Criteria The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of conti... The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of continuous enlisted active service (normally three years in peacetime). MoreHide
Criteria
The unit citation of the Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal was awarded certain units by the Vietnamese government for meritorious service during the period 1 March 1961 to 28 March 1974.
Best Friends
Don't remember the names here. I remember a couple of the local girls though.
Best Moment
Leaving
Worst Moment
Arriving
Other Memories
This sucked. A lot of guys back from Nam were assigned here. They didn't know what to do with us but wouldn't discharge us. So, we reported for formation at 9:00AM (yes, 9AM!) and then we were done for the day. It was so boring we volunteered for any job they had. I ran a copy machine at post headquarters (cute chicks there).
I volunteered for TDY and was sent to the Pentagon and Aberdeen Proving Grounds where they were testing new weapons which was interesting. I had to have a Top Secret Security Clearance which they gave me.
Then, I was out and had to face the world. A scary experience after 3 years of being told what to do.
Best Friends
I don't remember the guys I served with here. I was only here a couple months.
Best Moment
My best moment was arriving in Vung Tau and finding out that we received passes and could actually go to the beach and into town.
Worst Moment
I had a dispute shortly after arriving with my platoon sergeant who didn't like my very worn jungle fatigues and jungle boots. I didn't draw new clothes fast enough for him and he brought before the CO who saw fit to put me on bunker guard almost every night and ride shotgun on convoys to Long Binh everyday. This went on until I left country.
I was lucky, the snipers didn't get me but did get the truck a couple times.
Chain of Command
Don't remember, don't want to.
Other Memories
When Phu Loi closed in March (I think it was March) 1972 we who were left were scattered all over the country. I was assigned to the 388th Transportation Co. at Vung Tau. I had flown into Vung Tau a number of times and knew guys who had taken an in-country R & R there. It seemed like a better place to go than most. I was right!
After I was put on bunker guard they moved the perimeter back so the runway was outside the perimeter. We had one man bunkers that were about 75 yards apart. After Phu Loi I was spooked. All we had was our M-16. I bitched every day about at least having flares. The CO finally gave us each 2 flares and warned us that they were accounted for and we better not fire them off. As I sat out in my one man hole throughout the night I got more and more pissed. I rang the CP and was told that the CO didn't want to talk to me. So, I told the Sgt to tell him to look out his bunker at my position. I then fired off both flares. The CO didn't say anything and the next day I discovered where they stored the flares. I stole a case a night and fired them off one after the other. Needless to say the CO didn't like me. He kept me out there until the night before I left country.
Best Friends
I don't remember any names here. I wasn't here that long and pretty much kept to myself.
Best Moment
My best moment was arriving in Vung Tau and finding out that we received passes and could actually go to the beach and into town. This was awesome after being cooped up in Phu Loi. Felt half human again.
Worst Moment
Worst Moment I had a dispute shortly after arriving with my platoon sergeant who didn't like my very worn jungle fatigues and jungle boots. I didn't draw new clothes fast enough for him and he brought before the CO who saw fit to put me on bunker guard almost every night and ride shotgun on convoys to Long Binh everyday. This went on until I left country. I was tired and sick at this point but the prick wouldn't give me a break. I was lucky, the snipers didn't get me but did get the truck a couple times.
I guess the worst moment was when I flew door gunner for one of the 388th slicks and we were flying fromSaigon to Vung Tau when we received a call on the guard network from a U.S. adviser calling for a medevac for some wounded Arvns. My pilot didn't respond to the call. I came on the intercom and said that we should pick them up. The pilot (I can't remember his name) said to forget it, let a dust off do it. I pointed out that there wasn't a dust off in the area and we were right above them. He told me to forget it, a dust off would get them. I always felt bad about that. I still do.
Chain of Command
Chain of Command Don't remember, don't want to.
Other Memories
Other Memories When Phu Loi closed in March (I think it was March) 1972 we who were left were scattered all over the country. I was assigned to the 388th Transportation Co. at Vung Tau. I had flown into Vung Tau a number of times and knew guys who had taken an in-country R & R there. It seemed like a better place to go than most. I was right!
After I was put on bunker guard they moved the perimeter back so the runway was outside the perimeter. We had one man bunkers that were about 75 yards apart. After Phu Loi I was spooked. All we had was our M-16. I bitched every day about at least having flares. The CO finally gave us each 2 flares and warned us that they were accounted for and we better not fire them off. As I sat out in my one man hole throughout the night I got more and more pissed. I rang the CP and was told that the CO didn't want to talk to me. So, I told the Sgt to tell him to look out his bunker at my position. I then fired off both flares. The CO didn't say anything and the next day I discovered where they stored the flares. I stole a case a night and fired them off one after the other. Needless to say the CO didn't like me. He kept me out there until the night before I left country. Did I say he was a prick?
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awarded 4 Air Medals for flying with the 128th Assault Helicopter Company from February 1971 to August 1971. First award received in Phu Loi in March 1972 second through fourth award received in Ft. H... Awarded 4 Air Medals for flying with the 128th Assault Helicopter Company from February 1971 to August 1971. First award received in Phu Loi in March 1972 second through fourth award received in Ft. Huachuca, AZ in July 1972. MoreHide
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation is awarded to units for exceptionally meritorious conduct in performance of outstanding services for at least six continuous months during a period of military operat... The Meritorious Unit Commendation is awarded to units for exceptionally meritorious conduct in performance of outstanding services for at least six continuous months during a period of military operations against an armed enemy on or after January 1, 1944. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Description This campaign was from 30 March 1972 to 28 January 1973. On 30 March 1972 the North Vietnamese Army launched its greatest offensive of the entire war. The enemy deployed the greatest array of troops This campaign was from 30 March 1972 to 28 January 1973. On 30 March 1972 the North Vietnamese Army launched its greatest offensive of the entire war. The enemy deployed the greatest array of troops and modern weapons to date in a major effort to end the war with conventional forces and seized considerable territory in an effort to exercise control of key provinces throughout Vietnam.
During this critical period the Vietnamization program continued in the face of the North Vietnamese invasion and the successful counterattack by the armed forces of the Republic of Vietnam. Army aviation units played an impressive role throughout the period, flying reconnaissance, close support missions, and transporting troops. As U.S. combat troops were withdrawn from Vietnam, the role of helicopter units increased in importance and they responded to the challenge of continuing to support while preparing the RVNAF to assume their function. Similarly, advisors of all services contributed immeasurably to the defeat of the enemy invasion and the continued Vietnamization process. Army and Marine advisors fought side-by-side with their RVNAF counterparts to stop and defeat the enemy invasion, as the Vietnamese counteroffensive gained momentum and the reduction of field advisers continued. The advisory effort shifted to emphasize training and to assure that the VNAF attained self-sufficiency prior to the complete withdrawal of the U.S forces.
Recapture of Quang Tri City on 16 September 1972 marked the complete failure of the enemy to hold any of the targeted provincial capitols. Massive aid replaced materiel lost during the spring counteroffensive. Retraining and reconstruction of selected RVNAF units increased their capabilities. The completion of the massive logistical buildup of RVNAF was accomplished, which enabled the RVNAF to become more self-sufficient as direct U.S. participation diminished. The US ground role in Vietnam was totally replaced by the RVNAF. During December 1972 and January 1973 the RVIVAF flew more than 45% of air sorties within Vietnam. In November 1972, the RVNAF began a C-130 training program and by January 1973 realized a significant increase in their capability. RVNAF forward air controllers began directing USAF and RVNAF strike aircraft in January 1973. The US policy of Vietnamization continued.
US combat and combat support operations were conducted in support of RVNAF ground operations during the North Vietnamese invasion and the counteroffensive including intensive interdiction of enemy supply routes into Vietnam. Since US ground forces had been reduced to seven battalions, the US ground combat role was limited to defense of key installations. Further reduction in troop ceilings led to the redeployment of all US ground combat battalions, leaving an Army contingent of combat support and service support units.... More
Memories For the most part it was quiet and peaceful. Occasional mortar and rocket attack. Nothing big.
The ofFor the most part it was quiet and peaceful. Occasional mortar and rocket attack. Nothing big.
The official dates of this campaign are 3/30/72-3/28/73... More
Other Memories
AVEL was part of the USRV Command until December 1971 when we became part of the 1st Aviation Brigade. The 388th Trans was also part of the 1st Aviation Brigade at this time.
Description This campaign was from 1 December 1971 to 29 March 1972.. The U.S. continued to reduce its ground presence in South Vietnam during late 1971 and early 1972, but American air attacks increased while boThis campaign was from 1 December 1971 to 29 March 1972.. The U.S. continued to reduce its ground presence in South Vietnam during late 1971 and early 1972, but American air attacks increased while both sides exchanged peace proposals.
In early January 1972 President Nixon confirmed that U.S. troop withdrawals would continue but promised that a force of 25,000-30,000 would remain in Vietnam until all American prisoners of war were released. Secretary of Defense Laird reported that Vietnamization was progressing well and that U.S. troops would not be reintroduced into Vietnam even in a military emergency. U.S. troop strength in Vietnam dropped to 136,500 by 31 January 1972, to 119,600 by 29 February, and then to 95,500 by the end of March.
During the last week of December 1971 U.S. Air Force and Navy planes carried out 1,000 strikes on North Vietnam, the heaviest U.S. air attacks since November 1968. Allied commanders insisted that it was necessary because of a huge buildup of military supplies in North Vietnam for possible offensive operations against South Vietnam and Cambodia. Stepped up North Vietnamese anti-aircraft and missile attacks on U.S. aircraft that bombed the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos also contributed to the decision. During January 1972 American planes maintained their intermittent bombardment of missile sites in North Vietnam and on he Laotian border and also struck North Vietnamese troop concentrations in the Central Highlands of South Vietnam.
On 25 January President Nixon announced an eight part program to end the war which included agreement to remove all U.S. and foreign allied troops from Vietnam no later than six months after a peace agreement was reached. The North Vietnamese and Viet Cong delegates rejected the proposal and insisted upon complete withdrawal of all foreign troops from Indochina and cessation of all forms of U.S. aid to South Vietnam.... More
Memories
The official dates of this campaign are: 12/1/71-3/29/72
Best Friends
Sgt Rock, Joe Kaminski, Nick Montecinos, Fletcher, Bobby G. Rhine, Bruce Goff, Rich Page, Rene Defourneaux, "Shrap"
Best Moment
Buddies.
Worst Moment
Rockets, mortars and sappers.
Chain of Command
Who remembers. Captain Madore and WO McCaskey were good officers.
Other Memories
I was assigned to AVEL Central, part of the 165th Transportation Company at Phu Loi, Vietnam. I worked on the bench on the night shift repairing helicopter radios. I only worked on the bench for a few months.
The 128th Assault Helicopter needed gunners so I volunteered despite my father drilling into my head "never volunteer". So, I flew as a gunner and alternated doing odd jobs with AVEL until August 1971.
In August I worked in supply with Manny Coronel and when he rotated I took over the job of Supply Sergeant and was also placed in charge of our sector of the bunker line. I really enjoyed this job. I was a great scrounger and proceeded to srounge everything I could find for the benefit of our company. Of course it wasn't really stealing, it was called midnight requisition. I just re-allocated a few things from the government. I scrounged everything from mattresses (stolen from the Air Force) to steaks (stolen from Long Binh).
I remained supply sergeant until Phu Loi closed and I was sent to the 388th Transportation Company, 765th Trans. Bn. in Vung Tau.
Best Friends
Delgado, Tracey (WIA), Brady (WIA), Duncan, Meduna (KIA)
Worst Moment
I received my Door Gunners Statement and was slated to fly the next day on a courier mission. I thought I was ready but wasn't even close. Early the next morning I met my crew chief Delgado and loaded the M-60s on the ship. The two pilots approached and started to get the aircraft ready for flight. They were both Warrant Officers, probably 20 to 22 years old. Seasoned veterans. The engine started and that distinctive whine of the turbine filled the air. Del and I secured the pilot's doors and climbed in our wells. The rotor increased speed and finally we were ready for lift off. I wasn't sure what else I was supposed to do but figured I would just go with the flow. "How are we back there?" the Aircraft Commander asked. "Clear left" replied Del into the mic. I looked around and seeing there were no other people, water buffalos, aircraft or God knows what else replied "Clear right" into the mic. I guessed that was what I was supposed to do. Shit, Del didn't tell me much about what I am supposed to I do thought.
The aircraft lifted off the ground into a hover and slowly backed out of the revetment and proceeded to the runway and in a few short moments we were airborne and on our way. On our way where I didn't have a clue. The flight was beautiful, water shimmering off the rice paddies below. Ambling creeks and rivers bordered by nippa palm and palm trees. Farmers working in the fields. All very peaceful. But, there were the scars of old wounds and new. Not healed and ugly. Shell craters. Hundreds of them. Mostly clustered in groups. Craters from artillery and air strikes. Signs of war, a war that has been going on for many, many years. It was a sharp contrast to the otherwise peaceful scene below.
We landed at the base at Lie Khe and picked up two American advisors and two ARVN officers. We would be flying them to Tay Ninh. The top ranking advisor, a Captain, put on a set of head phones so he could talk to the Aircraft Commander. After chatting a minute the AC spoke to me over the intercom "McCabe, is your gun loaded?". "Uh, no sir" I replied. "Why not?" "Well sir, I don't know how to load it. I never fired an M-60 before" I replied. "You stupid fucking idiot" the AC screamed into the headset. "What kind of fucking moron are you? Goddamn it Del you better square this stupid fucker away and show him how to load that goddamn thing when we land. I am not going to get my ass blown away because some stupid fucking gunner doesn't know how to load his goddamn gun!" We eventually landed at Tay Ninh in the shadow of Nui Ba Den - the Black Virgin Mountain. The mountain rose steeply out of triple canopy jungle to a height of about 3,000 ft. The summit was held by a contingent of 25th Infantry Division soldiers who were frequently under siege. It was a dominating feature in this sector near the Cambodian border.
On landing the American advisors and the ARVN officers left looking over their shoulder at me and laughing. They were veterans and I was obviously so green it was funny. I was totally embarrassed by what had transpired. Del walked over and said "Watch and learn FNG". "Goddamn it Del, why didn't you show me how to load this fucking thing?" Del replied sternly "How should I know you never fired an M-60? What am I, a fucking mind reader? Sorry, would have paid more attention if we were flying a CA." "Combat assault? Is that the only time you ever fire this thing?" "Hey, forget it" replied Del. "This is how it is done" he said as he showed me how to load the M-60. "You start firing this and you will learn pretty quick. Just keep it clean so it doesn't jam."
The pilots returned and we took off flying re-supply missions for the remainder of the day. Finally at about 1600 hours we were finished for the day. We took off from our final stop at Duc Hoa and headed to Phu Loi - home. The AC came over the intercom and said "OK McCabe, time for school. We are going to a free fire zone and you will learn how to fire that weapon so I don't get killed flying with you." "Ok sir, sorry about that. I never fired an M-60 and thought I would get some training before flying. Hell, I qualified with the M-14 in basic and never fired an M-16 until I was in training to come over here." "No sweat, just learn. There is no time here for slow learners."
We flew southwest of Saigon to an area designated as a free fire zone meaning you can shoot anything that moves. Men, women, children and animals. The ground below was mostly covered with abandoned rice paddies and streams lined with various tropical plant life. No human life was seen. The aircraft turned into a bank to starboard and proceeded to circle an area consisting of old rice paddy and mixed jungle. "OK McCabe, kill something" the AC said over the intercom. I looked down the barrel of the M-60 at the great emerald green expanse below and slowly squeezed the trigger. The gun jumped and began to fire, orange tracers streaming out to the foliage below, the belt of bullets a continuous feed into the M-60. I got used to leading the target. It was really a reverse lead compared to shooting skeet. Because of the forward movement of the Huey you had to lead behind the target and watch the tracers curve around into it. I always loved shooting and this was a lot of fun. I shot up plants and even fired at a few birds which I missed. Then the gun jammed. The belt of ammo was curving under the gun because of the slip stream and caught on the M-60 and jammed. A good lesson, I cleared the jam and used my left hand to feed the ammo and fired with my right hand. I was a pretty good shot and was happy with the results. After firing about 180 rounds the AC came over the intercom and said "Lesson over, back to base". I stopped firing and pushed the gun into the up and lock position. I sat back in my well in the wind and thought about the day. It had been humbling for sure but a great learning experience. I was exhausted but enjoyed the cool air and the beauty of the sun setting slowly casting a peaceful glow to the rice paddies below. It had been a long day.
When we landed I was told to clean the guns. I was then told "oh by the way, we will be flying a Combat Assault tomorrow". Oh shit. I thought. How can they expect me to be ready for this after today? I had a sick feeling in my stomach as I walked back to my hooch. What did I get myself into?
Other Memories
I started flying with the 128th in February 1971. I flew with several crew chiefs and pilots. My missions included combat assaults, ash and trash, insertions, extractions and bringing out the dead. I am still here today to enjoy the life that God has granted me when others lost it.
The men of the 128th were all brave and exhibited great courage, spirit and character. I salute you all and am proud to have served with you.
My last mission with the 128th was in August 1971 into Cambodia. We were prepared for a big fight but as we flew into the LZ in the Parrots Beak the locals were all out in the open waving white flags. I guess they knew we were coming. That was it, anticlimatic. I flew a few more times with the 388th Trans in 1972.
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments I was awarded my first Air Medal while at Avel Central in February 1972. The second through fourth Air Medals were awarded to me in Ft. Huachuca in July 1972.
They were all for the missions I flew as a... I was awarded my first Air Medal while at Avel Central in February 1972. The second through fourth Air Medals were awarded to me in Ft. Huachuca in July 1972.
They were all for the missions I flew as a door gunner with the 128th Assault Helicopter Company in 1971. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation is awarded to units for exceptionally meritorious conduct in performance of outstanding services for at least six continuous months during a period of military operat... The Meritorious Unit Commendation is awarded to units for exceptionally meritorious conduct in performance of outstanding services for at least six continuous months during a period of military operations against an armed enemy on or after January 1, 1944. MoreHide
Description
Awards: 165th Trans. Co. and subordinate units DAGO 32, 73: 1 Aug 1971 - 30 Apr. 1972 388th Trans. Co. DAGO32, 73: 1 Aug 1971 - 15 Sept. 1972
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of Sout... The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of South Vietnam. The actions cited are for the same services that would have resulted in the award of a Valorous Unit Citation by the Army or a Navy Unit Citation. MoreHide
Description Awarded to the entire USARV Command per DAGO8,74 for the period 20 July 1965 to 28 March 1973. This was published in Army Orders in 1974. Also awarded to the entire 1st Aviation Brigade DAGO6, 74 for ... Awarded to the entire USARV Command per DAGO8,74 for the period 20 July 1965 to 28 March 1973. This was published in Army Orders in 1974. Also awarded to the entire 1st Aviation Brigade DAGO6, 74 for the period 1 October 1970 to 31 August 1972. Published in Army Orders in 1974. MoreHide
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Description This campaign was from 1 July to 30 November 1971. This period witnessed additional progress in the Vietnamization program which included turning over the ground war to South Vietnam, sustaining the This campaign was from 1 July to 30 November 1971. This period witnessed additional progress in the Vietnamization program which included turning over the ground war to South Vietnam, sustaining the withdrawal of U.S. troops, but also continuing, U.S. air strikes on enemy targets.
South Vietnam assumed full control of defense for the area immediately below the demilitarized zone on 11 July, a process begun in 1969. Secretary of Defense Melvin R. Laird announced completion of Phase I of Vietnamization on 11 August which meant that the U.S. relinquished all ground combat responsibilities to the Republic of Vietnam. The participation of U.S. forces in ground combat operations had not ceased, however, U.S. maneuver battalions were still conducting missions, and the 101st Airborne Division joined the 1st Army of Vietnam 1st Infantry Division in Operation JEFFERSON GLEN that took place in Thua Thien Province in October. This was the last major combat operation in Vietnam which involved U.S. ground forces. Following the close of Operation JEFFERSON GLEN on 8 October, the 101st began stand-down procedures and was the last U.S. division to leave Vietnam.
U.S. troop strengths decreased during Consolidation I. American battle deaths for July 1971 were 66, the lowest monthly figure since May 1967. By early November, U.S. troop totals dropped to 191,000, the lowest level since December 1965. In early November, President Nixon announced that American troops had reverted to a defensive role in Vietnam.... More
Memories
The official dates of this campaign are: 7/1/71-11/30/71
Description This campaign was from 1 Jul 1970 to 30 June 1971. Fighting continued in Cambodia during early February before and after South Vietnam began its U.S.-aided drive in Laos, Lam Son 719, the most signifiThis campaign was from 1 Jul 1970 to 30 June 1971. Fighting continued in Cambodia during early February before and after South Vietnam began its U.S.-aided drive in Laos, Lam Son 719, the most significant operation during this campaign.
Lam Son 719 was conducted out of I Corps by Vietnamese troops with US fire and air support. Their object was to cut the Ho Chi Minh Trail and to destroy enemy bases at Techepone, Laos. The operation consisted of four phases. In Phases I, called Operation DEWEY CANYON II, the 1st Brigade, US 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized) occupied the Khe Sanh area and cleared Route No. 9 up to the Laotian border. In the meantime, the US 101st Airborne Division conducted diversionary operations in the A Shau Valley. The US 45th Engineer Group had the mission of repairing Route No. 9 up to the Laotian border. This lasted from 30 January to 7 February 1971. During Phase II US forces continued to provide fire support, helilift, and tactical and strategic air support for ARVN units. This phase was 8 February to March 1971. Phase III ran from March to 16 March 1971; Phase IV was the withdrawal phase.
Faced with mounting losses, Lt. Gen. Hoang Xuan Lam, the commander of the invasion forces, decided to cut short the operation and ordered a withdrawal.
Lam Son 719, though it was less than a signal success, forestalled a Communist offensive in the spring of 1971. Enemy units and replacements enroute south were diverted to the scene of the action.... More
Memories
The official dates of this campaign are: 7/1/70-6/30/71
Your memories of this course
Best Friends
Rose, Yell, Lunden, Goff, Budro and others whose names I forget.
Best Moment
Making Spec4 after only a couple days a PFC. Then getting my orders for Viet Nam. I was excited and scared at the same time.
Worst Moment
Getting busted from PFC to Pvt E2. I saw the list of soldiers to be promoted to PFC on the First Sgts desk and couldn't resist adding my name. It worked and I was promoted to PFC but someone caught on and I was busted. Bummer. I did make it again in a couple months and then was promoted Spec4 shortly after that.
Chain of Command
Our CO was an Infantry Captain who was just out of the hospital (still bandaged) who had taken 3 AK rounds in the head in Nam. He was a great CO and a great soldier.
Other Memories
We had a great time at Ft. Gordon. Georgia sucked but we still had fun.
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Comments
* Counteroffensive Phase VII (7/1/70-6/30/71) * Consolidation I (7/1/71-11/30/71) * Consolidation II (12/1/71-3/29/72) * Ceasefire (3/30/72-3/28/73)
Don't remember the names here. I remember a couple of the local girls though.
Leaving
Arriving
This sucked. A lot of guys back from Nam were assigned here. They didn't know what to do with us but wouldn't discharge us. So, we reported for formation at 9:00AM (yes, 9AM!) and then we were done for the day. It was so boring we volunteered for any job they had. I ran a copy machine at post headquarters (cute chicks there).
I volunteered for TDY and was sent to the Pentagon and Aberdeen Proving Grounds where they were testing new weapons which was interesting. I had to have a Top Secret Security Clearance which they gave me.
Then, I was out and had to face the world. A scary experience after 3 years of being told what to do.