Ambrose_Smurra.JPGYes, I got my ticket to Vietnam138 viewsMy name is Ambrose Smurra; I am a Cannoneer. Without me, nothing happens. My favorite hobby between fire missions was exchanging Italian recipes with Lt Bob Patalano.
AS-22.JPGCup of Cofee129 viewsOnce I get my morning coffee, I'm ready to go.
AS-26.JPGGun Section124 viewsMembers of my Howitzer Section
AS-25.JPGProtective124 viewsAutomatic weapon...loaded and ready to go. I'm prepared for anything.
AS-21.JPGUnloading121 viewsOne the howitzer is on the ground, we unload and set that sucker up for firing.
AS-7.JPGLZ Incoming119 viewsA direct hit on one of our howitzers when the enemy attacked LZ Incoming. {See "War Stories" about LZ Incoming}
AS-24.JPGThassa Me!119 viewsStanding next to my gun.
AS-19.JPGScenic Overlook117 viewsIf you were lucky, your next position looked like this. You had both the commanding high ground against the enemy and a beautiful scene every day.
AS-20.JPGProtecting the Ammo116 viewsEvery gun section took great care to build a wooden shed to shelter and protect the 105mm ammo.
AS-23.JPGTypical scene in the Central Highlands116 viewsAlmost every firebase in the Central Highlands had a mountain backdrop.
Patalano_-_Smurra.JPGWONDERFUL REUNION - 50 YEARS LATER116 viewsFifty years after Vietnam, I met up with my old paisano Bob Patalano in Connecticut in 2017. We used to exchange our favorite Italian recipes while on duty with the 2/9th in Vietnam. There have been a few changes in our appearance since then.
SMURRA.JPGModern Day Ambrose114 viewsAmbrose had the good fortune to find The Mighty Ninth website, call about the Encore Reunion on the very LAST day that the Hotel would take a reservation, and join us at Ft Sill.
