on a hill in Binh Dinh Province,RSVN, there was a battle. My platoon was on Hill 474 and heavily engaged with the NVA 22nd Regiment. They were all over the hill in a cave netwirk. One of our guys was KIA and we were VERY low on ammunition. A Shadow gunship came on station and fired in support of us. First burst came within 10' of our perimeter. A rather unorthodox method of warning off the guns was employed until radio contact was established. The gatlings fired and fired and fired thus anchoring our flank which the NVA was attempting to maneuver on. We survived the night and the fight. The gunner on that Shadow was our own FlyBoyFlem. Today these arrived
Cases fired from the Gatlings on that night. After 41 years, I have had that battle brought back alive and I am holding it in my hand. Woody's guns saved an American Platoon surrounded by an NVA Regiment that nite. I can't express how having these cases in my hand makes me feel. Thanks for saving our asses that night Woody!!!
Oh how very cool is that!!!! Amen to what's been said. Today at 1700 EST, I'll toast you guys with a Talisker single malt and a Carlos Torano "Exodus" in your honor! Cheers brother!
EvilTwin; Thank you so much for sharing this moment from both of your lives with us. We are all indeed richer for it.
When I get home tonight and the nightly chores are done, I'll raise a glass of the finest Kentucky product I have in the cupboard to both of you fine veterans - and to the rest of your comrades as well.
Thanks again, it's an honor to share the 'Fire with both of you gentlemen.
on a hill in Binh Dinh Province,RSVN, there was a battle. My platoon was on Hill 474 and heavily engaged with the NVA 22nd Regiment. They were all over the hill in a cave netwirk. One of our guys was KIA and we were VERY low on ammunition. A Shadow gunship came on station and fired in support of us. First burst came within 10' of our perimeter. A rather unorthodox method of warning off the guns was employed until radio contact was established. The gatlings fired and fired and fired thus anchoring our flank which the NVA was attempting to maneuver on. We survived the night and the fight. The gunner on that Shadow was our own FlyBoyFlem. Today these arrived
Cases fired from the Gatlings on that night. After 41 years, I have had that battle brought back alive and I am holding it in my hand. Woody's guns saved an American Platoon surrounded by an NVA Regiment that nite. I can't express how having these cases in my hand makes me feel. Thanks for saving our asses that night Woody!!!
Glad your still with us and have a Warm Fuzzy to remember with.
There was nothing more exciting than a TIC Mission for us gunners.
I was a Crewmember on Spookies, Shadows and Stingers. My wife told me if I went into the Spectre Program our marriage would be history. So using my head for once I flew my last Mission out of NKP. When the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare, speaks You listen.
Glad you got back safe and sound. Good luck in the future.
Doesn't seem that long ago,does it.......................
Quote......"A rather unorthodox method of warning off the guns was employed"....... betcha there's a dinky dau tale in that line of letters......red tracers up?
This is what really makes this place worth visiting.
EvilTwin, to you and FlyBoyFlem I salute you with a bottle of Lienenkugel's 1888 Bock. Thanks for your service those 41 years ago. I know there was little thanks when you came back, and I'll say right now I'm sorry for the way many of you were greeted when you came home.
This is certainly one of the most interesting posts I've seen here. How did you guys make the connection?
One thing for sure, those that post here in the woe-is-me mode need to think about this topic and the idea of a platoon surrounded by a regiment for a second. Then compare that to our trivial issues of today.
Flem(Woodie) left me a voicemail. I ain't so hot at aircraft recognition (I wuz a Grunt,not a AAA gunner). It was a SPOOKY ship,not a shadow. If you guys want to hear just what that "unorthodox method" was gimme a "show of hands" as it is extremely politically incorrect but for us Grunts it wuz all in the family.
Flem(Woodie) left me a voicemail. I ain't so hot at aircraft recognition (I wuz a Grunt,not a AAA gunner). It was a SPOOKY ship,not a shadow. If you guys want to hear just what that "unorthodox method" was gimme a "show of hands" as it is extremely politically incorrect but for us Grunts it wuz all in the family.
OK,here goes. 474 wasn't a high hill,only 474 meters,but huge in mass. we were on the side facing the South China Sea (25klicks out) and there were 2 long finger ridges with a wide (350m) draw between them. The left hand ridge was lower in height but absolutely lousy with roky caves. We had moved from a combat assault on the summit with my Platoon on the south edge of said finger ridge. We go itno it HARD about halfway down. "Speedy" Gonzales the ag for the M60 got shot in the chest in a bowl in the middle of a bunch of caves. 4 of us, Greg Dodge,Tiny Johnson the Medic, Billy Sims an M79 grenadier and myself went in to get Speedy while Psg Escobar fought it out at 10'range with the gooks to cover us. We got him otu and the REAL fighting began. The NVA GREATLY outnumbered us and were maneuvering on our flank. NOBODY who has experience ever would allow the NVA to maneuver on them. We went low on ammo and called for help. The Spooky showed and began a fire run. The burst was actually within 10' of our perimeter.Tommy"Sunshine" Scanlon yelled out we're [bleep]!!! I yelled at Sims to jump on the rock and shuck and jive. He said I wuz outta my friggin mind. I said Billy, the NVA ain't drafted or enlisted any [bleep] lately so jump up and dance,even a dumbass Zoomie would recognize you!!! Sims yelled back that I wuz right, jumped up and danced and the Pilot pulled off until we could get actaul radio contact with him. It would never make it into any tactical manual but we were who we were. We came through it all together and only lost one man. January 25 1970
Thanks for sharing that personal history ET. Thanks to you and FlyBoyFlem both for your service. I always enjoy listening to war stories from Vets and find them inspirational. My father served in WWII in the Philippines and New Guinea in the 33rd division, U.S. Army. I too will raise a glass to you fine gentlemen this evening.
OK,here goes. 474 wasn't a high hill,only 474 meters,but huge in mass. we were on the side facing the South China Sea (25klicks out) and there were 2 long finger ridges with a wide (350m) draw between them. The left hand ridge was lower in height but absolutely lousy with roky caves. We had moved from a combat assault on the summit with my Platoon on the south edge of said finger ridge. We go itno it HARD about halfway down. "Speedy" Gonzales the ag for the M60 got shot in the chest in a bowl in the middle of a bunch of caves. 4 of us, Greg Dodge,Tiny Johnson the Medic, Billy Sims an M79 grenadier and myself went in to get Speedy while Psg Escobar fought it out at 10'range with the gooks to cover us. We got him otu and the REAL fighting began. The NVA GREATLY outnumbered us and were maneuvering on our flank. NOBODY who has experience ever would allow the NVA to maneuver on them. We went low on ammo and called for help. The Spooky showed and began a fire run. The burst was actually within 10' of our perimeter.Tommy"Sunshine" Scoville yelled out we're [bleep]!!! I yelled at Sims to jump on the rock and shuck and jive. He said I wuz outta my friggin mind. I said Billy, the NVA ain't drafted or enlisted any [bleep] lately so jump up and dance,even a dumbass Zoomie would recognize you!!! Sims yelled back that I wuz right, jumped up and danced and the Pilot pulled off until we could get actaul radio contact with him. It would never make it into any tactical manual but we were who we were. We came through it all together and only lost one man. January 25 1970
Good job my friend.. what the rest of you guys that weren't in the chit need to understand is the "N" word was not at all derogatory in most cases!! and for me some of my black buds were also called that and they in turn affectionately had names for us white dudes ..sound not at all for the times or the bond of brothers black or white!! 41 years seems like a life time but to Jim and me it was yesterday..I'm so very fortunate to have met him here on the "Fire" and above all call him my friend!! ... The "Dumbazz Zoomie"
Just an inspiring thread. A little pep-talk I recall from many years ago (although not 41 >grin<), that went "duty, honor, country", comes to mind. I can think of no better example.
It sure would be neat if you guys would one day meet, and share a meal, or a couple of drinks.
That might be how their steaks are if they aren't nice to me....I know both these scoundrels....Jim will be pizzed but he is a gentleman! I don't want any accolades. I just have the utmost respect these 2 reprobates.
Jim, Woody, et all, that is one hell of a story, and a lifelong connection over a handfull of shells is something else. Thanks for your service. Jim, I've said it before, and my offer still stands, if you get up here, the Mule Deer, and beer, is on me. The door is always open, for you and whatever crew you bring.
How did you guys know to anchor the flank - or that it even was the flank ?
Our targeting was based on my things coming from the RO [Radio Operator]on the ground, puffing smoke,maps,shooting to a said landmark,muzzle flashes or compass heading..I must be perfectly honest much was a Hail Mary and hope you hit the Bad Guys..thank God it didn't happen but I always said a prayer before we opened up and asked GOD to please protect our guys from US..With our tremendous rate of fire we could have killed Jim and all concerned in the blink of an eye..we came very close that night and the hair stands up on my neck when Jim and I talk about it and what could have happened!!
I just want at this point to thank all you guys for your good wishes and comments,you'll never know what it means to me and I know Jim feels the same way.I've been here almost a year now and am very proud to call many of you Friend. Hope to get to know many more of you as time goes on!! At times we have different opinions and say some things we regret later but overall this place is SUPER and the best thing that's come my way in many moons..Thanks
Great story and great to share this site with you guys. I'm going to tip one for you two tonight, also. I missed you guys by just a little bit; I left II Corps in May of '69.
While it's easy to talk light heartedly about your experiences, the gravity of both of your sacrifices is not lost. The task of trying to comprehend a situation like ET described leaves me with chills. I can't express my gratitude enough for what you two, and all our Vets, went through. Thanks for willingly sharing this with us here. I'm glad you made it home. Thanks again.
ET, FlyboyFlem, you guys made my day. Hell, you made my week. I'd raise a glass to toast ya both but I'm working tonight and I don't think my patients would appreciate it...
Flem, I gotta thank you for saving ET's ornery butt that night so's I could be part of his historic buffler hunt last December.
And yes, this might be the coolest thread every here on the 'Fire!
Gentlemen, I find my self in rarified air here. It's an honor to read this thread, and no matter how many time I thank all our vets for their selfless sacrifices, I feel like my efforts will never do justice to the bravery, ingenuity, adaptability, and sheer determination shown by all our fighting men and women. I take great pride in knowing these fine folks, even if only from a distance. I've talked to Woody-just recently, and found that we share a joy for ugly airplanes that wreaked havoc with our foes. There's something sexy about Woody's bird-what with all those mini-guns spewing Lead Death at the NVA troops. My favorite "ugly birds" were the P-47 and the A-10 Warthog, but this is about Woody and E.T. Thanks so much for sharing your gut-wrenching story and it's aftermath with a grateful bunch of guys here at the 'Fire.
Woody, that guy in the photo even looks like ya ! ! ! Knew from the minute we met last November you were a good guy, just didn't know ya was a hero. But anybody that ever put on a uniform in service of the US of A is a hero in my book. Thanks for saving the guys that day/night. Made the way for ET to get to the Campfire, too. Haven't had the pleasure of meeting Jim . . . yet. But I'm hopeful the day comes sooner than later. I do feel like we have some common ground with our affinity for the BPCR guns, other stuff, too. THANK YOU BOTH for posting this insight into a part of your history (and ours) that most of the folks I know who were over there don't or won't talk about.
In January of 1970, I was in my last semester of high school and was still very naive about what was going on in SE Asia. Though I didn't go over there, I was brought up to have nothing but respect for those who were.
At least I now know why we ALL"better be afraid of a ghost".
We came through it all together and only lost one man. January 25 1970
One too many but from me and my family - THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH for your service and sacrifice. We're here as a result of you two and all the other brave soldiers like yourselves.
The gunner on that Shadow was our own FlyBoyFlem. Today these arrived. I can't express how having these cases in my hand makes me feel. Thanks for saving our asses that night Woody!!!
I am glad you made it. I was a door gunner on the first mini gun Huey the 4th Div got. I can still hear the roar. No sound like except for maybe a chain gun on a Warthog. When I can find some Beie 33 I will raise a glass. I have fired a 45/70 Gatling, big fun. D1 1/10 4th Inf 66-67
Great thread.....ET, just imagine if they made those Gatling guns in .45-110
Steve
45-70 is nice, but on the Gunships and other fighters we have Gatlings that spew 20 and 30 MM at 4>6K per minute and have High Explosive Incendiary and Armor piercing Heads. There is nothing prettier than watching a 20mm Vulcan do it's thing.
Lots of NVA truck drivers retired on account of them.
Thanks to all of you guys. The repayment however has been made (for me anyways) in the gracious manner that our little Brothers now get when they come home from War. Figuring out what the connect with Woody was came as a result of him mentioning Phu Cat AB and his assignment and time. He said (as have a few other plane and chopper boys) that a really harsh ground battle viewed from the air is like looking into Hell through the front gate. Pretty accurate description but the missing pieces were the sound and the stench. Those just defy description. You have to understand just how close we actually worked Woody's gunship in ONCE WE HAD RADIO CONTACT. Luke da Gook was really really close. He did that so we couldn't use artillery or rockets on him. We lived in the world of "DANGER CLOSE". Guys like Woody had big balls because the gooks had some impressive superheavy AA machineguns and would pop RPG's at a ship. Cobras had the same risks as they came in even closer on demand. The door to history got opened today by those cases and letting you guys know what an Infantrymans world was like seemed timely Thanks again all yo (now) drunks!!!!
Great post and story. Hats off to you guys. My father who was in the Air Force and loaded bombs on planes always had great respect for those who actually fought. If he was still with us and it was back in his drinking days he would raise a toast to you all. Thanks for giving me a good story on one of the crappier nights ive had in a while.
My tanks also, oops that's thanks Haven't indulged this muuch for somw time but well worth it.I KNOW there are many more of you out there who have been through it and I know who many of you are..my last one of the evening goes out to YOU guys and I THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE !! Have a great evening,God Bless...Woody
perimeter.Tommy"Sunshine" Scanlon yelled out we're [bleep]!!! I yelled at Sims to jump on the rock and shuck and jive. He said I wuz outta my friggin mind. I said Billy, the NVA ain't drafted or enlisted any [bleep] lately so jump up and dance,even a dumbass Zoomie would recognize you!!! Sims yelled back that I wuz right, jumped up and danced and the Pilot pulled off until we could get actaul radio contact with him. It would never make it into any tactical manual but we were who we were. We came through it all together and only lost one man. January 25 1970
First, incredible. Second, I'm very humbled. Third, classic 'you can't make this kind of shyt up' tale. Fourth, reminds me of a clearly bigoted, and in very poor taste, joke I heard as a kid: 'Do you know why more blacks were killed in Vietnam that Latinos, whites or other races? Because when a firefight kicked off, the leader of the unit would often scream, "GET DOWN!" While everyone else dove for cover, the brothers would jump up and start to boogie down and dance..."
Stream of consciousness. Apologies for sharing.
Agree with others that this thread is right up there with the very best. Thanks for sharing, Jim and FBF. All Americans stand a little taller simply by virtue of being able to call you, and all others that have served our nation, our countrymen.
[quote=EvilTwin] We came through it all together and only lost one man. January 25 1970
We've all hoisted a few in recognition tonite but......... EvilTwin, if i may.........
OSCAR CRUZ GONZALES � CPL - E4 - Army - Selective Service
101st Airborne Division
Length of service 0 years His tour began on Nov 11, 1969 Casualty was on Jan 25, 1970 In QUANG NGAI, SOUTH VIETNAM HOSTILE, GROUND CASUALTY GUN, SMALL ARMS FIRE Body was recovered � Panel 14W - Line 65
Rest In Peace,our brother
"He which hath no stomach, to this fight, let him depart. But we in it, shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.� Rest in peace brave soldier, you have not been forgotten. (W.Shakespeare)
[quote=EvilTwin] We came through it all together and only lost one man. January 25 1970
We've all hoisted a few in recognition tonite but......... EvilTwin, if i may.........
OSCAR CRUZ GONZALES � CPL - E4 - Army - Selective Service
101st Airborne Division
Length of service 0 years His tour began on Nov 11, 1969 Casualty was on Jan 25, 1970 In QUANG NGAI, SOUTH VIETNAM HOSTILE, GROUND CASUALTY GUN, SMALL ARMS FIRE Body was recovered � Panel 14W - Line 65
Rest In Peace,our brother
"He which hath no stomach, to this fight, let him depart. But we in it, shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.� Rest in peace brave soldier, you have not been forgotten. (W.Shakespeare)
May God Bless you, for your Sacrifice.
NEVER would this be out of place!!!! Damn,if we were not in Binh Dinh Province, OUR "Speedy" Gonzales was KIA on 474 that same day in 1970. My Division too! Oscar Gonzales, you are in fine Company. Be at Peace Brother.
[quote=EvilTwin] We came through it all together and only lost one man. January 25 1970
We've all hoisted a few in recognition tonite but......... EvilTwin, if i may.........
OSCAR CRUZ GONZALES � CPL - E4 - Army - Selective Service
101st Airborne Division
Length of service 0 years His tour began on Nov 11, 1969 Casualty was on Jan 25, 1970 In QUANG NGAI, SOUTH VIETNAM HOSTILE, GROUND CASUALTY GUN, SMALL ARMS FIRE Body was recovered � Panel 14W - Line 65
Rest In Peace,our brother
"He which hath no stomach, to this fight, let him depart. But we in it, shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.� Rest in peace brave soldier, you have not been forgotten. (W.Shakespeare)
May God Bless you, for your Sacrifice.
NEVER would this be out of place!!!! Damn,if we were not in Binh Dinh Province, OUR "Speedy" Gonzales was KIA on 474 that same day in 1970. My Division too! Oscar Gonzales, you are in fine Company. Be at Peace Brother.
EvilTwin.....did i incorrectly post the wrong Gonzales?
Threads like this are why I like this site. Thank you guys for your service and welcome home (better late than never). I will raise a glass of Crown Royal to you after work tonight.
I am just finding this thread Saturday morning. Wow. First thank you so much for your sacrifice and service. Secondly thank you so much for sharing this awesome story. Things like this are what make the campfire great!
EvilTwin.....this is YOUR Gonzales.....maybe you only knew him as "Speedy"..... from the Vietnam War Memorial website.
Oscar Cruz Gonzales was born October 31, 1948 and his home of record was Elsa, Texas. He had attended Edcouch-Elsa High School. In Vietnam, he served with the 3rd Battalion, 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Divsion (Screaming Eagles). He was killed in the Battle of Hill 474 on January 25, 1970. He had been in Vietnam two months and was 21 years old at the time of his death. He was survived by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Jorge G. Gonzalez his sisters: Olga, Felcipas, Olivia, Rita and Elizabeth and brothers: Jorge, Luis, Benigno and Victor. A funeral mass was said at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Elsa and he was buried in Highland Memorial Park in Weslaco, Texas. God rest your soul, Currahee. If any of his family and friends come to this site, please contact me. Thank You.
EvilTwin.....this is YOUR Gonzales.....maybe you only knew him as "Speedy"..... from the Vietnam War Memorial website.
Oscar Cruz Gonzales was born October 31, 1948 and his home of record was Elsa, Texas. He had attended Edcouch-Elsa High School. In Vietnam, he served with the 3rd Battalion, 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Divsion (Screaming Eagles). He was killed in the Battle of Hill 474 on January 25, 1970. He had been in Vietnam two months and was 21 years old at the time of his death. He was survived by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Jorge G. Gonzalez his sisters: Olga, Felcipas, Olivia, Rita and Elizabeth and brothers: Jorge, Luis, Benigno and Victor. A funeral mass was said at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Elsa and he was buried in Highland Memorial Park in Weslaco, Texas. God rest your soul, Currahee. If any of his family and friends come to this site, please contact me. Thank You.
Yeah, it is Speedy. But we were in Binh Dinh Province not Quang Nai and THAT is what threw me.
on a hill in Binh Dinh Province,RSVN, there was a battle. My platoon was on Hill 474 and heavily engaged with the NVA 22nd Regiment. They were all over the hill in a cave netwirk. One of our guys was KIA and we were VERY low on ammunition. A Shadow gunship came on station and fired in support of us. First burst came within 10' of our perimeter. A rather unorthodox method of warning off the guns was employed until radio contact was established. The gatlings fired and fired and fired thus anchoring our flank which the NVA was attempting to maneuver on. We survived the night and the fight. The gunner on that Shadow was our own FlyBoyFlem. Today these arrived
Cases fired from the Gatlings on that night. After 41 years, I have had that battle brought back alive and I am holding it in my hand. Woody's guns saved an American Platoon surrounded by an NVA Regiment that nite. I can't express how having these cases in my hand makes me feel. Thanks for saving our asses that night Woody!!!
Agreed, one of the best post ever. Thank you for all you have done Sir
This thread continues to be incredibly inspiring, I hope it keeps going for a while and maybe illicit some more combat stories from our members.
I will point out one thing that whilst not surprising, it is still telling nevertheless; The absence of comments from the usual suspects that fail to realize it was (and is) men like these that meake them free. jorge
It definately is inspiring ... even to we Canadians who also benefit from the sacrifice of men like ET, FBF and 'SPEEDY' as well as all you vets here on the 'fire. Thank you all for your service.
My experience at that time in history was much different as I was going to university in Alberta listening to draft-dodging liberal American profs spouting their vitriol against the US poisoning a generation of our youth by their ranting and railing. It was disgusting. Glad I was old enough to not be sucked in by their brainwashing.
It definately is inspiring ... even to we Canadians who also benefit from the sacrifice of men like ET, FBF and 'SPEEDY' as well as all you vets here on the 'fire. Thank you all for your service.
My experience at that time in history was much different as I was going to university in Alberta listening to draft-dodging liberal American profs spouting their vitriol against the US poisoning a generation of our youth by their ranting and railing. It was disgusting. Glad I was old enough to not be sucked in by their brainwashing.
Hell, sounds like BCBrian now... not much has changed, I guess.
ET and FBF, great story of valor, tragedy and humor. Much thanks to you both for your service to your country. I was in college at the time with 1-A draft status and draft number 283. If called I would have went. Those were turbulent times in the country for sure.
If you don't mind my asking, what is the head stamp on the 7.62? If TW, it was made at the Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant. I know they made a lot of ammo for the Vietnam War.
Thanks to ET and Flem, that's very cool that you were able to connect here.
Glad no fratricide happened that day.
Back in March 2003 I was with 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade in An Nasiriyah, Iraq. Bad comm, units not reporting accurate positions, confusion and fog of war. A-10s ended up rolling in on our amtracs, and making runs with 30mm gatling guns. Ugly, and tragic loss of good Marines.
On the flipside, an AC-130 worked it's magic on a nighttime counterattack by the Iraqi's. What a rain of destruction.
Somehow just thanking you for your service seems inadequate for me. I served during that period, but was never assigned to RSVN. I never had to feel what you experienced, and I am grateful for that, but I will never forget what you did there and those that made the ultimate sacrifice.
This from old sailor who never saw Vietnam but did serve during that era. My hats off to all of you who did go over there and serve, for that reason I'll never wear any Vietnam Era paraphernalia out of respect for those who did serve in country or in that theater of operation.
God speed to all those who served there. Those who made it home alive, Those that did not make it home alive and Those that are still over there Missing in Action. I salute you all.
I have done one more thing. Thanks to Chapped Lip I went to a Vietnam Memorial Website and found his name and posted a message. That I served in Co.C 3/506th Infantry with Speedy and was one of the Men who carried him out when he was shot and that we guarded his body all night. He was a good dude and as Brave as a Man should be and that I was honored to be able to make the post for him for all to see. Currahee Brother!
I have done one more thing. Thanks to Chapped Lip I went to a Vietnam Memorial Website and found his name and posted a message. That I served in Co.C 3/506th Infantry with Speedy and was one of the Men who carried him out when he was shot and that we guarded his body all night. He was a good dude and as Brave as a Man should be and that I was honored to be able to make the post for him for all to see. Currahee Brother!
Jim, I know this is a personal thing for you but I would love to know (I'm sure others would too)if any of Speedy's family contacts you. I'm not asking for details, just to know if contact is made. Of course this is completely up to you.
Some day I am going to visit the wall. 34% of the guys I graduated high school with have their names on that wall.
Scott,
Man, that is sad. 34% is a lot.
Glad that you and Woody made it though.
John
Not so much if you were from a small town. During that period and i am of that age i lived in prescott arizona. At the time maybe 3500people. In 65, the drums of war were beating, and we had been raised on john wayne. That summer was truely american graffitti. And then the notices started coming and off to someplace nobody had ever heard of. And about a year later the boxes started coming home. I did eventually go to the wall, and i don't think i have it in me to do it again, it is very hard. Today there is a statue on the square in prescott to those fallen in vietnam, with all the names. They are not names to me, as i knew most of them. Before a fence was built around it, kids would climb all over it, which aggravated me to distraction. Until i remembered as a child climbing all over another statue on the plaza of bucky O'Neil, that one for the charge up san juan hill in another foreign engagement. Kids are kids. I have asked young people in their 20's if they knew where vietnam was, and did just recently. Most of have heard the name, but can't really describe it. Maybe this is good, probably it is not. We are I think doomed to repeat history because of this. But I do remember the drag races in 65 at the edge of town, I remember the dairy queen where we would gather, and the hill behind it where people went to "get a little" and I remember well the names on that monument where they will remain forever young. as i read this thread, i see in my mind my cousin, one of the names on that statue, who died there in vietnam, drowned while loaded down with ammo in the delta area when a swift boat captzized. And the marker in the v.a. cemetary in prescott.
Yeah... small towns are where those scars are the deepest.
My mother lives in the house that her older sister's then-fiance' was born and raised in. He went, and never came back. Those stories are far too prevalent in little towns.
Of course, that's always been the case. Try going to Bedford, Virginia, and finding a WWII vet that was born and raise there. you can't, because they lost almost all of them on D-Day.
I can take you places in Virginia that USED to be towns, and are now just long-forgotten graveyards, as those boys didn't come marching home from The Wilderness, Gettysburg, Manassas...
I guess it's easy to forget if you live in a huge city, with huge numbers of nameless faces. But, when you in, and from, a small town, there are no faces without names... and when those faces vanish, you know them and you know their families.
The sadness for guys like ScottF and RoninPhx is harsh. All of you thank your Lucky Stars that you weren't there to SEE it happen. You really,really DO NOT want to see what the response from a Man's comrades is. It is ugly beyond words. Response to a request,yes,if any of Speedy's family or friends responds I will post it here. I am actually shaking over that because after 41 years a man who was there with their son/brother/cousin/best friend has come forward. I Pray I have caused no great pain. I hope they get some solace that Speedy was not alone and we stood by him to the end. I hope you guys say a little prayer for them.Their relative /friend died. A War Brother to me,a Son or brother or best friend for them. Say a little prayer.
Some pretty humbling posts on this thread. Growing up in Canada during that time I was pretty insulated from the reality of SE Asia.My heartfelt thanks to those that served, and are serving to protect all of us. Something in my eyes, must be hay fever!
Quote......". I hope they get some solace that Speedy was not alone and we stood by him to the end."
Exactly that. That is what family and friends need/want to know. And he is not forgotten.
Jim,you may not hear from his immediate family but maybe a neice or nephew,or a son or daughter,or a grandchild......i can speak from experience. They crave to know....it's a yearning deep from within.
cl, the thought of such a contact leaves me shaking. However, I would not have made the post if I wasn't ready to address them. Odd isn't it? We fought our way in to get him,then fought our way out with him,Ak's,M-16's and frags going off all around and we did it without hesitation or even noticeable fear, but the thought of addressing one of Speedy's family members after 41 years leaves me shaking in my boots.
It's guys like you and my late brother in law that caused me to join 23 years ago. It's guys like you that trained me so well that I survived and passed on the lessons learned to the young men(and now, women) in my units. You continue to inspire the best of us and the best in us. Words cannot capture what you have gone through but Thank You so much for your service. God Bless the America that you defended. Please keep posting and never forget.
It's guys like you and my late brother in law that caused me to join 23 years ago. It's guys like you that trained me so well that I survived and passed on the lessons learned to the young men(and now, women) in my units. You continue to inspire the best of us and the best in us. Words cannot capture what you have gone through but Thank You so much for your service. God Bless the America that you defended. Please keep posting and never forget.
Being of the generation of the 60's, I like many, carry that time internally. I remarked to a friend of mine that walks with a fuzed leg, shrapnel wounds, that i don't think it will ever end until we are all dead and a footnote in history. It effected everyone, nomatter if they went to s.e. asia, were in combat, or not. It shaped our collective thinking with which we live today. My friend with the leg now gets a disability which took a lot of work and years to get. When the movie came out about the wounded vet in the wheelchair and his experiences, i just had to look at a guy i knew in my small town that had got a machine gun burst turning him into a wheelchair guy. Or another high school friend of mine that had the same thing happen, and at age 19 was going to wear a poop bag the rest of his life. Years later had somebody ask if i knew this guy, cause he always seemed bitter, not knowing of his early history. I said you need to give him some understanding because he has a right to be the way he is. As i type this i remember my friend drunk as a skunk in a cathouse in mexico in 1969 after he got back. And that bag. He was never after able to really keep any relationships. I don't mean to take away from the main point of this thread, which i linked to just about everybody i know. But it did bring up all thoses faces again, which those of us still alive will not forget. Not all are on the wall either. One guy i knew, named Monte, spend the next year or two after he got back walking around the streets of prescott, wouldn't talk to anybody. Until one day he stuck a gun barrel up his nose. All casualities in their own way. Or another friend that in 1968 happened to walk with his company into a n.v.a. divisional headquarters. Layed for a couple of hours bleeding out until he woke up on okinawa. A couple ofyears ago he called me and asked me if i though he had post trumatic stress. The V.A. after all those years said they thought he had it. My answer was how could he NOT have it, and it took them all those years to state it? It goes on.
This thread continues to be incredibly inspiring, I hope it keeps going for a while and maybe illicit some more combat stories from our members.
I will point out one thing that whilst not surprising, it is still telling nevertheless; The absence of comments from the usual suspects that fail to realize it was (and is) men like these that meake them free. jorge
All of us who lived through those years got shaped by them, one way or another. I kind of wonder sometimes if there will even be a footnote.
I was talking to a friend a while back and sharing military stories. He doesn't think about it much, now. But he did have a photo of a general shaking his hand in some hospital. He was being awarded a Silver Star.
He said he didn't do anything to deserve it, he was just trying to help a wounded buddy.
cl, the thought of such a contact leaves me shaking. However, I would not have made the post if I wasn't ready to address them. Odd isn't it? We fought our way in to get him,then fought our way out with him,Ak's,M-16's and frags going off all around and we did it without hesitation or even noticeable fear, but the thought of addressing one of Speedy's family members after 41 years leaves me shaking in my boots.
Jim,just recall your first time moving out ( and probably your last time as well).....it's the power of the unknown.....for myself it was an inner release of guilt that i had come home and lived and their's had only returned home.....i then felt the stress of what you're going thru currently. Thankfully i was contacted almost immediately (i accidently posted near his birthdate). All i can tell ya now is that you have done a good thing and not to freak out worrying over a response. It may never come. That's why i do what i expressed in our privy msgs.....a tad dinky dau but hey......... The family will recognize your intent.......and appreciate it.
cl, the thought of such a contact leaves me shaking. However, I would not have made the post if I wasn't ready to address them. Odd isn't it? We fought our way in to get him,then fought our way out with him,Ak's,M-16's and frags going off all around and we did it without hesitation or even noticeable fear, but the thought of addressing one of Speedy's family members after 41 years leaves me shaking in my boots.
Not to worry Jim. The same One will be with you today that was with you in 1970!
I have to jump in at this point to say a few words.I never in my wildest dream would have envisioned the response to this thread or the impact that holding those cases has had on my Buddy!! I remember the afternoon I finally found them in my box of memories and thought I better get them sent..figured he would like to have them but not knowing he would post this thread and the wonderful response from all of you..My emotions are mixed,remembering the details of that night was a no brainer I realize we may have saved some lives but leaving those guys and returning to a warm bed,good chow and relative safety has haunted me for many years.
The ground war was a horrible thing and I got to see a bird's eye view of what our grunts were going through day after day..hot LZ's.. Medevac choppers airlifting guys out to aid stations..Jolly Greens assisting downed pilots and brave guys like our own RockyRaab flyin a Cessna where one should never be flown!! Rocky I salute you Sir for your bravery and thank you for your service!!
Ever since Jim and I hooked up and realized that our paths had crossed those many years ago I knew I had stashed away spent cases from that very eventful night.We arrived on station at dusk and coming into the mountains and seeing the muzzle flashes just knew the chit was hittin the fan below and that we had to take immediate action or people would die.Setting up a gun run, and I'll borrow Jim's quote of "Danger Close" here on a friendly position is not SOP or anything you're trained for!!!
Last night my daughter and grandson stopped in briefly and she wanted to use the PC and noticed I had a post minimized.She opened it up and started to read, then she said dad what's this all about so I briefed her on Jim's thread and in a minute or two tears came to her eyes and said "How in the world could you not have ever mentioned this to us kids?" I think a bunch of you understand.... Well,Im ending this here as it's getting somewhat hard to continue for me but again want to thank my pard Jim and all who have wished us well...God bless and never forget those who have given the ultimate sacrifice...Woody
In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. Jesus Christ is the true salvation; Jesus Christ governs, Reigns, defeats and conquers every enemy, visible or invisible;
Jesus, be with me at all times, forever and ever, Upon all roads and ways, upon the water and the land, On the mountain and in the valley, in the house and in the yard,
In the whole world wherever I am, stand, run, ride, or drive; Whether I sleep or wake, eat or drink, There be thou also, Lord Jesus Christ, at all times, late and early, Every hour, every moment; and in all my goings in or out.
Your five holy red wounds, oh Lord Jesus Christ, may they Guard me against all firearms, be they secret or public, That they cannot injure me or do me any harm whatever, In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
May Jesus Christ, with his guardianship and protection, Shield me, always from daily commission of sins, Worldly injuries and injustice, from contempt, from pestilence And other diseases, from fear, torture, and great suffering, From all evil intentions, from false tongues and the words of fools; And that no kind of firearms can inflict any injury to my body, do thou take care of me.
And that no band of thieves, murderers, or evil spirits Secretly enter my house or premises, nor break in; may the dear Virgin Mary, and all children who are in heaven with God, In eternal joys, protect and guard me against them; And the glory of God the Father shall strengthen me, The wisdom of God the Son shall enlighten me, And the grace of God the Holy Ghost shall empower me From this hour unto all eternity.
Some day I am going to visit the wall. 34% of the guys I graduated high school with have their names on that wall.
Although most of the boys in my Senior class and the ones both sides of me went to Vietnam, I only know of one that was killed over there. A lot were injured but it seems as a whole we were lucky. miles
In my heart, I am giving you guys the confetti and ticker tape parade that is sadly so long over due. Thanks is inadequate but along with my deepest respect it is what I have to offer. Godspeed and may you find the peace you so richly deserve.
Woody.....dang puter screen is out of focus............ I am 53 and my Dad got out of Vietnam in 1968. He served 2 tours in Korean War, the first as infantry and the second as air defense, then Vietnam....he never talked about it.
One thing I want to make sure the guys here kow is that the Battle for Hill 474 lasted for 20 days and cost us pretty hard. At that time the 3/506th had 550+ line Grunts and the battle killed or wounded over 100. The 8th and 9th battalions of the NVA 22d Regiment were annihilated.The 7th (so I wuz told) got hit by an Arc Light and evaporated in the An Lao Valley. About 10 days after the incident that Woody attended, my entire company was surrounded for a day,a night and a day. This time however we not only expected it,we were ready for it. That one cost the NVA dearly while we got away with only a few minor wounds. I really wanted for guys here to get a birdseye of just how intense and savage a brawl these hill battles were and just how stone hard US Soldiers really were in the face of an enemy that was of such very high quality as fighting men. With the Regiment we faced,it was a no quarter given,no quarter asked affair. Wrap your minds around that. Absolutely nothing the outside world thought,said or believed made any difference to us. It was just us and the NVA. Grunt against Grunt. To this day, if any Man from the 3/506th at the battle showed at my door, he has a meal and a bed to slepp in. TO THIS DAY,IF AN NVA SURVIVOR of the battle showde at my door,HE WOULD GET THE VERY SAME TREATMENT!!! Do you guys understand that???
Without question you are an honorable man and I understand where you are coming from due to the tremendous respect you would have for them as fighting men. My hat is off to you (if I wore a hat) and Flyboyflem. This is a fantastic thread.
One thing I want to make sure the guys here kow is that the Battle for Hill 474 lasted for 20 days and cost us pretty hard. At that time the 3/506th had 550+ line Grunts and the battle killed or wounded over 100. The 8th and 9th battalions of the NVA 22d Regiment were annihilated.The 7th (so I wuz told) got hit by an Arc Light and evaporated in the An Lao Valley. About 10 days after the incident that Woody attended, my entire company was surrounded for a day,a night and a day. This time however we not only expected it,we were ready for it. That one cost the NVA dearly while we got away with only a few minor wounds. I really wanted for guys here to get a birdseye of just how intense and savage a brawl these hill battles were and just how stone hard US Soldiers really were in the face of an enemy that was of such very high quality as fighting men. With the Regiment we faced,it was a no quarter given,no quarter asked affair. Wrap your minds around that. Absolutely nothing the outside world thought,said or believed made any difference to us. It was just us and the NVA. Grunt against Grunt. To this day, if any Man from the 3/506th at the battle showed at my door, he has a meal and a bed to slepp in. TO THIS DAY,IF AN NVA SURVIVOR of the battle showde at my door,HE WOULD GET THE VERY SAME TREATMENT!!! Do you guys understand that???
I totally understand this, due to talking enough to a good friend and my Alaskan adopted Father. I not only understand what you are saying, and have said, but to further it, I expected NOTHING less either. Hope that makes sense, regards, Jeff
One thing I want to make sure the guys here kow is that the Battle for Hill 474 lasted for 20 days and cost us pretty hard. At that time the 3/506th had 550+ line Grunts and the battle killed or wounded over 100. The 8th and 9th battalions of the NVA 22d Regiment were annihilated.The 7th (so I wuz told) got hit by an Arc Light and evaporated in the An Lao Valley. About 10 days after the incident that Woody attended, my entire company was surrounded for a day,a night and a day. This time however we not only expected it,we were ready for it. That one cost the NVA dearly while we got away with only a few minor wounds. I really wanted for guys here to get a birdseye of just how intense and savage a brawl these hill battles were and just how stone hard US Soldiers really were in the face of an enemy that was of such very high quality as fighting men. With the Regiment we faced,it was a no quarter given,no quarter asked affair. Wrap your minds around that. Absolutely nothing the outside world thought,said or believed made any difference to us. It was just us and the NVA. Grunt against Grunt. To this day, if any Man from the 3/506th at the battle showed at my door, he has a meal and a bed to slepp in. TO THIS DAY,IF AN NVA SURVIVOR of the battle showde at my door,HE WOULD GET THE VERY SAME TREATMENT!!! Do you guys understand that???
One thing I want to make sure the guys here kow is that the Battle for Hill 474 lasted for 20 days and cost us pretty hard. At that time the 3/506th had 550+ line Grunts and the battle killed or wounded over 100. The 8th and 9th battalions of the NVA 22d Regiment were annihilated.The 7th (so I wuz told) got hit by an Arc Light and evaporated in the An Lao Valley. About 10 days after the incident that Woody attended, my entire company was surrounded for a day,a night and a day. This time however we not only expected it,we were ready for it. That one cost the NVA dearly while we got away with only a few minor wounds. I really wanted for guys here to get a birdseye of just how intense and savage a brawl these hill battles were and just how stone hard US Soldiers really were in the face of an enemy that was of such very high quality as fighting men. With the Regiment we faced,it was a no quarter given,no quarter asked affair. Wrap your minds around that. Absolutely nothing the outside world thought,said or believed made any difference to us. It was just us and the NVA. Grunt against Grunt. To this day, if any Man from the 3/506th at the battle showed at my door, he has a meal and a bed to slepp in. TO THIS DAY,IF AN NVA SURVIVOR of the battle showde at my door,HE WOULD GET THE VERY SAME TREATMENT!!! Do you guys understand that???
One thing I want to make sure the guys here kow is that the Battle for Hill 474 lasted for 20 days and cost us pretty hard. At that time the 3/506th had 550+ line Grunts and the battle killed or wounded over 100. The 8th and 9th battalions of the NVA 22d Regiment were annihilated.The 7th (so I wuz told) got hit by an Arc Light and evaporated in the An Lao Valley. About 10 days after the incident that Woody attended, my entire company was surrounded for a day,a night and a day. This time however we not only expected it,we were ready for it. That one cost the NVA dearly while we got away with only a few minor wounds. I really wanted for guys here to get a birdseye of just how intense and savage a brawl these hill battles were and just how stone hard US Soldiers really were in the face of an enemy that was of such very high quality as fighting men. With the Regiment we faced,it was a no quarter given,no quarter asked affair. Wrap your minds around that. Absolutely nothing the outside world thought,said or believed made any difference to us. It was just us and the NVA. Grunt against Grunt. To this day, if any Man from the 3/506th at the battle showed at my door, he has a meal and a bed to slepp in. TO THIS DAY,IF AN NVA SURVIVOR of the battle showde at my door,HE WOULD GET THE VERY SAME TREATMENT!!! Do you guys understand that???
TO THIS DAY,IF AN NVA SURVIVOR of the battle showde at my door,HE WOULD GET THE VERY SAME TREATMENT!!! Do you guys understand that???
Yep.....a very worthy foe. Can't take anything away from them.....they were just following orders as we were. As with any fighting man.....you protect the man on either side of you and trust the man at your six.
As worthy a foe as any before our generation and after.
One thing I want to make sure the guys here kow is that the Battle for Hill 474 lasted for 20 days and cost us pretty hard. At that time the 3/506th had 550+ line Grunts and the battle killed or wounded over 100. The 8th and 9th battalions of the NVA 22d Regiment were annihilated.The 7th (so I wuz told) got hit by an Arc Light and evaporated in the An Lao Valley. About 10 days after the incident that Woody attended, my entire company was surrounded for a day,a night and a day. This time however we not only expected it,we were ready for it. That one cost the NVA dearly while we got away with only a few minor wounds. I really wanted for guys here to get a birdseye of just how intense and savage a brawl these hill battles were and just how stone hard US Soldiers really were in the face of an enemy that was of such very high quality as fighting men. With the Regiment we faced,it was a no quarter given,no quarter asked affair. Wrap your minds around that. Absolutely nothing the outside world thought,said or believed made any difference to us. It was just us and the NVA. Grunt against Grunt. To this day, if any Man from the 3/506th at the battle showed at my door, he has a meal and a bed to slepp in. TO THIS DAY,IF AN NVA SURVIVOR of the battle showde at my door,HE WOULD GET THE VERY SAME TREATMENT!!! Do you guys understand that???
One thing I want to make sure the guys here kow is that the Battle for Hill 474 lasted for 20 days and cost us pretty hard. At that time the 3/506th had 550+ line Grunts and the battle killed or wounded over 100. The 8th and 9th battalions of the NVA 22d Regiment were annihilated.The 7th (so I wuz told) got hit by an Arc Light and evaporated in the An Lao Valley. About 10 days after the incident that Woody attended, my entire company was surrounded for a day,a night and a day. This time however we not only expected it,we were ready for it. That one cost the NVA dearly while we got away with only a few minor wounds. I really wanted for guys here to get a birdseye of just how intense and savage a brawl these hill battles were and just how stone hard US Soldiers really were in the face of an enemy that was of such very high quality as fighting men. With the Regiment we faced,it was a no quarter given,no quarter asked affair. Wrap your minds around that. Absolutely nothing the outside world thought,said or believed made any difference to us. It was just us and the NVA. Grunt against Grunt. To this day, if any Man from the 3/506th at the battle showed at my door, he has a meal and a bed to slepp in. TO THIS DAY,IF AN NVA SURVIVOR of the battle showde at my door,HE WOULD GET THE VERY SAME TREATMENT!!! Do you guys understand that???
Absolutely understood as only a warrior can Sir.
I attended the battle of the Ia Drang valley and LZ X-Ray that they wrote the book about. Maybe someday you and I can sit down and I will tell you what all I did in just a few days.
One thing I want to make sure the guys here kow is that the Battle for Hill 474 lasted for 20 days and cost us pretty hard. At that time the 3/506th had 550+ line Grunts and the battle killed or wounded over 100. The 8th and 9th battalions of the NVA 22d Regiment were annihilated.The 7th (so I wuz told) got hit by an Arc Light and evaporated in the An Lao Valley. About 10 days after the incident that Woody attended, my entire company was surrounded for a day,a night and a day. This time however we not only expected it,we were ready for it. That one cost the NVA dearly while we got away with only a few minor wounds. I really wanted for guys here to get a birdseye of just how intense and savage a brawl these hill battles were and just how stone hard US Soldiers really were in the face of an enemy that was of such very high quality as fighting men. With the Regiment we faced,it was a no quarter given,no quarter asked affair. Wrap your minds around that. Absolutely nothing the outside world thought,said or believed made any difference to us. It was just us and the NVA. Grunt against Grunt. To this day, if any Man from the 3/506th at the battle showed at my door, he has a meal and a bed to slepp in. TO THIS DAY,IF AN NVA SURVIVOR of the battle showde at my door,HE WOULD GET THE VERY SAME TREATMENT!!! Do you guys understand that???
I never served in any branch of the US AFs, but in spirit, I absolutely 100% understand. I am NOT in any way equating bad-blood borne, petty inner city street rivalries that often morphed into violent brawls with retribution to armed conflict on behalf of one's nation, but the guttural respect for your enemy I understand. I'm not talking about slapfights, but confrontations where combatants at times could very well be fighting for their lives. While they often couldn't agree on the color of the sky, warriors respect warriors.
I have read about this very thing in memoirs from feudal Japan to modern day conflict. I guess though, that sometimes a line is drawn. I couldn't bring myself to have a shred of respect for, say, a terrorist perpetrating an act like those we all witnessed on 9/11. Even though some might argue that even those vermin were 'fighting' for a cause, it had nothing to do with honor, and warriors.
Feel free to holler at me, at any time, brother. I've enjoyed our little late night talks. You have the digits. Thank you for sharing some of your demons, and indeed, some of your soul.
cl, the thought of such a contact leaves me shaking. However, I would not have made the post if I wasn't ready to address them. Odd isn't it? We fought our way in to get him,then fought our way out with him,Ak's,M-16's and frags going off all around and we did it without hesitation or even noticeable fear, but the thought of addressing one of Speedy's family members after 41 years leaves me shaking in my boots.
I've read this thread three times and each time it leaves a lump in my throat. Not being eyeball to eyeball, it's hard to express the gratitude and admiration I have for men that do such things.
If you have a mind to do it, tell the family that all of us share in their sacrifice and that a nation is eternally thankful.
I just learned something that I never knew when I was there. A guy from "B" Company who was KIA in a really savage battle in Cambodia in May of 1970 looks like he is going to get the Medal of Honor 41 years after.
I just read this today. Not sure how I missed it. Damn glad I read the whole deal. Whew! Hats off to both you fellas. Glad to see you here at the 'Fire you two. GOD BLESS.
Just made aware of this thread by elk76. To you gents involved in that incident 41 years ago and to all the others alive who went and those fallen in 'Nam, my salute. Many, many thanks.
Many thanks Jim for sharing part of your life with us. My father fought five years in Indochina. Your story honnor all the guys who fought there. Flyboy thanks you allow us to read Jim and your story story.
I figured the pics of the engraved 7.62 case belonged on this, the original thread. I assure you that the jeweler never had someone walk in the door and ask for a cartridge case to be engraved. I explained the signifigance to him and he said he'd do a good job for me (he did!) and charged me 30 bucks for the job. He sure as hell did me and Woody a favor. My wife thinks I'm crazy (nothing new here). Thanks to all of you fellas for the kind words. A Relic of Wars past!
Jim -- I think you have a few extra cartridge cases-- Get yourself a .308 if you don't already own one-- reload a few and hunt with them--- The Luck be with you for a nice buck-- Who else in the World could claim something like that. Web
One thing I want to make sure the guys here kow is that the Battle for Hill 474 lasted for 20 days and cost us pretty hard. At that time the 3/506th had 550+ line Grunts and the battle killed or wounded over 100. The 8th and 9th battalions of the NVA 22d Regiment were annihilated.The 7th (so I wuz told) got hit by an Arc Light and evaporated in the An Lao Valley. About 10 days after the incident that Woody attended, my entire company was surrounded for a day,a night and a day. This time however we not only expected it,we were ready for it. That one cost the NVA dearly while we got away with only a few minor wounds. I really wanted for guys here to get a birdseye of just how intense and savage a brawl these hill battles were and just how stone hard US Soldiers really were in the face of an enemy that was of such very high quality as fighting men. With the Regiment we faced,it was a no quarter given,no quarter asked affair. Wrap your minds around that. Absolutely nothing the outside world thought,said or believed made any difference to us. It was just us and the NVA. Grunt against Grunt. To this day, if any Man from the 3/506th at the battle showed at my door, he has a meal and a bed to slepp in. TO THIS DAY,IF AN NVA SURVIVOR of the battle showde at my door,HE WOULD GET THE VERY SAME TREATMENT!!! Do you guys understand that???
I certainly do understand it, sure couldn't have said it as well as you though.
Somebody already stole my idea of reloadin' a few of those for a .308, and takin' 'em on a hunt. Can't think of better way to polish the memories of those cases.
Mine[other half] doesn't comprehend the significance of a few old shell cases,guess it's because she's heard the war stories too many times.I have a few cases left but would give up a gun before these that's how much they mean to me especially since Jim and I were at the same place and time in a land far away!! That night will always remain branded in my memory banks forever.... W
I figured the pics of the engraved 7.62 case belonged on this, the original thread. I assure you that the jeweler never had someone walk in the door and ask for a cartridge case to be engraved. I explained the signifigance to him and he said he'd do a good job for me (he did!) and charged me 30 bucks for the job. He sure as hell did me and Woody a favor. My wife thinks I'm crazy (nothing new here). Thanks to all of you fellas for the kind words. A Relic of Wars past!
That's a great memento for you and Woody, Jim! Well done.
I just found this thread and I must say it is one powerful thread. Anyone that reads this thread and does not feel something (emotion) is dead inside. I must say nothing could make me feel any prouder to be an American, knowing what valor and guts you guys have, Woody and Jim. Not only you two, but all the veterans that served and fought for our freedom. Even those of you that never saw combat, you either volunteered to serve or were drafted years ago. Most of you have never got the recognition that you deserve. Yet there are the ones here on the fire that truly appreciate you and would have fought proudly in the ditch right beside of you.
I never served, but had family that fought in wars. Granddad (mother�s dad) in World War I, his sons fought in World War II and the Korean War. Two of them were wounded in battle and was lucky enough to make it back home. I have cousins that fought in Nam and they were lucky enough to make it back. Although they never talked about the war much, it is truly amazing to hear what they had to endure while in combat. They were always a hero to me and still are after the are buried in the ground.
Never seen this thread when it was posted; but just read it in its entirety. To just say "Thanks" after all thet has been posted by my 24hr brothers seems trivial; but I'll say it anyway: THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SERVICE from the bottom of my heart. Absolutely the best post I have ever read.
Wow,I just read this whole thread!So many stories like this remain untold that its great to hear this one.Thank both of you for your service,and thanks for sharing this story.I'm also hoisting one in honor of your courage. Lightman
I figured the pics of the engraved 7.62 case belonged on this, the original thread. I assure you that the jeweler never had someone walk in the door and ask for a cartridge case to be engraved. I explained the signifigance to him and he said he'd do a good job for me (he did!) and charged me 30 bucks for the job. He sure as hell did me and Woody a favor. My wife thinks I'm crazy (nothing new here). Thanks to all of you fellas for the kind words. A Relic of Wars past!
This thread has almost come full circle but yet it continues..today I received my engraved case in the mail from EvilTwin.The reality of our paths crossing so many years ago hasn't really sunk in until this afternoon while holding this piece of our history. Lost for words at the present is an understatement..this case goes with me from here on out as a reminder of a true American hero I'm proud to call friend,thanks Jim !!
The inscription reads:
TO SGT WOODY FLEMING SPOOKY FROM SPC JIM MARTIN C 3/506 HILL 474 27 JANUARY 1970
And it came wrapped in this! Yes I like jorge and few others have fallen victim to the "Dark Side" Thanks buddy.
Sean he is really special but I certainly don't have to tell you of all people.I'm very fortunate to have crossed paths with Jim even after all these years...
Consider the same sentiments for and to you, ol' buddy. Ain't many people my wife will make me drive across the state for, just so she can give them a hug.
OK, I read it again, and probably will next year this time I expect, maybe even inbetween.
I thank my lucky stars today that I didn't have to participate in what you grunts did. When I was clerkin' away in a tank battalion in Europe in the 60's I so wished I could go to VN. My hat's off to ET and FlyBoyFlem and ALL vets everywhere. Damn! I wish I could say more.
edit
Yes! There is more to say and this is it: This thread is the best ever and should be recognized as such.
The jeweler who did the engraving on both cases was told the "why" and "how". I think he did a superlative job!! Odd, he had wet eyes when he handed it to me. Must have been his allergies
??? EVERY compliment I gave was HARD EARNED!!!! ALL of you guys deserve more than that. We are all dinosaurs now but folks would do well to remember that we wuz the T-Rex.
Thank you all for serving and all that you did way back then and now. If you haven't already done so I started a post under the Mil. thread at the bottom of the campfire page, sign into it and sound off. Thanks again guys
Woody & Jim - I read this entire thread when it first was posted. I have read the whole thing several times since then. Each and every time, my eyes got wet. Jim, what you did with the cases Woody sent you was outstanding, and, yes, the jeweler did a great job.
I have had the good fortune to meet Woody, and it rained inside. Jim, I also hope to meet you some time. Both of you, again, have my utmost thanks for what you were doing 40+ years ago for me, personally, as well as for your country. I was in college at the time and missed out on being drafted - my "lucky number" never came up. I was embarrassed by the way our guys coming back from VN were treated when they got home. I still am. I know every one of our service men and women are heroes, but the story of you two is special. Maybe we can get another buffalo hunt going sometime, or maybe just get together to have some ribs in CB (I won't even order water, Woody ).
Thanks again to you two and to all of our country's best and bravest. Bless you all.
BTW - When's the Sharps 'sposed to show up, Woody?
BTW - When's the Sharps 'sposed to show up, Woody?
Nick best guess is late August or Sept.It's been a long wait for sure.Thanks for all the kind words and wish you could have made the CF lunch next month,lots of new guys to rain on!
Just read the entire thread...with tears shed....graduated HS in �67...lucky number came up....steel pin in my arm kept me out....lost friends in VN....It seems that the older I get, the stronger the pull of the past becomes....can only imagine the depth of feeling EvilTwin and Flyboy Flem have felt....thankful they were able to connect....thank you for sharing and....Thank You for Your Service....
An amazing story, indeed. Thanks to those who served. I was too young for that war. My brother is older, but was kept out by his bum knee. His best friend in high school served, and wound up with two Purple Hearts.
2 days ago, the rusty gates to the past were pulled open. I am frankly floored!! My BIL actually found a photo of Oscar "Speedy" Gonazales.This part however has floored me. I am the guy in the middle. I forget who the guy on the far right is. Too long ago. It was taken on Speedy's camera and his sister got it with his belongings. In 2007 she sent the pics to a guy who was in Charlie Company.
This has blown me away. I had forgotten the pic was even taken. You are seeing me as the psychotic 20 year old Infantryman I was back in the Bad Old Days. A drink to Speedy.
Great pic Jim,I'm sure this brings back many memories of another lifetime.The bond of "Brothers in arms" transcends time and place but is difficult for many to comprehend..finally great to put a face on your lost friend Speedy.RIP brother.
Great picture, sir. Thank you for your service, back in Vietnam and what you still do now. Thanks for bumping this post back to the top as well. Great story connecting you and Woody.
2 days ago, the rusty gates to the past were pulled open. I am frankly floored!! My BIL actually found a photo of Oscar "Speedy" Gonazales.This part however has floored me. I am the guy in the middle. I forget who the guy on the far right is. Too long ago. It was taken on Speedy's camera and his sister got it with his belongings. In 2007 she sent the pics to a guy who was in Charlie Company.
This has blown me away. I had forgotten the pic was even taken. You are seeing me as the psychotic 20 year old Infantryman I was back in the Bad Old Days. A drink to Speedy.
When my BIL first showed me, he blew it up and I pretty nearly went into shock. I look at it and look at it and the memories pile up hard. Everybody had pics taken with other guys and most never paid it any mind. I could be in 100 photo albums but I just wouldn't remember unless one turned up like this. My camera was shot up in my rucksack by an RPD and was given an unceremonious disposal. I actually hesitated to put it up because it jits me so hard.
We two kept house, the Past and I, The Past and I; I tended while it hovered nigh, Leaving me never alone. It was a spectral housekeeping Where fell no jarring tone, As strange, as still a housekeeping As ever has been known.
As daily I went up the stair, And down the stair, I did not mind the Bygone there -- The Present once to me; Its moving meek companionship I wished might ever be, There was in that companionship Something of ecstasy.
It dwelt with me just as it was, Just as it was When first its prospects gave me pause In wayward wanderings, Before the years had torn old troths As they tear all sweet things, Before gaunt griefs had torn old troths And dulled old rapturings.
And then its form began to fade, Began to fade, Its gentle echoes faintlier played At eves upon my ear Than when the autumn's look embrowned The lonely chambers here, The autumn's settling shades embrowned Nooks that it haunted near.
And so with time my vision less, Yea, less and less Makes of that Past my housemistress, It dwindles in my eye; It looms a far-off skeleton And not a comrade nigh, A fitful far-off skeleton Dimming as days draw by.
EvilTwin.....this is YOUR Gonzales.....maybe you only knew him as "Speedy"..... from the Vietnam War Memorial website.
Oscar Cruz Gonzales was born October 31, 1948 and his home of record was Elsa, Texas. He had attended Edcouch-Elsa High School. In Vietnam, he served with the 3rd Battalion, 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Divsion (Screaming Eagles). He was killed in the Battle of Hill 474 on January 25, 1970. He had been in Vietnam two months and was 21 years old at the time of his death. He was survived by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Jorge G. Gonzalez his sisters: Olga, Felcipas, Olivia, Rita and Elizabeth and brothers: Jorge, Luis, Benigno and Victor. A funeral mass was said at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Elsa and he was buried in Highland Memorial Park in Weslaco, Texas. God rest your soul, Currahee. If any of his family and friends come to this site, please contact me. Thank You.
Jim didn't ask your permission to post these but think it's appropriate that others see them especially knowing the full story of Hill 474 and the loss of your friend Speedy.Thanks to chapped lips for the original research.
2 days ago, the rusty gates to the past were pulled open. I am frankly floored!! My BIL actually found a photo of Oscar "Speedy" Gonazales.This part however has floored me. I am the guy in the middle. I forget who the guy on the far right is. Too long ago. It was taken on Speedy's camera and his sister got it with his belongings. In 2007 she sent the pics to a guy who was in Charlie Company.
This has blown me away. I had forgotten the pic was even taken. You are seeing me as the psychotic 20 year old Infantryman I was back in the Bad Old Days. A drink to Speedy.
Jim, that is amazing. Thanks for sharing this with us. I am really looking forward to feeding the tiger again with you again this fall, amigo.
2 days ago, the rusty gates to the past were pulled open. I am frankly floored!! My BIL actually found a photo of Oscar "Speedy" Gonazales.This part however has floored me. I am the guy in the middle. I forget who the guy on the far right is. Too long ago. It was taken on Speedy's camera and his sister got it with his belongings. In 2007 she sent the pics to a guy who was in Charlie Company.
This has blown me away. I had forgotten the pic was even taken. You are seeing me as the psychotic 20 year old Infantryman I was back in the Bad Old Days. A drink to Speedy.
you know where I stand brother...
Me as well Gentlemen, a true mind blowing glimpse into a helluva trip through survival.
God Bless Ya Jim and RIP Speedy, as well as all the other Men who fought and died in that war.
Thanks a ton to every man and woman here who has ever served our great country, particularly those who were never properly welcomed home. One of my greatest regrets is that I never served. I can remember watching a parade with my dad when I was pretty young and I noticed him with his hand over his heart and tears in his eyes as the flag went by. Many years later I figured what it was about. I hope your all as proud of your service as he was.
As the circle has been closed for Woody and me, never forget that there were 28 other men there too and one, PSG Escobar was a GENUINE Hero as he fought it out muzzle to muzzle with 3 NVA so we could retrieve our dead. where ever my Brothers are now, whatever they are doing, I will forever be one of you and all of you have a secure place in my memory and heart. Woody saved us all, not just me. I am merely a poor representative of the Men of Charlie Co. 3/506,101st Airborne Division. Remember them.
Flyboy Flem..Thanks again for bringing this thread back up. I have been reading the " Circle is Closed " thread with a great deal of interest, but had a hard time keeping up with who was on the ground and who flying cover overhead. Now I can put it all together and see the players.
There are many great threads and many great people onboard here at 24HCF....however.....the "41 Years Ago" and "Circle" thread have to rate as the very best on the Fire. Thanks, to all the Vets. You guys are first rate.
As the circle has been closed for Woody and me, never forget that there were 28 other men there too and one, PSG Escobar was a GENUINE Hero as he fought it out muzzle to muzzle with 3 NVA so we could retrieve our dead. where ever my Brothers are now, whatever they are doing, I will forever be one of you and all of you have a secure place in my memory and heart. Woody saved us all, not just me. I am merely a poor representative of the Men of Charlie Co. 3/506,101st Airborne Division. Remember them.
Thanks for this post to Big Jim, and God Bless all of You Bro.
To pick up where we left off a few pics from my perspective to show location and terrain of operations..
Our mission briefs were based on the latest intel as we were usually a two ship compliment and our assigned patrol grids of bad guy activity were primarily incorrect as the night we got in the chit with Jim and the boys.
This is a typical grid map used for nav purposes.. My base at PhuCat we were NW of Qui Nhon and almost due E of Pleiku.
This is a photo of one of our AC's defending the PhuCat bomb dump perimeter taken by AF Security Police..50/50 chance it could have been us.
C119 Shadows TDY'd in on occasion for help with night interdiction missions.
One of our hot patrol areas South along the coast a few clicks West and South of Qui Nhon harbor.Sappers had soft targets to occupy their time and a big POL storage/pipeline facility to harass.We burned lots of gas flying orbits over these hills just to let Charlie know we were watching.
These pics are Hill 474 where ET and I crossed paths with the An Lao valley in the background.A nasty place in late Jan 1970.
Picture number 2 of 474 was taken by one of the guys in my company. We were on that finger for 3 days. Looking at the center ridge and where our battle actually took place is in that picture. The Chithook flying away had just made a fougasse drop on the ridge,which is why all you see is boulders and smoke. 15 drums of fougasse and an igniter would be dropped on the target to burn off the jungle and make crispy critters. If you look close, you will see why we were surrounded. That place was honeycombed with caves. between the 2 ridges is the wide draw/valley/gulch I referred to in the beginning. In the background the knife edge ridge in the distance across the paddies had a 2 gun artillery emplacement just for us. Woodys guns raked that draw between the ridges where the NVA was maneuvering on our flank. Exciting nite to say the least.
2 days ago, the rusty gates to the past were pulled open. I am frankly floored!! My BIL actually found a photo of Oscar "Speedy" Gonazales.This part however has floored me. I am the guy in the middle. I forget who the guy on the far right is. Too long ago. It was taken on Speedy's camera and his sister got it with his belongings. In 2007 she sent the pics to a guy who was in Charlie Company.
This has blown me away. I had forgotten the pic was even taken. You are seeing me as the psychotic 20 year old Infantryman I was back in the Bad Old Days. A drink to Speedy.
Very cool. You can't put a value on things like this.
There are a few people out there that I owe a lot more than a beer, but I don't know if I would want to meet them. It could be embarrassing on my part if it got emotional, and reading this makes me guess that it would.
on a hill in Binh Dinh Province,RSVN, there was a battle. My platoon was on Hill 474 and heavily engaged with the NVA 22nd Regiment. They were all over the hill in a cave netwirk. One of our guys was KIA and we were VERY low on ammunition. A Shadow gunship came on station and fired in support of us. First burst came within 10' of our perimeter. A rather unorthodox method of warning off the guns was employed until radio contact was established. The gatlings fired and fired and fired thus anchoring our flank which the NVA was attempting to maneuver on. We survived the night and the fight. The gunner on that Shadow was our own FlyBoyFlem. Today these arrived
Cases fired from the Gatlings on that night. After 41 years, I have had that battle brought back alive and I am holding it in my hand. Woody's guns saved an American Platoon surrounded by an NVA Regiment that nite. I can't express how having these cases in my hand makes me feel. Thanks for saving our asses that night Woody!!!
As the circle has been closed for Woody and me, never forget that there were 28 other men there too and one, PSG Escobar was a GENUINE Hero as he fought it out muzzle to muzzle with 3 NVA so we could retrieve our dead. where ever my Brothers are now, whatever they are doing, I will forever be one of you and all of you have a secure place in my memory and heart. Woody saved us all, not just me. I am merely a poor representative of the Men of Charlie Co. 3/506,101st Airborne Division. Remember them.
ET,
Phenomenal story and thank you for sharing that window of time into your life. I read the story and just passed my iPad over to my wife to read. There was no way I could recite it to her.
I will remember you and this story every time I see our American Flag. My hats off to you sir, those who stood bedside you, and those who flew the top cover.
I find this thread humbling and very proud that I can call ET and Woody my friends. What these guys did (as well as many of you here who fought in that conflict) was nothing short of above and beyond. jorge
Jorge I never posted this before but ET always talks about how we saved his behind,some truth but what he hasn't revealed is the fact he and his pards opened a big can of whipazz on the NVA that evening keeping their heads down while we made our gun runs.Operating below minimums down in that valley and well within AK and RPG range we took zero hits.These guys all should have received commendations for their fire suppression under extreme duress and just might have saved an aircrew in the process...W
Jim and I have had some good talks about this action and you are absolutely correct, these guys should have been decorated for their actions. I am just in AWE as to what all of you guys did in that conflict.
I just discovered this thread and have only read a few posts but I am hooked! Now I'm glad we have a weekend blizzard forecasted because it will give me a chance to read this whole thing. So far all I can say is WOW.
Just made it home to read the rest of the thread, Jim. I appreciate the message.
The extra photos and insight are amazing. Like Rattler, I've not had the pleasure of meeting Woody in person, but Jim is fine people in my book.
I can't begin to express my gratitude to this nation's veterans, and especially our Vietnam Veterans. You men had a tough row to hoe when you got back home even.
Jim, Woody, once again you two have made my eyes water, not many can achieve this.
I owe you both of you Gentleman a debt of gratitude that I will never be able to repay so I make a promise to you and every soldier past and present, I will live my life a FREE man with every effort made to enjoy the rights afforded to me thru God and the men and women of the armed services.
Thank you again for sharing such a personal story.
Maybe some of the newer Campfire denizens will take the opportunity to get a snapshot of that war through this. If it gets the hair on the back of their necks standing then it will have opened some eyes. Woody and I spoke about this earlier this evening. It still gives us the chills. Thanx Woody. Thanks everyone.
Just found this thread for the first time and read each and every post. While words don't do enough, I want to say Thank You to every veteran on this board.
Thought one of you reprobates was working one already and your dance card was full, but I was next in line if someone backed out. Silver Sage is fine by me BTW.
The best thread I'll ever have the honor of reading. I've learned a lot of things in the past five years, and I only hope this thread educates those who haven't had the privilege of this knowledge.
Jim, after talking to my Dad's Company Commander, I understand EXACTLY what you meant about courtesy being extended to those you fought against. It was told to me by good authority that the NVA might well have been the finest light Infantry our guys have ever faced.
I don't know how a story can pain me that much, and at the same time make me glad Ive had the honor of meeting and knowing these two.......but this one does.
It has already been said multiple times, but thank you two....and welcome home.
EvilTwin and FlyboyFlem you have my utmost and deepest respect. We haven't met but we have a friend in common who related this story to me. I am glad you are both here with us to share this.
Right back at ya Jim and to all we left behind that night but mine will be a tall glass of Buff Trace at 17:30 hrs this evening.We were in pre-flight mode about this time,topping off tanks,loading 7.62 and flares for our mission up North but never realized we would be diverted to a nasty hill battle which would change our lives forever...Salute my friend!
I am currently tipping a Salute to Oscar "Speedy" Gonzales and Woody.
And now, same here Big Jim, I'll just take the rest of the day off and hit a strong pull on the jug of apple 'shine I got for Christmas, SALUD! to ALL and an undying Thanks for All Your Service to this great Nation, the Flag, and the People it represents!
Gents most of you know our story by now,how our paths crossed in another lifetime on a hill in Vietnam so many years ago.Tomorrow 25 Jan 2017 is an anniversary of sorts now 47 years since that encounter.
We'd like to extend an invitation to all our CF friends joining us in a toast tomorrow evening at 17:30 hrs as Jim and I hoist a glass to those we left behind....W
We'd like to extend an invitation to all our CF friends joining us in a toast tomorrow evening at 17:30 hrs as Jim and I hoist a glass to those we left behind....W
It's 17:30 hrs here which would have been our takeoff time. My glass is raised in honor for my friend Jim and those we left behind..Rest in peace brothers..Salute
Thanks for your service guys,,,,salute edit to add; It's threads like this that make this site so enjoyable,So many great people here.And again THANKS to all Vets.
Gentlemen thanks again for the kind words.A parting pic that means more to us than words can ever describe made possible by our friend and brother Keith {eh76} who put our reunion hunt together.
It's 17:30 hrs here which would have been our takeoff time. My glass is raised in honor for my friend Jim and those we left behind..Rest in peace brothers..Salute
I'll make it a point to raise a glass for you both, at 1730 Hrs this date. God bless you, boys.
Gentlemen thanks again for the kind words.A parting pic that means more to us than words can ever describe made possible by our friend and brother Keith {eh76} who put our reunion hunt together.
The Salutes have been made and the drinks hoisted. Thanks guys for giving Woody and me some of your time. All of us who were there are old men now. At that point in time, we honestly didn't think we were going to make one more day. What a ride we have had!!!
1/26/70.. Another year another remembrance..Jim and I have vowed to raise a toast to honor those left behind that night until our last breath ..We invite you to join us tomorrow at 17:30 CST.
RIP Cpl Gonzales Welcome Home to all vets. Thank you both for your service as well as others here on 24HCF for your service. Fortunately there was someone on station to provide the firepower support that a platoon could never muster or sustain. I would imagine others here came in with folks to lend a helping hand to the lonely guys on the ground at a time when it was MOST appreciated. I am betting that the assistance of supporting superior firepower no matter the source was/is appreciated!
The Salutes have been made and the drinks hoisted. Thanks guys for giving Woody and me some of your time. All of us who were there are old men now. At that point in time, we honestly didn't think we were going to make one more day. What a ride we have had!!!
Originally Posted by FlyboyFlem
1/26/70.. Another year another remembrance..Jim and I have vowed to raise a toast to honor those left behind that night until our last breath ..We invite you to join us tomorrow at 17:30 CST.
I can’t believe that I have never read this before. I very rarely ever have a drink but tomorrow sure seems very appropriate. Thank you men for your service, for your heroic acts and for living with the all of the obvious nightmares and horrors of war. May our Father God and Savior Jesus The Christ richly bless you both.
I'll be raising my glass as usual at 17:30 our time..We survived !
Jim & Woody....
another year and another toast and salute of respect to two great gentlemen
who I have been blessed to be a guest in both of their homes.....
I've served and have been around a lot of guys who saw action in Vietnam and other war zones, but none have ever topped the humility I have felt in the presence of Woody and Jim... they may have equaled it, but never exceeded it.
On top of it, they are both damn fine gentlemen in their own rights.
I wish you both many more happy, healthy years ahead to do your annual remembrance toasts.. to those that made it home and to those left behind.
OK,here goes. 474 wasn't a high hill,only 474 meters,but huge in mass. we were on the side facing the South China Sea (25klicks out) and there were 2 long finger ridges with a wide (350m) draw between them. The left hand ridge was lower in height but absolutely lousy with roky caves. We had moved from a combat assault on the summit with my Platoon on the south edge of said finger ridge. We go itno it HARD about halfway down. "Speedy" Gonzales the ag for the M60 got shot in the chest in a bowl in the middle of a bunch of caves. 4 of us, Greg Dodge,Tiny Johnson the Medic, Billy Sims an M79 grenadier and myself went in to get Speedy while Psg Escobar fought it out at 10'range with the gooks to cover us. We got him otu and the REAL fighting began. The NVA GREATLY outnumbered us and were maneuvering on our flank. NOBODY who has experience ever would allow the NVA to maneuver on them. We went low on ammo and called for help. The Spooky showed and began a fire run. The burst was actually within 10' of our perimeter.Tommy"Sunshine" Scoville yelled out we're [bleep]!!! I yelled at Sims to jump on the rock and shuck and jive. He said I wuz outta my friggin mind. I said Billy, the NVA ain't drafted or enlisted any [bleep] lately so jump up and dance,even a dumbass Zoomie would recognize you!!! Sims yelled back that I wuz right, jumped up and danced and the Pilot pulled off until we could get actaul radio contact with him. It would never make it into any tactical manual but we were who we were. We came through it all together and only lost one man. January 25 1970
Good job my friend.. what the rest of you guys that weren't in the chit need to understand is the "N" word was not at all derogatory in most cases!! and for me some of my black buds were also called that and they in turn affectionately had names for us white dudes ..sound not at all for the times or the bond of brothers black or white!! 41 years seems like a life time but to Jim and me it was yesterday..I'm so very fortunate to have met him here on the "Fire" and above all call him my friend!! ... The "Dumbazz Zoomie"
What a shining moment to have in memory. Powerful enough so that even one who did not live it may draw from it's example. I wish there was some TV program, some blend of "The Big Picture" and "Combat" that would show these things. I know there have been movies made but they are big, expensive and sometimes it seems that the core of the story gets hidden by ejecting brass. Thanks for reposting this for the dullards like me.
Without a doubt this is the best post ever. Each year I’m amazed how fate brought you two together and pray that you’ll share many more toasts as the years go by.
Well, I'm gobsmacked. I somehow missed this thread the entire time. I deeply regret that I wasn't on that hunt with you guys, just to toast a little, cry a little, and love a lot.
I came to 'Nam a year after Hill 474, but my first FAC assignment was out of LZ English with the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Binh Dinh Province. I had my own duels with the NVA there. And have a story about a Black man on point on a similar ridge that I cannot tell without choking up.
As they used to say at the end of each "Dragnet" show, there are many stories in the big city; this has been one of them.
Well, I'm gobsmacked. I somehow missed this thread the entire time. I deeply regret that I wasn't on that hunt with you guys, just to toast a little, cry a little, and love a lot.
I came to 'Nam a year after Hill 474, but my first FAC assignment was out of LZ English with the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Binh Dinh Province. I had my own duels with the NVA there. And have a story about a Black man on point on a similar ridge that I cannot tell without choking up.
As they used to say at the end of each "Dragnet" show, there are many stories in the big city; this has been one of them.
Thanks Rocky we would have enjoyed your company as well... a sit down with you is still on my bucket list before Mr.G. Reaper comes calling..
Jim's info here.. Bad guys 22nd NVA regiment...Good guys... 101st Airborne Div..,Co B and C..3rd Battalion 503rd Infantry 173 rd Airborne Brigade. We weren't supposed to be there that night but as fate would have it we managed to duke it out for while until bingo ammo and fuel.. We had a full 7.62 load out that night and went through all 30,000 rds which lightened us up considerably on the return trip.
474 with the An Lao valley in the distance you most likely know the area well.
That valley was an NVA stronghold in '71. Or was still one, I should say. At the time, there was a ROK brigade stationed nearby 173rd. The Koreans were known to be the toughest, meanest, cruelest mofos on two legs. Comanches were nuns in comparison. We started the rumor that the ROKs were to be allowed a "Koreans-only, no ROE" search and destroy up the length of that valley. Overnight, the NVA absolutely disappeared. Rumors are sometimes the best weapons.
Yes Sir the ROK troops weren't to be messed with..Phu Cat had a detachment for perimeter defense that always managed to nail most of the 122 rocket crews before they got away.
AT LZ English, the NVA would send a sapper in at night. He'd creep in through the wire until he found a Claymore, which he would turn around and set it up facing our lines. Then he'd creep off a ways and rattle the wires. When our sentries fired the Claymore, they'd get blasted with it. NVA must have thought it was cute. The 173rd asked the ROKs if they could help, thinking that maybe they'd send a guy or two down there to catch the bad guy.
Nope. A ROK lieutenant showed up with a starlight scope. He watched, smiling, as an NVA sapper tediously wormed his way in. Until he reached for the Claymore. At which point, the ROK Lt reached for the clapper, and...
Next morning, they found two hands. Nothing else. The ROK Lt hung those hands on the outermost razor wire, and that kind of intrusion stopped.
I just read this entire post for the first time. It brought back many memories I have from being a crew chief on C-130's in Vietnam from 1967-1970.
I watched Spooky gunships operate several times early on and man, I always wanted to be a gunner on one of them. Later on in 68, I flew 40 missions out of Ubon Thailand on Blind Bat 130's and got to watch the C-130 gunships work. Again, I thought how cool it would to be a gunner on a gunship.
My hat is off to all of you vets in Viet Nam , and especially to you heroes on the ground! Just think of how many years ago that was, and how we all share a memory that still seems like it happened yesterday.
Ken
PS I just looked in the fridge----6 or 7 cans of Bud Light will have to do. I hope noon isn't too early!
Appreciate the sentiment and intent, troublesome, but the slow salute is usually meant for the fallen. It is entirely right and proper to give one in this case, but not for Woody and Jim (May they both be with us for a long time more!)
Look through this thread and see who doesn’t post anymore. Substantial members of the Campfire to never be heard from.
You can thank all the whiners and complaining from the losers that have taken over, yet this is a monument to all the good guys you don’t hear from anymore.
Another 25 Jan has arrived so we will be raising our glasses at 17: 30 to honor those we left behind...Since Jim and I met here on the Fire we invite you to join us..
Another 25 Jan has arrived so we will be raising our glasses at 17: 30 to honor those we left behind...Since Jim and I met here on the Fire we invite you to join us..
Hello all January 1970. I was a sophomore in Highschool looking to score even a kiss from some little sophomore high school girl. ET and Woody were fighting for their lives in some little [bleep]. I am so glad we had those heroes in our lives. And, are still with us tonight. Thanks for what you guys have done for us. Bottoms up.
I really think this is the best thread to ever be put on the campfire.. and glad to see it resurface once again..
I've met both Woody and Jim... and even been a guest in their home...
have met a bunch of campfire members in my time here ..... but none finer than either Woody or Jim...
And then with all of this, two of the most humble men I've ever met in my lifetime.. and that has been a bunch of people.
Happy Anniversary Guys, and thank God you both made it home in one piece.
A salute of respect, and gratitude... for our nation, and being able to be a guest in your homes... It was I who was dramatically humbled for my good fortune.
1st time I have seen this thread. I was raised watching the Viet Nam War on T.V. news with Walter Cronkite and Dan Rather. It ended when I was 14. I have read the entire thread and I am not ashamed to say that I have watery eyes. I have always been interested in the stories told by the guys that were actually in combat. But it is darn near impossible to get them to open up if you haven't Been There-Done That. I never pushed too hard. I was afraid of dredging up some bad memories. Though just asking about it opened that door. I only met one guy, he was about 6 years older than me, that didn't get wistful and melancholy. He even got out the photo album. That was cool. I loved his stories.
Thanks for sharing this one, EvilTwin. I appreciate the insight.
I'll make an appt. with a Mr. Jack Daniels at 5:30 p.m. this afternoon.
![[Linked Image]](http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y222/EvilTwinMar/HILL474.jpg)
Flem(Woodie) left me a voicemail. I ain't so hot at aircraft recognition (I wuz a Grunt,not a AAA gunner). It was a SPOOKY ship,not a shadow. 
OK,here goes. 474 wasn't a high hill,only 474 meters,but huge in mass. we were on the side facing the South China Sea (25klicks out) and there were 2 long finger ridges with a wide (350m) draw between them. The left hand ridge was lower in height but absolutely lousy with roky caves. We had moved from a combat assault on the summit with my Platoon on the south edge of said finger ridge. We go itno it HARD about halfway down. "Speedy" Gonzales the ag for the M60 got shot in the chest in a bowl in the middle of a bunch of caves. 4 of us, Greg Dodge,Tiny Johnson the Medic, Billy Sims an M79 grenadier and myself went in to get Speedy while Psg Escobar fought it out at 10'range with the gooks to cover us. We got him otu and the REAL fighting began. The NVA GREATLY outnumbered us and were maneuvering on our flank. NOBODY who has experience ever would allow the NVA to maneuver on them. We went low on ammo and called for help. The Spooky showed and began a fire run. The burst was actually within 10' of our perimeter.Tommy"Sunshine" Scanlon yelled out we're [bleep]!!! I yelled at Sims to jump on the rock and shuck and jive. He said I wuz outta my friggin mind. I said Billy, the NVA ain't drafted or enlisted any [bleep] lately so jump up and dance,even a dumbass Zoomie would recognize you!!! Sims yelled back that I wuz right, jumped up and danced and the Pilot pulled off until we could get actaul radio contact with him. It would never make it into any tactical manual but we were who we were. We came through it all together and only lost one man. January 25 1970
and for me some of my black buds were also called that and they in turn affectionately had names for us white dudes 
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This Buds For you. ----- Web
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