, 1970, and, most importantly served in combat. They rejected my appeal for monetary assistance because I could not prove to them that I was in combat.
Since I do not have any medals of Valor nor Purple Heart, I am having trouble proving that I was in combat. I suffered brain damage during “routine” brain surgery several years ago, and my memory was affected. I can no longer work nor support my family. I have gotten some help from the City to fix my leaking roof, but that does not pay the bills. All my Social Security goes to the mortgage and property taxes. We have taken on one renter to help pay for the food; but it is not enough.
I have the Lancer blue year book. Unfortunately, many names were left out; with the first or last name or both often missing. I still have the memorial pamphlets from James Burton (Twiggy), Bob Kirk, Bill Weisse (spl) and several other Lancers that were killed during one of our Bn combat assaults. I remember that the Cobras were firing so close that some of the tree limbs almost struck my helicopter and others. I remember one of the pilots shouting to the gunships to back off a little bit lest they bring one of our choppers down with flying trees limbs!
I remember one of the Warrant Officers taped a combat assault. I am not sure if it was this one or not. I remember listening to it. It would probably be one of the best documentations of what was going on (at least for him) during one of those assaults. At the time, we listened to the tape and just laughed it off.
I remember we sometimes referred to pilots and crew killed in a burning aircraft irreverently as “crispy critters”. I think we did this to get on with our lives. Even though is seems so irreverent today. We did not have time to brood over the dead. We had to get on with our lives. Taken out of context, that could sound calloused to an outsider.
My description of my combat experiences were not enough because I could not remember the name of the mission nor the month that it occurred. All I could tell them is that it all occurred between Jan 3 and late May of 1970. That was not enough to prove that I was in combat. I remember my crew chief and flight engineer having to beat off excess ARVN’s on one mission where there were fleeing the NVA. I could not get off the ground with so many ARVN’s handing on to the skids and trying to get into the chopper even though we could not get off the ground with so many ARVNs hanging on. Then we had to go back (I’m not sure if it was the same mission, and pick up a bunch of dead ARVNs. They were still dripping blood. One of them was lying over a log and had rhigormortis. So we could not get him in the chopper easily. We had to put him in last. We flew back maybe once or twice to pick up bodies. Then the Crew Chief had to wash out the helicopter because the deck was covered with blood. I remember the blood (lots of it) running out the doors.
I had a great deal of respect for all the Crew Chiefs and Door Gunners who worked long hours just to make sure that the aircraft was safe to fly the next day. They worked long hours. And were all good men. We did not have a big problem with drugs. I only had one “temporary reassigned crew member” who I know used drugs. He was not even supposed to be in our unit. He did not show up for a flight. So the Crew Chief and I went to get him. That was my first look at how destructive drugs could be. He as lying dead in his bunk from an overdose. It was awful. He had pissed his pants and snot was coming out of his nose. I will never forget that.
I AM LOOKING FOR SOME “LANCER COMRADES” TO VOUCH FOR ME. WHO THINK THAT I AM WORTH THE EFFORT.
I feel very guilty even asking for this request because I did not do anything to help support or communicate with Lancers very much over the years. I would get too depressed. I quit communicating onsite to put it out of my mind. So many people were still talking about the difficult time they had adjusting to back home.
My job kept my mind off the subject for years. But now that I am stuck at home every day except when I go to the VA for medical care, I have felt very guilty for not doing anything to help any of my fellow aviation crew members or pilots. It was thoughtless and selfish.
I had made a promise to myself that I was going to call Gene Miller’s parents when I got home to tell them that he was a swell guy, a brave soldier and leader and a good friend. I NEVER DID THAT. I finally did take a trip to the WALL in DC. I walked up to the wall and touch each name of the fallen Lancers who I knew. I cried without shame.
My son is a combat medic in Mosul on his second tour. He goes out with the infantry motor platoon on patrol several times a week. He does not have to do this because in his the medic in charge since his boss and good friend was badly wounded when his MRAP was struck by two Russian RPG’s two months ago. He is coming home sometime in February after 15 months on his second tour. But he is already having some problems. When he can get to a public phone, he calls me. Losing his best friend (who is at Walter Reed recovering) has affected him more than the loss of any other medic. He is a brave soldier. He does not have to go on patrol; but if he does not take a turn, he feels is puts too much pressure on his fellow medics. There are only four or five medics supporting his company. And there are one or more patrols going out on a daily basis. He is assigned to the 101st Airborne Division even though his Division is the 4th Infantry.
SGT Gregory Archer, my son in Mosul, has promised me that the first thing he is going to do when he gets home is go visit THE WALL in Washington D.C. and pay for me to go with him. I have written letters to all those guys who died when I was a Lancer. I am going to place each letter in plastic, and leave the letter and flowers to thank them for giving their lives at such a young age. Most of them were in their early twenties. They had their whole life ahead of them. And I am filled with guilt for doing nothing to honor them or contact any of their friends at home and tell them that they were great and brave soldiers who I highly respected. It took me years to realize that I loved all you guys. I was 25 when we were at Camp Evans and Quang Tri. I remember flying Rangers into North Vietnam at tree top level. Those guys had balls. I looked up Bruce Haskell this year. I did not realize that he had died at the early age of 39! Bruce gave me my orientation flight. It was not a very long orientation because Bruce responded to a LOH pilot calling for help. His Crew Chief has been shot while they were hovering around a tree line (scouting). He had fallen out of the LOH, so the pilot needed help retrieving him. We got three within five minutes. The Crew Chief jumped out and drug the wounded guy to our chopper and we did our first medivac. Bruce was “short”, but he did not hesitate to respond to the cry for help from that LOH pilot. I was too new to be afraid or even think about how many more enemy might be in that tree line. Fortunately, with the door gunner and LOH pilot firing into the tree line, we took no fire. That took balls. Bruce got nothing for it. But that was typical as you would know. It was expected.
I remember hearing from one of my friends that Dan Lanier had rescued a Navy pilot in the Ashau Valley (right after I left in late May 1970). Dan was an excellent pilot. I heard that he received the Silver Star from the Navy pilot’s based on the Navy Pilot’s write up. That pilot figured he was a goner. There were NVA everywhere. I had just been reassigned to the 478th Heavy Lift Company in Red Beach, DaNang. CPT Gene Miller, our XO, was suppose to stop by and see me on his way out on R&R. He was killed right before he was scheduled to go on R&R.
For some reason the VA is telling me that I did not participate in combat! I was a 1st Lt and Major Grant S. Green was the Company Commander. I can't remember the names of any of the combat assault operations and apparently, the VA review group won't or can't look them up. I was a Lancer from Jan 3rd to mid to late May before I was transferred to the 478th in Red Beach.
I remember one LZ where we landed in a very large crater with the woods in front of us. The cobras were firing their rockets so close that some pilot complained of tree branches nearly hitting their choppers. Another combat assault, one of the Warrant Officers taped the radio conversations. Can you help me out. Even if all you remember is that I was there and worthy of your vouching for me.
Warm Regards and Happy New Year.
Bob Archer (1st Lt Robert J. Archer, Lancer 24 and Lancer 11)
Home Phone: 925-855-0885
Cell Phone: none
P.S. Thank You for Your Service. Please feel free to pass on this letter to anyone who might remember me. My memory is not good anymore. VA has taken me into their medical program. I did not have any money to keep up my wife of 38 years insurance and my medical insurance and pay all the deductibles and prescriptions. I contracted spinal meningitis in 2006 during brain surgery which did a lot of damage to my sleep ability and memory.
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- Regarding War-Stories Memorial Wall-Native Americans pages -- SREGON, Sun, December 28 2008, 11:51:39 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Harold Bradley Muller who died in Vietnam is a Yurok Indian. [This was a request to add the KIA's tribal information to the Native American memorial pages. Don Poss]
SRegon
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- Christmas Giving -- Don Poss, Sat, December 20 2008, 21:51:45 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Christmas Joy: I am so proud of my wife, Kathy. Every year she organizes and collects money and toys for needy children and distributes them through her work at Loma Lynda Medical Center from family-names provided by the local Salvation Army. Loma Lynda Medical Center employees have big hearts and come through for the families year after year. Kathy always calls me afterward and tells me about the excitement of delivering the presents, all of which are hand-picked for the kids and parents. This year they selected two families: a single mom with three kids, and a single grand-father with two grand-children he is raising.
Kathy just called, a little happy-weepy as usual, and said they finished playing Santa and taking the presents around. They phoned the old veteran grandpa and told him they were just around the corner, and he excitedly said he would be standing on the curb in front of his single-wide motor home waving. When they drove around the corner he spotted them and was waving his arms—more like doing jumping-jacks--at them! He thought they would give the kids one or two presents, but when they kept unloading presents he asked if they were sure all those were for his grand-kids. When they said, yes, and that there were still more, and these are for you, he then broke down and started crying. And that my friends, brings tears to my old eyes, joy to my heart, and understanding of what Christmas giving is all about.
I just wanted to share this with you.
A Merrier Christmas to all...
Don Poss
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- Capt Charles V. Donohoe -- Dennis J. Manning (Homicide Research), Tue, December 16 2008, 15:06:10 (pool-71-171-118-140.clppva.fios.verizon.net/71.171.118.140)
I am the first cousin of Captain Charles (Charlie) V. Donohoe, killed in Vietnam on 7 Nov 1970. He was not killed by the enemy but at the hands of another american soldier. Is there anyone out there that knows what really went down? I want to know as I have waited so many year wondering and I want it in the family history so that everyone who sees it will know what he sacrificed and how his death came about. Thanks.
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- First Contact... -- Marilyn K. Lynch, Sat, December 13 2008, 11:48:35 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Dear Mr. Poss,
I am writing to you to make sure that this site is the right format for your venue. I will gladly donate money to your cause after I hear from you. I am a high school teacher at West Haven High School, West Haven, CT go to: http://www.hmm-364.org/mannion-d.html
Today, Cpl. Dennis Mannion, a Vietnam Veteran Marine, came and spoke to our classes. I have never seen the students so moved and absorbed with a presentation. Life changing experience for these kids!
Dennis created a slide show and his presentation is phenomenal. It really educated the students about this war and the truth about what it is like to be a veteran of a war. He is a retired English teacher and his presentation certainly showed how talented he is at presenting and educating students to the reality of Viet Nam.
I showed Mr. Mannion a picture of a German Shepard we had (the family dog, Ringo). Ringo was a brillient, beautiful dog but was too protective of the family and bit neighbors. He was so intelligent and wonderful. My dad decided to send him to the Navy (he was a WW II Navy Vet) Apparently he went to Lackland.
I also have a letter SN Stephen D. Thompson sent my dad from Nam. It is a wonderful thing that I will always cherish. I did ask Mr. Mannion if I should correspond (after all these years) with SN Stephen D. Thompson. I did some research and I believe SN Thomspon is 61 years old and lives in Augusta, Georgia. I called the number associated with his name, address. The person that picked up the phone was I believe his wife. She said he spent 9 months in the hospital because his truck was blown up. He now drives trucks and golf carts. I mentioned sending a letter and she was quite abrupt when I mentioned that. I have pictures of Ringo with my sisters and I that are so precious, when Ringo was a pup.
Dennis Mannion encouraged me to forward a letter. You have so much experience. In fact, I have gotten letters from former Nam K-9 handlers that state that "Mr. Thompson is so lucky to have touched base with the roots of his brother", meaning the K-9.
You have so much experience. What do you think? I have some beautiful pictures of Ringo that I would like to send him to and a copy of the letter he sent to my dad.
Thanks for your time. God bless,
Marilyn K. Lynch
Guilford, Connecticut
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- Free updates: Java, Flash, Shock, Adobe Reader -- Don Poss, Thu, December 11 2008, 12:08:27 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Gents & Ladies:
It's time once more to go to War-Stories's Troubleshooting page <http://www.war-stories.com/ws-troubleshooting-1.asp> and click on the links to download and install the latest versions of your FREE JAVA, FLASH PLAYER, SHOCK PLAYER, and ADOBE ACROBAT READER.
These Free download programs are essential to viewing War-Stories.com. They are self-installing, but may take a few minutes due to the size, so be patient.
PS: War-Stories.com's new Military Store will open shortly!
Season's Greeting to All,
Don Poss,
War-Stories.com Webmaster
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- Memorial Rose request -- Bob Davis, Wed, December 10 2008, 12:29:29 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
My name is Bob Davis I am the son of Douglas O. Davis I would like to request a rose placed beside my fathers name,from my sister Linda and I.
Bob Davis
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- A chance to say goodbye... -- Jerry Poss, Mon, December 08 2008, 11:25:19 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Don & Larry
Last October, when I was back in Norfolk visiting Josh [USN on his way to Iraq], we took a side trip to Rocky Mount North Carolina. That is where Rick, my best friend from the war, lived. We were both 23 years old, divorced and he had a son and me a daughter. When I came home I tried to contact Rick Rogers based on what information I had. I did find his parents phone number and phoned them. After explaining who I was and that I wanted to see Rick. His father told me Rick had died in a car crash while he was under the influence of who knows what. His father told me that he did not want anything to do with the war and that he blamed the war on his son not being able to adjust when he came home. Rick got involved in drugs and alcohol and never got over the horrors of War and the things he did at a young age. I did not pursue the matter and hung up.
While in Rocky Mount North Carolina I looked up his father’s telephone and called again. I told Mr. Rogers I would like to stop by if it was ok and share memories of his son, my best friend. He said, "I thought I made my self clear that we want nothing to do with any part of the war” --and it would not be a good time for me to come over now or at any later date.
I guess I needed the visit more that his parents. Maybe I needed to just say goodbye to a dear friend and brother for one last time. I did not get that opportunity to ease my own pain and guilt. My memories of Rick are vivid in my mind, only I am now 62 and he is still 23. The bond Rick and I shared was very strong and we helped each other get through our 365 tour. Every night we would say goodnight to each other, no matter if we were in our tent at base camp or sleeping on the red latte rite mud.
I told Rick’s father that I would like for Rick’s son to contact me if he would like to know what his Dad did in the War. Rick’s father said he would think it over to decide to tell him, or not. As I was leaving Rock Mount North Carolina with my own son, Josh, I felt I was close -- but it does not appear I will break through the bitterness of the loss of a son to a War that was only supported by the young men and women who then served an ungrateful nation. With my son Josh serving in the United State Navy, USS Theodore Roosevelt, I pray and ask God that no soldier will ever come home without a grateful nation saying, Welcome Home and Thank You.
[Don Poss' brother]
Jerry Poss,
USArmy, 18th Engineer Brigade
84th Engineer Battalion
Bong Son Valley
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- Re: 821st combat security police squadron -- joseph cusimano jr (post tramatic--medic phan rang 68), Sat, November 29 2008, 12:22:40 (c75-111-44-121.unknwn.ab.dh.suddenlink.net/75.111.44.121)
need help in info on vietnam,advanced party first to be sent to nam. filing disability hard to remember all that went down ,deployed troughout country,any info will help. sgt. joe cusimano jr. medic -821st csps.
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- Use of copyrighted posters from Vietnam era -- Matthias Voller, Sat, November 29 2008, 12:13:56 (cpe-75-82-158-38.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.158.38)
Dear Sir,
I am currently teaching a course on "America's Vietnam Experience" to German High School students at the Waldorf School in Wolfsburg, Germany. While carrying out research on the internet, I happened to come across a variety of very interesting propaganda posters from the Vietnam era. Naturally, the original posters would be very hard to come by, but I would be absolutely grateful if I could copy them from your website and file them so I can make a handout for the students. Asking your permission to use the posters I remain
yours faithfully,
Matthias Voller
Freie Waldorfschule Wolfsburg
mvoller_68@hotmail.com
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- Veterans Day at The Wall -- Jay Gearhart (Love those Nurses), Thu, November 27 2008, 7:27:46 (66-227-188-227.dhcp.trcy.mi.charter.com/66.227.188.227)
Returned from my trip to DC & the Vietnam Veterans Memorial last week. Veterans Day was the 15th anniversary of the Women's Memorial. What a great crowd, & the program was outstanding. We laid our Wreath at Panel 23/24 West.As it always is for me ,the experience was heart wrenching. For all of the nurses who attended ,& for all of us, who at one time or another during the war required there services, I sincerely thank you. Your service to all of us old Nam Vets in that God awful place will always be remembered.
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- to the non combat vietvets -- Terry Godwin SP4 Army 68-70 (appreciative), Tue, November 25 2008, 1:13:43 (pool-71-102-74-50.plspca.dsl-w.verizon.net/71.102.74.50)
I don't care where you were during the war. If you were supporting us in any way, and there were many ways to do this, you deserve recognition. Even if you were bringing us toilet paper, hell we sure needed it! Without support we would have been worse off then we already were. So don't let anyone minimize the importance of what you did for the combat soldier. Every small job was bigger than you may realize. And sometimes a big job was smaller than realized. It was all crazy. Insane. And everyone was important, big, small, all significant to us. YOU were much appreciated, even miles away! Hell, someone had to be there, we couldn't all be combat! Thanks for your support!
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- Permission to print THUMPERMAN in newsletter -- Gary Cooper (publish monthly newsletter for combat veterans), Sun, November 23 2008, 0:57:38 (75-175-38-9.ptld.qwest.net/75.175.38.9)
Hi Dip?
My name is Gary Cooper. I was with the 12th Marines in I Corps 1965-1966. I am now one old fart!!
I print a monthly newsletter called WALKING WOUNDED for combat veteran's suffering from PTSD and TBI. I live in Portland, Oregon and crank the old rag out from my home. Needless to say, distribution is limited.
I have been doing it for a few months now. I am doing a special Christmas Issue and have been researching Nam Christmas stories. I think the guys would really like Mr. Worthington's story.
Is there some way I could get reproduction permission on other articles (assuming I get permission on this one!) from your site without a written request for each one? I'm a one man operation and just researching, layout, printing, and distribution keeps me humping.
I am 71 years old. Enough said!
My format in a "default" issue is:
Total pages: 8
Page 1 & 2 Lead story relevant to Mental Health issues for Combat Vets
Page 3 & 4 Local VA stories, general militayr news.
page 5 & 6 Military Jokes & Humor
page 7 Column by me called RECOOPERATING, just human interest stuff
page 8 Graphics and copy pertaining to Holidays, Upcoming events etc.
The guys and gals love it as I don't hammer boring technical balderdash at them but stuff they like to know, the humor is really enjoyed and the personal growth stuff is not only tolerable, but sometime even palatable!.
I do all my graphics in color. More expensive, but it gets their attention and holds it; also they realize you didn't take the cheap way out, it helps them understand that we care about them, not just cost.
There are over a quarter million web sites on PTSD and TBI. I don't know many veteran's with their brain housing group messed up that are willing or that matter able to negotiate this labyrinth. A "Reader's Digest" format works best.
Our goal is to help our brothers fight the demons, the survivior guilt, their sense of being "damaged goods", and to give them a good belly laugh, a slap on the ass and the belief that tomorrow can be better than today.
Hope you read this, as a typist I am definitely a 2 finger, head down, back spacing, mumbling mess, and I'd hate to lose all the frustration for a deleted email.
If you have any suggestions (ones you could tell your mother), about my newsletter, please pass them along. If you'd like a hard copy email me your address.
Thanks for any help you may be able to give me.
Welcome Home Brother
GC
Gary C. Cooper
3047 SE Boyd Street
Milwaukie, Oregon 97222
503.659.5922
503.659.5958 fax
callalion@hotmail.com
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- Melvin Andreas- 711th a/b Ord. Maint. Co. Sapporo Japan -- Kurt Andreas (Lost), Tue, November 18 2008, 20:16:16 (NoHost/76.178.19.4)
My Father served in Sapporo Japan during WWII for the 711th A/B Ord. Maint. Co. and was a member of the Enlisted Men's Club....but his record's were destroyed in a fire. He courageously died on Father's Day of 2007...without the due respect and honor's he so proudly deserved. If anyone remember's him or served in this Company...please contact his son, me....Kurt. God Bless and Thank You...Sir
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- DD-214 and Applebees restaurant -- Don Poss, Tue, November 11 2008, 8:02:38 (cpe-75-82-190-196.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.190.196)
Gents: My daughter works at Applebees and told me to drop in for a free Veterans "thank you" meal on Tuesday. She said any type proof of being a veteran would qualify.
I started thinking what "proof" ID I could show at Applebees, and remembered that I have been carrying around a laminated DD-214 in my wallet since the day I was discharged and left Travis AFB in 1966. I recall a sergeant putting the fear of God in to me when he handed me the laminated DD-214 card, with words to the effect that if I ever took that card out of my wallet he would hunt me down and that I would therefore still be in the Air Force! It worked! I still have it, sarge, though it's tattered around the edges a little, but then again, so am I.
Don Poss
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- Veterans... -- Jerry Poss, Sat, November 08 2008, 17:21:55 (cpe-75-82-190-196.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.190.196)
A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life wrote a blank check made payable to 'The United States of America ' for an amount of 'up to and including my life.' That is Honor, and there are way too many people who no longer understand that.
Jerry Poss
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- Happy Birthday Marine Corps (November 10) -- Harry Larsen, Sat, November 08 2008, 16:56:44 (75-172-65-188.tukw.qwest.net/75.172.65.188)
Happy Birthday Marine Corps!
Thanks to all past and current Marines who've faithfully served this great nation of ours.
Semper Fidelis,
Harry
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Replies:
- Veterans Day at the Wall -- Jay Gearhart (Saying Thank You), Mon, November 03 2008, 17:48:18 (96-42-150-80.dhcp.trcy.mi.charter.com/96.42.150.80)
Nov . 11th, Veterans Day is quickly approaching. I & a few brothers I served with will attend the Veterans Day ceremonies at the Wall in DC.We will place a wreath in memory of our units fallen & all brothers on that Wall. It is our Day so try to make the most of saying thank you.
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- Upgrade your FREE Java, Flash, Shock, and Adobe Acrobat Reader programs -- Don Poss, Mon, November 03 2008, 15:34:47 (cpe-75-82-190-196.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.190.196)
Gents & Ladies:
If you haven't upgrade your FREE Java, Flash, Shock, and Adobe Acrobat Reader programs in the last several months, it would be a good idea to take a moment and do so now by going to http://www.war-stories.com/ws-troubleshooting-1.asp .
These programs are essential in viewing all that War-Stories.com offers.
Don Poss,
War-Stories Webmaster
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- 71-73 Ansbach Germany -- Diane, Mon, October 13 2008, 21:12:35 (adsl-76-235-194-245.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net/76.235.194.245)
I need some help. A pal of mine was at Ansbach Germany from 71 to 73. He needs info to prove that defoilants were used on the ammo dump and missle site. Possibly agent yello/ agent purple? I am doing everything I can to help him, he now has cancer and type II diabetes. The only way for him to get compensation is to prove that this area was sprayed during this time. Help me please! Thank you, Diane
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- A Poem for My Husband -- Oksana Godwin, Mon, October 06 2008, 20:57:56 (cpe-75-82-144-167.socal.res.rr.com/75.82.144.167)
I am not computer savvy, but I would like to submit a poem,
It Was Only Yesterday, for my husband...SP4 T. Godwin (US Army, 183rd RAC 1st AVN, 1968-1970, War-Stories member).
I wrote for my husband, a Vietnam Veteran. He was there from June 1968 to January 1970. He was drafted.
I did not know my husband when he was an 18-year-old hippie who got drafted. I do have a brother who was drafted when he was 19. He ended up enlisting in the Air Force.
But this poem is for Terry Godwin whom I met when he was a 45-year-old man.
The Vietnam War (police action actually) was my war. I was a young teenager who saw her friends get drafted, go off to a place none of us ever heard of, and some never came home. It seems that every generation has their war, this one was mine.
I have been asking Terry questions about his experiences during the war, but just like everyone else who’s been there, he won’t tell me very much. I say “very much” because I have actually managed to get approximately 4 things in 15 years that happened to him! Which of course I will not speak about either.
However, because I do know the man, have been there during his nightmares, and have found myself part of those nightmares at times, I had this poem to write from my side of the street.
When I read this poem to my husband he said “you got that so right, how did you manage to get into my head?” Well, I didn’t get in his head, I just happened to be a part of his nightmares, and I ‘v had some of my own. I felt his fear and terror during those nightmares he was having, and couldn’t help but be part of them.
So this is where the poem came from. I was sitting at my computer one night and it just came to me. It took me all of 5 minutes to write, but even I was surprised at the outcome. I would like to share this with others because he said I had hit a cord. Perhaps this will help someone somewhere to place a finger on a feeling. I don’t know, I just hurt for all these men, who were young boys when they left. My heart still aches for their lost innocence.
Oksana Godwin August 4, 2008
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- 697th Korat, Thailand 1966 -- James Netherland, Thu, October 02 2008, 13:10:51 (ppp-70-246-102-68.dsl.rcsntx.swbell.net/70.246.102.68)
My name is James Netherland from Louisiana. I was stationed Korat, Thailand Jan.-mid Aug. 1966. Then was sent with an advanced group to Qui Nhon, South Viet Nam from the middle of Aug. until the end of Nov. 1966 TDY with the 697th Engineering Company (Pipeline Unit) USARPAC attached to Company C, 19th Battalion, 18th Brigade. I am trying to find anyone who served with me. I remember a couple of guys names. Ernest French; Virginia, and Ludie Blevins; Kentucky; but, don't know how to contact them. My nicknames were: Swamprat and Swampy. If anyone remembers them or me, please contact me. I now live in Texas. Thanks, James
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- 1965 Danang Air Force Base -- TSGT Crawford W. Garland, Wed, September 24 2008, 21:36:22 (tn-67-236-14-62.dhcp.embarqhsd.net/67.236.14.62)
Does anyone remember a sheet metal worker that came down from Okinawa to fix a hole in one of the C-130 wing. The night that the bombing took place I was out where the C-130's were working on some flare kicks boxes. One of the guys (a TSGT) from Okinawa came out and told me that a C-130 was coming in and he would get me on it to go back to Okinawa. It was right about darkness and I just had enough time to get my tool box and my air-hose.I didn't have enough time to cut the lights off, I just left the flood lights on, and the plane pulled in about the time we got down to terminal. When I landed the next morning in Okinawa the maintenance Officer and maintenance NCO meet the air-craft and I got off and they were shocked to see me, because they had got a report that I was dead in the attack. Now I am having trouble proving I was in Vietnam, and am hoping someone remembers me and can vouch that I was there at Danang. Does anyone remember the mobile homes that were built in Okinawa and were shipped on the C-130's to different bases in Vietnam, most were used for job control and elictronis buildings. I helped build them and delivered all but one of them.
I would appreciate hearing from anyone who remembers me.
TSGT Crawford W. Garland, retired
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Re: TSgt Terance Jensen, KIA 1 July 1965, Da Nang AB -- Don Poss, Fri, July 29 2011, 12:32:45 (cpe-76-166-233-185.socal.res.rr.com/76.166.233.185)