FALL 04 - NEWS.PUB - 5th INFANTRY REGIMENT ASSOCIATION
Transcription
FALL 04 - NEWS.PUB - 5th INFANTRY REGIMENT ASSOCIATION
The BOBCAT Bulletin 5th INFANTRY CHAPTER of the 25th INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION Fall 2004 “I’ll Try Sir” Volume III Web Page Address: http://www.bobcat.ws/ BOBCATS AGAIN ARE ANSWERING THE CALL - SUPPORTING OUR COUNTRY IN COMBAT! Since the War of 1812 and just about every war since the 5th Infantry Regiment has repeatedly answered the call of our country when it had a need for well trained motivated heroic warriors. And today is no different with both battalions of the 5th Infantry Regiment either already engaged in combat operations or will be soon. In April the 2/5th deployed from Schofield Barracks HI to Afghanistan. They are having success and performing their mission in a manner that makes us all proud to be Bobcats. For more information on the 2/5th check pages 12, 13 and 14 and our website. In October the 1/5th will depart FT Lewis WA for a year in Iraq. And after visiting with them in September I have no doubt that they too will make everyone proud to be a Bobcat. Operation Bobcat Remember what it was like to get (or not get) mail when you were deployed to a combat zone or on a hardship tour? We need to make sure that the Bobcats of both of our battalions know that we support them, pray for them and wish them success. The 2/5th in Afghanistan has been living up to our motto “I’ll Try Sir” and their success is something we can all be proud of. And within weeks the 1/5th will be in Iraq and I have no doubt that they too will be successful and make us proud. The last two years in December I sent an E-mail out to our members with Email asking them to send letters, small gifts (“care packages”) to the soldiers living in the barracks. We had very good responses. This year I want all of you to have the opportunity to show 29 SEP - 3 OCT your support by writing and or sending something. And since each batOver a hundred are expected for our reunion in Tucson. The talion has about 700 soldiers there are more of them than we have 1/5th is sending the Soldier of The Year and the Battalion colors. If members so if anything send more than one letter etc. I know most of you miss it you will be sorry. Remember we do not charge a registra- you served with the 1/5th but I hope you will support both battalions by tion fee and in addition we provide free drinks & snacks in our hos- doing something for the brave soldiers of both. Remember they are all Bobcats! pitality room. The way “Operation Bobcat” will work is you will address your It is not too late to attend. If you are planning to attend, and we hope you will, please let me know. Of course other family members letters/packages to the Battalion chaplain with (OB) after his name. and friends are welcome. Just let me know how many & who will be When he sees (OB) he will know the purpose of the letter. As Chaplain coming with you. You can E-mail me at [email protected] or he has access to the entire battalion and also knows which soldiers might have the greatest need for a little support. call 301-387-5011. I’m still working on the details of “Operation Bobcat” and will You can reserve your room at the Inn Suites Hotel by calling 1877-446-6589 and tell them you are reserving for the 25th Infantry send you the details and addresses when I send you a new roster in Division Reunion account (#TSMGF98). Rooms are all suites & are about a month. ----------------------------------------------------------------$62.99 + tax. We will have a hospitality room that will open at 1 PM on Church Prayer List WED 29 SEP and be open THU, FRI & SAT. We will have a Membership Meeting, Memorial Service, Friday Chaplin of the 1/5th CPT Donald Carrothers requests that if you Bobcat Banquet, fragging and auction. can, to get your church to add the Bobcats to their “Prayer List”. If you The 25th Infantry Division Association (25th IDA) will also are successful in doing this he requests that you let him know because have a hospitality room and offers a SAT Banquet and a lot of inter- he wants to, “compile a list of the churches and occasionally send them esting tours. You can go horseback riding or take a jeep ride in the a short thank you note and encourage them to keep the prayer cover Desert, have lunch in Tombstone, take a tram ride in a canyon, go thick!” You can let CH Carrothers know about your church including shopping in Mexico, visit an old movie theater or visit a desert mu- the Bobcats on their prayer list by writing him at: CH (CPT) Donald S. seum or the Pima Air & Space museum. To participate in the 25th Carrothers (AB) // HHC 1-5 Infantry Regiment // Fort Lewis, WA IDA events & tours you must register with them. 98433 Final Roll Call For Tucson The Winter 2004 Newsletter will be out DEC / JAN - Send me articles, pictures and stories for publication. ADDITIONS, CHANGES & CORRECTIONS 5th Infantry Chapter President & Newsletter EditorFred Deverse (XXX) XXX-XXXX Vice President & Fragmaster Ralph Laubecher (XXX) XXX-XXXX (Please let me know when any of your information like phone # , address or Email address changes or is incorrect) Treasurer & QuartermasterJim Caudle (XXX) XXX-XXXX Secretary & Membership ChairmanRoger Smith ChaplainGeorge Maxwell (XXX) XXX-XXXX Historian & WebmasterRandy Kethcart (XXX) XXX-XXXX Bobcat Board of Directors: Consists of the President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Historian and the following; Andy Anderson Daniel Curran Ted Jagosz David Smeltz John Snodgrass Ron (Doc) Soppe Bart Stanzione ———————— Reminder ! 1. Notify me about changes in address and phone number etc. 2. Check your membership - if there is a red 04 (only or the last two numbers) on the address label your dues expires 31 DEC 04. Please renew now! - - - - - - - - Future Reunions: 2004 - Tucson AZ 29 SEP-3 OCT 2005 - Pittsburgh PA 20-24 SEP 2006 - Hawaii (Probably in OCT) $ Thanks! The information provided below is new since the last Newsletter was printed. $ Donations to the Chapter Henry, Ron - Pays for our Website Peal, Jerry …………………………$50.00 Schumacher, William H. (LTC-R) $20.00 * We are a registered non-profit organization and donations to the chapter are tax deductible. ---------------------------------- >>We donate to the 25th Infantry Division Association’s (25th IDA) Scholarship Fund every year. They name one of their Scholarships “The 5th Infantry Scholar”. Please donate to the Chapter to help us with this donation. E-mail Changes & Additions: >>> If your E-mail address changes you need to notify me if you want to continue to receive Chapter E-mails and to have your correct E-mail address on the roster Pelfrey, William "Bill" - Change whpelfrey@XXXXX Powers, Henry—Change hopnkat@XXXX Silva, Bill - Change billsilva1@XXXXX Villalpando, Phyllis - Correction phil057@XXXXX Werner, John - Change jwerner@XXXXX Whalen, Frank - Change whalen711@XXXXX Roster Changes: > If your address / phone number changes you need to notify me so that I can make the change on the roster. Your notifying us will save the Chapter money because “Address Correction” costs the Chapter money. Alexander, Roy L. - New Address XXXXXXX XXXXX, IL 61611 Barth, Thomas H. - New Address XXXX XXXXX, 22153 XXXXXX E-mail: thomas.barth@XXXXil Morgan, SGM William E. - New Address XXXXX DR #B XXXXX 13603 Murphy Jr., Johnny (Steve) - New Add. XXXX DR XXXX 29332 XXXXX Schumacher, William H. - New Address XXXX. Street #1 XXX WI 53140 Smith, Roger A. XXXX XXXXIL 62839 Soppe, Ronald "Doc" J. - New Ph. # XXXXXX Stocker, Vaughn E. - New Address XXXXX XXXX 99505 Illnesses & Deaths: 2 Henry, Ron - Had a heart valve replaced on 12 AUG. Ron is doing fine and is coming to our reunion in Tucson Loranca, Enrique “Hank” - Died on 11 SEP 04 He was in the 1st Squad, 1st Platoon in Vietnam from 3/67-3/68 and was the squad leader of the 1st squad from 12/67-2/68. (See Picture on Page 3 & E-mail on Page 7) New Members: >> Know someone you served with who is not a member of our chapter? If yes, & you know their address, phone number or Email address send it to me so we can recruit them as a member. Having others that you served with as members only makes your membership more rewarding, especially when you all come together to a reunion. Ade, Walter XXXX XXXX 62703 XXXXX9 K Co. 3rd PLT 3/5th (5th RCT) 112/53 Garcia, Roberto XXXX8 XXXXX 972.524.8654 B Co. 1/5th 7/68-3/69 Spouse: Benja >I joined the Bobcats in July 68. 17 SEP 68 I was awarded the Bronze Star with “V” device. Awarded the Purple Heart 24 MAR 69 for wounds Worked as a meat cutter for years and as a shipping clerk for a paint company for 24 years. I have 80% disability & 100 VA unemployability. > See pictures on page 5 Johnson, John E. XXXX XXXX 90810 XXXX5068 HHC Recon 5/69-4/70 Spouse: Ai Lin E-mail: jejohnson@XXXX Knepp, Curley B. XXAPO AP 96266 XXXX K Co. 5th RCT (Korea) 2/52-11/52 Spouse: Magnal E-mail: curley.knepp@XXXX >Retired after 27 1/2 years on 1 JAN 78. Held every grade from PVT to SGM and retired as a major. Served with the 1st Signal BDE in Vietnam. Had tours in Taiwan, Northern Canada, East Africa, Germany, Puerto Rica and two additional tours in Korea (JUN 53-May 54 with 15th INF REG,3rd INF DIV and 67-69 with 122nd SIG BN, 2nd INF DIV.) Still working. After retiring worked for Department of the Navy, Veteran’s Administration, Defense Logistics Agency and for the past 23 years with the Air Force Audit Agency. The Christmas Platoon Suffers A Great Loss! 1st Platoon B Company 67-68 better know as the “Christmas Platoon” is a very close knit group. Enrique “Hank” Loranca pictured below died on 11 SEP 04 - “He is greatly missed by The Christmas Platoon”. Mathis, Michael XXXX RD XXXX 48623 XXXX B Co. 11/69-4/71 E-mail: MathisMcgee@XXXXX >Nov. 69 - Cu Chi, Dau Tieng, Tay Nihn & Cambodia. 16 May 70 ambushed in Cambodia & wounded. Went to 249th Hospital in Japan, Walter Reed & Cleveland VA. In the hospital one year. Rather been back in Vietnam. Kicked around a lot—long stories. Took a long time to find some goals when things have been mutilated on your body. I survived and doing well. Hopefully I can make a reunion. McAndrews, Bruce A. XXXX XXXXX 18104 XXXXXX 1/5th 5/68-5/69 Spouse: Ann E-mail: oskarshamm@XXXX > I proudly served with the 5th Mech my whole tour of duty in Vietnam. I was awarded the Bronze Star for heroic action on Nu Ba Din. Was promoted to Sergeant and at the end of my tour supervised bunker guards at Fire Support Base Trung Lap. I worked for 27 years with the Long Island Railroad as a conductor. Was pensioned on special disability. Married 20 years & have two teenage children. Unfortunately my son has Leukemia but it has been in remission for seven years. Three KIA’s, three members and one died! >See picture on page 8. Spearl, Roger XXX XXXX XXXX B Co. 1/70-12/70 Spouse: Barbara E-mail: bsperl@XXXXX Wilbert, "Bill" Schwinn J. XXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXX A Co. 1st PLT & HHC 4/66-3/67 Spouse: Marge E-mail: pasha26287@XXXXXX Front L to R--Timothy M. Kiester (Died 5-7-96), Mike Rohdy (member)--Back L to R-Collis C. Holcombe (member), Joe Eddie Lofton (KIA 8-19-68), Colombo Phil Del Terzo (KIA 9-17-68) [Brother Sam is a member], Billy Wells (KIA 10-3-68) Picture & information from our website’s Memorial Page - It was provided by Roger Smith 3 Members’ Comments, Letters, E-mails & Information Please send me your thoughts, comments, impressions, criticisms & suggestions etc. along with pictures for “your” Bobcat Bulletin! THE GREATEST TEXAN Veterans For Peace He was the greatest Texan I have ever known. Like myself, Richard Oman was a teacher when he went to Vietnam, having taught Agriculture in Georgetown, Texas. I had trained to be a teacher before going directly from College to Vietnam. The two of us worked in the Fire Direction Center of the 4.2 Mortar Section in the 1/5 Mech of the 25th Infantry Division. Oman spoke fondly of a state championship football team. I had played on the baseball and soccer teams at Berea College. Our jobs kept us on duty around the clock. We monitored all of the radios for all the companies in the Battalion. When they had enemy contact, we prepared firing data for our mortar sections to fire in support of our troops. The heat of the day brought the re-supply convoy from CuChi, our division base camp. Ammo had to be dealt with first, breaking open cases of mortar rounds attaching the proper fuses and allotting rounds to all gun crews to prepare for future fire missions. Toward the afternoon, Oman and I would get data from 1/8 Artillery for night firing H&I's as well as plotting def cons (defense concentration) in case of an enemy attack. Lastly we plotted on our maps the night operations of all the line companies as well as observation posts and night ambush locations in addition to all ARVN units operating in our area of operation. You really get close to someone during the life and death decisions you make that affect so many others. We talked about many things in the long night hours. But mostly Oman talked about Georgetown, Texas and I told him of the hill country of Kentucky. We listened to music on armed forces radio. It signed off with the National Anthem at midnight and signed back on around 5:00 AM in the morning with Crounaur's "Good Morning Vietnam." On the evening of April 26, 1969, at Fire Support Base Patton, Omar and I had plotted all data on our maps for the night and were sitting on the hatch of the command track singing "Galveston" along with Glen Campbell on armed forces radio, one of Oman's favorite songs. It reminded him of Texas and home. At 3:30 am on the morning of April 27, 1969, the NV A began to drop mortars on our 4.2 position. Oman and I had switched sleeping places for the first time in months. I slept in his bunker and he slept outside on my cot. The first round hit Oman killing him instantly. I remember helping carry Jimmy, Mahi, and then Washington across the perimeter to the medic track. I have made that trip daily in my mind, in the surreal light from illumination rounds and blasts from incoming. When I returned to the FDC track, I realized Oman was not inside. I found him alongside the track where he had been killed instantly by a Chinese 81 mortar shell. Some will say they have found closure on the war. I have not and I am not sure I ever will. Oman was my best friend. It does haunt me at times as to why that night but never before, why Oman and not me? Like many others that served in Vietnam, there has not been a day in thirty-four years that I have not thought about Vietnam and of Oman. Someday I hope I can face going to Georgetown, Texas to visit his grave. War was brutal in 1968, 69, and 70 in the HOBO Woods, the Boi Loi's, the Citadel and the Iron Triangle. The war was also very impersonal. At first light, I packed Oman's belongings, mounted a recon track, and moved out to survey in a new patrol base, to be named Devins. Of course when I returned, Oman and the wounded had been dusted off and the war continued on. As I write this, at 03:30 in the morning thirty-four years later, I suppose I just wanted someone to remember Richard Oman and all the best he represented for America. Oman was my best friend, he died serving his Country, he was the pride of Georgetown, Texas and he was the greatest Texan I have ever known. Pat Wooton Perry County Sheriff Buckhorn, KY 41721 HHC 1/5 Mech. 25th Inf. Div Vietnam - Nov 1968 - Jan 1970 Picture from our Website’s Memorial Page Like Ralph Laubecher I too am an admirer of John Stuart Mill and, having been an arch conservative, I have had another of his quotes on my refrigerator for years: “Although it is not true that all conservatives are stupid people ...it is true that most stupid people are conservatives” Next to it I have a picture of a GI crying (perhaps?) in the embrace of another GI whose comforting him, and it reads, “Bring them home now!” I know that's the support that every single GI in Iraq wants, just as we did. Sincerely Dick Murphy— B Co. 4th PLT, 4th SQD 2/68-1/69 PS Like Tillman, who was killed ————————————— A message left on the Website’s Guestbook on 21 AUG 04. I just wanted to mention that my brother, Ricky Damschen (C Co.) was killed on this day 36 years ago and that he and the rest of you guy's have been on my mind all day. I want you guy's to know that I appreciate your sacrifices and I hope that God blesses every one of you. Very Sincerely Yours, Jay Damschen —————————————— An Email from Roy Alexander on 26 AUG 04. Just received an e mail from our son Jeff that he has arrived in Iraq. This is his second deployment with the USMC there. It really drives home (to me) how much support our men and women in harms way and family at home need…. The web site also is a blessing. Since our reunion in Indiana I have searched out and found lots of information that has answered many questions. Thanks for all you do for us. ____________________________ An E-mail from John Werner on 1 SEP 04. Dear Fred, My new email address is jwerner@XXXXXXXXXX I am now living and working with my two sons in our family business in Mexico City, which represents VeriSign in Mexico and Central America and provides a full range of security solutions for internet transactions and communications. Keep up the good work!! (See Comments on page 6) 4 Roberto Garcia’s Vietnam Experiences! Roberto was awarded a Bronze Star for heroism for action on 17 SEP 68 and a Purple Heart for wounds received on 24 MAR 69 Award of the Bronze Star Medal For Heroism Reason: For heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force: PFC Garcia distinguished himself by heroic actions on 17 SEP 1968, while serving with B Co. 1/5th INF in the republic of Vietnam. While established in their night laager position, Company B came under intense enemy attach. With complete disregard for his own safety, PFC Garcia exposed himself to intense enemy fire as he directed his squad’s fire on the advancing enemy force. His valorous actions contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission and the defeat of the enemy force. Private Garcia’s personal bravery, aggressiveness and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army. Roberto would like to locate the Bobcats pictured on this page. Anyone know where they are? Roberto Garcia & Joe Guerra - both are coming to Tucson Please contact Roberto if you can help. L to R: Jones, Johnson, Garcia and Lavon Freeman Glad I wasn’t on this track when it was damaged! 5 $ Treasurer’s Report $ Honoring One of Our Bobcat Heroes! 2nd Quarter 2004 Financial report: SP4 John L. Haines April Income: Dues Debits: 2nd Qtr Website Newsletter & Postage Bank - CD Total $ XX.00 $ XXX.00 $XXX.00 $XXX.70 MAY Income - Dues: $ XX.00 $ XXX.00 DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY Headquarters, United States Army Vietnam APO San Francisco 96375 June Income: Dues ter $ 71.00 Donation Total $ XXX.00 Quartermas$ XX.00 $ XXX.00 (Comments from page 4) John Werner Co. A and HHQ 1/5th 19671968 (Lieutenant) ____________________________ Dennis McDonough has been on a mission searching for pictures for our KIA’s listed on our Website’s Memorial Page. He has found us many pictures. In his search he has made contact with family members of our KIA. On 1 SEP 04 he got this E-mail. THANK YOU THANK YOU for remembering Bernie. I, and my family appreciates it to no end !! I will pass your note onto his brothers and sisters. Your picture was astounding! To see the equipment you guys drove in sends chills up my spine. Doesn't seem like a lot of protection. I see the picture was taken in 67 before Bernie arrived in Vietnam. If you have anymore pictures of the areas you were in, please pass them on. I would love to see them !! Again, THANK YOU for sending your note. Kathy (Mattson) Houser (Bernard C. Mattson C Co. KIA 12 Jan 68) ___________________________ Roy Alexander asks if anyone knows if there was a Peter Keane in Alpha Co. in 1968-69? If you can answer this question contact Roy at mikey@XXXXXXXX or 309-XXX-XXXX ___________________________ In an E-mail on 1 SEP Carl Amedio said. I'm the guy who posted the photos of Weaver. I was with him when he was killed. I don't think I ever knew his first name since we went by last names or nicknames. I always thought that Richard Allen was odd, because I to, thought Weaver Mexican-American, but Richard Allen GENERAL ORDERS 20 April 1968 NUMBER 1839 AWARD OF THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CROSS HAINES, JOHN L. SPECIALIST FOUR E-4 UNITED STATES ARMY HHC, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry, 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, APO 96225 Awarded: Distinguished Service Cross Date of Action: 6 March 1968 Theater: Republic of Viet Nam Reason: For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam: Specialist Four Haines distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 6 March 1968 as medical aidman for an infantry platoon conducting a sweep and secure mission near Hoc Mon. As his unit moved into a dense woodline, it was subjected to intense small arms, automatic weapons, and anti-tank rocket fire from an enemy force of unknown size. Five members of his platoon were seriously wounded by the initial burst of savage hostile fire. Fearlessly exposing himself to the withering fusillade, Specialist Haines raced forward to assist his stricken comrades. With bullets striking all around him, he courageously moved from one casualty to another, administering first aid. Specialist Haines was hit while treating one of the soldiers, but disregarded his wound and continued his life saving mission. Observing his platoon sergeant severely wounded and lying in an open area raked by enemy machine gun fire, he rushed to the man and began attending him. Specialist Haines was instantly killed by the machine gun fire while applying the last bandage to his fallen comrade. His gallant and determined actions in close combat saved the lives of several fellow soldiers. Specialist Four Haines' extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. Authority: By direction of the President, under the provisions of the Act of Congress, ap proved 25 July 1963. Weaver is only one of two guys on the wall with that last name. We were best of friends, and he was my "Rabbi," taught me how to survive. And this may or may not be pertinent, just coincidence, because Weaver said almost the same thing to me--that he wasn't going home (that he'd be killed). I remember being very upset with that. When it did happen there was nothing he could have done to prevent it, unlike many goofs who just didn't give a shit about themselves or their comrades. The one fact that sticks out is that "my" Weaver was from CA., so now I'm at a loss on how to find his correct name. Thanks for the info. really appreciate it. Carl. _____________________________ In an E-mail written 3 SEP to Denis McDonough. Denis, Thanks for writing, this is so special to me! Through the virtual wall and the Bobcats, I've been able to email with men who were with my uncle when he was KIA. He wasn't there long and not many knew him very well, but one man remembered the day very well. Each and every one of you are very special to me and you're all heroes!! Thank you, Denis for fighting for us, for giving up the life that a young man should be able to experience for America. I hope you don't mind that I've forwarded this email to my Aunt Darlene, she was Chester's wife when he was killed, and always (See Comments on page 7) 6 Connecting with Family of two of our KIA’s This past July Randy Kethcart while traveling through Tennessee & Kentucky met with family members of two of our KIA’s. In the picture to the left Randy poses next to the commemorative marker in Villa Hills KY with three of Ronald Niewahner’s sisters. L to R are Gayle, Millie & Renee Niewahner. Ronald of Ludlow KY while with B Company was killed on13 DEC 68. Randy also had breakfast with Patty Alley widow of Douglas Dwight Alley shown with him in the picture on the right. Douglas with A Company of Newark DE was killed 26 FEB 66. There are pictures of both Ronald and Douglas on our website’s Memorial Page. (Comments from page 6) my very dear friend. My family is Cherokee & Choctaw, and I again say thanks, in our native Cherokee tongue..... WADO! Jana Jordan Shaw -----------------------------------Jana and Denis: First of all let me say thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for getting in touch with me. I have been to the wall in D. C. many times but have never seen any notes of anything left specifically for Chester. I got 1 letter from PFC. Randall Evans from Ohio just after Chester was killed saying he would tell me everything about that day (May 3rd) but when I responded Randall was evidently KIA almost immediately after he wrote to me. ---------------------------------------Denis - Did you train with Chester there at Ft. Polk? Go to Tiger School with him, I was there almost every weekend. I only missed 1 time I think because everyone was quarantined to post. The weekend before Chester wouldn't tell a soul he was sick as a dog -- 104 temp. He faked it to get off post so I could get a room and take care of him. It scared me to death because he was so sick. Oh well, any stories you could tell me would be much appreciated. Thanks again. Write or call anytime. Darlene Bailey Jordan Townsend (972) XXX_XXX or (214) XXX_XXXX -------------------------------------If anyone can provide some information to Darlene about Chester’s time in Vietnam please contact her. Chester Jordan from Arlington TX served in B Co. and arrived in Vietnam 7 APR 67 & was killed on 3 May 67. _______________________________ Hank Loranca Dies In an E-mail from Roger Smith on 13 SEP to the Christmas Platoon he said: Christmas Platoon--I have spoken with Hank's wife Marie, and his son Derek, just a short while ago. Hank had returned to the hospital, at his choice, when he passed 7 away Saturday. The family is very appreciative of the phone calls and mailings that Hank had received lately. Hank loved it!! Dusty Edwards had just sent Hank some photographs that the family posted on the walls in Hank's hospital room, which made Hank's day!! At Hank's request, a special fund is being setup at the funeral home for those who wish to donate, in lieu of the American Cancer Society, to The Christmas Platoon to help us continue as a group. Hank's remains were cremated. …. Full military rites will be performed at 4 P.M.. …. The Loranca Family will always be a part of The Christmas Platoon. I have asked Allan Azary, our treasurer, to use some of the money we have to send flowers from The Christmas Platoon. I'm sure the family would appreciate cards sent to Marie Loranca. Here's to Hank (I always called him Enrique), a great guy, a good soldier, and a great friend. SALUT!!!! Smitty ____________________________ (See Comments on page 12) “The First Six Months” Jerry Gogolin sent the copy you see on this page. In a note he said, “Enclosed is a copy of the original search and destroy missions. The handout, actually came from headquarters in 1966. I suppose we were “just keeping score”. “Class of 1965-66” ----------------------------------------------------------------------- OPERATIONS ---You can read the top part. A list of the operation, their location, type and date is included: “Bobcat Track” / Cu Chi - Cay Sop / Clear & Hold (30 JAN-4 FEB 66) “Search Out” / Boa Cap / Search & Destroy (14 FEB 66) “Clean Sweep” / Phuoc Vinh Ninh / Search & Destroy (22-24 FEB 66) “Waikiki” / Xon Moi / Search & Destroy (3-9 MAR 66) “Glendale” / Ph Biep-Balancie Plantation / Search & Destroy (10 MAR) “Honolulu” / Boa Trai-Xon Mia / Search & Destroy / (13-19 MAR 66) “Gardena” Boa Cap-Filhol Plantation / Search & Destroy (24 MAR 66) “Circle Pines” / Filhol-Liocara Plantation / Search & Destroy (30 MAR 5 APR 66) “Kahuku” / Phuoc Vinh Ninh / Search & Destroy (7 APR 66) “Kaena” / Liocara Plantation / Search & Destroy (12-14 APR 66) “Kahala” / Ho Bo Woods - Trung Lap - Thai MY / Search & Destroy (16-21 APR 66) “Lihue” / Trang Bang - Truong Mit / Clear & Hold (2-12 May 66) “Wahiawa / Boi Loi Woods / Search & Destroy (15-27 May 66) “Makiki” / Xon Mia - Tan My / Search & Destroy (3-8 JUN 66) Ann, daughter and Bruce McAndrews Pictures of Two More KIA’s From Roger Robinson Charles Rehberger, (C Co. KIA - 2 MAR 68) he was my first squad leader when I got there in Oct, 67, we were on Track 33 in company C. Chas was a great guy and he really spent a lot of time and effort with any of us new guys. On the web site history page it says he had left the field to become a Company Clerk and volunteered to return to the field just prior to being killed. That is not quite true, he was selected (I think by Captain Theologis) to join a "Division Pacification Team" and work out of Cu Chi. He told me just prior to 2 May 68 that he came back to the field because he missed his friends and felt he was needed. ----------------------------------------------------------Dave Stremler, (C Co. KIA - 1 May 68) a squad leader in the 4th platoon. He was hit with shrapnel from the 1st round of a mortar attack and died instantly from massive head wounds, I was probably within 20' of him when he was hit. Also wounded from this first round was Dave Mostek, a track driver from Chicago, he had shrapnel wounds that went through his back and out his stomach, he never came back to the field and we never heard from him again. Stremler was from Michigan of Dutch decent, He even spoke Dutch in his sleep. I remember him as being very religious and devoted to his mother, he wrote her almost every day. --------------------------------------------------------Photo of Roger Robinson that was used in the movie "In Country". If you happened to see the movie, the photo was on a bulletin board just prior to the start of a Viet Nam Veterans welcome home dance in Mayfield, KY. Bruce Willis was in the movie. It's a long story how my picture happened to be in this movie, if we meet in Tucson I will tell you about it. Russ Taylor was the reason it was used in the film. ----ACCOMPLISHMENTS ---VC KILLED: 663 (322 body Count; 341 est.). We have killed or captured 14.3 VC for every “Bobcat” lost. VC CAPTURED: 53 WEAPONS CAPTURED: 176 VC LOSSES: 46,875 SA Ammo, 17 mortar ammo, 613 AP Mines, 57 AT mines, 714 grenades, 826 boobytraps, 83 rockets & AT rds, 2,327 lbs TNT, 412,412 lbs rice, 1541 lbs clothing, 130 bolts cloth, 183 tunnels, 311 bunkers, 14 fortified bases, 101,750 lbs peanuts, 3,500 lbs sorghum, 4,000 lbs wax, 22 gal. medicine, 357 lbs surgical equipment and misc. equipment & spare parts The “BOBCAT” have been in-country for 135 days as of 8 JUN 66, of which 111 days have been spent in contact with the Viet Cong and 98 days on combat operations of company size or larger. Please send us pictures of KIA’s that you might have 8 B Company - 2nd Platoon - February 1970 - 13 Identified This picture was in the Summer Bobcat Bulletin asking if anyone knew who was in the picture. Through the efforts of Randy Kethcart & others we can now identify 13 of them. 1. Washington, 2. David Helsel (KIA), 3. James Piergossi (Pie), 4. Earl Weekes, 5. Smith (Smitty), 6. Clyde Lawrence (KIA), 7. Don Probasco, 8. Tom Craig, 9. Darryl Green, 10. Mike Mathis (Tiny) 11. Bill Silva, 12. LeBeau and 13. Dennis Pocica (Polack) B Company - 3rd Platoon - February 1970 The picture above is from Ralph Laubecher’s scrapbook. Ralph was B Company’s commander at the time. I took the picture from our Website’s picture page where there are pictures of each of the platoons and of the headquarters group. Are you in the picture or do you know the names of someone in the picture? If yes, contact Ralph and let him know. 9 1/5th Deploying To Iraq -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “America's most recent Greatest Generation” What An Honor! Fred, Greetings to you and the rest of the 5th Infantry Association. I know CSM Vic Mercado has passed along much of our final predeployment news, but I thought it appropriate to send a short Commander's update on 1st Battalion's readiness and final deployment activities and a few personal comments on these men-America's most recent Greatest Generation. Were ready to begin deploying 1-5 IN soldiers to combat for the first time since Vietnam. Our initial flow of advance personnel will depart Fort Lewis within the next several weeks and be joined by the remainder of the Bobcat's in northern Iraq by mid October. Our soldiers are trained and ready-they take pride in the accomplishments of their battalion ancestors from Lundy's Lane, Mexico, the western frontier, to the jungles and hilltops of Vietnam. They watch news of their Second Battalion brothers in Afghanistan fighting on America's initial front on Terrorism and stand ready to take their place as proud veterans as we write the newest chapter of our regiment's combat history in Iraq. I spend a lot of time watching, training, and talking with these soldiers. As you'd expect, and probably remember from your own service, each has his own views on this war. However, as United State's soldiers throughout our heritage, they follow orders and are prepared to do their duty not because of individual political beliefs but because of a common bond of brother hood and immense pride in this unit, this Army, and this nation. I am deeply humbled to serve and lead them. Like soldiers from other units, today's Bobcats come from across this nation. Their names and faces would remind our membership of their own service: Rivera from New York, Torres from Puerto Rico, Nelson from Minnesota, Davis from Georgia, Bachl from South Carolina and every other state in between. In this season of political campaigns, these men remind me daily that our service is not to a party or administration; its to a Constitution and a nation. I believe with absolute certainty that the US Army has never put a more trained and ready outfit into harm's way-these men will serve with courage, compassion, intelligence and a knowledge that their sacrifice will help the Iraqi people to a true freedom; and in that effort make us all more secure. Our equipment (what little we'll take as we're falling-in on another Stryker battalion's vehicles) has already shipped. Our soldier's took advantage of a well deserved leave to visit with family and friends before our Most-Interesting-Year. Just this past week we completed our final block of platoon level collective training and are now focused on final personnel preparations and turning our barracks over to the installation. In sum-all we can do here has been done and we're ready to get going with what lies ahead. As I said before, we're undoubtedly the best trained Army in our history. With certainty, we'll be the most well connected with family and friends. Troops will have access to e-mail, phones, and a myriad of services to keep them tied into to the goings-on on the homefront. They'll receive mail and packages from loved ones and neighbors. We hope to offer frequent updates to the Association newsletter to keep the membership tied into to today's warriors. The Association has been and continues to be a great friend of this battalion. I thank each member in advance for their thoughts and prayers for today's Bobcats, both those currently in Afghanistan and those of us soon to be in Iraq. Commanding soldiers is the highest privilege. Commanding Bobcats is both a privilege and an honor. Thanks again for all your support and prayers. Respectively, On 7 September 04 the 1st Brigade “Lancers” of the 25th Infantry Division stationed at FT Lewis WA held a “Deployment Ceremony”. Since the 1/5th Infantry Battalion is part of this brigade our members were invited to attend this ceremony and at least six of us did. What is interesting is that many in the Battalion to include the BN CDR & CSM kept saying how honored they were to have us there. Somehow I felt honored to be invited to be there. Seeing the entire brigade proudly assembled on the parade field was an impressive sight. It was also a very sobering sight knowing that these nearly 4,000 highly trained, skilled and motivated warriors would soon be in a very dangerous Iraq helping the United States with its mission. Todd McCaffrey Lieutenant Colonel, Infantry Commanding Colors being cased - next stop Iraq! Photo courtesy Chaplain CPT Carrothers Myself and Honorary (and retired) Command Sergeant Major Ray Barrett were asked to participate in the ceremony by “casing” the 1/5th’s colors. Reception & Stryker Rides After the Ceremony everyone was invited to the brigade headquarters for refreshments and rides on a Stryker. This combat vehicle rides really well - better than some pickup trucks & SUV’s. Impressive Stryker Everyone I spoke with had nothing but praise for the Stryker and it seems well deserved. I spoke with BDE CSM Du who is with the first Stryker Brigade that has (See Deployment on page 11) 10 (Deployment from page 10) been in Iraq for almost a year. He reported that they have only lost one soldier to enemy fire. And that loss occurred when a Stryker was hit by seven RPG’s. The first 6 broke down a part of the RPG screen and a 7th got through resulting in one death. CSM Du further said that the enemy has learned how difficult the Stryker is to defeat and are leaving it alone. As a result most of their casualties have been support personnel like cooks etc. who are being attacked in their light skinned vehicles like humvees & trucks. Bobcats standing tall & proud Impressive Bobcat Warriors If you spend any time with these new generation of Bobcats you come away being so impressed. Impressed with their motivation, training, skills and dedication. And they are ready to go and do their part for their country. In fact some were kind-of angry that they did not earlier. After meeting & getting to know so many my thoughts will be with them every day - wishing them a successful safe deployment. You can see the RPG screen on the Stryker A cannon gun salute to the departing L to R: Fred Deverse, CSM-R Ray Barrett, Jerry Peal, Dennis Luiz, Roy Kirk & Jim Bechtel Two Great Command Sergeant Majors Ray Barrett & Victor Mercado Picture taken in the battalion classroom. The wall behind them is filled with awards & trophies won by the BN along with many pictures of Bobcats throughout history. To keep up to date with the 1/5th’s activities check out the page titled “The 1/5th Infantry in Iraq” on our Website at: http:// www.bobcat.ws/iraq.htm As information is received it will be posted there. The 16 who were inducted as new NCO’s at a ceremony on 8 SEP. 11 buildings - all while maintaining security. "There was no hesitation," said Staff Sgt. Lamont Williams, ~ 1st platoon, squad leader. "They were flowing in just like they were trained. " The Soldiers have rehearsed the strategies they'll need to survive' and succeed In Iraq continuously for months in varying situations. This mission tested their marksmanship, teamwork, physical fitness and transition into a more urban environment. "This is like one final polishing before we send the unit off to do what it's paid to do," said Lt. Col. Todd McCaffrey, the battalion commander. "I know my Soldiers are prepared to go to Iraq - there's no question in my mind," he said, "and really, I know there's no question in their minds." Soldiers from Company C, 1st BN., 5th INF enter a building during training at Leschi Town. The Soldiers simulated securing a perimeter, clearing buildings and detaining insurgents. The exercise culminated 18 months of training for 1st BDE, 25th INF DIV. EXERCISE CULMINATES 18 MONTHS OF PREPARATION FOR IRAQ Spc. Sarah Wilkins 1st Corps Public Affairs "Friendlies coming in, friendlies coming in," shouted a Soldier as he guided his team into a building where fellow troops were already sweeping the perimeter for insurgents. Less than two months before deploying to Iraq, a platoon of Soldiers moved on foot and in Stryker vehicles through a realistic looking town Tuesday night where they simulated securing a perimeter, clearing buildings' and detaining suspected Iraqi insurgents. The exercise culminated 18 months of training that 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division Soldiers have practiced, and the Soldiers executed those skills at Leschi Town when they encountered opposition role players using paintball as ammunition. The live rounds they were shooting back at us made me really think about what it would be like being shot at in Iraq," said Spc: Juan A Stryker rolls towards Leschi. ---------------------------------------------This picture was scanned from a newspaper (The FT Lewis Ranger) & you can’t see all the antennas but I counted at least seven. Cardenas, 1st platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st BDE., 25th Inf. Div. "I just kept my head down, tried not to get hurt and pulled security to the rear, "said Cardenas. "I've worked with these guys for the past two years, and I'm pretty confident. Hopefully, I'll come back alive. "His platoon of about 44 men with four Stryker vehicles was the first of the battalion's 14 platoons to go through the week long exercise. Every six hours, a platoon will take off from its base and immediately operate in a tactical environment while participating in a live-fire range, traveling in a convoy and securing Leschi Town. "The bottom line, men - there are people out there who are trying to kill you," said Capt. Ron Schow, Co. C commander, during the after-action review. "You have got to maintain security 100 per-cent of the time." They'll soon be securing their position at all times when Soldiers from 1st Brigade leave in October to replace 3rd Brigade troops in Iraq who have served there for the last nine months. "Our Soldiers are excited and ready for the deployment because we have been training for a long time," said Col. Robert Brown, commander of 1st Bde., 25th Inf. Div. "We are proud to do the mission." Shouting commands and information to each other, the Soldiers at Leschi Town accomplished their mission of blocking the road, searching vehicles, stopping suspicious Iraqis, and entering and clearing 12 CPL Michael Mitchell 1/5th INF waits for an assault on a hotel where he and others are protecting an Iraqi troublemaker (Comments from page 7) Support House Bill HR - 4637 In an E-mail from O. J. Brooks he reports: Fred, you may want to include this in your next newsletter to our members to seek support of this House Bill. This Bill (H. R. 4637) "Combat Military Medically Retired Veteran's Fairness Act of 2004" will pay additional benefits to those of us who were retired from the military with less than 20 years of service who were disabled due to combat wounds & awarded the Purple Heart. We were forgotten in the last Bill but now someone has seen fit to include those of us in the above. Any questions give me a shout. O. J. Brooks - 301-XXX-XXXX or ojb9600@XXXXXXXX 2/5th In Afghanistan --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Humvee + Explosion = What you see Pictures from the incident in which CPL Jorge De leon B Co. 2/5th lost his right leg in Afghanistan. The picture on the left shows the armored Humvee and the other picture shows the hole left in the ground from the explosion. Hopefully Jorge’s rehabilitation at Walter Reed Army Medical Center has been successfully completed and he is back in Hawaii where he wants to be. Looking at the picture of what remains of the Humvee it is amazing that Jorge lost only a leg. EOD Searching the crater in the road. Task Force 2-5 “Bobcats” Newsletter Update from Afghanistan Aloha from Tarin Kowt, Uruzgan Province, Afghanistan! Amazingly ALL of our equipment is now inside FOB Ripley, FOB Anaconda, or at the Rear CP in Kandahar! It only took two months to arrive. Things have changed drastically in the past month. In all locations, Bobcat Soldiers are working hard to improve their living space. Everyone has a large tent and increased space. Tier-three tents are complete at FOB Ripley and we are arranging for the materials at FOB Anaconda. The Bobcat SHANTY TOWN is torn down and we are inside the new accommodations. There are problems right now with power distribution so not all of the tents have lights or A/C due to insufficient power or broken generators…always something to work on! More generators are scheduled to arrive soon and we will resolve the power issues. The past month has been interesting and challenging. Despite all of the hardship and confusion, the one constant has been the Bobcat spirit…they are physically and mentally tough, ready for whatever mission is assigned. We still maintain five locations in Afghanistan. Rear CP operations continue to improve in Kandahar. 3rd Platoon Bushmasters remain in Kabul but will be relieved by 2nd Platoon in the near future to conduct Coalition Forces Command (CFC-A) security missions. B Co is doing a great job with this mission and it will become increasingly important as we approach the National Elections. 3rd Platoon C Company remains in Dey Rawoud to work with Special Operations personnel and Afghan National Army Forces. Recent activity in their area of operations has been handled extremely well with no casualties to Bobcats or SOF. The Taliban have not been so lucky and even were bold enough to come to the FOB hours after an engagement to seek medical treatment for their wounds…obviously with a different story…we treated them and also provided them a ride to the nearest detainment facility. The remainder of Cobra is on a mission now with a TBD return to FOB Ripley. Quickstrike at Khas Uruzgan continues to occupy FOB Anaconda. Recently they have had increased levels of ACM/Taliban activity that resulted in one destroyed HMMWV and the only injury was a perforated ear drum. Bushmasters are currently conducting operations out of FOB Ripley in Tarin Kowt. Recent successes in cache recovery decreased the number and type of weapons/munitions available to the ACM/Taliban. Enemy activity has increased slightly in the past two weeks. That means that there have been an increased number of incidents. It does not mean that we are in any more danger than before and it does not mean that the enemy is effective in his attacks. Remember that your Soldiers are professionals…they are disciplined, well trained and well led. They are doing a superb job here in a difficult and austere environment. (See 2/5 on page 14) 13 (2/5 from page 13) Task Force Bobcat continues to work hard, 7 days a week, and untold hours per day. Be proud of them. I know I am! Afghanistan remains a dangerous place. We are not taking undue risk but constantly face the realities of a developing Afghanistan. I am confident in our Soldiers’ abilities. Their determination, dedication, courage and their character are simply amazing. We WILL succeed in our assigned missions in the Global War on Terrorism-Operation Enduring Freedom. TF Bobcat IS making a real difference every day here in Afghanistan and in our security at home. I want to thank each of you all for your support and encouragement here and at home. We have had some difficult situations arise across the battalion and you have done a great job in helping the affected Soldiers and families. You are a great strength to each other and everyone here, and we deeply appreciate all you do on our behalf. God bless. Aloha and Ahui Hou! Bobcat 6/Bobcat 7 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The above is page one of an eight page newsletter from the 2/5th in Afghanistan. Each Company & section of the battalion to include attached units report on their activities in this newsletter. You can read the other seven pages on our website’s page titled the “2/5th In Afghanistan” at: http://www.bobcat.ws/afghanistan.htm Check this page frequently for the latest information as it is received. See the letter on page 15 from one of the Bobcats in Afghanistan. A Company In Action Photos of A Company 2/5th in Afghanistan. In the top/left photo CPT Andy Brosnan A Co. Commander with a group of Afghan children around him. It looks to me like he is looking up a word to help him communicate. In the photo above the soldier in the Humvee is SGT Suelo from the AT PLT and the other one is SPC Jeffrey the first PLT RTO. Photos courtesy of Deb Sellers - BN CDR LTC Seller’s wife 14 A Letter From Afghanistan -------------------------------------------11 August, 2004 Greetings, First, good luck with my penmanship, (lack of)! More importantly, thank you! Thank you and your family for the sacrifices you have made to provide me this opportunity to serve. I am sitting in the Forward Operating Base cracking a few almonds that somehow followed me from the neighboring village. The town to our north is Tarin Kowt about 75 miles north of Kandahar. It’s a cool 102 degrees today but we can tell it is cooling off. The best we can hope for is no heavy winds. We are in a large bowl about 20 miles across, surrounded by 9,000-10,000 foot mountains. Oh, and our base, it sits in 6 inches of fine powdery dirt (moon dust). You would be proud of the living conditions….one man woodland camouflage tents, dressed right, in a desert tan area. We are in the final phase of construction for the GP medium tents and should move into them by 20 August. C Company flew out on a mission this morning where a few UN people have been getting ambushed. B Company was patrolling Tarin Kowt yesterday and discovered a large cache of arms and ammo. The 3’s truckload is being down loaded now with 2 more expected. EOD will have fun blowing this one! A Company is currently occupying a company outpost 20 miles to our northeast. They have effectively shut the door on an enemy movement corridor. As for myself, I just left C Company as the 1SG and am currently running HHC, the additional duty of camp commandant falling right in my lap. So as I keep the mess hall running and hire locals to haul trash and burn poop, I wanted to let you know things have not changed much. So as we continue to “write another story” I wanted to tell you “Thanks” again for all your service and continued support and prayers. Have a Bobcat Day. I’ll try sir! Park Named After Bobcat Hero! Melrose Park IL (near Chicago) on 28 AUG dedicated a park in the honor of Olaf Tommy Olsen. Tommy served with distinction with B Company 1/5th in Vietnam and was Killed-in-Action on 11 MAR 70. Tommy grew up just four houses from the park. As testimony to his dedicated service Tommy was awarded at least nine medals to include a Silver Star and Bronze Star during his short (less then two years) stay in the Army. Randy Kethcart attended and spoke at the dedication. He also presented a wreath that was provided by the Chapter. J. S. Keith HHC TF 2-5 INF APO, AE 09355 ------------------------------------------- As it was so appropriately stated in the dedication ceremony, “This beautiful park is dedicated to Tom Olsen because he was an ordinary person until he was called on to do extraordinary things. This memorial reflects the appreciation of our entire community and represents not only a tribute to Tommy, but to all the young men and women who have served this great country.” Go to our website www.bobcat.ws for a lot of additional information and pictures. Wasn’t it interesting to see that when it comes to life in a combat zone as 1SG Keith said, “things have not changed much”. If someone wants to write to him you can use the address above. However do not put any rank on the address on the envelope. 15 Notice: If the address label on this newsletter has a “04” at the end of your name, your membership expires at the end of this year. You need to complete the form below and mail in your renewal. Do it now before you forget. Membership Application 5th Infantry Chapter 25th Infantry Division Association (Please Print) Name: ______________________________________________________________________________ _____ New Member (Please complete information below) Active Duty see * below _____ Renewal (Complete only items that need changed) Street: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City: ___________________________________________________ Phone Number: __________________________________________ State: ___________ Zip: ____________________________________ Wife’s Name: ___________________________________________________ Unit (BN/CO/PLT etc.): _____________________________________________________ Dates of Service with 5th Infantry: _____________________________ E-Mail Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Membership: 1 Year - $10.00 (Please circle your selection) 2 Years - $19.00 3 Years - $28.00 5 Years - $45.00 10 Years - $75.00 Lifetime - $100.00 (Must be at least 55 years old) * Active Duty Soldiers - $5.00 per year Make checks payable to “ 5th Infantry Chapter” and mail this application to: 1 - 3 year membership circle the one you want: -Decal as shown -Decal without the word “Survivor” 5th Infantry Chapter 1501 Baychester AVE Norfolk VA 23503 We have 2 decals. One is shown above and the other is just like the one above without the word “Survivor” on it. When you renew / join for 1, 2 or 3 years you will receive free a 11” X 3” decal as shown above. Five, 10 or lifetime payment will receive one of each. U.S. Postage PAID Swanton MD 21561 Permit # 3 Non-Profit Org. Address Service Requested 5th Infantry Chapter of the 25th Inf. Div. Assoc. 138 Glenrise Road Swanton MD 21561-2317 16