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What happened to all the political posts and the "hate mail"? I took them off this website, since the election is over and I wanted to return this site to its original concept. You can still see them on my dennismansker.com website.


I was a Spec 4 at the Central Finance and Accounting office in Long Binh. 1971-1972. I also drove for the finance office between Long Binh and Saigon at least once a week. I have films and slides and photos of that time.
Alan "Pete" Bingham <pete@cashrecovery.com>
Roselle, IL -- Friday, 19 May 2006 at 14:07


I was assigned to the 48th Trans Group 6th Trans Co. 261st Trans Co. Truck #7 67/68.
Lewis Lanham, Jr. <llanhamjr@msn.com>
Longview, WA -- Sunday, 19 March 2006 at 16:08


I'm a vet also, 91B20, 349th CSH, nice site, great photos, keep up the good work.
Mike <reggert@tampabay.rr.com>
St. Petersburg, FL -- Thursday, 3 Nov 2005 at 19:55


While you were in Nam I was in the Navy on the other side of the world. I loved the book. I lost a lot of childhood friends in that war and I have read a lot of Vietnam fiction and non-fiction in trying to understand why. Your book is one of the best.
Michael Craig <MCRAIG@peoplepc.com>
Dubuque, IA -- Saturday, 24 Sept 2005 at 14:11
Thanks for the plug for the book -- it's always gratifying to hear from another "satisfied customer".


I was in Bien Hoa 66-67 with the 87th Quartermaster Detach. but we were attached to the 118th Thunderbirds (If I remember correctly). Anyway, Terry Crowley, Where are you??? Terry was from Fall River, Mass.
John Parra <John2crows@aol.com>
Bishop, CA -- Tuesday 16 Aug 2005 at 15:44
How about it? Anyone out there know Terry Crowley?


I was in the 151st TC from aug 67 to Jan 28th 68. At that time I was transferred up north to Phu Bai with MACV SOG. My best friend stayed with the 151st, and we are in contact with each other. I had dinner with him a couple months ago when I was passing through Springfield, MO. He is the person who was driving the company show truck, when he wrecked it. His name is Darrell Sons. For more info please email me.
Roger Stearns <rogerstearns@yahoo.com>
Shellburn, IN -- Monday 17 May 2005 at 04:13


Great site. The pictures brought back memories. I needed to have the picture of the Chinese restaurant to show my new wife how hard things had been for her ex-husband when he was in Long Binh. I was a clerk at the USARV Advisors School, in Di An, close to Long Binh 9/70-6/71.
Ed Dowds <ed_dowds@hotmail.com>
Hillsborough, NJ -- Monday 29 June 2005 at 14:48


I am looking for information on a James Edward "Chuck" Pulley. I suspect you are still in touch with buddies around the country. He served with the 523rd Trans Company, 8th Trans Group, 1st Log. He was killed in May of 1969 in an ambush. I found a guntruck site where it mentions a James E______ was killed. The last name is not listed and there is supposedly a picture there of the aftermath of the truck, but the picture is not there. In my research, it coincides with James Edward "Chuck" Pulley of Idabel, Oklahoma also from Midland, Texas.
Bill Brown <bmbrown@grandecom.net>
Permian Basin Vietnam Veteran Memorial
Odessa, TX -- Sunday, 12 June 2005 at 14:18
Can anyone help Bill? And be sure to check out his website -- it is well worth the visit.


I was in the 151st TC from aug 67 to Jan 28th 68. At that time I was transferred up north to Phu Bai with MACV SOG. My best friend stayed with the 151st, and we are in contact with each other. I had dinner with him a couple months ago when I was passing through Springfield, MO. He is the person who was driving the company show truck, when he wrecked it. His name is Darrell Sons. For more info please email me.
Roger Stearns <rogerstearns@yahoo.com>
Shelburn, IN -- Tuesday, 17 May 2005 at 04:13


Nice site. I spent a lot of time runnin up and down those roads on the way to Vihn Long and Can Tho. That is also the first picture I've seen of the Loon Foon! Mark Johnson 972nd Signal Bn, Long Bihn 68-69
Mark Johnson <mark.johnson@usg.edu>
Athens, GA -- Saturday, 30 Apr 2005 at 19:51


I worked in the 6th Bn S3 from July '69 to June '70. The pics bring back a lot of memories. Thanks for sharing them.
Terry Delp <terry.l.delp@lmco.com>
Littleton, CO -- Friday, 29 Apr 2005 at 16:05


Hi Dennis, enjoyed your web site. Found it looking for a clip from AFVN Pat Sajak 1968. I was with the 26th Marines 67 68 and 5th Marines 69 70. Grew up and still live in Cowlitz County.
Had a Buddy named Dennis Mankser. He Lived in Kelso his Dad was Dean and Mom Irene. Relation?
Don't know what unit he was in but know it was in the Parrots Beak think it was the 173rd. Anyway we lost him a few years back in a bike accident. Went to school with three that are on the Wall.
Semper Fi
Randy Lancaster <sneadh@yahoo.com>
Cowlitz County, WA -- Tuesday, 19 April 2005 at 15:39
Thanks, Randy. Always nice to hear from someone from my hometown. Your buddy was Dennis Mansur -- sorry to hear the news. I knew him slightly; the Longview cops got the two of us mixed up occasionally, but I don't know which one of us got the worst of it.. ;-)
--DM


I was in Long Binh from November 1970 to June 1971. I served with the 1st Aviation Brigade and our unit was right next to the big place where Bob Hope would come at Christmas. I very much enjoyed your pix. I too have pix from Viet-Nam and should post them on the web. I was a REMF.
Norman Teigen <Norman61@mac.com>
Hopkins MN -- Wed Mar 30, 2005 at 20:17


Hello Dennis --
I'am sending this e-mail for a friend of mine, Dennis Spicer. He was sent to Bearcat TDY near the end of his tour.
He was a POL driver with the 758th out of Phu Loi. He does not remember the POL unit their. He thinks it was a reserve unit maybe from Fort Riley Kansas.
I have tried to e-mail several other people but no repliess. Most of them could not be sent because the e-mail address has changed or for some other reason.
We would apprectiate any help -- he is applying for PTSD and the goverment wants accounts of where he was and when. He was at Bearcat sometime Nov. Dec. 68 to early 69.
He has an envelope from a SP/4 Larry Scholtz 229th S & S Co. (DS) APO SF. 96530.
Any correspondence would be appreciated. Thank you for your time and any help you might be. Thanks
Frank Hull <slideon9@hotmail.com>
No location given -- Mon Mar 28, 2005, at 04:46
Can anyone help Dennis Spicer? If you recall him being in-country when he says he was, it will go a long way towards getting his claim approved by the VA.
-- DM


i don land here
igbo bu igbo <igbo@yahoo.com>
lome togo -- Wed Mar 23, 2005 at 12:03
Yeah, I don't get it, either, but I'm posting it anyway. Always nice to have a "foreign fan". I guess...
--DM


Great Site.. I was with MAVC team 44 in Thu Duc, 1969-70. The site really brings back some good memories.
Bob O'Donnell <ROdonn1026@aol.com>
Staten Island, N.Y -- Tues March 8, 2005 at 16:40


62nd Trans Co Wrecker Operator M543A2 1967-68 -- if you traveled in the 48th group and broke down you may remember a wrecker with "Pussy Cat" painted across the hood. or I may have unloaded your projos at Tay Ninh, Loc Kei etc.
Joe Tuttle <craneman@att.net>
Fort Wayne, IN -- Tues March 8, 2005 at 10:13
Some of this hits pretty close to home. I was with Headquarters Headquarters Company Special Troops USARV from Dec. 15, 1967 to Feb 14, 1969. I worked in Personnel (Officers records). Most of the time I stayed put in the company area, except for R&R's. Most memories are of the guys I hung around with. Thanks for the memories.
Steve Bentley <slpdudezz@msn.com>

No location given.


I Served aborad USS Constellation 64-65 with VF-142 And USS Ranger 65-66 also with VF-142 Naval Foghter Squadron Flying F4Bs.
Steve Johnson <Johnney46@yahoo.com>
Davenport Iowa


1st LT, 233 Trans Co (Hvy Trk) -- 10 Ton M123A1C tractors & 40 ton Lowbed trailers. 7th Trans Bn TC Hill Long Binh 11/13/70 to 10/10/71. Platoon Leader and Convoy commander
Jim Keeler <keeler@taconic.net>
Chatham, NY


Great website! I came across it quite accidently while I was IM-ing with my 22-year-old son, Nick. Right now he's at Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, GA getting ready to go over to Iraq in two days on January 12th, 2005. I was Googling around looking for info about Camp Cedar where he's headed. Just for the hell of it I typed in 543rd Transportation Company. What to my wondering eyes should appear...
Anyway, I was at the 543rd for the 1st anniversary of Tet. 11 months, 23 days, 13 hours, and some minutes I think, but I wasn't keeping very close track. The CO was CPT Billie R. Cook. A more laid back southerner there wasn't IMHO. Anyone have any info on him?
I have a bunch of pictures, mostly with that ghastly greenish cast typical of the film and the Vietnamese weather. I'm inspired to scan them in and put them up on the web.
Anyway, that's enough for now. Thank you for this site.
Larry Van Valkenburgh <larryvv@yahoo.com>

69-70, MP in Long Binh. Spent lots of time in that little shack guarding the PDO yard on the north side of the base. Also guarding the train station where all the locals were checked. Still have pieces of rocket shrapnel that just missed my ass. Too much to remember. Thanks for the memories. All wars suck. Peace.
Roy Ferrari <rjsf@voicenet.com>
Brooklyn, NY -- Monday, 3 Jan 05 at 17:35


Found your site by accident but spent hours looking at all your stuff. Great site, good job.
Rob Marshall <rizla92@hotmail.com>
Nottingham, UK -- Wednesday, 22 Dec 2004 at 08:38


Served with the 151 from Aug. till Dec. 1968 Wounded in an ambush on the way to the Dau Tieng on Dec. 16. Also played on the TC Hill Championship Volley Ball team. Thanks for the good memories and excellent web site.
Jack Bausman <bausman@med.va.gov >
Rolling Hills, CA -- Tuesday, 21 Dec 2004 at 13:37


Thank you for the account of the night of Feb 22-23, 1969. It was the morning of Feb. 24 that my father was killed by a rocket blast at the camp Bearcat. I have never heard of the account of that period. I am planning a trip to the area in Feb. 05
Christie Malone <cjmalone@hotmail.com>
FPO AP -- Saturday, 20 Nov 2004 at 03:15


Thanks for the photos of Vietnam. I grew up in Saigon during the war, came to Australia to study before Saigon collapsed and now settled in California. I just visited Vietnam for the first time after more than 30 years. Today, I was missing Saigon and the home I grew up in, did some searches on Saigon photos and stumbled into your website. In my visit home, I did take photos of my beautiful birth country.
Website: http://www.photo.net/photodb/member-photos?user_id=87485&include=all
Cuong Tran <cuonghuutran@gmail.com>
San Jose, California -- Friday, 12 November 2004 at 11:44
Thank you, Cuong. These are fantastic photographs -- National Geographic quality for sure. Everyone, be sure to check them out.
--DM


We are students from a Japanese university researching on media and music. We came familiar with your site and are very interested in finding out more about your "Billboard Top 100 Songs" of 1964-1972. We have been trying to get these kind of information for a long time and thank you for putting it online. How did you some about this information? How can we further our research in music from the 60's and on. We are especially interested in researching music related to war, politics and so on. We appreciate your time in reading this message and hope to hear back from you on any suggestions or advise.
Thank you for your time.
Rikkyo University, Hattori Seminar <hattori_seminar_music@yahoo.com>
Website: http://www.soc.rikkyo.ac.jp/^hattori
Thank you for your comments on the website. It actually took quite a bit of work for me to compile those lists. I thought it would be easy, but it was not, as you could tell from your own research.. I tried to email a more detailed response to you, but it bounces from yahoo.com. Is there a better email address that I can send my response to?
--DM


I'm a collector of war letters, war diaries, and war photos. I recently acquired a archive of 170 slide photographs, from the Vietnam War, that were photographed by James Walker, who was a diplomat with the Foreign Service program. Some great shots he took. Walker was a tall lanky black fellow from North Carolina. Allegedly he later became a lawyer.
Firstly, I'm seeking any biographical info on James Walker from anybody that can give me any. Secondly, please tell me what do these Foreign Service guys actually do? I can't figure out what they do, other than take vacations on the taxpayer dollar.
Marc Smilen <waritems@webtv.net>
Dania Beach, FL -- Monday, 6 Sept 2004 at 09:55


Welcome home from a REMF, MSTSOV* 70 and 71.
Joe W. Reeves <jreeves@smith.com>
No location given -- Tuesday, 31 Aug 2004 at 13:52
* Military Sea Transportation Service Office, Vietnam


Great Website, for my part especially for the invaluable information on Old Saigon in the Historical Photos section. I am currently writing a book about the Caravelle Hotel and would be greatly interested to hear anyone's recollections of their time in Saigon, especially of their memories, if any, of the hotel. Anyone quoted in the book would be credited (unless they prefer otherwise). Very best wishes to all.
Adam Nebbs <nebbs@netvigator.com>
Hong Kong -- Monday, 30 Aug 2004 at 05:55


Thank you, Dennis, for you work on the web. I was at Phu Lam Sig Bn from May 68-May 69. You and other vets might enjoy visiting www.phulam.com, a site for Phu Lam veterans. Your site is superb.
Bill Perkins <wmsperk@bellsouth.net>
Charlotte, NC -- Wednesday, 25 Aug 2004 at 11:23


Great site. When you were chairborne feet-dry, I was livin it up feet-wet in the Tonkin Gulf Yacht Club with 5300 of my closest friends.
Clint Ferrara <clintferr@yahoo.com>
Shelton, WA -- Wednesday, 18 Aug 2004 at 20:55


I am a 69-72 Army vet who learned quickly to never volunteer and spent my time in Hawaii. I just returned from two weeks in Thu Duc where my girlfriend's family resides. Thu Duc is on the edge of the urban sector today but still has a nice small town feel with lettuce and OngChoy farms around the North side. I had some mental images of the town thirty years ago but was stunned to see your pictures. I have a few more of Thu Duc today which I could send if you like.
Tom Hill <tom.hill@garstseedco.com>
Honolulu, HI -- Thursday, July 01, 2004, at 11:45

Update: Tom did send those photographs, and you can see them here.
--DM


I was in the 120th TC and 352 TC in 1968-69. Would like to know if any others are out there.
George Thorne <georgethorne@hotmail.com>
Corunna, MI -- Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 16:24


Great site Dennis. I was with the 86th Trans. At Long Binh Nov. 68 To Nov, 69. I am looking for buddies who were there then. Welcome home brothers
Herb Miller <orchgrin@wmconnect.com>
New Bedford MA -- Tuesday, June 08, 2004 at 10:45


Dennis, found your site by accident. I was the first company clerk for the 543rd TC in VietNam. as johnjhig said, we formed at Ft Campbell, arrived in country in Oct. l966, and I rotated out in Sept. 1967. William Hawkins was lst SGT, CPT John Kypers, was CO, replaced by F. Hansen, and I think Pitts replaced lstSgt. I cannot remember the name of the company clerk, I will. I have wondered all these years about the 543rd, heard so many stories. I have a roster of most of the guys in the unit with addresses in l967. I have so many questions, Tet and the 543rd etc. I hope others will share, the early days. It is a blessing to have found this site
Benny Salter <bsalter@hotmail.com>
Shawnee, OK -- Friday, June 04, 2004 at 20:27


Looking at your website of the pictures of the 151st Trans, that's me being interviewed in picture #14. I was a driver of convoys, before the 151st disbanded snd became a guard unit. I was still driving for the 151st, but driving the cattle car from Long Bin to Saigon. Just wanted to see if anyone else is out there. I was there 68 to 69,
Bill Green <billtgreen@yahoo.com>
Camarillo, CA -- Friday, May 28, 2004 at 17:37


Dennis! Glad I found your outstanding website! I was with the 5th LEMCO at Long Binh from 1/68-1/69. I'm still looking over the photos & reading your diary. I well remember these areas! I've wondered about the old neighborhood over the years and have thought of returning for a visit. I'd like to hear from you and our fellow veterans! Great website!
Dennis Powers <dpowers9@wi.rr.com>
Brookfield, WI -- Friday, May 14, 2004 at 23:13


I was in the 261st TC in October 1966. Went to Long Binh from Ft. Campbell Ky.
Michael Adams <cj_5_98@hotmail.com>
Coshocton, OH -- Sunday, May 3, 2004 at 19:27


Nice web site. I was also in Vietnam with the First Log Jan 1969-Jan 1970, 134th Quartermater Co., near Qui Nhon. I plan to purchase your book, and when I am finished reading it, will sign here again. Good luck on the campaign trail.
Dennis Bradley <dennisgen@hotmail.com>
Rapid City MI -- Friday, April 30, 2004, at 20:12


I've enjoyed your site. Brings back some memories. I was there from Dec '69 to Feb'71 (Extended my stay so that I could get out of the Army when I got back). I was a personnel records clerk assigned to Headquarters Company, Long Binh Post. Our company area was right on "Highway One" between gate 2 and gate 3. HHQ had charge of things like clubs and messes, TOC, medical and dental clinics, postal - things like that. Actually we were part of the 56th APU or they were part of us. I never did understand the Army's way of staffing. Eventually (late '70 or early '71), our unit became part of HHC USARV, and we moved over near HHC. Was it called "The Hill"?
Brings back a flood of memories - - - The Dragon Lady (I seem to remember her in a dark Mercedes or Rolls, something like that) The steam bath. Loon Foon's. Malaria pills on Monday. Slipping down to Saigon for a real steam bath with "special". Vung Tao. Bob Hope at the Curry ampitheater. The constant drone of choppers landing at the medivac pads. LBJ (the jail). Occasional rockets in the morning just to keep us honest. R&R in Sydney. MACV cards. Ration cards. (How did we get by on 4 cases of beer a month?) Soaker pits and non-flush latrines. The sheer boredom of working 7:30 to 5:30, 6 1/2 days a week, doing a job that only took a couple of hrs a day. Hard to believe it was almost 35 yrs. ago.
Dan Thomas <dthomas@ij.net>
St Petersburg, FL -- Thursday, April 29, 2004, at 10:04


Enjoyed the web site. I was stationed at Long Binh Post Headquarters Company from July 1969 thru May 1970. Worked as a clerk in the Engineering Office. If there is anyone out there who was with the Headquarters Company during that time, I would be glad to hear from them.
Ken Horn <khorn@cinci.rr.com>
Cincinnati, OH -- April 13, 2004 at 16:29:19



Dennis - I'm probably one of those ass-holes that brought you in on the boats where the front goes down. That wasn't our primary duty - who do you think supplied the many forces through-out the mekong delta? or anywhere else that a boat was needed. Still I'm very glad that your here today.
John Pufpaff <pufpaff@aol.com>
Buffalo, NY -- March 27, 2004 at 18:00:47


Served incountry 11/66-4/69 with 5th Special Forces Group (airborne) 1st Special Forces..great site and keep up the good work.
carlo dibattista <fifthgroopguy@aol.com>
Lake Worth, FL -- Tuesday, March 23, 2004 at 09:10:47


An excellent and seriously IMPORTANT website!!! I will spread the word to all of my friends to check this one out!
Ron Gordon <ron517@aol.com>
Morrisville, PA -- March 23, 2004 at 09:03:11


Vietnam-70-71 1st Marine Div, 11th Mar, artillery hill 65, hill 37, Arizona Territory
Joseph W. Potts <joediss47@bluebonnet.net>
Clarksville, TX -- Monday, March 22, 2004 at 17:31:07


I'm enjoying finding "new" Vietnam-era oriented websites. It's been over three decades since I did my time there as an advisor in the Mekong Delta province then known as Phong Dinh. It seems as if almost everyone who served has a different "story" to tell and I find all of them compelling. I haven't fully explored your site as yet but I did come across an interesting one you might want to link up with: http://www.cantho-rvn.org/air.html It centers on the Cantho Airfield before, during, and after the time (1970-71) I was there. Some of my more memorable "adventures" involved that facility but I actually spent more time in Cantho itself (where I was headquartered and billeted)and in the field with my counterpart.
By the way, I'm all for Kerry. No doubt about it.
Alan J. Parent <parentage@comcast.net>
West Nottingham, NH -- Monday, March 22, 2004 at 08:29:53


Spent Tet '68 to Tet '69 with USARV G2 (SP5/SSG). Became the official "interviewee" of your depicted enemy weapons exhibit because my buddy had facial hair and was not allowed on-camera. Thanks for the memories!
Latham "Craig" Horn <hornl001@hawaii.rr.com>
Pearl City, HI -- Monday, March 08, 2004 at 23:43

Note: See the weapons exhibit on the Long Binh Photo Gallery page.
--DM


Hi Dennis, South Vietnamese people very much appreciate for your service in our Homeland doesn't matter you like the war or not. Thanks a lot for Thu Duc's pictures. It is my wife's Home town. Her father was a CEO of Foremost Dairy- Milk Co. You make her homesick (but good feeling.)
Cheers.
Tai Nguyen <tai.nguyen@verizon.net>
Worcester, MA -- Friday, March 5, 2004 at 15:53


Dennis, this is way cool. I have yet to peruse the entire site but this kicks ass! It is an honor to know someone who has in his heart such compassion to follow his dreams and to make reality that which he knows is right.
Tara Hielema <marmers@comcast.net>
Olympia, WA -- Wednesday, March 3, 2004 at 16:59


I was with the 94th Ordnance Company, 185 Maintenance Battalion, stationed at Long Binh outside of Saigon 1965 - 1966. I am working on my Army remembrances in the form of a journal and found your website when looking for a map of Long Binh.
Our company shipped in on the USS Upshur in October of 1965. We landed at Vung Tau on LCM's (Mechanized Landing Craft) and flew to Ton Son Nhut in C130's. We were trucked from the airport to an old rice warehouse in the Cho Lon section of Saigon and got our first taste of Vietnam.
Our Company was one of the first companies to go to Long Binh – our company commander volunteered us. When we got there, it had just been de-forested - it was supposedly a Michelin rubber tree plantation - and was an empty plot of land. We built a perimeter defense followed by motor pool maintenance bay and housing.
I left Vietnam in October of 1966.
I am attaching a couple of files - one is a street map of Saigon and the other is an alphabetical street list. They are from a document I got while staying at Caravelle on R&R.
Brian Fornear <Brian_Fornear@yahoo.com>
Thursday, 26 February 26, 2004 at 09:59

Note: See the Maps page for these documents.
--DM


Great site. I was with the 261st TC. I remember having my 2 month old daughter and wife in that mess hall for thankgiving dinner 1970. Daughter is 33 with 5 kids and living in Iowa.
Robert Puterbaugh <tc233nam@iw.net>
Elk Point, SD -- Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 17:51


Chanced upon your site while browsing the web for info on VN. The pix of the shelled building in your pix of Bien Hoa brought back some memories. I was there in Bien Hoa from Nov 67-May 68 and was crouching behind a revetment on the helicopter active when tanks from a Squadron of the 11th Cav made all those holes.
Have been back twice since to VN, once to Bien Hoa. The town has changed a lot, much more heavily overgrown, just as industrial. Airbase is closed to visitors.
I lived on the American Club compound with all the officers from 145th Cmbt Avn Bn, an Australian unit, a company of White Mice and some mysterious Americans including John Paul Vann -- A Bright and Shining Lie [Note: see bookstore]. I was the dentist for the 145th and ended up as the OIC for defending that part of the compund during Tet of 68. (yes, I know Geneva Card and all).
My eldest son is in VN now, touring around highlands in a 4 wheel drive, and having an amazing time.
Lewis Lorton <llorton@comcast.net>
Columbia, MD -- Tuesday, February 17, 2004, at 17:57


Anybody with the 10th Trans 67-68 TC Hill? We were reepers too.
Tommy Palomino <tp5669@aol.com>
San Diego, CA -- Friday, February 13, 2004, at 17:07


Just found this site, brings back memories. Dennis I didn't know you took so many pictures, strange to see myself on your site. I now have to go back and unpack my the things I put away a long time ago. I just ordered your book, after reading it I will send it to you to sign for old time sake.
Ed McManus <celtmac@earthlink.net>
Santa Ana, CA -- Wednesday, January 28, 2004, at 01:05

That's him in the "Day Off From the War" photo gallery. Hi, Ed! Nice to hear from you, and thanks for buying the book.
--DM


Your site is great. I was doing some research and looking for the name of a young lad, David Hellenbrand, who was killed in action on 12/01/68 while fighting in Bien Hoa (this was on the printout from the traveling Vietnam War Memorial). I knew David in the summer of 1967. He was my step-daughter's fiance. I wanted to write about the two of them for my memoirs class. Your pictures and stories give a view of what everyday life was like for a young kid serving his country in a hostile land.
Because this is my first visit to your site, I wold like to know if your pictures and journals are in print and where can I purchase a copy.
Thank you so much for keeping history alive.
Alice Hessenauer <deckapoo@ticon.net>
Janesville, WI -- Friday, January 23, 2004, at 08:28

Thank you, Alice. No, except for A Bad Attitude, the stories and photos are not in print anywhere, but feel free to download them for your personal use. All I would ask is that you remember where they came from, and not publish them yourself.
--DM


Dennis, do you have any recollection pertaining to any combat encountered by the 151 or 352 transporation companies? Also, does anyone know how I can reach William P. Wagner 1/68-3/69 or Ralph Hampen 10/69-11/69. Both were assigned to the 151 and 352 transportation companies. Thank you.
Tom Henrichs <MarshaSRC@aol.com>
Milton, FL -- Monday, November 24, 2003 at 11:31

I was in the 543rd TC from Sept. 1967 to Aug. 1968. I was there during the Tet Offensive when one of our convoys was hit and taken on casuaties. They drove into the 543rd. I'm looking for anyone who has information on this incident. Sargeant Brown was in my company then. I'm having trouble remembering specific details. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Also, if anyone else remembers me or any other convoy such as a night convoy back from Tay Ninh that was hit as well, I would deeply appreciate being contacted.
God Bless,
Robert F. Bodi <lbapps@yahoo.com>
Oregon, OH -- Tuesday, November 16, 2003 at 16:29
Dropped by your site today on a cruise through history. You did a great job with the 'then and now' photos of Saigon and surrounding area. I was stationed at the Capital Military Assistance Command. Drop by the CMAC website at www.saigonwarrior.com sometime. Many of the same pics. Regards,
Jim Finnegan <Finnegan@SaigonWarrior.com>
Website: www.SaigonWarrior.com
England -- Wednesday, October 29, 2003 at 01:34
It took me a while to find this web site and just wanted to know if anyone recalls MACV comm center company attached to US Army Stratcom. I was stationed at Ton Son Nhut Feb 1970 to Feb 1971 and it's been a long time since those days. If anyone was stationed same please contact me.
John Maslar <okie4571@yahoo.com>
Pittston, PA -- Friday, October 24, 2003 at 10:42
This is fantastic!!! I was just doing a simple search for Long Binh and found your site. We were there together at the same time and to prove it you even have a picture of me clowning around, think it was the day ABC was there doing the interviews. Also trying to remember some of the names for a few others. WOW is all I can say. You've done a great job here.
And to those who think that your stories are a bunch of crap about how WE did our job defending the post, I can say that I too was one of the ones on the wire doing some of the shooting during the attack. I was part of the Security Guard Detail attached to the 151st. I was in the tower I think or down in the little valley, can't remember for sure they bounced me around from post to post alot. Anyway great job. I'll pass this around to those who want to learn about what we went through and did.
Larry Jones <l.jones90@verizon.net>
Website: http://mysite.verizon.net/res0w60l
Calimesa, CA -- Wednesday, October 16, 2003 at 18:12

That's his photograph, all right. Hello, Larry! --DM


I think you might remember my name, I believe I was your CO--I had previously been the CO of the 151st, and after the Tet Offensive, I was reassigned to the 543rd. After some 21+ years in the Army, I retired as a LTC and joined a medical practice as their administrator. By the way, thanks for all of your efforts in displaying the info about the Company, etc. I certainly enjoyed some old memories!!
James A. Stafne <jas7417@charter.net>
Cookeville, TN -- Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 13:10

Yes, indeed, he was the CO of the 543rd for part of the time I was there. As I recall, he transferred out less than a month after I arrived in the company. --DM
11-24-2003: Updated! See Jim's photograph and story.


Hey Dennis my name is Dean R Johnston. I was with 543rd 1968. I was shot by another soldier on the 10th of December 1968. Do you rememer anything about this? If you do please let me know. I woud like to hear from anyone that remembers me.
Dean R. Johnston <Vietnamdriver2@aol.com>
No location listed -- Monday, September 22, 2003 at 11:35
I arrived at TC Hill in Jan. 1966 and was assigned to the 163rd Light Truck Co. Shortly after the 48th Trans Group headquarters arrived I transfered over as a field wireman in the commo unit. I left in Jan 1967.
Bob Winter <bjmmwinter@juno.com>
Chandler, AZ -- Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 18:29.
I got to this website by searching for "Thu Duc" I was in Thu Duc as a student from 70~75 in one of the catholic high school in your Thu Duc picture gallery. I have been searching on the web for pictures about that town that basically grow up in. These are the best. A whole generation of US young men had sacrified so much for Vietnam. I am very thankful. Godbless you all.
Son Nguyen <porsche947@yahoo.com>
Houston, TX -- Saturday, September 06, 2003 at 06:48
Hey. Nice Page. I was a Chairborne Ranger in support of Afgan Ops. I was the postal clerk with the 64 AEG.
Troy Stull <troystull440@yahoo.com>
Dover, DE -- Sunday, August 31, 2003 at 07:33
Talked to Larry Ihlang this morning. Thanks for the site.
John C Bradshaw <jcmrbrad@yahoo.com>
Independence, MO -- Saturday, August 30, 2003 at 12:22
I was in country from May 13, 66-Dec. 23, 67 with both HQ and A companies 69th signal Bn. at Ton Son Nhut and Long Bien. During this time I was volunteered to join special convoys from Bien Hoa to Tay Nhin after their ammo dump was blown.I think we were assigned to the 6th trans. I was with Charlie Mac Intosh from Amarillo Texas. We were given a deuce and a half with no breaks and a 50 on a ring. I don't even think our company documented our where abouts at that time.Does anyone remember this, Many different outfits also had volunteered men and trucks. I need proof of this assignment for possible agent orange complications.
Lawrence (Larry) (pigpen) Wesley <bandit9697@aol.com>
Troy, MI -- Sunday, August 3, 2003, at 17:03
Served with 523td trans from sept.69 to sept.70. Spent last 10 months in service in Germany. Also was staioned at Ft. Myer,Va. as a driver for some very important people. GOD BLESS ALL YOU VETS!
Frank Canada <frankcanada2003@yahoo.com>
Bedford, IN -- Tuesday, July 22, 2003, at 19:49
I am seeking all personnel who were in direct connection with the Meyerkord BOQ in Saigon during the first 5 days of the TET offensive in FEB 1968. My mother CWO2 Mary V Bender MI was holed up in the 3rd floor stairwell of this hotel with an M2 carbine. If anyone remembers or doesn't remember this woman please contact me immediately. Thanks to all those that served. God bless You!
Joshua <north40sound@earthlink.net">
New York, NY -- Saturday, July 19, 2003, at 15:31
Was located on TC hill with the 572nd Trans Co, Gypsy Bandits in 1970. Great to see some pics of the old home site. We were located where the 861st was and the bottom of the hill was our motor pool .. great site I will bookmark it. Feel free to hook up with my Vietnam pics as well. Any search for Gypsy bandits will bring you to different pages I have compiled over the years. I now write songs (about Vietnam also) and perform whenever I can . Thanks Dennis! Salute!!!
Don Mangus <Dmild2wild@yahoo.com>
Website: Mild to Wild
Ft. Myers, FL -- Thursday, July 3, 2003 at 16:37
Dennis this is really impressive. I have placed my order and Ken and I are looking forward to reading your creation. Congratulations!
Ken & Shonda Neese <kneese@reachone.com>
Olympia, WA - Friday, May 23, 2003 at 21:48
Served in Vietnam 9/67 to 9/68 at Dong Ha. Member of 175 MM Bulldogs Task Force Pike/Slawson/Jones. Fire controll (Weapon sights/Ballistic computers, etc). Tasked out to Operation Pegasus 2/68- end of 4/68. Traveled C1, C2, C3, Geolinh, Camp Carroll, Rock Pile many times. Have photos.
Ron Buchanan <r.j.buchanan@att.net>
New Jersey - Sunday, May 18, 2003 at 04:38
Hello, Im Vanessa 15 years old and I am searching for my dad, all informations that I have are in my homepage. Please take a minute and read it.
Vanessa Frier <hope_f_germany@yahoo.de>
Website: Searching for my Dad
Germany - Tuesday, 13 May 2003 at 09:57
Ammazzzing....Came across your story on TET 1969 I was on ambush that night with my squad C5/12/199th out side the wire quite a few miles saw the rockets come off the ridge....Spooky circuled over me with his spotlight on but continued on....the MPs pulled off their hill near us and motored by in their boat...Had lots of firefights the next day...Got ambushed big time in LST and in afternoon called in tack air which you may have seen.....I had 2 weeks to go shortimer//////thankd god no KI.
Jim Dyckhoff <jimmys@oregontrail.net>
Long Creek, OR - Sunday, May 04, 2003 at 18:36
I was stationed at Long Binh from May 68 to May 69 with the !st Signal Bde.. If possible, I would like to know what MP Unit was in Bin Hoa during that time. I am in desperate need of an accident report.
Jack Lockwood <Sgtjacks55@aol.com>
Bethalto, IL - Thursday, February 20, 2003 at 15:45
Great work Dennis. I was with the 71st Trans BN.,154th TC.(Terminal Service), Worked the Newport Terminal, MHE maintenance. We were based just up the road from you, Camp Camelot, next to takner valley. Really enjoyed looking at all the photos and reading all your information. I did my tour from June 67 to June 68. Thanks for the great job.
Allan Furtado <alson@prodigy.net>
Website: 71st Trans Battalion Vietnam
Plymouth, MA - Wednesday, February 19, 2003 at 19:37
We enjoyed your book and website. Thank you.
Gary and Kathy Hockett <theranch@toledotel.com>
Toledo, WA - Wednesday, February 19, 2003 at 19:24:22 (PST)
Very nice site wish i would have taken more pictures, but loaded for convoy,s at night. I was in the 62nd tc 67-68.
Mike Gum <mikeg@spii.net>
rogers, oh - Sunday, February 16, 2003 at 11:57
Thanks Dennis! I stumbled upon your site by accident and it triggered so many memories that I have been surfing for old photos for days now. I was with 379th Trans (Reefer Kings) 5/70-4/71. Never thought I would see the Loon Foon again!
Cary Crehan <carycrehan@yahoo.com>
Quincy, MA - Saturday, February 15, 2003 at 09:0
Great site Dennis...with great pics! Got ya bookmarked for many returns. I was with the 402nd at Camp Camelot from Jan. 69 - Oct. 70. We had the barge sites at Cogido and the other side of Binh Hoa airbase as well as the railhead at Ho Nai responsibility. Again...great work and welcome home!
Randy Richmond <randyandjan@mchsi.com>
Website: Randy's Rhymes and Ramblings
Waterloo, IA - Friday, February 14, 2003 at 20:34
I have only just begun to look at the website, but so far am quite impressed. Way to go Dennis!
Linda Ambler <lindambler@aol.com>
Port Orchard, WA - Tuesday, February 11, 2003 at 08:43
Great was in rvn 68-69 with d co.92nd En.69-70 with 261st Tc.Long Bien and 70-71 233rd heavy Lift 7th Bn.Oldest Daughter born in Bien Hoa. Thanks for the trip back had for got a lot of places.Great Job Bob
Robert Puterbaugh <tc233nam@dtgnet.com>
Elk Point, SD - Tuesday, January 28, 2003 at 07:58
I lost my life to the Vietnam War. My fiance went to the war and he returned home a stranger forever changed. I am currently in therapy because I can not accept what happened to him. I am trying to learn as much as I can about what happened to him so I can try to understand his needs and to try to understand what happened to my life because of the war. Thanks for your website. I just found it.
Lorraine Denson <www.dasanimac@yahoo.com>
Lenexa, Ks - Thursday, January 23, 2003 at 10:54
Was in Saigon 1/69-1/70 with CMAC. Spent a month at the MACV advisors compound in Thu Duc around oct '69
Vince Perpetuo <vperpetuo@aol.com>
- Monday, January 20, 2003 at 19:14
I was one of those chairborne rangers that defended Long Binh on 23 Feb 69. I was with the 92d Engineer Battalion and our area was on the perimeter right next to gate 10. I was assigned as a personal clerk at Bn Hq. We were on the perimeter close the where they broke thru. That was one hell of a night.
Wayne Engolio <entetruc@ktemca.com>
New Orleans, LA - Thursday, January 16, 2003 at 11:58
I was in Alpha Company, 1st Signal Brigade, 69th Signal BN, stationed at Tan Son Nhut AB outside of Saigon during the aftermath of TET. From what I've seen so far, nice job on the site. I have a lot more to look at yet.
Jim Augeri <Jim.Augeri@honeywell.com>
Albuquerque, NM - Thursday, January 16, 2003 at 09:00:
With the 86th in 71-72 as a driver. Lived in corner hootch at road intersection. A great site and those pics. The captions made me laugh for an hour. We stood guard formation on the bb court. 151st was gone at that time.Will be buying the book. Thanks for telling our story.
Robert Lee <fireco52@yahoo.com>
Redding, CA - Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 20:36
I was assigned to the 48th Trans Group 6th Trans Co. 261st Trans Co. Truck #50 67/68. Pull out of Cogido Barage site, and ran convoys thru out the Nam. Fun read lot of memories. Wish I had all the pic. I took there, but were taken before leaving in May of 68. Drafted but stayed for 26 yrs and 22 days before retireing in 1993. God Bless!!!
Lindy N. Hester <lindyn46@hotmail.com>
Clarksville, Tn - Monday, January 06, 2003 at 21:51
Way to go Dennis! Like a steppin' razor, don't you watch my size, I'm dangerous. So dangerous - Peter Tosh aka Peter McIntosh of the original Wailers.
Byron W. Zarp <bzarp@esd.wa.gov>
Olympia, Wa - Monday, January 06, 2003 at 08:53
Dennis, I grew up with one of your co-workers, Jim Wilkins, and he turned me onto your site, which I am about to explore. A friend of mine, Fredrick Su, also recently wrote a novel, "An American Sin", about a Chinese-American Marine in Vietnam.
Randy Elmore <mountaintop@qwest.net>
Bellingham, Wa - Thursday, January 02, 2003 at 09:06
I was in Naim 68through 71. pleiku 604th. trans ds. will check out this site . i was just browsing.
Mack Lambert <vanlambert@aol.com>
Lansing, mi - Monday, December 30, 2002 at 00:41
Great site! I served with the 6th Trans Bn, 86th Trans Co 1966-67. We arrived in-country at Cam Ranh Bay in Aug and got to Long Binh Sep 66. I have a lot of memoribilia from VN, the Trans Corps and 1st Log Cmd available to those interested. Keep up the great work and keep on trucking!
Phillip K. Sampley <pksampley@juno.com>
Website: Militaria, Books & Currency
Indianapolis, IN - Thursday, December 26, 2002 at 19:35
Vietnam War Records www.war-records.com users are encouraged to register as a Vietnam War Web Watcher. Once registered, they will receive LOST & FOUND e-alert's - an e-mail message containing the text of the Vietnam War LOST & FOUNDS to any e-mail account they specify. Vietnam War Records Web Watchers may unsubscribe at any time.
Vietnam War Records
- Sunday, December 22, 2002 at 17:35
I made this web site 12/04/02, with all the Major Army Commands and 25 guest books where people can leave info for old army buddies to find. one guest book for each one.
I served Aug.1968 - Aug.1969 Tay Ninh, 45th Surg. then About Dec.1970 - Aug. 1971 Long Bien, 86th Trans Co. Til ETS.
Alfred L. Peterson <alpete53@yahoo.com>
El Paso, TX - Friday, December 06, 2002 at 10:27
Nice site!!!
refinance -- Nice try, "refinance", but I won't give you free advertising. Contact me if you want to buy some. -- DM
New York, NY - Sunday, December 01, 2002 at 16:03
Dennis: Great job. I landed with the 543rd on my 20th birthday, Oct17, 1966, by troop ship. We founded the company at Ft. Campbell, KY. We took a prop plane to Oakland and spent 17 days boating over. What a trip. We landed at Vung Tau, I think, came ashore on one of those troop ship landing boats, the front opened, we hit the beach and thought we were at Normandy. We got up top of the hill and instead of getting killed, it was the entrance to an R&R center, bars, girls. . . What a start. We had M-14s for the whole tour. We were at TC Hill, then founded the compound down the road closer the Saigon. We spend half the time at the docks at night and the other time on convoy to the 1st Army north and trips south. I was drafted so young, just 19, that with my 87 day early out I was still just 20 and back home, wow. Thank you.
John Higgins <johnjhig@hotmail.com>
Nashua, NH - Friday, November 15, 2002 at 17:40
This a great site till I read the war stories As far as Im concerned they are just That war stories I am wondering were you in the army or the marines you showed a pic of a duce n a half titled me in usmc truck and the story of the girl shows a picture of her standing behind a usmc truck & trailer to the est of my knowledge no marine unit was stationed at TC hillas a matter of fact I never saw a marine till my unit 446tc was reasigned to I corp during TET of 68 other than that this is a good site I know I will catch Flak over these comments iv handled incoming before by the way the book looks like a good read
Larry Phillips <tc446ox@aol.com>
- Monday, November 11, 2002 at 13:57

Note: The USMC trucks are a mystery to me as well. As I recall, they just showed up in the motor pool one day, nobody knew anything about them, and they were just kind of "adopted"...

Update 2-14-04: I've just heard from another 543rd TC veteran, who explained the presence of the USMC trucks. They were dropsides, used to haul long chopper blades. They were the only trucks that the blades would fit on.

As far as the "war stories" are concerned, what can I say? They are all true -- they came directly from my journals, written at the time when the events were fresh and did not gain the patina of age and retelling that war stories tend to do. If someone chooses not to believe them, that is certainly their right, but I challenge anyone to prove that the events depicted in them didn't happen. -- DM


I remember the Vietnam War well, but from a different viewpoint. My role was staying home and taking care of the children while Jim was in Vietnam for two separate one year tours of duty. Those were not fun times. Even the R & R in Hawaii was stressful, knowing he had to go back into a war zone. Your website brings back lots of memories. I'll look forward to reading your book.
Pat Remy <pjrski@aol.com>
Olympia, wa - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 14:55
Served with 523rd Trans Co 54 Bn Charang Valley Vietnam 68-69
Alan Morgan <amorgan892@yahoo.com>
Stow, Oh - Tuesday, October 29, 2002 at 16:44
I realy enjoyed the pictures. Thanks. I was with the 321st Trans adjacent the ammo dump. Dec 67/Dec68. Welcome back. Jerry Bernier
Gerald J. Bernier <gerald.bernier@verizon.net>
Biddeford, ME - Sunday, October 27, 2002 at 18:58
lsgt Clermont E Roberts 321st Trans(Can Do)Long Binh Viatnam June 1968 - June 1969 We enjoyed the site and able to share with my wife and family
Chuck Roberts US Army Retired <croberts@kc.rr.com>
Kansas City, KS - Sunday, October 27, 2002 at 09:27
Thanks Dennis! Will examine. Congratulations.
George Mante
Olympia, WA - Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 15:04:19 (PDT)
i thoroughly enjoy you're site. ty for taking the time to create it. i was not in vietnam my father was. i find it fascinating to learn some of the stuff thaat he went through. i shake you're hand and say thank you for protecting our country.
rob smith <easy262001@yahoo.com>
ms. - Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 07:36
WAY TO GO, Dennis!!!! I will be in to get my copy autographed as soon as I get one. Of course, now I can start hounding you about the next one, right....right? And then the next book and..
Wayne McMahon <wayne.mcmahon@lycos.com>
- Sunday, October 06, 2002 at 10:38
Extremely interesting. I was eligible during Vietnam but had a high draft number. I look forward to more information and insights.
William Mansker <wmansker10@hotmail.com>
Frankfort, IL - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 08:59
If this web site is any indication of your book, I'm going to have to buy the book. Then you'll owe me an autograph! Well done, Dennis! Congrats!!
Josi Brooks <josibrooks2001@yahoo.com>
Lacey, WA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 19:41
Checking this out Dennis. I heard that you had written a book. Congratulations!
Sheila Johnson Teeter <ksakjjr@aol.com>
Rochester, WA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 16:16
Good job you will be rich and famous in know time. Ray
Ray Davis <raydavis@crpud.net>
Rainier, OR - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 10:13
Will look at more of this as timne permits. Did not know you were in a Trans Company. I wore the wheel also Jim
Jim Remy <jimremy@aol.com>
Oly, Wa - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 07:00
Very good Dennis. Almost makes us wish we'd been there - almost! See you in Budd Bay someday.
Tom & Moyra <tom@albacrest.com>
London, - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 01:10
Great site Dennis. I love the photos. The one of TC Hill shows the 151st area which is now a supermarket named CORA, it is huge. So many memories.
Henry Bechtold <bechtold@fast.net>
Pipersville , PA - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 21:10
Congratulations, Mansker. My jealousy knows no bounds; that's the point, isn't it? All right, I'll buy it, I'll buy it! Good work, bwah.
Fidelio Esterhazy <birck@bcillustration.com>
Philthadelphia, PA - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 18:10
I can't wait to read the book. Congratulations Dennis!!
Lisa Zolman <lzolman@yahoo.com>
olympia, wa - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 09:05
disgrundled volunteer: started out a patriot, ended up a Mercenary.
Sgt K.M.Hill <Academyvip@hotmail.com>
Olympia, WA - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 20:24

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