Family Serving in the Military: Father ,Floyd, served in the US Navy in WWII in the Pacific at Okinawa , Brother, Gene, Served in the US Army in Vietnam 1967/68 at Dak To, Brother, Doug, served in the US Army at FT Meade. ********** Basic and Advanced Infantry Training:.********** On June 16,1969, I received a draft letter from the Nobles County Minnesota Draft Board ordering me to report to the Los Angeles County Induction Center. This was a day after our son Jeffrey was born. I visited an Army recruiter to try and delay my entry into the Army. The recruiting officer advised me I could delay my entry by enlisting. I took his advice and enlisted in the Army effective July 31, 1969. This gave me extra time to move my wife, Sandy, and son, Jeff, closer to her family before I left for the Army. On July 31,1969 I reported to the induction center. At the induction center we had a physical and I was sworn into the Army. We were then bused from Los Angeles CA to Fort Ord CA. Basic Training was quite an experience. A lot of different educational and physical training. I did quite well and I was 1 of 2 soldiers in our Battalion to earn a perfect score of 500 in the Physical Combat Proficiency Test. Upon graduating basic training, I was promoted to Private E2. My best friend in Basic Training was Steve Boyce. I continued with Advanced Infantry Training at Fort Ord. My best friends were Steve Werner and Steve Sager. ********** VIETNAM, AMERICAL DIVISION 3rd BATALION 1st Infantry 11th BRIGADE: (D/3-1).********** On January 9,1970, a plane load of soldiers left Fort Lewis Washington with a destination of South Vietnam. On the flight I was with Steve Werner and Steve Sager. Our flight took us to Hawaii, Wake Island and we landed in Cam Ranh Bay South Vietnam on January 10, 1970. We were processed into Vietnam. I was promoted to PFC and a few days later I was sent, by a C130 Airplane, to the Americal Division located in Chu Lai South Vietnam. Both Steve’s were sent to other locations. We kept in touch by letter during my time in Vietnam, but I never saw either of them again. They both made it home, but we did not stay in touch. I spent the next several days in jungle warfare training. It was an unreal experience hearing gunfire and rocket mortars exploding at all times of the day and night. I was then transported by truck, on Highway 1, to Duc Pho and was processed into Company D of the 3rd Battalion 1st Infantry 11th Brigade (D/3-1). From there I was airlifted, by a Huey Helicopter, to Firebase 4-11 (FB 4-11) near Quang Ngai. I spent a couple of days on FB 4-11 before being airlifted to Company D on January 24. D/3-1 was in the bush not far from FB 4-11. The operational guides for the Battalion was to spend 30 days in the bush and then 5 to 10 days on FB 4-11. I was assigned to the 3rd Platoon. The next several days were very scary patrolling through the lowlands, setting up night defensive positions (NDP), day loggers, and pulling night guard duty in the area called the Horseshoe and along the Tra Khuk river in Quang Ngai Province. During my tour, we encountered many search and destroy missions, firefights and mortar attacks. The following are the incidents where we encountered the enemy, had comrades killed in action (KIA) or wounded in action (WIA). Sources are the Americal Division Tactical Center Logs recorded, my best memory, my letters sent to mom, and other published articles and materials. Every attempt was to make this document accurate.**********On Jan 25, D/3-1, engaged with M-16 small arms fire (SAF) and M-60 machinegun automatic weapons fire (AWF), 7 VC in sampans. We killed 5 VC and destroyed 2 sampans. Later we received sniper fire from the N side of the river. Later that day we found a tunnel complex and a shell of a helicopter. Tunnel was destroyed. ********** On Jan 26, D/3-1, engaged with SAF/AWF, 2 VC in sampan. We killed both VC and destroyed the sampan. ********** On Feb 2, D/3-1, engaged with SAF/ AWF several VC killing 5 VC, one VC was a female with backpack. ********** On Feb 5, D/3-1, engaged with SAF/AWF 1 VC in sampan wearing black PJ’s. We killed the VC and destroyed the sampan. ********** On Feb 8, D/3-1, engaged with SAF/WAF VC in sampan killing 1 of the VC and destroyed the sampan and captured a pistol and holster. Later that day we engaged with SAF/AWF, 7 VC killing all 7. ********** On Feb 9, D/3-1, engaged with SAF/WAF 1 VC wearing black PJ’s killing him. ********** On Feb 11, D/3-1, was sent by helicopter on a Combat Assault (CA) into the mountain region South of FB 4-11. As we moved out our company found and destroyed a VC base camp with 10 sleeping positions. The camp contained 2 Chicom hand grenades, pistol, poncho, backpack and 3 helmets. Later that day we were ambushed by the North Vietnamese Army (NVA). A firefight ensued for quite some time and I, along with PFC William Tedrow, PFC Robert Campbell, PFC Ken Teunissen, PFC Michael Radford and PFC Del Klemme were WIA. I received my Combat Infantry Badge and Purple Heart on that day. This was my first time being ambushed, and I cannot describe the fear that comes over you when you hear the sound of gunfire and hand grenades exploding all around you. The Medics were unable to remove all of the fragmentation from my left arm. We were evacuated to FB4-11. We returned to the field the next day. I still have a portion of the shrapnel in my arm. ********** On Feb 12, D/3-1, found a VC/NVA base camp with 12 shelters with bunkers under each. Shelters had piped in water and gun racks. Shelters were 12’x20’ with 500 lbs. of potatoes, some fish and salt, 15 Chicom hand grenades, 2 rocket propelled grenades (RPG) 3 unknown type explosives, 60 AK-47 rounds, 2 magazines, NVA gas masks, 4 NVA helmets, 20 NVA uniforms, documents and bag of medical supplies. Camp/grenades/ammunition were destroyed and other items sent to FB 4-11. ********** On Feb 18, D/3-1, detained a Vietnamese (VN) male with no ID. He was evacuated to FB 4-11. ********** On Feb 19, D/3-1, heard RPG rounds coming over our NDP. They landed outside our perimeter, no casualties. ********** On Feb 20, I was walking point in the mountains in the Da Son Valley along the Suoi Lam river when I surprised a Viet Cong (VC) sniper in a shelter. The VC fled. I captured his model 1944 Russian rifle with bayonet along with 130 rounds of ammunition. Bill Tedrow also captured a rifle. We destroyed the shelter. I was allowed to bring this rifle home as a souvenir. ********** On Feb 21, D/3-1, received heavy SAF from about 6 VC/NVA. We returned fire with unknown results. D/3-1 had one WIA. ********** On Mar 7, D/3-1, came into contact with an NVA platoon killing 7 NVA and capturing 3 weapons. A US soldier was WIA. ********** On Mar 13, D/3-1, CA'd into a hot Landing Zone (LZ). While on a search and destroy mission in Quang Ngai Province we engaged with an NVA killing him and capturing documents. PFC Tom Morrison was WIA. Later that day we engaged with 2 VC, killing both VC and capturing an AK-47 and a SKS rifle. ********** On Mar 14, D/3-1, engaged an NVA with SAF. He was killed, and we captured an AK-47, a backpack and documents. I captured the backpack which contained an NVA flag. I was allowed to bring the flag home as a souvenir. Sgt Jose Colon was WIA. Later that day we found a small hospital and 2 structures which showed use in the last 24 hours. We also found medicine including Nuoc Catilom Thanh Huygt, morphine, blue glucose and Vitamin B-1. A Hoi Chanh then led us to a weapons cache resulting in the capture of 2 M-1 rifles and 2 carbines. Later that day we found another small hospital with 10 structures with 11 beds, 30 white uniforms, 3 backpacks, 4-5 blankets and 4-5 blue uniforms. Structures were destroyed and other items sent to FB 4-11. ********** On Mar 15, D/3-1, found a map of Tam Quan with markings on it. Also found a backpack containing medical supplies and documents which were evacuated to LZ Bronco. ********* On Mar 18, D/3-1, CPL Garland Benoit (20) was KIA, and PFC Darrell Hespe was WIA by SAF when they were ambushed while retrieving claymores. Later that day we found an AK-47 with blood stains on it. Later that same day we found an education center 15’x30’, a mess hall and several classrooms. Also found documents and several bleachers in the area. We destroyed all except documents which were evacuated to LZ Liz then to LZ Bronco. ********** On Mar 19, D/3-1, received SAF and Chicom hand grenades from VC/NVA. We engaged with artillery and SAF/AWF. SP4 Leo Supuldki and PFC Brad McLain were WIA. ********** On Mar 25, D/3-1, detonated a booby trap with trip wire. PFC Richard Anderson, PFC Rayfus Ford, PFC Terry, PFC Mike Malek and PFC Charles Thomason were WIA. ********** On Mar 26, D/3-1, destroyed 3 homemade explosives and trip wires. No casualties. ********** On Mar 31, D/3-1, SP4 Harry Baker (20) was KIA by a booby trap while searching bunkers along the Tra Khuk river in Quang Ngai Province. SP4 James Mills was WIA. I was several yards behind Harry when the explosion occurred. His head was nearly decapitated, and legs and arms were blown apart. The medic who attended to Harry was new. The next day the medic returned to the rear and never returned to the bush. I helped load Harry onto an evacuation helicopter. Harry was my hooch partner and one of my best friends. This incident was very traumatic and still haunts me like it happened yesterday. Many years later, when I was in Washington DC, I got a rubbing of his and Stephen Yontz' name that was on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall ********** On Apr 1, D/3-1, PFC Bruce Armstrong (21) stepped on a 105 mm mortar round booby trap that blew off both of his arms and legs. On Apr 12, on his way back to the States, he died from his wounds. We were returning to FB 4-11. ********** On Apr 2 - 4 D/ 3-1 went on Standownn in Duc Pho.***********On Apr 14, D/3-1 engaged with a Vietnamese (VN) female carrying and unknown type of explosive mine. VN was killed. ********** On Apr 23, D/3-1, found 10 graves containing 10 NVA. Cause of death was burns and fragmentation. ********** On Apr 30 D/3-1, engaged a VC with SAF crossing the river killing him. ********** On May 1, D/3-1, FB 4-11 received 3 rounds of unknown motors. No one was wounded. ********** On May 4, D/3-1, detained 2 VN women with no ID. Extracted to Tu My village. ********** On May 7-8, D/3-1, FB 4-11 was attacked by sappers. Near midnight, three VC sappers had advanced through the perimeter wire when a fourth sapper, with a rocket propelled grenade (RPG) launcher slung over his shoulder, touched off a trip flare. The bunker line opened up with M79 grenade launcher (M79), SAF/AWF. Hand grenade and claymore mine shrapnel showered the area. Constant illumination, intermingled with mortar fire from the 81mm and 4.2 mortar sections, encircled the perimeter as we halted the intruders. During this attack we killed 10 VC and detained 2 POW’s. A large number of enemy weapons, including two RPG launchers, two AK-47s, one AK-50, one 9mm pistol, 76 Chicom grenades, 10 RPG rounds, 11 B40 rockets, and one five-pound satchel charge were seized in the aborted attack. ********** On May 10, D/3-1 and D/6-11, while still on FB 4-11, received 12 82 mm mortar rounds. FB 4-11 returned fire with artillery on suspected area of origin. SP4 Don Noakes A/3-1, SP4 Terry Woolums A/3-1, Sgt Malcom Scarborough A/3-1, SP4 Lee Lewis D/3-1, SSG Roy Rudolph Stallsworth D/6-11, SSG Rudolph Ritch D/6-11, and PFC Bruce Litke D/6-11 were WIA. Later that night we engaged with the NVA killing him and capturing an AK-47 and 2 magazines of ammunition. ********** On May 11, D/3-1, at our night defensive position (NDP) in Nghia Hanh, an NVA soldier approached our fox hole and Garry Byerly, Doug Babcock and I opened fire on him, killing him. We captured his AK-47. ********** On May 12, D/3-1 received 3-4 60mm mortar rounds. Engaging the area with artillery. Later that day we received SAF and AWF. D/3-1 and B/123 aviation returned fire with no enemy casualties. D/3-1 had 5 soldiers wounded. Later that day we engaged with NVA killing him and capturing an AK-47. Later on, we received 16 60mm mortar rounds. Returned fire with artillery. PFC Ted Drew (20) KIA, Sp4 John Adams, PFC Tim Miller, PFC Jeff Mouser, PFC Mark Brown and Sgt John Friess were WIA. ********** On May 12, D/3-1, Sgt Stephen Yontz (21), one of my friends and squad leader, along with CPL Brian Orr (20) was KIA by NVA. We, along with A/3-1, were in a day long firefight with the NVA. I helped load Stephen onto an evacuation helicopter. I remember telling him he was going to be ok. ********** On May 13, D/3-1, received 5 60mm mortar rounds and RPG round which landed 5 meters outside perimeter with no casualties. ********** On May 13, a 174th Aviation helicopter going into the A/3-1 location to extract wounded, received SAF. Chopper was shot down. 1 crew member and 1 door gunner were KIA. Chopper was secured but could not be extracted until a later date, D/3-1 helped secure the chopper. ********* On May 13, A/3-1, received mortar rounds, AWF and SAF. PFC David Winder (23), SSGT Rhea Kidd, (24), SSgt William Olson (20), SP4 Richard Humphrey, (20) SP4 Van Wray, (21) and SP4 Ed Delikat, (21) were all KIA during the battle with the NVA. 8 US soldiers were WIA. A/3-1 and D/3-1 were fighting in close proximity during May 11, 12 and 13. PFC David Winder received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his sacrifice and Valor on this day and PFC Bobby McEllwain and SGT Joseph Pristas received a Silver Star for their valor. ********** On May 14 D/3-1, engaged with the VC/NVA killing 1 VC and 4 NVA. ********** On May 21 D/3-1, had a claymore detonated killing a chicken. ********** On May 24 D/3-1, received 5 rounds of incoming mortars with no casualties Did not return fire because we did not know where the incoming was coming from. ********** On May 25, D/3-1, found a shelter 8’x15’ with bunker. It had been used with in the last 24xhours. We destroyed the shelter. ********** On May 30, D/3-1, received an incoming mortar which landed 400m outside of the perimeter. No casualties. ********** On May 30, D/3-1, received SAF while approaching the river. While crossing the river we received AWF. Engaged with artillery from D/6-11. We continued to receive AWF for several minutes. No US casualties. **********On May 31, D/3-1, heard an explosion 150 meters away and received SAF from the N. We engaged with M79 and AWF. Unknown results. Later that day we checked a possible mortar tube site. Found 10-15 Vietnamese civilians in the area. Civilians say that VC came into the area to hide in bunkers. ********** On Jun 1, D/3-1, received 2 105mm incoming mortars. Mortars landed inside NDP perimeter but were both duds. We engaged with artillery with unknown results. **********On Jun 1, D/3-1, found a booby trap with a pressure type device which we destroyed in place. ********** On Jun 1, D/3-1, while securing NDP, detected movement 50 meters outside the perimeter and received 4 Chicom hand grenades. Engaged with M79. Checked area with negative findings. ********** On Jun 2, D/3-1, heard movement outside NDP perimeter. Engaged with hand grenades with negative results. ********** On Jun 4, D/3-1, detained 3 VN males with no ID. Extracted them to Son Tinh. Later that day we observed 5 VC evading. We followed and engaged with SAF. We wounded 1 VC who was extracted to LZ Bronco. Later that day we detained 3 VN males and 1 VN female with no IDS. Extracted to Son Tinh. Later that day we engaged with 1 VC male. We wounded that VC and extracted him to LZ Bronco along with documents found in backpack. ********** On Jun 6, D/3-1, detained 1 VN female with no ID. Extracted to LZ Bronco. Later that day we found 5,000lbs of rice in huts hidden under floors. Extracted rice to Son Tinh. ********** Jun 7, D/3-1, received 3 rounds of sniper fire from 600-800 meters NW. We had no casualties. Later we received 10 to 15 rounds of sniper fire from NW 150 to 200 meters. We had no casualties. Later we received 20-30 rounds of sniper fire from SE 150-200 meters away. Engaged fire with SAF and artillery with unknown results. Over the next several hours we continued to receive SAF. By the end of the day, we found and destroyed 18 bunkers and detained 2 VC, 16 to 17 years old. VC extracted them to LZ Bronco. SGT Gary Clements and Christopher Btant were WIA. ********** On Jun 8, D/3-1, at the Village of Duyen Phuoc #3, received 2 unknown types of rounds resulting in 1 large and 1small explosion. No casualties. Later we received 30 rounds of sniper fire from NW, 300-400m. We engaged with SAF killing 1 VC. ********** On Jun 9, D/3-1, engaged with 2 VC in black PJs with green uniforms underneath. We killed 1 VC and wounded 1 VC who had a pressure type firing device on him. Wounded VC extracted to Chu Lai. Later on that day, while on search and destroy mission, we detained 1 VN female with no ID. She was extracted to LZ Bronco. ********** On Jun 10, D/3-1, engaged 2 VC with SAF wounding both enemy soldiers. VC extracted to LZ Bronco. Later that day we received SAF from 3 VC. We killed 1 VC, captured 1 VC and the other one evaded us. Captured VC was extracted to LZ Bronco. ********** On Jun 11, D/3-1, we engaged 1 VC with SAF with negative results. ********** On Jun 19, the entire 3/1 Battalion became attached to the 196th Brigade, by OPCON, to assist in “Operation Fredrick Hill” where the heaviest enemy contact had been made in recent weeks. The 3/1 Battalion CA’d out of Tam Ky and landed in Tien Phuoc. ********** On Jun 26, D/3-1, received SAF at NDP with no casualties. ********** On Jun 27, D/3-1, captured an ANPRC 25 Battery, 2 pistol belts and 1 M-60 machinegun. ********** On Jun 28, D/3-1, engaged with NVA killing 1 and capturing a 9mm pistol. ********** On Jul 2, D/3-1, was airlifted out of “Operation Fredrick Hill” area. After takeoff, Captain Harry Sheppard had a head count taken and we discovered PFC Fred Boyd was left behind. I was Captain Sheppard’s radio telephone operator (RTO). He ordered the chopper back to pick up Fred. I assisted Fred on to the chopper. Fred was in terrible shape and could hardly walk. We received SAF/AWF going in and out of the LZ as we retrieved Fred. This was one of the more terrifying incidents since we were not protected by other airships. Fred and I joined D/3-1 on the same day in January. Fred was sent to Duc Pho and never returned to the bush. ********** On Jul 5 - 7, D/3-1 went on Standdown in Duc Pho. ********** On Jul 8 D/3-1, found a 60mm mortar round booby trap. We destroyed it in place. ********** On Jul 9, D/3-1, received SAF from about 400m W of our location. We engaged with SAF, AWF and artillery resulting in the killing of 1 VC. Later that day a mechanical ambush detonated. We found a blood trail, pieces of torso, and clothing/Ho Chi Minh sandals, eventually leading to discovery of 1 VC KIA. About an hour later that day another mechanical ambush detonated killing 3 VC. ********** On Jul10, D/3-1, detained 1 VN man approximately 17 with no ID. Extracted him to LZ Bronco. ********** On Jul 11, D/3-1, found and destroyed 1 81mm mortar round. ********** On Jul 12, D/3-1, while picking up mechanical ambush from NDP we found fresh footprints with a mechanical ambush device missing. Mechanical ambush contained a claymore, a PRC-25 battery and an electrical firing device. At another location a mechanical ambush was missing battery, trip wire and firing device. Claymore was still there. ********** On Jul 12, D/3-1, after moving out of NDP, received 5-10 rounds SAF from 500m W of location. Returned with SAF with unknown results. Later that day we received 30-40 rounds of AWF and engaged 4 VC/NVA with SAF and artillery with negative results. ********** On Jul 13, D/3-1, ambushed 3 VC/NVA with negative results. ********** On Jul 15 D/3- 1, engaged VC with SAF, found blood trail but no VC. ********** On July 16, D/3-1, A US soldier detonated a booby trap resulting in 2 WIA. Later that day another booby trap was detonated resulting in 3 WIA. WIA evacuated to Chu Lai. ********** On Jul 17, D/3-1, while on search and destroy mission received 30-40 rounds of AWF from 400m N of location. Returned with SAF, AWF and artillery with negative results Later that day while crossing river, found a 122mm rocket which was destroyed in place. We then received 15-20 rounds of SAF. Returned with SAF and AWF with negative results. Artillery was not called in due to a village in the approximate location. ********** On Jul 19, D/3-1, received 40-50 rounds of AK-47 AWF. Returned with SAF and AWF with negative results. Later 2 US soldiers attempting to destroy a dud 2.75 rocket detonated a booby trap, Sgt Ron Horton and another soldier were WIA and evacuated to Chu Lai. ********** On Jul 30, D/3-1, PFC David Allen (19) and SP4 William McPherson (22) were KIA when they accidentally detonated their mechanical ambush. SGT Arvin Zwart, PFC Frank Bueno and SP4 Del Kalemme were WIA and evacuated to Chu Lai. ********** On Jul 30, while on search and destroy mission in the Da Son Valley, D/3-1 received 50-60 SAF rounds from 3-4 VC snipers shooting from the surrounding hills along the Suoi Lam River. We could see the bullets bouncing all around us and whizzing over our heads As Captain Harry Sheppard and I were crawling towards each other he was WIA. He was shot in the leg. After getting Captain Sheppard dusted off, I called in an artillery strike to the approximate sniper fire location with unknown results. I still have the Vietnam area map that I used to relay the coordinates to D/6-/11 on FB 4-11. PFC Tim Miller was also WIA. I think Captain Sheppard received a Silver Star for either this incident or the incident when we retrieved Fred Boyd. I believe all of the brave soldiers involved on these 2 occasions should have received the Silver Star. ********** On Aug 3, D/3-1 engaged a sampan with SAF and AWF resulting with 6 VC killed. ********** On Aug 4, D3/1, a US soldier was WIA when he detonated a booby trap. Booby trap was a mackerel can with release device sitting in the middle of the trail. ********** On August 5, D/3-1, VN women brought in a 16-year-old female with multiple frag wounds from a booby trap. Wounded VN sent through proper VN channels. ********** On Aug 10, D/3-1, detained a VN male who says he is from Tu My Village. He had an M-16 with 2 US hand grenades and no ID. Confiscated M-16 and grenades and evacuated VN to FB 4-11. ********** On Aug 12, D/3-1, received 35-40 rounds SAF and 7-8 M-79 rounds. Engaged with SAF and 81 mm artillery with unknown results. ********** On Aug 13, D/3-1, found 3 82mm RPG rounds. NVA 21st Regiment is the only unit known to use. Destroyed them in place. Later that day we engaged with 81mm and 105 artillery 8 VC with backpacks with unknown results. ********** On Aug 14, D/3-1, engaged with 1 VC killing him. D/3-1, sniper engaged 2 VC at with negative results. ********** On Aug 16, D/3-1, found a rallying point which included a podium and bench. Area around podium will accommodate approximately 30 people. Placed 2 mechanical ambushes in the area. ********** On Aug 16, D/3-1, Sniper engaged 3 VC in a sampan killing 1 VC. Later D/3-1 found the mechanical ambush that was missing from the day before. Later that day D/3-1 Sniper engaged 1 VC/NVA who fell into tall grass WIA. ********** On Aug 18, D/3-1, conducted a stay behind ambush in NDP. Engaged 2 VC killing them and captured 2 AK-47,1 claymore bag with 2 loaded AK-47 magazines. ********** On Aug 21, D/3-1, stopped 2 NV trying to evade. Neither had ID. Kit Carson Scout (KCS) said 1 was not VC who was released. Detained 1 VN male and evacuated to LZ Bronco. ********** On Aug 22, I went on a 5-day R&R and flew to Hawaii to meet up with Sandy and Jeff. We had a great 5 days in Honolulu. ********** On Aug 25, D/3-1, engaged 3 VC with backpacks with weapons with negative results. Later we observed 17 VN in river, uniforms on bank, US sniper fired 3 shots, VC evaded. ********** On Aug 26, D/3-1, detained 1 VN male with no ID in vicinity of hut which contained a NVA pistol belt, 2 ammo pouch, 41 AK-47rounds. Evacuated VN to LZ Bronco and military equipment to FB 4-11. ********** On Aug 28, D/3-1, observed group of VN women carrying unknown objects and a VN male 100 meters away in the wood line, sniper fired 2 rounds and male evaded. Engaged with AWF resulting in 1 VC male WIA (age 12), with no ID and military equipment. Evacuated to Quang Ngai. D/3-1, Requested Mine Dog. ********** On Aug 29, D/3-1, detained a VN male with unknown ID. Evacuated to LZ Bronco. ********** On Aug 30, D/3-1, detained a VN female with no ID. Possible Woman Associate Chief. Evacuated to Bronco. ********* On Sept 1, D/3-1, On mine sweep, engaged 2 NVA, 50 meters from location resulting in killing 2 NVA. Later we engaged with 2 VC resulting in 1 VC killed and 1 VC captured. Evacuated to LZ Bronco. Later, D/3-1, detained 1 VN male without valid ID. He admitted to being VC. We later engaged 2 VC at 50 meters, killing 1 VC and capturing 1 VC and 1 AK-47. The detainee was evacuated to LZ Bronco. After an airstrike D/3-1 was CA’d into a hot LZ. The 174th reported that D/3-1 were receiving enemy 51 caliber fire and that their chopper went down. C/3-1 had SP5 Herchel Sacey WIA. Bruce Wright was reported as missing in action but later found and reported as KIA. ********** On Sept 2, at Nghia Hanh, E Troop 1/1 Cavalry, D/3-1, & Popular Force (PF) #118, received 50 RPG rounds and SAF from 50 meters NW. E Troop had 1 KIA and 7 WIA. D/3-1 had: PFC Robert Weidle (19), and PFC William Walker (21) KIA. Popular Force 118 had 4 WIA. 2 Sheridan tanks were hit and were inoperable with heavy damage to the M551, an armored personnel carrier ( APC) was hit and inoperable with moderate damage to the M113A1. The casualties from E Troop were: SP4 Gary Stomberg, SP4 John Kueton, SP4 David Schafrank, SP4 John Clark, SGT Neal Stewart, PFC Gary Young, PFC Raymond Gillman and PFC Russel Ernest. Later D/3-1 received 6 60mm mortar rounds resulting in PFC Arthur Suliz, and SP4 Donald Linzey Jr.,WIA . Lt. Emil Naasz was WIA on Sept 2 but listed as KIA on Sept 5. WIA were evacuated to Chu Lai. ********* On Sept 3, D/3-1, found a bundle of black Pajamas, a lighter, and a Chicom hand grenade which was destroyed in place. Evacuated black pajamas and lighter to FB4-11. Later D/3-1 while sweeping to the W, received heavy AWF from a 50 caliber, SAF and artillery incoming. D/3-1 engaged and captured an AK-47 and several empty RPG carrying cases. At the same time, Battalion command network had been jammed with Vietnamese voices, and command changed the transmit frequency. Later that day C/3-1 received heavy SAF and RPG fire. One platoon of C/3-1 was completely pinned down. D/3-1 moved to engage; E Troop 1/1st cavalry engaged with flanking fire in front of C/3-1. Artillery was called in. Results were SSG James Lee, PFC Dale Wilson, PFC Charles Callahan, PFC Larry Thomas, PFC Steven Lucky and SFC William Bramlett D/3-1 WIA, PVT Lauzrn Spike, PFC Clarence Mitchell, Larry Brown, Mark Srabas, PFC Robert Cruz, PFC William Jefferson, PFC Gregory Miller and SP4 Richard Kettles C/3-1 WIA. ********** On Sept 4, D/3-1, continuing its search found one NVA killed by the gunships. We also found one NVA belt and helmet along with nine RPG rounds. We also found an AK-47 rifle and two full magazines and a grave with a body killed by 50 caliber fire. ********** On Sept 5, I was promoted to Specialist Fourth Class. ********** On Sept 7, I was selected to be RTO for Col Culbertson, our Battalion Leader. This was quite an honor. I was his RTO for a week and as a reward I was granted a 3 day in country R&R at China Beach in Da Nang. While I was at China Beach I was interviewed by a Los Angeles area TV station. I turned 21 while I was on this R&R. The clip of the interview was sent home to Sandy. ********** On Sept 15, D/3-1 received 30-40rounds of AK-47 SAF from 500 meters NE of their location along with 3 M79 rounds WIA 1 soldier. ********** On Sept 17, D/3-1, on search and clear mission found an NVA pistol belt, 2 empty M-16 magazines in a hut and 500lbs unpolished rice buried in 2 55 gal drums approximately 25meters from the hut. Rice was in good condition locally grown, 1 ½ month old. Destroyed the hit and evacuated rice to FB 4-11. ********** On Sept 18, D/3-1, on Search and Clear mission, detonated an unknown type bobby trap, believed to be command detonated. Resulting in PFC Douglas Zollinger, PFC John Barber, PFC Leonard Durham, and PFC James Hegsley WIA. Dustoff completed to Chu Lai. ********** On Sept 19, D/3-1, engaged 5 NVA approximately 50 meters E of our location. 3 NVA evaded to the E, an NVA was killed and the other NVA captured along with medical supplies, hammock, 2 bags rice, and a mosquito net. NVA and equipment evacuated to FB 4-11. ********** On Sept 20, D/3-1, while on patrol made contact with the enemy killing an NVA and capturing an NVA. The KCS with the platoon found out from the POW that he was one of three that escaped the day before. Later that day the rest of the company detained four VN in the area. A sniper team from the Battalion accounted for two VC being killed that evening. **********On Sep 26 - 28 D/3-1 went on Standown in Duc Pho. ********** On Oct 4, D/3-1, captured one military aged VN male without any papers or weapon. We also found a bunker and captured one female and one child who were wounded. They were evacuated to FB 4-11. ********** On Oct 5, D/3-1, found a NVA shirt and various food supplies. That night we received 10 rounds of SAF, we engaged the area with SAF and artillery with no casualties on either side. Later three soldiers were evacuated who were having trouble breathing.********** On Oct 7, D/3-1, observed 8 VC/NVA with packs without weapons. They were moving S at distance of 600m to SE. Engaged with artillery with unknown results. ********** On Oct 9, D/3-1 3 VC with binoculars. They were wearing black PJ's about 1100 meters to the NE. We engaged with 81mm mortars with unknown results. ********** On Oct 10, D/3-1, in a stay behind patrol, engaged VC/NVA at 25 meters with claymores, small arms and M-79 rounds which resulted in four VC killed, captured a fragmentation grenade and sandbag full of rice. There were no ID papers on the VC. ********** On Oct 11, a 174th Aviation chopper carrying me and several others made a landing by auto rotation due to engine failure. A US soldier was WIA with broken leg. A second chopper evacuated the crew and WIA to FB4-11. A crew member of the downed helicopter reached into remove the M-60 machinegun and 2-3 rounds accidently discharged hitting the pilot in the lower body. The pilot was KIA on arrival to 91st Medic Evacuation. While waiting for chopper to be retrieved, D/3-1 and the 174th Aviation engaged 5 VC with SAF/AWF killing all 5. ********** On Oct 12, D/3-1, received heavy SAF sniper fire from 100 meters away. 3-5 VC were spotted and we engaged with 81 mm mortars. As we advanced towards the enemy PVT William A. Neu (20) was KIA. Later we found 12-15 huts which had three VN women, one military aged VN male and several babies who were evacuated. Later we found a 55-gallon drum of rice which we destroyed. As we continued our sweep a booby trap can was set off resulting in PFC Larry G. Batcher (21) KIA. SP4 Leonard Nicholas and PFC William Walker were WIA. Finally, that day our sniper spotted three VC in the open killing two, while the other one evaded. ********** On Oct 13, as a 174th supply chopper was on the ground at D/3-1, we received 5-6 rounds. No injuries and the aircraft was not hit. ********** On Oct 22, D/3-1, found two trails that contained a booby trap. Devices were destroyed. **********On Oct 27, I finally received a rear job as a RTO at a military compound in the Nghai Hahan District in Quang Ngai Province. I still had many comrades still in the field. ********** On Nov 12, D/3-1 a three-vehicle convoy consisting of a jeep and two 2 ½ ton trucks heading to Quang Ngai had a mine detonate under the last 2 ½ ton truck destroying the vehicle and throwing the personnel 75-80 meters from the site of the explosion. At the time there was a mine sweep team with the convoy. The explosion KIA the following men from D/3-1: MSGT Garland P. Felton (32), SGT Donald W. Chipps Jr. (25), PFC Titus L. Epps (21), PFC Jesse L. Kestler (20), Craig T. Reska (20), CPL William C. Reed (19), SP4 Joe McNett (19), From B/3-1: PFC Ken Burns (21), PFC Dexter Lombas (20) PFC Jose G. Barrera (19), and PFC John D. Barrett (20 ) from HHC. ********** On Nov 13, S/3-1, while blowing up the munitions obtained through the VIP, it got out of hand resulting in three soldiers being wounded and ten VN children hurt. Only one U.S. soldier had to be evacuated from the area . Among these casualties were C Company’s: PFC William Arias Jr. (20) KIA and PVT Carl Lewandowski WIA. Bert Guenther (22) was KIA when an explosive device was dropped. ********** On Nov 20. D/3-1, found and destroyed a 4.2 inch mortar round. ********** On Nov 22, Recon platoon working with the Sharks spotted two VC with weapons resulting in one VC killed. The Recon platoon was inserted and during the insertion the aircraft received 15 hits from SAF. The 174th WIA were CW2 James Kinne, WO1 Fred Thompson and SFC Allen Parker. They were evacuated to Chu Lai. D/3-1 was sent in to reinforce the Recon platoon. We found one VC killed by aircraft wearing black pants and a blue shirt carrying a large supply of medical supplies. Later D/3-1 and Recon platoon found three bunkers, a punji pit and five hooches which were all destroyed. We found numerous trails running east and west and fresh footprints. A booby trap was tripped while in the area. WIA from Recon platoon who were evacuated. SGT Wayne Thomas and PFC Joseph Ocodie. Another booby trap of 82mm mortar or larger was detonated resulting in KIA of PFC Tommy Bowens (21), PFC Mark A. Larson (19), and PFC Brent Hayton (19). ********** On Nov 29, I received orders that I was going back to the United States. I was taken by jeep to FB 4-11 and then airlifted to Duc Pho and then on to Chu Lai. I was then flown on a C130 airplane, that was to be a direct flight, to Cam Rahn Bay. During the flight one of the engines failed and we had to make an emergency landing in Saigon. We changed planes and proceeded on our flight to Cam Rahn Bay. Your mind thinks, I made it out in the bush for 11 months, is this how it will end? On December 1,1970 We boarded our Freedom Bird back to United States. Our flight home took us through Tokyo Japan and then on to the Sea-Tac airport where we landed on December 2,1970. After serving our entire combat time together, Jerry Richardson, Arvin Zwart and I came home together. In addition to the ones mentioned above, these are the other Hero's I served with: Denis (Rocky) Bourcier, Mike Mecetic, Garry Byerly, Doug Babcock, Robert (Doc) Horridge, Carl Lewis, Tommy Hayes, Rich Harpster, Gary Young, Robert Lichtner, Mark Birkner, Bob Butler, Ken Turner, James Ballard, Richard Harrington, Ron Horton, Freeman Harrison, Bobby Thompson, James Bennett, Roy Vance, Mike Sherrill, Ken Teunissen, Richard Simon, Carl Erwin, Frank Bueno, Earl Leigy, John Friess, Jesse Alvolos, and Mike McQueen. **********(D/3-1 Captains) Arrival – April, Capt. Michael Fitz-Gerald *****May – Jul, Capt. Harry Sheppard Served as his RTO*****Aug – Sept, Capt. Robert Lichtnegar Served as his RTO******Oct -- Departure, Capt. William Walsh Served as his RTO***** Being an RTO (Radio Telephone Operator) in Vietnam was considered extremely dangerous during the Vietnam War, often cited as one of the most perilous roles due to the constant exposure to enemy fire while needing to be readily available to communicate vital information, leading to a very high risk of being killed or wounded; essentially, the nature of the job meant they were often in the thick of combat while needing to operate a radio, making them prime targets. ********** I served America honorably while being exposed to Agent Orange while putting my life on the line fighting in Vietnam from Jan 10, 1970 to Dec 2,1970. I Was in the infantry and fought in the rice patties, villages, jungles and mountains of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. I saw and did many things that no one should have to. During our tour, in addition to combat, we had to endure many hardships: carrying all your belongings (food, water, personal items, Bible and ammunition) in a ruck sack, drinking water from rice paddies or rain water or streams, walking miles in the hot sun or pouring rain, wadding through rice paddies rivers, jungles and swamps, being wet, hot or cold for days on end, tying yourself to a tree in the mountains so you wouldn't fall down the mountainside, encountering mosquitos, leaches, deadly snakes, scorpions or other creatures, eating c-rations for weeks at a time, never getting a full night’s sleep. I carried the Bible my mom sent me when I first arrived in Vietnam with a note of God's encouragement, I still have the Bible on my bookcase. I am very proud to have served America. During my two year military duty, I earned the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Air Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Three Bronze Stars and Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device. All of the Vietnam Soldiers returned home by ourselves to a nation that didn't support us. My best friends in Vietnam were Garry Byerly, Doug Babcock and Harry Baker. I saw Garry several times when I travelled through Denver, CO. It was many years before some of my coworkers and friends even knew I served in Vietnam. I pray every day for the families of these brave soldiers and for the many friends that have died, way too young, since returning from Vietnam. The following are my friends that I know have died since coming home. Harry Sheppard 2011, Garry Byerly 2004, Chuck Trimarche 1990, Don Linzey 2008, Fred Boyd 1995, Dale Arnos 2008. ********** After landing in SeaTac I was placed on a 30 day leave and I made arrangements to go home to Lomita CA. I was unable to reach anyone, so I left a message with my brother Steve. When I arrived at the Los Angeles Airport, I was greeted by a very pretty young women who gave me a big kiss on the cheek. At the time I had no idea who she was. Soon after Steve approached me and introduced me to his new wife Shari. ***** I was then assigned to report to Fort Riley Kansas to finish my last six months of duty. With the help of Sandy’s brother, Doug Heeren, we rented a U Haul truck and moved to Worthington MN. On Jan 4,1971, I reported to Fort Riley KS. At Fort Riley I was assigned to an armored vehicle unit of the First Infantry Division (Big Red One) and drove an Armored Personnel Carrier. In March I was able to find a cheap rental house off base in Junction City KS and Sandy and Jeff moved to be with me. On June 3, I was promoted to Sgt. E5. On July 30,1971 I received an Honorable Discharge from the US Army. My best friend at Ft. Riley was William McQueen. During the next several years I used the GI Bill to further my college education by attending night school. I graduated from California State University at Fullerton on January 4,1977 with a Bachelor of Arts Business Administration Degree. ********** Update: In February 2024, after 54 years, Doug Babcock, Rich Harpster and Rocky made contact with me. We had a great time catching up. ******************* Photos: Dave NVA Flag, Dave Boyer Garry Byerly in Background, Dave FB 4-11, Dave crossing river, Dave & Chuck T, with Russian Rifle, Dave's Medal, Doug Babcock, Garry Byerly, Dave & local kid, Dave by Sheridan Tank, Dave resting, Dave's medals, CA in Horseshoe, Dave on march, Truck convoy, Dave AIT Ft. Ord, FB 4-11, Dave's Basic Training Trophy, Dave in bunker on FB 4-11, Dave on March, Vietnam Area Map, Dave's Army Stuff, Captain Harry, Captain Sheppard and Lt, Naasz