Name: Larry Kahill
Email: ponzi@embarqmail.com
Company: H&S Oct67 to April 68
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Message: Larry had to leave Quang Tri in a hurry. Since he did not have time to gather information on his friends, wondering if you remember him. If so, he would like to hear from you!
Name: Jim Dudula
Email: jimdudula@gmail.com
Company: Delta
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Message: is there anyone from delta 1/3 that was at dia do on 5-4 and 5-5 68 !(If you were with D/1/3 on May 4th or 5th, 1968 at the Battle of Bia Do, please contact Jim! Thanks)
Name: Don Bumgarner (web master)
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Company: Charlie Company 67-68
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Message: VIETNAM WAR VETERANS RECOGNITION ACT to establish the “National Vietnam War Veterans Day,” which will be celebrated on Sunday, March 29, 2020
Hello Guys, Again on March 29, 2020 the United States will be Honoring ALL of us Vietnam Veterans. With being 52 years since I rotated Home from Nam (March 1968), time does go by fast. As you remember back when we came home to the States, we were not accepted well by some in the public. Me personally, though I worked with other Marines, we did not talk much about our experiences in Vietnam. Most of us moved on with our lives. Most that I can tell have had successful lives. I think we are all a little bubble off, but that is okay. Many went to work for the Post Office and some went into Law Enforcement. Maybe we were use to wearing uniforms. Since about 2002, when I found out about a 1st Bn 3rdMarines web site, my life has been better. I have connected with many Marines and Corpsmen that I grew up with. Yes, I was a Kid, but the Marines made me the man I am today. If not for the Marines, I might have got drafted into the Army, or been a Farm boy in Missouri. Looking back, yes we shared some tuff times, and most probably shed some blood, but we grew to be a great Marine Battalion and participated in all the major Battles in Vietnam that happened during each of our tours. Great friendships were made, and today we cherish those friendships. I am honored that the Nation, does put this day aside to Honor Us. We Deserve it, So thank you my Brothers, as we celebrate OUR DAY together, across this Great Nation. Take a moment to remember our Fallen Brothers and say a prayer for them. Enjoy Your Day!
Semper Fidelis, Don Bumgarner C/1/3 67-68 (2-year Marine-L/CPL- hit the promotion wrong-what can I say-100% Marine)
Actually as you might remember my old Captain Jerry Reczek with C/1/3 (66-67), Likes to send a yearly message out at this time. I was talking with Jerry about his message. I asked if he could possibly ask other Officers from 1st Bn 3rd Marines, to share their messages also. So we have Capt J Shirley(retired L/COL) B/1/3, Capt B Landes(retired COL) B/1/3, Capt W Spears(retired CAPT) D/1/3, and Lt S Birkheiser(retired BGEN) 1st Platoon D/1/3 all sharing their thoughts!
March 29th, 2020 National Vietnam Veterans Day In 2017 President Donald Trump signed into law the VIETNAM WAR VETERANS RECOGNITION ACT to establish the “National Vietnam War Veterans Day,” which will be celebrated on Sunday, March 29, 2020.
Capt G. (Jerry) Reczek
March 29th is National Vietnam War Veterans Day and a National Holiday.This is the day designated to honor the service of our country’s Armed Forces veterans who served in the Vietnam War.Our Vietnam War Marines and Sailors have been the most unheralded and underappreciated but most courageous, selfless and most misunderstood generation of Freedom Fighters in modern history.There are those that try to discredit your valor and courage in a vicious and controversial war to affirm their Un-American conduct and protests in the name of peace during a turbulent time in our country. They are the regretful many who today seek comfort and self-assurance for their failure and unfulfilled lives and their part in the history of the Vietnam War.You were the admirable skinny, raggedy Marines and Corpsmen who did your jobs all day and all night, asked for nothing, got nothing, but upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Navy, and the spirit of the American fighting man.I am honored to stand with you, and join with the rest of our country in saluting you this day and every day.
Semper FiGerald F.ReczekCol USMC (Ret) Charlie 6
Email- gravelravel_crusher@hotmail.com
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Capt J C Shirley
National Vietnam War Veterans Day Please use for your plans for National Vietnam War Veterans Day per my call from Col. Reczek. Thanks very much for all your devotion to 1/3 and the website. As you know, March 29th, 2020, is National Vietnam War Veterans Day first set aside in 2008 as a time for the nation to honor the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans and their families in a war that lasted from 1950 to 1975.To those of you who served in Vietnam ((and particularly to those who served with me 53 years ago in Bravo Company, 1/3 Marines, from December 1966 to June 1967 at Khe Sanh (before the siege), the Beaver Cage Operation and Beau Charger Operation)), this day of observance and thanks is long overdue. You can take pride in the fact that you answered the call of your nation when many refused to do so.Your courage in combat in demanding circumstances was admirable. You always courageously carried the attack to a formidable opponent and prevailed (even in many instances with a defective rifle). We lost many good Marines and Corpsmen whose ultimate sacrifice we will never forget. Your bravery and esprit reflected a common spirit and inspired enthusiasm, devotion and camaraderie. and upheld the highest traditions of 1/3, the Corps and Navy Corpsmen. My best wishes and thanks to each of you and your families.
J.C. ShirleyLtCol USMC (Ret)
Email-
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Capt Landes
Don: Jerry Reczek kindly asked me to consider sending on a message for the Marines of 1/3 we served with during the Vietnam War in commemoration of National Vietnam Veterans Day. Here is my humble attempt to do so. Please feel free to pass it on if you think it worthy. If not, we all know what “deep six it” means! And thanks for all you do on behalf of those who served in First Battalion, Third Marines and in our Corps. “On this, National Vietnam Veterans Day 2020, I wish to pay tribute to those I served with in Vietnam, specifically the Marines and Corpsmen of Bravo Company, First Battalion, Third Marines, and generally, all the Marines and Corpsmen of the FirstBattalion, Third Marines. The opposite of fear is not courage alone. Rather, it is the combination of bravery in the face of death and faith in the Marine on your right and the Marine on your left. You were individually and collectively a fearless and faithful group of warriors. I will never forget you, or those heroes who did not return home or who came back damaged in body and mind to the disdain and disapproval of so many countrymen and women. The highlight of my life, with the exception of my marriage and family, was the honor and privilege of serving with men such as you at the point-of-the-spear. Semper Fidelis and welcome home. Burrell H. Landes Jr.B 1/3 Vietnam” Thanks again for the opportunity to say a few words Don.
Semper Fi & all that, Burrell H. Landes Jr.USMC 1955-1985
bhanon@comcast.net Phone 303-734-1458
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Capt W Spear
I am writing on behalf of Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines to acknowledge all those who participated in an estimated 23 operations between 1967 and 1968, as SLF-A. As a platoon leader of the Second Platoon in Delta Company from March 1967 to October 1967, I feel qualified to write a memorial in memory of my Marines/ Corpsmen with whom I served. Marines in Vietnam were not mercenaries. We served our country and the Marine Corps without hesitation. And all gave their blood, sweat and pain as only combat marines can do. Who am I to memorialize the Marines that gave their lives in Vietnam? Who am I to remember names, places, times and dates of those Marines that were in my platoon when they gave the ultimate sacrifice? To all who are reading this message, you have my assurance that I have never forgotten any of my men; I have carried with me the names and our experiences during my life time. Who am I to tell you anything about the war in Vietnam that you don’t already know? As an officer of Delta Company 1/3, I ask all Marines/Corpsmen of D-1-3 to participate in some way to commemorate our fallen Marines. God bless those who continue to engage and contribute across our country to the needs of the wounded, homeless and any other Marines that need help.
Semper Fidelis! Winfield SpearCapt., USMC (Ret.)
1954 – 1984 (Lifer)Email-
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Gen Birkheiser,
Fellow Combat Veterans of First Battalion Third Marines. As we approach The Vietnam Memorial Commemoration this year I remember faces, places, funny stories and tragic losses. But my memories of 1967 as a young Lieutenant focus on what our that tour of duty taught me as a Marine and as a man. I have to say that I truly felt the training I received in Quantico prepared me as well as could be expected. But the nature of that war, how it was perceived at home and at the highest echelons on the Marine Corps was surreal. There were plenty of personal and national opinions but not those of support by a grateful nation, nor a clear national strategy. We quickly became “The New Old Breed” of Marines This was not a Strategic War but rather a brawl where Company Level Leadership was the key. In this new breed, NCOs were directing the fight while junior officers were directing the battlefield and coordinating supporting arms. The responsibilities of 18- 25 year old Marines was greater I believe than that of the WW II and Korean War campaigns with Division and Regimental Leadership involved in large scale maneuvers. If I could have wished for anything after returning from Vietnam it would have been that the parents of our young Marines could have witnessed for just one day, their sons grit, courage and love for one another.
Lieutenant, Steve Berkheiser Delta 1/3
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I want to thank all the above Officers for your treasured comments! We the Marines and Corpsmen of 1st Bn 3rd Marines will walk taller, have a smile on our faces, and thinking of how grateful we are to all of you! Your time spent saying these words to us, is much appreciated too. Thank You again and again!!!!!!!!!!
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Name: Albert (Mike) Hill
Email: mikeusmc1@hotmail.com
Company: Inquiring about Charlie Co KIA Dec 8th, 1968 Operation Taylor Common
Message: High school classmates of P.F.C. Fred Gertzen c co 1st bn. 3rd Mar div K.I.A. on 12/o8 1968 would like anybody who knew or served with Fred to please e-mail me at mikeusmc1@hotmail.com they are still grieving and would like some closure and honor Fred’s memory!
Semper Fi
Mike u.s.m.c. 1968 -1972 (Golf 2/9) Vietnam 1969
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Name: Bill Forbes
Email: bforbes@longlines.com
Company: Charlie Company-May 1969-Doc Greg Anderson
Message: My very good friend Greg (Doc) Andersen served as a corpsman with the 1st Battalion, Third Marines, Charlie Co. He served in Viet Nam in 1969. Unfortunately, Greg passed away from cancer on Christmas Day, 2018. Occasionally, Greg would would discuss his time in Viet Nam. On one such occasion, after a skirmish, his exec officer told him that he was putting Greg and another Corpsman up for medals for their actions during the skirmish. The XO said he would have to wait until after the company rotated back to the rear before he filed the paper work. Unfortunately, neither Greg nor the other corpsman heard anything more about the medal. I, along with another close friend of Greg’s, am trying to get Greg the Bronze Star that I am sure he earned. The above skirmish occurred sometime in May of 1969. If anyone can help us, please contact me-(712)372-4578 or the above e-mail .
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Name: John Michael Rivers
Email: oii.johnrivers@gmail.com
Company: Bravo Company Sept 10, 1968 Operation Lancaster II
Message{ My Cousin PFC Juan Porras B Co, 1st Bn, 3rd Marine Regiment ( Fallen Sept 10th 1968 Mutter’s Ridge ) I was born 10 months after my cousin lost his life. I am just looking for any information about Juan or B company during Sept 1968. Any information or book recommendations would be very helpful. Thank you for your time and your service to all that served.
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Name: Michael Peltier
Email: mpelt@burlingtontelecom.net
Company: H&S
Message: Nicely done! Brought back many memories for me.
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Name: Don Bumgarner Web Master
Email : dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Company: Charlie Company 1/3 67-68
Message: Reminder that the 3rd Marine Division Reunion, that 1st Battalion 3rd Marines Association is a part of will be in the Washington DC Area at the Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel between Tuesday August 11th and Sunday August 16th, 2020. Now is the time to mark those new calendars you will be using. Hope to see you there, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
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Name: George Reinschling
Email: greischling@hotmail.com
Company: Army-3/22nd- 25th Infantry Vietnam-69/70
Message:
I came upon your site while surfing the net and knew that the above statement would have special meaning for you. Different units, different areas of training but we all worked together to accomplish the same mission and objective. Vietnam has left us all with many memories of those with whom we served and those who didn’t make it back. I served with 3/22nd, 25th Infantry Division out of Tay Ninh as an infantryman. Fought the NVA on the slopes of Nui Ba Den twice with numerous firefights in and around the area bordering the Cambodian border. Remember your Christmas in Vietnam? Mine was spent on an ambush patrol near the Cambodian border. Awarded Purple Heart and three Bronze Stars with “V”. After 5 months in the field, I was pulled to the 93rd Evac at Long Binh to work with soldiers suffering from combat fatigue. Coming home was one of the most difficult parts of our tours. Over the last 10 years, I chronicled my tour of duty and the response has been overwhelming. There are presently over One Hundred 5 Star Reviews worldwide. It’s free to Amazon Prime members. Courage on the Mountain
Thousands of Vietnam Veterans have proudly endorsed these memoirs. Please check out the website at courageonthemountain.com with the accompanying introduction. It will make you proud for your service and all the men and women who served our country during the Vietnam war.
I proud that you made it home brother! Thank you for your service and May God Bless!
George Reischling
Courage on the Mountain
courageonthemountain.com
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Name: Don Bumgarner C/1/3 67-68
Email: dbumc13usmc#verizon.net
Reunion in Branson, Missouri Sept 17th to 22nd
Message: The 3rd Mar Div Reunion which 1/3 participated in is over, but it was a Great Time had by all there. 1/3 was well represented, with lots from Charlie Company Folks. Bravo Company which had a return Trip to Vietnam earlier this year, had the most 1/3 Marines and Corpsmen there. There were a few first timers there too. I want to Thank all that made the Reunion. The 1/3 Bunker was the place to be. We were honored to have the daughter of S/SGT John J Malloy, KIA on Operation Buffalo, July 6th, 1967 spend time with us from Charlie Company. Colleen and David Black got to meet many Marines that served with her father. She and her husband attended the Banquet as Our Guest. Three of us from Charlie Company also had Our Daughters there, which added to our enjoyment. Want to thank those daughters too. Next year the Reunion will be in the Washington D.C.Area, at the Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel between Aug 11th and Aug 16th, 2020. . Mark your calendars now. It should be another Great Reunion. Hope you can all make that one. We are getting older, and if you haven’t been to a Reunion, you don’t know what you are missing Start planning now! Semper Fidelis, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
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Name: Jim Dulua
Email: jimdudula13@gmail.comEmail:
Company: Delta co 1/3 68-69
Message: Was in Dia Do 5-5-68Message:
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Name: Tom Frate
Email: tomfrate@verizon.net
Delta 1/3 67-68
Message: Would like to hear from anyone especially those who participated in the battle of DiaDo.
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Name: John O’Brien
Email: seasoldier_usmc@hotmail.com
Charlie Co 1st Bn 3rd Marines
Message:
Subject; Dai Do
I was at Dai Do, my memory is hazy but did we come in on the 2bd day or the 3rd day. I know Bravo Co caught hell, and I am positive I met one of their radio men during the battle. There’s not much written about Charlie Co in the book The Magnificent Bastatrds. I’m pretty sure Charlie Co was north of Dai Do, but wherever we were we killed hundreds of NVA and took many casualties. 2/4 should rightly be given the due, but 1/3 was in that fight to including all our companies. I just can’t remember if we got there by chopper or Amtrak. If anyone has a better memory than me please respond back.
Semper Fi
Jack O’Brien
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Name: Kevin Strickland “Kansas”
Email: kcshankland.mpa@gmail.com
Company: Charlie Aug-68-Aug69
Message:
Submitting this on behalf of my dad, Kevin ‘Pat’ Shankland – ‘Kansas’. He spent Aug 68 – Aug 69 with Charlie Company. Just turned 70, doing great, has lived a heck of a life. He went on a ‘wounded warrior’ fishing trip last month that had a Recon Marine from the same era and said he had a great time swapping stories, some they had in common. I told him I thought I could find more online if he was interested, and found the Sept reunion in Branson. He is curious if anyone he might know is planning on going?
Thanks Don, I figured it out!
KC Shankland
425-358-1552
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Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Charlie Co- Web Master
Karen (Fitzgerald) Marino, the last entry, the Daughter of William E Fitzgerald, has sent me lots of pictures he had taken during his time in Vietnam. He was possibly either in Bravo or Delta Company 1st Bn 3rd Marines. He had gone to Vietnam in May 1966. His pictures appear to be from around Da Nang area, Khe Sahn area, Camp Schwab Okinawa, and SLF-A. Think he was WIA on May 10th, 67 and possibly again 2nd time on Operation Beau Charger. He had a 1st platoon roster with Lt O Dell Plt Com, S/Sgt Taeveo Plt Sgt, and Cpl Matthews. Fitzgerald was 1st Squad M-79 guy. His pictures are Great! If you were in Bravo or Delta Company 1st Squad then(May 66 to May 67) please check the pictures out. Your picture might be there. One of the pictures is the Platoon picture at Camp Schwab. The pictures are in the “Other Vietnam pictures” section. If you served with Fitzgerald, his daughter would like to hear from you too. Thanks to her, we have these pictures to Share. Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
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Name: Karen (Fitzerald) Marino
Email: Karenmarino@vermontlaw.edu
1st Bn/3rd Marines – Father L/Cpl William E. Fitzgerald
My father was Lance Corporal William E. Fitzgerald. He Served in Vietnam from about 1966-1968. I have over 100 photos that he brought home from Vietnam that I would love to contribute to your page. Please email me so that I may send them to you. He was in the 1st Battalion 3rd Marines stationed at some point in the Quantri Province. My photos were also shared on the facebook page Vietnam Veterans photo club. My father passed away several years ago from complications of lung cancer. He had been exposed to Agent Orange. I hope to get these photos to the family members of the brave men who served alongside my father. Thank you all for your service and sacrifice. Welcome home.
Sincerely,
Karen (Fitzgerald) Marino
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Name: Don Bumgarner Web Master
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Charlie Co Re: Jack Rabinovitz below
Message: From the History of 1st Bn 3rd Marines in Vietnam 65-69 that I have compiled through the years, Cpl Jack Rabinovitz it shows him, listed as KIA in 23Feb66. I checked the Coffelt Data Base, there under his name it indicated that Jack was WIA on 14Feb66 and died 23Feb66 at Oakland Naval Hosp. He was wounded when Amtrac hits a mine 5 KM W-SW Nam-O Bridge, Quang Nam Province, South Vietnam. Checking the 1/3 History for 14Feb66:
14Feb66 ***** Co.C- Lead Amtrac of 3 involved in transportation of elements
involved in S&D operation at Truang Dinh hit a land Mine 5-Kia’s,
21-Wia’s, and 1-ARVN-Kia *****
14Feb66 (KIA / Fallen) PFC AVERY, A. J. Co: “C”
CPL GOGGAN, H. G. Co: “C”
PFC MARKS, R. E. Co: “C”
PFC NICHOLS, E. W. Co: “C”
LCPL WAYMAN, B. R. Co: “C”
14Feb66 AWARDED the SILVER STAR Co: “D” 1LT John D. DALHOUSE
(Citation) The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant John Dudley Dalhouse (MCSN: 0-89075), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. While returning from friendly lines on 14 February 1966, a Marine amphibian tractor struck and detonated a large insurgent communist (Viet Cong) mine, immediately bursting into flames. Atop a hill three hundred meters away, First Lieutenant Dalhouse saw the blazing, crippled tractor and immediately dashed down the hill to render aid to any survivors. Seeing a group of Marines trapped inside, First Lieutenant Dalhouse, with complete disregard for his own safety, fought his way through the flames to gain entrance to the vehicle. Undaunted by a secondary explosion and the danger of exploding small arms ammunition and grenades, First Lieutenant Dalhouse entered the tractor and found one of the men still alive, though unconscious. Unhesitatingly, he carried the Marine out of the inferno to safety and began administering first aid as another explosion rocket the amphibian tractor, making a second entrance impossible. Ignoring his own suffering from burns, First Lieutenant Dalhouse continued to help prepare the Marine for evacuation by helicopter. By his courageous actions, bold initiative and uncommon concern for the welfare of others at great risk to his own safety, First Lieutenant Dalhouse upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
14Feb66 AWARDED the SILVER STAR Co: “D” HM3 Thomas A. MULLEN
(Citation) The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Thomas A. Mullen (NSN: 9037446), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman with Company D, First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 14 February 1966, Hospitalman Mullen was established with his unit at an observation post near the hamlet of Le My when an amphibian tractor, operating about three hundred meters away, detonated a land mine and burst into flames. Grabbing his medical kit, Hospitalman Mullen raced to help the occupants of the tractor. Undaunted by the ammunition which was exploding in the fierce fire, he was treating the wounded men who had been blown off the top of the tractor when he noticed that one casualty was still trapped inside. Making his way through ten feet of waist deep mud, he entered the blazing tractor and pulled the wounded Marine to safety. As he smothered the man’s burning clothing with his hands, he used his own body to shield the man from further danger as the tractor continued to burn, then exploded a second time. His swift treatment of the wounded men significantly eased their suffering and undoubtedly saved the lives of many. By his exceptional bravery at great risk of his life, superior professional skill and unfaltering dedication to duty throughout, Hospitalman Mullen upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Cpl Rabinovitz was a 0331-Machine Gunner with C/1/3 and Died of his wounds. He is buried in Koretzer Cementery in West Roxbury, MA.
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Name: Francis P. Losi
Email: fplosi6@gmail.com
Company: Charlie Co. Incident in Vietnam 14Feb66
Message: Subject: Jackie Rabonivitz
Dear Don;
I just wanted to let you know. I and my family lived right next door to Jackie Rabonivitz. In Dorchester Massachusetts. Dorchester is a section of Boston, Massachusetts. I didn’t really know Jackie very well as I was 11 when Jackie was In the Marine Corps. I do remember him returning from boot camp and hanging with his friends. However, I will never, EVER forget the summer night that his mother screamed when she found out that Jackie was critically wounded/mortally wounded. My mother went next door to try to comfort her. Jackie died, but I think that his parents were able to see him before he passed. I, and my siblings attended his wake. I have never forgotten the ultimate sacrifice that Jackie made. I enlisted in the Navy Reserves in 1982. After three or so years I was commissioned as an intelligence officer. In 1990, I had to go to Washington DC on official Navy Business. It was the first time that I’d have ever been to DC. We had a little free time. I went to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and found Jackie’s name on 5E. I have a penciled paper of his name…
Many years later I served as an embedded as a JIEDDO IED network contractor analyst with 3/7 and 1/7 in Sangin District, Helmand Province, Afghnistan in 2011/2012. It was the most gratifying intelligence experience I’ve had in over 40 years. May God bless you, 1/3, and the United States Marine Corps.
Respectfully;
CAPT Francis P. Losi USN (Ret.)
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Name: Don Bumgarner
Email:dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Company: Charlie Company 67-68
Message: Fifty Two years ago today, WE in Charlie Company 1/3 were involved in a big Battle with NVA while on a Search and Destroy Mission by Hill 110 in Que Son Valley. Charlie Company lost L/Cpl J M BISHOP, Cpl A L BROWN, PFC J R COOPER, PFC A J DARLING III, L/Cpl D M HART, Cpl J M REID, and Cpl T SANDERS with more than 20 WIA. Cpl Reid and Cpl Sander both Awarded the Navy Cross Posthumously for their Heroic Actions that day. The Battalion lost a total 22-KIA and 88-WIA that day! May 10th, 1967 was a TUFF Day for us all. HOPE all of you Fallen Brothers continue to RIP! We still miss you and think of you too. Jim Cooper was a good Buddy of mine and Ken Burkitt. Jim, Ken, and I were My Mom’s “Three Marines”!
Semper Fidelis, Rest in Peace, and know you are missed and Loved.
Don B C/1/3 67-68.
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Don Bumgarner Web Master
What L/Cpl Antonio R. Ramos entry below, is talking about is Operation Beaver Cage April 28th to May 12th 1967, 52 years ago,in the Que Son Valley. On May 2nd Charlie Company was ambushed, then on May 3rd Alpha Company had the Water-Run fiasco (what Ramos is talking about), and then on the May 4th Delta Company had a big Battle. It was a Tuff 3 days for 1st Bn 3rd Marines SLF-A. Our tuffest day was yet to come, May 10th Bravo, Charlie and Delta Companies involved in day long Battle by Hill 55 I think, the Battalion sustained 22_KIA, 88-WIA with 3-Navy Crosses Awarded Posthumously and other Silver and Bronze Stars Awarded also. It was one TUFF Operation, and one that WE who were there will never forget, and THIS Time of Year, WE always REMEMBER Our Fallen Brothers! RIP all you Hero’s! Semper Fidelis My Brothers!
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Name: L/cpl Antonio R. Ramos
Email:royalbunch@msn.com
Company: H&S 3 Shore Party Man
Message: May 3, 2019. A day like today about this time of the day, a volunteer squad mostly form A Co. walked out the perimeter, loaded with canteen for a Water run to the nearby river. They were ambushed and 14 brothers lost their lives. As Shore Party man I have to put the wounded in the choppers, help pick up 3 of the dead the next day. Did not know them well since we have only being 5 days ashore. I will always remember them and so I memorialize them today. Semper Fi. Antonio
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Name: Lee Kaiser
Email:leegkaiser@aol.com
Company: M co 3/4 3rd MarDiv
Message: Looking for anyone who remember’s M 60 Gunner Freeman, RIP on your Vietnam Memorial May 27 68 LZ Peanuts, SF
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Name: Don Bumgarner
Email:DBumC13USMC@Verizon.net
Company: Charlie Co 67-68
Message: Hello Everyone, I’m Don Bumgarner the web master here at OUR web site. I am trying to add new pictures and update muster ins, and Guest Book entries almost every day. So if you have pictures to share send them to me, or a War Story to share, send it in, we will enjoy reading it. REMEMBER, this is OUR (ALL 1/3 Marines and Corpsmen)Web Site. Hope to here from you all soon. Semper Fidelis, Don B C/1/3 67-68
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Name: george a kirby
Email:georgekirby50@msn.com
Company: 1949h7sco, blt 1/3, 3d marregt, kaneohe bay, hi
Message: talked to don via landline re: the upcoming reunion in branson. i am retired and living in cleveland, oh. address: george kirby, 3814 mapledale ave, cleveland, oh 44109. ph 216-346-5282. retired from usmc 1988, retired from cleveland police 2014. welcome all messagers from fellow marines and their families.
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From: Douglas Lemieux <oldsaltdoug@yahoo.com>
(Response to story submitted by Charles Hull, shown below)
Charles
I remember the beach scene coming in on landing craft. . Remember Walt’s speech. He was a mother fucker on Guadalcanal. I believe they had a marching band also. Some Vietnam dignitaries. Sure wasn’t Tarawa. I was with H&S then as Legal. Transferred to weapons upon our arrival. I never thought of the disruption that my entry would make in Cpl Dawn’s squad until decades later, as, like you said, you guys had been together for a long time. Went through NTA and Raider school with Bravo and Captain Hunt. I was transferred in to 3/5 early 1965, and Lt. Herkel was S-1 chief and assigned me to Legal. I couldn’t type worth a shit. Hunt and pecked my way through. Argued the best I could to go to line company. Other 3 guys I came with from San Diego all went to line companies I had flunked out of Electronics school in summer of 1964. No math aptitude. Kept on at Electronics school office, played intramural football and base football in ‘64. Johnson ended special services with buildup. Hence all of our transfers. I keep noticing that on Mallard’s op reports there is no mention, ever, of Corporal Larry Fleming’s death, and PFC Lopez’ wounding with Bravo. 1/17/66 I believe is etched in my brain as I was one of 4 who carried Larry’s body to medevac. I had just talked to him about 15 minutes before when firing opened up from his squad area. Gook in spider hole jumped up and got both of them. I did a lot of patrols and ambushes attached to his squad with my gun team. Not doing any reunions. Never did any in past, except for Lt. Martin’s one at his home in Booneville, NY IN 1999. That was enough. I had spent 3 years going through PTSD psych shit at Hines hospital after getting fired from numerous jobs. I never was a social butterfly after Nam. Forced myself to participate. Thought I was normal. First wife coerced me into marriage. That ended in disaster. 67-81. Remained close after divorce. She wrote 8 page letter which got my 100%. I was Better off on my own. Don’t like stress brought into my life. Dealing with some now. Dropped off evening news shows. Skim through them.
Trapped one raccoon so have to take for long ride at daylight. 3 more were on camera. Never ends. Painted old pontoon with Rustoleum yesterday. Took a beating in hurricane Irma. Thanks for 1/3 website and story. Queen originally started that website in 90’s. Other guys took it over. He and I had our dispute so moved on. I was just REMF to him. I didn’t realize that.
Doug Lemieuxoldsaltdoug@yahoo.com
********************************************************
Name: Charles Hull
Email:chgr07@cox.net
Company: Charlie Company
If you were also there during the landing, please add in a comment or two to the text below and share that experience…..
Message: Great job on the web site Don….so far its the best I’ve seen. I was with both Alpha and Charlie company 1965′- 66 and the company rosters remind me of several shared experiences I have had with many of those you have listed……not my wish to re-live war stories so I will refrain from KIA / WIA entries, ……..instead, I will share in specific, the experience of my landing in Nam…18 November 1965 I was a 22 year old L/cpl with the Lima Co 3/5 and most of us had trained together for over 18 months……Still, I was unaware and did not expect that when I joined the Marines in 1963 of having to deal with this type situation ……Let’s briefly re-live that experience :
The beach landing at Danang and operation Mallard stand out as being the most significant: The beach landing was my intro to Vietnam and I consider it to be the doctorate degree for all the wet net training I’ve ever had, and operation Mallard as being a true test of : Courage under fire!
THE LANDING 17-18 NOV ’65: sat off the coast aboard ship, on deck that evening after chow, watching the explosions, tracers, and other sights / sounds prep for the landing. Officers and platoon Sgts ordered us below deck …said we would only get about four hours sleep. The gunny gives us a pep talk and other words of encouragement. We sort gear and assemble our packs, staff and officers meet lights out, few if any of us are able to sleep…. minutes past….. Reveille, I’m already dressed, get my #2 done (may be the last), rinse hands and face, line up for chow….. call to debark stations start immediately, landing craft lowered, slam down the lukewarm SOS and potatoes, get below on my gear assemble, and head up to the debark station.
It’s dusk before dawn, slight chill in the air, and poor visibility. “NEXT FOUR!” is yelled out in the midst of all the other activity around me. We four get on the net somewhat in sync and start our decent, concentrating on the placement of our hands and feet trying not to step on the Marines underneath us or get stepped on by the Marines above, the landing craft going erratically up and down, from 15 to 50 feet beneath you …..in an instant and we all bang off the side of the ship totally in sync with the chaos. Hold on, don’t look down, listen for the command that will free you from the net. An M-14 falls into the ocean lost forever…..a Marine pukes down on another, him and his entire family is disparaged…another Marine gets trapped between the ship and the landing craft, severely injured. We are ordered to hold our positions until they retrieve him…….he’s done ankle snapped and pulverized…then, an M-60 machine gun, not properly lashed / secured gets lost in the ocean …..there’s a panic on the top deck and suddenly nobody is talking….our decent is delayed…..
This delay adds to the fatigue and exhaustion we already have from the weight of our field transport pack, ammo and weapons, DON’T LOOK DOWN !! You’re dead if you do !! They give the word, we start down again to be suddenly met by the landing craft on the way up from 50 feet below. Forced to let go, we crash onto the deck, slip on the puke, swear, struggle, recover and take the position of the Marines that held the net for us, a Marine freezes on the net two marines near him talk him down. Nobody laughs or jokes all is silent except for commands and the engine exhaust.
The looks on our faces and in our eyes told the story,” This was the real deal!”
Now loaded, we circle around in groups of four: Port, starboard, fore, and aft of the ship now in full daylight, for an eternity. Inhaling fumes, nausea, gagging and puking, some of us seasick and unable to stand….and grappling with fears we have never known…..a state of ‘depersonalization’ occurs … Finally we head in for the landing. “KEEP YOUR HEADS DOWN, SNIPERS HAVE BEEN SIGHTED!” this was one of those ‘piss yo pants moments’
We arrive, the ramp drops, we step off in four feet of water, some go under, like me, but recover and wade ashore. Vietnamese kids and their mothers / vendors greet and try to sell us sodas!!….it was like some kind of side show with the whole world watching…….(something clicked in my head, this was just wrong, not appropriate for discussion here)
Many of us proceed to share our mixed emotions and utter numerous expletives toward anyone within sight or hearing. Officers and SNCO’s start calling for formations, companies are assembled. General Walt greets us with the chilling fact that within the next 3 days or less, some of us will die, leaving each of us with our own thoughts, looking left and right, front and rear wondering “who would be the first to get it?” and hoping it was not you.
Many of those who went over the side and down the net that day have passed on …May They Rest In Peace ….. Fortunately via this site and the 2012 reunion / Don Bumgardner’s efforts I was able to connect with 8 Nam brothers, same company / platoon / fox holes, also there ………
And finally, any Marines I might have served with back then (not too many of us left) please send me an email I would love to hear from you just to catch up or share a story. Have a Great Day Marines Semper Fi !
Name: MSgt Charles Hull (ret) (In this pic , taken within the hour after our landing, I am standing to the left of the generals’ elbow , edge of pic, hands gripping flack jacket, a very much scared but pissed off Lcpl with an M-14……if you weren’t in a Marine, Army, uniform, you were the enemy………one questionable look or move would get you shot……
**********************************************************************
Name: James E. Tate
Email:binarynut@comcast.net
Company: A Co. and H&S- S4
Message: S/Sgt Tate, I served two tours in Vietnam.
1963 with the Helicopter from 1st Marine Airwing at Danang Airfield, Flying Shotgun on Helicopters transporting South Vietnam Army into Combat zones. We where Infantry (Hughes Helllions) from the 3rdMar Div, to help help protect are helicopters if they got shot down.
1966-67 1/3 H&S-S4, S4 chief with Capt Reycek, one of the best officer I served with my 10 years in the Corps.
*************************************************************
Name: Dennis Boatman
Email:dddboat@yahoo.com
Company: Charlie
Message: I was in 1squad guns 67 68 I think I remember you at c4. Sg. Art was my squad leader. I was a gun teem leader at c4.
S/F Dennis
********************************************************
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email:dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Company: Charlie Company
Message: Hello Guys, Just wanted to let you know YES “OUR” Web Site is up and running I am in the process of down-loading all my Vietnam Pictures. If you have some pictures you want to share from Vietnam Era, send them to me or Dustin and and they will be added to the “Other’s Vietnam Pictures”. If there are other younger Marines with pictures from Iraq or Afghanistan we will make a section for them. This web site is for 1st Battalion 3rd Marines, ALL MARINES and CORPSMEN (past, present, and future). Also if you have pictures from any of the past Reunions, send those that you wish to share. At the Reunions, I hear a lot of War Stories, “YOUR” Memories are worth sharing too. If you will check your Company Roster and confirm the information is correct for yourself, if not let us know in a new Muster In, we will Update the Roster. The History of 1/3 in Vietnam 65-69 that a lot of you look at the Reunions, it is also here too. Hope you ALL enjoy OUR web site, Semper Fidelis Don Bumgarner web master.
*************************************************************
Name: Charlie Six
Email:gravel_crusher@hotmail.com
Company: Charlie Company
Message: National Vietnam Veterans Day March 29, 2019
Message from Capt Reczek CO Charlie Co SLF-A 1967 Vietnam
March 29, 2019 is National Vietnam Veterans Day. Reflecting on this time in our country’s history,and the part that the U.S. Marine Corps played in it , i believe
that the 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines stands-out for their combat record and success in the execution of its missions during the war in Vietnam.
You fought in a war that was a “Happening” of your Generation. You returned home to a unappreciative country. You put your futures on-hold
to be there with your brothers who were serving our country , defending freedom against a Revolutionary Military Campaign to overthrow
a free country , and destroy those who opposed them. It was a war of revolution that became known as “Nam” to those who fought there.
Beside the Civil War, Vietnam was the most controversial and divisive war that our country undertook. The U,S, commitment was
reactive and its undertaking questioned.
The historical preface to what would become known as the Vietnam War , was brutally depicted in the book ,”The Street Without Joy”, written
by Bernard Fall. He was later killed accompanying a U.S. Marine patrol on the Street Without Joy in central I Corps in 1968 or 69.
You are still what you were then_ United States Marines and Sailors of the 1st Battalion,3rd Marines —Vietnam War Veterans.
Your footprints were left all over I Corps. Virtually in every contested combat area,zone,valley or island,you were there. You were called
upon repeatedly; operation-after-operation. You prevailed. In Bernard Fall’s book, the Viet Minh over whelmed the French forces during
the Indochina War from 1946 to 1953. They tried to do the same against you, but could not. They failed—you won! You are the Victors.
Semper Fidelis
Gerald F. Reczek, Colonel, USMC, [Ret]
Charlie Six
*****************************************************************
Name: Msgt Charles Hull USMC (ret)
Email:chgr07@outlook.com
Company: Alpha-Charlie
Message: Great job on the web site Don….so far its the best I’ve seen. I was with both Alpha and Charlie company 1965′- 66 and the company rosters remind me of several shared experiences I have had with many of those you have listed……not my wish to re-live war stories so I will refrain from KIA / WIA entries, ……..instead, I will share in specific, the experience of my landing in Nam…18 November 1965 I was a 22 year old L/cpl with the Lima Co 3/5 and most of us had trained together for over 18 months……Still, I was unaware and did not expect that when I joined the Marines in 1963 of having to deal with this type situation ……Let’s briefly re-live that experience :
The beach landing at Danang and operation Mallard stand out as being the most significant: The beach landing was my intro to Vietnam and I consider it to be the doctorate degree for all the wet net training I’ve ever had, and operation Mallard as being a true test of : Courage under fire!
THE LANDING 17-18 NOV ’65: sat off the coast aboard ship, on deck that evening after chow, watching the explosions, tracers, and other sights / sounds prep for the landing. Officers and platoon Sgts ordered us below deck …said we would only get about four hours sleep. The gunny gives us a pep talk and other words of encouragement. We sort gear and assemble our packs, staff and officers meet lights out, few if any of us are able to sleep…. minutes past….. Reveille, I’m already dressed, get my #2 done (may be the last), rinse hands and face, line up for chow….. call to debark stations start immediately, landing craft lowered, slam down the lukewarm SOS and potatoes, get below on my gear assemble, and head up to the debark station.
It’s dusk before dawn, slight chill in the air, and poor visibility. “NEXT FOUR!” is yelled out in the midst of all the other activity around me. We four get on the net somewhat in sync and start our decent, concentrating on the placement of our hands and feet trying not to step on the Marines underneath us or get stepped on by the Marines above, the landing craft going erratically up and down, from 15 to 50 feet beneath you …..in an instant and we all bang off the side of the ship totally in sync with the chaos. Hold on, don’t look down, listen for the command that will free you from the net. An M-14 falls into the ocean lost forever…..a Marine pukes down on another, him and his entire family is disparaged…another Marine gets trapped between the ship and the landing craft, severely injured. We are ordered to hold our positions until they retrieve him…….he’s done. ankle snapped and pulverized…then, an M-60 machine gun, not properly lashed / secured gets lost in the ocean …..there’s a panic on the top deck and suddenly nobody is talking….our decent is delayed…..
This delay adds to the fatigue and exhaustion we already have from the weight of our field transport pack, ammo and weapons, DON’T LOOK DOWN !! You’re dead if you do !! They give the word, we start down again to be suddenly met by the landing craft on the way up from 50 feet below. Forced to let go, we crash onto the deck, slip on the puke, swear, struggle, recover and take the position of the Marines that held the net for us, a Marine freezes on the net two marines near him talk him down. Nobody laughs or jokes all is silent except for commands and the engine exhaust.
The looks on our faces and in our eyes told the story,” This was the real deal!”
Now loaded, we circle around in groups of four: Port, starboard, fore, and aft of the ship now in full daylight, for an eternity. Inhaling fumes, nausea, gagging and puking, some of us seasick and unable to stand….and grappling with fears we have never known…..a state of ‘depersonalization’ occurs … Finally we head in for the landing. “KEEP YOUR HEADS DOWN, SNIPERS HAVE BEEN SIGHTED!” this was one of those ‘piss yo pants moments’
We arrive, the ramp drops, we step off in four feet of water, some go under, like me, but recover and wade ashore. Vietnamese kids and their mothers / vendors greet and try to sell us sodas!!….it was like some kind of side show with the whole world watching…….(something clicked in my head, this was just wrong, not appropriate for discussion here)
Many of us proceed to share our mixed emotions and utter numerous expletives toward anyone within sight or hearing. Officers and SNCO’s start calling for formations, companies are assembled. General Walt greets us with the chilling fact that within the next 3 days or less, some of us will die, leaving each of us with our own thoughts, looking left and right, front and rear wondering “who would be the first to get it?” and hoping it was not you.
Many of those who went over the side and down the net that day have passed on …May They Rest In Peace ….. Fortunately via this site and the 2012 reunion / Don Bumgardner’s effrorts I was able to connect with 8 Nam brothers, same company / platoon / fox holes, also there ……… Semper Fi Don
And finally, any Marines I might have served with back then (not too many of us left) please send me an email I would love to hear from you just to catch up or share a story. Have a Great Day Marines .Semper Fi.
******************************************************************
)
Name: MGySgt David Crawford USMC(ret)
Email:davidusmc76@comcast.net
Company:
Message: Great job on the web site. I was reading about Operation Beaver Cage in May of 1967 and what the Marines went thru. I was only 9 years old at that time but remember those days because my cousin “one of your Marines” was killed there on May 10th 1967 “Cpl. John Michael Reid” and on the day I was leaving my house to go to his funeral the Marines pulled to my house to tell my Mother that my Dad who was also a Marine was wounded at the hill fights in Khe Sanh by hill 861. It has always stuck in my head and one of the reasons I joined the Marines after H.S. in 1976. I will never forget the sacrifices that you Marines went thru in those years and I will always honor you along with all Marines. I am retired from the Marines now but I have to thank one of your Marines who helped me out a few years ago to find out more about my cousin and that Marine is Don Bumgarner, Semper Fi. brother. If anyone ever comes across any pictures of my cousin back in those day please send me a copy or just to share a story. Have a Great Day Marines and thank you for your service…..Semper Fi.
**************************************************************
Name: MGySgt Stephen F, (Steve) Reep (ret)
Email:topreep@bellsouth.net
Company:
Message: Best wishes to all who have served in Bravo Company and those presently serving in Bravo Company. Especially our comrades from 1967-1968. Love you brothers and won my life to you guys serving with me on July 7 1968.
cannot wait to meet up in Branson this September.
Semper Fidelis you Teufelhunden.
*************************************************************
Name: Larry Evans
Email:orange123-652@hotmail.com
Company:
Message: My Best friend James Alex Jenkins ( Jinx) was KIA May 20,1969 during Operation Virginia Ridge He was Awarded the Silver Star as you have Listed Here , He was put in for the Navy Cross but his Captain thought a more fitting award the Silver Star, After i returned May 69 we got the Dreaded news 13 days later, Though I am not a Marine and a Retired Navy Senior Chief < I would like to reach out to any Marine Serving with him to contact me , I am Married to James Widdow we have been Married 50 years this year , He was in the 1st Marine Battalion,3rd Marine Regiment,3rd Marine Division (Rein) he served in country from Jan. 6th-May 20,1969, he participated in operation “Taylor Common” Jan,13-Feb.21,1969 , he served in operation “Kentucky”Feb.7-Feb.28,1969, He served in operation “Main Craig” March 15-April 24,1969 & and of course the Operation that took his life Operation Virginia Ridge May9-May20,1969 KIA. they were around location (YD 059640) at the time , 5 Miles Northwest of Can Lo ,Quang Tri Province- We have been visited by one of his Men Dave Davies who had been looking for us for many years he came here and told us everything he was with James the Day he was Taken from us showed us Pictures of the area and Gave us a Video he Produced Called Road to Freedom it this Video the Camera focuses on the Wall and His Name , You might be able to go to youtube and view this Video , If anyone in your Organization was with him or knows anything about him please contact me at Larry Evans Orange123-652@hotmail.com would love to talk with them
*****************************************************
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Company 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO 65757
B1: Submit
Date: 09/30/2018
Comments
Hello ALL, Just wanted to let you know that the Reunion in Colorado Springs, CO was a good one. 1st Bn 3rd Marines was well represented. We had 4 new Charlie Company Marines there. It was one of the Best Reunions, I have been too. Col Jerry Reczek was presented a Plaque and Picture from the Marines and Corpsmen of Charlie Company at the Banquet. WOW! It was Awesome. If you didn’t make it this year, pan on making the Reunion next year in Branson, MO Sept 16th to 21st, 2019. Semper Fidelis, Don B C/1/3 the web master.
******************************************************
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 04/28/2017
Comments
Hello Marines and Corpsmen, April is almost over, with May knocking on the door. May 1st is approx 90 days till our REUNION in Savannah, GA August 1st to the 6th. TIME, to make your plans final. Book your room, and select your activities, YOU will not be disappointed, the REUNION is GREAT! If you need more information, contact me. Hope everyone is okay. Today April 28th, 50 years ago today, SLF-A started Operation Beaver-Cage/ Union in the Que Son Valley. I know that many if not all from Charlie Company and the Battalion, are THINKING about 50 years ago. WE can discuss at the Reunion. Hope to see you all there, Semper Fidelis Don B C/1/3 67-68.
**********************************************************
Name: Dean Rogers
Email: deanr6761@gmail.com
Unit: 78-82
HomeTown: San Antonio
B1: Submit
Date: 03/29/2017
Comments
Looking to enter my on the H&HQ alphabet list how do I go about doing this?
***********************************************************
Name: William Taylor
Email: wvtaylor@gmail.com
Unit: 67/68
HomeTown: Chicago, Illinois
B1: Submit
Date: 02/14/2017
Comments
Writing a book called, “13 Months” January, 1967 to February, 1968
*********************************************************
Name: Joe Berne
Email: joeandginny28546@yahoo.com
Unit: C Co., 2nd plt/ 1st Bn 3rd Marines
HomeTown: Cincinnati, Ohio
B1: Submit
Date: 02/04/2017
Comments
In Vietnam, Dec68-2 May, 1969, wounded by enemy grenade. 12 April, 1969, I was one of the Marines who watched what appeared to be a Marine with 4 NVA. Wish now we would have shot him.
*************************************************************
Name: JIM JACKSON
Email: ragman333@yahoo.com
Unit: comm plt 1/3..’65-’66
HomeTown: Illinois
B1: Submit
Date: 01/27/2017
Comments
LOOKING FOR JIM BORDIS (RED)HE WAS FROM CHICAGO…
****************************************************************
Name: JIM JACKSON
Email: ragman333@yahoo.com
Unit: comm plt 1/3..’65-’66
HomeTown: Illinois
B1: Submit
Date: 01/27/2017
Comments
Semper Fi all my good buddies…looking for anybody that was in the communications platoon in 1/3 “65 – ’66..also in you were in comm plt in 3/5
***************************************************************
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 12/31/2016
Comments
Happy New Year all Marines and Corpsmen, especially those that served with 1st BN / 3rd Marines. Wishing you Good Health and a Joyful Happy New Year. Hope to see you at Our Next REUNION in Savanna, GA in August! Semper Fidelis Don B C/1/3 67-68 Web Master!
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Name: Fred Pierce
Email: fastff@comcast.net
Unit: C/1/3 9/65-10/66
HomeTown: Federal Way, WA (State)
B1: Submit
Date: 12/20/2016
Comments
This has been a crazy trip getting back in after all these years. I’ve gone from not knowing anything (Daaaa, was I in the twilight Zone?) to seeking information Obsession. This site was extremely helpful. I was shocked that a Few “Jar Heads” could do something like this, but I forgot that “GOD” loves his Marines and gave a Few of them Brains. Who knows, maybe this old Cherokee still has some use in this world after all. I was 0311-(state side)-Radio-Man-2531 in Theater; Squad/Platoon & Company Radio Operator late 66. I was 1st Platoon on the Radio the night of 1/13/66 (friendly fire debacle). I’m still foggy in the head on a lot things, for example; I’m officially 65-66, but we got there in Sept or Oct 65 and left around Oct. 66, so would’t I know some of you 66 guys? I’ve read through some of the reports (that’s a Mind Blower) and we got replacements every month. I hope I get to run into some of you guys and go back over some of the fine details. (Ha; like when the Capt. had those “two beauties” sent to our hill) That’ a story for another day……
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Name: Art Snellbaker
Email: snellbake@comcast.net
Unit: 1st ANGLICO 1965
HomeTown: Atlantic City
B1: Submit
Date: 11/30/2016
Comments
I was a PFC with 1st ANGLCIO and in early 1965 I was sent TDY to your unit (at Kaneohe) for several weeks in anticipation of the field problem scheduled for California. After loading all your men & equipment aboard ship I was sent back to Camp Smith and often wondered how you guys made out. Semper Fi from an old ANGLICO marine.. Art
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Name: Buzz Seydel
Email: gaseyd685@hotmail.com
Unit:
HomeTown: Hammond, Indiana
B1: Submit
Date: 11/14/2016
Comments
I was looking for anyone who served with L/cpl Jimmy E Glegg. Jimmy served in Co.A,1st.battalion/3rd.marines/3rd.Mar.Div.Jimmy died on Sept.8,1968 during operations in and around Mutters Ridge (Hill 484)Nui Cay Tre.
**********************************************************
Name: rodwick padilla
Email: rodpadilla55@yahoo.com
Unit: 1/3 H&S 66-67
HomeTown: Honolulu, Hawaii
B1: Submit
Date: 11/09/2016
Comments
It’s been 49 years since being back from Vietnam, that I had the most great full moment in these long years to talk to someone who had served in the same unit 1/3 in 67 on aboard the USS Okinawa LPH #3. Don Bumgarner is that person and I had asked him to send me the video of the USS Okinawa which cost a total of 30.00. Also I had mentioned to Don about a book I had published about 2 years ago, and its about my experiences with the unit, and its all written in poetry of the Vietnam War. Its called My Brothers Keeper, Because of my oldest brothers death in June of 66 with 2/7 recon during operation Hastings, Ronald M. Padilla. Can’t wait to go to my first Reunion in 2017.
*****************************************************************
Name: kevin M. Jewers
Email: kmj8846@verizon.net
Unit: H&S 2/9 67-68
HomeTown: Marshfield MA
B1: Submit
Date: 10/24/2016
Comments
I can’t believe I’m doing this again. I’d like to hear from anyone who knew Cpl William V. Penny (Vic) Charlie Company 1/3, who was killed Oct 11,1967, when he was over run. We were stationed together at the Marine Barracks, NAS Cecil Field Florida. He was Jacksonville, Fla. He was a good guy, and a squared away Jarhead. I’m glad I got to know him. Another Barracks Marine was with 1/3, Tommy Morrison. He made it home, kinda. Thanks a lot. Kevin
******************************************************
Name: kevin M. Jewers
Email: kmj8846@verizon.net
Unit: H&S 2/9 67-68
HomeTown: Marshfield MA
B1: Submit
Date: 10/24/2016
Comments
I got some tips from Don in my search. I would like to hear from anyone who knew PFC Robert C. Smith. He was with Alpha 1/3, and was killed by a sniper, August 26, 1967, while on Operation ” Cochise ” in the Que Son Valley. He was my best friend. We were stationed together at Marine Barracks,Cecil Field, Fla. We were on the skeet team. Got our orders together spent two weekends at my Aunt’s in Whittier CA going through staging. It was great. He’s from Rochester New York. Thanks a lot. Kevin
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Name: James greeno
Email: greenojames513@gmail.com
Unit: 1/3 Charlie Company, 65
HomeTown: Pittsford
B1: Submit
Date: 09/19/2016
Comments
Hi I’m a Marine stationed at Lejeune looking for some information on my grandfather JAMES F PATTEN. I know he was a Sgt and served in Vietnam around 65-66. Any information is appreciated.
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Name: Richard Ellenberger
Email: ellenrib@live.com
Unit: H&S,1/7, 1969-70
HomeTown: Normandy Park
B1: Submit
Date: 09/17/2016
Comments
I’m trying to find out if my bootcamp buddy, Randy Merimee was in 1/3 in Vietnam, 1969-70. Thank you
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Name: Kevin M Jewers
Email: kmj8846@verizon.net
Unit: 2ndBn9thMarines 67/68
HomeTown: n. marshfield
B1: Submit
Date: 09/03/2016
Comments
My best friend R.C. Smith was killed four days before I got in country Aug 30. I found out he was killed by sniper fire. I know it’s a long shot but if you knew him, I’d like to know about his short time in Vietnam. We were stationed together at a marine barracks in Florida and got our orders at the same time. Thanx JKM4421
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Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie 1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 09/02/2016
Comments
Hello All, With the Reunion in San Antonio over, YOU should have been there. It was a Great Reunion, with 1/3 well represented. B/1/3 probably had the most there, C/1/3 had our share. Many “First Timmers” were there too. Our 1/3 BUNKER was the place to be. On Saturday night after the Banquet, there was 9 Marines that had been in C/1/3 during Dec 1967 and Jan 1968. WOW that was so neat. We did have a Great time. Some Texas marines that I thought would be there, did not show up. Sorry to say guys, it was your lose! You would have had a Good time. I must Thank All that attended, and the Vietnam era Vets who received their 50th Anniversary Vietnam lapel pin from Gen Hagee, the 33rd Commandant of the Marine Corps. We had about 9 WWII Vets, which was great too. Next year the Reunion is to be in Savanna, GA. Now is the time to start to plan to be there. Semper Fidelis, Don Bumgarner President of 1/3 Association.
*********************************************************
Name: lesley r ward
Email: emtiowa@live.com
Unit: marine corp 67-68
HomeTown: madison
B1: Submit
Date: 08/14/2016
Comments
looking for pictures or anything on my uncle allan curt ward and trying to find people he served with or knew him that would like to talk
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Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 07/15/2016
Comments
Hello guys, The REUNION in San Antonio, TX is coming up fast. Hope you will make it there. Remember Aug 23rd to 28th. WE will have a GREAT TIME! Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
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Name: David L. Skipper
Email: leeskipper82@hotmail.com
Unit: 1/3 C. Company 3PLT/2005-2006
HomeTown: Aiken, SC
B1: Submit
Date: 07/13/2016
Comments
I wanted to touch base with all the Marines both new and old to extend my gratitude for serving with the most awesome fighting forces known to man. All of you are heroes to me and I appreciate your sacrifices. -Semper Fi
Name:
Email:
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 07/04/2016
Comments
Name:
Email:
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 07/04/2016
Comments
Name: NBM
Email:
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 07/04/2016
Comments
Thanks to you all
Name: Jose Martinez
Email: meskinjo@yahoo.com
Unit: A Co, 1/3 1990-1993
HomeTown: Corpus Christi, Tx
B1: Submit
Date: 06/16/2016
Comments
Lcpl Bailey, I read your book. The way you were in the Marine Corps is the way you wrote your book. You went write up to the line and did not cross over. You admitted as much that you did not like or listen to authority. Most of the items of where we were are pretty on the spot. As far as my playing head games with the platoon, You have no idea how much heat i took and kept off of the platoon from 1stsgt Woodruff and Capt Waugh. It was a challenge trying to keep the heat off of the platoon when also Lt Rodriguez still thought of himself as an enlisted Machinegunner. I felt that my job was to keep you guys occupied so that all the stress of being in the desert would not make you crack,(remember in 1st platoon one troop hit another with a shovel in the head and cracked it open?) I feel that none of you tried to hurt yourself and that you kept somewhat discipline according to Marine Corps Standards. As far as your guilt feelings of the Combat Action Ribbon and deserving it, I have talked and drank with Vietnam Vets and I expressed that I had hoped we learned lessons from there experience and did it the right way. They all wished that when they went they would have ended it the way we had. So never feel you did not do or accomplish what we were assigned to do. I did enjoy reading about some of the events that happened. I wish someone would have told us that the white house as we called it glowed at night with out lanterns (funny). Quick Story, one night Freddy tipped the lantern over and liquid fell all over the pallet floor, he lights a match drops it and it catches fire. We had to run outside and throw sand all inside to turn out the fire. I hope you find peace and have a fulfilling life. As of news of 1sgt Woodruff he did make SgtMaj but at his next command he was the same way as in A Co. His big mistake is that he had an affair with a Sgt’s wife and was forced to retire. Last I heard he was working as a Valet parking cars in Las Vegas. Never heard what happened to Capt Waugh seems like he disappeared. Maybe the drinking you mentioned was the cause I don’t know. Lt Rodriguez is a LtCol should be hitting his 30 years now and is on the east coast. For all the battles I did with the officers for not only you and other troops I had under me the fitness reports affected my promotion. I never made gunny but i did retire after 20 years. I have come to terms with that. Age does that to you, I am a grandfather of 4 and enjoying life. I hope you do the same . Semper Fi
Name: Ken Olsen
Email: kenolsen@ymail.com
Unit: C 1/3 1969
HomeTown: Lockwood, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 06/15/2016
Comments
Served with C 1/3 as a mortarman and radioman from 5/5/69 to 9/69. I remember when Lt. Abbott was hit by a mortar on 5/25/69 and Gary Guest hit by a mortar on 5/27. On May 20th when Jenkins, Taylor and Wright died I was the gunner on the 60 Mortars. I hit those 60-70 NVA with every mortar we had. Once we were out of mortars, I helped carry the dead and wounded to the choppers in our ponchos. It was one hell of a morning. I remember that another Marine got killed checking on the dead enemy that morning. I was also the last one to talk to Richard Sonneberger on July 3,69 when he got shot by a sniper. We were both radiomen at the time and beginning to become good friends. In September 69 was transferred to H & S Co. 1/7 near Quan Nam. Attached to 81 mortars and on Nov. 1,69 was in a mortar duel with the enemy and lost. Came home thru the hospital system. SEMPER FI MY BROTHERS
Name: William E. Duckworth
Email: wduckw1@yahoo.com
Unit: H&S Co, 1stBn, 3rdMar 1985-1987
HomeTown: Fayette, AL
B1: Submit
Date: 06/09/2016
Comments
Name: Matt Clemons
Email: matthewwclemons@yahoo.com
Unit: C 1/3 2nd Plt 1988-93
HomeTown: Eureka, Ks
B1: Submit
Date: 05/11/2016
Comments
Name: L/Cpl Antonio R. Ramos
Email:
Unit: BLT 1/3, 3 Shore Party Bn.
HomeTown: New York
B1: Submit
Date: 05/06/2016
Comments
Matt: Got your e-mail. Sorry to hear about B. Knoops. My sympathies to his daughter. You can relay my e-mails to her, to keep for their family history. I am also sorry because I never knew about Knoops. You see, I was there but not with the group that was ambushed. Thank God I had filled my two canteens while wadding the river earlier on. When they came asking for volunteers to go on the water run I thought about going out but had no need for water so decided against it and kept busy doing other things, like digging a foxhole in the extremely hard soil. And fate … I didn’t even knew anybody from that water detail have survived. I wished I have known about Knoops to have exchanged notes. A great loss for me, too. We had only been in the field for 5 days when all this happened so unless you had been part of the company from the beginning you didn’t get to know the guys well. We were Shore Party Men and happened to be attached to A Co. for that day. C company had been ambushed the day before and I didn’t even realize it. We were about 1,200 strong so we moved over a large area. If you have any have any e-mails or notes from Knoops about the incident that you would like to share I would appreciate it very much. You see, I remembered the squad been send out and later heard when the gunfire erupted as they were being ambushed. I never knew the details of what happened after they walked outside the perimeter and were ambushed. Knoops knew and unfortunate I never got to exchange e-mails with him before he passed. After the ambushed sprung, they called every body to react, even Shore Party guys. We have to get and send out the wounded and later the dead. I don’t know if you uncle was sent out that day or the ones we picked up in the battlefield the next day. After it happened we didn’t talk much about it or have time to grieve, we had just started and the tougher days were ahead of us. We did a ceremony on the deck of the USS Okinawa when we got back. I hope you can share with me what ever you might have exchanged with Knoops. As you know I was the one that “baptized” the incident as the “Water Run Ambush” and wrote the memorial on the Wall site. In terms of the over all VN war, this was a “minor” incident, but I always remembered and wanted to keep their memories alive. It was that note in the Wall site to memorialize my Marines brothers from the May 3, 1967 ambush, that that gave me the opportunity to hear from people like you and other relatives, and allow me to tell the story of how their loved ones have died. I was surprised to find out that Uncle Sam never passed that information along. I understand, so many more bad things happened after that. Myself I was wounded not long after that, on June 13, 1967. The war cost me part of my right leg. And the rest of the people, they went on up until Christmas, bleeding and dying along the way. So you can imagine. But you uncle and the ones killed on that day became a permanent part of my life. And I repeat to you, they died in combat, no ifs or but’s. I was there. I will remember them as long as I live. Semper Fi, Antonio L/cpl. USMC-ret. Date: Thu, 5 May 2016 17:57:45 +0000 From: mulletmatt@comcast.net To: royalbunch@msn.com Subject: Re: BLT 1/3 1967 VNam I just got an email from Bill Knoops daughter – I emailed him on the anniversary of my uncle Luciano P Plesakov KIA 3may67 in the water run ambush – Knoop was the last survivor of the water run – he apparently passed away due to complications around liver cancer surgery….
Name: Antonio R. Ramos-L/CPL USMCret
Email: royalbunch@msn.com
Unit: Shore Party Man with BLT 1/3 WIA 6-13-67
HomeTown: New York City
B1: Submit
Date: 05/05/2016
Comments
The water run ambush. Some of us went from Vietnan to Okinawa to refurbish. With others, returned to Vietnam as Battalion Landing Team (BLT-1/3), 1st. Batn, 3rd. Marine Regiment (FMF). Our fleet ship was the USS Okinawa, a helicopter carrier; to do heliborne assaults against the N. Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces. On the 28 April 28, 1967 we were helolifted into the Que Son Valley (Quang Tin Prov.) to sweep northwest of the village. We humped for days, contact with the enemy was increasing. On May 3, 1967 after a very hot day of search, we called off the day. It was Operation Beaver Cage-Union. In need of drinking water, a water run was organized out of company “A” guys who proceeded to pick up every else’s canteens and hoisted them on belts to carry as many as possible to the creek. So many that they were even told not to bring their weapons. We had made the mistake of setting up camp in a flat area lower than some nearby hills. Unknowingly to us, the enemy was spying from the higher ground. The water run left and we keep digging for the night. Shortly afterwards, heavy automatic and small arms fire erupted. Since there have been no prior scouting, the water run was easily ambushed. Every body was called to commit and the battle lasted until past midnight. Artillery and gunship fire was needed to suppress the cunning enemy. 14 Marine brothers were killed ambushed that night including this hero. Some of the bodies we could not retrieve until the next day. As Shore Party man, I loaded most the bodies into the choppers. 38 years later, I want to memorialize all of them and tell their loved ones what happened. As for me, sometime later, on the evening of June 13, 1967, I lost part of my right leg to a booby trap during the first day of Operation Choctaw. God Bless you all brothers. I still love and remember you all. Semper Fi. Antonio R. Ramos. In Memoriun 1) Borawski, James D.; 2) Button, Monty Duwayne; 3) Carnline, Troy Monroe; 4) Dickerson, Tommy Eugene; 5) Falwell, Donald Wayne; 6) Gilbertson, Ricky Mark, 7) La Rose, Joseph Rhuben, 8) Murry Eugene; 9) Plesakov, Luciano Paul; 10) Rose, Robert James; 11) Spicer, Eugene Douglas; 12) Sweesy, John Earl; 13) Urick, John William; 14) Verbilla, David. Later on a Marine from 1/5 informed me that al least 2 of mylisted belong to the 5 Marines and died during a mortar attack on them..Nevertheless I still think is in order to memorialize all of them since the died the same day and were Marine Brothers. May the Lord Bless their souls. They are not dead until we forget them. Semper Fi L/Cpl: Antonio R. Ramos 3 Shore Party Bn, attached to BLT 1/3 Wounded by a punji bobby trap on June 13, 1967, the evening of first day of Operation Choctaw. Archaeologist and historian
Name: L/Cpl Antonio R. Ramos
Email:
Unit: BLT 1/3 Shore Party Bn.
HomeTown: New York
B1: Submit
Date: 05/03/2016
Comments
Don: I got one for you that no one seems to remember but if you were there you surely will. I goes like this: After the water run ambush )May 3, 1967) we kept humping and eventually moved to a valley and set up camp not far from the river. We took turns to go swimming & bathing naked, there were kids and Vietnamese women washing clothing and doing chores by the river. We were still in high alert due to the prior days situation. We had set up a camp with most of our troops over a wide area. We were given a good resupply and some large cans of juice, pineapple I remember. Well, the stuff was bad and the next thing we knew is, everybody got a bad case of running diarrhea. Shit boxes were built and there were big lines to sit on the throne, shit was green and we surely had a lot of good jokes at the expense of the Corps. The shitters were open so the stench was pretty bad, too. Some people got so sick that they had to be medivacked. I was not at the LZ at the moment but returning to my hootch after the river swim. At a given moment, somewhere not far from the shit boxes, two helicopters took off. Somehow they made the wrong turn and about a few hundred feet above our heads, they got too close and collided. The were CH -37’s or the one prop type. They separated. One did a hard landing and I understand every body survived. But that one had clipped off the tail of the other helicopter. The pilot tried desperately to control the bird but it was not possible since he had no tail propeller and no control. Then it stated to spinning wildly out of control against the movement of the propeller and coming down. All this tragic moment was playing out above every body’s head. Some were running away from the falling birds. As the hello was spinning out of control, one guy was expelled (the gunner?) while another one jump out. The helicopter crashed landed and became engulfed in a ball of fire. It was about 100 feet from me, luckily I was at the lower side of the natural terrace of the ground. Some of us tried to run towards the helicopter to help but there was no way. Orders were shouted out to get the hell out and take cover since there was live ammo inside the burning bird and they did not want anybody else to get hurt. It still hurts that we have to let our comrades burn to death. As the fire was going out we approached the bird and could still see blue embers. I was shocked to see that the whole thing have been consumed to a tiny pile of charred remains. What was left of the buddies was so small that e-tools were enough to pick up the remains and taken away. I understand the guys that fell out did not survived but at the time we were too busy to do follow up in much of anything. I haven’t find anybody that remember this or else, confuses it with other situations pretty similar. Not our case. I was there and I saw this, it’s not a dream, there were a lot of other people from BLT 1/3 watching while this all unfolded. I am sure some of the guys at the reunion remember this and can even give more specifics: day, names, etc. I don’t know the names of the dead. Heck, I don’t even remember the exact day (5-7 ? April 67) Well brother, I will keep sending and you put it where ever you think it belongs. This things are small and unique that nobody remembers, but it is our own history and is our duty to remember our Marine comrades. It also gives me an opportunity to get this things out of my gut where they have been buried for many years.
Name: L/Cpl Antonio R. Ramos
Email: Royalbunch@msn.com
Unit: BLT 1/3 Shore Party Bn.
HomeTown: New York City
B1: Submit
Date: 05/03/2016
Comments
Today is the anniversary of owr fallen comrades at the Water Run Ambush, of May 3, 1967. May their souls rest in Peace. I still remember that fateful evening and hey will not die as long as I live. Antonio
Name: Toni Chustz
Email: Tclecreole@gmail.com
Unit: 1/3
HomeTown: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
B1: Submit
Date: 05/02/2016
Comments
Looking for any information on my fathers service in Vietnam. Anthony Larry Chustz from New Roads, LA served from 64-67. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
Name: Norm Kouri
Email: usmcflyerretired@yahoo.com
Unit: C company 1/3 Dec 66 to Dec 67
HomeTown: Minneapolis, Mn
B1: Submit
Date: 04/13/2016
Comments
All that time and never remembered anybody, didn’t want to because I never thought of surviving. I live in Winter Park, Fl and supporter for a chapter of a motorcycle club known as Nam Knights and the president is called LT, B 1/3 66-67. Small world.
Name: David Tines
Email: davetines@gmail.com
Unit: Retired AF/2009
HomeTown: Roseboom, NY
B1: Submit
Date: 03/14/2016
Comments
I am trying to get as much information as I can on my Uncle who was killed in Vietnam near Quang Tri. For that matter I would love to talk to anyone that might have known him at that time. His information is Franz Tines, 0311, 1st Bn, 3rd Marine Regiment (1/3)/B Co. Location of casuality date and location: Hill 461 Bunker complex – Quang Tri September 11 1968. He was only in service about three months before he was killed but he is the main reason I joined and retired from the military. Mainly to try and honor his memory and sacrifice and all the servicemen that came before me. Thank You
Name: James.R.Greeno
Email: greenojames513@gmail.com
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 02/21/2016
Comments
Good evening everyone. I’m a marine stationed at cherry point. My grandfather was also a a marine in this unit. But I don’t know much about more then that. I hoping to find some answers. He was from Vermont. I know he got out of the corp as a sergeant. He was in Charlie platoon. His name is James.Franics.Patten Jr. If anyone knows him or any information from 1965 and after would be greatly appreciated.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 02/10/2016
Comments
Hello Marines and Corpsmen from 1st Battalion-3rd Marines Vietnam Era. I have been in contact with Cody Burleson, entry below. His Dad, Alan Burleson, was with Delta 1/3 in 1966-1967. Cody wants to possibly WRITE a BOOK, with his Dad’s Memories, and also have the MEMORIES of as many 1/3 Marines and Corpsmen, that are willing to SHARE their Memories. I know WE ALL have our own Memories, no two alike, that would be great to have in a BOOK. We are all getting OLDER, and each year more of us pass on, to guard the Gates of Heaven. They join SO MANY that have went before to Guard those Gates. Their Stories/Memories will never be told, only remembered what we were told before they passed. This is the opportunity for us all to Share Our Memories, and a Book Our Families will want to have and Share with the generations to come. Something to THINK ABOUT, and HOPE you will contact Cody. This could be a Great Book, the MEN of 1st Battalion-3rd Marines in Vietnam! Their STORIES-MEMORIES. Semper Fidelis Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Cody Burleson
Email: cody.burleson@base22.com
Unit: Son of D-1-3 Marine 66-67
HomeTown: USA
B1: Submit
Date: 02/10/2016
Comments
Book Project (title to-be-determined) – Compiled Stories of the 1/3 Marines in Vietnam My name is Cody Burleson and I’m the son of a 1/3 Marine who served in Vietnam. I’ve been successful in business, but now, I’m actively pursuing my life-long dream and passion to write novels. One of the stories I’ve always wanted to know and tell was that of my own father’s experience of the Vietnam War and the resounding effect it had in all the years that followed. So, he and I have begun that process. Slowly, but surely, his story is coming out. He sends me the pieces he remembers when he can and I edit and tie them together – filling in the gaps where I am able (with research, interviews, and what-not). As I have been writing his story, I’ve been learning more and more about other veterans and those who never made it home. I’ve realized there are many stories to be told and there seems to be an overall desire from some to publish them for their children, for posterity, for American history, and in honor of their fallen brothers. I’ve contacted some of the men and will continue to do so – inviting you to consider sharing your story or a part of it in a compilation book along with my father’s, which we are now writing. Some have expressed cautious interest. Others, understandably, don’t care to go back there and wrestle with those demons. For those Lava Dogs of ‘Nam who may be interested, I am posting this message as an open invitation to consider joining our project and sharing your story for the book. I can assure you the process is very interactive; everything refined, draft-after-draft – everything under your careful discretion and direction. They are, after all, your stories and your experiences. I’ve heard also that some have endeavored to do a similar project in the past, but those may not have made it to the point of a polished, published work (maybe they lost steam; fizzled out?). I hope you will let it be my job to manage the project all the way to end-of-job. If I am anything, I am persistent. I can promise you that I will carry these stories to a dignified end – a published work of lasting quality and value that honors our combat veterans, and especially those brothers who did not come home. If you are interested, please contact me directly and introduce yourself. I’ll tell you everything you want to know about the project and you can decide later if you care to be involved. Cody Burleson, cody.burleson@gmail.com, (214) 537-8783. As I am not a Marine, I guess I cannot say “Semper Fi,” but I will at least say that my family and I are forever grateful for your service.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 02/10/2016
Comments
Test
Name: Datarealm Test
Email: support@datarealm.com
Unit: charlie
HomeTown: Philadelphia
B1: Submit
Date: 02/10/2016
Comments
test 2
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 02/09/2016
Comments
Test!
Name: Datarealm Test
Email: support@datarealm.com
Unit: charlie
HomeTown: Philadelphia
B1: Submit
Date: 02/09/2016
Comments
test
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 01/01/2016
Comments
I tried to send this last night, New Years Eve. Hello Marines and Corpsmen, Hope as we get ready for the New Year ALL are okay. I thought about 48 years ago (1967) at C-4 as we waited for the New Year to arrive. Then at Mid-Night ALL the Locations across the DMZ, lit up the sky with Illumination Rounds and Flares, and some might have fired M-16’s into the air. If the NVA did not know our Positions, they knew now! With 1968 arriving, MANY of us would work towards our 13 month ROTATION DATE! Some of you got sent home early because of the Purple Hearts you received. Now that WE are HOME, most are about my age 68 years with some being a touch older and a few a year or two younger. ALL of us should be on Medicare and Social Security- guess we made it to Old Age. I sure Wondered in 1967 if I would see my 21st Birthday! With the Reunion this year in San Antonio, Texas in August, start planning now to GO! You will not be disappointed, to see the guys You Served With in Nam is GREAT! Some have procrastinated and NEVER got to a Reunion. They have missed reconnecting with their Buddies, and the Buddies missed seeing them again. 1st Battalion 3rd Marines, OUR UNIT should have a good showing in San Antonio. If you haven’t been to a Reunion, NOW is a good time to start planning, and getting dates set. Each year, seems we LOOSE a Brother or Two. It’s a thrill to see the Older WWII and Korean Veterans at Our Reunions! Something to Think and PONDER about! Besides running this Web Site, I am also the President of the 1/3 Association, of the 3rd Marine Division Association that put on the Reunion. Hope to see you there in San Antonio, Happy New Year, Gob Bless America, and God Bless You! Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Walter Tinay
Email: tinay1usmc@netzero.net
Unit: 1/3 B Co/ 1995
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 12/10/2015
Comments
Name: Bill Ervin
Email: billinnam@gmail.com
Unit: D-1-3 guns 1969
HomeTown: Da Nang, Vietnam
B1: Submit
Date: 11/20/2015
Comments
Have you ever thought about going back to Vietnam? Well, now is a good time to do it. Paul Hartly and I are organizing a trip for 1/3 Marines to return in June of 2016. This is going to be a special trip, tailored for Marines who served with First Battalion, Third Marines. We will be going back to the places where 1/3 spent much of their time; Dai Do, Con Thien, Rockpile, Mutter’s Ridge, Hwy 9, Hue, and Hill 55. We’ll walk some of our old battlegrounds and we’ll have dinner on China Beach with a group of former NVA officers. Paul and I were both gunners with Delta Company during 1968-69. Paul has been back to Vietnam twice now since the war and I’ve been leading vets back to Vietnam for over twenty years and have been living in Da Nang for eight years. We know how to get to places that are significant to us. If you are interested in joining with us contact either me at billinnam@gmail.com or Paul at downbeachtile@gmail.com . The group will be limited to 12 people so sign up early to get your seat.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 09/13/2015
Comments
Hello ALL, (Marines, Corpsmen, and Who ever), I am the Web Master at this web site. I just UP-DATED the Company Lists from the 2012 3rd Marine Division Association Members Book. LOTS of newly FOUND Marines and Corpsmen from 1st Battalion 3rd Marines. Many with email addresses too. CHECK it out, and IF your name needs updating, muster in, and I will update the information in a few days again. If anyone is INTERESTED in maintaining a Company List for Viet Nam era Marines and Corpsmen, let me know. I maintain a LIST for Charlie Company, and attempt to send any information I have about the upcoming Reunions etc. If one our Friend’s does go to Guard the Gates of Heaven, I will pass that on too, to the ones I think knew him. I need someone from Alpha, Delta, and H&S Companies, think I have one for Bravo Company. I keep most of Charlie Company informed, the ones I know about. The MORE informed the MORE we will have at the Reunions. Usually OUR Battalion (1/3) is well represented. Think about it, and if you might be interested, let me know. Thanks, Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, Missouri
B1: Submit
Date: 08/18/2015
Comments
Hello EVERYONE! We just finished the 3rd Marine Division Associations REUNION in Orlando, FL. THANK YOU, to ALL those that were there. 1st Bn 3rd Marines had a fair showing, we could have had more. B/1/3 had the most there of the individual Companies. MANY new First Time Marines showed too. A Mortar Man from C/1/3 that I hadn’t seen in 48 years was there. WOW! We had a GREAT Time. At the Mini-1/3 meeting, I was elected to fill the President’s vacancy with the passing of Richard P CLEARY. I will TRY hard, and get more 1/3 Marines and Corpsmen to OUR next Reunion in San Antonio, TX next August. I think EVERYONE had a Good Time at the Reunion. The “1/3 BUNKER” on the 19th floor in a Pent House was very ACTIVE most of the time. IT was the PLACE TO BE! There were 40 plus inside at times, sharing War Stories and partaking in a drink or two. There was Plenty to Drink too. If YOU didn’t make the Orlando Reunion, YOU missed some Great Times. HOPE YOU plan to be at the Next one in San Antonio. Semper Fi, 1/3 President, Don B C/1/3.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, Missouri
B1: Submit
Date: 08/18/2015
Comments
Hello EVERYONE! We just finished the 3rd Marine Division Associations REUNION in Orlando, FL. THANK YOU, to ALL those that were there. 1st Bn 3rd Marines had a fair showing, we could have had more. B/1/3 had the most there of the individual Companies. MANY new First Time Marines showed too. A Mortar Man from C/1/3 that I hadn’t seen in 48 years was there. WOW! We had a GREAT Time. At the Mini-1/3 meeting, I was elected to fill the President’s vacancy with the passing of Richard P CLEARY. I will TRY hard, and get more 1/3 Marines and Corpsmen to OUR next Reunion in San Antonio, TX next August. I think EVERYONE had a Good Time at the Reunion. The “1/3 BUNKER” on the 19th floor in a Pent House was very ACTIVE most of the time. IT was the PLACE TO BE! There were 40 plus inside at times, sharing War Stories and partaking in a drink or two. There was Plenty to Drink too. If YOU didn’t make the Orlando Reunion, YOU missed some Great Times. HOPE YOU plan to be at the Next one in San Antonio. Semper Fi, 1/3 President, Don B C/1/3.
Name: Jim Peacock
Email: japeacock49@yahoo.com
Unit: Alpha 1/3 68-69
HomeTown: Los Angeles CA
B1: Submit
Date: 07/14/2015
Comments
I am saddened to report to the Alpha 1/3 Marines that my brother Mike “Doc Bird” Peacock, 2nd Platoon Corpsman passed away this July 1, 2015 of throat cancer. His proudest achievements of his life were his service with the Alpha 1/3 during the 1968-69 Vietnam period.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 06/28/2015
Comments
2015 3rd Marine Division Association REUNION in ORLANDO, Florida! It is June 28th today, the REUNION will be here very soon. Actually just over 6 weeks, or 44 Days from now. The cut-off date for the Doubletree Hotel special price is July 9th, 2015. The cut-off date for the Armed Forces Reunions, Inc activities is July 10th, 2015. So HOPE you can arrange your schedule to be at the Reunion in Orlando! Book your plans soon, and looking forward to seeing you there. Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 06/28/2015
Comments
Hello Marines, It is with a sad heart that I report that Our 1/3 Association President Dick Cleary did pass away of possible Heart Attack on May 25th, 2015 in Arizona. Since I am the VP of Our Association, I am now the President. For those that knew Dick and wish to send condolences to his Daughter and Family, PLEASE mail your cards to Jana Cleary, 1984 N Frances Blvd, Tucson, AZ. 85712. Keep his Family in your prayers, and know that Dick is guarding the Gates to Heaven now. Semper Fidelis Dick, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Jerry Willis
Email: jwusmc@aol.com
Unit: 67-68
HomeTown: col ga
B1: Submit
Date: 06/05/2015
Comments
As per your VP Don Bumgarner This is to notify all officers of the death of your President Dick Cleary. Everyone needs to contact Don Bumgarner to make plans for this coming reunion. Dick was buried this last Tuesday. Please contact Don ASAP. Semper Fi Jerry Willis
Name: Jerry Willis
Email: jwusmc@aol.com
Unit: 67-68
HomeTown: col ga
B1: Submit
Date: 06/05/2015
Comments
As per your VP Don Bumgarner This is to notify all officers of the death of your President Dick Cleary. Everyone needs to contact Don Bumgarner to make plans for this coming reunion. Dick was buried this last Tuesday. Please contact Don ASAP. Semper Fi Jerry Willis
Name: Jim Capparelli
Email: jimcapparelli@comcast.net
Unit: Relative – (B 1/3)
HomeTown: Riverside,NJ
B1: Submit
Date: 05/27/2015
Comments
Looking for anyone that might have known my uncle Pfc. George G. Capparelli (B Company 1/3). KIA May 1, 1968 at the Battle of Dai Do. Any information is greatly appreciated.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 05/25/2015
Comments
My Old Captain (Capt RECZEK)from C/1/3 in 1967 wanted this message to go out to all the Marines and Corpsmen from 1st Battalion 3rd Marines. From Capt Reczek: On this Memorial Day, we need to recommit ourselves to the values of freedom and honor that our Marines, Corpsmen and Navy members of our BLT gave their lives for during our offensive operations in 1967, especially. Beavercage/Union I stands out where we lost too many brave comrades. The code word “spades” was a heavy burden, not only to report, but heavier to receive. That word did not do justice to who, what and how brave our comrades were and what they faced. In what order these events happened may be significant, but for this Memorial Day chronicle, less important. My recollections are summarized as follows: Charlie Co enters a small village late in the day where women and children are huddled, wailing and crying in a single “hooch”. By the time Charlie Co stops and deploys on a trench lined hilltop overlooking the village, they are hit with a fusillade of automatic and antitank weapons fire. The company regroups and withstands a long night of probes from all directions by employing artillery Box me in fires and “puff the magic dragon”. The next morning, Alpha Co sent a group to refill canteens at a nearby stream and is ambushed by attackers concealed in haystacks. That same day Delta Co makes contact with a significant force deployed in concealed positions in a long and wide valley. The engagement lasted well into nightfall. Concurrently, Charlie Co is redirected from its zone of action to assist Delta Co. During the movement up to Delta’s location, Charlie Co commander reports to the Bn operations officer that he observes a long column of personnel moving on a steep trail away from Delta’s location. The distance was too far to confirm whether they were villagers or combatants. The next morning, Bravo Co is helilifted in to link up with Delta and Charlie Co’s to sweep the valley where Delta made heavy contact. The sweep revealed a number of uncovered, open and deep shafts which were marked, per the Bn Ops officer’s direction, and to continue the sweep and leave the shafts to be destroyed by engineers. Bravo, Charlie and Delta companies continued to sweep along their zones of action into the Queson Valleys and ridge lines where NVA units countered their movements constantly using mortar attacks and small lunit engagements until the morning of 10 May 1967. On the morning of 10 May, Bravo Co made initial contact with a sizeable force along the valley, at the bottom of the dominate terrain on Bravo Co’s right flank, Hill 110. The contact quickly escalated with Charlie and Delta Co’s joining Bravo Co along and in a streambed on the valley floor at the bottom of Hill 110. The engagement continued well into late afternoon as the NVA tried to disengage from the battle in the valley and streambed. The 1/3 units were out of range of supporting artillery fires and the battle was waged by platoon and squad counterattacks and individual acts of heroism and courage on the part of the troops on the ground. As Bravo, Charlie and Delta Co’s consolidated positions along the streambed, Marine A-4 Skyhawks pounded the streambed with napalm and 500 lb bomb air strikes. As part of the ongoing action, a Sparrowhawk helicopter bringing in reinforcements from Alpha Co was shot down trying to land next to Bravo Co. That day, there were numerous actions taken by individual marines and corpsmen to destroy the attackers and to protect their buddies that resulted in many posthumous awards for heroism, courage and the ultimate sacrifice. Many of us know who these heroes are and we’ll never forget them. There may be others whose stories are yet to be heard. A few may know, that early in the battle, a helicopter pilot from HMM 263 brought in ammo right in the middle of the ground action, and waited for us to bring casualties and load them before taking off. When the chopper landed on the USS Okinawa (Lph-3), the crew counted thirty-four holes in the aircraft. This is a long, drawn out account of a short, but meaningfull time for those who shared it 48 years ago. But it’s significance in our rememberance of our fallen brothers, and the events of that time are never forgotten. Fifty-five of our brother gave the ultimate sacrifice. May they rest in peace. Gerald F. Reczek Colonel USMC (Ret) “Charlie Six”
Name: daniel kaylor
Email: dr7kaylor@gmail.com
Unit: B/1/3, ’65-’66
HomeTown: Allegan, Mi
B1: Submit
Date: 05/11/2015
Comments
Particularly interested in anyone who was with my platoon on Hill 124 near Da Nang, by Namo Bridge. And Operation Orange.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafforf, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 05/07/2015
Comments
Hello Guys, This is MAY-2015, 48 years after Operation BEAVER CAGE/UNION. The BATTALION had experienced may TUFF days, C Company Ambushed on May 2nd, A Company Water Run Ambushed on the 3rd of May, and D Company Heavy involvement with NVA in Que Son Valley on May 4th. Then more causalities the next few days. The 10th is coming in 3 days, and B, C, and D Companies had that Day Long Battle ending with 22-KIA’s and 88-WIA’s, with three Posthumously Awarded NAVY CROSSES, and many Other Medals for Bravery. Take a moment and REMEMBER our FALLEN BROTHERS, and if you get a chance leave a message at the WALL. To OUR Fallen Brothers, May You Continue to Rest In Peace! Semper Fidelis, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: ANTHONY KELICHNER
Email: cindebear11@aol.com
Unit: B-1-3 1966
HomeTown: Buffalo NY
B1: Submit
Date: 04/01/2015
Comments
Hello fellow Marines- I was there when fellow Marine Robert Lopez was killed by friendly fire and I was there during Operation Orange when I was shot April 2,1966. I don’t remember the other Marine and Corpman that came out in the middle of the rice paddy under intense fire to save my ass but I hope some higher-up put them in for Bronze Stars. They deserved them!! IF you know these heros ,please give me a call 352-307-0204. Semper Fi!! Tony K.
Name: emmett w queen
Email: emmett2044@tampabay.rr.com
Unit: B and D 1-3-3- wpns Plt 1965-66
HomeTown: seffner, fl.
B1: Submit
Date: 02/25/2015
Comments
MY NAME IS EMMETT QUEEN., SGT (RETIRED) USMC. I SERVED IN B AND D COMPANY 1ST BN 3RD MARINES IN VIETNAM 1965 TO 1966, MANY OF B-1-3 WENT TO D-1-3 JUST BEFORE OPERATION ORANGE, AND I WAS ONE OF THEM. IF YOU ARE ONE OF THOSE WHO SERVED WITH ME IN NAME, FRIEND ME, I WAS AN M-60 GUNNER IN WEAPONS PLATOON. https://www.facebook.com/emm2044
Name: Tim Baggett
Email: tim.baggett@jcsb.org
Unit: C Company 1/3 1987-1991
HomeTown: Grand Ridge Florida
B1: Submit
Date: 02/09/2015
Comments
The older you get the more you think about years of service and sacrifice. I would like to leave something for my children. Can anyone let me know what actual ribbons/medals we were awarded after the Gulf War? I was past my EAS and discharged immediately upon return to Hawaii. I never new. Thanks and Semper Fi!
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Strafford, MO
B1: Submit
Date: 01/30/2015
Comments
Hello MARINES and CORPSMEN, Today is a sad day, Sgt Ronald R. ASHER, passed on 1-27-2015 from Liver Complications. Ron was a Marine with Charlie Company 1/3 from February 1967 till March 1968. Ron and I went thru ITR, Machine Gun School, and Staging before going to Vietnam together. We both were in Charlie Company the full 13 month tour. We had joined 1st Battalion 3rd Marines with 24 other Marines (11 more Machine Gunners like us, and 13 regular Grunts), at Okinawa. Of the 26 of us Marines, Ron and I made it back unscratched, 2 were KIA, and the other 22 had between 1 and 3 Purple Hearts. Ron and I met up again in 2002, when we realized we both were in California, about 35 miles apart. Ron and I worked on a Book for C/1/3 Marines, and started the History of 1/3 in Vietnam I send out today. Ron and I were BROTHERS, though he is gone HE is now Guarding the Gates of Heaven. I know one day we will meet again. Semper Fidelis RON, Rest in Peace My Brother, and know you will be missed. Love ya my Brother, Don B C/1/3 67-68
Name: Test
Email: Test
Unit: Test
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 01/28/2015
Comments
Test!
Name: Sean Dover
Email: sollobo1@yahoo.com
Unit: C 1/3 1992-1994
HomeTown: Alma, Arkansas
B1: Submit
Date: 01/14/2015
Comments
Looking to see if any Devil Dogs from 1/3 92-94 have any pics and/or videos (There was a video from Australia/with a Bar contest several of us Jar heads participated in) of any training/deployemts. I lost everything in a family house fire several years back. Thanks for any help. Semper Fi
Name: bill mcbride
Email: bill.mcbride@gmail.com
Unit: 3rd recon ’67, 1/3 78-80
HomeTown: san antonio
B1: Submit
Date: 12/18/2014
Comments
looking for anyone who remembers l/cpl thomas wayne musick, d/1/3 kia 16 Aug ’68
Name: Clint Elder
Email: lordsnow911@gmail.com
Unit: Wpns Co Dragons Plt 94-97
HomeTown: St. Louis MO
B1: Submit
Date: 11/23/2014
Comments
Feels like a life time ago and miss the brotherhood every day. SEMPER FI MARINES! OOHRAH!
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Stuart, FL
B1: Submit
Date: 11/10/2014
Comments
HAPPY 239th BIRTHDAY to OUR MARINE CORPS! Happy Birthday to ALL MARINES and CORPSMEN, Past, Present, and Future. HOPE EVERYONE has a Great Birthday. WE do DESERVE IT! THINK of Your years in The Corps, The FRIENDSHIPS you made, The GOOD and The TUFF Times you shared, and REMEMBER our Buddies that we Lost. I HOPE you have been able to attend some of the recent REUNIONS, and have RECONNECTED with MARINES and CORPSMEN you served with long ago. Once again, Happy Birthday ALL, and God Bless America, the Marine Corps, and ALL of You too! Semper Fidelis Don Bumgarner C/1/3 67-68 (the Web guy here).
Name: Antonio Gonzales
Email: gonzales.antonio@att.net
Unit: Echo 2/3 1969
HomeTown: Lockhart, TX
B1: Submit
Date: 09/12/2014
Comments
Just visiting and looking at your website. Antonio G Gonzales KIA/Family Unit Officer http://www.echo23marines6569.org
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: I’m the Web Master here!
B1: Submit
Date: 08/20/2014
Comments
The REUNION in Reno, NV between Aug 12th and 17th. Those that attended the REUNION seemed to have a GREAT TIME! There were many 1st Timers there, 3 from Charlie Company (William Moran, Ed Neiderberger, and Bruce Irgens). 2 from Bravo, and at least 1 from Delta. The 1/3 Bunker, was the place to be, and everyone had a Great Time Visiting there. Pictures were shared, the 1/3 History was read and Talked about, and a Beer or Two could have been consumed. The 3 new Marines from Charlie, who I had not seen in 46 years, was Great to talk with again. Charlie Companies Old Captain COL Jerry RECZEK (Ret)was there and DR Don TEAL the Chief Surgeon on the LPH-3 USS Okinawa was there too. THANK YOU to ALL those that Attended, and HOPE to see many more Next Year in Orlando, Florida. The ones that did not attend, missed a Good Reunion. Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-67
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Co 67-68
HomeTown: Web Master
B1: Submit
Date: 08/11/2014
Comments
Hello MARINES and CORPSMEN, OUR REUNION is in 2 days at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino in Reno, Nevada. I will be there, will YOU be there???? The Reunion is between the 12th and 17th. I think LOTS of 1/3 Marines and Corpsmen will be there, and I am excited to see 5 or more Marines for the FIRST TIME in over 45 years! WOW! There will be many guys that go each year too. Looking forward to seeing ALL the Marines and Corpsmen from and 1/3 at the BUNKER, and all the 3rd marine division Marines too. Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68 the Web Guy!
Name: Mike Sullivan
Email: sully3169@yahoo.com
Unit: B 1/3 wpns plt. 87-89
HomeTown: Salem Ohio
B1: Submit
Date: 06/27/2014
Comments
Name: VIRGIL DOBBIN
Email: virgil.dobbin285@gmail.com
Unit: Bco 1/3 86-89
HomeTown: selma nc
B1: Submit
Date: 06/25/2014
Comments
Name: VIRGIL DOBBIN
Email: virgil.dobbin285@gmail.com
Unit: Bco 1/3 86-89
HomeTown: selma nc
B1: Submit
Date: 06/25/2014
Comments
Name: Dustin Jones
Email: dcjones87@gmail.com
Unit: 1/3 08-11
HomeTown: amherst, NH
B1: Submit
Date: 06/24/2014
Comments
you are mission Lcpl Thomas “TJ” Reilly Jr on the Iraq memorial page. http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=32381854
Name: Milton Pittman
Email: mpittman53@aol.com
Unit: Bravo 1/3 1965 & 1966
HomeTown: Compton, Calif.
B1: Submit
Date: 06/14/2014
Comments
Years have passed since those days of sacrifice, I look in the mirror seeing that the kid is gone, now an older man stands holding the memories that often manifest themselves in dreams, scars no one can see, which evidence the conflicts that live in our minds, ever moving toward that final refuge, reunion, that final muster.
Name: PEDR0 SALAZAR
Email: pete-salazar@sbcglobal.net
Unit: Jul-Oct 69 ”A” 1/3 3rd Marines-Guns 1st PLT
HomeTown: Fresno, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 06/06/2014
Comments
3rd came Home: I was short,–sent to “M” 3/7 1st Marine Div::::WIA,out in May 1970
Name: KORY BJERKE
Email: kory.bjerke@simplot.com
Unit: BRAVO CO. WPNS. PLT. 87-91
HomeTown: GRAFTON NORTH DAKOTA
B1: Submit
Date: 05/17/2014
Comments
Name: Ward A. Downey
Email: downey3333@live.com
Unit: Charlie 66-67
HomeTown: Topeka, Ks
B1: Submit
Date: 05/14/2014
Comments
Sorry to do this twice. Transposed number on phone. Phone # 785-430-0918. Love to hear from any of the Marines and Corpsman I served with. Semper Fi.
Name: Ward A. Downey
Email: downey3333@live.com
Unit: Charlie 66-67
HomeTown: Topeka, Ks
B1: Submit
Date: 05/14/2014
Comments
Phone # 785-430-0198
Name: John A. Jeffries
Email: jeffriesllc@comcast.net
Unit: Delta 1/3 summer 1966
HomeTown: Miami, FL
B1: Submit
Date: 05/12/2014
Comments
Have tried for years to locate the corpsmen who served with me near Ft Lemy. Black guy,last name Brooks, I think from Chicago. Semper Fi, John
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie 67-68
HomeTown: Stuart, FL
B1: Submit
Date: 05/10/2014
Comments
Hello ALL Marines from 1st Bn 3rd Marines, I’m Don Bumgarner, the Web Master at onethreemarines.com. I am making a History of 1/3 in Vietnam 65-69 with MEMORIES shared by Marines who were there. If you have a MEMORY you would like to SHARE, please forward them to me at my email above, or mail them to me at: Don Bumgarner, 1 Island Road, Stuart, FL 34996-7005. Today I am Sharing the Memories of Captain Jerry Reczek, CO of C/1/3, 10May67 on Operation Beaver Cage/ Union in the Que Son Valley. Memories of 10May67 Operation Beaver Cage/ Union I Col. Jerry RECZEK’s response to a article in the April 2014 issue of VIETNAM MAGAZINE, entitled “Suicide Charlie Hits a Wall of Steel” (Page #42). It is about Operation Union and C/1/5. They were a Blocking Force on the west side of Hill 110 in the Que Son Valley. They take off on morning of May 10th, 1967 moving to their Blocking Position. C/1/5 became engaged with the NVA, and were requesting HELP! SLF-1/3 which was on Operation Beaver Cage/Union assisting the 1/5 Marines, was across the river on the north side of Hill 110. 1/3 Companies Bravo, Charlie, and Delta were involved on May 10th. That day 1/3 became HEAVELY ENGAGED with the NVA too, and sustained 22-KIA’s and 88-WIA’s with 3-Posthumously Awarded NAVY CROSSES and other SILVER STARS and BRONZE STARS also awarded. It was a TUFF Day for Charlie 1/3. SLF-1/3 was unable to assist C/1/5 when they requested HELP. A/1/5 moving to assist C/1/5 was mistaken for NVA and a Jet dropped a couple Bombs on them. Lots of Causalities, for them and C/1/5 suffered lots of Causalities too. It was a TUFF Day for ALL MARINES involved with Operation Union/Beaver Cage. Col Reczek was the Captain and CO of C/1/3 on May 10Th, 1967. Memories- Col. Reczek- To add tactical clarity to the scheme of maneuvers to the events of the day on 10May67- the Three Assault Companies of BLT-1/3 reversed their westerly movement along the Que Son Valley and started sweeping to the East in the early morning of the 10th of May with two Companies up and one Company back. The Company sweeping along the riverbed bed on the right, Company “B”, initiated the contact with the NVA force which turned out to be deployed along a line down along the north face of Hill 110 to the riverbed and valley below. The intensity of the fire steadily grew as the other two Companies of 1/3 swept in from the valley floor to close on the riverbed to join the emerging battle and protect the left flank of Company “B”, which was heavily engaged in the firefight. BLT-1/3 continued the battle all day with everything they had available, mainly small arms, machine guns and 60 Mortars. Trapping the NVA force in the riverbed and pounding the well –camouflaged and well- entrenched NVA force with Marine fixed wing close air support with A-4 Skyhawks making repeated two-plane sections, making 500 LB bombing runs from east to west along the riverbed until late in the day. BLT-1/3 consolidated their positions along the riverbed and conducted ground patrols all night long under aerial illumination to engage NVA trying to escape during the night. The next morning, General Lew Walt, the overall U.S. Marine Commander in Vietnam, flew in from Saigon to personally compliment the three Rifle Companies of BLT-1/3 for their Combat Effectiveness. The Assault Companies of BLT-1/3 lost 22 USMC KIA, and numerous WIA and Corpsmen causalities resulting from the 10 May actions. At least three of the KIA were Posthumously Awarded the NAVY CROSS. For Operation Beavercage/ Union I, during the period 28Apr-12 May, the cost to BLT-1/3 (SLF ALFA) was 55 KIA and 151 WIA. Jerry Reczek (Col USMC Ret)
Name: Thomas A Nollmann
Email: the.sgtmaj@gmail.com
Unit: Delta Co 1/ 66/67
HomeTown: Henderson Ky.42420
B1: Submit
Date: 04/16/2014
Comments
Great site, I have been looking for one of my team leaders for over 40 yrs.His Name was L/Cpl Bottom, not sure of the spelling of his last name and don’t remember his first name. Think it might have been Tom. WE called him Top. His nickname was given to him by his team leader L/Cpl Tom Jalbert when he first arrived in Dec 66.If anyone has any info on him feel free to e-mail me and let me know. My e-mail is the.sgtmaj@gmail.com.Thanks again
Name: DARRELL FERRELL
Email: d.ferrell15@yahoo.com
Unit: WPNS 50CALS 1987 -1990
HomeTown: BALTIMORE
B1: Submit
Date: 03/10/2014
Comments
ANY of my time hit me up with a e-mail d.ferrell15@yahoo.com
Name: David L. Gould
Email: rambo180@comcast.net
Unit: C co. 1/3 1967
HomeTown: Flint,Michigan
B1: Submit
Date: 02/24/2014
Comments
Hello Don.Just wanted to let you know that i sent Bill Moran a Christmas card and i received one back from him.I will have to keep in contact with him and i am going to write a letter to Dr. Donald Teal and see how he is doing.Keep up the good work and hope that more guys will sign on.Semper Fi.
Name: Eric Thompson
Email: Ethompson3570@yahoo.com
Unit: B 1/3 67&68 Radioman
HomeTown: Washington D.C.
B1: Submit
Date: 02/14/2014
Comments
Radioman for Capt Tuckwiller and Lt. Ford/ Lt. O’dell killed at Dai Do
Name: James greeno
Email: patsox67@comcast.net
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 01/31/2014
Comments
Great site!!! my grandfather severed in Vietnam I have heard he served with the 1st 3rd marines company c, but haven’t found him so I am just wondering if it was okay to ask if anyone on this site knows or served with a JAMES F. PATTON? if so could you contact me? thank you. have a good day god bless.
Name: DAVE COLE
Email: coledv@co.steuben.ny.us
Unit: A 1/3 1968 AND 1969
HomeTown: WAYLAND, NY
B1: Submit
Date: 01/19/2014
Comments
Served with Infantry Alpha 1/3
Name:
Email:
Unit: 1/3/ B 1st Plt Present Day
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 01/12/2014
Comments
Just wanted to say we all admire you Marines, to this day. We will uphold the legacy you left
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 12/26/2013
Comments
I’m the web master here at onethreemarines.com, and was recently emailed about a Book by Jack Wells A/1/7 Marine. The Book is “Class of 67”, and has 3 chapters on 1/3 Marines. The 1/3 Marines were all Officers, so assume the Graduating CLASS of 1967. Here is what Jack sent me: Don, Three years ago I had a book published, Class of 67. In the book are three chapters on 1/3 Marines and about the battle action where they lost their lives. There are over 150 color, b&w photos in the book + a dozen maps. The men in the 3 chapters are: Lt Michael Odell, Lt Ralph Gorton, and Lt Tom Keppen. The book is on Amazon and their is a Kindle version for $9.99. Lt Tom Keppen and his B 1/3 radio operator are on the cover. s/f Jack Wells A 1/7 The 3 1/3 Marines were KIA’s in Nam. Lt. O’Dell 30Apr68 Co. “B”, Lt. Gorton 27May68 Co. “D” Posthumously Awarded Silver Star for prior Actions 28Dec67, and Lt. Keppen 7Jul68 Co.”B” Posthumously Awarded Silver Star for Actions 6Jul68. Talk to you later, Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68 Go
Name: Michael Marine
Email: revmichaelmarine@yahoo.com
Unit: Comm Plt. 1975
HomeTown: Indpls
B1: Submit
Date: 12/08/2013
Comments
Semper Fi~!
Name: BOB BOGARDUS
Email: akcbob@live.com
Unit: B COMPANY 1/3 1968 / 1969
HomeTown: PHOENIX AZ
B1: Submit
Date: 12/03/2013
Comments
Name: BOB BOGARDUS
Email: akcbob@live.com
Unit: B COMPANY 1/3 1968 / 1969
HomeTown: PHOENIX AZ
B1: Submit
Date: 12/03/2013
Comments
ANYBODY KNOW WHERE I CAN BUY OR ORDER THE BOOK (GRUNTS) BY CHARLES ANDERSON THANK YOU FOR ANY HELP
Name: Matt
Email: shellback731@hotmail.com
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 11/30/2013
Comments
My dad served in 1st Battalion / 3rd Marines in Vietnam. He arrived via Naval vessel in Da Nang Harbor in 1965 and was protecting the HAWK site.
Name: Rodger Jacobs
Email: rejacobs@charter.net
Unit: A 1/3 1966
HomeTown: Newland NC
B1: Submit
Date: 10/07/2013
Comments
Don thanks for the reply. I have recently completed my Vietnam memoir Stained with the Mud of Khe Sanh a Marine’s letters from Vietnam 1966-1967. I served with A 1/3 on hill 35 B, Kim Lin,and Khe Sanh in 1966. My letters number 39 to 96 were written at this time. Here is a bit about the book About the Book The author describes his memoir: “It’s based on wartime letters. Upon arriving at the United States Marine Corps Boot Camp one of the first things my drill instructors told me to do was to write at least two letters home a week. I did what they told me. My father, a World War II combat veteran, kept my letters, all 146 of them (and the 250 images I sent home). I continued to write all through my combat tour in Vietnam and my hospital stay in Japan recovering from wounds. I have selected and edited the most meaningful correspondence and added a narrative thread so I could tell the full story of my military experience as a high school kid from rural Ohio transformed into a Marine. The letters describe my further transformation into a war fighting Marine grunt in combat and finally will take you through my metamorphosis into a war-altered ex-Marine but a Marine still.” Rodger Jacobs lives in Newland, North Carolina.
All the Marines who have read my book have had nothing but good things to say about it. Is there a way of letting your Marines know that the book is available from the publisher McFarland or Amazon? I am hoping to get it reviewed by the VVA in their monthly. Also exploring getting the gift store at the Museum of the MC at Quantico. Semper Fi, Rodger Jacobs
Name: Alan “Doc” James
Email: ajdoc@charter.net
Unit: B 1/3 68-69
HomeTown: South Carolina
B1: Submit
Date: 09/03/2013
Comments
Hey brothers. I have met a Marine in my home town who has been searching for a particular issue of Leatherneck for years. If can part with a SEP-OCT 1977 issue you will make his day. Let me know if you have one or a source to find one.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 08/26/2013
Comments
Hello GUYS, I am back from the REUNION in Washington, DC and it was GREAT! Not as many as I had Hoped would be there, but WE that were there did have an Outstanding Time. Great Trips to the Wall and the Marine Corps Museum. Also 8th and I, for Friday Night Parade and All. Hope to see you next year in Reno, NV. The 1/3 BUNKER was the place to be and BS with the Old Marines. I had the latest History of 1/3 in Nam, 65-69, and everyone like it. I plan to START a History with MEMORIES that 1/3 Marines and Corpsmen WANT to SHARE. I think it will add more color to OUR Battalions History. Not ALL Memories are Bad ones. I Have MANY, some TUFF ones and some that will make you smile! Send me your Memories, and Together we will have a Great HISTORY to Share with Family and Friends. No Two Marines saw the same thing, WE participated in Operations Together, but YOU have your Own Memories. Think about them, and Share with others from your Company. Thanks! Send the Memories to me, Don Bumgarner the Web Guy at onethreemarines.com. My email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net , Thanks again! Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Griffith, Robert C.
Email: thenamgrunt@gmail.com
Unit: B Co. 1/3
HomeTown: York, Pa
B1: Submit
Date: 08/20/2013
Comments
Looking for any whom may have been in B. Co. 1/3 on 17 Aug 1967. Our unit was on hill ??? and were partiality over run around 02:00 hours, but we held the hill. Trying to find as much info as possible. We had one KIA and 13 WIA. tow of us received our tickets home . .I was posted in the 1st foxhole on the L. Semper Fi and OohRah
Name: Antonio Gonzales
Email: gonzales.antonio@att.net
Unit: Echo 2/3 1969
HomeTown: Lockhart,TX
B1: Submit
Date: 08/12/2013
Comments
I’m looking for Marines that might have known Sgt Alberto T Anzaldua with 3rd Platoon, Alpha 1/3. He was killed 08/10/1969 at Mutters Ridge when they came to the assistance of 3rd Platoon of Echo 2/3. Thanks for great website. http://www.echo23marines6569.org/kiaresearch/html Semper Fi,
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie co 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 07/26/2013
Comments
PICTURE NEEDED of L/Cpl Franklin HAZZARD KIA May 18th, 1967 the first day of Operation Beau Charger/Hickory. If you have a picture of Franklin please contact:To the family and friends of US Marine LCpl Franklin George Hazzard: Would you have a photo of him for the Vietnam Memorial (VVMF)? His photo is missing from all the Major Vietnam Web Sites plus the new one being built in Washington DC called “Faces on the Wall”. A High School Yearbook photo would be fine or a Newspaper or Book photo. I found your email address associated with his name on one of the Major Vietnam Web Sites. We are doing this for the new Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC that broke ground in November 2012. The photos will be displayed in this memorial once it is completed in 2014. Here is the link to that site: http://www.buildthecenter.org We have been searching for photos of these Veterans since 2006 and we need some help. Some of these Veterans we don’t have very much information on so we can try and track down a photo. Sincerely, Jim Reece, VVMF Volunteer.
Name: Eric Blumer
Email: drummer_eric66@yahoo.com
Unit: bravo co. 84-86
HomeTown: Issaquah, WA
B1: Submit
Date: 06/20/2013
Comments
When I got to K-Bay I was in bravo, but is there any way to find out what platoon I was in? I think the 2nd, but not sure. You know getting old and stuff. Memory is getting shot. I WOULD LOVE TO. TO FIND 1/3 MARINES IN THE SEATTLE. AREA. AND IS THERE A WAY TO FIIND 1/3. MARINES OVER InTHE SAND BOX I CAN WRITE TO?
Name: Michael R Merrill
Email: Mikemerrill42@yahoo.com
Unit: B Co. 1/3 63-64
HomeTown: Milford,Ma
B1: Submit
Date: 06/19/2013
Comments
Originally from New York City
Name: guy defoe
Email: guyd1963@yahoo.com
Unit: 1/3 Alpha co. weapons plt. m-60 guns
HomeTown: bayfield
B1: Submit
Date: 06/14/2013
Comments
Just want to say Hi to all the Lava Dogs out there, and see if any of my old gunner buddies found this site.
Name: Bill Betty
Email: doubleagle19th@gmail.com
Unit: USAF 18th A & E Kadena/Korot
HomeTown: Wilmington, Delaware
B1: Submit
Date: 06/08/2013
Comments
I flew into Da Nang on a C-130 on 8 March 1965 with part of the 1st/3rd that we had picked up at Naha. I watched the Marines march away toward the enemy, and I vividly recall the pride that welled up in me that I was a witness to the deployment of these brave young men. I got back onto the plane and proceeded to Korat Thailand (1st of two deployments)as a participant in the Rolling Thunder campaign against N. Vietnam, and I often wondered over the years what had been the fate of those young men of the 1st/3rd. Thus my current visit to this site. If anyone from the 1st/3rd was there, I was on the third C-130 that landed at 1400 hrs., and I would appreciate hearing from you. From an old Air Force guy…Semper Fi!
Name: Severino Umanzor
Email: dreamingofyou69@yahoo.com
Unit: Marine Corp/1999
HomeTown: Los Angeles
B1: Submit
Date: 06/05/2013
Comments
I really like this website. I visit often to get updates and learn new things about the military and veterans. I have come across many other great websites that are very informative. One website is U.S. Veteran Compensation Programs (http://www.veteranprograms.com On this website I frequently learn about the latest money available to veterans, benefits for veterans and their families, where to get discounts for veterans, and I get free things from their veteran giveaway program. Keep up the good work. I will pass the word about your website and I will visit again. Thanks!
Name: Severino Umanzor
Email: dreamingofyou69@yahoo.com
Unit: Marine Corp/1999
HomeTown: Los Angeles
B1: Submit
Date: 06/05/2013
Comments
I really like this website. I visit often to get updates and learn new things about the military and veterans. I have come across many other great websites that are very informative. One website is U.S. Veteran Compensation Programs (http://www.veteranprograms.com On this website I frequently learn about the latest money available to veterans, benefits for veterans and their families, where to get discounts for veterans, and I get free things from their veteran giveaway program. Keep up the good work. I will pass the word about your website and I will visit again. Thanks!
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Company 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 05/25/2013
Comments
Hello Marines, This is Your web Master, HOPE everyone is doing OKAY! As WE ALL Observe, the MEMORIAL DAY HOLIDAY, let’s REMEMBER Our Fallen BROTHERS! WE ALL have Buddies and Friends, on the WALL! Also, LOTS of Our Brothers have passed to soon, from Agent Orange related issues. Say a PRAYER for them ALL, and Remember them ALL. If you have time, maybe go to the Vietnam Wall section, and leave a message under their name there. Remember ALL the Service Members from ALL the Wars too. I Hope ALL Our BROTHERS continue to REST IN PEACE, and KNOW they are REMEMBERED! Semper Fi to ALL You Remembered MARINES and CORPSMEN. Don B C/1/3 67-68
Name: Don Bumgarner-Web Master
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 05/10/2013
Comments
I received this email from Mellon Dan Robertson with A/1/3, who is looking for D/1/3 Corpsmen from 1965. If you can HELP, please contact HIM at email below: ******* Don, I have been sending this to Delta CO. Corpsman from 1965. It keeps coming back. As you can see I now have more details, but my emails keep coming back. Please let me know 1, if you get this and 2, if you know how I can reach a D Company Corpsman. Not sure I can or have found your web site? my name is Mellon “Dan” Robertson. I was in Alpha Company in 1965. On April 16 1965 we were relieving Delta Co. and I was on an out post. The VC came at us, and we exchanged shots in the night. I was not shot, but they were definitely in the R’s as a bullet hit a tree beside me, and I got splinters in my face, and left eye. I was identified as a WIA, but at the time I did not want it identified for a purple heart (although it was suggested) because it was not a bullet”hole”!! . Dumb ass Marines right. The next day D company returned and your corpsman treated me and we were relieved. What I am trying to do is find out who the corpsman was who treated me, or a copy of the report he did. I was clearly identified as WIA, and I now would like to get my Purple Heart. Do you remember who the Corpsman was for D Co. in 1965? The records identify that a Marine was WIA, but does not identify who it was. If you can recall this I would greatly appreciate your help. My email address is doltrol45@aol.com thank you semper fi Dan Robertson
Name: Steve Bozeman
Email: ironcouple.sdb@juno.com
Unit: HMM 361, 1067
HomeTown: Lynchburg, Virginia
B1: Submit
Date: 05/06/2013
Comments
Would like to locate the black Marine I pulled out of burning helicopter, which was shot down on May 4, 1967 just few miles south of Marble Mountain Air Facility. I was the machine gunner and we picked up two wounded around 1700 @ BT038688. One white Marine shot in leg, other black Marine shot in chest and was on stretcher. We lifted off ground and received incoming fire, which caught top of helicoper (UH-34) on fire and we crashed near CAP outpost. All got out and helicopter burned up. Believe both medi-evacs were transported to First Med. Was informed recently Delta Co. of 1/3 on Operation “Beaver Cage” were the Marines wounded that afternoon. Call me 434 384-7609. Thanks.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 04/25/2013
Comments
Just Passing this Information ON! My name is William L. Myers and I have just completed another book, Marines, Medals and Vietnam. The book includes a chapter about Operation Orange which took place on the first days of April in 1966 involving Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines. You will recognize the names of many of its members. Among them are Floyd Darrh, Curtis Baggett, David Boos, Dennis Peterson, John Hagler, Ken Martin, Jim Berheide, Grady Gardner, Claude Lebas, Manuel Avalos, Dale Lawson, Alexander Menzies, Irwin Gordon, Gerold McDougall, Roy Parr, Willis Wilson, Daniel Kaylor, Thurman Owen, Michael Cirrilo, Gwinn Henry, David Patten, Daniel Piotrowski, Webster Bernhardt, Milton Pittman, Gary Nail, Hugh Vintus, Donald Burton, Richard Hunt, Randolph Redmond, Duane Pounder and others that are too numerous to mention. The book is a collection of stories of Marines in combat in Vietnam. It is a softcover edition and is a quality work that sells for $25.00 plus $3.00 for postage and handling. I would prefer to sell the books directly from this address. Payment to me can be check, money order or PayPal (redoubt363@gmail.com). The book is also available on amazon.com. You may want to go there to see what the cover looks like and read what others have to say about Marines, Medals and Vietnam. The book may also be ordered from there. The January, 2013 edition of Leatherneck magazine includes an excellent review of the book that is written by retired Colonel Kenneth D. Jordan. Marine Corps Association members may purchase a copy for $22.50 from the MCA Bookservice. You may also listen to an interview conducted on the website Stand at Ease about Marines, Medals and Vietnam, at http://standatease.org/node/74 One of the persons conducting the interview is James L. Johnson, Jr., a Marine who earned the Navy Cross during Operation Dewey Canyon in 1969. Fred Monahan, who earned the Navy Cross with Echo 2/3 during the Hill Fights in April of 1967, writes, “I purchased copies of both books. Every Marine should have these books in his library. Both are outstanding.” Ken Pipes, who earned the Silver Star during the fighting around Khe Sanh, adds, “This book is tremendously well written and professionally done. This work makes Billy a major Marine Corps Historian and a hero to all of us who served in Bravo 1/26 at Khe Sanh.” I will inscribe each book as you desire. It is my hope that everyone whose name appears in the book will have a chance to read it. This book was written for Marines by a Marine. It is a good one that I am extremely proud of. My first book, Honor the Warrior, was well received within the Marine Corps community. This one is similarly structured and contains 16 different stories. It also includes a much more comprehensive medals list which includes many Marines and Navy Corpsmen from Bravo 1/3. It consists of 392 pages and includes 166 individual photographs of Marines. I have many unit personnel rosters, casualty lists, award citations and the like that I have accumulated while doing research for this book and the medals lists. Let me know what you are interested in. If I have them they are yours for the asking. Semper Fidelis! Billy William L. Myers 4715 Woodlawn Road Maurice, Louisiana 70555 (337) 898-0191 williammyers363@gmail.com
Name: John Jeffries
Email: jjeffries2@triad.rr.com
Unit: 2nd Plt, Bravo Co, H&S Co.
HomeTown: Greensboro, NC
B1: Submit
Date: 04/09/2013
Comments
Name: Norman Huddy
Email: Anitaknitter@yahoo.com
Unit: 1969 1/3 Delta Co. 3rd Plat. 3rd Squad
HomeTown: PA/Florida
B1: Submit
Date: 03/25/2013
Comments
Name: Norman Huddy
Email: Anitaknitter@yahoo.com
Unit: 1969 1/3 Delta Co. 3rd Plat. 3rd Squad
HomeTown: P
B1: Submit
Date: 03/25/2013
Comments
Name: Cody Nelson
Email: nelsoncody006@gmail.com
Unit: n/a
HomeTown: New jersey
B1: Submit
Date: 03/14/2013
Comments
Hello Marines! My names Cody Nelson, and my father died when i was really young am i trying to figure out more about him, He was PFC John W. Nelson, i believe 1/3 serving in Dong Ha area, i believe with a special landing force unit. during 1967-1968 if anyone knew him can someone please email me? Thank you Marines
Name: Cody Nelson
Email: nelsoncody006@gmail.com
Unit: n/a
HomeTown: New jersey
B1: Submit
Date: 03/14/2013
Comments
Hello Marines! My names Cody Nelson, and my father died when i was really young am i trying to figure out more about him, He was PFC John W. Nelson, i believe 1/3 serving in Dong Ha area, i believe with a special landing force unit. during 1967-1968 if anyone knew him can someone please email me? Thank you Marines
Name: Cody Nelson
Email: nelsoncody006@gmail.com
Unit: n/a
HomeTown: New jersey
B1: Submit
Date: 03/14/2013
Comments
Hello Marines! My names Cody Nelson, and my father died when i was really young am i trying to figure out more about him, He was PFC John W. Nelson, i believe 1/3 serving in Dong Ha area, i believe with a special landing force unit. during 1967-1968 if anyone knew him can someone please email me? Thank you Marines
Name: Cody Nelson
Email: nelsoncody006@gmail.com
Unit: n/a
HomeTown: New jersey
B1: Submit
Date: 03/14/2013
Comments
Name: Chris Murphy
Email: crmurphy9814@yahoo.com
Unit: 1/3 93-97
HomeTown: Wills Point, TX
B1: Submit
Date: 03/09/2013
Comments
It seems a lifetime ago. Still feel the pride. Semper Fi Marines
Name: M.Logsdon
Email: mglt1988@casscomm.com
Unit: 3rd 1943-1946
HomeTown: Beardstown,Illinois
B1: Submit
Date: 03/05/2013
Comments
George Buck 3rd Marines unit: 1st Battalion 12th Marines 1943 to 2-2-46…IWO JIMA-GUAM and TARAWA Died February 25th 2013 at age 97 in Springfield ,Illinois of pnuemonia and intestenial blockage.George Buck lived a long and fullfilled life and was one HELL of a MAN and 3rd MARINE!.. SEMPER FIDELIS
Name: David Vuicich
Email: whskyjck@mchsi.com
Unit: H&S co. Viet Nam 1965
HomeTown: Hibbing, Minnesota
B1: Submit
Date: 03/03/2013
Comments
First trip to Nam, Nov 1964 with Gen. Davis’ staff. Later stationed DaNang, and Monkey/Marble Mountain. Was corpsman with Charlie Company. Trying to find complete H&S 1-3 Roster Sept 1964-Oct 1965. I have roster list complete up to the attached corpsman. Top of my last page starts with Foster. P.D., and ends with the beginning of the corpsman list…Bailey, J.L. When applying for disability, my Veterans Affairs Officer misplaced the page containing the company corpsman and of course my name was on that page. Would like a copy for sentimental reasons. Any help would be appreciated. If on this site, Hi and SEMPER FI to Docs Cooper, and F. C. Plass.
Name: David Palmer
Email: david@gmail.com
Unit:
HomeTown: San Diego, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 02/14/2013
Comments
FANTASTIC Website! I added your link to my bookmark, and forwarded your website to my friends. I really appreciate this tremendous resource. Also, another great website is http://www.veteranprograms.com where veterans can learn about hidden government benefits, how to properly increase their compensation, take part in super giveaway specials for veterans, and find out what merchants are giving discounts to veterans. Keep up the great job!
Name: John Clayton
Email: vangone47@hotmail.com
Unit: H&S Comm 1965-1966
HomeTown: Greenville, TX
B1: Submit
Date: 02/09/2013
Comments
Looking for other H&S Comm vets.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 01/26/2013
Comments
Hello ALL Vietnam Veterans, Pass this web site to ALL the Vietnam Veterans you know. Great Site for ALL the Services. Command Chronology for most UNITS that served in NAM! The site: http://www.recordsofwar.com/vietnam/ Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3
Name: Brett Bailey
Email: deadhorsenomad@yahoo.com
Unit: A Co. 1/3 1989-1992
HomeTown: Eagle River Alaska
B1: Submit
Date: 01/23/2013
Comments
If any of my fellow Marines from A 1/3 in ’89-92 are interested, I have published a book on our time over there. It’s entitled: Downtown Saudi Arabia. Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble or wordassociation.com Thanks, Semper Fi
Name: Dale Creek
Email: dale@thedawntreader.com
Unit: VMA-121, MAG-12, 1stMAW 1966-68
HomeTown: Santa Barbara
B1: Submit
Date: 01/23/2013
Comments
Sgt Elpidio Arquero, B/1/3 was one of my DI’s at MCRD San Diego Plt162, 1965. He taught me what it meant to be a Marine… Our planes, out of Chu Lai, flew in support of Beaver Cage. God Bless You ALL… Semper Fi, Cpl D. Creek
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 01/10/2013
Comments
Just passing this on to the Guest Book. Dear Friends at 1st Battalion/3rd Marines, Many returning Veterans suffering from PTSD and other medical conditions, are prescribed prescription medications to help ease not only physical but mental pain. These drugs however are very addicting and are commonly misused. Statistics show veterans who were prone to drug abuse and addiction, were given these drugs and were more likely to suffer from misuse. Other forms of help should have been provided and wasn’t and now there are those suffering for it. My name is Nathan the communications director for Bestdrugrehabilitation.com letting you know we have compiled one of the most extensive resources on addiction and recovery on the internet. I implore you to include our link, Drug Rehabilitation, to your links page, http://www.onethreemarines.com/Links.htm to help spread information on drug rehabilitation. Please contact me back if you have any questions and whether you intent to include us or not. Regards, Nathan Sims Nathan@bestdrugrehabilitation.com
Name: Mick culp
Email: mickeyculp@yahoo.com
Unit: -H&S
HomeTown: Monon Ind
B1: Submit
Date: 01/04/2013
Comments
Looking for Larry schoonover co driver last addres Missouri
Name: John A. Jeffries
Email: jeffriesllc@comcast.net
Unit: D 1/3 1966
HomeTown: Miami
B1: Submit
Date: 12/18/2012
Comments
Looking for anyone in my squad, especially those wounded the night of 9/17/1966
Name: Darrell Harrison
Email: bravo1bravo@sbcglobal.net
Unit: Bravo 1/3 ’67
HomeTown: Dallas
B1: Submit
Date: 12/17/2012
Comments
Looking for Gary Caudill and Ron Farnsworth, B 1/3 in country ’67 and ’68
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 12/15/2012
Comments
Test for Guest Book!
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 12/14/2012
Comments
Info from 12-0-2012-Information on Bill O’Connor aka “Big-O” in Oregon! Hello Guys, Former C/1/3 Lt Dick CHAPA (1967), wants all of C/1/3 guys that might have known Bill O’Conner or “Big-O” as most of us knew him, that he is bedridden and in a convalescent hospital at this time (Christmas Time). If you knew “Big-O” and wish to send a Christmas card, which will raise his spirits, please do. I sent a card to his house, but will send another to the convalescent home too. If we all send a card, they in the convalescent home will know they have a Special Marine at their place. “Big-O” did make it to most Reunions in the past, and he was LOVED by everyone there. Due to his medical condition, he was unable to be in San Diego this year. As WE ALL, celebrate the Christmas Holiday Season, do keep “Big-O” in your prayers. Talk to you later, Semper Fi, Don B or “Bum” C/1/3 67-68 Lt Chapa’s email to me is below! Subject: Don: I am not sure if you wish to publish this but it was worth a try. One Marine of C/1/3 is bedridden at a convalescent home in Woodburn, OR. since about November 9, 2012, but prior to that he was admitted to the VA Hospital in Portland, OR. after suffering a series of sever migraines and loss of muscle functions from below the waist. His name is William O’Conner AKA “BIG O.” He was Lance Corporal and was wounded in Beaver Cage/Union and later on Beacon Point from a wound to the head. Rotated to US in early October 1967 before Operation Medina. Served as a rifleman (0311) in 1st Platoon and later to 3rd Platoon. Discharged under Honorable conditions and returned to his home in Salem, OR. Lived in Salem, OR. and was enrolled in VA for medical assistance since approximately 1971-72 with service related wounds. He was diagnosed with PTSD and later with TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury). He was in C/1/3 when we were SLF (Apr67 thru Oct/67) and is currently a patient at: French Prairie Convalescent Home 601 Evergreen Road Woodburn, OR 97071 (503) 982-0111 He has no phone in his room and no access to Email but he has access to a pre-paid phone. If you need or desire that phone number, I will provide it later. I have included Colonel Reczeck as “CC” at the expressed wishes of “Big O.” Dick Richard E. Chapa
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C Company 67-67
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 12/14/2012
Comments
Info from 11-16-2012-Hello Guys, I have received a request to let you know about a New Book about the NAVY CROSS being awarded in Vietnam. John Reid from C/1/3 received the Navy Cross Posthumously on May 10th, 1967 on Operation Beaver Cage/Union in the Que Son Valley. This might make a Great Christmas Present. Read below, thanks Don B C/1/3 67-68…………………. Don: My name is William L. Myers and I have just completed another book, Marines, Medals and Vietnam. Included in the book is a list of Marines who earned the Navy Cross in Vietnam. Among the names on the are John Yates, James Ward, Armand Thouvenel, William Wirick, William Laraway, Duncan Sleigh, Michael Spark, Karl Marlantes, Donald Reilly, James Reilly,John Reid, Gerald Sampson, Jettie Rivers, Dennie Peterson, John Loweranitis,James Norris, Waarren Ralya, Darrell Ray, Glen Lunsford, Donald Koelper, Terrance Meier,Charles Lauer, John Muir, Steve Srsen, James Stuckey, Barry Thoryk and Thomas Soliz. The book is a collection of stories of Marines in combat in Vietnam. It is a softcover edition and is a quality work that sells for $25.00 plus $3.00 for postage and handling. I would prefer to sell the books directly from this address. Payment to me can be check, money order or PayPal (redoubt363@gmail.com). The book is also available on amazon.com. You may want to go there to see what the cover looks like and read what others have to say about Marines, Medals and Vietnam. The book may also be ordered from there. You may also listen to an interview conducted on the website Stand at Ease about Marines, Medals and Vietnam, at http://standatease.org/node/74 One of the persons conducting the interview is James L. Johnson, Jr., a Marine who earned the Navy Cross during Operation Dewey Canyon in 1969. I will inscribe each book as you desire. It is my hope that everyone whose name appears in the book will have a chance to read it. This book was written for Marines by a Marine. It is a good one that I am extremely proud of. My first book, Honor the Warrior, was well received within the Marine Corps community. This one is similarly structured and contains 16 different stories. It also includes a much more comprehensive medals list which includes many Marines and Navy Corpsmen from Echo /2/3. It consists of 392 pages and includes 155 individual photographs of Marines. Semper Fidelis! Billy William L. Myers 4715 Woodlawn Road Maurice, Louisiana 70555 (337) 898-0191 redoubt@cox.net
Name: John Wear
Email: johnwear@yahoo.com
Unit: 3rd Tanks, ’68 – ’69
HomeTown: New Hope, PA…it’s near Philly
B1: Submit
Date: 10/07/2012
Comments
I found an image of a Zippo lighter in the 3rd Mar Div Association newsletter that is inscribe with a name and unit (see below). The current owner of the lighter is looking for the original owner so he can return the lighter to him. D.G. Peters **Then his serial number** USMC SLF 1st Bn, 3rd Mar Tank Platoon Short timer Does anyone know D.G. Peters?
Name: Michael Bodin
Email: bodin0231@gmail.com
Unit: H&S Co/1994, Alpha Co 1st PLT/1997 (Golf Co. 2/3 3rd PLT 91-94)
HomeTown: Slidell, LA
B1: Submit
Date: 10/03/2012
Comments
Searching for old buddy and came across site and found what I was looking for. Thanks to the creator of this site
Name: Dick Cleary
Email: clearyrp@msn.com
Unit: Bravo 68-69
HomeTown: Mammoth AZ
B1: Submit
Date: 09/17/2012
Comments
UPDATE: All of the emails from this web site have been sent. We have about 420 or so dead links so please make sure your link is good — if it is not contact Don with the correct info. We may need this info for future communications but more importantly this is the why many of us find and locate someone!! I will have more to post later in the week on the various recruiting initiatives as I am waiting to hear back from some of you now; Keep up the energy!
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 09/12/2012
Comments
Test Wednesday 9-12-12
Name: Dick Cleary
Email: clearyrp@msn.com
Unit: Bravo 68-69
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 09/12/2012
Comments
Hello to everyone! As we discussed at the both the mini and main reunion meetings, 1/3 has agreed to work a bit harder this year than in the past to recruit new members. As part of that, the 1/3 Board was to develop some sort of action plan. Although not codified in a particular format the action plan is as follows: RECRUIT No idea is a bad one. We have begun initiatives in several areas – Ken Hicks is identifying the potential for an ad in Leatherneck. Ray Kelley has volunteered to do the roster clean up work that Don spoke about below for D Company. We are still looking for assistance for Alpha and Bravo Companies. Additionally, we have discussed contacting all of the various satellite unit organizations. I will be calling the leadership of all of them I can identify and offer the Association. However, I will also be advising them that membership is not exclusive so we will be contacting their individual members when we find them. Call your local newspaper regarding an ad. Many will publish something for free. Contact all of those local weekly newsletters for cost and ad placement. Do all you can and all you can think of. CALTRAP can accept reciprocal advertising but make sure you speak with Gunny Gee before you make any promises or finalize anything. But that is an option for State VFW’s and American Legions and many other state or national organizations. Joe Bongiovanni will be setting up the FACEBOOK page. As that develops, bring your ideas for the page to either Joe directly or me. Please feel free to contact me anytime to share ideas or concerns. My home number is 520 487 0327. I will return your call if I am not available when you call. Keep in mind —- this is an assault! Enough time has been spent on all of the hurt feelings and reasons why things can’t be done. The WW II men are mostly not around any longer and that is a terrible loss for us all. The new Board is mostly Vietnam and Gulf War veterans. The dynamic has shifted. No more defense — assault!!! (I love it!) Starting tomorrow, I will begin the process of sending out emails to everyone on our roster with two attachments for recruiting purposes. PLEASE read the accompanying narrative and get out there and recruit. This is not a hard task — we talk to our fellow Marine brothers all the time. Now, we just need to keep recruiting in mind and focus some portion of the discussion to where they served. If they were with us — in any capacity — they are eligible as our their immediate family members.
Name: Dick Cleary
Email: clearyrp@msn.com
Unit: Bravo 68-69
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 09/12/2012
Comments
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 09/03/2012
Comments
Hello Guys, At the Mini 1/3 Reunion in San Diego, WE attempted to get someone from Each Company to VOLUNTEER to Make a List of their Company’s Vietnam Veterans. I myself, do the list for C/1/3. I maintain this LIST, and send emails about the Reunions, Fellow Marines that have passed, and any other information, I feel needs to be forwarded to ALL that I have Email Addresses. Then I copy my Reunion Email, and send via US Mail to ALL the others from C/1/3 that I have a current address for. From MY EFFORTS, many Marines have made it to the Reunions and Did ENJOY themselves. I will get together with Ray Kelley from D/1/3, who Volunteered to do the List for Delta Company, and help him get started. WE NEED, a Volunteer from ALPHA, BRAVO, and H&S Companies to Handle THEIR COMPANY’S LIST! Those INTERESTED, can Contact ME, I am the Web Master for this web site and also the VP for the 1/3 Association. To ME it is REWARDING to get ALL OUR Brothers, to the Reunions. Many have approached Me at the different Reunions, and Thanked me for sending the Information. I Hope to hear from Someone from Alpha, Bravo, and H&S Companies, WHO WANT to maintain a List for their respective Company. I will FORWARD the Reunion Info to Them, and they in turn Forward it to the Marines and Corpsmen, on their Lists. 1st Battalion 3rd Marines had a Good Showing at this past Reunion in San Diego. Thanks, Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 08/26/2012
Comments
Hello MARINES and CORPSMEN from 1/3, the 2012 Reunion in San Diego, CA is over with. For those that did not make it, YOU missed one GREAT TIME. There were lots of OLD 1/3 Marines and Corpsmen. I think C/1/3 had about 20 plus there. Most had served during my Tour. WOW! Then many from D/1/3 and many from the rest of the Battalion. Including ME, six of us that had gone to Vietnam together in Feb 1967 and joined the Battalion were there, all had 2 or 3 Purple Hearts, I was in 60 Mortars and Shot at and MISSED (NO Purple Hearts). There was 41 First Timers this year. The 1/3 BUNKER was the Hot Spot for War Stories and BEER and Good Cheer. It was always crowded with Good Folks, and lively Talk. I had my pictures and History, and lots enjoyed them too. Including ME(Don Bumgarner) C/1/3 was represented by Don Ahrens, Roger Bacon, Lucas Becenti, Frank Bilbao, Ken Burkitt, Ward Downey, Steve Fanter, Ray Fromsdorf, T.H. Hal Guerin, richard Hagood, Roger Henry, Ed Kalwara, Ed Little, Joe Mastrian, Jim O’neill, Wayne Pilgreen, Jimmy Pitts, Jerry Reczek (once Our Captain), Terry Roberson, Ron Sutton, Bill Taylor, Don Teal (adopted by C/1/3 our Chief Surgeon aboard the USS Okinawa-SLF Alpha), and Jerry Willis. I hope I REMEMBERED everyone I saw there. THANKS Guys, for making this one of the better REUNIONS for ME! SEEING You All again, is what the REUNIONS are all about! HOPE to see you all again next year in Washington DC area. For those that could not make THIS REUNION, Hope you can make the DC REUNION next year, you won’t be disappointed. Thank You to ALL the other Marines that made this Reunion too. Semper Fi, Till next time, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: william osborne
Email: boydsprw1@live.com
Unit: c co 7th engr bn 1st marine div 66/67
HomeTown: chatsworth ga
B1: Submit
Date: 08/21/2012
Comments
if you served at that time with me e mail me
Name: Stephen F. Reep
Email: topreep@bellsouth.net
Unit: Bravo 67-68
HomeTown: Lincolnton,NC 28092
B1: Submit
Date: 08/19/2012
Comments
Hey guys hope you have a great reunion. Ann and I will not be there this year due to myself having to go through some VA procedures here in August. We plan to see you guys in D.C. next August. Semper Fidelis MGySgt Stephen F Reep 0369 retired
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 08/13/2012
Comments
Test Sunday 8-12-12
Name: Jennifer
Email: Jenniferbare@aol.com
Unit: 1/3 bravo company 1965-1967
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 08/11/2012
Comments
Just wondering if you served with my Father. His name is James Crow. Just curious about his life during active duty in Vietnam. Thank you.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 08/08/2012
Comments
Hello Guys, LESS than 2 weeks till the Reunion in San Diego. HOPE a lot of you will be there. C/1/3 should have a good showing, as many I have heard, are going to be there. Frank BILBAO from Idaho, is going to be there this year, last seen by most, Dec 17th, 1967 when he and his Rocket Team were BURNED by Napalm (oops), our first day at C-4 Compound. It will be lots of FUN, and many Good Memories. WE (Ken, Roger, Bill, and I) will have OUR pictures to Share of OUR RETURN to Vietnam April/May of this year. Bill Ervin and his wife An were our Tour Guides, they will be at the Reunion too. See YA ALL there. Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Henly Shelton
Email: 5236henly@gmail.com
Unit: 1/3 HS 68/69
HomeTown: PENSACOLA
B1: Submit
Date: 07/30/2012
Comments
This site is great. How does one become a member. Life for those who have fought for it – Has a flavor the protected will never know.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: Charlie Company 1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 07/25/2012
Comments
Hello GUYS!Hope everyone has made their plans to be at the Reunion in San Diego next month. Should be a great time, and lots of C/1/3 and 1/3 Marines there.IF YOU are thinking about the Reunion, Going you will not be sorry. I’m on a Trip up through Colorado and going back to Idaho again too. SEE YOU at the REUNION> Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Gary Brandt
Email: gbrandt50@gmail.com
Unit: 1/3 Cooks !
HomeTown: Cumming,Iowa
B1: Submit
Date: 07/17/2012
Comments
i was a cook at Anderson Hall from 77-80
Name: Dray, Michael L.
Email: mikedray49@yahoo.com
Unit: A co.,1st bn, 3rd mar., wpns. plt. 60 mm/1967/68
HomeTown: Pontiac, mi
B1: Submit
Date: 07/15/2012
Comments
SEMPER FI Brothers.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 07/12/2012
Comments
Hello Guys, The REUNION in San Diego is 40 days from NOW! The Cut-off for Rooms at the Town and Country Resort Hotel, is July 20th (8 days from now). The REUNION should be a GREAT FUN Adventure for ALL. Many C/1/3 Marines and Corpsmen, will be coming for the 1st time. HOPE You can make it too. Semper Fi, Don B C//1/3 67-68
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 06/27/2012
Comments
Hello ALL, I’m still on my Trip. Still in Idaho, having a good time, and enjoying my time with my friends. Talk more when I get home. S/F Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Larry Baker
Email: larrybaker777@yahoo.com
Unit: C 1/3 68-69
HomeTown: Eagle Point, Oregon
B1: Submit
Date: 06/22/2012
Comments
I was part of Jenkins squad the morning he was killed. I remember the day Gary Guest got killed, and visited Carl Kitchens in the “Sand Bag Hospital” in Dong Ha. Wish I could remember more names. Man where did the time go. My oldest will be forty and her son 21 this year! Semper Fi, Larry
Name: James Grove
Email: grovej@stjoelive.com
Unit: 1/3 2/3 3/3 0341/0441 1975-1977
HomeTown: Agency Missouri
B1: Submit
Date: 06/22/2012
Comments
Served with all 3 Bat in the middle 70s. Wild times! Went to training Nov 1975 on the Big Island and was lucky enough to be in the Corp for the 200th Birthday on the Big Island at Puakaloua training area. Last 5 months in the Corp Bat went on a cruse to Calf which I was asked if I wanted to go since I was short (less than 6 months) so I stayed back. No one gave me any orders after they all deployed sooooooo hehhehe I would get up in the morning, eat breakfast and head for the beach. After about a month of this partying they figured me out. 😦 I was told to go to S4 to be a MIM/MARES clerk, I was still a Lance Cpl. A Cpl Beatty was my boss at the time. Our MIMS/MARES was a total shambles at the time I got there. We turned that around and got everything squared away. We had a Commanding Gen inspection in March 1977 iirc and in late April I was given a MM for my job in helping unfuc# to office. The day I left the island I was promoted to Cpl and was discharged in early May 1977. I went on to become a Firefighter in a suburb of KC in Johnson County KS. Served 28 years with CFD#2 retireing as a firetruck driver. People I remember by last name. West 0341 Capabiancia 0341 Beaty S4 Admin Capt Bobbett S4 commander (thank you for the promotion)
Name: Donn Heizmann
Email: dheizmann@optonline.net
Unit: H&S 1967
HomeTown: Irvington, NJ
B1: Submit
Date: 06/21/2012
Comments
I am very proud to have served with all of you guys. Semper Fi
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 06/18/2012
Comments
Hello GUYS, I’m the WEB Master at this site, and will be gone for up to 3 weeks, I should be back by July 7th, and will Up-Date any information at that time. Hope you all have good time while I am gone, and THINK about the REUNION in August 21st to 26th in San Diego. Take Care, Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email:
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 06/15/2012
Comments
Friday June 15th Test # 1. Hope everyone is doing OKAY, and planning on going to the REUNION in August in San Diego!
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email:
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 06/09/2012
Comments
Saturday June 9th. Test #1. HOPE Everyone is doing Okay! Remember the REUNION in San Diego in August!
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email:
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 06/07/2012
Comments
Thursday June 7th, 2012 Test # 1 ! HOPE EVERYONE is having a GOOD DAY!
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email:
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 06/03/2012
Comments
Test Sunday June 3rd, 6:45PM
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 06/02/2012
Comments
Hello MARINES and CORPSMEN, Hope you are planing on going to the REUNION in San Diego, August 21st to 26th. That is 80 Days from today. TIME to start making your Reservations, and getting Excited to see everyone again, as the Reunion will be here faster than you think. Hope to see you there, WE will have a Good Time. See Ya there, Semper Fi, Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Mike E. Johnson
Email: mikeandbeckynevada@yahoo.com
Unit: WPNS CO. 1/3 (83′-87′)
HomeTown: Minneapolis, MN
B1: Submit
Date: 06/01/2012
Comments
Served USMC 1983-87′. MOS: 0351 Marine Barracks Duty, NAS North Island,Coronado, CA(84′-85′) Weapons Co., 1ST Bat. 3RD Mar DIV.,Dragons Platoon, Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii (86′-87′) Recalled Active Duty Operation Desert Storm( USMC Reserves-Saudi Arabia 1990-1991)
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 05/31/2012
Comments
Thursday May 31st Test #1
Name: Rodger Jacobs
Email: rejacobs@charter.net
Unit: A Co 1966-67
HomeTown: Newland NC
B1: Submit
Date: 05/30/2012
Comments
Looking for a guy named Pops that I served with at Khe Sanh Pops was WIA in May 67
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C/1/3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 05/29/2012
Comments
Tuesday morning, Test #2.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email:
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 05/29/2012
Comments
Tuesday Morning Test #1
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 05/29/2012
Comments
Memorial Night Test #2
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 05/28/2012
Comments
Test Memorial Day!
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: C-1-3 67-68
HomeTown: Whittier, CA
B1: Submit
Date: 05/28/2012
Comments
TODAY, being the Memorial Day Holiday for 2012, I’m THINKING about ALL of OUR MARINE BROTHERS on the WALL! 45 Years ago this year, I was in Vietnam with C-1-3 and WE LOST a lot of Great Marines and HEROES Hope ALL of you Guys KNOW you are Remembered and Not Forgotten, and can continue to Rest In Peace. Hope your FAMILIES, are doing the Best they can too. THANK YOU for Your Service, Your SACRIFICE, and Semper Fidelis! Don B C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Bill Ervin
Email: billinnam@gmail.com
Unit: D-1-3 1969
HomeTown: Da Nang Vietnam
B1: Submit
Date: 05/22/2012
Comments
Hi y’all. Just signed up for the reunion in San Diego. Should be a great turn out this year.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email:
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 05/10/2012
Comments
Test #1 Thursday May 10th, 2012 RIP JIM!
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email:
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 05/09/2012
Comments
HOME from Vietnam! What a TRIP! Thank You Bill Ervin and Anh!
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email: dbumc13usmc@verizon.net
Unit: 67-68
HomeTown: Charlie-1-3
B1: Submit
Date: 05/07/2012
Comments
Hello Marines-A new GUEST BOOK Page has been created, and if you made a entry in the last few months, Check page GB-18. THANKS Your Web Master Don D C/1/3 67-68.
Name: Bill ervin
Email: billinnam@gmail.com
Unit: D-1-3
HomeTown: Da Nang Vietnam
B1: Submit
Date: 05/07/2012
Comments
I’ve enjoyed having Don Bumgarner, Roger Bacon,Ken Burkitt, and Bill Taylor and his son over here to Nam for a visit.
Name: Don Bumgarner
Email:
Unit:
HomeTown:
B1: Submit
Date: 05/07/2012
Comments
Just Updated this page for NEW entries, May 7, 2012
1st Battalion / 3rd Marines 