MACV Team 24 – Kon Tum-Dak.
This Page is intended for the discussion of the Military Assistance Command Vietnam Team 24 located in Kon Tum-Dak.
MACV Teams
Military Assistance Command Teams Vietnam
MACV Team 24 – Kon Tum-Dak.
This Page is intended for the discussion of the Military Assistance Command Vietnam Team 24 located in Kon Tum-Dak.
MACV Teams 
His name sounds familiar. We had 4 battalions in the 42nd. I was mostly with the 3rd battalion. He might have been assigned to our team HQ at Tanh Canh up by Dakto.
I was billeted at the MACV compound in Kontum just north of town. I replaced a Capt. Davis. (Can’t recall his first name).
Chuck was at the MACV compound as well
Wishing everyone the very best on this Memorial Day.
Joe Cabrera
Security Platoon
MACV Compound
STZ24
March 1967-March 1968
JOE , SAME TO YOU – THANKS MIKE TORPEY
Same to you and all veterans.
Bruce DuPuis
24 STZ
Advisor, 42nd Inf Regiment (ARVN)
3/68-5/69
Hey Bruce, I left Kontum around the 12th or 14th to go to Koelper Compound in Saigon and then the world on the 17th, St. Patty’s Day all the way home. We may have crossed paths briefly if you were there by then.
I hade a good friend with the 42nd, tall skinny kid from Minnesota,
Sp5 named Chuck Schwiderski. He left Dec 68. Did you know him? We had our little exploits at the Vompound from time to time, to include Tet.
I’m sad to say he passed away a few months ago, he will be missed, by me for sure.
Anyway, it’s nice to come across someone that, if not knowing me, knew the place and space that I occupied so many years ago. I hope you and yours are well and that you’re in a good place! I’m glad you reached out!
Joe Cabrera
I was stationed at the MACV Compound in Kontum, STZ24 from March ‘67 to March ‘68. I was present for TET and for a few weeks after. Myself and two other gentlemen, Chuck Meyers US Army, stationed there at the same time and Bob Connor USAF are trying to locate the grave site of the NVA/VC that perished near the compound during TET in order to help the Vietnamese government in locating their MIA,KIA.
IThe bodies were placed in a mass grave by an earthmover somewhere on the north side of 43rd Signal. I am trying to find any photographs or firsthand accounts of the burial. It would help greatly in trying to locate the exact location.
Thank you,
Joe Cabrera Sp4/E4
Security Platoon
MACV Compound
RVN Kontum
March ‘67 – March ‘68
JOE, I remember seeing the large grave that was dug and them bulldozing the bodies into it. The location was about 20 yards
off the road next to the 43 signal.I have a lot of photos of the dead nva along the road.If you want to give me a call my phone
# is 215-508-1066. Thanks, MIKE TORPEY
Hey Mike,
How are you? That sounds great.
Maybe you have something we can use. I’ll give you a buzz soon and see what’s what. Really nice to hear from you. Talk to you soon.
Joe
BTW Mike, are these pictures you took, or were they ones that were making the rounds at the time?
Joe
Hi Mike, if I may jump in, Allison I was there from March 1967 to March of 1968. I’m sorry I can’t help with any of the faces, but Mike, I was a member of the Security Platoon, went through Tet there. Just reaching out to a fellow traveler. We occupied the same space, but a different time.
Joe Cabrera
I just found all my father’s letters home fromVietnam (68-69). His name was Charles Ray Adams. I plan on doing a video about the letters. Please follow my YouTube channel, it’s under Aly Rae. I would love to find family of those in photos I have.(I have a video of Kontum on channel) My dad passed at early age of 45 in 1993. My dad never spoke about Vietnam so I don’t have much info. Thank you.
Hi Allison. saw your posting and found the youtube clip. I was stationed in Kontum from late 68 to early 70. I recognized many of the faces, but didn’t know many of them well enough to remember names. There multiple Army and Air Forces personnel from a variety if different units housed on the compound.
Mike Magnan
Does anyone remember a Col A. M. Weyand ?? 1969, and or his actual name. Thank you Pat Weyand
I served under col Thomas Weyland ( maybe spelled wrong) 68-69 kontum great officer
from my scant archives I see LTC Alexander M Weyand, Jul 68 – 69, Sr Adv STZ 24
I was there at the time at Kontum District with Tm 41. I have this recollection he could possible have replaced Col Whalen in 69 but I left in July so not sure about that.
Khai, Don’t believe you can post photos unless you post a link to your home mail or Facebook for others to view.
I too was an interpreter for our 41st Civil Affairs Team 4 in Song Mao, Binh Thuan. Can you tell me exactly how it’s spelled and the words for “L.C.C.T” I know it it stockade prisoner, but I never learned the exact words. Lâu Công Chiến Tranh is the best I can guess.
Hi Tom,
It is ‘Lao Công Chiến Trường’, not very ‘untrustable’ 🙂 person, who can only perform supporting roles in or around the battlefields, that person can be captured enemy!
Thank you,
Khai
Thanks Khai!
I wrote about using stockade prisoners, LCCT, to relocate Song Mao’s water pipeline. I guessed, but never knew, the exact words. Thanks for your help.
I try to keep up on my Vietnamese, but it’s an uphill battle with advancing age. Unfortunately, where I was stationed vocabulary was limited and the scope of Civil Affairs required no extensive conversation. My Vietnamese friends who I tutored in English don’t speak Viet anymore.
Hi Tom, Can I have your phone number? It is better to talk over the phone, my number is seven zero seven 310-4472. Thank you!
My cellphone is (319) 430-8046.
Hello,
I brother worked as an interpreter for MACV in Kontum and Pleiku in 70-72 periods, I wonder if any of you recognize him. Is there a way to post a picture here?
His name is Mao Phan.
Best regards,
Khai Phan
Today I am in Kom Tun. I will climb Charlie Hill and visit Dak To airbase. My uncle was MACV SOG.
If you drive out the highway south of Kontum and cross the Dak Bla River and follow the road until it curves to the southwest and then go about a mile you will pass right through the area where CCC (FOB-2) was back in 1960-70 anyway. The highway went right through the middle of it.
Did your dad know a Msg Smith, Ssg Fondas or Henry Ganious probably Msg. Ganious and I were on the same team in 63 the other two I knew in Germany.
I was stationed at KOntum MACV compound from April 69 to Nov.69. I am very interested in finding any information, name, home town, etc. Of a Command Sargeant Major who was killed during a mortar attack on the compound shortly before I was transferred to Dong Xoai. He had only a day or two left in country and a week or two left before he retired.
Hello,
I came across this page unexpectedly and my hopes became lifted. My father, Roger Lathrop Lauritzen was a marine in Vietnam. His ailing health has contributed to a loss of contact with me. I am not sure if he is still with us. Unfortunately, i do not know much about his deployments but i do know he carried a grenade launcher and in lieu of a flak jacket he wore a custom vest filled with grenade rounds. I know it’s an off chance, but i thought it couldn’t hurt to throw his name out there and see if anybody recognized it.
Thanks, Nick Lauritzen
Hello, I’m trying to help my stepfather locate members of his team from 1962-1964. His name is George Simpson and he thinks he was in this team. He was in Cambodia during that time “blowing up bridges,” his dog tags were taken before he went in, and he wore only fatigues with out any military insignia. His memory is fading and I’m trying to help him get VA benefits. He says he’s been told that he never served and has no discharge papers. Does anyone remember him? Thanks so much.
I served as Sr Adv 2-42 Infantry Bn (ARVN) wi in Kontum from May 1967 to Feb 1968.
We were OPCON TO THE 21st STZ.
I would like to hear from anyone who served
On Team 24 or The 42nd Infantry Regt In
Tan Canh.
Hi, John:
I also served as Sr Adv to 2/42, about Aug 68-Feb 69. Dai Uy U Bn CO, I believe. We were subordinate to the 42d Regt and part of 24 STZ. Moved to G-3 Air Adv 24 STZ after that till I departed in Aug 69. We’re been having annual reunions. Next one n Charleston, SC, Oct 20-24. Love to have you join us to tell some new war stories; old ones are becoming repetitive LOL. just BSing. Great group of guys and their ladies. Regards, Joel
It would be good to share experiences with 2/42 Joel. Can’t remember 2/42 CO’s name. XO was a Montegard Captain.
Do You know who You replaced as Sr Adv 2/42?
John
Hi again, John: if you expect me to remember who I replaced more than 50 years ago, think again 🙀😀
I also don’t recall the XO.
Please join us in Charleston Oct 20-24 as it’s shaping up to be another memorable and fun event. My email is jgart@aol.com. Email me and I’ll provide the reunion details.
Regards,
Joel
Surfing the internet and found this site. I served as advisor to the 3rd and 4th battalions of the 42 ARVN Regiment. From late January/early February 1968 thru late 1968. Then LTC Daniels transferred to II Corps HQ to finish my tour (May 69). Wondering if any plans are in the works to have any more reunions?
Hi, Bruce: Just saw this exchange. Bill Greinke, Bob Turner, former advisers too, and I are planning a MACV team reunion in Nashville Mar 27-30. We had to cancel our reunion in 2021, also planned for Nashville, because of the threat to our members. We’re planning to make a decision on whether or not to proceed in about a week. Any other advisors who would like to be added to our distribution list, send me an email at jgart@aol.com. Regards, Joel Gartenberg, Tan Canh and Kontum, ‘68-69
Looking For Col John Daniels…flew for his team out west of Kintum
LTC Daniel later became XO of the 2d Bde, 8ID in Baumholder, GE, where I was also assigned, in the early 70s. He passed years ago. A great, inspirationalently leader and friend.
LTC Dick Littlefield replaced LTC Daniel as Sr Advisor to the VN CO of the 42d Regt in Tanh Canh. He too passed.
My father – SFC Fred S. Whitman Jr. -served with Advisory Team 24. He waa in Vietnam from June 1967 (age 41) to May 1968. My father retired from the Army, and passed away in 1992.
Hi,
Mike Magnan formerly Adv Tm 24, G3, Nov68-Jan70. Been observing comments for the last few decades on this blog and its precursors. Some years back, I was in the bathroom at a winery in Oregon and on the back of the door was a poster about a Montagnard Orphanage Support Organization 501(c)(3) setup and run by Nam vets who served in the highlands. I contribute to it regularly. Trying to offset collateral damage for the Yards who were always stuck between a rock and a hard place. Here’s the website if anyone’s interested. Friends of VSO:
friendsofvso.org
My name is Tracey Riha; my dad as mentioned below (by Mike Azelton) is SFC Glen Riha. My father passed away earlier this year at 91. In Lafayette Oregon. I am one of his five sons and we would love to open discussion with anybody who has info and or pictures. Please feel free to contact me.
What year was he there?
Tracey,
So sorry to here your father has passed. I can tell you from personal experience he was a first class human being and saved a 19, at the time, year old’s butt more than once. I remember the first thing he said to me: ” Young man, you do what we tell you to do, when we tell you to & how we tell you to do it and you might make it……….He taught me many things, too many to mention, most important to me was confidence in the face of great peril and adversity. Your family should be very proud of him. I know I am. I have pictures I would be glad to share with you if you would like.
Best wishes,
Mike
Mike,
It was so good to get your e-mails. I am currently out of the country and will be back and available by phone and text on the 31st. Until then please e-mail me on my personal e-mail and I will reply to you as quickly as possible. othankugod@msn.com
Shoot me a test e-mail ASAP please
I am looking for information on 1st LT Charles E. Suprenant. He was shot down on 04/02/1970, Kon Tum Province. His aircraft was the C7 Caribou.
Blessings,
Rev. Rusty Norton
Probably best place for info is the Caribou Club (Association?). Good Luck. Patrick – Kontum ’68-’69.
c-7acaribou.com/
Dear Reverend Norton,
Maybe you have already found the information you were seeking regarding 1st LT Charles E. Suprenant, but just in case you haven’t, here is a link to the C-7 Caribou Association losses page. According to their website, LT Suprenant was lost on April 2, 1970, along with 1st LT Steve Warren Train, and Msgt Dale Elling Christensen. At the time, they were assigned to the 537 TAS, 483 TAW.
Here is a copy of the brief narrative that appears on the Association’s page regarding the incident:
Two Caribou arrived overhead at Dak Seang in the early morning of the 2nd to drop ammunition to the besieged defenders of the camp. The aircraft approached the camp from the east under the guidance of an FAC who was also directing strikes by fighter aircraft on enemy positions. The first aircraft dropped successfully but reported ground fire as it made a steep right-hand turn after delivering its load. The second aircraft, flown by 1Lt Train, made a left-hand turn to try to avoid the ground fire but was hit by automatic weapons fire at an altitude of 400 feet. The Caribou flew off to the south, possibly trying to make for Dak To, but it burst into flames and crashed about five miles from Dak Seang, killing the crew.
I hope this helps…
Charles R. Elliston
WO-4 (Ret) USAR
170th AHC, Kon Tum 1970
Arrived at the 24th on 1 Nov 68, transferred to the 2/16th of the 1st in late March 68. G2 during Tet and after. Have some pics. Remembering Charles Chesak on Memorial Day 2018. Chuck
I am looking for information for my grandfather. He was stationed in Kontum Providence in 1966-1967. Part of Unit 24th Special Tactical Zone. He is searching for a Lieutenant that was there at the same time. He cannot remember his name. This Lieutenant saved his life during surgery (this is why he does not remember his name). If someone could provide information on how I would be able to find a listing of the names of the Lieutenants during this time frame I would greatly appreciate it. If my grandfather hears the name, he is certain he would remember.
Thank you,
Amy
Amy: What is your Grandfather’s name and does he recall what assignment he held within the 24th? I’m part of the HIGHLAND WARRIORS ASSOCIATION and will pass his information and request along to our membership to see if anyone can offer help. I can be reached at bgreinke@att.net. Our membership includes Patrick Garland and the Advisors he mentioned.
Trying to get info on a C-7 Caribou that was hit and crash landed on 4 Apr 1970 while performing a drop at Dak Seang in Kontum Province. My uncle, MAJ Frederick W. Dauten was co-pilot on that flight(6 2-4180). The three crew members were initially listed as MIA, then later KIA after the wreckage was found. I know it was over a month before they were found/located (based on the telegrams from the Air Force). I am hoping someone that was there during that time frame may have been part of the search and rescue/recovery. Any information is greatly appreciated. Too many unanswered questions as the after action report says, “The #4 aircraft was observed to enter a steep diving turn and then to level off as if under control. The right engine was burning when the aircraft crashed about 3000 meters east southeast of the camp.” Thank you-
Tim Dauten
USAF 1989-1992
Tim: I got in on the closing weeks of the Dak Seang Battle as an asst advisor to the 4/42 ARVN Rgt. That was a week or so after the crash event. I remember being briefed on the Caribou crash and that we included that area in our body recovery patrols in May at the end of the fighting. Our primary mission was to recover the remains of fallen ARVN and advisors, to include searching for a missing advisor. I recall coming across a downed helicopter and vagely remember seeing air plane parts at another location. But no more detail then that.
My name is Ben Carl Youmans. I was an Advisor to the 42nd Regiment, Vietnamese. Early May 1970 I led the Vietnamese unit that secured the various crash sites while Graves Registration recovered the remains. We did a couple of the Caribou sites along with Army helicopter sites. They were all bad crashes.
Hi Ben, do you know anyone was in 41st Regiment?
Thanks,
Loan
Loan sorry I dont know anyone in 41st regiment.
Thanks
Tim:
Did a memorial for the pilot, Patrick Yeager, in Atlanta, GA. Check our website – AVVBA.org. I invited the Caribou Association to the memorial. Several that knew Patrick came. They would be the ones to talk to about the Caribou crash. If you don’t find them, check back with me & I will look up their info.
Patrick Garland (Lt)
Kontum, 68-69
Tim: Look up my VN group Atlanta Vietnam Veterans Business Association (AVVBA.org). We did a memorial for Patrick Yeager the pilot that was shot down. Let me know if you have any trouble accessing our website.
Patrick
I just searched for Kontum Team 24 after reading a comment in my VFW magazine. I was stationed there from April 67 – March 68 as part of the security team. I remember a few names from then, my hooch mate Mike Torpey, Richard Parzych, Richard Weill, Ernie Steinmeyer, Aaron Oberholtzer, James Hill, Danny Scheff. Larry Moblad. I don’t know if I have all the names spelled correctly or not. There was a name mentioned in an earlier comment, Joseph Cabrerra, who I kind of remember from back then. It’s hard to believe that it’s been 50 years.
Paul,
I’m still hanging in there after 50+ years . If you want to call me for a chat my number is 215-508-1066
Your hooch mate.
Mike Torpey
Torp,
I’m in Vegas until Tuesday, I’ll give you a call when I get home. Good to hear from you. If you’re still in the Philly area, I’ll be going to a ballgame on June 12th. My number is 203-641-1565.
Pru
Hey Paul, it’s Joe CABRERA. I remember you and all the guys very well. Ernie Steinmeyer was my Hootch mate. I was in the tower behind the Colonel’s hootch during TET, you might remember that, Hope you and yours are well. I can picture you there and hear your voice as if it were this morning. It’s been 52 years now, but it never fades away. I don’t know if you’ll ever see this, hope you do, I’ll never forget.
Hey Joe, great to hear from you. There’s a lot that I don’t remember but I’ll never forget the guys. Hope all is well with you. I didn’t remember that you were Ernie’s hootch mate. I got in touch with my hootch mate, Torp, last year. We were going to try and hook up while I was in Philly but it didn’t happen. I forgot, where do you call home. I’m still in CT. Once again, great to hear from you.
I’m on the Jersey shore. Glad you’re still out there kicking around. If your journey has been anything like mine, I’m sure you’ve had your ups and downs, but hey, who hasn’t. I remember Torpey well. Danny Shief, Frank Barton, Neeley , Stackouse, Captain Udall, Sgt Bell, Sgt. Lupo, SFC Stephens and how about the red headed kid, Riley I think, he was a trip. Anyway, I think of those days often, I guess we’re made made that way, to mostly remember the good times although there are some memories that weren’t so good. Anyway, thought you’d never see my message, so glad you did. Wish you all the best and as they used to say back then, keep on keepin’ on!
We don’t live that far apart, maybe we should try to get together sometime in the near future.
Sounds good!
Mt father is Herbert Schmidt who was in Kontum during TET. DO you happen to remember him. He was either a Major or LTC then. Thank you
Alan Schmidt
I would like to say yes, but I’m not really sure. In any event, any knowledge of him would have only been in passing. I’m sorry I can’t offer you any more than that. Good luck in your search!
Joe
My father is Glen Riha SFC – In case anyone knows or has pics.
LTC Herbert R. Schmidt was S-3 (operations) advisor for STZ (special tactical zone) 24, Kontum Province and left in May 68; since I didn’t arrive until July I did not meet him.
Hope this helps
Rick Nelson
>
That’s helps a ton. Thank you so much
Ralph: My hooch was directly across from your hdqtrs office door. I use to play music for your staffer while I was at lunch. I was MI, G-2 Air while at Kontum. Also was pay officer. Late ’68 until end of ’69. Tried to look you up when I came home to say hello. Hope all is well. Nice to see that you are still with us. James Patrick Garland, 1st LT.
Just saw this and hope that my reply reaches you. I was at MACV Team 24 Kontum Aug ‘68- Aug ‘69. Fortunately I am still around although bothered with many ailments. Been widowed since 2019 (after 55 years marriage). Me and my little poodle are companions to each other. God bless
Great hearing from you Hope you are doing well At 78 I was on great shape but after 79 it has been down hill all this year! Living in Atlanta. Should be enjoying retirement. Have been in hospitals most of this year & waiting now for a heart operation. This year SUX so far.
Welcome Home Art.
Ben Youmans tan cahn 42nd regiment ARVN, team 23 70-71
Thank you, welcome home. I just talked to Bill Greinke and he filled me in on the next reunion which I will attend in Va. I told him that was my home of record.
Does anyone remember MSGT Hugh Miller Robbins, MACV21, KIA 06/01/65? I recently was in the DakTo subsector of Vietnam 50 years to the day after my father, Major Richard H Lowery, MACV24, was KIA on 12/30/66. While in Pleiku I went to visit the Ho Chi Minh museum. While everything was in Vietnamese, and not focused on the war with America, they did display a MSGT Robbins military ID and his mess card from where he was stationed in Pleiku. I imagined he was KIA and the Vietnamese came in procession of his IDs. This was confirmed later while I was visiting my cousin in Chiang Mai, Thailand:
If anyone is interested OR if anyone knows of MSGT Robbins family, I can forward these pictures. You can contact with me on Facebook (Richard Lowery).
My father, Captain Charles Chesak was there May 66-67 and often commented on the death of your father. My dad returned home from that war 50 years ago last month, and I am starting to unpack some of his writings on his experiences. As a matter of fact for years I’ve had the Combat After Action Report on your father hanging on my wall with other Vietnam related artifacts. My dad got a pile of documents from the National Archives back in the 80’s and that one stuck out, for obvious reasons. Will send more info.
Glad to find this. -Mark Chesak
Captain Charles Chesak: 23 May 66 – 21 May 67, G-4 Advisor, Sepc Tact Zone 24, II Corps Advisory Group, Kontum
Mark, I am sorry to hear of your recent loss. It is wonderful that you and your family have been able to enjoy your father in the years since his return from the war. My journey to Vietnam last December was remarkable and I honestly have no ill feelings towards these wonderful people. My trip served as closure since I lost my father at a young age. Thank you for responding to my post and perhaps you can share a photo of your father while he was with MACV-24 (or any other memorabilia) . I will look through the pictures I have of my father to see if I can find your father (I can only identify him by name now). I am pretty sure my father spent most of his time at Dak To in close proximity to the Phoenix Airstrip. The pictures I have of him match the mountain ranges in this area. Kon Tum was approximately 10 miles from this area as I recall, and this is where they had the memorial service for my father and Captain Starr (also KIA with my father). I invite you to look at my facebook page (around Dec 29-30, 2016) as I have some nice narratives and pictures during my visit with my son (Richard H. Lowery III). I can’t believe its been all these years and here we are talking about this!!! It really would have been special to talk to your father about mine. Peace be with you brother and I look forward to hearing from you.
Regards,
Richard H Lowery Jr
Mark, My name is Daniel Lowery. Richard and Eva are my brother and sister. Major Richard H Lowery was my father. I wonder if it is possible to obtain a copy of the After Action Report from you?
Dear Richard,
On Sat. June 17, 2017 I happened upon this website while I was looking for an original copy of “Death in the Bamboo”. This was about your father and my late husband, Capt.Edward I. Starr, being ambushed. I can’t believe I came across Mark Chesak;s response to your inquiry dated January 2017 on this same day. I have always been looking for someone that knew Ed. May 2015, I received a call from Maj. George Wallace, he had been on the radio talking to Ed when he was killed. He had wanted to be in touch with my son and I for many years but was never sure how he would be received. We enjoyed our long visits with him, he answered a number of questions that I have had. He asked if I knew where your family is or if I had ever been in touch with you as he had been unable to locate you. If you don’t mind, I would like to let him know.
Hello Jane Starr Cronin,
I am full of curiosity regarding the “Death in the Bamboo”; I have never heard of this but will certainly search the internet. I would be honored if you passed my information along to Maj. George Wallace. If you have followed my trail on this website you can see I have had some interesting information exchange. I even had the wife of someone contact me on facebook. Please feel free to look me up on facebook; I have some nice posts and pictures from my father as well as my visit to Vietnam this past December. I feel I have grown up in the memory of your late husband, Captain Edward Starr. The picture of their memorial service at the Wooden church in KonTum with their names (LOWERY ET STARR) on the same banner has always been with me. Please feel free to discuss what you wish with me; again, I invite you to contact me on facebook .
Regards.
Richard,
I just spoke to Mrs. Wallace, Maj. Wallace’s wife and they are pleased to learn of this site so that he can be in touch with you.
Please let me know how to contact you on your facebook site as I went to what I thought was yours but didn’t find anything to do with Vietnam. Is there another way that we can communicate?
I have the copy that I received of “Death in the Bamboo” by Harold Ellithorpe and would be more than glad to send you a copy. It is to long to post on this site.
Thank you,
Jane
Richard,
Here is my e-mail address: jpmick78@aol.com so that you can be in touch with me.
Jane
Jane,
please search “Richard Lowery” in facebook. Also, “University of Arizona” could also be used to narrow the search and find me. My email is rhlowery001@yahoo.com. I can’t tell you how exciting this is for me and my family. Thank you so much!
I encourage ALL MACV users to REACH OUT; your stories should never be forgotten and may serve fill a void in many people’s lives affected by your shared experiences.
Regards to all,
Richard Lowery
I did not know Sgt. Robbins. He was killed before I arrived in Pleiku in July 66 But our team house was named after him. Robbins House.. John Ace. I was the team Medic there.
The museum in Pleiku was established by the communist after the war. The fact that MSGT Robbins military ID was retained means personal belongings were not returned to family. If you or anyone know of Hugh Miller Robbins family contact information please let me know. I would like to forward pictures of this to them.
Respectfully,
Richard H Lowery
Hello Richard,
I have sent you an email about Msgt. Robbins. We were so surprised to learn that some of his personal belongings were in a museum in Pleiku and are interested in seeing the photographs and learning more about this. Many thanks,
Wendy W. Bingham
Mr. Ace, did you meet my father, Major Richard H Lowery (MACV 24)? He arrived September ’66 and was KIA with Captain Starr on December 30, 1966.
Thank you for responding to my earlier post,
Richard H Lowery
I’m sorry I did not know him. I was with Team 21 in the Pleiku area. God Bless you and take care.
Dear John Ace,
Thank you for sharing what you know of Sgt. Robbins. He is my step-grandfather and was married to my grandmother in 1946. Was Robbins house located in Pleiku? Do you know why they would name it after him? My father is also a Vietnam War veteran. Many thanks, Wendy Whittenberger Bingham
Hugh M. Robbins was married to my grandmother (Marguerite Anderson Buckalew) in 1946 and is my mother’s step-father. We would be grateful if you shared what you found with the family. My father is also a Vietnam War veteran. Many thanks, Wendy Whittenberger Bingham
Dear Mr. Lowery, I wasn’t able to find you on Facebook, but I hope we hear from you on this site. Thank you. Wendy W. Bingham
Very nice to get a response from you Ms. Bingham. Please send me an email at rhlowery001@yahoo.com. I can forward pictures of the museum and the artifacts from Sgt Robbins.
Regards,
Richard H Lowery
Hi Wendy. My name is Clark Buffington and MSGT Hugh Robbins is my Great Uncle. I was sitting with my Mom talking about him tonight when we found this thread. She remembers the last time she saw him in Peru, Indiana when she was a child, he was trying to teach her some Vietnamese.
Hello Mr. Buffington. I am Richard Lowery and was in Vietnam last year in Pleiku when I came upon your great uncles artifacts in the Ho Chi Minh museum. If you are interested in looking at these photos please contact me at rhlowery001@yahoo.com and I can forward to you.
Respectfully,
Richard H Lowery
and a Happy New Year!
Rick need your email. Patrick Garland
My father, Maj Richard H. Lowery, US Army, was assigned to MACV-24 and served in Dak To Sep – Dec 1966. He was KIA on December 30, 1966 along with another American soldier. My son and I (both named after my father) travelled to Dak To and Kon Tum on the 50th anniversary of his death and founf the Phoenix Airbase, the area that the US Army (and I’m guessing the South Vietnamese Army) had their base east of the airstrip, and the catholic “Wooden church” in Kon Tum where my father’s memorial service was held after hs death. If anyone is interested I have pictures I can post; please let me know.
Richard H. Lowery Jr
Richard, I often attended mass at the Old Wooden Church in Kontum and would really like for you to post your pictures
Are you Captain Charles Chesak: 23 May 66 – 21 May 67, G-4 Advisor, Sepc Tact Zone 24, II Corps Advisory Group, Kontum?
2000_0313 From Colonel Donald A Seibert
DEAR MARK,
YOUR LETTER AND VIDEOTAPE ARRIVED JUST BEFORE MEMORIAL DAY. I HAD NOT REALIZED THAT HIS VIETNAM TOUR HAD AFFECTED YOUR FATHER SO ADVERSELY. I HAVE GREAT SYMPATHY FOR YOUR DAD, AS WELL AS YOUR MOTHER AND ALL THE FAMILY. IT IS HARD TO UNDERSTAND WHY SOME EXPERIENCES HURT ONE PERSON MORE THAN ANOTHER.
AS YOU WILL NOTE, I AM SENDING A COPY OF THIS MESSAGE TO LTC “DUTCH’ PASSAILAIGUE, WHO WAS THE SENIOR ADVISOR TO THE 42ND ARVN REGT AT DAK TO/TANCANH. I HAVE DISCUSSED YOUR LETTER WITH DUTCH, BUT HE DOES NOT RECALL THE AMBUSH OF YOUR FATHER ON HWY 14. LT BORREGO WAS ONE OF THE ADVISORS TO THE BN OF THE 42ND ARVN REGT WHICH WAS STATIONED IN KONTUM, AND OF COURSDE WORKED FOR DUTCH. HE DOES RECALL THAT INCIDENT, BUT THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE INCIDENT WERE NOT CLEAR THEN AND ARE EVEN MORE UNCLEAR NOW.
THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPH IS FROM MY OWN NOTES ON THE DEATH OF THE TWO ADVISORS KILLED IN THE DAK TO/TANCANH AREA:
Shortly after my promotion a tragic incident happened at Dak To. About three weeks after MAJ Dick Lowery and CPT Ed Starr, two talented officers, were assigned as advisors at Dak To Subsector, the Dist HQ was attacked. Both Starr and Lowery left the compound to rally the RFPF and pursue the Viet Cong. Both were killed. It was a blow to all of us. A memorial mass was held in the Catholic Church in Kontum which COL Phuoc, LTC Doan, Don Creuziger, and all of the advisors attended. There were other memorials and tributes to these two fine soldiers, the first advisors killed while I was the Senior Advisor of the 24th STZ .
THE VIDEOTYPE WAS GRAPHIC AND DEPICTED THE PROBLEM YOUR FATHER HAS HAD IN COMING TO TERMS WITH HIS VIETNAM DUTY. AT ONE POINT HE MENTIONED DAK PEK, WHEN I BELIEVE HE MEANT DAK TO. DAK PEC WAS A SPECIAL FORCES CAMP ABOUT 50 MILES NORTH OF KONTUM ON HWY 14.
I WOULD BE GLAD TO LOOK OVER YOUR DAD’S NOTES, ONCE YOU HAVE THEM INTEGFRATED AND EDITED. I BELIEVE STRONGLY, THAT THE NOTES SHOULD REMAIN AS NEARLY AS POSSIBLE IN THE SAME SYNTAX AS THEY WERE ORIGINALLY WRITTEN IN BY YOUR DAD. I WILL ONLY ATTEMPT TO RECALL NAMES, DATES AND PLACES AND PERHAPS CORRECT SPELLING OF THOSE ITEMS. THE NOTES SHOULD REEFLECT YOUR DAD’S FEELINGS AS WRITTEN.
SORRY I HAVE NOT BEEN OF MORE HELP. PLEASE GIVE MY SINCERE EREGARDS TO BOTH YOUR PARENTS.
SINCERELY, DON SEIBERT
Dear Mark,
On June 17, 2017 I came across your reply to Richard H. Lowery, Jr. I came across the site just by accident and was amazed to see your response, particularly on the same day I was scanning this website. It was very nice to read the note from Don Seibert about my late husband, Capt. Edward I. Starr and Maj. Richard Lowery. I am overwhelmed with all that I have been able to learn in reading your postings. It is wonderful that Richard, Jr. and his son were able to go to Dak To on Maj. Lowery’s 50th Anniversary. This is so special. I have been blessed to have found this site and look forward to sharing it with our son, Glenn. Thank you so much.
Jane Starr Cronin
Mr Seibert, my father was Major Richard H Lowery. If I understand correctly, you were the senior advisor for MACV team 24 when my father was assigned there. I have made many posts on this website and appreciate anything you could share with me about my father. Initial impressions, experiences and interactions, communications, even regarding when he was KIA. Thank you for the opportunity to reach out to someone who worked with/knew my father.
Respectfully,
Richard H Lowery
Don: I was Sr Adv 2/42 when 1Lt Anthony Borrego and SFC Bill Sizemore were KIA at the Dac Blau Bridge Bridge 6-27-67. I was in the Pleiku Field Hospital when they were brought in and I UD’d SFC Sizemore. 1Lt Borrego was airlifted to Japan with serious injuries. He did not survive.
I never met Major Dutch Passalauge even though he was my rating Officer. My Bn operated OPCON to the 24th STZ in Kontum. The rest of the 42nd Regt was in Tan Canh.
It would be great to connect with anyone who served in the 42nd Regt. ARVN IN 67-68.
I was a member of the security platoon at MACV compound STZ24 when SFC Sizemore was mortally wounded as was Lt. Borrego who would not survive his wounds. I remember Lt. Borrego when he would come into the compound from time to time to pick up his mail and for whatever other business he would conduct when he was there. I remember him laughing and joking with Sp5 George DeCeaser who was in charge of the mail room. I thought he was a real fun guy, a nice guy.
I met SFC Sizemore briefly when he checked in at Cpt Udall’s office.
When we got the news of what happened, we were shocked. What a loss. I believe it happened just a couple of weeks after SFC Sizemore arrived. What a loss. I pray for them both, every night to this day. I carry them with me always. I’ll never forget.
Sp4 Joe Cabrera
Merry Christmas everyone
I was with the Macs team in 67-68 and have been trying to find SSG Wilson, my team leader we worked kontume and Dakota as well as thew tea plantation We had an interpiture named chuck who was a Mountinyard.
Thank you veterans for your selfless service. My father, Richard Homer Lowery, was KIA on December 30, 1966, in Vietnam. He was a Major in the US Army assigned to Advisory Team 24. He was the Sub-sector Advisor to the Kon Tun Sub-sector, Dak To Sector (Republic of Vietnam) and was killed by hostile forces. Me (Richard H Lowery Jr) and my son (Richard H Lowery lll) will travel to Vietnam this December and pay tribute to honor our family loss on the 50th anniversary of his death. Can anyone please share your experiences and thoughts as to where we should travel to make this a very memorable journey for me and my son? I am especially interested in visiting the area where my father made the supreme sacrifice for our country. Again, thank you all for personal sacrifices.
I was assigned to Advisory Tm 24 from1966 to 1967. We were called Sector and Dakto was our Sub-sector. I believe Dakto was a 4 man team. I remember Major Lowery and Captain Starr. They were both killed in an ambush. As I was the Company Clerk/Radio operator I was the one who typed the letters of condolence to the families. I also accompanied their belongings to Saigon. They were both put in for the Silver Star which was later down-graded to Bronze Star for Valor. On 9/26/2016 I was very honored to accompany 84 other Vietnam Vets on a Honor Flight to Washington DC. While there, I visited the Vietnam Memorial Wall where I found these 2 officers names. Words can’t describe my feelings. If any of you get a chance to go, please go!!! We were treated like royalty by everyone in Washington DC. When we arrived home, we were met by 400 to 500 loud and vocal people. It was quite a change from 50 years ago.
Mr. Rider, I am speechless to see your response and I apologize for not checking these posts earlier. I would have loved to exchange with you before I took my recent trip to Vietnam. I also made another entry on this site just moments ago, perhaps you can review what I had to say about my trip to Dak To. My son and I actually flew into Saigon for a few days and then flew into the regional airport at Pleiku. From there I hired a driver and tour guide (interpreter) to take us up to Kon Tum and Dak To (about 100 km north). The tour guide was especially good at locating areas of interest (Phoenix Air Base, the site of the US forces in the vicinity of the airbase, and Wooden church in Kon Tum where my father and Captain Starr were memorialized). I encourage you to look at my facebook (Richard H Lowery) as I have posted some meaningful memories that you may enjoy reading. I would be honored if you sent me a friend request.
You mentioned you knew my father; is there anything you can tell me to help me understand more about him? I was 7 when he was killed, and prior to this he served many temporary assignments that took him away from his family. I have so few memories. Can you tell me if you were at my father’s memorial service? I have pictures of many soldies attending his service at what appears to be a chaple (guessing at the base in Dak To); I would love to send to you if you are interested.
Again, I want to sincerely thank you for taking the time to post. I enjoyed the visit to Vietnam and may plan another in the near future. I have worked in China for the past 5 years and I have wonderful access to Asia. Thank you for your service to our county and for the people of Vietnam. I truly enjoyed my time with them; they are loving, respectful and honorable people.
Does anyone have contact with Mike Rider SP-4? I replied to his 9/28/2016 post and would like him to see this. If anyone can contact him, much appreciated.
Dear Mike,
On June 17, 2017 I was very fortunate to come across this website and to view the postings by Maj. Richard Lowery’s son and the responses he received. My late husband was, Capt. Edward I. Starr whom was with Maj. Lowery when they were ambushed. For so long I have wanted to meet or be in touch with someone that knew Ed in Vietnam. I found this site while I was looking for an original copy of the article “Death in the Bamboo” as mine has faded and you can’t see the picture that was included in the article. Mine was a copy of the original and maybe there was a reason why we can’t see the picture. It is special to know that you were the one to have accompanied their belongings to Saigon and that you had typed the letters of condolence to us. I received many nice letters and pictures of the memorial service that was held for Maj. Lowery and Ed. It is nice to know that Richard Lowery, Jr. and his son were able to return to Dak To on the anniversary of the death of Maj. Lowery and Ed. God Bless you all.
Dear Mike,
It pleases me to know that you knew my husband, Capt. Starr and Maj. Lowerey and that you had accompanied their belongings to Saigon. I still have the letters of condolence that I received at that time, thank you.
Jane
I was in Kontume & Dakto 1967-68 At Camp Plei do Lim My team leader was SSG Wilson and our interpreter was a Mountain yard named chuck. This is the first time I have tried to find anyone that i served with. We secured an area in Dakto east of the tea plantation for the 4/42nd to put their guns in the ground first time i ever saw or herd 175 howitzers. My ears still ring today From the tet offensive . Does anyone know who all was with team 24 at that time.
I wasn’t with Team 24 during TET68, but a good buddy of mine, CPT Bernie Hendricks, the Psywar/Psyops Advisor was there. Both of us came in-country in Jan 68 at the same time after coming from Ft Bragg’s Psywar/Psyops training. We both showed up at the in-country briefings in Saigon before separating, he to Team 24, me to Team 89 (Phouc Tuy Province). Bernie passed away several years ago.
Richard B.C.Tom, LTC, USAR Retired.
I remember a captain Hendricks I was there from June 67 thru July68 There was a red head captain but i cannot remember his name.
I came to Team 24 in August ’68 and remember CPT Hendricks. Initially I was G-3 Air Advisor and later became HHQ Detachment Commander.
Hi, Ralph:
Good to hear from you and I hope to see you at our reunion in Fairfax, VA, this Sep 6-8/9.
Best,
Joel Gartenberg
I was member of Team 24 during Tet 68 serving in a machine gun bunker that faced the main road and the coffee plantation. After the NVA quit attacking the various compounds, the ARVN positions and the airfield/helicopter company I was assigned to join an ARVN unit trying to chase the NVA our of the city. I decided I preferred combat in the rainforest more than in the city
Art: I’m a Team 22 & 23 Alum having served in 70/71 and am part of a large group, which includes alum from ’64 thru ’73; and who are planning our third reunion this coming Sep in Fairfax, VA. I’d be glad to add you to our mailing list and to share our roster if you can send me your contact information. I can be reached at bgreinke@att.net. Hope to hear further from you.
I did not know your Dad. He is listed on and old 1968 roster. He was with the kontum MACV security detachment.
Thank you. ..
Excuse me for not knowing the correct terminology, but did that list the team he was on or any other information? Thank you.
Looking for the glue/information to tie these people to others, tie the events into some order. What MACV team/s were involved? 1966-1967. One company of Cao Dai; One company of Hoa Hao who went on search and avoid operations every 6-8 weeks; a larger unit of 300 montagnards who only went on one operation. There was a CIA fellow who worked with the montagnards, but he was gone from the area for a long time, thus the yards were not put to work. Army Major Joe Jenkins for a while and Army Capt “Ringo” Starr. Starr was killed Dec 66 in an ambush near Dak To District, north of Kontum, [http://www.virtualwall.org/ds/StarrEI01a.htm] and Dave Sisson.
Recollections and suggestion will be appreciated.
My father, Richard Homer Lowery, was KIA on December 30, 1966, in Vietnam. I have pictures of his memorial service where Captain Starr name was with my father’s as they were killed at the same attack. My father was a Major in the US Army assigned to Advisory Team 24. He was the Sub-sector Advisor to the Kon Tun Sub-sector, Dak To Sector (Republic of Vietnam) and was killed by hostile forces. Me (Richard H Lowery Jr) and my son (Richard H Lowery lll) will travel to Vietnam this December and pay tribute to honor our family loss on the 50th anniversary of his death.
Following up on this history, I was in touch your sister years ago. Eva M. Dailey? Thank you for honoring your father here.
Yes, Eva is my sister.
I will spread the word and hopefully someone will contact him. Send more info to me at byoumans70@gmail.com
Ben
I’m looking to see if anyone knew my dad, Charles Ray Adams. He was in Kontum July 1968 – 1969. I have many photographs from that time. Please contact me if you have any info please. Thank you!
Here is the email address for someone who probably knew your dad and was a member of the Security Platoon about the same time. His name is Joe Cabrera – Joe Cabrera (rvnkontum@comcast.net)
Norbert,
MACV Team 24 in Kontum. Assitant Artillery Advisor to the 63rd ARVN Arty Bn and later G-3 Air Advisor. Nov 69-Nov 70.
Randy,
I don’t recall any MACV discussion when we met last year. We talked about our days at Artillery OCS and my friend and contemporary Mark Steiner KIA. What team were you on? Where were based?
Norb Weller
Welcome home. Visited Dak To DHQ once. I was at tan Cahn Jan 70 to Jan 71 with the 42nd. Do you recall the American missionary living in TV village who sold yard souviners.
I will be there! This is 1 operation I will be happy to be part of.
Ben Youmans , Advisory Team Leader, 4/42nd, Jan 70 — Jan 71. Tan Cahn.
Thanks, Bill, for coordinating the reunion. I’ve made flight, car, and hotel reservations and am looking forward to seeing old friends and making new ones along with, of course, telling and hearing war stories. 8-))))
Best,
Joel
Tm 23 2nd Bn Advisor, Aug 68-Feb 69; 24 STZ G-3 Air Advisor Feb 69-Aug 69.
TEAM REUNION — All Teams serving the Tan Cahn/Kontum Areas of Operation; including Teams 22, 22 (Fwd), 23, 24; Advisors with the 22nd ARVN Div, the 4oth, 41st & 42nd Rgts for example. ***REUNION 17-18 SEP15 in CLEARWATER, FL *** for Registration & Details go to: macvtmreunion.myevent.com *** Current registered attendees range from 1963 thru 1971. Catch-up with old friends and maybe collect on an old debt!??! PASS THE WORD!!!
Feel free to contact me with questions: bgreinke@att.net (Bill Greinke 1LT/CPT TanCahn/Kontum 70/71.)
TEAM 22 KONTUM, TEAM 23 AND 24SIT-REP—Mark your calendars as the dates for the get together will be Sept. 17 & 18, 2015. Clearwater, FL. We have a recon unit checking for hotels, restaurants etc. Told them not to look for bars as any good Advisor can find one within 100miles.
There two guys, Frank DeLong and Bill Grienke who have condo/lodging in the area. If anyone else does great. We will try to find a moderate priced hotel for all others. I know this will not be huge the first time but it is a start. Gentlemen we are not getting any younger. Remember we all shared an experience in an area that was part of the key corridor for the PAVN to win the war. We helped keep them from doing that while we were there with a lot of US units help. It does not matter what year or what job you did, we were all involved with the Kontum province Vietnamese especially the 42nd ARVN Infantry Regiment. Team 22 Div Fwd, 23 and 24 and any other US who supported supplied or assisted us are welcome also. This is a family friendly party. Tentative itinerary is Friday night meet and greet share stories photos history etc, Saturday Morning enjoy the local area and beaches or hang and share more “war stories (sometimes know as “you had to be there to believe it”. Saturday nite cocktails and dinner somewhere local. Short opening to honor our fallen teammates. I will look at the Coffelt Database and try to find team members. PLs send me via email any names of guys who died while with our teams. byoumans70@gmail.com If anyone is interested in maybe having a nice Polo shirt with name team numbers years there etc let me know and will look for a vendor unless someone has one already and get us a good price. ALSO if you did not recently get an email on this then I don’t have your email on the distribution list, send it to me to stay up on the news.
Randy Dunham Google
Checo report dak seang
The USAF report is called checo.
Good read.
Probably it was on January 1971 when in Kontum the vc were digging a tunnel toward the MACV helipad. Looks like they miscalculate where to make the exit and showed up their heads at about 25 yards from the perimeter. We fire a lot of rounds to keep them inside the tunnel and in the morning the tunnel had to be blown.
All team 23,24,22nd div forward etc. If u worked with or supported the 42nd Infantry Regiment ARVN u are welcome and families. Clearwater Fl, Sept 2015
More detail later.
Email me if interested at
byoumans70@gmail.com
Ben, You seem to be point man for the Kon Tum teams. I was just in Kon Tum a couple wks ago and met a former intrepreter Lt John Le Van Ho who would like to contact some of his American buddies. He was at the Kon Tum district team and Plei O outpost. He is looking for Lt Carter, Cpt Bearson and Cpt Simpson. My email is: lundm@chartermi.net
Hi Max.I tried to keep in touch with you by your email address:lundm@chartemi.net but i couldn’t send it to you .It was failed.Can you give me your exact email address,please ?
John Le Van Ho
Ricky rifle=recoiled rife usually 75mm or 57mm.
I’m lucky to remember my name let alone someone from back then outside my close group. If had a picture, might remember them.
Norb:
I got stuck with being pay officer (MACV Kontum HQ) during that time….so I probably paid you every month for several months. I left end of 1969.
Did you know Hartley Coursen & Mike Harney? They might have moved from Kontum to DakTo after you left.
Patrick Garland – 1Lt, G2 Air, MACV
Their names ring a bell. Did you know George Moose, Larry Dacey or Desker Campbell? All based in Kontum (city). Norb Weller
I was on Team 41 based at Dakto District HQ on Hwy 14 about 2-3 k due north of Tan Canh. Seven of us advisors lived with Montagnards and advised RF’s and PF’s in tactical ops. I was 1LT with Artillery and Infantry mos’. Headhunts flew for us out of Kontum Province HQ. They had slicks and Cobras. I was there Dec 68-Dec 69. The shit hit the fan in our Montagnard and Viet villages many times during my year. Dien Binh (bridge blown), Kon Horing, Kon Honong, Toumorong, Dak Sut and others. Major Wayne Culp followed by Major Sam Starley were Dakto senior advisors to TuTa Bao. Anybody ever visit us? Did you write your name on the wall on the team house?
Norb Weller
I met Gary Biekirch in the late 70s He was working out of what we called the House on South Ave in Rochester, NY, it was like a Vet Center. I was in a PTSD group there in the 80s, and Gary was the facilitator.
The medic in the SF camp Gary biekrich got the MOH. That was a month of hell up there. Nah bro you can talk and share with us anytime.
Gene, check out team 23 and 24 FB page
macv tan cahn. Send a friend request so I can okay you. Send unit name and years when u first post. Your unit gave a lot of rides to us.
Was not SF. Advisor with regular arvn out of tan cahn. We were about 20 of us US. On the 18th I was back at tan cahn getting resupply and replacements. Dinks hit the arvn artillery ammo dump with 122. I went back up in ca nw of the camp. Lz got hit hard with .51 mortars and rickyrifles. Rest of my unit came in next day. 1st week of may I took our recon platoon back to secure crash sites so graves registration could recover remains. Lot of choppers and AF caribous were shot down. One of the chopper units lost a few on ca to the hill north on around your crash date.
I knew those guys. Was in the 71st med evac with Don Summers. He had been shot multiple times. There was a SF guy in the bed next to me. Shot multiple times also. Never saw so much pain and suffering in my life. Wish I had learned his name but did not. One night we were hit with 122s and I put my mattress over him and held his hand. He kept telling me to get under my bed but I told him no if we die tonite we die togeather, Ill see you in heaven. I hope he made it home. Sorry sometimes I talk to much. Thanks Ben. I will check out those pages
Ben,
What is a ricky rifle? Never heard that term. Is that a Mosin-Nagant? Just curious.
Tom Hyde
Translator/Interpreter
41st Civil Affairs Team
Song Mao, Binh Thuan, RVN
1968-1969
LearnCAD@mchsi.com
Gene thanks. All of us on the ground during that time were very grateful for you chopper guys. My Advisory Team with the 42nd ARVN Infantry regiment were all up and down that valley where dak seang was. Our home was at tan cahn just east of the old dak to airstrip.
Was an honor to work for you guys Ben. I know right where Tan Can is. You”re the first special forces guy I have run into from that fight and I”m really glad I did. I did 3 tours with the 119th. June 68 to may 70. Flew the FOB 2 missions staged out of Dak To in 68 and 69. Was at the seige of Ben Het in 69. Took the 4th ID into the Plie Trap in March 69. Lost our ass in there. I have been to every special forces camp in II corps and a few in I corps. Went to Leg Horn Laos a couple times droping off ammo and radios. I think I liked Mang Buc the most for the water falls and its seclusion. Best meal I had in Nam was at Poli Klieng just west of Kontum. You guys were amazing and have all my respect.
OK, I’ll bite (pun intended). Tell me more about this scrumptious meal in Polei Kleng. I remember eating egg flower soup and drinking Japanese whiskey with the ARVN Captain in charge out there, but have no recollection of a four star restaurant.
It sure beat the mess hall at Holloway and c rats. We were a taxi service for Lt. Col. Beckwith ( dont know if it was Charlie) . Would have been @ July August 68. Seems he had to visit every SF camp in II corps. I do remember the chow was good and tasty. Maybe they put the hog on for him?
My first stop here…I was at DAK TO and TAN CAHN from Jan 69-Jan 70, with the 1st BN 92nd Arty. We occupied DAK TO until mid to late 1969 when we moved down to TAN CAHN. Sure would love to hear from someone who may have been at either place during 1969? I stayed in the Army for 26 years, retiring in 1991. Have a website with lots of pictures, some mine and some I have collected. WELCOME HOME everyone. I can be reached at: eryaustin (@) gmail.com
I probably rode with you if you flew slicks. I was in B24, Duc Co, Dak Seang and Dak Pek
Gene was that outside the wire at dak seang. What unit. Welcome home.
Yes Ben outside the wire at Dak Seang. We were talking to call sign krumpet kilo. Ours was croc 6. 119th AHC. Crocodile guns.
Was shot down 18 April 1970 and crashed just outside the wire. All 4 crewmen wounded. Gooks had a 51 set up and got us. Wing man dropped his pods and came in and got us after a good gun fight
Greetings Gene,
Do you remember 1st LT Charles E Suprenant who was shot down on 04/02/1970. I believe he was flying a Caribou. He was a college friend and among my classmates who died in the VN conflict.
Blessings, Rev. Rusty Norton
Anyone who worked with team 23, 24 at kontum, tanh canh, or with the 42nd regt that is interested in a reunion next summer email me your contact info. In prelim stages now.
Does anyone remember a gunship going down in August of ’69 across the road from Dak To feul dump, and burning. there were 3 killed, the pilot and 2 convoy drivers who just wanted a joy ride. The pilot was hotdogging and clipped the tail rotor on some wires, it went down in a ball of fire, the Peter was ejected into some concertina and survived with some burns. A couple of my team mates and I had the unfortunate duty to help extract the bodies the next day after wreckage cooled.
Guys I made contact with Danny last night regarding SFC Ray Martin.
SFC Ray T.Martin Advisor Team 24 KIA 4/22/1970 does anyone have any knowledge of his service or served with SFC Martin at that time please contact Danny Palmer at fxe77csmret@aol.com thank you.
MACV Sgt. Louis E. Janca died on October 1970 due to “friendly fire”. Gloria Redlin who was with him also died. There are rumors about that the RVN soldier who killed both received a bounty for the killings. Gloria was a very nice woman, I did visit her house downtown Kontum.
I was at tan canh and we heard about the incident. There was questions about why they were out riding a scooter that late. Also we heard the rumor started about the bounty. On another site a guy remembers the bounty was US 20K. Hard to understand why such a high or a bounty period on the SGT. What made him so important? If I recall that 20K was many times higher than even the one on COL Day. I think (saw it happen before) the bounty rumor was created to make an obvious friendly fire death appear to be more of a “in line of duty” action. There were US personnel making a much larger impact in the AO who would have been better targets. A tragic loss indeed as a result of a terrible incident with no other implications. imho!
John years I was told by a guy who was at dak to airstrip with arvn 14th cav that a Hugh mushroom cloud an a large ball of fire went up and he actually thought the nva hit us with a small nuke. He also said all the resulting secondaries was the greatest fireworks display he ever saw. I jokingly told him I’m glad he enjoyed the show. We sure didnt.LOL
Correction facebook is macv tan cahn
Facebook page created MACV TEAM TANCAHN team members only.
Ben, Do you have the link to the USAF Dak Seang after action report on the internet?
By the way just last week I found on the Internet the USAF. After action report on dak seang. Will try to figure out how to post it here or can email it to someone who knows how.
John do u recall the 122 hitting the ammo dump in tan canh middle of April 70 during dak seang. My bn. Had just got in after being extracted for refit and resupply. We all spent hours in the toc bunker while the shrapnel rained down. My bunk had a 5 lb. Piece of steel that came right thru the roof. Ltc. Hai came to get Stearns to walk the compound with him in the middle of it, no way was Stearns leaving the bunker.LOL. couple arvn arty guys killed and couple prisoners in the stockade. By the way guys in the after action report about dak seang the 42nd was considered a “Hardship Tour” for the arvn assigned there. LOL what did that make it for us based there.
Yes I recall. Was in the bunker. Explosions went on for hours maybe until morning. Greatest drum symphony I have ever heard.
I probably rode with you if you flew slicks. I was in B24, Duc Co, Dak Seang and Dak Pek. I just found this site today. I was with B24 there that night afew days later I went to Dak Seang.
Thank you, Ben.
Randy:
We (AVVBA – Atlanta Vietnam Veterans Business Association) did a memorial in Atlanta for Patrick Yeager, a Caribou pilot that was shot down in the Battle in Dak Seang.
Go on our website – http://www.AVVBA.org – to see his memorial & 26 others we have done since 1987.
Patrick Garland
I meant soc. Sec. Numbers. I have the after action report too. Lost franks contact info. We were there together. I was with 4/42nd.
Ben,
I would like a copy of those rosters. Not sure I understand what you said about the problem with many having son on them.
I have a copy of the Battle of Dak Seang after action report April- May 1970. Secret -declassified in 1982. 106 pages. Frank DeLong got it for me a few yeras ago. Brings back a lot of memories.
I will get them scanned this weekend and email to any wants them and post here as pics. Problem though many have son on them. Any suggestions.
Ben, if possible I would like to receive a copy of the roster. You many email to me Chuck Schwiderski at chuck.sch@midco.net
Thanks
I was assigned to Team 41 a seven man MACV at Dak To District HQ on Hwy 14 north of Tan Canh from Dec68-Dec 69. District Chief was Major Bao and District Senior Advisor was Major Wayne Culp.
Thanks, Ben; email is: jgart@aol.com.
I will try and get them scanned into the computer and see if they can be posted. If not then I can email to u.
BTW, Art Elliott and I were in the same Bn, 1/39 IN, around 67-68 before we went to RVN, and I used to call him in CO until a few years ago when he didn’t remember me.
You’re doing great detective work, Ben; thanks. Can you post the rosters here so we may also see them; I would be interested in seeing them to refresh my memory about who was there?
Joel, on the rosters, I have not been able to get them scanned. I am mailing them to Patrick Garland. He will scan and share them.
I have located several rosters covering the advisors in Pleiku and Kontum provinces. Covers years 68-early 71 deros dates. Roster reflects actual positions at the time roster was produced.
I would love to get a look at those rosters. My CRS is getting untenable. Could you email per chance.
thanks
Ben…..would love to get those rosters emailed to me. Was Tm 24 – Kontum – ’68 & ’69.
Tx in advance.
Patrick Garland -MACV G2 Air
Patrick please look at the 70 71 rosters and see there is Gerhke or similar spelling on the list. Send me full name if there.
Byoumans70@gmail.com
Oh God. My bn was at the foot of the hill north east of the SF camp trying to fight up to rescue art elliott. We could not get across the small river as the dinks had it covered with multiple mgs. I last spoke on the radio that day and art said they were going to try and break out to the southeast. He was captured
I spoke with him a few years back after I tracked him down he has since passed. I still grieve for him and feel guilt that we could not get to them that day.
Yeah, the team thing is kind of sketchy and I’m hard pressed to recall what all Tm 41 encompassed. I’m thinking it was KonTum Province and KonTum and DakTo Districts Advisors including the MAT Teams.
Our MI Tm 24 shop worked the Battle of Tanh Canh.
Patrick what year was the tc battle.
Hi, I’m Joel Gartenberg (CPT), Tm 24, Sr. Advisor 2/42 Regt Tanh Canh Aug 68 till o/a Mar 69 when I moved to 24 STZ in Kontum to serve as G-3 Air advisor. Worked in Tanh Canh with MAJ Milt Goo, CPT Jess Miller, LTC Jack Daniel, LTC Dick Littlefield, LT Charlie Cade, and others, More later..
Welcome Home. I was at tan cahn jan70 to jan 71. Sr adv with 4/42. It had been renamed team 23 for the 42nd regt. Team 24 was just the Kontum base advisors to the 24th STZ.
Lost some team 23.guys on Fb 6 in march 71.
Bad time out there.
Tv bit listing major battles in US history just ran and had Dakto – so many old memories &emotions erupted as result. I was Dist intel advisor 71-72.
hi are you work at Macv kontum
That was my father, Major Richard H Lowery. He was KIA 30 Dec 1966 in Dak To.
I was at tan canh the whole tour did not have a assignment in the rear so don’t know about any explosion down south.
How many ammo dumps explosions? The explosion I was talking about was not far from the date Sgt. Louis Emil Janca and Goria Redlin died on Oct. 1970. I am completely sure because by that time I was moved from a barrack where the post office was to another barrack across the street. I was sit barefoot at the top of the stairs when the explosion occurred. My compound was about 500 yards from the explosion and both compounds were connected by a dirt road.
I had just returned to the 24th STZ TOC at Tan Canh when the rockets hit the ammunition supply point on April 17th. It was completely destroyed and the secondary explosions seemed to last forever. The After Action Report concluded that the the area lacked the required protective berms and that the ASP was located too close to warehouse and Class III storage areas which were also completely destroyed.
Randy I was in from the field and at Tan Canh that day. An Advisor with the 14th Cav over at dak to airstrip saw the explosion and told me he thought the dinks had used some kind of new weapon and he was sure the entire base was blown up and gone. He said the fireball and smoke cloud resembled a mini Nuke explosion. We must have run into each other. At least at meals or in the team house. I will never forget LTC HAI coming into the TOC bunker and wanting LTC Stearns, my boss the Regt. SR. Advisor to go with him to the ammo dump. I dont blame Stearns for not going. Stuff was raining down all over the compound. LTC. Hai was fearless, a great guy in my book. One day I will tell the story of going on my R&R to Bangkok and bringing back over $5k in diamonds to him. Hey years ago I read on the internet on some macv advisor forum that it turns out a high ranking ARVN officer at Kontum with 24th STZ was a VC spy and ended up with a high ranking job in Saigon after the collapse in 75. He was feeding our ops plans and all other units too to the NVA.
Mid April 70 at 4 2nd arvn rest he at tan canh.damn lucky dinks hit us with couple dozen 122s. This was during the battle of dak seang. My bn was in palace guard for refit and resupply. We spent a few hours in the toc bunker until all the secondary stopped. The arvn ammo dump was hit. Our team quarters was full oh holes from falling steel. I found a 10 pound chunk right in the center of my bunk. Was a fun time.
Does anyone was in Kontum by the end of 1970 or the beginning of 1971 when the huge ammo dump explosion? I was with the 175th Signal Company and the sand bags were falling as rain around me. the explosion was in the 24th ARVN STZ
I was there. In the tactical bunker when the ammo dump was hit. Sounded like kettle and snare drum symphony. Maj Fowler. G3 ops was in the bunker and we could do nothing. A FAC or helo pilot reported the NVA coming down from the hills with flashlights on as in procession, undisturbed. A Huey on the helio pad looked like Swiss Cheese in the morning. I don’t recall any US casualties, but many ARVN and dependents were killed. Cpt John Avila
John, it was like a nuke bomb. When I was running toward the bunker my feet did not touch ground.
Ben:
Was in Kontum ”68-’69 w/TM24, MI-G2 Air Officer. Hartley Coursen was in our office. We are still friends and email each other. He lives in Ohio.
(Lt) Patrick Garland
Anyone know what happened to the three companies of the Highland Scout Companies? Their compound was down the street from the 24th STZ HQ and the ARVN Hospital. Any info would be appreciated. I was an advisor to this wonderful soldiers and have wondered what happened to them since I left in Dec 1968.
I was the Kontum District deputy from Jul 68 – Jul 69.
Randy, you came in right after I left. I will email Hartley “Kit” Coursen to tell him to visit the site & reply to you.
Patrick
MACV Team 24, Highland Scout Company advisor 1967 and 1968.
chuck schwiderski; my brother marty sisk may have worked with the highland scouts during that time period. contact me at tdcisco1@aol.com thanks ; tom
Hi Patrick,
Sorry to hear about Harney. Glad you’re well. I’m living in Seattle and retiring from the IT world this January. I have a group picture of the usual suspects when Abe left Kontum. Harney’s back is facing, the group may include you?
I can’t attach in this reply. If you want a copy send an e-mail to mmagnan@aol.com
Mike
Mike:
Harney passed away a couple years ago. Coursen is in Ohio & doing well. I am in Atlanta & mostly retired. I left Kontum in Nov. ’69. Harney went up to DakTo & Coursen stayed in Kontum. Those were the days! Hope all is well with you.
Patrick
I remember Mike Harney in G-2, a Hawaiian Irish guy, kinda crazy (& who wasn’t) and I kind of remember you Lt. Garland. I was in G-3, took over for Abe Elizardo when he DEROSED. I left in Jan 70, just after Col Miller KIA in early Dec 1969. Hope your life has been well since…
Hello all – I was G-3 Air from December 1969-November 1970. Remember having drinks with COL Miller the night before he was lost. Major Elliot, who was later a POW was my boss for awhile. Would like to get in contact with Coursen – lost his address on the way home.
I was just south of maj. Elliotts bn the day he was captured. My 4/42nd was trying to get through to them. His last radio message to me was “we are going to try and break out now” we carried him as MIA and never knew he was still alive and pow until years later. I took part of recon company back into the area after the dinks went back to cambode searching and recovering many arvn and US bodies. Did not find him. He passed away back in 2012 according to the POW/MIA website.
Thx for helping me get it right, Ben. I reported on Team 23 site.
Art Elliot was my Bn XO in Germany and I stayed in touch with him periodically a few years ago. I believe he lived in CO. Did I read correctly in a post that he passed away?
My Regimental Senior Advisor in 1968 in Tanh Canh, Jack Daniel, who I categorize as a soldier’s soldier, passed away about two weeks ago in Knoxville. -:((((
Started out with Tm 24 in July of 68 and at some point we at Kontum District transitioned to Tm 41. Spent the year as Kontum District Deputy Senior Advisor west of Kontum.
Rick Nelson
Rich,
I was assigned to MACV Team 41 in Dak To District from Dec ’68 to Dec ’69. We were based about 2-3k north of Tan Canh up highway 14. We were a team of seven. Major Wayne L. Culp was our District Senior advisor followed by Major Sam Starley. Our Province Senior adviser was Col. Wahlen followed by Col. Dillard. We trained and lead Ruff-Puffs (Regional & Popular Forces) on numerous operations. We had about 25 villages in our A/O. I was 1LT with an infantry and artillery mos.
I was there from Dec ’68 to Dec ’69.
Norbert Weller
It’s been a long time. I only made it up to Dak To a couple of times but talked to you guys on the radio a fair amount. No doubt we’ve met. Pictures would help for sure. I have a whole box of them in storage to go through so now that I’m actually retired I guess I’d better get to it. Happy 4th of July. We still have the traditional small town doings out here in Steilacoom, WA with parade, street fair, beer garden and fireworks over the sound. Wish you the best,
Rick
Norbert,
Enjoyed visiting with you when you were at Fort Sill in March 2014 at the OCS Hall of Fame. Can’t remember if we talked in any detail about our MACV time. I arrived in Kontum Nov ’69. Memory bank is overdrawn sometimes. Randy Dunham
Rick, My name is Mike Azelton and I was the RTO on team 24 at what we called “Kontum sub-sector” from July 67-68. Senior advisor was LTC John Botterman, DSA CPT David Legg, Medic Merl DeGlopper, SFC Bob Waugh & Glen Riha. Until now I was a little confused by the Team 41 info I was finding as I never knew it as such. Thank you for clearing up waters. SSG’S Franco and Burke replaced Waugh and Riha and Dock Neff also replaced GeGlopper before I left. Have since enjoyed phone conversations with LTC Botterman, dinner with Dave Legg and e-mails with Waugh but no success contacting the rest of the gang. Oh, and as I remember Major Mc Intosh (sp) was also there but only for a short time before my DEROS.
We must have passed in the air but there are many familiar names in your list. LTC Botterman? left shortly after I got there and Maj Mac took over. Franko, Burke and Neff I remember well. Maj Mac was killed in a Jeep wreck within a month or two; really tragic, classic M151 rollover thing pinning him down in a drainage ditch. Now I’ve got to get back to those rosters and see who else I should be remembering. Thanks for the contact.
1st Lt Garland, MACV Tm 24, Kontum Province, G-2 Air Advisor – 1968-1969
Hartley Coursen & Mike Harney were advisors also in our office.