Secret Commandos - Traditional Karate

The quiet professionals
Masters of unconventional warfare
The Army's elite counter-terrorism experts
Intelligence Support Activity
Top secret intelligence gatherers
The extensive professional training that our warriors endure
provides each American the Freedom we enjoy.
A PERSONAL TOUR OF THE MAKINGS OF A TRUE WARRIOR
YOUR MOST POWERFUL WEAPON IS YOUR MIND
A focused, agile mind. Physical toughness. That’s what
it takes to be in the Army Special Forces.
Missions are completed
with the most advanced
technology and support
teams in history.
ARMY SPECIAL FORCES
The Armys Most Specialized
Experts in Unconventional
Warfare.
Exceptional training to find strength
for life.
July 30 - August 2, 2014
SPECIAL TOUR TO
Ft. Lewis-McChord
Tacoma, Washington
Featuring
Major John Plaster
SGM Skip Ettinger
SSG. Glenn Uemura
Presented by
Del Saito
1.
FT. LEWIS-MCCHORD
Ft Lewis-McCord. The joint base is
a United States military facility located south-southwest of Tacoma,
Washington under the jurisdiction
of the United States Army Joint
Base Garrison, Joint Base LewisMcChord. The facility is an amalgamation of the United States
Army's Fort Lewis and the United
States Air Force's McChord Air
Force Base which merged on 1
Ft. Lewis-McChord is under the jurisdiction of of the U.S. Army Joint Base February 2010 into a Joint Base.
Garrison.
Fort Lewis has more than 25000 soldiers and civilian workers. It is also home to the 593rd Sustainment
Brigade, the 555th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, the 51st Signal Battalion, the 1st Personnel Support Group, Western Region Cadet Command, 62nd Medical Brigade, the 42nd Military Police Brigade,
the I Corps NCO Academy, 11th Signal Brigade, 1st Special Forces Group, 2nd Battalion, 75th
Ranger Regiment and Headquarters.
SPECIAL INVITATION
A few months ago, while teeing it up on the 1st hole at Grants Pass Golf Club, Glenn Uemura suggested
to Del Saito that they should go to Ft. Lewis-McCord to sit in on a presentation by Major John Plaster,
a personal friend who served with him in the Vietnam War. Glenn, a Special Forces Airborne veteran in
the Vietnam theater and Purple Heart recipient, also told Del that John Plaster and Skip Ettinger were
eager to meet him as well. Del of course was delighted for the invitation, since he had already read the
incredible stories by John Plaster in his book Secret Commandos.
Fort Lewis, named after Meriwether Lewis of the famed Lewis and Clark expedition, is one of the largest and most
modern military reservations in the United States.
2.
DAY ONE
Glenn also said that there would be other SF veterans present who were some of the most distinguished
members of the Special Forces and Studies and Observation Group (SOG). Known as the Green Berets,
these warriors were tasked with five primary missions: unconventional warfare (the original and most
important mission of Special Forces), foreign internal defense, special reconnaissance, direct action,
and counter-terrorism. Although this was the most elite commando group in the Vietnam War, it's existence wasn't acknowledged by the US government until the late 1980's.
Early in the morning, on July 30, Glenn and Del headed out to Washington, a seven hour plus noneventful car ride from Grants Pass, Oregon.
Upon arrival at Fort Lewis, Washington, Glenn and Del were greeted by Special Forces veteran, Sergeant Major Skip Ettinger, Recon Team New Mexico. Skip informed Glenn and Del of the activities that
were planned, both at the base and the Veterans Memorial Museum in Chehalis, Washington.
After taking Glenn and Del to his house for some relaxation and snacks, Skip escorted the men to greet
Major John Plaster who flew in from Minnesota. Major Plaster is a retired U.S. Army Special Forces Airborne soldier regarded as one of the leading sniper experts in the world. A decorated Vietnam War veteran who served in the covert Studies and Observations Group (SOG), Plaster co-founded a renowned
sniper school that trains military and law enforcement personnel in highly specialized sniper tactics. He
is the author of The Ultimate Sniper: an Advanced Training Manual for Military and Police Snipers, The
History of Sniping and Sharpshooting, and Secret Commandos: Behind Enemy Lines with the Elite Warriors of SOG, a memoir of his three years of service with SOG. He has received the Bronze Star Medal,
Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Combat Infantryman Badge.
Skip arranged for John, Glenn and Del to stay at Fort Lewis’ state of the art, beautiful community recreational cabins, where they stayed for the duration of their visit. The cabins are nestled in a quiet corner
of the American Lake and very accommodating including a kitchen and outdoor BBQ grill.
Glenn Uemura, John Plaster, Del Saito and Karl Hamilton.
3.
Del Saito and Skip Ettinger, our super host, is also an
8th degree Black of Seibukan Karate-do.
Beautiful community recreational cabins with outdoor adventure programs.
Clean kitchen and living room area with full bathrooms and Cable TV.
Spacious living room area with a deck overlooking
the lake.
Bunk beds that were made to last are an absolute hit with soldiers and their families.
After settling in and getting acquainted, Karl Hamilton pays a visit and presents John Plaster and Glenn
Uemura with a beautiful laser cut wooden plaque commemorating their SOG (Studies and Observations
Group) involvement in Vietnam. Soon they all begin to share their interesting stories, in and out of combat, laughing at some of the crazy things they did at their young age. Some of these included the ‘Mustang in the pocket’, the ‘Ugly Duckling’ contest and ‘Amonute’ the gal who saved John Smith .
Later that afternoon, John, Glenn and Del headed out to the local commissary to stock up on milk, chips,
beer, soft drinks, water, fruits and assorted snacks. Overlooking the serene American Lake, time sort of
stood still while the men reflected on the importance of service to country to preserve our freedom.
“Fighting soldiers from the sky, Fearless men who jump and die, Men who mean
just what they say, The brave men of the Green Beret.”
4.
John Plaster and Karl Hamilton share Beautiful Wooden plaques were
presented to Glenn and John.
some of their close NVC encounters.
Glenn shares an interesting Recon
Team Hawaii mission.
That evening, Skip took the visitors to a nice Japanese Restaurant where they all enjoyed a delicious
teppanyaki dinner. After they ate, talked, laughed and shared more stories, Skip detailed the next day’s
activities which would include a private tour of the Special Forces facility. Arrangements were also made
for John Plaster to present a lecture for Special Forces trainees, veterans and guests in the early afternoon.
A great way to share a tasty meal prepared with the Del, Skip, John and Glenn very satisfied and more so
chef’s special touch.
when Skip paid the tab.
After returning to the Eagle’s Nest, the men shared more experiences, including those that they wish
were forever forgotten. It wasn’t too long after everyone hit the sack that raccoons scampered away
having to listen to the obnoxious loud snores.
DAY TWO
Early the next morning, John, Glen and Del ate a quick breakfast at Burger King before reporting to
Special Forces Headquarters. When they arrived, they were met by Skip Ettinger, Ralph Rodd and other
fellow Recon team members who served with them in Vietnam. The hugs and smiles were a clear indication that these Purple Heart recipients respected each other and eternally connected by their call to
duty that saw many of their comrades die for our country’s freedom. It was only as if it was yesterday
“Silver wings upon their chest, These are men, America's best. One hundred men
we'll test today. But only three will win the Green Beret.”
5.
that they last saw each other. The men were welcomed by Colonel Johnson, Major Sylvestre, Sergeant
Major Phister and Sergeant Major Napolet.
Del Saito, Glenn Uemura, Bryon Loucks, Skip Ettinger, Ralph In front of the 1st Special Forces Group Memorial granite
Rodd and John Plaster in front of Special Forces headquarters.
Wall.
Sergeant Phister conducted the tour for the visitors. As the men rode in the van SF provided, he noted,
mainly to inform Del, the only non SF member, that entry into Special Forces begins with Special Forces
Assessment and Selection, or SFAS, held at Camp Mackall, near Fort Bragg, N.C. Mentally and physically demanding, the course is designed to see if a Soldier has what it takes to serve on the Special
Forces Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA), also known as a SFOD-A or an 'A-Team'. The members
of this team are the primary fighting force of the Green Berets. Particular emphasis is placed on attributes
such as intelligence, physical fitness, motivation, trustworthiness, accountability, maturity, stability, judgment, decisiveness and teamwork. About 40 percent of all candidates attempting SFAS are successful.
Getting "selected" at SFAS (Phase 1) enables a candidate to continue to the next four phases of the
Special Forces Qualification Course (the "Q-Course"). All Special Forces trainees must complete the
Army Airborne School before beginning Phase 2 of the Q-Course. If a candidate successfully completes
these phases, he will graduate as a Special Forces Soldier and be assigned to an ODA.
The tour included: visiting the Special Forces Group Airborne Headquarters, including the 1st SFG (Airborne)
Fallen Heroes room; one of the most well-equipped fitness facilities that are envied by NFL players, including
a
combative
section; a
Maritime
Operations and
Major Sylvestre, Colonel Johnson, SGM Napolet M a i n t e and SGM Phister.
nance facility; a facility for soldiers who undergo some of the
Army's most intense sniper training, including high powered weapons, state-of-the-art night vision scopes and
optics, ammunition, velocity of a sniper bullet, camouflage
(Ghillie suit) and communications; and a stop for lunch at
Bryon, Rodd and Glenn listening on the modern
the Special Forces Dining Facility.
day training of SF recruits.
6.
ARMY’S MOST INTENSE SNIPER TRAINING SCHOOL
Major Plaster always making time to autograph his
books.
SFC Gonsior sharing sniper’s weapons of choice.
7.62×51mm is currently the primary cartridge of choice
for sniper rifles. Amazing technology for Glenn & Del.
A sniper rifle is a precision-rifle used to ensure more accurate placement of bullets at longer ranges.
A typical sniper rifle is fitted with a telescopic sight and John Plaster gives sniper school instructors a handheld
chambered for a military centerfire cartridge.
meteorological measuring device.
7.
Telescopic sights offer much greater magnification
(more than 4× and up to 40×).
Professional Sniping instructor shows Del how easy the
bolt action is.
Bryon Loucks, recon member, takes a peep in the sight
with special reticles to aid with judgment of distance.
Ralph Rodd tries on the gear used by snipers including
communication accessories.
Glenn Uemura locates his photo in Major Plaster’s book
to autograph it for one of the instructors.
Suppressors on rifles reduces the muzzle blast and flash
that could betray the Sniper’s position.
8.
MARITIME OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE FACILITY
Endless stories shared that will forever be etched in
their memories for the sake of a better America.
SMG Chong extends his greetings to Del Saito and Glenn
Uemura, who are fellow Hawaiians.
MSG Chong explains the intense training to counter the
issue of terrorism and piracy attacks.
Training is to insure that diving equipment and skill levels are up to standard before going into open water.
MSG Chong explains the pros and cons of the ‘White
Tin’, the one man underwater vehicle.
John points out a fellow veteran in a photo to Mike Reial,
recon team Cobra.
9.
FITNESS AND SELF DEFENSE FACILITY
The army now hires professional trainers to oversee
their fitness program.
This awesome gym is the envy of many professional
sports teams including some from the NFL.
Lots of clean and modern equipment makes for a fantastic workout.
Free weights, cardio machines and a fantastic Cross-Fit
program adds class to this plush fitness faciltiy.
Nice matted area for wrestling and self defense classes.
Talking with a self defense instructor who keeps the
trainees combat ready.
10.
LUNCH AT MODERN DAY MESS HALL
The modern dining operation employs several civilian
employees rather than the ‘Sad Sacks’ peeling potatos.
SGM Phister can’t keep focused on his lunch as John
shares some of his aerial recon missions.
Del learns how One-Zeros preferred to bring only six
men to fit in one helicopter.
Glenn Uemura shares one of his encounters with the VC
trackers while on a secret mission in Laos.
Phister and Downs listens intently to Major Plaster’s Airborne experiences using his CAR-15 weapon.
Modern day Dining facilities have come a long way since
the earlier chow halls.
11.
After lunch, SF active and SOG veterans congregated in one of the base chapels for a presentation
by Major John Plaster. The three-hour Power Point
production was well received as everyone was impressed at the first hand information of some of the
SF Recon team’s missions in Vietnam, Laos and
Cambodia. The Studies and Observations Group--or
SOG--was a top-secret group of elite warriors who
operated behind enemy lines in Vietnam. Besides
covertly gathering intelligence, SOG was also responsible for rescuing downed American pilots.
Major Plaster, the leading historian of SOG, continued sharing the astonishing story of the SOG warriors, the forerunner of today's Delta Force and
SEALs.
SGM Napolet introducing Maj. John Plaster.
Highly skilled Green Berets, they were the bravest of the brave, the most highly decorated unit in the
war. Chief among their activities was observing the Ho Chi Minh Trail, the main North Vietnamese supply
route into South Vietnam, and disrupting its operations. SOG warriors secretly penetrated deep into
“Not one sign of man anywhere, yet this well maintained
highway was the Ho Chi Minh Trail.”
“It was euphoric riding that climbing Huey, like a dream
in which the hand of God lifts you away from terror.”
Ralph Rodd shares his heart pounding experience where
they encountered over 200 NVCs without one fatality.
Mike Reial shares, “.....enemy soldiers attempted to flank
us, but again they met our gernades.”
“Trained to live off nature's land, Trained in combat, hand to hand, Men who fight
by night and day, Courage taken from the Green Beret.”
12.
Laos and Cambodia to identify bombing targets, destroy troops, ambush trucks, mine roads, and, in their
most difficult assignment, capture North Vietnamese
soldiers for intelligence purposes. Operating in the
most dangerous conditions imaginable — always outnumbered, often by as much as 100 to 1 — SOG
commandos matched wits with an un-relenting foe
that hunted them with trackers and dogs. They suffered an extraordinarily high casualty rate. Ten entire
teams disappeared and another fourteen were overrun and annihilated. Many of the missions run by
SOG fighters were rescues and attempted rescues of
fellow soldiers and downed helicopter pilots who supported SOG missions.
John explains the “Hey Blue” memorial ballad and
what it meant to all the recon men.
Major Plaster’s presentation was very special with
the attendance of several SOG veterans and Purple
Heart recipients. They shared their mission episodes
during the Vietnam war and the SF trainees were impressed and touched by their courage and warrior
spirit of each of the veterans.
John tells how Glenn had saved his life while an enemy
was about to shoot him while setting a claymore mine.
Skip Ettinger sharing his story while serving in Vietnam.
Colonel Johnson thanks Major Plaster for taking the time
to share his experiences with the rest of his troops.
Del and Skip meets a helicopter pilot from Japan who
trains SF soldiers in his country.
13.
FALLEN HEROES MEMORIAL ROOM
Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away
A special room dedicated to honor our Fallen Heroes Glenn learns about SGT. Joshua Strickland, who was killed
in action while serving with the 1st Special Forces Group.
where families and friends can congregate.
Army Spc. Joseph L. Lister, 22, 1st Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, Pleasanton, Kansas.
Spc. Lister was in a convoy when his vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive
device in Ar Ramadi, Iraq. He was assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 34th
Armored Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas. Died on November 20, 2003.
"SPC Lister and I served together with 1-34 Armor. We only knew each other in passing. Not long after
SPC Lister passed away I was wounded and sent back to Fort Riley. I thought a lot about SPC Lister
and the other men that we had lost. I know a part of me left with them. SPC Lister and the other's quickly
became my strength. Because of their sacrifice I'm still Soldiering today. I live each day as a Soldier,
honoring them. I thank the Soldier's and SPC Lister for everything you did for me."
- SSG Glenn Schneider of Tikrit, Iraq
Army SFC Adrian M Elizalde, 30, 2nd battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), North Bend, Oregon
SFC Elizalde was killed when an IED hit his truck on Thursday August, 23rd.
“Adrian was my hero in so many different ways. I used to tell him he was “my
superman.” Adrian meant so much to me, I loved him so much. He was everything I had ever wanted….. I had hoped we’d spend a lifetime together.”
-Tara LaRosa
“Put silver wings on my son's chest, Make him one of America's best, He'll be a
man they'll test one day, Have him win the Green Beret.”
14.
A knapsack donated by a family to place in the museum.
Cruz, Plaster, Loucks and Downs, all proud to serve their
country.
A special thank you to John for all his work in preserving
the history of the SOG teams.
Saito, Cruz & Uemura will cherish and honor all those
that made the ultimate sacrafice for our country.
Plaster & Saito acknowledges that, “Greater love hath no
one than this, than he lay down his life for his friends.”
Ho Chi Minh Sandals made from rubber tires.
15.
AT DAY TO RELAX AT THE EAGLE’S PRIDE
DAY 3
The following day, Skip Ettinger took Glenn Uemura and Del Saito to the Eagles Pride, a beautiful golf
course, generally considered one of the best military courses within the U.S. Department of Defense.
The first 18 holes (the Red and Blue nines) opened in 1940 as Fort Lewis Golf Course. The third nine
("Green") was opened in 1979. The name change to "Eagles Pride" occurred in the mid-1990s. The
course became the 1000th to be designated a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. During play,
the threesome saw deer, coyote and a black bear. Skip threw away the scorecard so a rematch is
scheduled to take place in Grants Pass, Oregon in 2015.
Eagles Pride Golf Course, a certified Audubon sanctuary.
A five foot “give me” is par for the course for Skip.
16.
The evening was filled with more war stories over a scrumptious Chinese buffet dinner. Laughter lifted
the air as Major Plaster, SGM Ettinger and SSG Uemura ribbed each other as each shared their “crazy”
activities just to remain sane after each horrendous encounter with the enemy. Skip and Del also shared
many of their martial arts stories including those of instructors they both know in Asia, and the United
States.
Day 4
The following day, August 2, Major John
Plaster was invited to speak at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Chehalis,
Washington, about an hours drive south
of Fort Lewis. Glenn, Skip and Del were
also invited as special guests. The special program recognized the Vietnam
veterans, especially those that returned. The guests were greeted by
Chip Duncan, the Museum Director.
The three toured the Vietnam Traveling
Wall while Major Plaster toured the museum as he needed time to slip into his
military uniform for his presentation.
Glenn pointed out the name of one of
Veterans Memorial Museum in Chehalis, Washington.
his fallen comrade who had been shot
by the enemy. The names of 58,249 are
inscribed on the Wall, a 3/5 scale of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC, it stands six feet tall at
the center and covers almost 300 feet from end to end. Many who stop at the Wall are solemn and reminded of the great sacrifices made during the Vietnam War. It was made for the purpose of helping
heal and rekindle friendships and to allow people the opportunity to visit loved ones in their home town
who otherwise may not be able to make the trip to Washington.
The Moving Wall is a replica of the Vietnam Veterans National Memorial, "The Wall".
Del and Glenn then toured the museum
before the ceremony. They were informed that the mission of the Veterans
Memorial Museum is to honor and perpetuate the memory of the service men
and women who have served in our nation's armed forces down through the
history of our country during peacetime
or war. The mission of the museum
began over a decade ago with the goal
of making sure that our veterans, "Shall
Not Be Forgotten." The museum display
ranks among the best in this country with
many donated items including letters,
photos, uniforms, weapons and awards.
The Recognition Program began with a music prelude presented by the 56th US Army Band followed
by the posting of the Colors by the 1st Special Forces Group. MAJ John Plaster, also a Covey Rider,
17.
Glenn points out Dennis Bingham’s name, a fellow Recon Team
member who made the ultimate sacrifice.
then spoke about the importance of remembering those who have made the
ultimate sacrifice in preserving our freedom. He also praised those warriors
that have returned who have courageously fought and made sacrifices in
defense of our freedom. He commented
that one of his regrets was not recommending more of his comrades for
medals and the recognition they truly
deserved. He applauded the efforts of
all those that continue to volunteer to
add and preserve the museum pieces
that honor those that served and are
serving our country that they may be
appreciated and never to be forgotten.
The 56th Army Band then played the
songs of each branch of the US Military
as active and non-active members
stood to be recognized while their song
was played. Army - The Army Goes
Rolling Along, Navy - Anchor's Aweigh,
Air Force - The U.S. Air Force , Marine
Corps - The Marines' Hymn, Coast
Guard - Semper Paratus (Always
Ready). Del Saito stood as the Air Force
song was played, as he served in the
Air Force during the Vietnam conflict.
Chip Duncan then introduced Sergeant
Major Dennis Thompson who was born
in Portland, Oregon. He was inducted
Posting of the colors always brings a sense of pride and appreciation into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his unfor all those who serve our country.
failing devotion to duty, and valorous actions against an armed enemy of the
United States. On February 6, 1968,
SSG Thompson was assigned to the
Lang Vei Special Forces Camp when it
came under a massive enemy armor
and infantry attack. He closed to point
blank range and destroyed one of the
tanks with light antitank weapons. The
next day SSG Thompson was calling
helicopters to evacuate surviving camp
defenders when a large enemy force
confronted him. Realizing the impending danger to the helicopters, he waved
them off and attempted to call air strikes
Sgt. Louks and Maj. Plaster reviewing notes before John’s presenon his position. After a hand-to-hand entation.
18.
counter with the enemy, SSG Thompson was rendered unconscious and
taken prisoner. Later in an enemy
prison camp, he and a fellow noncommissioned officer from Camp Lang Vei
planned and executed an escape. His
companion was unable to move quickly
due to open wounds in his legs. After
walking for days they were in sight of
Camp Lang Vei when they were spotted
by enemy troops. Staff Sergeant
Thompson's companion told him to escape into the jungle alone. Knowing
that he would have to assist his comrade in keeping up with the enemy or
they would kill him, SSG Thompson refused to leave his wounded comrade.
John thanks all those that have made the Veterans Memorial Museum possible that all the fallen soldiers shall not be forgotten.
A proud special forces member thanks POW Dennis Thompson for
his faithful service and heroic sacrifice given to our country.
This resulted in SSG Thompson becoming a prisoner of war for five more
years. Staff Sergeant Thompson continuously resisted his captor's efforts to
force him to break the Code of Conduct.
He encouraged other American prisoners to resist also, and as a result spent
almost 3 years in solitary confinement
while his captors attempted to beat and
starve him into submission. After returning to the United States, SGM Thompson completed Ranger School and
served as a First Sergeant in the 2nd
Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. Dennis Thompson is also the recipient of
two Silver Star medals and a Prisoner
of War medal.
Taps were then played by the 56th US
Band Trumpeter, followed by the Retiring of the Colors, Benediction and closing remarks.
Upon conclusion of the formal ceremony, Major Plaster autographed more
of his books while the other SF members said their goodbyes.
Del Saito thanks SSG Thompson, recipient of two Silver Star medals
and a prisoner of War medal, for enduring his hardships.
19.
MORE OF THE VETERANS MEMORIAL MUSEUM
SOG members wore nothing that could identify them as
American teams.
Typical items carried by Special Forces Recon Team
members.
The advancement in military warfare take on a different
look than those used in prior wars.
Sentry dogs are extensively used to protect their fellow
team members.
Major Plaster touched by the donations made to the Memorial Museum.
Standard army dress uniform displaying rank and authorized ribbons.
20.
Veterans Prayer Room. “I asked God for courage, to face
the trials of this world....”.
“Corpsman Fight Too” painting by Colonel Waterhouse’s
Medal of Honor series showcasing Robert E. Bush.
Display of miltary badges.
A tribute to Bob Hope who entertained thousands of
troopers during their deployment in Vietnam.
The Instrument of Surrender of the Japanese after the
bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Huey Cobra Gunship powered by a single turboshaft engine, with a two-bladed main rotor and tail rotor.
21.
John Plaster autographs one of his books, Secret Commandos, for one of the visitors.
The first combat mission of the UH-1 helicopter (unofficially Huey), was during the Vietnam War.
Del Saito with Major Plaster who has made a enormous
contribution of SOG in Vietnam.
Medal of Honor Certificate presented by the President of
the United States to Robert E. Bush.
Huey missions included general support, air assault,
aeromedical evacuation and search and rescue.
John and Glenn share lots of memories which binds
them together forever.
22.
SOME OF THE BOOKS WRITTEN BY MAJ. JOHN PLASTER
AFTERWORD
By Del Saito
The past few days was incredible in many ways. To witness and share what THE SPECIAL FORCE
GROUP is doing to preserve America’s freedom was a privilege and honor.
I was able to see the true friendships shared by SF members with their experiences on and off the Battlefield; their respect and honor they continue to have for each other including their many fallen comrades; the professional training that continues in Q-Courses and everyday training; the importance to
keep the American Warrior Spirit alive; and the need to stay united as Americans.
Aside from all their razzing, joking and remarks thrown at each other, beneath all that, remains a strong
bond and appreciation for each other.
I thank Major John Plaster, SGM Skip Ettinger, SSG Glenn Uemura and the rest of the SOG members
for inviting me as their guest and truly appreciate their service to country and genuine friendship shared
with me.
RT Vermont, two hours after a heavy fight in
Laos, with Glenn Uemura (center).
Retired Full Colonel Bob Howard (right), at the 1982 Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall dedication, his medal around his neck. Today
he is America’s most highly decorated serviceman.
23.
24.
24.