FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Ed, it would be good to see that photograph of Nixon's VC-137 and use it on the TSNA Photograph of the Month.

Name:  Dave Koopman,  (460th Field Maintenance Squadron)                Apr 14 2008
Email:  
Comments:

VIETNAM COMMON MYTHS:

Myth:  The media have reported that suicides among Vietnam veterans range from 50,000 to 100,000 - 6 to 11 times the non-Vietnam veteran population.
Fact:  Mortality studies show that 9,000 is a better estimate.  The CDC Vietnam Experience Study Mortality Assessment showed that during the first 5 years after discharge, deaths from suicide were 1.7 times more likely among Vietnam veterans than non-Vietnam veterans.  After that initial post-service period the rate of suicides is less.

Myth:  Common belief is that a disproportionate number of blacks were killed in the Vietnam War.
Fact:  86% of the men who died in Vietnam were Caucasians, 12.5% were black, 1.2% were other races.  Black fatality figures were proportional to the number of blacks in the U.S. population at the time and slightly lower than the proportion of blacks in the Army at the close of the war.

Myth  Common belief is that the war was fought largely by the poor and uneducated.
Fact:  Servicemen who went to Vietnam from well-to-do areas had a slightly elevated risk of dying because they were more likely to be pilots or infantry officers.  Vietnam Veterans were the best educated forces our nation had ever sent into combat. 79% had a high school education or better.

Myth:  The Common belief in the U.S. is that the domino theory was proved false.
Fact:  The domino theory was accurate.  The ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand stayed free of Communism because of the U.S. commitment to Vietnam.  The Indonesians threw the Soviets out in 1966 because of America's commitment in Vietnam. Without that commitment, Communism would have swept all the way to the Malacca Straits that is south of Singapore and of great strategic importance to the free world.  The Vietnam War was the turning point for Communism.

Myth:  The common belief is that the fighting in Vietnam was not as intense as in World War II.
Fact:  The average infantryman in the South Pacific during World War II saw about 40 days of combat in four years.  The average infantryman in Vietnam saw about 240 days of combat in one year thanks to the mobility of the helicopter.  One out of every 10 Americans who served in Vietnam was a casualty.  58,148 were killed and 304,000 wounded out of 2.7 million who served.  Although the percent that died is similar to other wars, amputations or crippling wounds were 300% higher than in World War II .... 75,000 Vietnam veterans are severely disabled.   MEDEVAC helicopters flew nearly 500,000 missions.  Over 900,000 patients were airlifted (nearly half were American).  The average time lapse between wounding to hospitalization was less than one hour.  As a result, less than one percent of all Americans wounded, who survived the first 24 hours, died.

Myth:  Kim Phuc, the little nine year old Vietnamese girl running naked from the napalm strike near Trang Bang on 8 June 1972 was burned by Americans bombing Trang Bang.
Fact:  No American had involvement in this incident near Trang Bang that burned Phan Thi Kim Phuc.  The planes doing the bombing near the village were VNAF (Vietnam Air Force) and were being flown by Vietnamese pilots in support of South Vietnamese troops on the ground.  The Vietnamese pilot who dropped the napalm in error is currently living in the United States.   Even the AP photographer, Nick Ut, who took the picture, was Vietnamese.  The incident in the photo took place on the second day of a three day battle between the North Vietnamese Army (NVA) who occupied the village of Trang Bang and the ARVN (Army of the Republic of Vietnam) who were trying to force the NVA out of the village.  Reports in the news media that an American commander ordered the air strike are incorrect.  There were no Americans involved in any capacity.  The Commanding General of TRAC at that time said Americans had nothing to do with controlling VNAF.

Myth:  The United States lost the war in Vietnam.
Fact:  The American military was not defeated in Vietnam.  The American military did not lose a battle of any consequence.  From a military standpoint, it was almost an unprecedented performance.  General Westmoreland said the war was a major military defeat for the VC and NVA.  The United States did not lose the war in Vietnam, the South Vietnamese did.

[Source: NM e-Veterans News 9 Jan 06 - Research accredited to Capt. Marshal Hanson, U.S.N.R (Ret.) & Statistical Source Capt. Scott Beaton]



David E. Koopman
TSNA Life Member

Name:  George Plunkett,  (1961st Communications Group)                Apr 12 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Attention Members:  We are seeking "guest speakers to conduct workshops" for reunion attendees on topics of interest.

If anyone possesses knowledge of specific subject areas that he/she would like to share with the rest of us, please contact George Plunkett.

Name:  Charles Penley  (377th Security Police Squadron)                 Apr 11, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  To all the TSNA Members, if you know that you are going to the TSNA Reunion and you are going by yourself, let Charles Penley know and he will try and locate other members who are going single and you can share room and expense for that room.

Your friend,

Charles Penley

Name:  Ruben Trevino,                       Apr 12 2008
Email:  

Comments:

My father, SSgt Juan A. Trevino, USAF, was stationed at Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Sep 1970 – Sep 1771.

He was part of the Logistics Squadron not sure about anything else, as he rarely spoke about his tour of duty.  He retired in Oct 1972 after 20 years of service to our country.

Unfortunately, he passed away in 1997 due to several medical complications including Agent Orange exposure.

Today my mother, after going thru several of his boxes, presented me with a pamphlet entitled MISSION VIETNAM, with passages on the 7th Air Force and TSN AB.

I am going to order some memorabilia from your PX and place them into his shadow box.

I miss my father.

Thank you and your association for your ongoing tribute to our Vietnam Vets.   We will never forget them and their contribution to our United States.

Ruben Trevino
USAF, Ret
30 years of service

Name:  George Plunkett,  (1961st Communications Group)                Apr 10 2008
Email:  
Comments:  The VFW has opened a new web page at URL:   http://www.honoravet.org/  Please stop by and take a look.

Name:  Dick Boyer,  (7th Air Force Intelligence Division)                Apr 07 2008
Email:  
Comments:  It has been a while since I got a chance to read through the book and see the revetments issue.  Having the reunion in St. Louis is great.  It is only 15 miles from me and Scott AFB.  I can take the Metro over the river every evening and during the day on the weekends and can sort of help out if someone needs to know something about St. Louis and maybe enjoy those darn Cardinals play my beloved Phillies.  I am originally from just north of Philly.

Anyway, two things got my attention.  First the Military Veterans and Civilians vs. Veteran Friends.  Great piece, who wrote that?  It was moving and funny too and sounded so familiar to me being a retired Air Force type.  Second, the article on the Airborne Command and Control Center is very familiar to me.  I worked 7AF TACC, call sign Blue Chip and was in contact with Moon Beam, Alley Cat, Cricket and Hillsboro the entire time in Vietnam depending on which shift I was on.

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The piece entitled "Civilian Friends vs Veteran Friends," was sent to me in an email.  The original author is unknown.

Name:  George Plunkett,  (1961st Communications Group)                Apr 07 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Beginning Sunday, April 27, PBS will air a reality-TV documentary entitled "CARRIER", filmed while the production company was embarked during the entire USS NIMITZ's 2005 deployment.

The program will air over five nights from Sunday, April 27, to Thursday, May 1, 2008, 9:00-11:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Ten hours of film will be aired, selected from almost 2,000 hours that were shot over the course of a 6-month deployment to CENTCOM.

Name:  Charles Penley  (377th Security Police Squadron)                 Apr 07, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  To all the TSNA Members, I just now made my reservations for the TSNA 2008 Reunion, St Louis, Mo.

This will be my third reunion and it really does feel like family.

Your friend,

Charles Penley

Name:  Larry Fry  (Detachment 8, 2nd ADVON)                   Apr 07, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  To all our TSNA members who have email – all 300 of you:  The April 2008 issue of REVETMENTS has just been “posted” to it’s home on the TSNA website.

 http://members.cox.net/72452/revetments/mainpage.html

The first page of Revetments gives the information on Reunion 2008!   Make your hotel reservations now!  I just made mine!Sincerely,

Larry E. Fry
VP, TSNA
TDY, Editor Revetments

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)               Apr 03, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Tan Son Nhut Association member, Taylor McKinnon, has donated a number of wonderful CD's to the Association for sale.  All proceed goes to the Association.

1.   Victors 1 CD has 11 original songs and is dedicated to the 377th Security Police Squadron for their heroic efforts in the defense of TSN during TET 1968.

Victors 2 CD - TET 1968 is a continuation of the first CD.

Please go to the TSNA PXBX web page at URL:   http://www.tsna.org/tsnapxbx/index.html

They are selling for $10.00 each.

Click on the blue line that says, "Click here to print out a PX/BX Order Form?

Charles Penley

Name:  Tom Rosinski,  (7th Air Force Plans, Administrative NCOIC)               Apr 03, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Bob,

It was sad reading about the passing of Gen Graham.  I am proud to say that I served under him while assigned to Hq 5th AF Fuchu AS Japan (Jan 69-May 73).   He presented me with my Bronze Star which I received while assigned to Hq 7AF, TSN.

I was assigned to Hq 5AF on a COT from Vietnam and Gen Graham gave me a ride back to the states aboard his aircraft so that I could pick up my family for our assignment to Fuchu AS.

Tom Rosinski

Name:  Bob Laymon,  (377th CAMS, Scatback T-39, Crew Chief)               Apr 02, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  It is with deep regret that we learn of the passing of Lt Gen (Ret.) Gordon M. Graham, former vice commander of 7th Air Force at Tan Son Nhut AB, RVN from August 1966 -August 1967.   Gen Graham flew combat in the F-4 & RF-4C while assigned in-theater.  He also flew Scatback T-39s during his visits to various bases throughout Southeast Asia.

During World War II in Europe, Graham flew 73 combat missions in P-51 Mustang fighter aircraft and became a 'triple ace' with 16 1/2 enemy airplanes to his credit.   In addition, he had one probable and 10 damaged during WWII.

A memorial service for Gen Graham is scheduled for April 4 at 11 a.m. at Campbell Memorial Presbyterian Church, 3712 Weems Road, in Weems, VA.  Burial will be July 8 at 1 p.m. at Arlington National Cemetery.

Please read Gen Graham's BIO at URL:    http://www.af.mil/bios/bio.asp?bioID=5598

Bob Laymon

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Clark, David, New Hampshire, 460th Field Maintenance Squadron, Sheet Metal Shop (Renewal)
2.  Driesbach, Rick, 12th Reconnaissance Intelligence Technical Squadron (Renewal and a donation)
3.  Fish, Jerald E., Maine, 460th Field Maintenance Squadron (Renewal and a donation)

Name:  Janice Jones,                       Apr 01, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Happy April Fool's Day!

Have a good one!

Janice Jones

P.S.  TSNA Rocks!

Name:  Jim Dugan,  (178th Replacement Company, 90th Replacement Battalion, Camp Alpha)          Apr 01, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Seeing the TSNA ball cap of Dave Koopman in this month's "Photo of the Month," inspired me with an idea to ask members to submit pictures of their caps for occasional inclusion.

What better way to show pride in former unit than to display it on a cap.

I'm sure the individual caps will be as diverse as our members and their units.

Jim Dugan
Life Member

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Jim, showing our individual hats is a good idea.  I would like to dispaly your hat and any others as the Photograph of the Month, June 2008.

TSNA Members please send a scan of your hat, to Charles Penley.

Name:  Dave Koopman,  (460th Field Maintenance Squadron)                Apr 01 2008
Email:  
Comments:  First of all, I'd like to thank Charles Penley for his fine efforts on behalf of the Tan Son Nhut Association.  He not only posted the pictures I asked him to post, but he also gave me a phone call just to chat.  We haven't spoken to each other in awhile and it was nice to hear his voice again.  I promise to call you for the next chat Charles.

Thanks for posting my pictures.  I've said in the past that we should proudly display our medals on special occasions.

The pictures show me on our St. Paul Minnesota State Capitol Building grounds for a WWII dedication honoring our WWII vets.  There are monuments to both the living and the dead veterans of our many conflicts on these grounds.

In the picture of me I'm standing by one monument honoring those who came back from Vietnam alive.  The other picture is a monument to those who died there.  You may view these pictures in April on the TSNA Monthly Photo page at URL:   http://www.tsna.org/photo/index.html

David E. Koopman
TSNA Life Member

Name:  Jim Dugan,  (178th Replacement Company, 90th Replacement Battalion, Camp Alpha)          Mar 30, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  The videos on "You Tube," that Richard Carvell found are fantastic!  Everyone should take the time to watch all of them, including the one on The Fall of Saigon, 1975.   I'll never forget the sight of those helicopters being pushed over the side of that aircraft carrier into the South China Sea.  I have seen it many times since 1975, and it still brings a tear to my eye.

It's symbolic in a way, of how the veterans of that war were treated as so much unwanted trash upon their return home.

Jim Dugan
Life Member

Name:  Richard Carvell,  (12th RITS Photo Lab OIC)               Mar 29, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Several videos about Tan Son Nhut and Vietnam are on You Tube.

Many are done by “Frank” (You Tube screen name borntowander).  Frank makes excellent use of current Google Earth imagery, then superimposes a circa 1970’s picture on that Google Earth image.

For example, you see where Davis Station used to be on the Google imagery, then Frank superimposes a picture of the compound so you see what it looked like in 1970.

Interesting use of the old and the new to tell a story.  He also has current video.  It’s at this link:    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Es0eBxE0Dmw

Frank has posted 73 videos about Vietnam on You Tube, many in a series he calls Déjà vu Vietnam.

See a clickable list at:   http://www.youtube.com/profile_videos?user=borntowander&p=r

Richard Carvell
TSN June 1970-1971

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)               Mar 28, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  It has been awhile since I have done some google searches on Tan Son Nhut.

Today, I discovered that another of our TSNA Members, Tom Hildreth has a story and some photographs at the following URL's:

1.  Tom Hildreth   http://www.vermontel.net/~tomh/TechControl.html

Please go there a read the story and view their photographs.

Charles Penley

Name:  Jim Dugan,  (178th Replacement Company, 90th Replacement Battalion, Camp Alpha)          Mar 28, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I am indebted to Bob Laymon for passing along the information on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial site.  I have discovered 19 names on The Wall from the 90th Replacement Battalion.

Thank you Bob.  You have provided a great service to us all.

Jim Dugan
Life Member

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Fairbank, Ronald D., New York, 33rd CAMRON, 2nd Air Division (Renewal)
2.  McCrum, George, Nevada, 377th Civil Engineering Squadron (5 Year Renewal)
3.  Mosher, Craig H., Massachusetts, 377th Supply Company (New Member)
4.  Stribling, Bill, Georgia, 120th Assault Helicopter Co., Razorbacks Gunships(Renewal)

Name:  Dave Koopman,  (460th Field Maintenance Squadron)                Mar 28 2008
Email:  
Comments:

Pawlenty signs state Vietnam Veterans Day into law.
by Tim Pugmire, Minnesota Public Radio
March 27, 2008

St. Paul, Minn. — Minnesota will officially recognize Vietnam veterans for the first time on Saturday.

Governor Tim Pawlenty signed a bill into law today establishing every March 29th as Vietnam Veterans Day.  The date was chosen, because the last U.S. ground troops left the Asian country on March 29, 1973.

Surrounded by veterans and legislators during a Capitol ceremony, Pawlenty said the day is an important step in thanking Vietnam era veterans and showing them the respect they deserve.

"The fact that our country did not properly welcome them home at the time is shameful," Pawlenty told those gathered.

"And our country has made good steps to try to make up for that, but more needs to be done.  These are men and women who have served our country with great valor.  And they way they were treated at the conclusion of the Vietnam war was shameful and it should never be repeated again."

Pawlenty said some small, local events are planned throughout Minnesota on Saturday.  He said the state will be involved in organizing bigger Vietnam Veterans Day events in future years.

Minnesota has joined five other states -- Tennessee, New York, Mississippi, Georgia and New Mexico -- in declaring March 29 as Vietnam Veterans Day.  Twenty-six other states are in the process of doing the same.

David E. Koopman
TSNA Life Member

Name:  Bob Laymon,  (377th CAMS, Scatback T-39, Crew Chief)               Mar 27, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  The following is redacted from the Air Force Times:

Vietnam Veterans Memorial opens online

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, one of the most visited sites in the nation's capital since its opening in 1982, has gone virtual.

The memorial is now posted on the Internet with a searchable database of National Archives files that provides more than just the names of the 58,000 veterans whose names are etched in black marble on "the Wall," located near the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall.

The "virtual wall," with features that include allowing visitors to post photographs and comments, was produced by a for-profit company, Footnote.com, under an agreement with the National Archives, which keeps the military's historical records and photographs and makes them available to researchers and other visitors at an archives facility in College Park, Md.

Justin Schroepfer, Footnote.com's marketing director, said access to the virtual Vietnam Veterans Memorial  http://go.footnote.com/thewall and to linked historical records and photographs is free, but people will have to pay to use some features on the Web site.

Allen Weinstein, Archivist of the United States, said the Vietnam Memorial is one of the most visited sites not only in Washington but in the nation, and interest increases each year among people seeking to look at historical files of the war held by the National Archives.  Putting the Vietnam memorial on the Internet, and providing ways to search by name, age, hometown, state, service, unit and other factors, makes the records available to even more people, Weinstein said.

James Hastings, the Archives' director of access programs, said he is not troubled about having a for-profit company use government-owned records because the information is available for free to archives offices, which are scattered throughout the U.S.

Putting the information online "expands access by incalculable magnitude," he said.  For example, the Web site will soon include Vietnam War photographs in the Archives' possession that include captions identifying who is in the photo, making it easier to locate a photo of a particular person that might have been almost impossible for a family to find on its own.

Schroepfer said the interactive feature allowing photographs and comments to be posted by visitors will be a big draw to the Web site.  Comments will not be reviewed before they are posted, he said, but the Web site requires registration to post a comment, and other visitors can "flag" comments they think are inappropriate.

In that sense, he said, the site "polices itself."

Registering also gives visitors the opportunity to exchange comments, such as allowing families to contact someone who served with one of the service members whose name is on the Wall.

Bob Laymon

Name:  Bobby Nutt,  (Camp Alpha)                Mar 27 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I was at Camp Alpha when Tan Son Nhut was attacked April 13, 1966, at 0030 hrs.  Just had got there that afternoon, to get manifested for a flight home.  Ran into an old basic training buddy or I would have been closer to where the mortars were hitting.

Do you have more details of that night?

I was a draftee, photograph interperter, assigned to the 1st Military Intelligence, Fort Bragg N.C.

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Bobby, I do have the fourty (40) page, "Attack On Tan Son Nhut, April 13, 1966, After Action Report."  I sell it from my 377th Security Police web page.  It costs $10.00 (Shipping and handling comes out of that money.)

Name:  Tan Son Nhut Association,                  Mar 25 2008
Email:  
Comments:

The Military Veteran

When a good Veteran leaves the "job" and retires to a better life, many are jealous, some are pleased and others, who may have already retired, wonder if he knows what he is leaving behind, because we already know.

We know, for example, that after a lifetime of camaraderie that few experience, it will remain as a longing for those past times.  We know in the Military life there is a fellowship which lasts long after the uniforms are hung up in the back of the closet.  We know even if he throws them away, they will be on him with every step and breath that remains in his life.  We also know how the very bearing of the man speaks of what he was and in his heart still is.

These are the burdens of the job.  You will still look at people suspiciously, still see what others do not see or choose to ignore and always will look at the rest of the Military world with a respect for what they do; only grown in a lifetime of knowing.

Never think for one moment you are escaping from that life.  You are only escaping the "job" and merely being allowed to leave "active" duty.

So what I wish for you is that whenever you ease into retirement, in your heart you never forget for one moment that "Blessed are the Peacemakers for they shall be called children of God," and you are still a member of the greatest fraternity the world has ever known.

Civilian Friends vs Veteran Friends

CIVILIAN FRIENDS:  Get upset if you're too busy to talk to them for a week.
VETERAN FRIENDS:  Are glad to see you after years, and will happily carry on the same conversation you were having the last time you met.

CIVILIAN FRIENDS:  Have never seen you cry.
VETERAN FRIENDS:  Have cried with you.

CIVILIAN FRIENDS:  Borrow your stuff for a few days then give it back.
VETERAN FRIENDS:  Keep your stuff so long they forget it's yours.

CIVILIAN FRIENDS:  Know a few things about you.
VETERAN FRIENDS:  Could write a book with direct quotes from you.

CIVILIAN FRIENDS:  Will leave you behind if that's what the crowd is doing.
VETERAN FRIENDS:  Will kick the crowds' rear end that left you behind.

CIVILIAN FRIENDS:  Are for a while.
VETERAN FRIENDS:  Are for life.

CIVILIAN FRIENDS:  Have shared a few experiences...
VETERAN FRIENDS:  Have shared a lifetime of experiences no citizen could ever dream of...

CIVILIAN FRIENDS:  Will take your drink away when they think you've had enough.
VETERAN FRIENDS:  Will look at you stumbling all over the place and say, "You better drink the rest of that before you spill it!!"  Then carry you home safely and put you to bed...

CIVILIAN FRIENDS:  Will talk crap to the person who talks crap about you.
VETERAN FRIENDS:  Will knock some sense into THEM ... for using your name in vain.

A veteran - whether active duty, retired, or national guard or reserve - is someone who, at one point in their life, wrote a blank check made payable to "The United States of America," for an amount of "up to and including my life."

From one Veteran to another, it's an honor to be in your Company.

Thank you Veteran!

Name:  Dave Koopman,  (460th Field Maintenance Squadron)                Mar 25 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Bill designating Vietnam Veterans Day heads to Pawlenty.

Associated Press

Article Last Updated:  03/25/2008 01:41:23 PM CDT

(Minnesota Historical Society) Vietnam War veterans are on the verge of getting their own day every March.

The Vietnam Veterans Day bill heads to Gov. Tim Pawlenty for a signature after passing the Minnesota Senate unanimously.  There was no debate.

Sen. Dan Skogen, D-Hewitt, simply urged his colleagues to honor Vietnam veterans "forevermore" on March 29th. The date was chosen because the last U.S. ground troops left the Asian country on March 29, 1973.

The Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. lists 1,072 Minnesotans killed in action in Vietnam.

The House unanimously backed the Vietnam Veterans Day legislation last week.

If Pawlenty signs the bill, Minnesota would observe the first Vietnam Veterans Day on Saturday March 29th, 2008.

David E. Koopman
TSNA Life Member

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)               Mar 25, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Did any of the Tan Son Nhut Association Members bring home a TSN phone book, organizational chart and etc., that would show phone numbers and etc.

Example:  58th Signal Bn, phone:  ???-????

Charles Penley

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)               Mar 24, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Need some important help.  Does anyone know the location of the 58th Transportation Bn., Tan Son Nhut, during the 1966 time frame.

I am trying to establish a building number.

Charles Penley

Name:  Jim Dugan,  (90th Replacement Battalion, Camp Alpha)               Mar 24, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I found this clip on You Tube.  I would imagine it was filmed after the Fall of Saigon in 1975.

Please go to URL:    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7d0zUlrAElY&feature=related

It is a 3 minutes and 23 second video of Davis Station, 509th Radio Research Group, after the Fall of Saigon.

Jim Dugan
Life Member

Name:  Jon Emery,  (7th AF Directorate of Operational Intelligence)             Mar 24, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I was looking for my supervisor, Sgt. Gil Estrada and discovered your website - Many Thanks, for putting this together.

I'm happy to see that on your list of Honored Dead is Alan Wayne Willard.  Alan was killed in my hut 40 years ago during a rocket attack.  He was getting ready to go home the next day.  The pain of that day has haunted me for over 40 years and being a musician all my life, I wrote a song about it.

Perhaps I'll get a chance to sing it for you sometime.

I just hope and pray that our kids live to see a world without war.

Best Regards,

Jon Emery

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Jon, that is one of the advantages of being a member of the Tan Son Nhut Association.  You searched the internet and found your old boss and friend.

Name:  Tony Tidwell,  (460th Field Maintenance Shop (AGE Shop)              Mar 23, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I noticed that a few members have been able to find "lost buddies" through the Association.  I think I will try the same route.  I realize it's a shot in the dark.  Well, sometimes one gets lucky even in the dark.

The individual I have been trying to locate for nearly 35 years is named Bill Greener (I think his name is William Greener, Jr) and he and I were assigned to the AGE shop of the 460th Field Maintenance Squadron, which later became the 377th CAMS.

To the best of my knowledge he lives near Detroit.

I would be grateful to anyone who can help me locate my "lost buddy".

Thanks!

Regards,

Tony Tidwell

Name:  Donald Sheppard,  (7th Air Force)                  Mar 22, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Hi my name is Donald Sheppard.  I was stationed at Tan Son Nhut from 1966 - 1967, 7th AF.

I was referred to the TSNA by my Brother-in-law who was there also.

Name:  Janice Jones,                       Mar 20, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Sunday, March 30, 2008 is Easter.  Have a good one.

Janice Jones

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Bowen, John G., Florida, 834th Air Division, Headquarters Unit (New Member)

Name:  Brian Kerr,                   Mar  19, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I’m looking for some information on a RF-4C that was part of the 12th TRS within the 460th TRW.

The aircraft in question was named “Carolina Kangaroo” and flown by Sqn Ldr Allan Reed and Major Melton.

I need to known the aircraft number and code letters and also the paint scheme on the aircraft or was it standard SEA camouflage.

I would greatly appreciate any help from your association in finding the information on this aircraft.

Regards,

Brian Kerr

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The above email is from one of our Australian friends.  Let's get together and see if we can report some information back to him.

Name:  Larry Fry  (Detachment 8, 2nd ADVON)                  Mar  19, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  To all the Tan Son Nhut Association Members, please go to URL:

 http://www.abtriplec.com/index.php

Check out the "photos" area, then "Personal photos", then "Ken Witkin" (TSNA Member).  He has two very interesting pictures - to me at least, of the airborne command and control center in flight.

I never knew there was such a thing in Vietnam until I got an email from him.

Sincerely,

Larry E. Fry
VP, TSNA

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Beaty, Roger K., Georgia, 377th Security Police Squadron (New Member)
2.  Bell, Thomas H., Ohio, 377th Security Police Squadron (New Member)

Name:  Gilbert Estrada,  (7th AF Directorate of Operational Intelligence)             Mar 18, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I've been reading items in the view book tonight, and I noticed several articles reference:  wearing our medals and ribbons.  Yes, wear them and wear them proudly.

After the 9/11 bombings and all the media hoopla during the aftermath, I noticed that very little was mentioned about the casualties in the Pentagon.  I am an Air Force Retiree, and as a means of honoring those troops, since then I wear a pin on each of my shirt collars.  On my right collar is a pin of crossed flags, the US Flag/Air Force Flag.  On the left collar I wear a pin which shows the new Air Force wings logo with Retired under it.

I have had many people come up to me about it, to say thanks for your service, and some to ask:  "What do they represent?"  I then let them know that I wear them in honor of those killed and wounded in the Pentagon on that day.

I have added to my statement that I also wear them in honor of today's military personnel.

Gilbert Estrada
USAF Retired

Name:  Gilbert Estrada,  (7th AF Directorate of Operational Intelligence)             Mar 18, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Reference the posting that Dave Koopman wrote about obtaining earned medals.  I followed and received quick service, however there was no mention nor check mark for the Vietnamese Gallantry w/Palm award.  Could that have been an administrative glitch.  I am trying to put together my military career for some younger family members.  Some want it written with the medals/ribbons; some want it verbally on tape or CD.

BTW, some time ago I mentioned and encouraged members to take part in the Veterans History Project.  I did, and it is a sure way of getting our history told, as the interview is done on Video and is sent to the Library of Congress Archives.  Also, a copy of the interview is given to you (VHS) and a clip is sent to your local TV station.  And it is not edited for 'political correctness'.  I even had a couple of hells and damns slip out when answering a question or giving a requested opinion, and they are all there.

Gil' Estrada
Retired Air Force

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Gil, for the Photograph of the Month, April 2008, there will be several Unit Awards and Decorations graphics posted.  One of the items that will be mentioned, is that the Vietnamese Gallantry Cross with Palm, was awarded to every Vietnam Veteran, who spent 24 hours in Vietnam.  It applies to all the various services.

Name:  Jim Dugan,  (90th Replacement Battalion, Camp Alpha)               Mar 17, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I noticed several posts trying to locate unit buddies from Vietnam.  Although it's not an immediate solution, I found Military.com very helpful.  If a particular unit page is not found, you can start one.  I did it for members who served at Camp Alpha, and it has paid off.  I have been reunited with two members I served there with 1969 to 1970 and have made friendships with others who served there from other time frames.  I know many of you may already be familiar with Military.com, but there are many who are not.  It doesn't cost a thing to register with the site, and the benefits can be great.  I have saved the pages I created and check them twice a day.

The unit pages can be found under "Community" on the upper right of the page.  Just click it and choose the branch of service.  I hope this information proves advantageous to you.

Jim Dugan
Life Member

Name:  Tony Plonski,  (460th AEMS, Flight Control Technician)               Mar 17, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  TSNA, good morning,

It was a thrill to get in touch with Gary and Glenn again.  Actually, I used the site you had used in finding Gary to locate Glenn.   Like you said, you were only a step away.

I got into work this morning and had a message on my phone from Joe Sutch.  I spoke to his wife (I think it was his wife) this morning as he was not at home.  It is definitely the same Joe.  He retired from the Air Force and stayed in Abilene Texas.  I am waiting to hear from him later in the day.

This will definitely be a short note in the newsletter.  I want to give it a couple of weeks to see where it all leads.  I am hoping this will springboard into few more memberships for the TSNA and a mini-reunion in July.

Thanks again for your help.  I will keep you informed.

Your friend,

Tony

P.S. any way of searching through "home of records" or dog tag numbers?

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Three out of the five men that Tony was searching for has been located.  Do any of the TSNA Members know if there is a way to locate home of records or using the old serial numbers to locate a former veteran.

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)               Mar 15, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  TSNA Member, Tony Plonski, was inquiring of the Tan Son Nhut Association for some assistance in locating some of his Vietnam friends.

He supplied the names of:

1.  Sgt Joseph Sutch, from Buffalo, NY
2.  Robert Olson
3.  Harold Roach, from Huntington, WV
4.  Gary Brindamour
5.  Glen D. Figart, AF serial number was given.

TSNA was lucky and located Gary Brindamour living in Yakima, WA.  Gary knew the location of Glen Figart.

After fourty years the three of them were able to make contact with each other and to share some long ago memories.

To me that is one of the reasons for the existance of the TSNA.  To be able to help another veteran.

Charles Penley

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)               Mar 13, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Although I do not subscribe to magazines, my sister Janice does.  Every two weeks I take a load of magazines to the VA Hospital.

I hand deliver them to the DOM.

That is what they call the building that the men live at.

That way, the men who live at the DOM gets them first.

They also recommend to cut off you address label on the magazines.

Charles Penley

Name:  Tom Rosinski,  (7th Air Force Plans, Administrative NCOIC)               Mar 13, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Great idea about donating old magazines to veterans.  I will start saving mine and I know that in Columbia, SC, the VA Hospital will be glad to accept them and see to it that they are made available to our veterans and hope that other members of the TSNA will do the same.

Tom Rosinski

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Eckhoff, James, Illinois, 8th Aerial Port Squadron (Renewal)
2.  Weiland, Donald M., Washington, 377th Security Police Squadron (Five year renewal, he has been a member since 1998)

Name:  Jim Gropper,  (97th Artillery Group, Alpha Battery (June 1965 - Jul 1966)          Mar 13 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I do not remember if i wrote before and if you would like this or not but a lot of Vietnam Veterans and other veterans are home bound in nursing homes and hospitals.   If any of you belong to a veterans organization such as the VFW, try saving up your magazines and donate them to the above mentioned veterans, they really enjoy reading them.  I dont know how many might be TSNA members.  Lets suport our troops and it does not matter their situations, after all we are all brothers then and now.

Thank you,

Jim Gropper

Name:  Bob Laymon,  (377th CAMS, Scatback T-39, Crew Chief)               Mar 11, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Hey, great idea about a Tan Son Nhut Association web posting.  There may be fellow members/Vets in the crowd, that otherwise, I wouldn't recognize.  Hope to see TSNA member Skip Tannery, who lives in Lubbock.

You can also mention the briefing is being recorded for viewing as a streaming video on the TTU Vietnam Center web site:  http://www.vietnam.ttu.edu/vietnamcenter/events/2008_symposium/index.htm

The briefing video URL will be posted in a month or two.

Then Bernie DeNisio & Merle Pribbenow briefings add new information to the historical record for Tet '68 and correct some wives-tails, about the VC/PAVN attack on TSN and subsequent US/RVN combined defense.

Thanks a million for making this a Killer PowerPoint briefing.  I believe it will be historically significant to many ... 377th Security Police Squadron, 377th Air Base Group, HQ 7th AF, Tan Son Nhut Veterans and USAF/HO and Academic historians alike.

Bob Laymon

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police squadron)                Mar 11, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  The Vietnam Center at Texas Tech University is holding its sixth triennial symposium Thursday, March 13 to Saturday March 15, at the Holiday Inn Park Plaza hotel in Lubbock.   There will be a wide variety of panels and speakers from different viewpoints, mostly about the Vietnam war.

TSNA Member, Bob Laymon, will speak at a Thursday afternoon panel, 3:30 pm, about the Battle For Tan Son Nhut.  Bob would be happy to meet anyone who might make it there.

Here is the conference agenda:

 http://www.vietnam.ttu.edu/vietnamcenter/events/2008_symposium/2008agenda.pdf

Charles Penley

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Butz, Tim, Nebraska, 12th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron (Renewal)
2.  Layman, Lester C., Jr., Texas, 360th Tactical Reconnaisance Squadron (Renewal)

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Alm, Eric W., Indiana, HHC, 69th Signal BN (Renewal)
2.  Bontya, George A., South Carolina, 377th Civil Engineer Squdron (Renewal)
3.  Geisler, Edmond H., California, 460th Field Maintenance Squadron (Renewal and a donation)
4.  Kinnaird, George C., Ohio (Renewal for 5 years)
5.  Kraemer, John R., Minnesota, 460th Avionics Maintenance Squadron (Renewal)
6.  Mitchell, Michael R., California, 12th Reconnaissance Intelligence Technical Squadron (Renewal)

Name:  Jim Dugan,  (90th Replacement Battalion, Camp Alpha)                Mar 09, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I found this Encarta article on what 1973 in Vietnam was like.

 http://encarta.msn.com/sidebar_1741581877/1973_Vietnam.html  (Web Master's note:  If you are not registsered with Encarta, you will not be able to read the article.)

It mentions that the North Vietnamese communist delegation to South Vietnam was confined "to meager quarters at Tan Son Nhut."

In actuality, from what I've heard, they stayed at Camp Alpha which must have seemed like The Hilton Hotel to them.  The new U.S. construction at Camp Alpha had been completed by then.  We, who served there from 1965 up to late 1969, only remember the compound as either a tent city, or hastely constructed wood and tin hootches.  We moved into the new quarters while I was still there in late 1969 and early 1970.  The construction continued through the remainder of 1970 and into 1972.

By 1973, Camp Alpha resembled a stateside Army base.  While it wasn't home, it was not too bad either.  We left Vietnam with usable housing for troops.  The Vietnamese looted the compound after we departed, so there is no telling how much was left.

I would like to find someone who can talk about the interaction between the American troops still there at Camp Alpha in 1973, and the North Vietnamese delegation.  I'm pretty sure it was very limited, it not non-existent.

Jim

Name:  Danny R. Wallace,  (2nd Aerial Port Group)                Mar 09, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I was stationed there from Dec 1969 - Dec 1970.

Danny R. Wallace
MSgt, USAF Ret

Name:  John Schlobohm,  (110th Aviation Company Depot)                Mar 08, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I was stationed at the 110th Aviation Company Depot, AMMC 34th group U.S. Army.  I am looking for someone who was stationed there after 1972.  I was stationed there from August 1969 to September 1970.  I had always wondered about the last days of that unit and what happened when they closed it down.  If anyone was there at the end, I would like to hear from them.

John Schlobohm, E 5
110th Aviation Company Depot
Saigon Vietnam

Name:  Pete Pettinger,  (377th Personnel)                Mar 07, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I was assigned to Tan Son Nhut, with the 377th Personnel Group, for a short tour back in February 1 - May 1, 1971.)  Unfortunately, they shipped me over to Phan Rang Air Base, for the remainder of my tour.

I remember the good times I had there but have only heard from ONEperson in all the years since I've left there.

Is there any members of the 377th Personnel Group, in this organization?  I was just a lowly SGT and served my final year in Nam before joining the civilian life.

Would be great to join the group, should others from the Personnel bunch belong.

Pete Pettinger
USAF, SGT

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)                Mar 04, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  TSNA Member, Jim Dugan and I were exchanging emails.  He mentioned to me two names of Tan Son Nhut KIA, that was not on the TSNA Memorial web page.

I checked his information out and it was correct.  In addition to those two names were five more names, for a total of seven names.

I already had two of the seven names on our Memorial web page.

I just now added the other five names:

1. SP5 Benner, Fred Alfred
2. Sgt Soule, Ronald Glen
3. SP4 Wolfe, Jimmy Ray
4. PFC Borieo, Richard David
5. PVT Border, William Edward

All the men died on 13 April 1966, during the Attack On Tan Son Nhut.  There will be a short article in the April 2008 Revetments issue.

Charles Penley

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  HARPER, Henry C., Florida, 377th Transportation, 8th Aerial Port Squadron (New Member)
2.  IVES, Michael M., Nevada, 460th Field Maintenance Sq., 460th TAC Recon Wing (New Member)
3.  JARBOE, Robert D., Maryland, 6620th USAF Dispensary, 377th USAF Dispensary (Renewal and a donation)
4.  Nieves, Louis A., New York, 377th Supply Squadron (Clothing Issue (Renewal)

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)                Mar 02, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  We are currently working on the Tan Son Nhut Association and Scatback Personnel 2008 Reunion, Registration form.  We will post it in the next few days and I will let you all know about it.

Charles Penley

Name:  Wayne Burke,                  Mar 02, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  My name is Wayne Burke, I'm trying to locate information about a helicopter crash.

It happened in November 1968.  It came down around the mess hall.  The men didn't get out of it.  I'm trying to get pictures of it or at least the name of the helicopter squadron, stationed on the base.

I hope you can help me.

Thank you,

Wayne Burke.

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The US Army, 120th Attack Helicopter Company was just one of the helicopter units assigned to Tan Son Nhut.  The helicopter could be assigned to other bases or US Army units and flew into Tan Son Nhut.

Perhaps someone else can answer you better.

Name:  David Ramey,  (377th Security Police Squadron)                Mar 01, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I just glanced over the March 2008 issue of "Revetments," and noticed an article by Thomas Bell.

I was stationed with a Tom Bell (local boy Middletown Ohio) and wondering if he's one and the same.

If memory serves me correctly, Tom was a clerk of some kind for 377th Security Police Squadron 1968 - 1969.  His article in 'Revetments' states member of Tan Son Nhut Association but, I couldn't find his name, in list of members.

Question:  Any way you could track this lad down and see if he's the same man I met in my misspent youth?

Your friend,

Dave

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Thomas Bell is not a member of the TSNA but I did check my 377th Security Police Squadron web page and Thomas Bell is listed under Central Security Control, 1968 - 1969 time frame.  I will send you a letter back channel and include Bell's email address.

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Byrnes, Dennis M., Pennsylvania, 69th Sig Bn, US Army (Renewal)
2.  McCoy, Peter F., Massachusetts, ASA/3rd RRU (Renewal)
3.  Reese, David B., Mississippi, 1876th Communications Squadron (Renewal)

Name:  Larry Fry  (Detachment 8, 2nd ADVON)  Feb  29, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  To all our TSNA members who have email – all 300 of you:  The March 2008 issue of REVETMENTS has just been “posted” to it’s home on the TSNA website.

 http://members.cox.net/72452/revetments/mainpage.html

Sincerely,

Larry E. Fry
VP, TSNA
TDY, Editor Revetments

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)                Feb 28, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  My friend, Chris Godfrey is a fellow 377th Security Policeman.  He was at Tan Son Nhut during TET 1968, working as GOLF-3, Security Alert Team.

He brought home a very important document of our unit's history.  He had the forethought to bring home the, "TET Offensive Alert Blotter."  It is 58 pages, 771 enteries.  It includes 31 Jan 1968  - 07 Feb 1968.

His copy is an onion skin copy.  He zeroxed it for me and it was hard to read in places.  I have spent the past few days typing it again.  I have made it into a .PDF format.  If anyone would like for me to email it to you, I will.  It is approximately 196kb in size.

Your friend,

Charles Penley

Name:  Jim Wade,                  Feb 27, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Want to let you guys know that I really thank you for putting my pictures on your site for the month of Feb.  I heard from some of the guys about it.  

In the two and a half years I was in Vietnam, being with the 8th APS mobility section, was the most fun I had.The teams were all over the country.  I was at Dak To to the Delta.

I know right after the end of the war, we had team members all over the country and never saw each other for the whole year there we were there.  Should get ahold of Cary Louderback.  He was there at the end and could give you an inside on what happen.

Jim Wade

Name:  Earnest Purdy,                  Feb 22, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Gary Redlinski sent me the below email from Earnest Purdy

I Need information:  Around the 1st of October 1971, I got a 3 month early out, didn't want to wait.   I got a flight on a body detail to Okinawa.  I don't recall pilot's or crew's names or type of plane, (maybe C-141 transport) or if it was Army or Air force.

I was Army SP4 Jan 1969 to Oct 1971, Vietnam Oct 1970 - Oct 1971.

A jeep arrived for me in Phu Lam, drove to Tan Son Nhut Air Base.  The plane was loaded with casualty's, aluminum like boxes called (TARFF case's I think.)  They were stacked down the middle jump seats and along the sides where I sat.  Some of the crew came back and talked for a while.  I carried a 6.5 French Mouser which I captured and was taking home.

I would like to find out if there would be anyway to find flight list, names and if my name would be on flight list.  Also I had to register the 6.5 rifle with the Army, to bring it home.

Is there somewhere that I can get info on these things?  Any help or ideas would be appreciated.

Thank you for any help and WELCOME HOME,

Earnest Purdy

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)                Feb 21, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  

Osan Air Base, Korea.  Home of 7th Air Force Headquarters and the 51st Security Forces Squdron.

Recently they had an official ceremony pertaining to the 40th Anniversay of Tet 1968.

Jan 31, 1968 and Jan 31, 2008 are brothers and sisters in service to their country.

Please go to URL:    http://www.osan.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123084612  to read a wonderful one page story about the ceremony.

One of Tan Son Nhut Association Members, Larry Blades, has a son stationed with the 51st SFS.  His name is Zachary Blades.  During the ceremony, he requested to carry the American Flag, in honor of his father, Larry.

Please go to URL:    http://www.osan.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/080131-F-9165S-003.jpg  to see Zach performing his duties with the flag.  The flag is obscuring Zach's face but that is him and we could not be more proud.

The photograph that is on the wall in the ceremony is Bunker Hill-10, Bien Hoa Air Base.  Bien Hoa, 3rd Security Police Squadron, lost two of their men during TET 1968.

Your friend,

Charles Penley

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Ellis, Norman D., Colorado, 8th Aerial Port Squadron (New Member)
2.  Griffin, John C., Washington, 460th TRW, 12th TRS (RF-4C Weapon System Officer) (Renewal)
3.  McDonnell, Thomas W., Colorado, 33rd USAF Dispensary (Renewal)

Name:  John Liegeois,                    Feb 20, 2008
Email:&nbs0p; 
Comments:  Brought back some memories.

John Liegeois
Det 34, 1st Weather Group
6 Jan 68 - 9 Jan 69.

Name:  Harlan Hatfield,  (460th AEMS, PMEL)                  Feb 18, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  This will be on Cable tonight, It should be interesting.  "Inside the Vietnam War," History Channel, 8:00 p.m. Easter Time/Pacific Time.  There is a five minute trailer of this upcoming show at URL:   http://tinyurl.com/228d4u

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Acai, Stephen, North Carolina, US Army, Tan Son Nhut Mortuary (Renewal and a donation)
2.  Maranville, James I., Iowa, 360th Tactical Electronic Warefare (Renewal)
3.  Odell, Edward C., Texas, 377th Supply Squadron (New Member)
4.  Wayman, Ronald A., Arizona, 460th Field Maintenance Sq. (Hydraulic Shop) (New Member)

Name:  Janice Jones,                        Feb 14, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  On Monday, February 18, the National Geographic Channel will be airing a program entitled "Inside the Vietnam War" from 8pm - 11pm and 11pm - 2am.

Janice Jones

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)                Feb 13, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Larry, I have done the following in search of Stanley Gilbert.

1.  Checked my files in the filing cabinet.  Stanley has not checked in with me.

2.  Checked the VSPA roster.  Stanley has not checked in with them.

3.  Checked google search engine for:

"Stanley Gilbert"Nhut = negative results
"Stanley Gilbert"377th = 49 hits but negative results
"Stanley Gilbert"Vietnam = 68 hits but negative results
"Stanley Gilbert"CoaCoa = 16 hits but negative results
377th Security Police"Gilbert = negative results

I posted your message at URL:

1.  Tan Son Nhut Association, View Message at URL:
http://www.tsna.org/view/index.html

2.  377th SPS View Message at URL:
http://webpages.charter.net/cepenley/2008.html

Your friend,

Charles Penley

Name:  Larry Blades,  (377th Security Police Squadron                 Feb 13 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I need your assistance on something.  I am looking for an old friend of mine.  He was stationed in Rome New York with me, and then we both went to Tan Son Nhut together.  His name is Stanley Gilbert, an African American.  He was pulling Tango-6 Tower, in Alpha Sector, the night of Tet

I know he was from CoaCoa Beach Florida, and I have made numerous phone calls looking for him.  He's listed in alpha sectors roster for TET.  Do you by chance have any email address or any contact information on this man.  I would greatly appreciate any assistance if you can help.

Let me know please, very important to me.

Thanks,

Larry Blades

Name:  Jim Gropper,  (97th Artillery Group, Alpha Battery (June 1965 - Jul 1966)          Feb 13 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Anyone remember the day and year "Charlie" tried to attack the field hospital outside the Main Gate?

I don't remember any more.  I was running the bucket loader at those gravel piles by the hospital when that happend.

I remember 4 or 5 kids standing on top of the gravel piles and me trying to get them down before they got hurt.  I didn't have my M-16.

I thought about playing John Wayne and opening the bucket up and charging "Charlie" but the more I thought, the more stupid that idea seemed.

With my luck, I would get shot by the Air Police first.  Those guys were all wound up with the shooting after that I never went without my M-16.  I knew somthing was going on.  The airforce dump trucks quit comming and then the shooting started, nobody told me.  Soon as the shooting started, I made a straight shoot to the gate and the ARVN Police was not going to let me in.  It took an Airforce Sgt to get me in.

Bless his soul!

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Jim, on April 13, 1966, Tan Son Nhut was attacked for the very first time.  243 rockets and mortars impacted on Tan Son Nhut during a thirteen minute duration, 7 KIA and 111 WIA.  I can not tell you how many rockets impacted off post.

Name:  Dave Koopman,  (460th Field Maintenance Squadron)                Feb 13 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Russ Hays, I remember the night of 17-18 February 1968 very well.

That was my baptism of fire.  I had just arrived back at Tan Son Nhut from a TDY to Cam Rahn Bay a few days before.  My ears having been filled with horror stories of the attack on the 31st of January, I thought that it was going to be the end of my mothers favorite little boy David.

As I remember, 122mm rockets are quite loud and light up the sky.  I'm sure that I curled up in a corner of the bunker near my hootch and tried to pull it down over my ears.

David E. Koopman
TSNA Life Member

Name:  Russ Hays,  (Det 1, 460th Tactical Reconnaisance Wing, Scatback U-3B)             Feb 12, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  George you're right about the 377th Security Police saving our bacon during the initial assualt on Tan Son Nhut during TET 68.

I think all of our stars must have been lined up right that night or we would have been totally overrun.  But also, we were literally "saved by the cavalry" when the 3rd Squad, 4th Cav, 25th Inf Div came to the rescue of everyone on base.

Not to mention the fact that the VC/NVA had plans to confiscate the ARVN heavy weapons and tanks but which fortunitely had had their firing mechanisms removed for the TET holidays.

On a recent cruise my wife and I took, a young officer all decked out in full dress uniform was near me in the "chow hall" line.  I went over to him to thank him for his service.  I metioned I was on TSN 1967 - 1968.  He said the 377th SPS actions during TET 68 to save TSN, are legendary in military lore today!!!!!!!!

Roy Russell Hays
TSNA Life Member

Name:  George Plunkett,  (1961st Communications Group)                Feb 12, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  The misinformation concerning the defense of Tan Son Nhut Air Base during the "Tet Offensive," is unbelieveable.

A recent program on the History Channel said that the defense of TSN was done by a combat ready of ARVN paratroopers who were awaiting transport to Danang.  Not one word was mentioned about the 377th Security Police Squadron.

The general public might not know the truth, but we who were there do.

I have nothing but the greatest admiration for those brave airmen who saved our bacon that day.

George Plunkett
Director of Membership Development
Tan Son Nhut Association
tsna.org

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)                Feb 12, 2008
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Comments:  Russ, I certainly remember those nights that seemed at times like daytime.  With all the rockets going off and all the drop flares from the aircraft and slap-flares be fired. Your friend,

Charles Penley

Name:  Russ Hays,  (Det 1, 460th Tactical Reconnaisance Wing, Scatback U-3B)             Feb 12, 2008
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Comments:  I remember the impact sounds of the 122MM rockets sounding like it was 2 freight trains hitting head on at high speed.  And the ground shaking might have been more likely due to your knees shaking !!!!!!!!

I remember especially Feb 17-18, 1968 when we got over 100 122MM hits .......... anyone else remember that night when night almost turned into day!!!!

Roy Russell Hays
TSNA Life Member

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Love, Garland W., Arizona, 377th USAF Dispensary, Medical Service Superintendent (New Member)

Name:  Daryl Pendergrass,  (377th Security Police Squadron)              Feb 11, 2008
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Comments:  Wanted to post a question, I was on Tan Son Nhut Mar 1972 - Mar 1973, 377th Security Police.

There was a incident that happened approximately the first three months I was there, Mar, Apr, May?, not really certain, just remember I was sorta new in-country.

I remember several of us formed a perimeter at the main gate/Saigon, I remember taking cover behind, I believe a jeep with an M-16, but for some reason my memory evades me after that.  Do any of the other members remember that incident?  Another thing, for some reason I have no recall of what a 122mm rocket impact sounds like, would like some helpful info.

Appreciate it,

Daryl L. Pendergrass
377th SPS

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Daryl to help answer your questions about the "Attacks On Tan Son Nhut," please go to my web page at URL:   http://webpages.charter.net/cepenley/vcnva/index.html

Apparently you were involved in four attacks:

1.  # 431
2.  # 452
3.  # 464
4.  # 475

The impact of a 122mm rocket sound, to me sounds like a loud explosion with the ground shaking violently.

Your friend,

Charles Penley

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)                Feb 11, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Once again, I would like to ask all the members that if you have a story that you would like to share with the rest of us, Larry Fry, Revetments Editor, is looking for them.

The story can be about any of your experiences and to share your history with us all.

Revetments is how we share our history and without your input, it will be letting history down.

Your friend,

Charles Penley

Name:  Wayne S. Cartier,  (460th Field Maintenance Squadron)               Feb 09, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I don't remember which issue of the Revetments or where I saw it on the web site but the pictures looked very familiar.  They showed 2 mommasans.  I believe they were mine as well in 1970.  We called them "Ralph" and "Leo".

In late 1970, about September or October Leo gave birth.  The history of this was that when she told us that she was going to have "baby", I told her she was going to have 2 babies, twin girls.  She wanted to kill me, none of the other mommasans would talk to me never mine get any thing done around my area of the hootch

About Sep or Oct, Leo gave birth to twins, twin girls.  I was in the dog house til I left in December 29, 1970.  The language she used was more profanity laced than I used.

Wayne S. Cartier
Life Member

Name:  Jim Dugan,  (90 Replacement Battalion, Camp Alpha)                Feb 09, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I agree with Dave Koopman that, as Vietnam veterans, we should always wear our awarded medals or ribbons when we have the opportunity.  Not only does it show honor to our brothers who did not come home and solidarity with the veterans of today, but it shows the Vietnam veteran "wannabees" that we hold these awards and decorations in very high regard.

They mean something to us, not in monetary value, but for the history behind them and for the sacrifices that earned them.

They are our military resume'.

I was grateful recently, when Medals of America started offering mini-ribbons which can be worn on a jacket lapel or veterans cap.  Some veterans feel uneasy about flaunting their service awards, but it is not a case of flaunting.   It's a matter of pride in duty and service.

Jim Dugan, TSNA
Life Member

Name:  Dave Koopman,  (460th Field Maintenance Squadron)                Feb 09, 2008
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Comments:  There was a time when I wondered why I should even bother to seek out the medals and awards I was entitled to.  After all, when I was a child, I used to think pictures of WWI and WWII veterans decked out with a chest full of medals in their Sunday go to meeting clothes looked ridicules.

Vietnam changed my mind.  Despite the fact that I thought what I was doing in Vietnam to stop communism was vital to the security of my country.  When I came home from Vietnam, I had to wear civilian clothes to escape notice of the protesters.  Instead of being proud of my service I was made to feel like a fool and a baby killer.

It’s been over forty years now since I served my country.  I still think I did the right thing by enlisting in the Air Force.  I’m proud of my service to my country.

Many of our fellow veterans paid with their lives in defending their country.  They can’t wear a medal to show their pride in service.  It’s up to us to do it for them.  Now, because the Iraq war is almost as unpopular as the Vietnam war, we need to show solidarity with our fellow veterans.  Lest they be forgotten as we were.

Wear your medals on special occasions.  Show you are a proud Vietnam veteran.

David E. Koopman
TSNA Life Member

Name:  Gene Gilbert,                Feb 8, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I got a phone call to and it was the voice of Mike Hensgen.  We were on Echo-1 together, 40 years ago Jan 31, 1968.  Time has gone but our friendship and memories are still here.

Sincerely,

Gene Gilbert

Name:  Dave Koopman,  (460th Field Maintenance Squadron)                Feb 08, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  From what I've been told requests for the issuance or replacement of military service medals, decorations, and awards should be directed to the specific branch of the military in which the veteran served.  However, for Air Force (including Army Air Corps) and Army personnel, the National Personnel Records Center will verify the awards to which a veteran is entitled and forward the request with the verification to the appropriate service department for issuance of the medals.

The eVetRecs at URL:   http://www.archives.gov/veterans/evetrecs/   is preferred for requesting medals and awards.  Provide as much information as possible in the comments field.

Should you prefer to submit your request using an SF180 like I did then go to URL:   http://www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel/standard-form-180.html   and download the form.  Provide as much information as possible and send the form to the appropriate address from the following tables at URL:
 http://www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel/public/awards-and-decorations.html#army

Upon receipt NPRC will access the appropriate records, process your request, and send it on to the AFPC which is responsible for the Air Force Awards and Decorations Program.

David E. Koopman
TSNA Life Member

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Member information:

1.  Louderback, Cary D., Indiana, 8th Aerial Port Squadron (New Member)

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)                Feb 08, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Dave Koopman, approximately three weeks ago, I also wrote to have my DD-214 upgraded.  I had learned that I am authorized three addition awards that I did not know about until late 2007.  Those awards are:

1.  Presidential Unit Citation, 31 Jan 68 - 2 Feb 68, DAFSO GB-743/69

2.  Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat "V", 1 Apr 69 - 31 Mar 71, DAFSO GB 703/71, awarded to:
     a.  Headquarters, 377th Combat Support Group
     b.  21st Aeromedical Staging Flight, 1 Jan 70 - 31 Mar 71
     c.  21st Casualty Staging Flight 1 Apr 69 - 31 Dec 69
     d.  377th Civil Engineering Squadron
     e.  377th Security Police Squadron
     f.  377th Services Squadron
     g.  377th Supply Squadron
     h.  377th Transportation Squadron
     i.  377th USAF Dispensary

3.  Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.  Issued to everyone who spent 24 hours on the ground in Vietnam

What happens when the request is sent in, is that the USAF has a board of Officers and Enlisted personnel who reviews the request.  Checks to see if you were in that unit during the time of the award.  Then they give their written approval and issue a DD-215 to be added with your DD-214.

Your friend,

Charles Penley

Name:  Dave Koopman,  (460th Field Maintenance Squadron)                Feb 08, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Five years ago I learned that the Vietnamese government had awarded the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm to Headquarters U. S. Military Assistance Command (MACV) and all its subordinate units during the period of 8 FEB 1962 to 28 MAR 1973.  All military personnel who were assigned to units serving in-country Vietnam during this period were considered assigned to MACV and its subordinate units, regardless of service or component.  Under DA GO 43 1970 the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry was awarded to all military personnel of all branches who served in-country Vietnam between 1 MAR 1961 and 28 MAR 1973 and to U.S. Army Vietnam and its subordinate units for the period 20 JUL 1965 to 28 MAR 1973.

Both of these DAGO's should be listed in Army Pamphlet 672-3 which contains all units specifically cited and is the guideline used by the National Personnel Records Center for making corrections to DD-214s.  I mailed an SF 180 and a copy of my DD-214 to the National Personnel Records Center and asked them to confirm my eligibility to wear the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm and any additional unit or individual awards and decorations not reflected on my DD Form 214.  I wrote that I had been assigned to the 460th TRW - FMS at Tan Son Nhut Air Base in Saigon Viet Nam from 9/20/67 through 9/15/68.

They processed my request and sent it on to the Air Force Personnel Center which is responsible for the Air Force Awards and Decorations Program.  I received a letter from the AFPC on September 22, 2003 stateing that I was in fact entitled to wear the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm along with the Presidential Unit Citation and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with "V" for Valor.  They amended my DD-214 discharge papers with a DD-215 and they sent me replacement awards free of charge.  You may read about how to apply for these medals on my web page at URL:    http://www.qsl.net/wb0ydi/award.html

David E. Koopman
TSNA Life Member

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)                Feb 07, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Tom, thank you for the kind words.  To me that is what it is all about.  All the Tan Son Nhut Members being able to assist another veteran.

Sometimes, we come to a stand still and ask the other TSNA members, to see if they can help with the answers.

So don't be surprised if we ask any of you for your knowledge and experience.

For the Photo of the Month, April 2008 I am going to put up a series of USAF Orders that will first of all let the men and women who belonged to any of the 377th units, know about some "Awards and Decorations," that they have earned and may not know about them:

1. Presidential Unit Citation
2. Air Force Outstanding Unit Citation
3. Air Force Outstanding Unit Citation with Combat "V"

I did not know about any of them until late 2007.  I just got the copies of those special orders from the USAF, this week.

Your friend,

Charles Penley

Name:  Tom Rosinski,  (7th Air Force Plans, Administrative NCOIC)              Feb 07, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Hi Charles,

Just wanted you to know that it amazes me the research you and your people do and provide answers to questions posed about the Vietnam era.  Just read about the C-141 questions and the research you did and provided answers.

Really am enjoying the Tan Son Nhut website.  So glad I discovered it and became a member.

Keep up the good work!

Tom Rosinski

Name:  S. C. Petersen,                        Feb 07, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Hi ... I was a C-141 Pilot in the early 70's.

I participated in the Baby Lift, and the evacuation of Saigon.  However, I have lost most of my records.

Would you know how I could find out the exact dates of the Babylift, and the airport we flew it out of?

If I could get the date of the C-5 crash that would also help.  I also would like to know the dates that C-141's flew the evacuation.  I was on the first C-141 that started the evacuation, and flew at least 4 missions there.

Thanks for your help.........

SC Petersen

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association located some of the answers for you:

President Ford's Order:In the last days before the fall, time was of the essence.  Volunteers worked under the most strained of conditions, with minimal supplies and food.   With the impending Fall of Saigon only weeks away, President Gerald R. Ford ordered a $2 million initiative to airlift Vietnamese orphans to safety on April 3, 1975.

Saigon Crash:
One of the operation's most well known events occurred on April 4, 1975, when the first scheduled flight, a United States Air Force C-5A Galaxy (68-0218) crashed.   The plane, carrying orphans out of Vietnam, was trying to make an emergency landing at Tan Son Nhut AB Saigon, after the cargo door blew off the plane.  It crashed about two miles from the airport in a rice paddy, breaking into several parts.  The crash killed 144 adults and children (including 76 babies) of the 305 aboard (243 children, 44 escorts, 16 crewmen and 2 flight nurses).

Colonel (Ret) Bud Traynor, CMSgt (Ret) Ray Snedegar and Sgt (Ret) Phil Wise, crew members during “Operation Baby Lift,” led a discussion about their past flying experiences in Vietnam.  Col Traynor and his crew discussed their crash landing on April 3, 1975, while flying a C-5A Galaxy from Tan Son Nhut AB (near Saigon) bound for Clark AB, Philippines.  Please go to URL:    http://www.atalink.org/atq/ATQ_Spring_2003.pdf

C-141:
In April 1975, just weeks before the fall of Saigon, a U.S. Air Force flight nurse straps Vietnamese infants into makeshift bassinets aboard a C-141.  After a stop at Clark Air Base, Philippines, the children -- ranging from 8 months to 12 years of age -- flew on to the United States, where more than 2,000 of them were adopted.  Another 1,300 Vietnamese children were adopted in Canada, Europe and Australia.

When that first flight crashed, the rest of the C-5A fleet was grounded temporarily.  That only added to the pressure on the mission and the workload at Clark Air Base, which more than doubled.   All flight-line and ground crews immediately went to high-alert status.  The usual turnaround ground time for C-130 and C-141 aircraft was eight hours.  On high alert it shrank to three hours.  With C-130s coming in at the rate of three per hour after dark, an air traffic control nightmare developed.  The logistics of the operation was staggering, and the cycle was nonstop.  Often the flight crew members ran close to the maximum flying time or "crew rest" limit.

Because of the differences in aircraft capabilities, the C-141s flew during daylight hours and the C-130s flew at night.  The C-141 required a longer runway for landing and takeoff.  The C-130 was capable of short-field approach and takeoff, meaning it could land by diving to the end of the runway when it was directly overhead, and it could take off with less than 2,000 feet of runway.

Name:  Janice Jones,                        Feb 06, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Happy Valentine's Day to each and every one of you.  May this Valentine's Day be a special one.  Get in touch with someone you haven't seen or spoken to in awhile.

So, here is my official, "Happy Valentine's Day."

Your friend,

Janice Jones
(aka: Cheerleader)

P.S. Have a good one.

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Members information:

1.  Markson, James J., New York, 377th Security Police Squadron (Renewal, donation)
2.  McDonald, Robert J., Tennessee, 360th Tactical Electronic Warefare (Renewal)
3.  Mears, Butch, Georgia, 460th FMS (Jet Engines) (Renewal for five years)
4.  Miller, James L., Kentucky, 377th Security Police Squadron (Renewal)
5.  Ramey, William D. "David," Ohio, 377th Security Police Squadron (Renewal)

Name:  Dan McKegney  (1876th Communications Squadron)  Feb  05, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Here is a nice Vietnam website, especially for this "TET" season:

 http://home.comcast.net/~singingman7/TNOTW.htm

Best wishes to all,

Dan McKegney
TSN 1967 - 1968

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Members information:

1.  Fry, Lois F., Pennsylvania, TSNA Treasurer (Renewal)
2.  Knight, David L., Montana, 460th Avionics Maintenance Squadron (Renewal)
3.  Martin, Johnny A., North Carolina, 377th Security Police Squadron (Renewal)
4.  Passi, Henry R., Maryland, 7th AF Flt Ops, Scatback, T-39 Instructor (Renewal, donation)
5.  Pittelkau, George B., Oregon, Det 1, 460th TRW, Scatback Recip Flt Chief (Renewal, upgraded to "Life Member," donation)
6.  Reed, James L., California, 7th AF Flt Ops, Scatback T-39 Instructor (Renewal, donation)

Name:  Tom Rosinski  (7th Air Force Plans, Administrative NCOIC)  Feb  02, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Hi Charles,

Just read your article in the Feb revetment "Death in a Saigon Alley" and it surely brought back a lot of memories from 40 years ago.  I was not in downtown Saigon but had some AF friends that lived down there and they had horror stories about that Jan 31, 1968 when the VC hit.

I had the option of living down town when I got there in Jan 1968 but choose to live on Tan Son Nhut.  Guess I made a good choice looking back now.

Thanks for letting us all know how brave our military security people performed on that night.

Tom Rosinski

Name:  Larry Fry  (Detachment 8, 2nd ADVON)  Feb  01, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  To all our TSNA members who have email – all 300 of you:  The February 2008 issue of REVETMENTS has just been “posted” to it’s home on the TSNA website.

Happy Valentine’s month, and happy REVETMENT reading.

 http://members.cox.net/72452/revetments/mainpage.html

Sincerely,

Larry E. Fry
VP, TSNA
TDY, Editor Revetments

Name:  Charles Penley,                Feb 01, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  FROM THE MARINE TIMES:  The intent of the North Vietnamese and their Viet Cong allies was to crush the Army of (South) Vietnam, the ARVN, and trigger a popular uprising among the civilian population against the South Vietnamese government.

To achieve these goals, the enemy attacked five major cities, 36 provincial capitals and 64 district capitals.   Additionally, they attacked numerous hamlets and the Tan Son Nhut Air Base near Saigon.

Finally, in an attempt to deliver a decisive psychological blow, the enemy attacked — and penetrated — the grounds of the U.S. Embassy in Saigon.

U.S. troops at Tan Son Nhut withstood the attack but did so in an extraordinary reversal of roles:  Most of the ground troops were Air Force and most of the air cover was provided by the Army.

Charles Penley

Name:  Lionel Jeffers,  (460th RTS (Recon Photo)             Jan 31, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Good Evening All,

I haven't posted in some time but, of course, like everyone else who was there 40 years ago, I had to drop by and be counted.

I too remember being awakened in the middle of the night amid all the chaos and confusion of that night.  I was on the top floor, southwest corner, of barracks #1258 and clearly remember "watching the war" (Cosby quote) from the second floor steps.

Watching all of those old war movies made me stupidly feel like there was no real danger and many of us sat on those steps and cheered on the base defenders.   As silly as it sounds, I was more concerned that it was payday than the possibility of being wounded, taken prisoner or killed.

Most of you probably remember that we were paid once a month on the last day of the month.

Anyway, I can't express enough the gratitude that I have for the "Apes" (Air Police) and all the others who kept the base from being overrun that night and for the rest of the time I spent there.

Thanks Guys!

Lionel Jeffers
Sgt (E4) USAF
460th RTS (Recon Photo)
4 Jul 1967 - 3 Jul 1968
Tan Son Nhut AB

Name:  Johnnie Jernigan,  (460th AEMS (Navigation Shop)              Jan 31, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Charles, the monthly photo page layout is great.

Thanks for all the hard work putting it together and thanks to Larry and Zachary Blades for furnishing the pictures and info about the ceremony being held at Osan.  I am sure it will be a very moving ceremony especially when the Lt. says "Absent Sir" when each name is called.

I, like so many others was at Tan Son Nhut during Tet 68.

It has been 40 years but I can still remember many details of that night.  I was at the barracks in the 1200 area and saw the tracers going "UP" toward the "Freedom Bird" and remembering the feeling I felt hoping the plane would make it.

Like Tim Butz and Tony Plonski indicated in their write-ups, I did not realize till many years later just how close TSN came that night to being overran. I can't imagine how many (me included) would have been wounded or killed.

Again, I have to say THANKS to all those that fought bravely and defended TSN (and me) during that battle.

Most of the airman on TSN that night were un-armed and our lives depended primarily on the 377th Security Police Squadron, for our initial survival.  They were the first responders and the first line of defense that saved TSN that night.

Thanks Guys!!

Johnnie Jernigan
TSN 1967 - 1968
NKP 1974 - 1975

Name:  Jim Dugan,  (90th Replacement Battalion, Camp Alpha)              Jan 31, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  On this 40th Anniversary of the 1968 Tet Offensive, I want to say "Thank you," to all the members who were there on that date, and made Tan Son Nhut a safer place for those like myself who followed.

Because of your brave and valiant actions on that night, Tan Son Nhut has earned a place in the annals of great military battles.  You have more than earned bragging rights to the term "Tet Survivor."

I'm proud to be among you, and I salute you.

Jim Dugan
Life Member

Name:  Charles Penley,                Jan 31, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Today, I want to make special mention one of the Tan Son Nhut Association Members.

Sgt Larry Blades
377th Security Police Squadron
Echo Sector
TSN Air Base
Nov 1967  - Nov 1968

Larry was one of nearly nine (900) security policemen to help defend TSN during TET 1968.

Larry has a son that is currently serving in the US Air Force with the 51st Security Forces Osan, Korea

His name is SSgt Zachary Blades and upon arriving with the 51st SFS, he learned that the squadron has a conference room named, "Bunker 51."   Inside this conference room is memorbilia of the 377th SPS and TET Offensive 1968.

Today, Jan 31, 2008 is the 40th Anniversay of TET 1968 and the 51st SFS is conducting an official ceremony of the event.

SSgt Blades is part of the "Honor Guard," presenting the American Flag.  The ceremony is being conducted inside the base theater and the entire squadron will be there and shown on the big screen, will be the "Attacks On Tan Son Nhut DVD," that Charles Penley provided for them and sells from his 377th SPS web page.  The 51st SFS is going to play "Taps" and the National Anthem while the DVD is playing.  We will do a roll call and call the names of the men who were killed.  When we do, the Lt in the back will respond, "Absent sir," after each name.

The information on the attack will be briefed, and there will be a 21 gun salute.  The chaplain will do a prayer and the honor guard will present the colors.  We have conducted a practice ceremony.  The ceremony is going to be great.

To the 51st Security Forces Squadron, we want to "Thank You" and we give you a, "Hand salute!"

Charles Penley

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)              Jan 31, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Today is the 40th Anniversary of TET 1968.

To Everyone who was on Tan Son Nhut this date and for weeks afterwards, "Welcome Home !!! "

Thank you for a job well done.

Your friend,

Charles Penley

Name:  Tim Butz,  (12th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron)              Jan 31, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I know there are a number of us who were at Tan Son Nhut for the 1968 Tet Offensive and for whom that event marks an important hallmark of our lives.

It changed us and created memories that are still vivid today.  I’ll bet that I wasn’t the only one who woke up in the middle of last night.  One of the more chilling facts of the offensive was unknown to me until I read the After Action report on the TSNA website:    http://www.tsna.org/afteraction/jan311968.html   The NVA brought pilots and aircraft mechanics with them as part of the assault force on TSN.

Clearly they wanted to gain enough control of the flightline to steal some aircraft.

The military and political historians generally agree that Tet was a military disaster for the VC and NVA and political disaster for the US government.

The official line of the Vietnamese communist party is quite different and somewhat intriguing to read.

The 40th anniversary is being widely celebrated in Vietnam, and among the numerous English-language articles published in Nham Dan (the Communist Party’s official paper) is this one spelling out their view of the political considerations that went into the offensive.

For those who are amateur historians or simply interested in Tet, it can be found at  http://www.nhandan.com.vn/english/life/260108/life_t.htm

Timothy Butz

Name:  Mark Reveaux,  (377th Supply Squadron)              Jan 31, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Has the Vietnamese government loosened up on restrictions for visiting the base?  Has anyone been able to get on the base and visit where they worked?  I was at the warehouse.

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Mark, I have a German friend, Andreas Gewinner, who make a trip to Saigon every other year.  He just got back from Saigon.  Even though Tan Son Nhut is an International Airport, TSN is still a military base.  Therefore access onto and off TSN is restricted to a certain route only.

Name:  Tony Plonski,  (460th AEMS (Flight Control Technician)              Jan 31, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Not to dwell on it, but I have spent many moments today reflecting on going in to the shop for the 6:00 pm to 6:00 am shift that night forty years ago, not aware of what a night it would be.

Sitting on the revetments out by the RF-101's and watching the B-707 taking off being followed by a massive amount of tracer trails at the end of the runway, was the first realization that this was not to be a good night.

Of course, we all know what followed.

I thank all of you who defended our base that night for your courage and dedication.

Your presence has allowed for many of us to talk about it today.

Tony Plonski

Name:  Robert Seifert,                Jan 31, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Sir,

I was a member of your organization, my name no longer appears in the member list.  I was stationed at Tan Son Nhut 1968 - 1969 and was on the flight line (360th TEWS) when the base was attacked.

I am writing this letter to let you know, I was interviewed on CBS radio for their series today commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Tet offensive.   My daughter works for CBS and asked if I would like to go on with one of their reporters.  He was a reporter in Vietnamin 1972 and so I felt comfortable doing the piece.  I was surprised that they wanted to hear from a guy in the Air Force since the Marines and Army get all the glory, as they deserve.  The reporter was interested in hearing a different perspective since the only ones who had guns were the air police.

I gave a big heads up to them.  I told the reporter that the 377th Security Police squadron was all that stood in the way of four Viet Cong battalions from penetrating and possibly overrunning the base.  I have the audio clips.

My daughter said the reporter and the stations that carried it were pleased.  I was proud to say that other things went on besides the Embassy, Hue and Khe San.

My daughter said I did the Air Force proud.

If you want to tell the fellows with the 377th that they were finally honored even in this small way, it would be my pleasure.

If you would like that part of the interview I would be glad to share it.

Sincerely,

Robert Seifert
Sgt, USAF
1967-1971
VN 1968-1969
360th TEWS

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Members information:

1.  Newberry, Roberft D., Michigan, 178th Replacement Co., 90th Replacement Bn (New Member, donation made)
2.  Noriega, Eduardo, Maryland, 360th Tactical Electronic Warfare (Renewal)

Name:  Art Zambile,  (1964th Communications Group)              Jan 28, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Yes I remember this day at Tan Son Nhut, Vietnam.

It was early Sunday morning and we were under a rocket attact, which last for quite some time and I also remember them say on AFN Radio that at the time we were coming under attack at TSN, that the "Peace Treaty" was being signed in Paris.

CMSgt Art Zambile
1964 Comm Grp

Name:  Terry Longpre,  (377th Supply Squadron, SEA Mobile EOD)              Jan 28, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  January 31st, 1968

Tet Offensive

For those who were there and came back, Welcome Home.

For those that died, God Bless them and their families.

For those that are POW/MIA you are not forgotten.

Terry

Name:  Jim Dunn,  (460th Field Maintenance Squadron (Crash Recovery)              Jan 22, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Ken you can try this website.  It lists all the awards that each unit is entitled to.  I researched all my units and found about 10 awards that were never given.
 http://www.au.af.mil/au/afhra/rso/wings_groups_index.asp

Jim Dunn
460th FMS (Crash Recovery)
66 - 67

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Members information:

1.  Cappel, John A., Michigan, 377th Air Police Squadron, 7th AF Guard (New Member)
2.  Mower, Roland D., Utah, 7th Air Force Flt Ops, Scatback T-39 (Renewal and donation)

Name:  Ken Witkin,  (33rd Air Base Squadron)               Jan 22, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I was TDY to the 33rd Air Base Squadron, Tan Son Nhut AB, South Vietnam from January 1965 to May 1965.

A year after I departed TSN, I ran into an aircrew member who was stationed at TSN with me and he informed me that I was eligible for several unit awards because of my assignment to the 33rd Air Base Squadron.

Does anyone out there know where I can find a list of unit awards for the 33rd Air Base Squadron during the period from January to May 1965?

While I was stationed at TSN, I received no combat pay or tax break and I certainly didn't receive any air medals for the 65 missions I participated in as an airborne radio operator flying to bases all over South Vietnam (and a few in North Vietnam) on a C-47.
Any help would be appreciated.

CMSgt Ken Witkin
USAF (Ret.)
Lifetime Member

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Ken, you will need to access AF Pam 900-2 or AF Pam 900-2, Vol II.  They will list all of the USAF units in Vietnam.

Maxwell AFB, has a copy of Vol II.

Contat Ron Myers at email: Ronald.Myers@maxwell.af.mil and ask him your question.

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Members information:

1.  Allen, Thomas S., California, 8th Aerial Port Squadron (Renewal)

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Members information:

1.  McKegney, Daniel F., California, 1876th Communications Squadron (Renewal for five years and a Donation)

Name:  Charles Penley,                 Jan 18, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Looking for Sgt Gary Hubble, 377th SPS, 1969-1970.  Last four 9384.

Sincerely,

Charles Penley

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share information that Walter Brown made a donation.

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Members information:

1.  Elderton, William J., Washington, 377th USAF Hospital (Renewal and a Donation)

Name:  Harold Boone,  (460th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing)               Jan 16, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Hello to all.

The changes to the View Message web-site layout looks great.  Good job.

Take care.

Harold

Name:  Dave Grant,  (460th AEMS)               Jan 15, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I attended the retirement ceremony for the C-141 StarLifter, it was really quiet when the engines were shut down for the last time.  A really moving weekend, an honor to be in the presence of the POWs.  Tail number 6600177 became the second aircraft at the U.S. Air Force Museum that I actually worked on.

When I returned from TSN, I worked on the StarLifter as an airman, civilian, and Lockheed Martin Service Rep.  I was assigned to the 445th AW at Wright-Patterson, and converted them from the C-130 to the C-141.  I remember the day when the Crew Chief discovered what history his airplane had.

The other aircraft I worked was the RF-4C (Tail number 1047) and it was stationed at TSN, but now is on display at the museum.

Every time I go to the museum, I stop by and say hello to my old friend, and wish it well in it’s retirement.  I haven’t been back to see The Taxi on display, but I’m sure it will shine.  They say you always remember the people you went to war with.  It is the same with airplanes.

Dave Grant
460 AEMS Dec 67-Sep 69
Life Member TSNA

Name:  Jim Dugan,  (90 Replacement Battalion, Camp Alpha)               Jan 15, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Tan Son Nhut Association, I came across this video this morning, and thought I'd pass it along.  We have the U.S.S. New Jersey here in my area, and I know what this means to the veterans who saw service with it.

Please view the movie clip about the last C-141 retirement, the "Hanoi Taxi.    http://www.C141heaven.us/movies/C141retire.wmv

Jim Dugan

Name:  Terry Longpre,                 Jan 14, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I did receive an email from Col. Morris.

Thanks again for the help.

Have a great evening.

Terry

Name:  Tom McAdam,                 Jan 14, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Brings back memories.  I was with the 148th MP Platoon at Tan Son Nhut 1966 - 1967.

I remember very well attack number 011, Dec 4-5, 1966 and the crash of a VNAF Skyraider less than a hundred yards from the 148th compound.

Tom McAdam

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Members information:

1.  Boydston, Ronald L., Washington, 525th Combat Evaluation Group (Military Intelligence Unit) (New Member)
2.  Stiffler, David, New York, US Army, 178th Replacement Company (Renewal)

Name:  Dan McKegney,  (1876th Communications Squadron)               Jan 10, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  This is a great Vietnam related site for music of those times; scroll way down to see the nine playlists:

 http://chu65nang67.us/nam/vietnam.html

Dan TSN 1967 - 1968

FROM Chaplain James M. Warrington:  "Easter, Resurrection Sunday, comes early this year on 23 March 2008."

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Members information:

1.  Brown, Edward 377th Combat Support Group (Main BX)  (Renewal)
2.  Nivens, Kerry 377th Support Group, POL (Five Years)
3.  Shea Michael W., 1876th Communications Squadron  (Renewal)
4.  Tripi, Robert C., 460th AMS (Airborne Nav) (Renewal)

Name:  Terry Longpre,                 Jan 08, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Does anyone know if USAF Lieutenant Colonel Ted A. Morris (Retired) is still alive or not?  He was the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) supervisor for the USAF SEA Mobile EOD Team in 1966&nbps;- 1967 at Tan Son Nhut.

Thanks,

Terry Longpre

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Private email sent to Terry Longpre

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)               Jan 06, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  I am doing some research on the Pacific Stars and Stripes newspaper.  Tan Son Nhut was attacked on Dec 4-5, 1966.

I am asking to see if any of you have the Dec 4, Dec 5 or Dec 6, 1966 Stripes Newspapers.

I am wanting to know what it said about the attack.

While I am on the subject of the Stripes newspapers, do any of you have any issues of any yearat your home?  I would like to compare some dates with what I have.  Please look and then let me know.

Your friend,

Charles Penley

Name:  Jim Dugan  (178th Replacement Co., 90th Replacement BN., USARV, Camp Alpha)  Jan  05, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  To my brother & sister members:

I found the following on line, and the author is unknown to me.  It speaks to all of us who saw service in Vietnam.
 http://www.veteranbrotherhood.org/dear_vet.htm

Get out your reading glass, or clean your bifocals and enjoy.

Sincerely,

Jim

Name:  Larry Fry  (Detachment 8, 2nd ADVON)  Jan  03, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Happy New Year Greetings to all Tan Son Nhut Association email members!

The January Revetments issue is now available on our web-site:    http://members.cox.net/72452/revetments/mainpage.html

Get out your reading glass, or clean your bifocals and enjoy – it’s an eight page issue this time.

Sincerely,

Larry E. Fry
VP, TSNA
TDY, Editor Revetments

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  Hello Everyone,            Jan 3, 2008

Just a short note to let everyone know that the TSNA January Revetments has been posted at URL:

 http://members.cox.net/72452/revetments/mainpage.html

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  The Tan Son Nhut Association would like to take this time to share our latest Members information:

1.  Harris, Melvin E., Det 1500, USAF Postal and Courier Service (Renewal)
2.  Juarez, Roberto, Texas, 619th Tactical Control Squadron, 505th Tatical Control Group (New Member)
3.  Tkachuk, Nicholas F., Indiana, Det 1, 5th Communications Squadron, Div PACAF (Cryptographer) (New Member)

Name:  Alan Uruburu                        Jan 01, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  Just wishing all a, "Happy New Year!"

Alan Uruburu
377th Supply Squadronn
1970 - 1971

Name:  Janice Jones,                        Jan 01, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  What???  Another year has gone by and it is turning over to a new one.  So, Happy New Year for 2008!  Celebrate!

Love,

Janice Jones

As of Dec 31, 2007, 54 of these beautiful CD's have been individually made and sent to our wonderful TSNA customers. Have you purchased your copy?

Tan Son Nhut Association The TSNA 2008 CD on sale, October 15, 2007.   Thirty three individual's contributed photo's   Over 1,900 photographs and graphics.   Several new aerial photographs.   Classified documents, has been declassified.   Christmas gift for all your family members.   TSNA receives 100% of all monies.   $16.00 total.  (Shipping and handling included in that price) Send your check or money order to: Tan Son Nhut Association Attn:  Johnnie Jernigan 956 Donham Drive Beavercreek, OH  45434

Name:  Charles Penley,  (377th Security Police Squadron)               Jan 01, 2008
Email:  
Comments:  January 01, 2008 has just arrived.  2007 had alot of good things and not so good things happen to us all.  The Tan Son Nhut Association Members getting involved with many aspects of our collective endeavors was the main reason for our good times.

Your friend,

Charles Penley

FROM THE WEB MASTER:  As you can see this is an updated version of the Tan Son Nhut Association web page.  It's your forum to voice, things that are on your mind?   What are your thoughts about Tan Son Nhut or Vietnam?  What would you like to discuss in this forum?  What do you want to share with the members of this association?   Please remember that we are a family friendly web site and keep it fairly clean.

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