ARCHIVES 2006-2010
From: "Perry Lewis"
perrylewis@nc.rr.com
To: <info@alphaavengers.org
Subject: Vietnam 1968
Date: Mon, 7 May 2007 23:07:14 -0400
My name is Perry A. Lewis. I served in Vietnam with the 2nd of the
501st, Alpha Company, Third Platoon from 1968-69. I came in as a
replacement hooking up with my platoon at LZ Sally in March of 1968. Let
me know if these pictures come through in usable fashion, if not I can
mail them to you. My computer has the capability of increasing the size
of the photos, so let me know if you are able to resize them so they can
be appreciated. I know most of the names in the picture, however I am
not going to offer them unless you request them and you feel the
personnel do not care. I am the soldier holding the snake's head. I just
found your web site recently and thought these photos would be
appreciated. These pictures were just about faded out and I had them
restored. They came out pretty good. They were taken at the end of 1968,
I am not sure what month.
I had been in the hospital for awhile from an injury and had recently
returned back to my platoon. While I was away the platoon had received a
lot of new replacements as it had taken heavy loses on a recent mission.
I was appointed the 3rd squad leader and we had just climbed a tall
mountain. While we were preparing to set up perimeter, I was ordered to
take my squad back down for reconnaissance. All my men were
inexperienced so I took the point and followed a rocky wash back down
the mountain flanking the trail we followed up. I did this in case the
enemy had set up an ambush somewhere along the trail. About three
fourths the way down the rocks became very damp and slippery. I lost my
footing and landed on my butt and slid the rest of the way down holding
my M-16 high overhead and going off a ten to fifteen foot ledge landing
in a big pool of water about chest deep. This 18 and 1/2 foot Burmese
Python was coiled up in the bottom waiting for unsuspecting prey coming
up to the pool of water for a drink. After our encounter, I figured he
must would spring up out of the water and snatch the unsuspecting prey.
I had never expected to encounter something like this so I don't know
who was more surprised me or the snake. He didn't like me invading his
territory nor standing on him and we immediately went into hand to hand,
well hand to snake combat. I kept using my M-16 to shield his attacks
coming up out of the water and loudly blowing and hissing water right in
my face, however it didn't take long for him to gain the advantage and
get a coil around me. My squad had caught up by then and began trying to
help me.
The snake was just too strong. By the grace of God I had the presence of
mind to jerk my sweat towel from around my neck and wrap it around his
eyes blind folding him. He went limp and loosened his coil around and my
men finished loosening his grip and freeing me. We pulled him on out of
the pool of water and were amazed at how long he really was and how
heavy he was. After talking it over with the platoon leader, I was
ordered to bring the snake back up the mountain alive. We lifted him up
on our shoulders and made the long climb back up, exhausted however
successfully. These pictures were taken just after we made it back up. A
chopper was sent out and he was hoisted up in a mail sack and taken to
the rear area. I don't know what happened to him or where he went or
what kind of stories were told about him, however you have the truth
from the squad leader whose squad captured him and the pictures to prove
it. I live in Dunn, North Carolina.
God Bless You,
Perry A. Lewis
(910) 892-8786
Cell (910) 303-0200
Hello fellow Avengers. My name is Barth "Shortround"
Cunico and I served with
2nd Plt, A Co 2/501st Infantry 101st Airborne in Vietnam from the first
week of March 1971 until 14 February 1972. Lt. Joe Hooper was my first
Platoon Leader. I have recently taken over the webmaster duties from Pam
Morris and my first goal was to give the site a complete "facelift" I hope you like
the new look. I would be interested in posting Vietnam era photos from
anyone who wishes to share them. I would also like to narrow down the
"Lost Avenger" list. If you can help, write me at
info@alphaavengers.com.
Welcome Home and Drive On!!!!
Merry Christmas. Any one out there have photos of Firebase Airborne
especially the upper knoll. I am also looking for medal presentation
orders for May 13, 1969 on Airborne to either Alpha or Echo Companies.
Happy New Year. Mark Weston
saintmarks@comcast.net
Dianne, I don't know why I did a search for Alpha Avengers tonight, but I did. There was Jim with Bear and Bobby and Ben in our living room. That was a great day - a great weekend. It meant a lot to Jim and it gave me a deeper appreciation of the man I have loved for the past 38 years.
Thank you to Bear and Bob for keeping in touch with and coming to see "Dino". Thank you for remembering him.
This website is a wonderful tribute to all the Alpha Avengers. God bless you all.
Kathy Mannino - wife of Jim "Dino" Mannino
Your new site is wonderful. Your memorial page is very
touching. Just yesterday I read that of the 2,700,000 of us who served in Nam,
only 850,000 of us are left. It just doesn't seem possible. "It Don't Mean
Nothing." "Drive On!"
Gary D/2/501 June 69 to June 70
I was on Granite in the spring of 1970.I served as a Pathfinder, helping with the resupply and air traffic control. I remember all of the incoming. Tim Goodner.101st aviation group Pathfinder Platoon. timgoodner@msn.com
FANTASTIC Web Site! We have added a link to our monthly newsletter so that more veterans can be made aware of this tremendous resource. Also, please visit our web site to learn about hidden government benefits you are eligible for and how to significantly increase your service-connected compensation or VA pension. http://www.veteranprograms.com
I am trying to find information about my cousin, Cpl. Douglas Wayne Day
who served in the 101st 2-501st E Company. He began his tour in Vietnam on
22-Apr-1970 and was killed at Quang Tri South Vietnam on 06-May-1970. If
anyone knows anything about him, or could even give me some info about his
unit I'd appreciate it. Also, the information that I have says he was
located at FSB Henderson. Thanks to all who have served.
firefighter.emt@hotmail.com
Mom and Pam,
I have finally been able to view this website in its entirety after
participating in the San Antonio Reunion. For the longest time I just
couldn't bear to see the Memorial Page with dad's picture and the music.
It was just too much of a reminder that dad isn't here anymore. I miss dad
every day and whenever I'm at work and need a "dad fix" I can just click
on this web site and see him. Of course I still can't turn on the volume
because of the tears but the pictures are just what I need. Thanks for
doing a great job with this web site at memorializing dad, Ray and Tex in
addition to the other wonderful vets who have passed away.
It was such a wonderful experience to participate in the Reunion. I was
apprehensive to go because I miss dad so much but I am very glad I went.
It was a great honor for me to converse with the men who fought with, next
to and for the same reasons as dad and I am so proud to have spent some
time with them. I know dad was there looking down with a smile on his
face, a cigar in his hand and his belly hanging over his shorts. Thanks
again mom and Pam and thanks to all the Vietnam Veterans and their
families who were present in San Antonio. It meant so much to me.
Amie M. Huber - daughter of Ned T. Kintzer
Without A & E/2/501st I more than likely would not be here typing this. Thank You. You guys were our first line of defense on FSB Airborne during the morning of May 13th 1969. My unit was practically eliminated. I was one of the lucky "10" & I still remember trying to nail that one sapper with the white head band. Too bad his day was also a lucky one.
Thank You, Thank You !!
Mike Myers
C Btry 2/319 Arty, 101st
May 13, 1969-39 years ago today Fire base Airborne was overrun. Thank you to those who fought off the NVA and allowed me to come home.
Mark Weston
"E" Co. 2/501st, 101st Airborne
saintmarks@comcast.net
I am so proud to have found this web site . I served with the brave and
honorable men of the 2/501st. Avengers from September 1968 to October
1969. I hope to hear from some of them and from the ones that I will never
hear from again we must always remember their contribution to the freedom
we all cherish so much.
Thank you so much , Andrew Harey
Hi! I'm John Strass and I like your site!
Thank you!
I was browsing the site and on the letters from home page, ran across
pictures from Rod Songer. The last picture in the series sure looks like
Santos Salinas to me. Do you know anything about it?
Thanks, Alan Wendt
Thank you so much, Pam and Diane for all you have done to document the legacy of A 2/501. In many ways it is like coming home. Thank you Brigadier General James Mitchell for your leadership back in those wild days, and your willingness to take time with each of us in this last year. I would also like to mention my good friend Edward Bishop, KIA Fire Base Granite, 29 APR 1970. He has been and will always be missed.
Alan Wendt
Hard Luck Alpha Aug 69 - Aug 70
Just a friend of a Veteran of Alpha Co. 2/501st, 1969-70. He taught me some valuable lessons about life 37 yrs ago when he made it back to the world. Lessons about life because he lived so close to death everyday. You are all heroes. Welcome Home to all of you and Thank You, Thank you, Thank you!!
Thank you both for all the endless hours you both must put forth on this awesome tribute to the Alpha Avengers and the memorial to Ned, Ray, & "Tex". I know John "Tex" would be so proud of you for carrying on he and his brother's dream of this association. I know Ned and Ray are proud of you also. I remember when John "Tex" would be searching for fellow brothers, that had not been heard from in years, when he was trying to get the Alpha Avenger Association organized. He wanted everyone contacted, for every soldier was important, no matter what his duty may have been. He put his all into this organization and words cannot express to you how touching it is for me to see the care and love put into this site by the two of you. John "Tex" Fair loved his Alpha Avenger brothers. He always told me how special all of you are. God Bless all of you Alpha Avengers for all the sacrifices you gave for our country and "Thank You," for Loving My Brother!
Sincere Love and Appreciation To All,
CATHY & CARY DAMERON
Sister & Brother-in-law of John "TEX" Fair
ccdameron@htcomp.net
A NOTE FROM PAM MORRIS, WEBMASTER, and DIANNE KINTZER, Sec/Treas, OF THE Alpha Avengers of Vietnam Association -
Since the launching of this website on September 21, 2007, we are on our way to almost 1,000 hits. How thrilling for us and for all you Avengers!
We have received so many well wishes and positive comments included in phone calls, e-mails, and notes sent in along with membership dues. It is incredible and at the same time very humbling.
We
continue to update and add new information to the website,
so check back often. Please make it a priority to especially pay close attention
to the following pages---HOME, LOCATE LOST AVENGERS, and GUESTBOOK.
Also, remember to consider making your reservations for the up-coming reunion in
June 2008. That'll be here before you know it! We're looking for a lot of new
faces, so we highly encourage you to attend.
Again, we sincerely THANK YOU for the overwhelming response to YOUR website.
May you have a most joyous Holiday Season, and may the New Year bring good health and happy moments to you and your loved ones. We pray that one day man will live in a world of PEACE. God Bless You All and all the troops serving our country.
In sincere appreciation,
Pam and Dianne
It is with deepest sorrow I write this letter after receiving the Newsletter that told of the passing of John 'Tex' Fair. Tex and I were in the same platoon for most of our tours of duty. I entered Alpha company during stand down in Nov. 70 , Tex probably a month or so later. Unfortunately, the years have all but erased the memories I have of my year in Viet Nam. I remember Tex as just our "sixty gunner", an easy going guy that got along with everybody.
It was Tex who 'found' me back in the early '90's when he would make blind phone calls trying to locate lost Avengers. He probably didn't even know who he was calling, because very few, if any, knew my name. I was only know by the nickname Ken Forsythe had given me when I joined Alpha company, "Peabody". Still remember Jesse Leos, Sgt. Perry and Pringle. A few others whose names I'm not sure of. I was platoon RTO for a long time and I always set up with the the Lt. and medic, that's probably why I don't remember but a few of the guys. I was probably a pain in the ass that nobody wanted to remember. Jeeze, I don't even remember what platoon we were in or the names of the 3 LT's and medics that we went through.
So long "Tex", it
was an honor serving with you.
Danny "Peabody" Straessle (Nov.'70-Dec.'71)
This a great website! I have sent this website to friends of mine and they are so honored to be able to have this website. They send me messages all the time about how they are so drawn to the website. One friend, who did not serve, tells me all the time how much he has learned about Nam from this site and how proud he is of us.
Our three brothers who have left us would be very proud of the website. Gloria and I are making plans to be in San Antonio for the 2008 reunion.
God bless you and all the Alpha Avengers,
Ed(Doc)Cecil
Thanks for a great web site!
As we approach Veteran's Day 2007,
I salute the men of A Company, 2nd Battalion, 501st Infantry for their
service
to the nation, the United States Army, and most importantly, to fellow
Avengers. I remain humbled, proud, and deeply honored to have been an Avenger commander to many of the finest patriots this nation has ever produced. God bless you and your families this Veteran's Day 2007 and never ever forget those we lost.
Brigadier General (Ret) James E. Mitchell, USA.
There is no one who I have more
respect for than our soldiers who put themselves in harms way for the benefit of
their countrymen. They are the greatest and bravest of all.
May God bless you all.
Gerald McVay
Thanks for your service. I have more of an appreciation now that my son is serving.
Thanks for sharing, I love this
website. Please tell Bob we are grateful for him too!
Thank you from the Ware’s.
Bob, great hearing from you! I'm humbled by your kind words and it was my honor to have served as your company commander in A Company while in Viet Nam. All of you are truly a vital part of the long line of great patriots who have answered the call of our nation and your sacrifices, under the harshest conditions, are a testament to the greatness of our nation. Unfortunately, most of our citizens fail to recognize the price you and countless others have made in service to our country. I, for one, take nothing you and other veterans did for granted and will be forever grateful and privileged to have walked the ground you walked on. You, like all those who served in A Company, are a special breed of men and I will forever remember each of you fondly.
As for me, I took the lessens learned from each of you in A Company and charged
on until retiring after 30+ years in the uniform. I'd change few things over the
course of my career, given the change, and if I could do it all over again I'd
enlist tomorrow! Career wise, I stayed in light infantry assignments and
operational staff jobs almost totally. I ended up commanding 4 infantry
companies, a light infantry battalion, and a light infantry brigade. In between
commands and formal schooling I was a battalion S3, division G3, Chief of
Current Operations for the Army in the Pentagon, and Deputy Director of
Operations for the National Military Command Center, the Joint Staff. I also
managed to complete assignments as the Deputy Commander for Operations and
Deputy Commander for Support for the 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks,
Hawaii. I certainly will put the A Company reunion dates on my schedule
for next summer and will make every effort to attend. Again, great hearing
from you and I look forward to continuing the dialogue.
Warmest Regards,
BG(Ret) Ed Mitchell
Dianne & Pam,
I would like to thank you both for the time you spent on the site, it is fantastic. I know it had to take numerous hours of time and thought but it certainly paid off.
Ned, LT Houghton
and Tex would be very proud of both of you.
Linda and I are making plans for the San Antonio reunion
but know it won’t be quite the same without the 3 of them.
Again thanks and I know all of the Alpha avengers are thankful as well.
Jim Sims
Bardstown, KY
TO ALL AVENGERS,
PLEASE SEND YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS TO ME SO WE HAVE CORRECT INFO ON ALL A CO/2ND/501ST/101ST AIRBORNE! IF YOU NEED INFO ON SOMEONE JUST SINGOUT!
IN BROTHERHOOD,
GijoeLudwick@cox.net
(405)819-4653
Pam & Dianne Great job on the new Website SALUTE to You !!
Thank you. Wayne Smyly
11-69 -10-70
3rd Platoon
This is April Blakeslee, Ray Houghton's daughter. I saw the website over the weekend, and it is absolutely wonderful! I was crying the whole time I was looking at it. It was such a wonderful tribute to my Dad, Ned, and Tex. Really, really wonderful. It was hard to see it at the same time; I still can't believe my Dad is gone. It just doesn't seem like it could be possible. But it's so nice to know he had such friends that cared that much about him to do such a wonderful tribute. So thank you from all of us.
PAM, DIANNE,
THE WEBPAGE LOOKS GREAT.
GIJOE LUDWICK
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK.
VIETNAM 1970 ALPHA
A wonderful website. Thank you to all of our Nam Vets for their service to our country. God Bless.
John Bouvier
Owensboro, KY
Thank you for a job "WELL DONE." A Tribute to Vietnam Vets. It's really hard for many to understand that fighting for someone else's freedom is fighting for our own. Please click on the following: http://www.operationmom.org/ToOurParents.html
Great Job. Makes us proud to be from "Hard Luck Alpha" after all.
Best Regards to all.
Bob Nichol
Staff Sgt DEROS Aug, 1970 3d Platoon
Specials E-4 May 70 to Jan 71
Richard Olson, good website. Proud Eagle.
Veteran of Firebase Henderson and
Ripcord.
Would like to name Richard Timmos as All Gave Some award.
God Bless all
Eagles.
09-21-07
What a beautiful tribute to our heroes! Great work on the website. I look forward to coming back for updates.
With much appreciation for all those who have served and are serving....
The Brice Family...Chuck, Sue, Mike & Caitlyn
09-21-07
What a wonderful memorial
for your loved ones! Great job! Betty Slaveski
09-21-07
Beautiful website! Dianne, I passed it on to the rest of the family especially the two that fought in "Nam"
Love & Prayers to all the families..
God Bless America
Susie H
09-21-07
Dear Avengers and Friends,
Words are inadequate to thank you, and to reveal my deepest gratitude to you all for the kindness shown in the passing of my husband, Ned Kintzer. Your prayers, love, phone calls, e-mails, cards and letters, and contributions given in memory of Ned have made my heart focus on thanksgiving to God for such precious friends.
A special word of thanks to
fellow Avengers, Avery Dalton and his family, for driving the long distance to
attend Ned's funeral in N.C.,
and to Glen Means for attending the memorial
service in PA. Also, a sincere thank you to
Bob Morris, Avenger Past President,
for sending a beautiful letter which was
read at both Ned's funeral and memorial services.
The passing of Ned has dealt a life-altering blow to me and my family, but we will continue to "DRIVE ON".
With sincere appreciation,
Dianne Kintzer and Family
09-20-07
Welcome to our new website. We are all excited to hear from everyone.
Bob and Pam Morris
09-20-07
To Whom It May Concern:
I served with 1st Plt A Co 2/501st Infantry 101st Airborne in Vietnam from 31 August 1971 to 15 February 1972.
1. How do
I become a member?
2. Also, I
have all of my Nam pictures (170+ in .jpg format) as well as my "Task Force
2/501 - Drive On - Phu Bai -- Cam Ranh Bay Republic of Vietnam
1971-1972" Yearbook.
If
interested in receiving .jpg pictures of all, I can mail you a CD containing
such. I also have copies of my medal awards orders etc.
(listing other comrades), if interested as well.
Please advise.
Yours truly,
Robert O'Bryan
P.S. I am a member of the following veterans organizations (in reserve chronological order):
-
Non Commissioned Officers Association of the United States of America
-
Present; Regular Life Member No. 004182909
-
Combat Infantrymens Association (04 Present, Life Member No. 5382TXL0804-LIFE
-
Vietnam Veterans of America (02 Present, Life Member No. 263979)
-
Chapter 685101st Airborne Division Association, Inc. Life Member No. LM3976
-
The American Legion (83 - Present, "Paid-Up-For-Life Card No. 56417 Post 89, Dpt. TX, Texas City, TX
-
Veterans Of Foreign Wars (VFW) of the United States (82 - Present, Life Member No. 436449), Assistant Adjutant 83 - 84 [VFW Post 5400, Alta Loma,TX
Robert E.
and Mayet B. O'Bryan
555 Cedar
Fork Drive
League
City, TX 77573-9051
281-557-1116
07-21-07
SSG Ross, 2nd Plt 2/501st - April 30, 1970 to November 1970. FSB Henderson and FSB Ripsord.
Please contact at the following:
David L.
Ross 1sg (Ret) US Army
4019 Ashland City Road
Clarksville,
TN 37043
931-362-2692
06-23-07
I am trying to get a message to Clifton Whitaker. I have just found this site and I served with him in 1968. I was in third platoon Alpha Co and my platoon was walking point for him on 20 July 1968. He asked me to walk point man for him that day and after exhaustion, he gave me a break with Evans ( "Cool Pappa") and Gibson both listed as KIA on 20 July 1968. As we scaled a steep mountain I was third man when "Cool Pappa" and Gibson were cut down by an enemy machine gun ambush. The rounds barely missed me as I had just crossed over the crest line. As I dove for cover a trip wire caught me around the neck and I cringed as I hit the ground waiting for the blast.
I looked in amazement at an old chicomb grenade strapped to a tree as it spewed and sputtered, it was a dud. After realizing we were separated from the platoon and that no help was coming, with God's Grace I was able to crawl forward to "Cool Pappa" against the machine gun fire. Somehow the rounds just wouldn't hit me. When I got to him and realizing how bad his wounds were, I lifted him up and carried him running back down the trail just as a sniper opened up on us. Lieutenant Whitaker had made it up to the crest line and met me when I got there with "Cool Pappa." The sniper's rounds were hitting all around us while we were talking. The Medic, James Cleveland took a round and died on the spot just a few meters away. I told Lieutenant Whitaker that I had promised Gibson that I would go back for him.
His wounds were so bad that I straddled him on all fours and crawled back and drug him back through the sniper fire. I got him back alive. It was a tough and tragic day for us that day. I learned later that both "Cool Pappa" and Gibson went into shock on the Medivac and died enroute to the hospital.
I was devastated that they died and I lived. Lieutenant Whitaker put me in for a Silver Star. I actually didn't get it until after I came home. I wanted to thank him. After I came back with Gibson, Lieutenant Whitaker was amazed that I made it back alive and told me he wanted to talk to me later and get the details and wanted to know how I had accomplished getting them out. Sir, I am reporting the details to you now and it was by the grace of God that I survived that day. "Cool Pappa" had begged me to get him to his family. He saw them standing back down the trail where I carried him and Gibson had made me promise that I would not leave him there for the enemy.
I offered my life to fulfill
their promises. God chose not to take mine at that time. I didn't see Lieutenant
Whitaker again after that day. I think he had 11 days left and he left on one of
the Medivacs that day and I never saw him again.
I live in Dunn, North Carolina.
God Bless You,
Perry A. Lewis
2nd/501st
Alpha Company Third Platoon
1968-69
05-06-07
From : <barth @ bcunico.com>
Sent : Tuesday, January 2, 2007 8:05 PM
Subject : 1971 and on
My name is Barth Cunico and I proudly served under the leadership of Lt. Joe Hooper's Alpha Company, 2nd 501st. My tour of duty in Vietnam was Feb 1971 through Feb 1972. I was in the fox hole/crater when Pete Winter took a direct from an enemy mortar round. SSGT Wentworth and I flew from the rear to the firebase the first time we went to the bush.
Best Regards,
Barth
From : <DMRB2501 @ aol.com>
Sent : Saturday, July 15, 2006 4:19 PM
Subject : CHECK IT OUT
A PAGE WORTH LOOKING AT.......
DAVE REINHEIMER B 2/501 68-69.....
B2501AIRBORNE.COM......&&& ..http://www.thedropzone.org/units/501history.html
From : Ron Craig <hiker @ iquest.net>
Sent : Wednesday, June 15, 2005 3:04 PM
Subject : FSB Airborne
Alpha Avengers,
I have been looking at your website for quite a while now and with a great deal of interest. I passed through FSB Airborne on May 22, 1969, as D/2/506 patrolled the area as part of operation Apache Snow. What adds to my interest, though, is the fact that my platoon was security on the perimeter adjacent the battalion aid station on the FSB (I don’t remember its name) that the casualties from Airborne were brought to for treatment. It was a sad and moving sight that I shall never forget. Wounded solders, some very badly, were laying all over the place in a triage that was nothing more than the bare earth. My platoon and the mess company helped move the wounded from choppers to the surgeon’s tent. They worked hard and with compassion, and I was, and am, proud of them.
I have attached pictures of the battalion surgeon (again, name unknown) and a Russian 106, which had been unearthed and was on the FSB. The surgeon was awarded the Silver Star for his Herculean efforts in saving many lives. He deserved it, and more! If you can identify the surgeon and the FSB, or either one, I would really appreciate hearing from you (or even if you can’t). If you are interested in the pictures, feel free to use either one.
Ron Craig
Indianapolis, Indiana
D/2/506 1969
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Oct 25 2010
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From:
fullwoodronniedd@bellsouth.net
Sent: Tuesday, December 22, 2009 1:04 PM
Subject: Re: Firebase Airborne
Merry Christmas
Jennifer and family and Pam and family! I hope all is well with
you all and you are enjoying this wonderful Christmas Season. I haven't
talked with either of you in some time but wanted to let you know the
Tennessee Highway Commission recently approved the memorial sign for my
friend Cleabern Hill Jr that was killed on Firebase Airborne. We hope to
have a nice service and dedicate the memorial signs on Hwy 142 this
spring here in our little small town of
I still have been researching and reading
as much as I can about this battle. Jennifer if you have any reading
info or anything along that line that you once mentioned, I still would
love to read it. I would also like to get in touch with
Ronnie Fullwood
Dec 12, 2009
Hey, Shortround. Thanks for passing along the photos. "Bro Coon" was one
of my favorite guys. He was a friendly guy, and never gave me any crap,
even tho I had to assign some pretty unpleasant duties to him. I was
never comfortable calling him Bro Coon, and called him by his real
name... Crosby Lanham, even tho he preferred his nickname. "Sgt. Ed" and
Lt. Guill were real quality guys and were still with the unit at Phu Bai
when I ETS'd. Any idea what became of them ? Anyone hear from the
"Douche" ?
My duffle bag got lost somewhere between Da Nang and Seattle, so the
only photos I have are the ones I sent home. I'll try to post some when
I go back to Ca. in the spring. Do you happen to recall the name of the
firebase near Phu Bai, that was brand new, having just been built for
the ARVNs to take over ? It was so new, the rats hadn't even taken over
the bunkers yet. I have some pictures from there, and can't, for the
life of me, remember the name of that place. You and your family have a
cool Yule. Rick
rnpooler@comcast.net
Nov 23, 2009
Barth (Shortround),
My name is Jimmy (Jumping Jim) Williams. Do you remember me?? We served
together in Alpha Co. 2nd Platoon 2nd Bat./ 501st Infantry in Vietnam. I
hung around with Bob (Rock) Saul and Wayne (Bear) Anderson. I was
looking at the Alpha Avenger website and saw your post from several
years ago. I don't know if this is still a good e-mail address for you
but thought I would try it and say hello.
Rock called me recently to catch up and tell me about the upcoming
reunion. Apparently I have been a lost Avenger but am now back in the
fold and a member of our organization.
My wife and I are planning to attend the reunion in Charleston next
summer. This will be my first reunion and I am looking forward to seeing
some old friends. Are you going to be there? It would be great to see
you.
I took a lot of pictures in Vietnam and have at least one of you. If you
would like I could scan and try to send you a few.
Where are you now and what have you been doing the last 38 years??
I have been a PGA Golf Professional at 3 different golf clubs in S.W.
Virginia the past 30 years and am semi-retired now. I still give golf
lessons and play quite a bit but am no longer working at a club.
(website below) I have 2 great sons 3 grandkids and a fantastic wife,
life is good.
Hope you get this and would love to hear from you.
Jimmy - jteew3@hotmail.com
............PRAY FOR OUR TROOPS!!..........
Jimmy Williams, PGA
Christiansburg, Virginia
www.jimmywilliamspga.com
PGA Professionals-"The Experts in the Game & Business of Golf"
From:
fullwoodronniedd@bellsouth.net
Sent: Wednesday, October 21,
2009 3:34 PM
Subject: Info on
Hi Pam!
It was so good to talk to Bob the other night on the
phone. Please tell him how much I appreciate him taking the time and
talking about such a delicate matter. I do hope to gather up all my
info, letters, and photos and maybe come to the next reunion. I did get
in touch via e-mail with Capt Gordon Johnson who was my friend's company
commander and he too was very nice and informative. Of course he had so
many men under his command he could not remember very many specifics
about my friend, Junior. I really want to write or talk to Sgt
Ronnie Fullwood
From:
fullwoodronniedd@bellsouth.net
Sent:
Monday, October 12, 2009 3:55 PM
Subject: Fw:
Dear Pam and Gordon
I am a dentist in
I am also currently spearheading a project in which we
are going to dedicate a five mile section of Hwy 142 near
I always worry that some of these veterans out there may not want to re-live those bad memories and I sure respect them for that and I would never want to hurt any feelings. I just want to contact any of those willing to share any photos, info or stories about my friend. I hope to hear from you all. Thanks so much! Ronnie Fullwood
From: john [mailto:jcudd@sccisp.net]
Sent: Saturday, August 08, 2009 7:16 AM
To: pmorris@bham.rr.com
Subject: boonie rats
hi, my name is john cudd.
i served with bn hhq originally and was assigned to different co's
during '68, shipped over with the brigade in '67.
i'm sending a pic i took of some of the guys. sorry i can't remember the
co. we were with at the time. could have been alpha, i am looking to put
names on this picture. i really have tried to forget over the years, but
now am trying to remember. mission impossible i think. thank you all,
and god bless you. you are forever in my heart, even though i can't
remember diddly, but a few incidents.
sincerely, john
NOTE: John was with HHC and Delta 2/501
From:
fullwoodronniedd@bellsouth.net
Sent:
Tuesday, July 14, 2009 3:11 PM
I did find the after action report on the internet about the battle of Fire Base Airborne and there was some names in that report. I found the list of casualties where Junior was listed as KIA. I sure wish I could find someone that was there and knew Junior (That was the name we all knew him as).
I would appreciate any info or suggestions as to seeking more information about my dear old friend. Where might I find and get copies of his Military service, etc? Thanks so much in advance for any help. - Ronnie Fullwood
Feb 2009
Hi,
I am hoping that someone out there may remember my uncle or know of someone I can get in touch with that does. His name was Robert Malecki and he served in Vietnam from 11-29-68 to 5-13-69. He was killed at Firebase Airborne on the 13th. His unit was A CO, 2nd BN, 501st Infantry, 101st Airborne. Anyone with any information about that area or people who may have known him, I would love to talk to you. Thank you for your time.
Jennifer Gaines
click on pics: McCoy1
McCoy2
McCoy3
McCoy4
McCoy5
From: Dawn [joyfulgirl_26@yahoo.com]
Sent: Tuesday, January 13, 2009 3:06 AM
To: McCoy, Kalleen; Christine; Dad; Dean DiCarlo; Deborah DiCarlo; Mom
Subject: We made it...
Hi all!
We are back in Ha Giang. We loved the town of Dong Van so much that we
extended our trip by one day. So we spent two nights in Dong Van instead
of one. Definitely no internet there! It was pretty spectacular. We saw
Muong women dressed in their costumes, two markets and a lot of amazing
scenary! We have eaten with the locals...as well as drinking...they seem
to really get a kick out of us! It's so funny because Vietnamese people
are generally very petite people. So all the chairs that they use to
sit-on for meals are one foot tall, plastic kids chairs. I'm not even
kidding!
You would be hard pressed to find a regular chair around here! We drink
local alcohol with dinner...basically moon-shine (either corn or from
local fruit) that they poor into water bottles. Our guides would pour
four shot-sized glasses...one for each of us...then we would cheers
(They say zyo!) and down the hatch! Then, locals would come to our
table...only one person at a time...and they would ask our guide if they
could have a drink with us.
They would pour a round, toast, drink then the local would shake our
hands and leave. It was quite fun and funny!
Needless to say, we have been enjoying ourselves and getting some great
pictures in the process.
I'll stop rambling for now. Tomorrow we are on our way back to Hanoi
The pictures I attached are from our first destination, Ba Be National
Park. We went to the lake the first evening we arrived (the panoramic
shot of the lake). Then, the next morning we got a two hour boat ride
around the lake. It was beautiful and a lot of fun. The other panoramic
view is of the rice paddies in Dong Van. Enjoy!
Stafford, William [William.Stafford@elliman.com]
Looking for anyone who might remember me in summer of 1970 . Was senior aide medic. I was wounded by mortar round loading wounded on chopper.
Doc Stafford
Doc Stafford @hotmail.com
Sep 20, 2010
(A note from Pam Morris about her husband Bob):
I just wanted to thank everyone for all the prayers, thoughts, phone calls and concern while Bob has been in the hospital. This took us totally by surprise. Please please never ignore any possible heart attack warning signs. It could mean your life. We have been blessed that it was not Bob’s time to go see the Father. He has been given a second chance…..something so many do not get…….like my Dad earlier this year.
It was a complete nightmare and Bob had an abscessed tooth with a 105 fever that he was blaming his pains on. Could it have been some of his problem? Yes. Maybe…but bottom line there was something going on with his heart. I want to thank Dr. John Bivona who realized this was more than he could handle. Ran into a few problems after the ER sent us home Wednesday night. However, we were back on Thursday where we had some of the best nurses and doctors ever. We both are so thankful for our medical profession. At first they were worried the tooth infection might have spread to his heart valves so they checked that first but on Saturday morning, lab test confirmed he was having/had a heart attack and he was sent for heart catherazation. Some blockages were found but not enough to do anything other than treat with medicines. We will also be having some major HEALTHY lifestyle changes at the Morris home. Just wanted to make sure everyone knew what was going on. I know some have heard bits and pieces. He is weak and still a ways from being well but he has a nurse that is right by his side and loves him more than life itself. I may be ready to choke him soon but right now he’s been a great patient.
Thank you again and please continue to remember us in your prayers.
Love you all,
Pam
Aug 12, 2010
Patrick Graves wrote the following:
Would like to talk with anyone that was in this company during January – August 1969. Saw post from Ron Craig but his email address is bad. Ron, you out there?
Ron had left a post in 2007 about the casualties coming into FSB Blaze from the May 13th sapper attack on FSB Airborne. That message can be found on the "Archives" page.
Aug 2, 2010
Thank you for this website.
Phillip C. Wade
E/2/501 1971 Recon Bastogne, Rifle, Cam Rohn Bay
phillipcwade@juno.com
Wade Tech, LLC
PO Box 6614
Dothan, Al 36302
334-446-0445 P/F
Aug 1, 2010
Unknown Firebase Photos
Could the Fire Base been Eagles Nest. It was a lookout during Hamberger Hill period. I am old Bco2nd501stinf
Walter Bouman
928-759-8668
951-285-3285 Cell
Airborne
Jul 22, 2010
hello Barth i was at pistol for thanksgiving in 69 it was a very small firebase no action so it was closed up in a few months i believe iwas in1st 501st running generators for como with a guy from East St Lewis ill. named jim wiegard also at pistol I am not much for typing not in any vet orginasations my wife works at a vet ctr it is a nursing home for vets she enjoys working there helping the old guys went to the wall for rolling thunder a few times always enjoyed it. will dig out my pictures and have me daughter send them to you tell me about yourself i was at lz sally and camp eagle 69 70 talk to you again joe sparrow 815 meade st dunmore pa 18512 570 342 0842 worked hard last 40 yrs still think i can out work most 20 yr olds had a auto body shop 35 yrs now work with my son excavating and demolition did a few jobs in a army depot locaL ALWAYS FELT A LITTLE HOME THERE
JOE SPARROW - JSparrowExc@aol.com
Jul 22, 2010
Doc Stafford’s comment on 7/12/10 left out the fact that due to heavy ground fire he and other wounded Alpha Avengers were not able to be air lifted out for several days, we needed to secure a surrounding hilltop and establish an LZ.
“Doc” will also find a picture of himself that was taken on FSB Brick (Brian Eveleth photo’s top row far right), in that same picture with Doc Stafford is Dave Schmidli and Rich Johnson, both were also wounded during the same timeframe and sent stateside ---the mission which was to relieve 2/506 on Hill 902 near FSB Ripcord.
Brian Eveleth 70-71
PS. Also attached another picture that I took of Doc at FSB Brick.
(I posted this pic on the "Firebases page" - Shortround)
Jul 12, 2010
I am amazed that it is 40 years ago I was hit on July 4, 1970 on some long forgotten hill is the ashu valley.
Doc Stafford. Airborne
Alpha company 2/501 101st airborne division
Jul 9, 2010
Hi,
I have a new email address that you can post on the Avengers website:
Roger J. Barski rjbarski@gmail.com 773-259-1923
Jun 2, 2010
Hello from Bob Reynolds, served in Nam, A Co. 2nd of 501st with my assistant gunner Danny Kohl from Colorado. He was killed the night before he was to go on R&R to meet his wife and baby he'd never seen. Why is he not listed In Memory section for those killed in Vietnam? I Left Nam in April 1970. I believe he was killed in early 1970. Please look into this. His name is on the Wall at the Vietnam memorial.
Thank You, Bob Reynolds - bobreynolds@charter.net
May 26, 2010
Hello. My name is Leiah Zaragoza. I am the niece of Victor Zaragoza, the inaugural recipient of your "Some Gave All" award. I never had the honor of meeting my uncle in person, since he died about five years before I was born. But, for as long as I can remember, my dad (Victor's older brother Joe) has had a unwavering devotion to keeping my uncle's memory alive. So much so that I have always felt as if I knew him personally. Ever since I was a little girl, I have felt a reverence for my uncle and for the sacrifices he made for so many in Vietnam.
My family is running a memorial ad this weekend to commemorate my uncle, which will run in our local newspaper, the Imperial Valley Press, this Sunday, May 30th. Since it honors all soldiers who have died for this county, my dad and I, who co-create this ad, would like to forward you a copy (attached). We would be honored if you shared it with those who knew him.
Thank you for your continued work, recognition and devotion to our heroes of the Vietnam War.
Sincerely,
Leiah Zaragoza
For more about Victor's Some Gave All Award, click here.
May 9, 2010
Hey Man
I was with you and LT Hooper in the nam. They called me Reb, I was a
redleg who took over as the platoon medic when Heinz go blowed away,
along with LT Champlain (spelling). I remember when we got up f**ked up,
and you told off CPT Zimmerman, or said something to him.
Hope this jogs some kind of memory
Dave "Reb" Sisney -
kimchidog2001@yahoo.com
Apr 11, 2010
Barth, I have been in contact with James Lane from Ky, he was the one
that told me about the website, I will send my $25.00 for membership due
for this year. I was looking at the yearbook and came across some
pictures that I remember, Larson, O'Tremba. Will look for some pictures
that I have and will forward them, also, do you know if James Hunn has
an email, I would like to contact him, if not, I will write him a note,
he was my Lt., well got to go, will continue to scan the website for
other "brothers".
Like to complete my address information on the website;
Jose R Mendoza
7520 Forest Edge
San Antonio, TX 78233
email ** josermen@aol.com
Apr 7, 2010
Just wanted to say I was in Nam Jan 71 To Dec 71. I also was with Alpha
2/501. I was a 60 gunner in 4th plt. with SSG Hibbard. I am sure we ran
into each other at some time. Again, welcome home.
Joseph Wilkins
101jbw@sbcglobal.net
Apr 4, 2010
Shortround,
Don't know if you rember me or not, my name is Jim Lane.
I went to 2nd plt in Aug of 71, flown out to the field in the firebase
rifle AO. Saw your address on the averengers site and thought I would
write-------now can't think of much to say. Any way if I ring a bell let
me hear from you.
Jim (AKA Turkey, You Yankee named me)
blanek@windstream.net
Mar 28, 2010
I'm looking for Dale Lewis email address in vietnam. Can you help? Tom.
Thomas Hook [thomas.hook@fuse.net]
Jan 9, 2010
Name entry maker: Ann Marie Dombrowski
Email address: shmilyp@aol.com
Comment:
Thank you all for serving. You''re all heroes, everyone one of you. God
Bless
I''m Michael Dorch''s daughter. He''s my hero
Jan 5, 2010
John Cudd: HHC and Delta 2/501 Ron Betts: HHC S/2 2/501 Avenging
Brothers When I get a complete list of the originals Ill b able to make
contact for you on maybe 6, 8, or 10 of them that are missing maybe.
Could u send me a list of the present and accounted for when u get a
chance. I do appreciate the job that u r doing. First Sgt Brander was a
fine man. Did u know him? I only had minimal contact with Joe Hooper. It
was very informal. What a repertoire he had. He dwarfs me. I have had
encounters with people in some wierd and unexpected places in my life.
Now we are coming together Barth. God bless you.
PS Was the original Company Commander from brunswick GA. Could u please
tell me his name or last known address if u have it please? If u ever
need help or assistance with anything let me know.
Michael Dorch -
eagleeyez101@yahoo.com
Jan 4, 2010
From: Michael Dorch
I'm from Tampa Fl not Panama City Fl. My name is Michael E Dorch not
Michael F Dorch. I personally knew Joe Hooper.. The day he got his CMH I
got a ACM/V. Went from PVT to SGT real fast. I had the pleasure of
talking to first Sgt Brander a couple months before he died. I was an
original in 67. I need a favor. I need to know my COs name its
important. Is he from Brunswick Ga. I salute you for the work you are
doing Sir. Do you think u can give a special website salute to Lowell
Lockhart from Whitwell Tn. I apreciate this very much. If u would like to
know my background with the company go to
http://home.att.net/~lzvietnam/fb173dd.htm.
phou yen was a lot of inglorious bastards. Which i say with utmost respect and admirability. If u hear from anybody from 2nd platoon or the whole company please give them my email address. Would like to hear from them. 24/7 Geronimo. Im in Alvin TX now. (813) 363 8393 Thank you Shortround. Eagleeyez Sgt ret Michael E Dorch.
Dec 29 2010
Hello and Happy New Year to you. Your website was sent to me by Stephen
Folstrum. He was a platoon leader with Brovo Company. I was a platoon
leader with Charlie Company then
took over a Mobil Training Team. I was called back to take over a
platoon with you guys, Alpha Company. Below is a newspaper article that
was written when I returned from Nam. I
hope I did this right.
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1320607540921&set=a.1320606220888.2041549.1402783872&pid=30791955&id=1402783872
The article pretty much details most of my experience in Nam. Since I
wasn't with the Company but for a few days, I really don't remember too
many names. After I got hit on
Henderson and came out of the hospital, I was assigned as Batallion S2.
I was also on Ripcord when we got over run and evacuated. I hope this
get thru to you. Great job with the
website. Many thanks for putting it all together. Hope to hear back from
you. God Bless.
1Lt (Former) Lyn Hargrave
Platoon Leader, Charley and Alpha Co.
Batallion S2
2/501; 101st Airborne/Airmobile Div
"Keep from people who try to belittle your ambition...
Small people always do that. But the really great people make you feel
that, you too can become great." -- Mark Twain
Lyn Hargrave
Nov 28, 2010
Shortround, My name is Zbigniew P Adamczyk , also known as PORKY , A
nickname given to me by Ken Forsythe out in the bush. After 40 years I
finally build up some courage to get
on 101st abn sites to see what I can find. Scrolling on to the alpha
2/501 abn I was amazed at what I was missing all these years! ALL THE
PICTURES FACES NAMES and firebases
that I knew was just overwhelming. I am so sorry that I waited all these
years. You probably don't remember me ,but I remember when I first saw
you. It was just outside of firebase
Bastonge where we were clearing and blowing up ammo dumps that we found.
One night it was still light out sgt Vodica , Forsythe, Peapody, and a
couple other guys and I were playing
poker when all hell broke loose. One of the squads that you were in were
going out on night ambush and came into contact. I remember scrambling
and crawling looking for my weapon
. Also a TV crew came out took film footage and did an interview with
you. This all happened in the middle to the end of March and early April
1971. A day or two later we were
choppered back to firebase Bastonge.
In the morning we were choppered out to a hot lz .never landed back to
Bastonge and helicoptered back to a empty firebase took lots of incoming
and cassualties. Then we were picked
up by choppers at the bottom of the empty firebase and flown to another
hill. Couple days later I was told to pack my gear. I was going home for
30 day emergency leave. I never
returned to vietnam. I applied for a hardship discharge and received an
honorable discharge at FT SHERIDAN IL in June 1971. I saw you being
interviewed on the tv show 1st Tuesday
and my squad and others were shown on tv in early March 1971. After that
tv show I felt total guilt and shame for not returning back to Vietnam
even after 40 years I still feel guilt, I
guess that's why I'm a lost avenger. THANKS, I hope I haven't bored you.
I would love to join the Avengers. Talk with the many brave men I had
the honor to serve with.
Thank you and all the other Brave men and women who have served our
Great Country. I would enjoy the opportunity to communicate with you and
others who served. Please feel free
to contact me if you too, feel the same.
God Bless You and God Bless America!
(on a final note, I go under the name of Bill here in the states)
Zbigniew Paul Adamczyk Sr. a.k.a. Bill
(another note from Zbigniew Paul Adamczyk)
I was in the 1st platoon, 1st Squad. Sgt. Vadicka was our platoon
leader. I would appreciate if you would put my name into the Guestbook.
I have some photos from my time in Nam and
would share them with you. I will have one of my sons post the photos. I
don't quite now how to do that. Some of the names of guys from my squad
are Danny (Peabody) Straessle, our
RTO. Ken Forsythe, Jim McBride, Cunningham and Jessie Lagos. I do not
remember our squad leaders name. I think I recall playing cards with Tex
in the bush
It is really great to
talk with you. It's been 40 years so I have talked with anyone from the
101st. Thanks again, I really appreciate it.
Bill
Merry Christmas. Any one out there have photos of Firebase Airborne especially the upper knoll. I am also looking for medal presentation orders for May 13, 1969 on Airborne to either Alpha or Echo Companies. Happy New Year. Mark Weston
saintmarks@comcast.net
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