Guest Book
(Revised 7 Mar 08)
Thank you for stopping by.
| NEW EMAIL ADDRESS!! |
| Effective August 1, 2021 |
mightyninthcableone@gmail.com
{click on link above}
-or-
paste this address: oceansprings1ms@gmail.com into your Mail Server
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WELCOME TO "THE MIGHTY NINTH" WEBSITE! |
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FAREWELL TO THE MIGHTY NINTH Eff 1 Oct 2024, the site will be entrusted to the SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY for posterity |
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FAREWELL FROM |
It's been a long time, filled
with memories both good and bad. Your diligent and dedicated work
enabled us to capture and preserve the good and the bad memories so that
others might know who we were and what we endured. Through it all, we
were and still are brothers.
Always remember: ...
"We few, we happy few, we band of brothers. For he today that
sheds his blood with me shall be my brother....."
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FAREWELL FROM Carlton Epps |
Thank you for your faithful service. It
has been appreciated.
Cowboy 30
Thank you,
Carlton
G. Epps, Sr.
cgepps.sr@gmail.com
(410)
746-1391 - cell
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FAREWELL FROM Joe Hanigan |
Dennis,
I
would like to extend my personal thanks for your many years of creating
and maintaining the Mighty Ninth website. I can only imagine how
many hours you have spent keeping the flame lit, when you could have
been doing "retired guy" things. We, the 2/9 alumni, are
more informed due to your singular efforts and willingness to see that
our stories are preserved. I am happy you have found an institution that
will preserve the collective efforts of all who have contributed to the
website, but you deserve to be recognized as its driving force.
Thank
you,
Joe
Hannigan
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FAREWELL FROM Dean Springer |
Dennis. I don't know how to thank you adequately for all you've
done over the years to establish and keep such an important website
going all this time. It is an excellent historical record of so
much that we all experienced and hopefully will be of greater use in the
future as we hope future young or old folks can learn from it.
By the way, I'm hoping to come to the reunion next year in Phoenix.
My best to you,
Dean
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FAREWELL FROM Mike Medley |
In Nam we would say "Don't mean nothing" when events too hurtful to face happened, although in fact our hearts and minds would be branded forever by those events. Thanks to Dennis Dauphin, our leader, and Ed Gregory, the tech magician, we have had the opportunity to reunite with our true blood brothers and share our stories, both funny - to us - and those that have been in our hearts and minds for over a half century, that civilians and the guys in the rear with the beer will never understand. As In Nam, we usually have been able to deal with the day, but the nights will always belong to Vietnam. Thanks to your work, folks in the future will be able to see a small unit where tactics, rather than strategy, occurred. Thank you. | ||
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31 MAY 22 |
Dennis,
I was very lucky to have been assigned to the 2nd of 9th Artillery when I arrived in January 1969 as a newly promoted Captain. My first Job was Assistant Battalion S3 working for Maj Jerry P. Orr. My background; I was a 13E assigned to "B" Battery at Fort Sill when I received orders to attend Artillery OCS. My first assignment as an Officer was to Greece and enroute to Vietnam, I was branch transferred to Air Defense Artillery. Later in my Tour, I commanded HHB the 2nd of 9th Artillery. If you want more details let me know; I was also on LZ Oasis Mothers day 1969. I wish had the names of everyone.
Bob
Baird
REPLY: Great to hear from you, Bob! It's been a very long time since we have located a new 2/9th veteran; very glad you found The Mighty Ninth website. Your full Email message can be found under the "Tour Of Duty" link wherein you recount the combat action you saw in Kontum Province. You will be interested to know that the "War Stories" link has an abundance of material on the Mother's Day attack at LZ Oasis. I regret to report that we lost our great friend and supporter, Maj Jerry Orr, in October, 2021. Dennis Dauphin, Webmaster |
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11 NOV 21 |
Good Evening and Happy Veterans Day,
My dad doesn't know this, but I
found your website and my father served in your unit, although, it
doesn't show it on your web page. My dad was Corporal Lonnie O.
Marshall. He served from November 1965 to January 1967 in Pleiku,
Vietnam. He operated the 105mm Howitzers. I have pictures too. He's
still alive but does not like talking about his time as most Vietnam
Veterans don't. He also admits that he wasn't the friendliest of sorts
and didn't like taking orders. He was told in Nov 1966 he was going home
and then they kept him in a few more months. My dad damn near had a
conniption fit and dug a hole and refused to get out until someone told
him he'd be court martialed and AWOL. He got out and resumed his duties
and left 3 months later. Can you verify? If so, I can provide pictures.
I have honored my father for as long as I have been alive and in my 47
years, I have seen him come unglued sort of speak, and I've heard
of his embarrassment returning home. I would love to leave a legacy and
if my dad served with you guys, and whether he was ornery or not, he did
his due diligence. He raised a daughter who will never forget a great
man who sacrificed and gave his service to his country. I commend you
all and Thank you, from the bottom of America's heart. I leave you with
my Dad's pics but, I have more of him on the howitzer. If you'll confirm
he was part of your unit, I'll be happy to send more pictures.. By the
way, I'm his daughter, and I run a Town in Arizona. He's from Denair,
California and resides in California, today.
All my best to you and your
unit. In the celebration of armistice day, I salute you all for your
sacrifice and as a family member, I got the honor of picking up the
pieces that the army left behind.
Best regards,
Cindy Marshall
cinmodesto@aol.com WEBMASTER REPLIES: In November, our group was canvassed for anyone knowing or meeting Lonnie Marshall. Clearly, if he served with us, he was one of the very early arrivals from the 25th Inf Div in Hawaii. There were no positive responses. But the little bit of info she had was very convincing. She persevered and got a lot of information when her Dad agree to talk to her about Vietnam. Later, we found Cpl Lonnie O. Marshall's name on the 1June66 roster of the 2/9th FA while it was still in Hawaii. Additional correspondence with Cindy has led to getting many details about his service with The Mighty Ninth. Thank you, Cindy, for continuing to pursue your Dad's legacy. You will now find Cpl Lonnie O. Marshall listed as a Cannoneer at the "Command & Staff" link and tidbits of his service at the "Tour Of Duty" link. As his daughter indicated, he is a non-conformist and a real character. Dennis Dauphin, Webmaster (new email: mightyninthcableoneone@gmail.com.) Cell: 228-219-1976 |
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2 Dec 21 |
FO
Lt Frank Herbick, 1966-67; deceased 21Nov21 Note of Appreciation Thank you SO MUCH!! Not just for posting his obituary but for all you do in keeping the memories alive and sharing the many stories of your brothers. Dad would tell me stories and had so much admiration for the family he served with. I can only imagine what you all went through. Though many are gone they are not forgotten because of you. Thank you Sir and God Bless. Robert
Herbick (Son) |
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TRIBUTES TO LtCol Jerry Orr |
{Jerry
Orr passed away on October 11, 2021}
Lt Dennis Dauphin, Webmaster When Jerry first learned that the 35th Inf Regt was holding annual reunions and that the 2/9th FA redlegs were given a carte blanche invitation to attend, he was very excited. When he arrived, I recall him meeting with all his friends, the men he knew from his days in the TOC and his job as the Battalion S-3. He was so proud to renew acquaintances, especially with Lt Mike Kurtgis, an FO and a pilot, that he spent many hours in the Hospitality Suite. The image of a Vietnam Veterans reunion was so powerful that Jerry broached the idea of having a reunion at Ft Sill, OK for our brother redlegs with an invitation to the President of the 35th Assn as recognition for their hospitality. It is with great pride that all three Presidents of the 35th attended each reunion: Jim Beddingfield, Bill Henson, and Joe Henderson (deceased). True to is word, Jerry "ran all the traps" to get permission from the CG of Ft Sill, to arrange housing, meals, and Gate Permits along with a myriad of other details that had to be accomplished. John "Moon" Mullins and I did the coordination with those interested in attending. The result was not one, not two, but THREE of the MOST memorable times of our lives: to meet with our "brothers in combat" at the home of the US Army Field Artillery. Lt
Dennis Dauphin |
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TRIBUTES TO LtCol Jerry Orr |
LtCol Jerry Orr - December 27. 1934 - October 11,
2021, my Major in Vietnam. I will miss you dear friend A. John "Moon" Mullins |
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TRIBUTES TO LtCol Jerry Orr |
Lt Carlton Epps: I last spoke with Jerry by phone during the last week of September. When he learned that John Cashin, John "Moon" Mullins, and I were going to visit him during the last weekend of this month, he was thrilled. I could see the smile on his face as he said, "That would do wonders for me!" Unfortunately it is a trip that we won't be making. It is testament to how much we loved and respected Jerry that in spite of the obstacles, we wanted visit our friend and mentor as his, and our days on this temporary fire base near an end. Few persons have had such a memorable and positive impact on my life as Jerry Orr. A bear of a man with a heart of gold, he was faithful to his God, his family, and his fellow redlegs, especially those of us who served with him in the 2nd of the 9th. May he rest in peace. Lt
Carlton "Cowboy 30" Epps Carlton
G. Epps, Sr. |
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TRIBUTES TO LtCol Jerry Orr |
Capt David Scott I was under Jerry's command for six months in 1969. I learned more from him in those six months than my previous five years in the military. His passing is a significant loss to all who knew him.. He was not only a dedicated soldier but a great humanitarian. I was released from the hospital yesterday after undergoing back surgery and am not allowed to do much of anything until I visit my neurosurgeon in a couple of weeks. I will miss the service but that will not diminish the respect and awe I have for Jerry. David Scott, LTC, FA (Ret.) |
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TRIBUTES TO LtCol Jerry Orr |
RIP
- Honor to have known you! Deepest Sympathy to your family and friends!
Wayne Rayfield Yes, sorry to hear of him passing, great man! RiP! Mike Alexander He was a great Man and a true Vietnam Brother John Bowden |
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24 Apr 21 |
Webmaster
Dennis: First of all, thanks for your service to our country and for the work to memorialize your and your buddies’ personal experiences in Vietnam. I am sorry for your losses while in the service, including Captain Mike Casp. I found my way to your website, as my dad has recently begun to explore his brother’s own experience in Vietnam. His brother, Captain Stephen Childers, served with the 1/14th Inf Regt and was killed at the entrance of a cave complex I believe your unit helped level. I saw some of the photos shared by Danny Yates and Robert Wilson when they helped with the caves. I appreciate their captioning the photos with my uncle’s name (though they spelled his first name with a "v" and not a "ph") and found seeing them very sobering. But I really appreciate the views of the 1/14th men in their photos and imagine how proud my uncle must have been to serve alongside them. Keep up the great work and much thanks again for your service and sacrifices. Brian Childers WEBMASTER'S NOTE: Thanks for your note, Brian. The spelling of your Uncle's name has been corrected. It is a privilege and a pleasure to hear from our survivor families. Part of our Mission Statement is to offer support to the families of the men who served and share the realities of the Vietnam War instead of the fantasies of the news media. |
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28 Feb 21 |
Hi Dennis,
My name is Bev Becker and Bob Becker
was my husband. He passed away Dec.13, 2020 from lung cancer with
metastasis. He thought a lot of your work with the Mighty Ninth and what you have
done with the website. Thank you so much for putting his pictures on the Mighty Ninth. He was so excited to see them
there and we are really appreciative of that. I just went there the other day and looked at his pictures and cried. Not only do
I miss him dearly but what he had encountered from that horrible war and the after effects from it upon coming home.
My heart goes out to all the veterans and their families and all the suffering they have endured.
Thank you for all you have done and
for your service to your country.
Sincerely,
Bev Becker
Webmaster Reply: Ms Becker, you wonderful note is the reason I
created The Mighty Ninth website. God Bless you! |
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14 Mar 20 |
{Found!
FO/XO Lt Mike Strickland} See
picture of LT MIKE STRICKLAND in the PHOTO GALLERY,
courtesy of John Cashin. Message below from John "Moon"
Mullins.
John met Mike at LZ Mary Lou summer ‘68 and told me that Mike was from CLAXTON GA. That set in motion a search, resulting in locating attorney W. Michael Strickland. In his bio in the firm website confirmed Claxton, it listed West Point grad, class of ‘66...commissioned and served four years, Jun 66 to Sep 70, one year of which was in Vietnam.
Mike
very much enjoyed the fact that some of us remember him. |
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28 Jan 18 |
I'm Walt Shields and I would like to be added to the FO party page. I got to B/2/9 in July 69 and the second day with the unit the CO told me that I was assigned to A/2/35th Inf. in a FO party. I stayed with 2/35 until Feb 70. Thank you Walt
Shields |
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25 Jan 18 |
Dear Sir: I visited the "Mighty Ninth" site today and saw what is part of my name ( Lt ? Ness) listed in the "FO" section. I served with the 2/9Arty from Oct 67 to Aug 68, and for the first six months of my tour was an FO attached to the 1/14 Infantry; mostly with Alpha Company. I earned my commission from OCS @ Fort Sill, Oklahoma. The photo linked to my name was taken when I was with B/2/9 as FDO. Thanks to someone for remembering me; and thanks to you for maintaining the site. Sincerely, (Lt) Robert Ness |
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5 Nov 17 |
I
just returned from a 3-week vacation and, having retrieved a shopping bag
full of mail, I was delighted to find your letter of inquiry and
introduction to the "Mighty Ninth." Thanks for the "Welcome
Home, Brother" greeting. I am indeed the Lt. Robert M Patalano that
you are searching for. |
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9 Jun 17 |
My pal, Lt. Edward Meierotto, a forward observer, was killed in Vietnam March 10, 1969. He was in Vietnam for a year prior to that. I'm writing a short book about Lt. Meierotto and another pal who served in Vietnam. Eddie's first return address was: BCO 1/35 Infantry, 4 Div., APO 96355 (SF). Later, his return address was: HHB Divarty; 4th Infantry Div; APO 96262. I'm not a military person, so I can't tell from these what units he belonged to. But I imagine you can. I'd like to contact the alumni of Ed's units to see who remembers him. Can you tell from the above what units Eddie belonged to? How do I contact the alumni? Thanks. Jerry
Crimmins Webmaster's Note: Jerry and I exchanged many emails and phone calls in order to interpret and add the "military" meanings of things that were foreign to him about Lt Meierotto's service. In return, Jerry filled me in on a Forward Observer with the 2/9th that had not been previously identified by anyone as serving with the 2/9th. Lt Meierotto extended his tour and became an ARVN Advisor. He was KIA in the course of those duties. Jerry's book is entitled: "When We Were 19". |
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| 26 Apr 17 |
FOUND! Another Redleg! Ambrose Smurra, a Cannoneer and an RTO assigned to "A" Battery, 1967 - 1968. He was on hand for TET. He & Lt Bob Patalano (both "paisanos") used to compare recipes in Nam. Ambrose found The Mighty Ninth website and gave me a call. Would like to talk to his fellow redlegs he served with. You can reach Ambrose at 860-774-4736;
he lives in Dennison, CT |
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13 Jun 16 |
Notice from John "Moon" Mullins:
We have reconnected with Ed Tucker; he now resides in New York.
Edwin Tucker
7 Rowley Avenue
Norwich NY 13815
Cell: 607-373-4097
Ed was deployed to Nam from Schofield Barracks in
Operation Blue Light in 1965.
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17 May 16 |
I am the Jim Brother, 05530597, listed on the website. I
arrived in Vietnam with the 3/25 Brigade in Pleiku in January, 1966.
I was assigned to A/2/9 in Hawaii, and attached to B/2/35 for transport
to Vietnam. I served at a forward observer with that company until
the end of May, 1966. I was wounded in an accidental napalm strike
on LZ Ten Alpha and hospitalized at Kishine Barracks in Japan for a
month. I returned to B/2/35 as a forward observer in early July,
1966. I was replaced as a forward observer in the fall and spent
the remainder of my tour assigned to A/2/9. I received a Silver
Star, a Bronze Star, and a Purple Heart.
James L Brother
jlbrother1@sbcglobal.net
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28 Mar 16 |
Are there any plans for a reunion in the future? I was in the 2nd of the 9th, "C" Battery, 1965-66 in Pleiku. Larry
Keller- Fort Recovery, Ohio 45846. |
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29 Feb 16 |
I was a member of the 2/9th Bn from Sep 66 to Aug 67. I began as FO for A Co 2nd Bn 35th Inf . Company commander was Capt Charles Murray. I moved to FDO B Battery under Lt Chris Herrick for several months then moved to Asst S-3 and Aerial Observer. I started the Aerial Observation Course. I have kept most of my records and orders which I will be happy to provide you with a copy. I also have several dozens photos of the areas of operation as well as several members of the unit. Would love to hear from you and relay any info requested. Douglas
A. Turner, MAJ,
USAR Ret. |
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24 Jan 16 |
(Anthony Circelli was contacted by mail) I would like to thank you brother for sending me the letter and information and hopefully look forward to meeting you at the reunion, and thank you for serving! Anthony Circelli |
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25 Dec 15 |
Stephen Brown, RA68013084. My first visit to this site. Great work, the thorough rosters especially. Recognized lots of names, but the only photo is of Lt John Cashin, who I recall left for the states because of the death of his father. How time flies. |
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5 Nov 15 |
ANOTHER REDLEG BROTHER FOUND!
I just returned from a 3 week vacation and, having retrieved a
shopping bag full of mail, I was delighted to find your letter of
inquiry and introduction to the "Mighty Ninth." Thanks for the
"Welcome Home, Brother" greeting. I am indeed the Lt. Robert M
Patalano that you are searching for.
I graduated from Providence College in June
1966 and was commissioned that day through the ROTC program.
I entered the FAOBC course at Ft Sill in late August, and then served in
the 1/6 Arty, 1st Armored Div at Fort Hood, Texas. I went to
Panama in June
1967 for the jungle warfare course, and had assignment to
the 3rd Brigade, 25th Inf Div. I arrived in Pleiku the very day that the
2 divisions exchanged 'colors,' in August
1967. {Webmaster note:
the 3rd Brigades of the 25th Inf Div and the 4th Inf Div were swapped on
1Aug67}. I was the FO replacement for Lt (Malcolm) Spencer, A Battery, 2/9 Arty, 4th Inf Div.
In Dec 67,
I moved to FDO of A Battery, and in the spring of
1968 I moved to Battalion headquarters, where I filled several positions
until departing Nam mid-July.
Upon return to the states, I reported to Ft Lewis, Washington, and
was released from active duty. I returned to Rhode Island and joined the
active reserves, 76th Div, USAR, served as a Captain for several years,
and then reverted to Inactive Status.
Best Wishes,
Bob Patalano
725 Country Club Ln, Ashland, OH 44805
Cell phone: 419-651-3647
email: mrpatalano@frontier.com
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| 11 Oct 15 |
It's John Hartley here. I remember (Joe) Henderson (deceased) and (Jim) Connolly very well. And it's great to hear John Pipia is alive. He's on truly one of the finest officers on the planet. He was apolitical, looked out for the men and dutifully executed some horrendous missions during the Tet offensive. He was a " hero" every day While I've never done a Sill OCS reunion, last year I did attend a OCS class 1-67 get together at a classmates ranch in Utah. Enjoyed it thoroughly. Thanks for looking me up. Look forward to more contact and will visit the website. Best
Regards
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| 9 Oct 15 |
{Tribute to FO Lt John Hartley: with the help of our fellow redlegs, we located Lt John M. Hartley, Jr} The day was 2Jan68. We were sent well out of artillery support range over my objections because we knew what could happen. It did, big time. We went in with a strength of about 70, I'd guess (approx 2 understrength platoons and company command group). Ultimately, I believe we wound up facing an NBA regiment or, at least a reinforced battalion. They were deeply dug in In trenches and bunkers. The gun ships at one point said "they were coming out of the hills like ants ...." We'd guess now they were, staging for TET. Fortunately, we did have gun ship support and it was really terrific, saved us. Fought our way in and then out to an Old French Fort as our final defensive position since we no longer expected exfiltration. We expected hand to hand and actually fixed bayonets. We fought all day, several hours , and never had relief or reinforcements. Never understood why this battle was never picked up in the Bn logs, it was the largest contact up to the date. Anyway, it doesn't matter now except to those of us who were there and survived. John was a terrific officer and a great FO. I've thought of him many times over the years and always wanted to connect with him. He was so good when my 1st Platoon leader was wounded and had to be med evac'd, I asked John to go down to take the 1st Platoon. I remember recommending him for a CIB because I believed he earned it, that day alone. Didn't happen. Should have. I was really sorry to see him go. John was in place when I joined "B" Company in Duc Pho although we moved north fairly quickly, leaving Duc Pho to relieve the Marines and coordinate with the South Vietnamese Army. (Spring of 1967) John carried a carbine and when he fired, the sound was so different, we all whirled, thinking the NVA were among us. I told him to ditch the carbine, TO&E or not, so someone wouldn't wax him in error. I'd very much appreciate it if you could send me his contact info, address, tel number, email address. Thanks again, everyone, for your help and persistence in filling in some blanks. You made my day ! Best, John Pipia
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| 4 Sep 15 |
TRIBUTE
FROM SP/4 Tim Duncan, 1/14th
First LZ Brigit, then, Chu Pa, Bunker Hill, and last St. George. Everywhere we went, A/2/9 went. As "grunts" we had security in knowing our big brother would help us out if we got over our heads. I will never forget "The Mighty Ninth". Welcome Home, Brother! Sp4
Tim Duncan |
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| 22 May 15 |
{PFC Alvin P. Hite's daughter,
Bonnie Dollar, connected the dots between the 35th and the 2/9th.
She contacted 35th President Bill Henson, who in turn contacted me.}
Alvin served from Jan 67 to Jan 68. He was a cook at "A" Battery on LZ OD near Duc Pho and also served as a cannoneer. After Vietnam, Alvin worked in construction and then began a career as a long-haul trucker. He has since retired. Alvin would like to hear from those redlegs he served with. He is working on his "computer literacy"; meanwhile you can email his daughter at "kaybtoyz@yahoo.com". Phone contact: 540-868-8949; cell: 443-903-5620 PFC Alvin P. Hite |
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| 5 Mar 15 |
Steve Cox "found" me
recently......1st time I've had any contact with any of the troops
since my DEROS date. We had quite a chat and have traded
emails/phone calls a couple of times since. Anyway, he asked me to
let you know that I'm searching through the archives & cobwebs to
try and find any old pictures, etc. to send you for the web site.
Kudos...you've done a great job putting that site together!! When
I find something, I'll be sure to forward to you.
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23 Feb 15 |
I
am reaching out to your organization for information about my
father-in-law, Lt Jeffry Lynn Toperzer.
He died Nov 20th, 2013, without ever telling the family much about his
time in the Army. We sent off for his military records which
indicate he spent time at Ft Hood, graduated from OCS at
Ft Sill, and later served in Vietnam in the 2nd Battalion, 9th
Artillery. His assignments there were FO in
A Btry 3-Jun-68,
FO in
C Btry 24-Jul-68,
and XO in
C Btry 20-Sep-68.
He then went to MACV from
27-Oct-68 to 14-Mar-69. Our family would appreciate hearing from anyone who knew him or could tell us about his experiences in Vietnam Thank you for your time and response,
Scott Berkuta,
son-in-law of Lt Jeffry Toperzer
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18 Feb 15 |
{Another redleg brother of the 2/9th is found through Facebook by John "Moon" Mullins. Thanks, John!} "In Nam, I was with 2/9th in one way or another from 67 to 69, from Duc Pho, LZ Baldy, to LZ Oasis, as BN FDC, then BN LNO Section working with the 1/35th Infantry. Spent a total of four years in Vietnam, 4th DivArty, and a year in 101st ABN DivArty. Post Nam was in Recruitment Command in Memphis TN. Grew up in North Little Rock, AR. Joined the Army in Jan 63. Retired Feb 85. Taught JROTC until 2005. Retired from Rankin County Schools, Richland High School, Richland MS. Since retirement I enjoy hunting, fishing, golf, and my grandkids."
Ron Kackley in recent photo. Photos of Ron in Vietnam can be found in John "Moon" Mullins gallery (Tab 2, photo 2) and also in Dave Price's gallery (Tab 1, photo 5)
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17 Feb 15 |
{Ron Goldmaker, friend of Danny
Fort, was initially found through the 2/9th FB page}
I was in Nam Sept 67-Sept 68. "C" Battery was at LZ Liz when I arrived and for several months afterward. I spent first 4 weeks humping a radio for the FO Team with B-2-35. Do not remember names of FO or Recon Sgt. The "B" Company Commander was a was a tall wiry Texan who carried a carbine. I humped thru paddies and jungle and spent a day on the beach at the South China Sea. It was not fun. I participated in 2 Combat Air Assaults and they were scary too. Then to FDC where I was a newbie. I had been trained in Air Defense Artillery Ops and Intel at Ft Bliss - Juarez (Mexico) was fun.
After 6 months and many
locations and sandbags later I became Chief Computer in the FDC.
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17 Feb 15 |
I
shared a couple of beers with (Lt) John Cashin, here in Greensboro
yesterday. I found his name on the website months ago and through that we
met yesterday and had a great time sharing stories and some good laughs.
Martin
J. 'Marty' Quinn |
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8 Jan 15 |
{Fellow redleg John "Moon" Mullins has
located a 2/9th brother and shares this info}
Donald E. Primer, member of A Battery, May 68-69, originally from the
Mohave Desert Region of CA
Donald E. Primer
1332 Elliott Rd
Paradise, CA 95969-4243
530-877-4371
zyzzxdesigns@gmail.com
After Jr college,Don worked at Lockheed building L-1011's, completed a
Sociology/Psychology degree in '76 at Cal State - Chico, later became a
drug/alcohol counselor, retired from that profession in 2007. He
now dabbles in burl oak art; also, as a guitarist/vocalist/songwriter,
he has produced and released CDs which
can be found on cdbaby.com
under Donald Primer. Don would enjoy hearing from "A" Battery
friends, admitting that he may not remember them!
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3 Nov 14 |
Dennis, Good
morning!
Dutch
Hutsell here. I just found your Mighty Ninth website and wanted to say
hi. Remembering my fallen Brother Mike Casp! Thanks for doing this! All the best! Dutch
Howard H.
(The Dutchman) Hutsell, Jr. |
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18 Oct 14 |
I was with "C" Battery, 2/9th from June, 1969 to April, 1970. My Email is William Surratt, but I go by Tom, which is my middle name.
THEN.................................................................and Now (2014) William "Tom" Surratt |
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22 Jul 14 |
Message from "Donut
Dolly" Jennifer Young:
A
Donut Dolly assigned to the 4th Infantry Division from June '69 to
November '69 reporting in here, for a big hello, and Welcome Home.
Through the technology "magic" of Facebook and e-mail and the
"Donut Dolly" grapevine, I recently connected with (Lt) Don
Blankin, formerly an FO & FDO for "B"Battery 2/9th. He
had referenced a Donut Dolly named "Jenny" on a Facebook post
which was picked up by another Donut Dolly, Penni. Penni contacted
me. At first, I didn't think I was the same Jenny due to some
possible date discrepancies, but we clarified that, and a photo Don sent
me confirmed that I was the Jenny of his recollection -- the photo
evidently coming out of a video taken on Oasis or a nearby firebase, I'm
supposing, with a soldier's home movie camera. You can't imagine how
flattering it is to be remembered after all these years. Don
encouraged me to sign into this Guest Book. In case some of you are
unfamiliar with Donut Dollies, you're welcome to go to "www.recallmedia.com" and
click on a 5-minute video called "AKA Donut Dollies."
If you want to see a lovely "coincidence" that occurred in my
life in 1984, related to two Marine veterans whom I did not know in
Vietnam, go to: "YouTube - Donut Dollies Vietnam Nurses Miracle at
the Vietnam Veterans Wall". {The YouTube title has a mistake; I
am erroneously labeled as a nurse.}
I donated all my Vietnam memorabilia to the Vietnam Archives at Texas Tech University.
My donated uniform bears the Ivy patch on its sleeve, and will for
posterity. As we all reach our twilight years, please know
that every single Donut Dolly I know (there is a grapevine in
cyberspace), has never forgotten you beloved guys who served in Vietnam.
You were and are "ours" --- we were with you then, and we're
with you now. You will be in our hearts always. Thanking you
for your service comes from the deepest part of my heart, especially in
those very trying times. Welcome Home, my brothers.
Jennifer (Jenny)
Young |
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|
27 Dec 13 |
I was in Vietnam from Nov 1967
to Sept of 1968. While in Vietnam, I was assigned to "B"
Battery, 2nd Battalion 9th Artillery. I was one of -or- the guy who
tossed the smoke canisters and the night flares during the Tet
offensive for the Chinook's delivery of 105mm ammunition. Also, the
first or last person on the hill to hook up the guns or set them back
down on the new hill or LZ. We were moved a lot because of fear of
being overrun I think mostly. (Re: Agent
Orange): I do have a group here helping me some. The group
is great; they are called "Vets Helping Vets". They
have helped me fill out the form. They would like to have
some more proof off the internet (information) so I could send with the
form for good proof. We have a sheet where it shows some areas
where they used Agent Orange, but I can't remember the name of any hills
or LZ names. I found the website where the Photo Gallery is, and
recognize a lot of those guys around those 105mm howitzers, and Top, the
First Sergeant. I have been experiencing
very dry mouth for a few years now, and it isn't due to medication, and
I have had a sore throat for over 15 years now. They can't provide me
with any relief. Thought if I could find some
information on the internet to back my claim up like names of hills, LZs
in regards to the chart which shows where they had spread that Agent
Orange. If there are any other questions
you need to ask, please ask. I thought may be some of those guys
may remember a few of the names of hills "B" battery was set
on. Any information you can provide will be appreciated and
helpful. God Bless. My basic was in Ft Polk
Louisiana, AIT also there, then to Fort Irwin California, then
Edgewood Arsenal, Maryland, then to Vietnam. I was drafted into
the Army.
Don Larson donolarson@gmail.com |
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|
4 Dec 13 |
My name is Mitchell Wisniewski and I served with
"C" Battery, 2d 9th FA, from July 69 till April 70 under Capt.
David Scott. I was just 18 years old when I arrived and he and
members of the FDC took me under their wing and taught me "on the
fly" as the war went on. I read Capt. Scott's post about
helping our sister unit whose FDC had been wiped out during a mortar
attack. I was one of the three men sent to help along with Stan
Hyman and Larry Smith. The truth is a member of that unit is from my
hometown and I see him regularly, but we seldom talk about that
time. When "C" Battery was deactivated, I was sent to
"C" battery, 5/16th where I was promoted to Sp5 and made Section
Chief of the FDC. The guys taught me well and I was proud to serve
with every soldier in the 2/9th. Thank you for the wonderful website
and all the information.
Mitchell Wisniewski |
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|
24 Nov 13 |
My
name is Joseph M. Stefanini.
I served with B Battery
from May 1969
until the unit went home. I
drove ammo convoys most of my time
there. I have the carved 18"
finger as I was the longest
serving at the time the unit
returned home. I was reassigned to
the 4 /42nd ( they were nothing
but screw ups) and beat the shit
out of me the first day there. My
days with the 2/9th were
great and my comrades were top
shelf.
Joseph
M. Stefanini Joes@montroseautogroup.com
|
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|
17 Nov 13 |
My
name is Robert (Bob) McLaughlin,
and I served with the 2/9th on LZ
Oasis in 1969. I was assigned to A
Battery, but I never spent a day
with A Battery. I was attached to
Hqs. and Service to build a mess
hall for Col. Forrester, this was
an unauthorized mess hall, but the
Col. wanted his people on the O,
to have hot food and there I was.
I arrived the morning after the
Mothers Day, attack at about
0800hrs in
the morning not knowing anything
about the attack. Dennis Couch,
and I drove the 16 miles all by
ourselves, lucky we made it. We
turned a old existing building
into a workable mess hall. Trading
for stoves, pots, pans, and the
other necessities, a lot of help
from all the guys and especially
Jerry Orr, we were up and running
in a short period of time, feeding
Red Forrester's people and others
three squares a day. I sent
Jerry Orr, a group of pictures of
the Oasis, and some of the people
I was fortunate enough to be with.
Please
put me on your E-Mail list and
mailing list, Thanks. |
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|
11 Nov 13 |
I
started my tour with A 2/9th in
December 1968 on LZ Bridget. The
BC at the time Capt John S. Williams asked
all the guys with a commo MOS if
they wanted to go out in the
field. I volunteered and I think
Sgt (Thomas A.) Winnow did near the same time.
I spent a lot of time in the FDC
those first few months...It was
such an education for me, and
Bridget was a slow FireBase.
My
first FO was Lt (Gilbert) Atha, and to be
sure, he taught me a lot.
Sgt
Joe Sleevi |
||
|
16 Oct 13 |
I
was at Louisville, KY VAMC this
morning and scanned the Vietnam
Veterans Reunion, etc page of July
2013, when I came upon the
announcement of 2nd Bn, 9th FA
reunion of this year.
I had never seen this announcement
previously, but would be
interested in future plans, and
any information about battalion
members from the 25th Division
Artillery. I served with the
battalion from 1964-1966, and left
Hawaii on 7 January 1966 for
Pleiku, RVN, as a newly promoted
SSG Survey Party Chief. SFC
(Jerold O.) Navarud was Chief
Surveyor, and SSG Ron (Ronald L.)
Kehl was other Survey Party Chief.
Joe (Joseph B.) Chandler, who
lived in Lawton for many years,
was a SP5, and Jerry (Jerry D.
Shelley) Shelly was in BN FDC
Section. He lives in Medicine
Park, if I am correct. I am in Lawton at least once a year to visit a stepson, and see friends. My time at Sill was in C Btry, 3rd, 25th TAB in 1967, and while a student of ANCOC in 1974. There was never a slot for me as E8 or E9. My home phone number is: 270-352-2126, and mailing address is: 480 New Street, Radcliff, KY 40160-1319. Thanks for any information, and thanks for the reunion. Edwin. J. Tucker CSM USA RET Email: olddufferz@twc.com |
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|
11 Oct 13 |
{NOTE:
Fellow redleg John
"Moon" Mullins"
is making a tremendous effort to
locate our brother artillerymen
who served with us in
Vietnam. While he has had
numerous successes, getting
"postings" from them
has been slim. So, with
their permission, John has
submitted some snippets of
information to include contact
information. It is hoped
that this "jump-start"
will further communications
within our group. Time is
so fleeting....please let us
hear from you!}
******************************************************************************************************** Wayne Shea
sheabaja@yahoo.com
Cell: 619-312-5969
Bruce Topham
wyatttopham@yahoo.com
Cell: 801-687-4612
From Provo UT, worked in the
S-3 TOC, DEROSed from
Oasis in Nov 1968. Bruce
now lives in Benjamin UT, has
several children. Several
years after Nam Bruce had some
medical issues possibly caused
by Agent Orange, had a
transplant about ten years ago,
and is retired from being the
business manager of their
family-owned residential,
educational and medical care
facility for children and young
adults with multiple
disabilities, in Orem UT.
Rick Breitenbach
bykeryder@sbcglobal.net
Rick
was from the San Diego area and
worked in the S-3 TOC.
He DEROSed Oct
1968. All he told us was
this: "Doing well and
living large in CA. Doing
my best to avoid Sgt
Moats!"
Cpt Earl
W. Finley finleyew@gmail.com
Home:256-464-0103
Earl
was a Battery Commander during
his days in Nam, Aug 68-69.
Back stateside he worked
with Javelin Missiles ,
became a full Colonel, after the
Army worked as a contractor,
retired in March 2013, has lived
in Madison, AL since 1986.
Lt
Carlton G. Epps cgepps@verizon.net
Cell:410-746-1391
Carlton was an FO with D Company 1/35th, served as FSC to 2/35 when it was acting as a separate battalion Jan-Mar '69, was AO at Enari (replaced by Steve Huffstutler), had a stint with a PRU, after which he was assigned to 2/9th TOC at Oasis, he was working the night shift when Steve and W/O Casey crashed. Epps was recently named Director of Central Services for Anne Arundel County (MD); he was previously COO for the Howard County Economic Development Authority and held senior level positions with Civic Works Inc, Associated Black Charities, Baltimore City Schools, Matrics, Inc., and the Maryland State Retirement Agency. He and his family live in Bel Air MD.
It's
been learned that in
Philadelphia where they all
grew up, his brother Charles Epps attended
high school with Joe
Henderson. Joe and
Carlton were acquainted in
Nam.
|
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|
27 Sep 13 |
Dennis,
You do not know me. I
was engaged to Lt. Steve
Huffstutler when he was KIA in
Vietnam, 1969.
Michael Huffstutler, Steve's
brother, gave me your email
address and said you are
responsible for the Mighty Ninth
web site. I was so pleased
to see that someone is keeping
the memories alive. Thank
you for your effort to keep the
memories alive. It means a
lot to me and many others who
lost loved ones.
I hope you do not mind me
contacting you.
Steve will always be my first
love and I will always love him.
Thank you,
|
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|
22 July 13 |
My name is Doug Duden and my
twin brother served with the
25th ID from January of 1965 to
January of 1967. The
2/9th supported them every time
they left Base Camp or OASIS in
1966! I cannot tell you how many
times I have read the phrase
Base Camp, or OASIS since June
3rd of
this year. He enlisted in July of 1964
right out of high school at age
17. I waited until Thanksgiving
of 1964 before I enlisted.
He went Infantry, I went with
the Engineers ! We met up in
Hawaii on 24 May 1965 when the
USS Mitchell docked in Pearl
Harbor for 24 hours en route to
Inchon, South Korea.
He passed away on December
10th of
last year from a massive heart
attack and I finally got hold of
his personal letters and papers
from Vietnam in June of this
year. Before he died my
brother had been in touch with
Tom Jones from the 3rd Brigade
of the 25th ID. Tom
was working on a
new book of their unit history
for 1966. I think its called The
Bastard Brigade. Tom and I
have been emailing back and
forth since he learned of my
brother's death last December.
Tom was XO of my brother's
Company in '66. Bravo
Company 1-14th Inf.
I've been reconstructing my
brother's 12 months in
Vietnam with letters,
information from the Internet,
and pages from the unit history.
It has taken me a while to
figure out the hard way what
units were working in
conjunction with the 3rd Brigade when
they were humping the boonies
during 1966. Yesterday I
found the 2/9th Artillery
Website ! The ever present
Artillery unit that was
either right there with them, or
firing missions for them. According to your website,
two FO's were the primary people
working with B-1-14 when they
went out on any OP's, Lt. William
Diehl and Lt. Dave Whaley. I
just dug up the information
yesterday that HHB 2/9th was
located at OASIS for a number of
years. That name is all
over my brother's letters and
even on his color slides as they
based out of OASIS multiple
times and especially going or
coming from OP's SE or SW to the
Chu Pong Mountain complex and
the Cambodian border. Do
you have any kind of a list of
the various Firebases used by
the 2/9th in supporting the 1-14th,
1-35th or 2/35 Inf. ? Especially
the Chu Pong Mountain area
Firebases?
I'm especially interested in
the 2/9th Artillery's role in the
Cambodian border incident on
April 1-8, 1966 that my brother
participated in, and even
more the Battle of LZ Lane on 19
November 1966 where he was
wounded. According to my
brother's own notes the
supporting artillery units
backing them up on 19 November
1966 fired 1,800 rounds of 105mm
artillery that day. I'd like to hear what you
have in the way of information
about Artillery supporting
fires on April 1-4 1966, and
even more so about the battle on
19 November 1966 @ LZ Lane from
the Artillery side of the
battle.
On 19 November 66 It started
about Noon on that
day and ended between 1930-2000
hrs pm
that night. Who was the
FO working with B-1-14 during
either of those battles, and was
that 1,800 rounds of 105mm fired
on 19 Nov 66 an accurate
statement ? From what I've read
and learned 19 Nov 66 was at
least as tough a
fight as Col. Hal Moore and the
1/7 Cav. fought barely 10
miles away almost one year to
the day earlier on the opposite
end of the Chu Pong Mountain
Complex an LZ X-Ray.
I've tracked down 1:50,000
topographic maps of the Central
Highlands of Vietnam this past
week and have started
figuring out specific locations
of LZ's, Firebases and Battles.
Its a lot of territory to
cover and a lot of Firebases to
locate. My brother never
really got the chance to talk a
lot about Vietnam like he
should have, and now I wish he
had been able to tell more of
the stories from his year
over there so long ago. He
earned his CIB the hard way more
than once.
The 2/9 saved a lot of
people lives with their fire
support missions, my brothers
among them. I thank
you for that!
Doug Duden deduden@yahoo.com
|
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|
31 May 13 |
My
name is James (Jim) Risinger and I
served in "Charlie"
battery of the 2/9th in 1969. And a big Thank You from myself and a host of other guys just like me for starting and maintaining this website. There hasn't been a day go by in the past 44 years that I haven't thought about the guys I served with in Vietnam, and to be able to come to your site and recall some of the events we all shared is a true blessing. Again, Thank You so much! I have maintained contact with a very few of the guys I served with in Gun section #5, Lee Frolich from Algona, Iowa, Frank "Butch" Hitchinson from Pensacola, Fla and Roy Green from North Carolina. But reading over the battery rosters on your site, I found so many names of guys I vividly remember and I'm hoping that your site will help me find them too. In fact, last night I found the email address for David Scott who was our battery commander for a great portion of the year I was there and I sent him an email late last night. I can't help remembering arriving at Camp Enari in very early of Jan 1969 and having to pull perimeter guard on like my second night there. Needless to say, I chewed up the seat of my boxers that night squinting at all the shadows that moved out side the wire. That was one long night, LOL. A couple of days later I and Michael Patu who had come to the battery the same day were sent out to the Oasis where we were told we had it made, because Charlie battery was going to come back to the Oasis as a permanent thing and pull hipshoots (whatever that was) out of the Oasis and that meant hot meals, showers and a comfortable bunk each night. You can imagine my shock when about 0500 the next morning someone is kicking my boots and yelling for us to get up, that Charlie battery is on a hot LZ and needs every man it could get! Shortly thereafter, Michael and I are on a chopper headed to the war! I'll never forget my feelings as our chopper came into that LZ, which I can't even recall its name, it was sitting on top of this bald, bare hilltop with all living vegetation gone and one dead tree sticking up and I remember thinking, damn this looks just like all the war movies I had seen as a child. We didn't go back to the Oasis for several more weeks and so much for hot showers and a comfortable bunk. That night I slept on an air mattress next to the gun, and I got my first taste of incoming! Welcome to the Nam. If there is anyone that remembers me from 1969, please drop me an email or a phone call, I'd love to hear from anyone. Jim Risinger, midtnjrr@live.com Home # 931-473-7722 Cell # 931-212-3545 |
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|
28 Mar 13 |
To
all of the men that served with
The Mighty Ninth in Vietnam. They
all need to give DENNIS
DAUPHIN a big thank you, for his
love and passion for this great web
site that he has put together.
And to all that have not sent picture
to him or thanks, you
need to do this right away
because we are all getting old,
and the time is not standing
still for us. THANK
YOU DENNIS.
Ronald Watts, Lexington, KY |
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|
21 Feb 13 |
{Steve
Cox finds another 2/9th Redleg}
Eugene E. Lea he lives in Steelville, Missouri. His Email is (paula40@misn.com) I have his address and phone number . Lea was in Vietnam in 1968 to 1969 . We worked together at the LZ Oasis, we were assigned to 1/69 Armor unit at their HQ . His MOS was 13B Cannon Crewmember he was assigned to HQ, Svc Btry as an RTO like me . We were at Ben Het with the 1/69th Armor together, too. Eugene E. Lea |
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|
16 Dec 12 |
I have maintained contact with Charles Skidmore throughout the last 43 years; after joining the Internet world in 2010, I found "The Mighty Ninth" website, reconnected with Maj Jerry Orr S3, Lt Mike Kurtgis Air Observer, Dave Price, Jim Castelletti, Floyd Mckendree, Jeff Labreck, Steve Sykora, Lt Monty Lafitte FO, Lt John Cashin, Commo Officer, Cpt Cal Kahara, Mike Hagans, A Btry, Tom Rager Arty Liason in 3rd Brigade TOC, and Cpt Dave Horswell, Btry Commander. Who is next? I still spend some idle hours searching but so far have not had responses from email, phone and Facebook attempts to reach those with names of Rick Breitenbach, Wayne Shea, Ronnie D Crowe (he may by deceased), Bruce Topham, Larry Cannon, Dave Durst, Ray Plunkett, Richard Mayeda, and Btry Commanders Maj John Finlayson, Cpt Bob Richardson, Cpt John Williams. Last year I learned of the 35th Infantry Regiment Association Reunions to which 2/9th Artillery vets are welcomed due to the support we gave 1st and 2nd/35th in RVN. I attended along with Orr, Kurtgis, and a couple dozen 2/9th strangers, now friends. I was blown away by the recognition we received and appreciation we felt by many of the 450 infantrymen with whom we met. Steve Sykora can attest to this as he joined us this year at the Denver Reunion and was equally impressed. Next fall, the 35th Inf Regt Reunion is in Virginia Beach, VA. Please consider joining us. Also, Jerry is working on a 2/9th Artillery Reunion at Ft Sill in the spring '13. Make your contact information known via the "Contact Us" link and include some information about you for the "Visitors Comments' link. It is great to reconnect, tell stories, laugh, and yes cry, and experience the same bond and camaraderie we felt with our brothers in Vietnam.
Regards,
Welcome Home and feel free to
contact me, |
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|
18 Oct 12 |
I was stationed at Schofield from Sep of 63 to Sep 65, at which time I returned stateside and home. I worked in Headquarters Battery in S3. We did several training sessions on the Big Island. After a few months at home, I had learned that the 2nd Bn, 9th Arty left for Vietnam in December of 65. A lot of guys I bunked and trained with were in the group. If anyone knows of guys from Headquarters Battery who served during this time, I would like to be in touch with them.
Lt Col Ingraham (S1); Major Joseph M. Lank, Capt Schneider and Australian Caption Hedges were the heads of S3.
Thanks///Gene Tomkoski (TOM) |
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|
12 Oct 12 |
I
served with the Mighty Ninth from
May, 1969 to April, 1970 (unit
goes home). I was Bn
LNO to 1/14 Inf from June to
November, the Asst S3 until
after the first of the year, and
then Bde LNO. Thanks for the website Stu
Royle |
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|
27 Oct 12 |
My
name is Walt Shields and I was
with The Mighty Ninth from July of
69 until they went home (April,
1970).
I
would love to be a part of The
Mighty Ninth web site. I was
sent out with A Co. 2/35th Inf in
a FO party. I just got off
the phone with Walt Schneidereit.
I have not talked to more than 3
members of the ninth since Viet
Nam. I did see Cpt R.T.
Owens in St. Louis back in the
early 70's and met one other
member at Ft. Sill and just now
with Walt. Walt told me that
you have reunion's and I would
love to know about the next one.
My email is
"duty2s@hotmail.com".
Thanks for everything. |
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|
18 Oct 12 |
I was stationed at Schofield Barracks from Sep of 63 to Sep 65, at which time I returned stateside and home. I worked in Headquarters Battery in S3. We did several training sessions on the Big Island. After a few months at home, I had learned that the 2nd Bn, 9th Arty left for Vietnam in December of 65. A lot of guys I bunked and trained with were in the group. If anyone knows of guys from Headquarters Battery who served during this time, I would like to be in touch with them.
Lt Col Ingraham (S1); Major Joseph M. Lank, Capt Schneider and Australian Caption Hedges were the heads of S3.
Thanks///Gene Tomkoski (TOM) |
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|
4 Oct 12 |
(Message left on the 35th
Infantry Regiment Assn
website:) 1966 - Vietnam -
"B" Btry - 2nd Bn 9th Arty
105mm how - 3rd Bde 25
Inf Div - Pleiku
SP5 Gerald J. Moore RA 22-884-286
- Request any info about my unit
and members - our mission
|
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|
12 Aug 12 |
Hello, Dennis. I am
Wayne Crochet from New Orleans.
I stumbled upon the website
looking for my Battery
Commander, Dutch Hutsell. You
and I met at battalion
headquarters in July of 1967 as
I was coming in country and as
you were leaving as best I
recall. Whatever the case I do
remember that we met and talked
a little "yat talk"
both being from New
Orleans. I also
remember a tape at a VFW meeting
and sent to me.-I remember that
you were assigned to A Battery
as the XO. I was assigned to C
Battery and worked the chairs so
to speak, starting out as FO for
B 2/35th , the C Battery FDO and
I ended my last 6 mos in country
as the XO, certainly the best of
those 3 jobs.----I got out of
the Army after VN, came back to
NO and went to work at
Brown & Root and went
to law school. After graduating
I stayed with B&R until the
mid 80s and retired from there
and went into practice on my
own. We plan to fully retire
this year as I have been cutting
back since last year and my wife
Carol will take her teacher
retirement at the end of this
school year. Our 3
children are scattered between
Houston and DC. I hope
this finds you and your family
well and in good health.
Wayne Crochet |
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|
3 June 12 |
I was referred to you in an effort to get help in finding some of the men I served with as a FO from Feb 68 to July 68. I was assigned to B battery 2nd battalion 9th arty with a Capt. Jones as the CO. I would enjoy making contact with Capt. Jones, and also confirming which infantry battalion I worked with in an effort to make contact with members of the company I worked with as an FO. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Joseph Frederick Oliver, |
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|
21 Dec 11
|
My name is Steve Gorecky I arrived in Viet Nam during Tet (Feb 68). I had just been reassigned from the 3rd ACR in Germany and was the FDC chief. I was E-5 & did not know shit from shinola as in Germany all we did was play war games. After a week of Jungle training in Pleiku I was assigned to "A" btry that was currently in standdown at Bong Son {LZ English I think}. The old vets there had some fun with me the cherry boy & I fell for some of the tricks - the best being looking for "lanyard grease" never having been on the "guns' what the hell did I know. After "English" it becomes a bit sketchy until we got air lifted to Kontum international {I will never forget just how agile a loaded C-130 could be }. {Read more under "Tour of Duty / Memories"} Steve
Gorecky |
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|
21 Dec 11 |
I was the forward observer for
C/2/9 attached to D/2/35th
Infantry from August 22, 1967 to
December 7, 1967. I note that I am
not listed on the Forward Observer
page I was a 1LT at the time.
Michael O'Keefe
mok444@gmail.com
{Webmaster's Note: Fixed! Thanks for checking in!} |
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|
14 Nov 11 |
Greetings
from an old soldier......
I am
LTC David G. Scott (Ret). I
served with the 2/9th from Jan
1969 to Jan 1970. I was an assistant
S3 for 3 months, Bde
LNO for 3 months and "C" Btry
CO
for the last six months of my
tour. Can't
forget LTC Redmond Forrester who
told me that when the war was
over, there would be a RIF just
like after all others wars and I
needed to get an RA commission.
Thanks to a max OER and a
recommendation for RA (that I
accepted), I had a career that I
might not have otherwise had.
"RED"- you were right
and thanks!
I
have attached a few pictures and
a short word file to say "Hi" and
thanks to the men I was lucky
enough to serve with. I have a
few more pictures if you would
like them.
Your
website brought back a lot of
memories and I recognize a few
of the men listed. Thanks
for doing this.
David
G. Scott |
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|
25 Oct 11 |
My name is Randy Eagleton better known as “DOC”. I served with C Btry 2/9 from Sept. ’67 to Sept.’68. I just discovered this website and am reaching out to others that might have served with C Btry 2/9 during my tour. Through this site I just contacted SSG Robert Byrne and would like to hear from others after 44 years. I have some pictures I am going to dig out and will try to get them posted to the website. |
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|
9 Sep 11 |
I was in B Btry,
8/28/67 – 8/28/68. My
name is William F. Kull ( billkull@msn.com ).
I don’t remember any names, but
if anyone
wants to connect me I would like
that. Put B/2/9 in the subject
line or call me 505-425-5348 I
look forward to hearing from
someone.
William F. Kull |
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|
30 Mar 11 |
{Note. PFC John Portonova
signed on to the 25th Inf Div
website and he was directed to The
Mighty Ninth courtesy of Dick
Arnold of the 35th Inf Regt
Assn. John was one of the
original "Blue Light"
specials shipping over from Hawaii
to begin our tour of war duty}
Dennis:
I got your e-mail and was
happy to hear from you. I'm going
to give your e-mail address to CPL
Leo Weichmann, he was our truck
driver. We had a bad battle and I
was hit with shrapnel. The
one that remembers was CPL Billy
Pope. About 6 mounts ago I finally
tracked him down and I had bad
news from his wife. She told me he
died and it was from Agent
Orange. Leo remembers us being
mortared
but can't recall me being hit
with shrapnel. Any way I'm getting 100%.
Changing the subject, PFC Danny D.
Holley, PFC Gary Pratt...as a
matter of a fact I can give you
all of the names from our 25th Inf
Div book . I have some thing interesting:
it's about" lessons
learned". It was I guess
it was the minutes
of Headquarters. I know that I have
some where in my house. Thanks for the
e-mail PS. I live in a town called Throop,
Pennsylvania John
J. Portonova
28Dec65 - 4Sep66
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22 Jan 11 |
Hi to all Redlegs My name is Robert Byrne, SSG Retired. I was with Battery C from 67-69. That’s when it was part of the 25th Div and transferred to the 4th Div. I cannot remember the Firebases I was on. I do remember "here today, gone tomorrow" as we moved throughout the Highlands going North, East, South and West.
I remember two people: my Gunner
Cpl Lopez and our XO Lt Kuney. I
was with the best bunch of cannoncockers there ever was. As for Cpl
Lopez, I had to leave him off the
night commo watch. Reason: it
seemed we always got hit with
mortars on his watch. God Bless
all who served there.
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26 Dec 10 |
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12 Nov 10 |
My name is Jeremiah
Anderson. My Grandfather was MSG
Charles R. Petersen
(Ret). From the
information I have, he served in HQ
& SVC Battery 2nd Bn, 9th Arty
from 29 Dec 1966 through 29 Dec
1969 and was in Vietnam from the
first time in 66-67, he was then a
Staff Sergeant. It's always been
my understanding that he worked in
FDC.
Charles passed away on 23 June
2010 at the age of 74.
I would like to learn more about
my grandfather and his military
service. I am an Operation Iraqi
Freedom veteran and have heard a
few of his stories, which I've
learned were more than he had ever
told his own children.
If anyone has any information and
remembers the SSG Petersen, please
feel free to contact me at jeremiah.d.anderson83@gmail.
Sgt Jeremiah D. Anderson
jeremiah.d.anderson83@gmail. |
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14 Sep 10 |
Sp5 Larry Engels (also served at
LZ St George at time of attempted
overrun)
Sp5 Larry Engels, A Btry, 2nd 9th Arty, 4th Infantry Div. Viet Nan Jan 69 to Jan 70. Postal Police Officer U.S. - Postal Inspection Service Los Angeles, Ca.
Home
address:
26665
Whippoorwill Pl
Santa
Clarita, Ca. 91351
Home
telephone number: 661-252-2595
Age: 62
E-Mail address: lengels@socal.rr.com |
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13 August 10 |
Dear 2/9th "A" Battery &
1/14 "B" Company guys: RE: LZ St George....I was there from Feb 69-April 70. I have many pictures and a full detail of that fateful night in November, 1969 at LZ St. George when we almost got overrun. Please contact me as I am very anxious to talk with anyone who was there and maybe share this. Any of you guys would remember me maybe by my call sign, 37 Sierra better know as Rick Slick. Was an RTO right after LZ St. George got whacked. I went out with the 1/14th, "B" Company if my memory serves me right. I remember one of the grunts, they called him Sugar. He was a great guy along with all the rest. Looking forward to hearing from all and everyone who remembers. God Bless, |
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8 August 10 |
Hello
Lt (Dauphin), been a long time since
I've seen you. Left you setting on
top of LZ OD (Duc Pho). As soon as I
can get photos arranged and a
history with the 2/9th written, I'll
get them to you.
I was the blond Sp4 that worked under you and Lt (Gary Dean)Springer in the Exec post. I PCS'd to Ft Sill, OK on 31Aug67. Had started out in FDC and was moved to number 6 howitzer, 1Dec66. Went with the FO Team on 3Jan67. Was with "B" Company as the RTO with FO section. That was for about 6 weeks. Around Jan-Feb 67, I stepped in old punji pit and couldn't walk, so I was medivac'ed back to the Battery. Back to #6 until late June-July 67 when I was moved to the Exec post to help Lt Springer. I stayed there until DEROS. John
Waldman (SFC, Ret. AANG) |
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16 June 10 |
April, 1967, Operation Task Force
Oregon: when the brigade moved to
Bong Son, I was XO with C/2/9. We
ended up moving around the coastal
area and ended up on Hill 54 outside
Chu Lai. I had been FO with C/2/35
in Pleiku area November 66 to March
67. Cpt Rykowski was CO of
C/2/35 at the time. The CO of
C/2/9 after Oregon was Cpt. Myers.
Anyone from 2/9th when we were
Tropic Lightning, I would like to
hear from you. The 4th Div folks we
were all brothers in that mess. God
speed to all of you. I am now 75 and
wonder where it all went.
Best wishes, |
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10 Apr 10 |
I
served with Delta-HHC 2/35th from
July '67 thru Sept'68. During the
period of Oct '67 thru May '68 while
in the Jungles with Delta we had a
FO whose name I can not remember. I
was hoping that you may be able to
assist in researching his name and
email or phone number. He always had
an upbeat attitude and was great to
around. My time with Delta was spent
mostly as Battalion RTO. Hope fully
he is still with us.
Thanks
for any assistance possible.
John
Morgan
HHC-D
2/35th, 67-68 |
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24 Mar 10 |
Hello :
I am Raymond Delano and my son
informed me of your site and I'm glad
he did. I served in "B" Btry 2/9 Arty
from June 1966-June 1967. I was
assigned to the Bn Ammo Section and
Capt Osborne asked me if I would go to
Alpha Company 1-14th Inf as a Arty
Recon Sgt. I did and served as the Arty
Recon Sgt from Aug 66 to Jan 67.
I have
some pictures I would like to send you
and also some orders I would like to
send in to you. Glad I found the
site will be in touch with you soon;
keep up the good work. Ray
Delano
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15 Feb 10 |
I was on LZ Destruction and
then we changed the name to LZ Snoopy. I
believe the XO was Lt Aiken just
before I left. I live in
Schaumburg, Illinois There is a guy
named Ward, he lives somewhere in
Florida. I found in some website that
had something to do with the 2nd 9th I
was the only Asian guy ( Japanese) in
B battery so the nickname
"Dink". Also,
I remember a guy named
"Red" from Jacksonville.
Other names, Adam from Florida,
Arabian from Boston, Finfrock from
Ohio, Tucker from Mississippi. I also
had a picture taken from someone I
can't remember, of me holding a giant
snake I killed underneath my cot.
Maybe you remember that incident. I
think everyone saw that snake. I
have a lot of pleasant memories of the
guys I met while in Viet Nam. Ron Mishima mishimaronnie@att.net |
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24 Dec 09 |
To whom it may concern: My name is Roy Sandoval, son of Telesfor Sandoval. My father passed on back in 1976 and I have been trying to find any photos, stories and friends of his during his tour. He was in Pleiku and his grade was PFC E-3 (P) - Cannoneer. He was in Vietnam around October 66 through Mar 14,1967 when he was injured by a motor explosion in RVN. If you have anything please respond. Thank you Roy F. T. Sandoval sandoval04@gmail.com {Webmaster's
Note: Very pleased to inform Mr.
Sandoval that, thanks to Lt Gary
"Dean" Springer's personal
journal of the events of that day, his
father was injured in a concentrated
mortar attack on "C" Battery
where both the Battery CO and the
Battery XO were also wounded.} |
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13 Nov 09 |
I
joined the 2/9 Arty in early 64 - Nov or
early Dec 65. I was in the Commo
section. I
think the Section Chief was SSG Cary, then
SSG Alexander took over as Chief and SSG
Cary went to team chief position. I
went on shotgun 10 in May 65 and got
back in Sept 65. Just before they
shipped, I was transferred to HHB
DivArty
into an E-5 slot as a Recon Sgt on an FO
team. I went back to Nam with that unit.
Sure wish I could have went with the
2/9th. All the guys I knew well and
trained with were there. They were my
real buddies. I hardly knew anyone in
HHB. I know it affected my morale for a
while. Those guys were like brothers to
me after 2 yrs with them. That will
always be my unit that I most associated
with. I have seen a few of them since
Nam though. After I came back, I was
assigned to Ft Campbell Ky as a D I.
Then
I almost went back to Nam, in fact
I was on orders to go back but I didn't
re-up again. They were going to send me
to Replacement Depot as cadre . I got
out and went to driving a semi (39yrs).
During that time I went into the NC
Guard. I didn't want to throw away the
time I had. I retired with 23 1/2 yrs so
I get a little pay and good insurance.
OH! James A. Hall (B Btry was on his 2nd
tour of shotgun when he was KIA
near Go Cong a little northwest of
Soc Trang.
Talk
to you latter, take care.
Harold
Woody |
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12 Nov 09 |
Great Web
Site! A great tribute to all our 2/9
Vets. I was also with the Advance Party for the Firing Battery of "C" Btry, 2nd Bn, 9th Arty, 3rd Bde, 25th Inf Div and landed in Pleiku in December, 1965 as part of "Operation Blue Light". I was really excited to see your website and all the great info and tributes. Thanks to Michael Huseth for the great posts and photos. As a result, we have been back in touch after many years. He was a good buddy (see his photo MH7) and showed me the ropes when I first arrived in Hawaii in 1965. My memories have faded and my many photos are on slides in the basement, maybe one day I will have the time to find them and select a few for this Web Site. It will give me a new mission. Thanks so much! Jay R. Uler East Jordan, Michigan jruler@charter.net |
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19 Oct 09 |
Well, I
thought I would send you this picture.
{See Danny Fort's Photo Album} I ran
across Geary Burrows this week while
I had some of my grandkids out for the
state Youth Deer hunt . I told him about
the website, but he said he didn't get on
the computer much. But his wife sometimes
does, so she said she would look it up.
He was in "B" Battery FDC 1967 - 68
until he was
injured in the spring or summer and was
sent home. Keep up the good work; things
are coming together. Cowboy Danny Fort |
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27 Sep 09 |
It's being
a long time guys. As I'm getting
older and realize that a lot of us never
got in touch after the war. I
was part of the FDC headquarters during
the years of 1968. Would like to
hear from you if you were part of
this unit during this year. After I
saw a news report on TV of a homecoming
from other units {Ft Campbell, KY}. Would
it be nice for us to think that something
similar to it could happen and meet
once again??? However, if this never
happens I'll like to say how proud I'm of
all of you guys. I would be proud to
march next to my brothers.
Wayne T.
Shea |
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24 June 09 |
I was the
Advance Party for the Firing Battery of
"A" Btry, 2nd Bn, 9th Arty, 3rd
Bde, 25th Inf Div and landed in Pleiku on
Christmas Day, 1965. I was the
#3 Section Chief until November 1966 when I
came home 30 days early because I went over
on the Advance Party. I was really
excited to see your web page.
MSG (Ret)
Alfred C Martin |
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12 June 09 |
It was quite a
shock when I came across the website. It
stirred up
some memories.
The
sights sounds, and the smell of gunpowder
came
back as
strong as they were over forty years ago.
I need to make a
correction of my name. It is J. William Ward.
I have more
pictures, they are in pretty bad shape.
J. William
Ward |
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26 May 09 |
Found
your great web site and saw a face I recognized,
Danny Fort. I have a couple of pictures of he
and I being awarded an ACM. I was a
Asst Gunner and Gunner on Righteous One. Would
like to correspond with anyone who served during
67- 68
Sherm Machgan,
Bravo
Battery, Sept1967- Sept1968
smachgan@raleys.com |
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3 Apr 09 |
Hello... Just stumbled onto your web site by accident. It brought back a lot of memories... and do I have the stories to tell! AND I saved a lot of photos! AND I saved my uniform and 2/9th insignias and special berets! Here is me in Duc Pho wearing a 2/9th camouflage beret (that's my 3/4-ton commo truck in the background- notice the hex insignia on the door)... {See Dixon Album - Photo Gallery} Here are the berets. Note the 2/9th embroidery and the shield on the red one. The other also as "2/9 Arty" embroidered on it, but hard to see. We were told that we were authorized to wear the red only at special functions or on post. And the camouflage was for the field... but our sergeants never made much comment about them and we could not wear them in formations. {See Dixon Album - Photo Gallery} Here is my uniform with 2/9th shields on the epaulets and BOTH 25th division and 4th division patches due to the fact the 3rd Brigade 25th spent so much time in 4th Division territory (and 3rd of 4th spent so much time in the 25th area) they simply swapped during the time I was there. The specialty braid in red is not exactly correct for me since I was a Signal Corps guy (which was orange) but I was told by my CO to wear the red braid in honor of our artillery unit rather than my training. They made me remove the orange braid... {See Dixon Album - Photo Gallery} I also knew Charles McClurg very well (he preferred to be called just "Bruce" for some reason). We were both from Michigan, but he was younger than me. We talked all the time and he kinda looked up to me. He was also an "RA" and told me he put his age up to get in, so I still wonder today what his real age was... especially as listed. And while he is listed as "C" Battery on your site, he was actually originally part of my commo team in the Headquarters Battery and got himself transferred over to Battalion HQ... which then farmed him out from there to a deeper field battery. His death is always listed as December 25th, 1967, but I very well remember that he was actually killed on Christmas eve. And the letter from the fellow on your site matches exactly what I was told over the radio that night as to how he died. I was one of the first to hear since I was commo. I ran the HQ radios, radio teletype and crypto machines. I remember us soldiers in a tent in Duc Pho crying tears that night over news of his death. He slept in the same tent with us until his transfer and he was a good friend of mine. I think of him often. In fact, when he left our unit, he actually believed he was not coming back. I tried to convince him otherwise, but he gave me his cigarette lighter and Kodak camera "to keep in case I don't return"... which I still have to this day. I have often thought of trying to contact his family and sending them these items. Here they are... {See Dixon Album - Photo Gallery} And 2/9th had special insignias that went on our trucks. I don't see this mentioned anywhere. They were hexagons of red and outlined in yellow. I am told they were to symbolize an ammo box turned on it's side. You can see the symbol on the door of my commo truck and on our commo jeep (below... look over the grille... and again I have a beret on)... {See Dixon Album - Photo Gallery} The place I remember that was so dangerous and
remote was a place we called LZ Liz. I spent a few
days and nights there huddled in a bunker while the
guns went off. I forget which battery was
there, but they had very rough accommodations and a
scary place on top of a hill. I was stationed
in Duc Pho at the time. I was also in Kontum, Bong
Son, and other areas. |
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19 Mar 09 |
My name is Ron Griffin (Sgt, A/1-82 FA 70-71). I am the web page manager for the 82nd FA Regimental web site at www.lzhurricane.com. Several members of C Btry, 1st Bn, 82nd FA are looking for information on units who operated out of LZ Liz in Quang Ngai Provence before the later 1/2 of 1968. "C" Btry took over for a 105mm unit on Liz in mid to late '68 and would like information on the startup of that fire base. We believe the unit involved was the 2/9 while operating as part of Task Force Oregon and would like to hear from any of you that has info on Liz they can share. Just contact me through LZ Hurricane if you can help and I will get you in touch with the C Btry vets. | ||
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5 Mar 09 |
Hi, I just looked up this site for a buddy of mine,
a former Red Leg from your outfit, I imagine he will
be in contact with you soon. I just wanted to comment
on what a great web site you have and to thank you for
your service and to say "Welcome Home". I too was in the
Fourth Infantry Div., Co C 1st/12th Inf. and don't
know if you ever did any fire missions for us (got
kind of confusing over there) in and out of somebody's
operational control, places where the fields of fire
might have overlapped but at any rate we (the
Infantry) couldn't have handled our mission of closing
with the enemy unless we had the big guns helping us.
My motto out in the field was "For a good time
call in Artillery" lol. We were certainly in the
same places but usually at different times. I wish all
my Fourth Div. brothers the best......... Paul Pagliaro an11bravo@aol.com |
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22 Feb 09 |
First and foremost, thank you for the response.
The
picture in frame 159/173 very likely could be me. The
picture in frame 163/173 is not me; I can not identify
who it could be. I do know and remember you.
I also
would note that I spent time with Lt. Landau in the
field as his RTO. I have seen your photos on the
Cacti
web site, but these are more and more familiar.
Thanks again, if I hear from others or can come
up with new info, I will forward it.
I left country in September, 1968.
I took a
three month extension and left the army as a
SGT E5. Now living in Livonia, MI.
Thanks again, SGT NOSE (Greg Malnar) gmalnar@sbcglobal.net |
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18 Feb 09 |
1Lt
Bill Farmer, Forward Observer for C Company, was a genuine
hero. Fatally wounded on 20 May, he died on 29 May,
1967. An impact DSC was submitted and I discovered
only recently that the award had been downgraded to a
Silver Star. Will you please help to change this
error and injustice to Bill? The vehicle for this is
DD Form 149 July 2006---“Application For Correction of
Military Record Under the Provisions of Title 10, U.S.
Cord, Section 1552”. I have two eyewitnesses
to the action---Lt. Rutledge and PFC Thorne. Can any
of you help to locate his wife, Carletta V. Farmer or
daughter Lee, or access to his Silver Star Citation?
I hope to work with you and look forward to your replies. Sincerely, Jim Lanning (commanded C Company in the action where Bill gave his all) brotherjim@grandecom.net |
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6 Feb 09 |
I came to the TF (3rd Brigade, 25th Ind Div Special
Task Force) in December 65 and was assigned as FO
to B/1/14 Infantry (Golden Dragon/Right of the Line).
I also had the privilege of serving as A/1/14's FO when
Hap Shanles was company commander. And Jock Miller
did his famous "John Wayne" on an ambush in the
TF Oregon AO. I will be looking at the 1/14 web site
for all my old friends. Dave Whaley panzer_pilot@hotmail.com |
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2 Feb 09 |
Golden Dragons, Sir! to all you cannon-cockers!
You "Kings of Battle" certainly provided the
balls to us who served in the "Queen" many
times when called upon to save our butts. Hats off
to Dennis for establishing this wonderful site.
My name is Tom Jones and I deployed from Hawaii as XO
of B/1/14. Spent my first 3-4 months humping the
Cambodian border alongside one of your FO's, Bill Diehl
from Battery B. Later, when I was on staff of 1-14
Infantry spent a lot of time with LNO's Carl Morin and
Charlie Jackson. Would love e-mail contact from
any of them.
1-14 has a web site at the link provided and we
invite you to check out our "Timeline" section
of Battalion Journal entries and share our mutual
history. We have also recently started a 14th
Infantry Regiment Association and invite any of you that
"humped" with us to join.
I would also request your help in telling the
forgotten history of our Brigade. I am editing a
book initiated by the 25th Infantry Division
Association to be titled "The Bastard Brigade:
A History of the 3rd BDE Task Force in the Central
Highlands and Beyond. There will be sections about
the 3 Infantry BN's (1/14,1/35,2/35), 2/9 Artillery and
1/69 Armor. I've seen comments in this Guest Book
about battles at LZ St. George and Oasis and would love
to have details from your perspective. Historical
detail from mid-1967 through 1970 are sketchy, so we
need your help. Thanks.
Tom Jones (Tom@1-14th.com) |
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20 Jan 09 |
Wow! Dick Ellegood---WIA May 67 when we
were at Duc Pho-Chu Lai area. I was Bn Commo/Crypto
Off so had to take a chopper ride to the port of DaNang
where Dick was evac'd to the Hospital ship HOPE. We
landed the chopper on deck and I had to go track down his
"VALUABLES " to recover his map and
"code book". Had a very short visit with
him --like Hi & Bye & I gotta get back to the
chopper. Strange the memories a name will bring
back. Dick--glad you made it.
Pat Kasperbauer -
ptkasperbauer@yahoo.com |
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15 Jan 09 |
I can give you a little more history on Dick Ellegood.
He was also XO of "C" battery when it was just
north of Guadalcanal and was wounded during a mortar
attack on the FB and evacuated. He lost an eye and
was rehab'ed and sent to Field Artillery School as an
instructor. Had a great family and was one of the
guys you could trust with your life. Dave Whaley panzer_pilot@hotmail.com |
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14 Jan 09 |
Thank you for the website. I have wondered
what happen to some of the soldiers of 2/9th. Yes, I
think I remember Lt. Don Blankin; say hello for
me.
I served less than two years in the military;
discharged Oct. 24,1969. Went back to
Dallas,TX. where my wife was staying. Worked
for the Zale Corp. 19 years then had my own jewelry
business for 13 years; sold it and retired in Las Vegas in
2002. |
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8 Jan 09 |
LTC
Dauphin – Joe Galloway forwarded your note, and I am
closing the loop with you. I appreciate the
outreach. I do remember my days as an FO in the Btry
B, 2/9th FA Regt. The lessons I learned
in combat in Vietnam stayed with me for the next 37 years
as a Soldier. My Recon Sergeants and I have stayed
in touch. Ernie Kingcade, Enid, OK, and Les Cotton,
Navarro County, TX, were two big reasons I succeeded in
the Army. Many thanks for the note. Happy New
Year and best wishes for a 2009 filled with good health,
much happiness, and peace.
Best regards -- Ric Shinseki |
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|
8 Dec 08 |
By a stroke of luck, my web surfing this
evening brought me to the Mighty Ninth web site. For
some reason, I had not come to it previously. I
am one of the names on the FO list with you. The
last name. I have some papers/orders/updates for the
site you may wish to use. During the Christmas lull,
I will endeavor to organize them and email. I managed to hang around the Army for 30. By coincidence, I attended the BDE pre command class with Ric Shinseki and am very glad he has been tapped to continue to serve. I deployed with the BN in Jan 66 (rode the C-141 with the Inf Company) and departed Dec 66. So we overlapped. Need to trade stories. Thanks for what you do with this effort. Bob Zschoche bobzschoche@msn.com Whispering Pines NC 910.949.9948 c/910.638.8195 |
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18 Nov 08 |
Good
to hear from you. I have been waiting for quite a
long time for a web site like this. Since I live
approximately 30 miles from Washington, D.C., I have
attended gatherings at "The Wall" with the
hope I would run into someone I served with. Additionally,
besides being at the Oasis for Mother's Day '69, I was
also there when it was being downsized/torn down.
Going
to take an inventory of my Nam items tonight. I
think I have an article with a rather large picture of
my 105 battery with a 155 battery, and a 175 battery
along side a old Special Forces air strip.
Mark
Gannon
catongannon@verizon.net |
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|
29 Oct 08 |
Hi -- and this is Sp 4 Joe Cook of "B" Btry
2nd Bn, 9th Arty, from Dec 65 - Jan 67. I was in
the FDC.
I have a picture of
Short Round as a pup and I was blown away when reading
through the site. Had always wondered what happened
to Short Round. He would ride the supply Helo's and
always come back to us. How
did he get wounded?
Hope you might send some
pictures of Short Round!
Right now a flood of memories
are coming back and am not able to keep up and so was
nice to read your recall of some of the LZs (of which I
know). I was only in Pleiku awhile and spent most of my
time out all over the boonies. But,
we kept one
gun section back in the area of Pleiku and so had 5 howitzers
(105
mm) in the field with us.
This site new to me and so am
trying it out. Hope to hear from you. Joe Cook "sgtfccook@hotmail.com" |
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25 Sep 08 |
On this day in 1968, we lost 1st Lt.
Roger Fulkerson at Duc-Lap. I'm taking this opportunity to
remember Roger and his family, that he sadly never knew,
and to remind everyone that we owe those heroes, that gave
so much, a moment of our time to salute them for their
sacrifices and be thankful for the opportunity we have had
to enjoy our life with the freedom they helped provide. A
big thanks also to Dennis for his effort in providing us
with this site so that our lost Brothers have a place to
be that we may visit with them from time to time.
Lt Don Blankin, Bravo 2/9 1968-1969 (deceased) |
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|
6 Aug 08 |
I just had a copy of the web
site published to me by an old friend who served in the
Mighty Ninth...(FO) Lt Rainer Stutt.
I have enjoyed reading all the
stories and statements-especially that about my old friend
Bill Farmer who attended OCS with me at Ft. Sill (or vice
versa). Bill was a truly unique individual.
I don't have much to contribute,
but there are a couple of people and stories I would like to
contribute. May I send them through you?
My easiest contact is panzer_pilot@hotmail.com.
I made a branch switch to Armor after I left the war.
Lt Dave Whaley |
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|
6 Aug 08 |
Would like to make a correction
to my 24 Apr 08 message on the Visitors Comments
section. The email address was wrong since it had
an extra dot in it. It should be d.g.p@comcast.net.
Also, hello to Terry Stuber in
B Battery FDC. I remember you well, 43 Sierra. This is 13 Papa, Dave Price, from Battalion FDC. Greetings from Minnesota. |
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|
9 July 08 |
Good Morning Terry and others! I have a pretty good list of
LZ's Oct 68-69 to add to yours which include: Saber, Schyler, Steadfast, Ranger I and
II (yep
we landed on the wrong one and had to move after filling another
million sandbags), Bridgette, Valentine, Marylou, Oasis, Cacti
Blue, Thirsty, Duke, Penny, Ruth, Ernie, Patsy.........Geez, I
don't remember half of them. For new arrivals here, I was
FDC, B, 2/9.
Best Wishes, |
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|
9 July 08 |
Goooooooooood morning my REDLEG pals. I would like
to hear from you fellows that were assigned to 2/35th from 8-68
thru 8-69. I was a battalion RTO that stayed with the forward
firebases during my entire tour. It was not uncommon for us
to mingle and make friends with the 2/9th soldiers once they got
on the firebase...some of the firebase names were: LZ Saber, LZ
Valentine, LZ Penny, LZ English and many more that I cannot
remember.
Terry Savely |
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|
8 July 08 |
Dear “The Mighty Ninth”
Webmaster: The following is additional information for your command and staff page. "Dutch" (Capt.) Hutsell and I arrived in the battalion at the same time 1/22/67. He was assigned the job as S-4, Vince (Capt.) DeJesus was made the "C" Btry Cmdr and I was made Hq Btry Cmdr. Vince was wounded in March and I was assigned command of "C" Btry on 14 March 67. On 25 July 67, Dutch Hutsell and I switched jobs; he became the "C" Btry Cmdr and I the S-4. Attached is a picture of me during the time I was C Btry Cmdr. God Bless! Webmaster Note: Captain Harold "Dutch" Hutsell is deceased. |
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3 July 08 |
Hello all. Sp5 Terry Stuber here, "B" Battery
July 1967 - July 1968. Danny Fort and I were in the FDC
together. He called me today and told me about the website
and it is GREAT. I will try to find some pics to post
if you want them. Terry Stuber Metamora, IL 61548 tlstuber@mtco.com |
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30 June 08 |
Hello all! This is Sp5
Danny Fort. I was in "B" Btry 2nd Bn, 9th Arty, from Sept
67 - Sept 68. There are too many Firebases to list. I
have seen
one other person who mentioned Duc Pho and Pleiku, Ban
Me Thuot, Kontum, and Thunder Mountain. I was in
the FDC (Fire Direction Center). They called me
"Cowboy". I have run across a couple of guys
from back then. Would like to hear from others. I have a good
picture of myself and "Short Round", the Battery
dog. {See Photo Album} If you were there,
you know who he was.
This is a pic of short round and myself after he was wounded; I was the one who stitched him up and
then took him to the doc. When he was in our Btry, he always
stayed on my bunk. I have had contact over the years with Terry
Stuber, Gary Burrows, and First Sergeant Clifford J Pullan
(deceased). One of the
Battery names was Capt Donovan (I believe he was from Boston), 1SG Pullan (he was
from Aline, Ok and now lives in Alma, Ak) There was Lt.
Moyer not
sure of these spellings. Also, a Lt Baumgartner. They were FO's
and FDO's. I remember faces to some others, but don't remember
their names right now. I'm happy you put together this site.
I
have looked for years to find it. As I have started using the VA
hospital, and it has helped me remember some things. Thanks
again. Danny L. Fort, (Headrick, Okla) aka "Cowboy", Sp5 Fire Direction Chief, B Btry Feel free to contact me at dfort@att.net. |
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23 June 08 |
Hello all my Mighty Ninth friends. My name is Herb
Ables and I served with 2/9th Arty, "B" Battery, from 5 Oct
5 '69 to 5 Oct 5 '70. I spent my first 6 months bouncing around
LZ to LZ. Colors went home and I didn't have enough time in
country and moved on to 4/42. Would like to hear from anyone
around my time in country. I have a few pictures of my time in country and a
few of the LZ's. Looking for pictures of LZ St. George.
I was there on that fretful night of November 5th, 1969. If you
were there, you remember. I know I'll never forget it. Nor the
next evening.
Contact me. Herb Ables "herb@charter.net" PS: Does anyone remember a Lt JM Tolar? Please let me know. |
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11 June 08 |
Hi to all from the MIGHTY-NINTH.
I am
Samuel Nieto; I served in Nam from 9--67 to 9--68 in "C" Battery
first with Sgt Carson, then Sgt Payne and served in- between Nov
& Dec with FO known as "63 KILO" in C/2/35th
Infantry Regiment. I returned on 12-23-67 back to 2/9
Arty and two days later my replacement
Charles McClurg along with Danny Jeter and Lt Siengo were KIA by
a deflected round that fell on top of them. Discovered this web 6-10-08
and have talked to three Cannoneer buddies. Still looking for
Juan R. Renteria. I use to love to go get the mail and guess
what: I
worked for the Postal Service until October, 2005.
Retired with 38
years and 4 months. Hope to hear from you guys.
Sam Nieto |
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8 May 08 |
Good
Day, Walter G. Hyatt has since died sometime in the ‘80’s and Aubrey Dale Ramsey in 2007. Ramsey and I communicated for a while a few years ago, but lost touch in his final years. Thanks
for the web site, keep it up. |
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6 May 08 |
I
served with the 2/9 Arty from Sept. 67 - Sept. 68 in the liaison
section with the 2/35 Inf.
It
is mentioned on the 2/35 Inf Cacti Association website that there is
now a 2nd/9th Arty website. If so, please forward the logon info for
the site.
Jim
Connolly |
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24 Apr 08 |
This is Spec 5 Dave Price,
worked in battalion FDC with Lt Col Shirey, S3 Major Wright, plus
many other great duty officers (Capt. Walker, Capt. Fagan, etc.).
Too bad you don't post names of more of us enlisted guys on the site.
Was in 3rd Brigade, 4th Inf. Div. at Duc Pho, near Chu Lai during Tet
in 68, then Bong Son, Kontum, finally west of Pleiku. Hello to
all the guys from A, B, and C batteries, best wishes from
Minneapolis. This is Mike 13, Out. d.g.p.@comcast.net
Webmaster Note: With great apologies, Dave, the site had its origin when I was trying to find my fellow Forward Observers, not knowing how many would ever see the website. To my glorious surprise, The Mighty Ninth has been a huge success and was greatly expanded to include ANY redleg who wore the crest of the 2/9th FA in Vietnam. |
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16 Mar 08 |
Great website. I went thru Artillery OCS with Don Blankin 33B67. Was with A Btry 5 BN 42Arty. We spent a lot of time in and around Tan An. I also moved two of our 155mm towed to support 5th SF at Tra Cu. Thanks for all your service. Mike Timmons Artillery OCS 33B67. artyfovn68@tds.net | ||
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25 Feb 08 |
I called in a lot of rounds from you guys....never a
short round....most of the time it was HE first round...no time for a
smoke round...thanks guys...26 kilo gone
Webmaster Note: Well, 26 kilo, you are one brave sunvagun! Thanks for the kind words. |
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20 Feb 08 |
Great website. You guys saved our butts a
bunch! Thank You! |
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16 Feb 08 |
Very glad to find that the 2/9 has a site – great work!
I have one observation that needs clarification: In the Order of Battle , “C” is listed as direct support for 2/35th Inf. I was HSB 2/9th attached to 1/35th as Artillery Liaison from April 1969 to approximately August 1969 and “C” Battery was the direct support for the 1/35th at that time. Col English was the CO of 1/35th. I can provide documentation for this, but it will take digging out some 4th Div newspaper articles on the hit at LZ Oasis on 11 May 1969 – Mother’s Day. The 1/35th was on stand-down (the 2/35th had been there earlier) when we were hit. “C” Battery set up at the Oasis for the stand down. Anyone there will remember the attack on Mother’s Day. “A” Btry. was direct support for 1/14th Inf. and “B” was the 2/35th direct. I was transferred to liaison between “A” Btry the 1/14th on +/- October 1969 after a stay in the 71st Evac.
Hope this does not cause too much confusion, but I lived and worked too closely with “C” Btry. and the 1/35 grunts to ever forget the connection.
Thanks again for the great site.
Milton Pounds mpounds@charter.net Spec 4, MOS 13E20 HSB 2/9th, Attached 1/35th RVN, 1969 |
