This past weekend I attended a reunion of the squadron I
first served with in Vietnam during March ‘66 until April ’67, fifty years ago.
What a great experience! The squadron was VMO-6 based at Ky Ha just a few miles
from Chu Lai in Southern I Corps. For those of you who were in that area, our
call sign was KLONDIKE. We flew the UH-1E gunship escorting troop transport
helos, medevacs and providing close air support for troops in contact. Of all the flying I did over thirty years,
that tour was the most rewarding. We saved a lot of lives and we took out a lot
of the enemy.
About a third of the original squadron attended the reunion,
both officer and enlisted. We talked and laughed a lot, sharing stories,
telling jokes, remembering different missions and remembering our fallen
comrades. More than a few tears were shed. We were all reminded of what a
special relationship we shared during that combat tour. We were special; we
were Marines. Today, I see similarities
in our Detachment. Although we are not being tested as my unit was in combat,
we have all faced similar tests in our military service and life after leaving
the Corps. Our Marine heritage serves us well now. We all know the value of
service together to accomplish the mission.
On September 10 we will render honors at the dedication of
the new Vietnam Veterans Monument in Hurricane. I encourage all hands to fall
out for that event, especially Vietnam vets.
Later that day we will announce the winners of the rifle and pistol
drawings. We have sold almost all of the tickets. Thanks to all who helped with
this successful fundraiser. We have a few tickets left if you missed out.
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