Updated: 21 December 2014
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Updated: 21 December 2014
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would like to hear from anybody than was in con thien on may 8 1967 I was on the squad that when to help delta co. i think most of the men died ,i was with a/1/4 cpl green was my team leader
Have you ever talked with a Marine named Tag Guthrie? He was there on the 8th of May. We’ve been having reunions for 15 years. Are you in touch with Larry Bosko? Let me know if you need more info on any of this, especially the reunion info. Semper Fi
I believe my pap Michael E. Cappy was with you.
Marine,
Tag Guthrie here what do you need to know about that that fable night. Do you still reside in Austin TX? I know you were wounded on the 23 of March when you went with Third Plt to rescue/retrieve the downed Helo. I will be in Schertz on 6 April 2016. I will provide you as much information as you want to know. in fact I will have one marine you will meet that was wounded with you.
I can put you in contact with the Amtrac commander and a couple of Marines who did survive that night. In fact I will have a couple of Marines with me who was there. In fact I am visiting four other Marines who was there at Con Thien. I was not there that night because I was on R & R.
I am on the road for two weeks starting 10 Jan 2016
Send me you phone number and I will contact you
R/S
Tag Guthrie Capt. Retired USMC
Antonio,
I Jim Amendolia, Weapons Platoon Commander and later Platoon Commander 2nd Rifle platoon. I was there with you just before you were medically evacuated, your were sitting on a box of some type and still bleeding. You are right, most of the men in the two amtracs were killed. Two, Sgt Amos and Cpl Leija died of wounds before reaching medical attention. Also remember picking up Cpl Green’s body. I always wondered what happened to you since I saw you the following morning. I am very happy that you made it out of there and still living today.
I remember the night well like a nightmare that has stuck with me for 50 years. Shortly after the 8th we lost a lot more men incluting Lt Roach, Capt Corcoran, Lt Lamson, PFC Del Ray Jocobs, Cpl Kreh, the list is very long. A Company suffered 20 KIA that night. I have lost touch with most of the guys but did hear about Sgt Alverez who was one of my squad leaders.
My email address is jimamendolia@gmail.com and would love to hear from you.
Jim
Ralph McKay was with A 1/4 that night. wounded also. He is living in Muskegon MI I know he is on facebook and he has contacted a couple of his squad from that night. I was with Golf 3-12, your arty unit.
Hi Antonio,
If your still looking, my name is Jim Rosa, E3, 0331. I was there before and just after the NVA overran part of the outpost. We were down in Phu Bi that night and were brought up to reinforce the next day. My unit spent some time getting rid of their body parts after the attack and for as long as it took to get rid of the live ones.
Hope your ok,
Jim
My grandfather’s name is Michael Cappy. I don’t know if you’ll see this message but I believe he was in that same very squad.
I believe my grandfather Michael E. Cappy was with you.
i was there Dave Lovewell 402 768 3441
I was there and I was WIA 12May1967.
WE were both In Alpha. I also was wounded on May 12- by rocket fire-you?? we have had some preveious contact but I have lost your email mine is dl34626@superiorinet.net
Denzel,
My name is Jim Amendolia, Platoon Commander of Weapons Platoon and later platoon commander of 2nd platoon both of A company. I saw the note to Antonio Castor and saw your posting.
I was there that night with the 2nd platoon that night.
My name is James A. Greenough, I was Delta 1/4 senior Corpsman from late Nov. 1966 until 11 June 1967. Does anyone know where HM2 Doc Roger Hawkins is? He was A/1/4 senior corpsman from Nov 1966 until after I returned to CONUS, 11 June 1967!! I was D/1/4 senior corpsman and we both reported to 1/4 on the same day shortly after Thanksgiving 1966 at Phu Bai!! My phone # (928) 308-0656, my address is 1791 W. Escondido Trail, Chino Valley, Arizona, 86323. E-MAIL ADDRESS hmcgreenough@live.com
Looking for members of Alpha Co from 1976 to 1979.
I am looking for HM2 Roger Hawkins, he was senior company corpsman of I/3/3, in July 1966. G/2/26 relieved his position in the outer perimeter of Da Nang in early July 1966. I was the senior corpsman with G/2/26 at that time. We both were transferred to 1/4 a few days after thanksgiving 1966 and reported into 1/4 together. He became senior corpsman for A/1/4 and I senior corpsman for D/1/4. My cell phone is (928) 308-0656 I would like to get in touch with him! Anyone with info on him, please call!!
HM3 Herbert Anderson..(Mobile, Alabama) I was there on 5/8/67 and was slightly wounded. I remember Hawkins well. I was like #2 corpsman under him I was in A 1/4 !st Platoon. I also remember Sgt.s Amos and Collin. Amos was one of those killed in the Amtrac trying to relieve Delta Co. on 5/8/67
Rodger Hawkins was my dad. He passed away in the VA hospital in Waco, TX in 2009 from early onset dementia. I’ve been in touch with Doc Greenough and would like to hear from you too. My email is samhawk77@yahoo.com
1970 to 1971 A co.1/4 2nd plt 3rd mar div…..okinawa.uss greyback(submarine)
I was with C 1/4 from September 67 to February 68 when I went to 3 CAG. I can only remember 2 names from then L/Cpl Parker (fire team Leader) and Ronald (RAT) A Tingley. We were at Phu Bai, Gio Lihn, The washout, and all along the DMZ
You need to contact Byron Moore. He is the un-official historian for Charlie Co. Get in touch with me, and I’ll give you his contact info.
I am looking for a Randy Kock or Parnell Borge who were to 1/4 in 29 palms, CA later they were sent to Hawaii
I was at Con Thien 8 May 67 I was in the amtrac that was hung up in the wire..937-728-2404 call or text me …. anyone know Gilbert Sanchez
I was also in the amtrac and was hit by explosive projectile, assume a recoilless round. We were outside the perimeter and not aware of this until I released the front hatch. We to refuge under a twin-fourty and the amtrac. Eventually we worked our way over wire.
Ralph Mckay
mckaryralph@yahoo.com
Pt ventura “alpha 1/4. Delta 1/3 68/69
Qaung-tri. Dong-Ha …cam-lo. Hill 881 you called me chico. Recon sniper… If you remember me please call 805-332-1284
Just need to talk to my brothers….
interesting to see the pictures…on page 6 titled Hill 69 Robbie and some Docs…I was one of them A1/4 2nd plt …on right me” doc speed ” jim rittman next in the middle
Denny Gardner,fellow squatting I don’t know nor the fellow shirtless on the far left.
Appreciate your work..believe it was in 1966..before we went to Phu Bai…etc.Hope your around to get this message..God Bless..Doc.
Jim, were you on Hill 69 around Feb. 26, 1966 when the platoon at the bottom of the hill was attacked? If so, we have something in common. I was C-1-4. My platoon was Battalion Reserve that night. We humped in from the highway and reinforced the platoon that night. After the mortars and RR’s there were 3 marines wounded, and the Lt. was KIA. In the morning we pulled about 20+ dead VC out of the paddies and wire. After daylight we humped up that trail to just below CP on top of Hill 69, You guys put up quite a roar when you saw us. Would like to hear from you- Semper Fi
My name is Larry Whiteside. For any guys coming aboard the assoc. I was at Con Thien in Alpha Co 1/4 about May 6th 1967. I remember the Amtracts. I also remember getting over run. My hole was about 4 or 5 ft away from the Duster that was opened up like a can. I was green as hell. SSgt. Britt was our Platoon Sgt. Cpl. Dan Sword was my squad leader at the time. I’ve met some of the guys at a couple reunions at Charleston SC. and Branson Mo. I’ve had a note from some Marines in Ohio who were in Alpha 1/4. My e-mail address is larry.whiteside@att.net and my phone number is 502-367-6999. I didn’t make the last reunion to Texas been having trouble with legs etc. Fighting the VA Semper Fi. Doc Carl Pulley was our corpsman. He took a bullit out of my back and we went to Japan on R&R.
Hey Larry,
My name is Herbert Anderson. I live in Mobile, Alabama. I was a corpsman with Alpha 1/4 at Con Thien on the night of 5/8/67. Yall called me “Doc Hard” because on top of being a corpsman, I carried all the weapons I could and considered myself just another grunt until some called corpsman. I remember Sgt. Britt well, he was a big, chiseled, black dude. I don’t remember if it was before or after 5/8/67 I was on a night ambush with Britt when we got hit. Britt took a round through his mouth that took out some teeth and a little bit of his toung. I had a hell of a time stopping the copious bleeding. I remember stand over him, holding a flash light up for the medivac chopper (we had 2 others wounded) with NVA rounds whizzing past my head. I also remember that one of our guys who was in the Amtract that took the RPG round that killed most on board, on 5/8/67, that was trying to reinforce Delta Co., was a Sgt. Amos, from Atmore, Alabama. He never got out of the burning Amtrac.
Hey Doc,
I remember SSgt Britt. When I got off a chopper from Dongha there was this great big black dude standing there and said find a hole son. Welcome to Coin Thien. They were getting mortars and rockets in. That will always stick in my mind. It was time to grow a pair and pay attention. Some never liked Dan Sword but he was a Marine who taught you how to stay alive.
MY name Bolden, I was in A 1/4, third squad, first fire team from July 68 to March 29, 69. would like info. Have to start some were.
Hello Dan, Semper Fi! I was with A Co from April 68 till April 69. Do you remember Pete, or Abner Baird, or Ralph Robinson, or David Proctor, Roscoe Scott, Mahoney, Red Carlton. I went by Clem my name is Rodger Clemons. You should get in touch, I am sitting right now, with a room full of Marines from Alpha Co for our 16th reunion. Most of the guys are from 1968 and 69 a few from 67. If you’d like more info get in touch. Welcome home brother, Semper Fi! Clem
Dan it’s Cat..
I was right next to you for a while.
was there when you got hit….
Semper Fi
Brother.
Glad your still with us…
Dan,
Rich Plummer here A1/4 June 68 to July 69. I was in 1st Plt, 1st Sq. I was a fire team member then Sq leader then an acting 1st Plt, Plt Sgt. I do not remember you. Were you in 3nd Plt?
Hello from Richard Harris. We talked at 2007 reuion in Columbus OH. Would like to hear from you and see how it.s going. RAHLKH@.COM SEMFI. ………..Harris
this is “CAT.”
I Believe that we were in the same fire team, and help carry your fat ass
through the jungle when you got hit….
Thanks for the Bazooka Bubble Gum….
Ron Catalano….CAT
Hello my name is Paul ventura I was Alpha 1/4 from march 70 to oct70 out of DongHa mountain to the bush…used to call me chico…
To start Hello, Semper Fi ! My name is Dan Bolden I’ve been in some groups in the past. And they blame the Marine Corps for there problems. The Corp is my family, and home. The Marine is not the problem. I kept to my fire team, The names I remember are Rat, Angel and Womak he was the gun squad leader. Humm ? he was from Samoa. I’ve heard your name . My memory is slow have to jog it. Heard about the reunion too late to go. Like more info Semper Fi ! Dan
Dan, I’ll get you name to Larry Bosko. Larry was in weapons during our time in Alpha Co. He keeps the mailing lists and such for our group. I’ll ask him to include you. Do you have a regular e-mail address? Mine is rdclem49@yahoo.com. We just finished our 16th reunion here in Norman Ok. It turned out real good, even though the turnout was a bit small this year. We played some golf, had some great chow, drank a lot, some had other forms of “entertainment”, and all in all had a great time. We decided on Nashville, Tn for next year. I think the dates have been decided on, but I’d just be guessing now. I will find out though and get them to you. This is a group of just Alpha Co Marines. Mostly we are from 68 and 69. We have a couple of guys that were there in 67, I don’t think we’ve ever had anyone from 66. Anyway if you’ll get me your e-mail I’ll get you on the mailing list, and you’ll get the dope straight from the horses mouth next time. Semper Fi Brother, happy to have found another A Co. member. Later.. Clem
I was in Alpha from Dec 65′ till Jan 67′. We left Nam somewhere around Nov of 66 and headed for Oki because we really needed to rebuild and restrengthen. Since I was short they transfer me to some short time platoon to break in the newbees on their way back with Alpha.
I was in Alpha Co. from Dec.65 ’til I got wounded in Cam Lo on Aug 26 66 when I was med evaced to Da Nang and finally to the Naval Hosp.in Portsmouth VA.I was with a Higgins but don’t remember the first name since all we used was the last one.I plan on attending the one in Oct in French Lick as well as Narcie Pullido.This will be my first one.Semper Fi to all on this site and thank you all for your service and sacrifice !.Irish as I was called.
Hi Rod, I was there on Aug 26 when we were over run
My name is Dennis and with 1st platoon. I am not sure if I know you. Thats how things were back then. we didn’t get a chance to know each other, Glad you made it home
I knew the 2 Donovans and Lenny Giuoditti from mortars
Bobby Horton was in 2nd squad, 2nd platoon, remember Angel (got hit after we pulled back to set in for the night after fire fight) Womak became squad leader of guns after Humm extended (I think) and put up to company command. Remember Tattoo, Lee and Shorty was in guns, Bobby Dees was my best friend. Hippie, Sanchez, Stevens was in my squad to name a few I remember names. Dan did you get hit in fire fight on Purple Martin??
Dan my name is Bobby Horton, I was in 2nd plt. 2nd squad I remember Humm (not sure of spelling) also Rat, (Angel got hit on operation Purple Martin) Womack, Shorty and think Lee was in guns. My best friend was Bobby Dees. Remember Clem was in Dees squad. I carried radio for Sgt Evens for a while and in CP with Don Glass who was KIA on hill 1154 the 2nd time we went back down. If you remember e-mail me at bobby6043@att.net would like to hear from you.
Semper Fi Bobby! Please get in touch with me at rdclem49@yahoo.com. We, members of Alpha Co. have been having reunions for 16 years now, we just had our 16th here in Norman Okla. I remember that night on 1154 real well, as do many of the Marines at our reunion. The short round that Killed Sgt. Ski and our 60mm mortar squad when we went into the valley on the March 25. His daughter, the one that had just been born, comes to the reunions. We’d love to have you and Dan Horton come. I sent Dan my e-mail but so far I’ve not heard from him. It’s been great getting to be with so many fine Marines of A 1/4, I’m sure you would feel right at home, we all do. Please contact me!!!
Hey Dan. This is Dean Carter, Woody, I was in Umu squad along with Angel, Rat and Womack. We also had Ron Catalano, CAT. It would be good to see you. Give me your email or FB. I have a list of everyone that was in the squad during December to April 68
A1/4 68-79
Ron Catalano
(CAT)
Most of Nam is a Puzzle I’ve been putting pieces together for 50 years…
I do remember every detail of purple martin.
because Dean WOODY Carter and myself were so short we should have been in the rear getting ready for the world…
What a way to say good bye to Nam and my Brothers…
I guess it was all written before we were even born….
Semper fi.
Cat,
This is Gene Flynn… I do remember what a character you were. I got there in Dec 68. Like you a lot of that time is still a blur to me. I ended up carrying the radio and was with Don Glass the night he got hit. I got with Jerry Kokuska that night but I think he got medivaced.
Were you still in country when Angel Rosario got hit?
I remember Dean, Cpl Umm, Womack, Leon Crump, Ben Washington, Dayton Berg, Lt. Michael Myers.
I hope you have had a great life.
My email address is gaflynn5649@att.net.
Tried sending reply that I got your e-mail, but would not go thru from my personal e-mail box
Bobby. My email is tridhc@yahoo.com
was trying to find any info on Robert Castelot died in June 1968 with the Alpha group
Contact me at rdclem49@icloud.com. I was there that night.
If anyone who knew PFC Rudolph Andrade could please email me. He was in Chu-Lai. His wife had a house fire and lost all of his photos and the only thing that survived was 4 medals. He was part of the 1st Battalion 4th Marines. This is all she can remember. He was in from June 64-March 67. Not sure if it was service time or in Vietnam. I am the neighbor and am trying any way I can to get at least one photo. Please email me at savo16@hotmail.com…..thank you
The records show that Andrade served in Vietnam 65/66 and wounded (WIA) once 5 Feb 66. He was assigned to the Delta Company. Your post will be on the web site today, send another post stating Andrade was with Delta Co in Vietnam 66/67 and requesting help from anyone from Delta Co 66/67 who may have known or served with him.
Can any one from his unit please let me know if you have any photos with him in it….please email me…savo16@hotmail.com Thank you
this is Jim, it was my Brother Robert Castelot who was in the Marines… he was in Jan 68 to June 68 and died June 11th 68. I have been told the platoon was attacked and many died,
Hello James, I was on FB Torch the night A Co was attacked. I did not know your brother personally, but I know some who undoubtedly did. You can contact me at rdclem49@icloud.com or rdclem49@yahoo.com. It was a hell of a night, we lost some great Marines that night and the next day. Hope to hear from you.
Jim, I was a surviving corpsman from that platoon so many were KIA. But for the grace of GOD I can give you almost any detail of that night that you may seek. I remember the name. You can email me at catman317214@yahoo.com.
thank you
It was and my neighbor’s dad was wounded.
“B” Btty 1st Bn 44th Arty (SPAW) fought @ Con Thorn. They had multiple M- 42 twin 40 MM. There wasn’t a base where grunts were that 1st of the 44th wasn’t. Our home base was DONG Ha. We arrived 10/66 there.
J.J.CARROL WAS A MEMBER OF THE 1ST OF THE 1ST OF THE 44TH .WE ALSO HAD QUAD 50’S with our 4 batteries. We fought along side these Marines with our automatic weapons & bŕought heavy fire power through out the fire bases on the DMZ.
JJ Carroll was a Marine Capt. killed by a short round from a Marine tank while assaulting Hill 484, Awarded the Navy Cross.
When my unit went to what became Camp Carroll, we were the first unit, along with one more Marine artillery battery and a company of Marine grunts. When you guys arrived, you were welcomed and thought highly of.
Hello. My name is John Ruble. I was with Alpha Co from Dec 68 to Nov 69. Remember the names of Hippie (from CA), Sanchez, and Sgt Augden (Auggie Dog). He gave me the name JoJo. I helped carry Glass when he was hit. Remember command calling in Spooky and lighting up the area around us. I’m terrible remembering names but do remember faces. All pictures I had were stolen shortly after I got home. I can be reached at IFD112@sbcglobal.net.
John sent you an e-mail, Let me know if you got it. Bobby Horton A 1/4 2nd plt. 2nd squad July 68 – Aug 69
Yes I did…..thank you
That’s terrible. I really wish you had any photos….bummer
My father Fred Bala was with Alpha Company from 1964-1969. If anyone has any photos or any info where I can get his military photo, I would greatly appreciate it. Baiavp1@aol.com
Hello my name is Damon Cappy my dad was in Alpha Company in Vietnam from October 10, 1966 through June 20, 1967, his name was Michael Cappy. Does anyone know of him or have any information about his time there. He passed in 1986 when I was 12, I never did get to know much about his time in Vietnam. Thank you
Hi Damon, I was with Alpha Co a little after your father was there, I got there in April of 68. I’ll get your message to some guys that might know him though. You would be welcome and an honored guest at our annual reunions. We have had 17 so far and they are of great help to us Vets, the surviving family members, and friends of A Co. If you don’t mind I get your name to the guy that coordinates all our info, he will get you on our mailing list. You can contact me at rdclem49@icloud.com if you’d like to. Best wishes!
Clem, this is Doc Norton. I have gone to a few reunions of 1/4 but no one that I knew was ever there. Please call me on my cell 661-305-7754. I was in Pete’s wedding in 1968 or 69. He was living in Ogden, Utah. Last I heard he was fishing on a boat in Alaska (?). If anyone else I know sees this give me a call.
Doc, I’ll give you a call brother.
Clem
Damon my name is Tag guthrie, I was in the same Platoon with your father and I can put you in touch with other marines/.
Marines who were in the same squad as your father. Bob Frederick from Port Clinton Oh, Ralph Puchalski from Welland Ontario Canada, Lenny Guidotti from port Orange, FL. I can give you four more names. Most of these guys are in their 70’s those who did not die in Vietnam have passed away since they left the Marine Corps and I can name about 16 pf them and three more do not want to be contacted and the rest I have lost contact with.
Hi Tag, that would be great.
Being a Marine and serving in Vietnam was a huge part of his life that I know hardly anything about. Talking to men that served w him during late 66 to 67 would Very interesting and would help me know my dad better.
Thanks Damon Cappy
Ph 812-340-4768
Email damon.cappy@hotmail.com
Hey Tag, I don’t know how but I found this site and all you guys. My name is Tyson Cappy, and my Grandfather was Michael Cappy. I believe he was a radio man with alpha. I have only ever heard of how my grandfather was a great man, and I was really hoping you or someone you know could help me to understand what he did in Vietnam better. My email is cappytys0@gmail.com
I know a person name Cappy and Not sure if its your dad. I was with 1st Platoon 7/66-2.67 I have a picture I can send you to see if its him. Send me your email Dennis
mine is rollsman4@yahoo.com
Hi Tag that would be great! I tried to reply yesterday but not sure if it went through?
I would like to talk to anyone that served with him oct 66 to June 67. Don’t know anything but a small bit of a story about him being hit in arm from mortar and one of you guys dragging him down a trail ? My e mail is damon.cappy@hotmail.com and cell is 812-340-4768.
Thanks Damon Cappy
Hello, Dean Carter
This is Dan Bolden my email is boldendan@msn,com
I remember the names. Have some pictures don’t know how to post then .Remember Catalano when he joined the unit he wore small rectangular
sun glasses
SEMPER FI
Hey Dan..
This is CAT.
last time I remember you was when we were carrying you through the Bush in a full (haul Ass)
do you remember how many times you were dropped?
Gentlemen
This e-mail was forwarded to me and I can provide you with answers to any of your questions. I was with 1/4 from June of 66 to Aug 67 and I maintained a journal and
I was able to continue this journal because I was able to get a hold of the unit Diaries of the battalion.
I can answer questions about the operation and where you were on the map and I can provide you a map. I can provide who were you company commanders. were and who was wounded with you that day. Tag Guthrie
That wasn’t me I stayed on the guns but a friend of mine was FOing with Bravo and got hit April27th, 1967. He passed that day
Do any of u remember Robert Castelot . He was my brother. He died in the war.
While I did not know Robert, we were in the same Company, Alpha Co
1/4. We were on Operation Robin Mead (in Wikipedia – search Robin Mead). We built a Fire Support Base on Hill 515 aka LZ Torch. On the night of June 11th, our positions were attacked by an estimated Co. of RVN regulars. We fought them off after about 3 hours. They attacked Alpha Company’s location on the perimeter, they attacked your brother’s span of fighting holes. It was a vicious fight, we found many blood trails the next morning. Cleaning up our dead the next day was one of the toughest days of my tour. I was the one that jumped into the hole with Robert and hoisted him out, I’m still bothered by that too. All of the Marines fought bravely and died at their holes, your brother did no less. Contact me if you’d like. rdclem49@icloud.com.
Contact me: rdclem49@icloud.com
Was wondering if anyone knew my cousin John Corwin Yager. KIA Oct 29th 1967 (aged 19) Hue, Thừa Thiên-Huế, Vietnam while serving with A CO, 1ST BN, 4TH MARINES, 3RD MARDIV, United States Marine Corp from Granada Hills, California.
Sally, I knew John yager and I was wounded in the ambush that he lost his life in. My memories of him are minimal as he was not in my squad,but we were in 3rd platoon alpha co. I would be happy to share what I remember of him. I’m not very good with the internet so I’m including my tele.. #(209) 352-1247. If you elect not to call, please know your cousin was trying to pull back wounded during a jungle ambush in the early afternoon of the 29th. He was standing above me at a fleeting moment during the firefight. I was losing blood and fading in and out and did not see him again.be proud of your marine. He obeyed his orders and tried to help those around him.
Does anyone remember by cousin John Corwin Yager? I’m trying to find out more about his time served in Vietnam. I work in Hospice and perform Veteran Pinnings and would really like to hear more about him, I was 6 when he was KIA. I can be reached at stomkoshark@yahoo.com.
KIA Oct 1967 (aged 19) Hue, Thừa Thiên-Huế, Vietnam
KIA while serving with A CO, 1ST BN, 4TH MARINES, 3RD MARDIV, United States Marine Corp from Granada Hills, California.
Thank you for your service.
I am the first cousin of John Corwin Yager who was KIA in Vietnam. I am looking to see if anyone knew him and would like information regarding his time served. As hospice nurse I perform Veteran Pinnings and would like to get to know him better, I was 6 years old when he was killed. Here’s what I know:
KIA Oct 29th 1967 (aged 19)
Hue, Thừa Thiên-Huế, Vietnam
KIA while serving with A CO, 1ST BN, 4TH MARINES, 3RD MARDIV, United States Marine Corp from Granada Hills, California.
I can be reached at stomkoshark@yahoo.com
Thank you all for your service!
Hello,
I am looking to see if anyone served with my first cousin John Corwin Yager. He was KIA Oct 29th 1967.
Thank you for your service!
stomkoshark@yahoo,com
It’s terrible to get old. Just happened to look on the site. I knew
your cousin John. He was in my squad. My name is Larry Whiteside A/1-4. If I remember anything Jon was drafted into the corps. We were out one day and I really don’t remember where but one of our guys got hit in the leg. John always said he didn’t believe in killing. A bunch of Marines are the wrong people to tell you don’t like killing. Guys kind of look down their noses at someone who wouldn’t shoot back. Well John was not a coward!!!!!! He should never have been drafted into the corps. When the marine who got hit in the leg was screaming in pain John got up and ran out to help him even though we told him not to. The gooks wanted someone to run out to help. John did and he got shot in the head. It killed him instantly. I havn’t talked about this for 50 years. You brought back some ugly memories.But I would say John was not a coward, He really believed in not killing. I learned a lot that day. I had to identify his body to come home. Something I will never forget. John has my respect as a man and as a United
States Marine. Semper Fi.
Larry Whiteside
Hi Larry,
Thank you kindly for providing information regarding my cousin, John Corwin Yager. As a young girl, I had heard that had been drafted and was killed in combat trying to assist another comrade who had been shot, but that is all that I have known. Thank you for providing additional detail, though difficult as you have described, and I am sincerely sorry if I have conjured up painful memories. Your kind words towards John are appreciated, I am most grateful. Thank you for taking the time to answer my inquiry and most of all thank you for your service!
Sincerely,
Sally Tomko
Sally.
I’m glad I could give you some closure on your cousin John. Not many days go by that I don’t think about that time in my life. I had to board a chopper to DaNang to identify bodies of my guys a few days after they were killed. I can still see Johns face when they unzipped the body bag..
We can talk more if you want to some time. My home number is 502 367 6999 ..So many men died in that war and there is no forgetting. I don’t know but you might want mto go to the wall in DC. His name should be there. You didn’t cause me any bad feelings.
Respectfully
Larry Whiteside
2506 Pikes Peak Blvd.
Louisville, Kentucky 40214
larry.whiteside.j@gmail.com
Hi Larry,
Thank you for your offer to contact you directly, I will be doing just that. I have always wondered about my cousin John, and it especially poignant when I perform Veteran Pinning Ceremonies for men who have served. I look forward to our speaking together.
Sally
My wife recently wrote a book about my first 13 months in Vietnam, Dec 1966 to Jan 1968. I would like to send a copy to anyone who was in A/1/4 or D/1/4 as the book centered around the battle of Con Thien May 8th 1967. I particularly want to hear from those either in the weapons platoon or second platoon A/1/4. I found Cpl Alvarez and would like to contact PFC Antonio B. Castor–who was the last casualty that I was with before medical evacuation. Jim Amendolia, then 2nd Lt, 2nd Platoon.
Just read your post, yes I was with weapons plt. Alpha 1/4 and was at Con Thien on May 8th ’67, one hell of a night. A lot of great Marines gave everything they had that night.
Al Martinez
Hi, my father, Fred Bala was in Alpha 1/4 same time. I would LOVE a copy (4 if possible!) . My father passed away on November 13, 2011.
Hi I’m John Casey , I was member of your weapons Platoon 60MM’s (Ded 66 – Jan 68) and I was at Con Thien I have read one book about Con Thien written by James P. Coan ( Marine Tank Commander) and I would love to read your thought on that night .
Hope you are doing well and life has been good to you..
John Casey
1392 Old Quincy Lane
Reston, Va . 20194
Thanks
Case
Does anyone remember Kurt Mueller? He was my brother and was was KIA April 26th 1968. I was 12 years old when Kurt was killed. I remember the day we were informed like it was yesterday, I would love to talk to someone that new him in Vietnam. I’m married to a Vietnam veteran that really encouraged me to reach out to you all. Thank You for your time. Cindy
Hi, my father, Fred Bala was in Alpha 1/4 same time. I would LOVE a copy (4 if possible!) . My father passed away on November 13, 2011.
Col
Tag guthrie here. we meet in 1987 again when you were an Aid to the LtGen. at FMFLant. , I was with Alpha from July 66 to Aug 67 I was with 2nd Plt until Dec and January went to 1st Plt. I served with 3/4, 3/9, 2/7, and 8th and (10th Marines short time)
I was a Capt. at the time and worked For Col Don Angel. My Plt. Cmdr’s. were Lt Mike Smith, Lt John Poole, Lt Bill Roach and Lt Don Campbell. You were the Wpns. Plt Cmdr. and then the XO of the company.
I have a question do you remember a Capt. Marr?
I was in contact with about 70 marines with alpha Company but many have passed away, Cpt Roach, Lt Col Campbell, Benton, Gray, Schorr, Lovewell, Spomer, Dooley, Sgt Maj Burke (Capt Dooley from Charlie Company we were great friends when he passed away in 73, (I was with him at 3rd Mar Div Operations) There are many more. Since then I Worked for the company In southern Africa in the mid 90’s. Then I worked For Naval Special Warfare Development Group in Damn Neck VA for 10 years where I retired in 2010.
Semper Fi
Tag Guthrie
Tag,
If you send me your address I can send you a copy of our A/1/4 time from Dec 66 through Jan 68.
Jim
jimamendolia@gmail.com
What is your address? Will send one as soon as I get your address. Jim Amendolia
My address? P.O. Box 1193, Seaside, CA 93955
Verna,
I put the books in the mail this morning. There are two books in each of the two envelopes.
I tried sending an e-mail to you explaining the purpose of the book etc. but your e-mail address was not recognized. The e-mail address I used was the one on this site–Balavp1@aol.com, but it bounced back.
Also would like to know more about Fred.
Jim Amendolia
Mr. Amendiola:
Thank you so much for the books, I cannot wait to read it when I get home. I haven’t checked my PO box in 2 weeks (I know I should check it more often!).
My email address is Baiavp1@aol.com
I assume the letter L was used instead of the letter I. Happens all the time!
You were our weapons platoon commander when we left Okinawa and jumped on the Iwo Jima enjoy our exchange student tour…
Funny that’s the last time we were ever in platoon formation.. My address is:
Al Martinez
361 N Evelyn Ave
Tucson Az 85710
Looking forward to the reading.
The book was sent to your address this morning. I would love to get your feedback as I am looking to include more information and names of those from A/1/4.
Jim Amendolia
Hello my name is Martin Martinez I was in the 1/4, Charlie Company in ’67-’68. Now I live in Las Cruces, NM. Just saying hello to everyone out there.
i WOULD LOVE TO HAVE A COPY OF THE BOOK. MY NAME IS HERBERT ANDERSON. I WAS A COMPANY CORPSMAN WITH 1ST PLATOON ALPHA COMPANY 1/4 THAT TERRIBLE NIGHT AND MORNING AT AT CON THIEN I BELIEVE THE DATE WAS 5/10/67. I NOW LIVE IN MY HOME TOWN, MOBILE, AL. I WAS ON AMBUSH DUTY WITH 6 MARINES ON A LITTLE HILL ABOUT 2-300 METERS OUT ON THE EAST SIDE OF CON THIEN. THE NVA SWARMED PAST US ON THE WAY TO HIT THE BASE WE WERE LUCKY ENOUGH TO HAVE EXCELLENT COVER IN THE BIG ROCKS THAT TOPPED OUR LITTLE HILL. WE SUFFERED NOW MEANINGFULL CASUALTIES. I TOOK A MINOR WOUND TO MY FACE AND HANDS FROM A NVA GRENADE,BUT WAS IN FIGHTING SHAPE. SO I SPENT THE NIGHT AS JUST ANOTHER GRUNT. I WAS CARRYING ABOUT 200 ROUNDS FOR MY M 16 AND WHEN DAYLIGHT AND AIR SUPPORT CAME I HAD LESS THAN 40 ROUNDS LEFT. AT DAYLIGHT THERE WERE 25 OR 30 DEAD NVA ON THE NORTH (DMZ) SIDE OF OUR HILL. I CAN’T REMBER WHO WAS THERE WITH ME, EXCEPT A LATINO SARGENT WHOSE NAME, I BELIEVE WAS ALVEREZE. I AM NOW PRETTY HEALTHY AT 74 YEAR OF AGE LIVING IN COMFORT WITH MY WIFE. WE HAVE 3 KIDS AND 2 GRANDSONS, LIFE HAS BEEN VERY GOOD TO ME. NEWS REPORTS SAID WE LOST 40 MARINES THAT NIGHT BUT THEY WEREN’T COUNTING THE 10 – 15 WHO DIED FROM THEIR WOUNDS. THAT MEANT AT LEASE 1 IN 4 OF US WERE KILLED THAT NIGHT. I ALSO REMEBER THAT CAPT RICHERDSON WAS THE BRAVEST MAN I EVER KNEW.
GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF YOU.
SEMPER FEI TO ALL OF YOU FROM DOC PORPOSE.
Mr Henderson (Doc)
If you were on the ambush on 8 May you were with nine Marines who were with second Platoon.
The Names of those Marines are listed below:
Sgt Henry Alvarez – Las Cruces NM
L/Cpl Sam Briceno
PFC Wasick
Cpl Steve Hohenstein – Lancaster PA
PFC Carroll
L/Cpl John Brown – Mobile AL
L/Cpl Hogge
L/Cpl Wade
PFC Kennedy
If you want more information – Tagguthrie@verizon.net
Those were the guys I was with. I recognize several of the names. I was actually in the 1st Platoon but we were short a corpsman or 2 so I had to double up and go out on ambush/patrol with other units/platoons. I think we only had 2 corpsmen so I was going out every other night rather than the normal every 3rd night I still am not sure the battle at Con Thien took place the night of 5/9 and morning of 5/10 or the night of 5/8 and morning of 5/9.
HI. MY NAME IS CPL. BOB FREDERICK, I WAS IN ALPHA 1-4 SEPT. 66 TO MAY 67.FIRST PLT. FIRST SQD. FIRST FIRE TEAM. MY TEAM BUDDIES WERE JOE MARTIN & RALPH McKAY AND MYSELF “FRED”.I DON’T REMEMBER HAVING A 4th MAN.BUT WE DID THIS MARINE FROM M.P. Co. NAME TUPIN. HE GOT HIT ON OUR FIRST OP.DECKHOUSE 6. JUST US THREE FOR A LONG TIME UNTIL WE GOT THIS NEW BEE PVT. SANDERS.BY THAT TIME S.SGT. BURK WAS OUR PLT.COM.
THE WORD CAME DOWN FOR ME TO SEE BURK, HE SAID YOUR THE NEW 2nd. TEAM LEADER YOUR GETTING THREE NEW BEE’S THIS WAS MAY 7th. 67. I HAD 8 1/2 MONTHS IN COUNTRY AND WAS HAPPY BEING A.R. MAN.
THAT NIGHT 8 MAY 67 I WAS IN THE SECOND TRACK WITH MY NEW TEAM.I COULD HEAR ROUNDS HITTING THE TRACK.SGT. AMOS SAID TO TAKE MY TEAM OUT THE TOP HATCH.AS I DID THE FIRST RPG. HIT I WAS BLOWN OUT THE TOP HATCH.I COULD FEAL THE MARINES PULLING AT MY LEGS. AS I GOT MY HEAD TOGETHER THE SECOND RPG. HIT. I LOST MY RIFLE & HELMET AND COULD NOT SEE FOR A FEW MINUTES. I ROLLED OFF THE BACK OF THE TRACK AND MY WAYTO THE TWIN 40. I FOUND McKAY AND WE BOTH WERE HIT 2 OR 3 TIMES..WE MADE OUR WAY TO THE TRENCH.
THE REST IS HISTORY.
BOB FREDERICK
719 E 2nd ST.
PORT CLINTON OHIO 43452
Hey Rosa,
This “Doc” Andy. I was 1st platoon Corpsman that awful night. I was actually on an ambush no a small hill about 200 yards from the west side of our wire. Sgt. Alvereze was in charge. We were neselled in some big rocks. It was a perfect location. The NVA swarmed past us all morning and we hit them hard. No body on the ambush even got badly wounded. I took some schrapnel in the hand and head from a NVA grenade but was still in operation. I rember Sgt. Floyd Amos was in the Amtrac that was going to the aid of Delta Company, when it got hit with a RPG. Every one in the Amtrac was eventualy kiled. I am lucky that I am alive and am not suffewring from PTSD. I am happy and healthy and live in Mobile, Alabama with my wife, 3 children and 2 grandson!
Semper Fi
I am the son of jay smith smitty alpha 1 / 4 3rd mar. div. – c a p 132 1968 – 1970 he was a tunnel rat . also he was on fire support base nevine overlooking khe sahn and during his 2nd tour made corporal. names SGT. SKI – DUSTY and RICK corps men. SGT. EVANS – ANGEL – TEX (ANTHONY CRUZ ) – RODIGO RODRIGUS – JINGLES radio operator – CHIEF – any memerios of my dad ? my name was inspired by ANTHONY CRUZ (TEX) ANTHONY SMITH
Trying to find John L . Sweeney from long island New York who served with the 1/4 alpha company 1972 -1973