The mess of stationery I carried was a collection of soggy, semi-wet and dried water stains holding strands of paper together. The envelopes were in the best shape because I’d rolled them into a tight tube and used one of my extra trouser springs to hold them together. I released the spring and carefully pulled out an envelope in the very center, unfolding it as I went while making sure the pack of stationery and envelopes stayed guarded under the tipped-up edge of my tilted helmet. I was under my poncho cover, and the wet mud of the river bank wasn’t really all that wet, but still, I fought to maintain as much moisture security as I could cage together. The sun had fallen behind and above the clouds that poured drizzling rain down into the heart of the valley where the company, and what was left of Kilo, had gone down following the debacle of taking out the cliff top snipers. Blowing the drums along with them had been a great positive bonus.
It wasn’t quiet by any means but at least the night would not be owned by the NVA.
James,
Good morning from a hospital bed in Washington DC. I am happy to be here and reading these pages. Had a little issue at work the other day and was admitted due to tightness in the chest and well, all the things associated with a panic attack. I have never ever had one and people have always told me I was to be admired for being able to handle so many stressful things at once.
That is not why I write this. I write this because well I am in awe of the human spirit and brain. Stress, I have no stress, I read what you write and I feel like I am right there with you. I think to myself 17 years old 121 pounds and I am running around Fort Polk in November and December singing I want to go to Vietnam I want to kill Charlie Cong!! Drill Sargent Lopez was there three times the man ride me mercifully all the time. Now I know why. My mos in the army was 82c20. I was once downrange at Fort Carson and called in the 8” gunfire. Looking through the box scope I watched a direct hit on an older piece of something. I remember watching it mash down jump up like spring loaded and then boom it was gone!! That visual coupled with the freight train sound of the round coming in is etched in my memory and has been since the spring of 75.
I thank God that I did not go there and have finally gotten over the shame I used to carry of saying I am a Vietnam era Vet. My Shane was because I did not go but receive the benefits and recognition. So James thank you from the bottom of my heart for writing these books. My passion today is affordable housing for vets. We, my children and I are developing a 27acre community that will focus on homeless vets and or their family. Contact me privately and I will fill you in on the details. I can never do enough for vets because, well I am one!!!
The mixed ‘honor’ of being a Vietnam Veteran.
Predatory behavior volume can be written about that.
I am glad you are here and doing what you are doing.
If you have somehow ended up in the A Shau then you would most probably still be in the A Shau to this day…so to speak.
Thanks for all the work you do for the vets. Panic attacks are nothing to take lightly.
It is usually your system telling you something is wrong but not always were!
You sound like a terrific guy so I hope that is not true. Take the pills!
Semper fi,
Jim
Mr. Strauss,
I am a friend of Luis Urroz, who is responsible for me reading the first 10 days, & the second. I really need the 3rd 10 days …soon…please. Thanks for the engaging & compelling read, I have really enjoyed them.
Bill Fee
Urroz. What a class act that guy was and no doubt still is. One squared away Marine Officer with a sense of humor.
We were too far away at Presley Obannon Hall to know one another back in the Basic School.
I am working away this night on the next book. I can only push so hard.
Not so funny today that that guy in PTSD counseling killed those three women.
The result of PTSD is seldom
violence taken out on other people. It’s usually much more likely to be solo suicidal.
Thanks for the compliment and thanks for mentioning
Urroz.
Semper fi,
Jim
Jim: was happy to have celebrated my 50th university on February 14, 2018. February 14, 1968, I was drafted into the US ARMY in Kansas City, Ks. From there we took a little bus trip to Ft. Leonardwood, Mo. for the start of another life. Got off the bus and immediately gave up all civilian attire. along with a complete new shaved head look. The army did give us each a towel to cover our heads as well as a good used field jacket as we stood outside in line for some 14 hours. It snowed a dab, 26 inches as some of us lucky ones remember. Part of the famous de-moralization process I suppose. Then off to basic and combat engineer training along with the added pleasure of special demolitions training. Then off to the A Shau out of Camp Evans. Hope you forward the last TEN DAYS soon.
Thanks Steve, the next segment of the third ten days will be up tomorrow.
Thanks for anting more and standing by, and for telling us all about some of your own experiences.
Semper fi,
Jim
Lt. thank you for the Second Ten Days. Riveting read! Your experiences are intense.
Appreciate your support, Andrew
Semper fi,
Jim
Good morning Jim.
Back then, as you “whispered into the uncaring and unforgiving jungle in front of you”, you did not have the opportunity to move at your own pace before you “slowly moved into its clutching grasp”.
Be assured that today, from all of us who care, you have that opportunity to take as much needed rest required before pressing forward. Not hard to see the situation getting more intense throughout the remaining days ahead.
God Bless you and all who were there with you as well as all who have joined you on this mission.
God Speed LT. We wait
Thanks, Jack.
It is an interesting and sometimes bumpy journey back.
Semper fi,
Jim
James,
Seems like you have hit a pretty big wall with the memories being dredged up. Wish I could help you in some way, but have no idea how. Anyway, I thought this might help.
James Taylor – You’ve Got a Friend
When you’re down and troubled
And you need a helping hand
And nothing, nothing is going right
Close your eyes and think of me
And soon I will be there
To brighten up even your darkest night
You just call out my name
And you know wherever I am
I’ll come running, oh yeah baby, to see you again
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you’ve got to do is call
And I’ll be there, ye, ye, ye
You’ve got a friend
If the sky above you
Should turn dark and full of clouds
And that old north wind should begin to blow
Keep you head together
And call my name out loud now
Soon you’ll hear me knocking at you door
You just call out my name
And you know wherever I am
I’ll come running, oh yes I will, to see you again
Winter, spring, summer or fall, ye
All you have to do is call
And I’ll be there, ye, ye, yeah
Ain’t it good to know that you’ve got a friend
When people can be so cold
They’ll hurt you, and desert you
And take your soul if you let them, oh yeah, don’t you let ’em now
You just call out my name
And you know wherever I am
I’ll come running to see you again, oh baby, don’t you know
Winter, spring, summer or fall
Hey now, all you have to do is call
And I’ll be there, yes I will
You’ve got a friend
You’ve got a friend, yeah
Ain’t it good to know you’ve got a friend
Ain’t it good to know you’ve got a friend
Oh, ye yeah, you’ve got a friend
One of my favorites, thanks, Robert.
Semper fi,
Jim
1971 James Taylor – You’ve Got a Friend
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2o7n27Dw9w
Looking forward to the next page. Thank you for expressing the depths of what you were going through, and are still going through. As in most traumatic events, the physical wounds are most easily healed, the mental/emotional wounds tend to linger. Stay strong, and keep writing…these chronicles are a great read!
Sorry so long in response.
Thank you for your comment.
It is a bumpy road for sure.
Semper fi,
Jim
James, are you waiting until after I die before writing the next chapter? What is going on with you?
Well, I am waiting for you to die, but not with smiles or enthusiasm. And the story flows, like the Bong Song, sometimes at flood and sometimes
at a trickle, although I never saw the trickle times. I apologize but I am here. No excuses.
Your friend
Semper fi,
Jim
Take your time Sir – can not imagine how difficult this is to write
… at your own pace. Be Well
Thank you, Dan.
Semper fi,
Jim
Thank you Lt. James for a good read. Hope you stay well and let the healing contenue. All of us that have seen combat carry some baggage mine is lighter than yours. Don
You are most welcome Don. Thanks for the support and the compliment.
Semper fi,
Jim
Lt. I cannot begin to comprehend the depths of emotion that hammered you when you wrote that 22 on your letter. Thank you so much for sharing that.
God bless and guide you
Glenn.
Thanks for thinking about me. Now to get oriented to finish the next segment…
Semper fi,
Jim
The suspence to each new chapter keeps building each time. Know this had to be a tough one to write. I do feel you are being your own worst critic on your time there. Keep up the great work and hope it helps to give you more peace of mind.
Got the 2nd book and the wife is about done with it so I can read it LOL. Left a review as well. Think picked up a couple more readers last week.
I like that part about the wife. Thanks for that and more.
Semper fi,
Jim
LT , We shot a few fire missions that had bad dope figured up by our FDC. I was on the logarithms. Not sure if we hurt anyone either. That WP air burst killed the NVA too. Remember that!!
Cpl Blair W/Y 1/11 1970
Thanks David. I do think about that and it helps.
And the compliment too…
Semper fi,
Jim
“I could still see the Marine Corps symbols in the poor light. They were right there in front of my face, but I knew down to my core, to the depth of my soul that I was not a real Marine.”
I wonder if every Marine Corps officer has those thoughts at one time or another. I would think as a “Grunt” who experienced combat, one would never doubt if they were a “Real Marine”. I was an airwing marine who was never down in the trenches with my ground pounding compatriots and my cover was off to those guys who (in my mind) were the “Real Marines”
Maybe there is nothing more powerful in the forming of a leader of men then self-doubt.
Self-doubt made me try harder.
Made me want to survive because I might someday be that real Marine I had made up in my mind.
That transfers over in civilian life to being a ‘real man’ or woman.
I have endeavored to be that although it is as challenging here in the real world as it was in that horrid world.
Thanks for the depth of your comment and your support in making it.
Semper fi,
Jim
A badly broken, poorly set leg left me unable to pass the physical in 1970. I lucked into a career in broadcasting and news and I participated in a project in the late 80’s recording Vietnam Veterans and their stories. Sadly, the tapes were lost in a fire, but their combat stories stayed with me. I just wanted to tell you, Sir, that your account of your time in Vietnam is the single most compelling account I have ever encountered. You’re laying your soul bare one chapter at a time and you have my undying admiration for being willing to do so. God bless you Lieutenant Strauss and all who served. And, Junior, I’m looking forward to the next chapter.
Thanks ever so much Joren. Means a lot to me to read your words…and try to live up to them.
Semper fi,
Jim
Always excited to see a new illustration accompanying a new segment of your part in history.Not many things take precedent before a new installment is read and processed.Till next time,regards——
Thanks Mark,
Semper fi,
Jim
A powerful chapter, so reveling, strong emotions, scary. Don’t know what else to say.
You said it.
Thanks, JT
Semper fi,
Jim
I have enjoyed your writing. It forces me to remember my US Army service. I was scheduled for an OCS Armor class to begin in November 1967 at Ft Knox. A clerical error sent me on another path and I ended up at the USARV Hqs in Long Binh, RVN instead.
Looking back with the knowledge I have gained from history I probably would have been a very poor 22 year-old combat leader.
May the Lord comfort you and those who served with you.
Thanks Ron, but I never felt like a very good combat leader and I still have my doubts.
Sort of like being the pilot of an airliner about to crash. There is one really important life to save
and it does not belong to any of the passengers or other crew!
Thanks for the neat comment…
Semper fi,
Jim
I was assigned to the 1st Inf div & was pulled out to USARV CAS/MEDEVAC July 67 –July 68 !! I guess it was because of my Ft Worth address as the colonel had that address also !! Worked w/MACV also !! Lucky I was !!
Yes, the Colonel saved your life, or at least your psychology.
How such things made all the difference over there.
If you knew the right person or almost anybody, then you stayed in the rear with the gear,
never having to comprehend or deal with what was going on only a few kilometers away…
where the unlucky and walking dead wandered the mountains and valleys…
Semper fi,
Jim
And your name is Tex. Special to me.
Still managed to get hit 4 times !! During TET in the ammonia dump ! Ambushes on runs to Saigon & the morgue almost daily !! Price of metall on my eye off a chopper or bullet !! Nothing serious but not fun !! I remember the segment w/Tex !! I was also called Cowboy
How strangely bizarre that is. Thanks for coming in on this and adding even more mystery.
Semper fi,
Jim
Well….that moment in time finally arrived….You, the lowly, insignificant boot “brown bar” Newby Lt….has finally decided that enough was enough….You have taken and given everything you have to give…and despite it all, you are still there…and now “Battalion” is trying to deal with you personally…even if it’s just to give more crazy, un believable ‘orders’….and you have defied them…..””what are they going to do?…Shave my head and send me to Nam?””…fuk em…You are already there…and the only thing you hope to do is ‘be there’ for ‘one more’ tomorrow morning morning and the next….with as many of your Marines as possible…You are learning LT…..day by day, minute by minute.. Semper Fi….
Yes, Larry, as you will recall, the learning curve was not steep. It was straight up. And any deviation was to fail to be there for resupply in anything but a body bag.
Thanks for the in depth comment you have become so known for (at least to me). Semper fi,
Jim
Thanks for another riveting, take you there read LT. I did 24 years, but in another branch and post Vietnam era. I truly appreciate your insight on how it was. I look forward to the rest of the “30 Days”, and your story on recovery/healing at Pendleton & beyond (I think you’ve said you are going to tell that story too).
Thank you, Jim,
I really appreciate everyone’s support.
Semper fi,
Jim
I’ve just started reading TDHS The Second Ten Days. It is really hard to stop reading but that’s OK I can rest tomorrow.
I know I’ve read it before online but, reading the book is much better.
Words can barely describe my appreciation of your service to our nation and your gut-wrenching sacrifice in relating those experiences.
Thanks Mike. The service thing was a bit mixed. Surviving for my nation might be a better description!
Glad you like the writing and the way I’ve gone about putting it all down.
Semper fi,
Jim
With all due respects to your personal feelings one third of all the deaths in Nam were caused by friendly fire. In 1971 outside of Camp Evans I personally retrieved what was left of two platoons from the 101st airborne who had set up a ndp outside of the camp ,just klicks away.It wasn’t pretty but it happens in war.You did what you thought was right, you tried. It wasn’t intentionl it was your job. Please try to let it go. We who were there understand. God blesses, he also forgives.
Once again, thank-you for sharing your experience.
As you endeavor to complete the task of finishing the last ten days, know that many are thinking of you and all that you and your brothers have sacrificed for others.
Thanks Glenn, the support of you guys means everything…
Semper fi,
Jim
I’ve really enjoyed reading all of this work. When I was ten, I thought I’d have to go someday, but, as I’m about five years younger than “Fusner,” I didn’t have to. Like you, my father said very little but the few bits about jungle fighting in New Guinea and the Philippines sounded horrific. And similar. And, even in his seventies, he sometimes killed people in nightmares.
Thanks Christopher. I am sorry about your Dad but I sure do understand the combat return kind of thing.
Thanks for writing what you wrote on here. Not easy to put some things into print sometimes…
Semper fi,
Jim
I also had to disobey a direct order from my company xo. It wasn’t face to face so I didn’t consider it direct. When he tried to relieve me on the spot I wouldn’t let him speak to anyone else. Ten minutes I have the battalion commander on the phone. Told him to save his words till morning when I would fix the problem and if he wanted to talk about it I could pick him up at our heliport at 7:30 A M. He showed up at 7:30 with the lieutenant and sargeant major. When the dust settled the battalion commander thanked me and never heard from the xo again. He got re- assigned.
Wow, you got lucky with that one. It’s one thing to know you aren’t likely to live anyway, when going directly against higher officers in the Corps, and
quite another when you are facing rather obvious court martial or worse…nice work.
Semper fi,
Jim
I was at the forward Battalion TOC in Phu Loc (aprox. 20 months in country) when a Major (whose job I was doing) told be to order troops to move at night. After a little conversation he told me I was relieved from duty. Whistle in the land line to Phu Bia – 30 minutes later there was a helicopter hovering over the heliport (this was way after 0 dark). Call from Phu Bia he left and I stayed. Win for the Boonie Rats lose for REMF who go assigned to a field position.
Sometimes there was luck to be considered Bob, in fact, almost all the time under such extreme duress.
thanks for writing about your own life on here.
Semper fi,
Jim
Hey LT, I’m old and forgetful…could you use the words “east, west, north and south” when talking about making crossings of the river? There have been so many crossings (or at least it seems to me, perhaps I’m more confused than I thought?) that I forget where you are. I need to say I have been glued to the computer reading as much as possible when I am able. I do look fwd to reading the rest of the trilogy and other books of yours. Thank you for all you do for the invisible faces of war. Far East 1959-63, SEMPER FI!
It should be simple but I don’t always get everything right. The country of Vietnam runs north and south, as does Laos to the west of it.
The ocean is to the east beyond intervening mountain ranges. Upon occasion I have gotten confused in my own mind and given the wrong direction (east and west being the
culprits here). Sorry.
Semper fi, and thanks a lot for liking the work…
Jim
Just freaking amazing! Ina shitty war. But then they all are . Still hold with my original theory. Your Bn CO WAS AN IDIOT!
There have been times when that thought was Top of Mind.
Thanks for your support,
Semper fi,
Jim
What a difficult episode for you to remember and relive. For the first time I could not detect any optimism in your actions or mindset. What I see in you is someone who wants to give up, but, there is no quit in you. For that I am thankful that you and your company were so … I know there is nothing I could say that could convey what I wish I could say. Thank you for being on that wall protecting me and mine. You deserve so much more than your country ever gave you back.
Thanks Rob for the concern and the compliment and the care.
That all means a whole lot to me and helps me continue.
Semper fi,
Jim
Thank you sir. Another great read and I hope you are able to finish. It cant be easy.
Three paragraphs before your letter home “It still had the long filter still on it.” Drop the 2nd still?
Thanks Phil, for the compliment and the editorial help.
Semper fi,
Jim
I have been reading your chapters since the fall of 2016 and feel I should be applauding your efforts after every installment. Your latest chapter is simply stunning — and no doubt must have been exceptionally difficult for you to share. But thanks for sharing, and please try to press on as best you can. I’m old to remember the angst in the U.S the war created, but was young enough back then that I didn’t have to worry about being drafted. As I’ve said throughout my adult life — it was a war we should have never been in. What a waste of more than 58,000 lives. Thank you for your service, thank you for your writing and may God bless you.
These wars that we should not be in, as evidenced by Vietnam. Why are we in them when it is pretty evident that they are a waste of everything?
You decide. I understand but this is the kind of stuff you have to look at and figure out for yourself.
Semper fi,
Jim
“With some digging with E-Tools, a decent area could be dug out of the base, providing cover from the never-ending rain, the ever-present animal predators, and waiting along the bottom confines of any jungle terrain.”
This is little confusing to me. Missing some words or need to move “and” to right after “rain,” and remove the comma after “predators” ?
Sad to lose 22 men but the result could have been worse if the artillery fire did not take place. Some decision on what is the right thing to is tough and you can never stop second guessing yourself but you have to make the best decision at the time and learn to live with it.
Yes, time is a healing element but does not heal all, and we our own worst enemy, or best friend,
when it comes to remembering shit so we don’t repeat the same mistake…although it was unlikely I was ever going into that kind of
combat cauldron willingly again…
Semper fi,
Jim
Damn, can’t you catch even a small break!
Thanks for this installment. Will you ever put this into one book or just the three?
Thanks, Jerry,
It would be too long to be in One Volume in print.
We may publish a One Volume digital version after completion of Third Ten Days.
Semper fi,
Jim
Afternoon James, UPS just arrived, My box of books has arrived, 5 of the second installment, One for Me, 3 for fellow vets, and 1 for the VA library.
Nothing but compliments from those who read and understand, Bow just the wait in the 3rd book…..
Drive On!….. Drive On!
Semper Fi/This We Defend Bob
As always,
Thank you, Robert, for your continued support.
Semper fi,
Jim
Mr. Strauss: This segment really brought home how difficult your memories of that time must be. Blessings to you, Sir.
Thank you, EJ.
It may become even tougher as we move toward the end.
semper fi,
Jim
While I think this is the most painful episode I have read, it is also the best. I will never know what it is like to go through the hell you men went through. The thought of leading men in combat….just incomprehensible to me.
Thanks e. Means a lot to hear from non-combatants reading the material too. I wonder how the general public would find the work
if it were ever to reach them. Of course, getting that kind of exposure is limited to a very very few and I’m not likely to be one of them,
no matter what the writing.
Thanks for the comment.
Semper fi,
Jim
I have my teenage sons read your story and I read them many of the comments. I don’t like the war video games they and all their friends play. I want them to know that this is what war really is.
Interesting response. I had never considered the screwy macho violence of those games, where killing is always done to the evil and in outraged righteousness…of
which there is absolutely none in real combat. I wonder how the boys might react.
Thanks a lot.
Semper fi,
Jim
I worked for years with a guy that had been an Army Corpsman. Back in eighties he was telling me how his two teenage boys loved the Rambo movies. They had their Rambo knives and built booby traps in the woods, until their mom fell in one and John put the kibosh to that. One day, one of them had cut himself pretty bad and told John he needed to go to the doctor. John said, “Well, just get the fishing line out of your Rambo knife and sew it up”
The kid said, “But Dad, this really hurts!”
John said, “That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you!”
John said, “You know Steve, I think I finally got through to him….that shit really hurts!”
Interesting story. Physical pain is nothing to sneer at when it comes in massive doses and at critical times
when something else has to be accomplished to survive.
The whole Rambo narrative is a tough one to swallow and I was pretty tough on the author when I met him.
But it is his only work of public recognition and merit so what is he supposed to do?
Semper fi,
Jim
In your letter home in the second line ” I drink water from resupply containers or that frequently flows down off my”, should it be “or that that”?
Thanks, Michael.
Noted and corrected.
Semper fi,
Jim
Wow!I don’t know how you can even concentrate on what to do and when to do it under that kind of stress. Maybe Dad saved my life by not signing the papers when I was 17. I’d never have made it through that s**t. Just reading it has my guts balled up.i know dad carried everything from the Canal to Peleliu his whole life but it did seem to ease up in his later life. I admire your grit and you are a helluva good writer but I may take up smoking again while reading these.
Thanks for the multiple compliments written into your comment Laddie. I have no idea how I made it through or function for some of that time.
God was there somewhere but I’m not sure where or when, although I sure think of it a lot more now than I did then.
Semper fi,
Jim
My queezy stomach premonition was justified in waiting out the publication of this installment. The prolonged difficulty you had to endure putting this horrific memory back into the light of day is fully understood. No amount of passing time or “shit happens in war” explanations will erase the “talons in the heart” feeling of guilt and remorse over this loss of life. We, all of us doggedly following you through this quagmire of pain, know that you are not writing any of this to curry sympathy or even understanding. We know you are writing it because you must.
Because I must. Exactly John. And now, additionally, for those who were in similar circumstance and thought they were in it alone.
Thanks for you depth of understanding and your capability in writing it on here…
Semper fi,
Jim
Jim! riveting as always. Hard for the casual reader to understand the agony a leader goes through of losing groups of men and to be told by the rear to keep going when you know their boots have never had the pleasure to trod the Aw Shit. One quick one, your direction of being west of Laos. Semper Fi Brother.
Thank you, Al
Knowing that Laos is west of Vietnam I just fixated on the wrong direction.
Corrected
You mention 12th Marines twice. That’s an artillery Battalion. I don’t think they would be used as a grunt unit. Maybe 9th Marines or some other grunt unit but not 12th.
Funny how memory works Al. Yes, I checked the Internet and you are correct in every regard.
Why do I remember the 12th Marines when it could not have been them.
I don’t know. I hope I am not as inaccurate on other parts.
I don’t feel right slipping into who it might really have been
because that seems weird too…
Thanks for the comment and the correction…
Semper fi,
Jim
James, didn’t you train on artillery in officer training? If so, would it not have been with the 12th Marine battalion?
Yes, correct. Bringing many of these details up is a challenge at times
For your consideration, but not intended as specific correction:(Source acknowledgement Real Clear Defense) This time period is a close match for the actions described. “In early 1969, the 1st battalion, as part of the larger 9th Marine Regiment, launched Operation Dewey Canyon, the last major Marine Corps operation in Vietnam. During this time the Marines swept through the NVA controlled A Shau valley and other areas near the DMZ. In a heroic action on February 22, 1968, then-Lt. Wesley Fox earned the Medal of Honor. The Marines suffered over 1,000 casualties during the operation. The entire regiment was awarded a Presidential Unit Citation for their extraordinary heroism during Operation Dewey Canyon.”
Respectfully submitted, John
Thanks John for the history lesson. You are right about Dewey Canyon, a great failure of a Marine campaign that was treated as a success.
There was no way any regiment was going to handle the totality of emplacements, tunnels and trained and experienced thousands of NVA inhabiting the area.
Supporting fires could not reach much of the southern confines where they were congregated. I don’t know what happened on Dewey, as I was not there for that.
But I know what happened to us and every other allied unit that ran right into he bloody meat grinder the A Shau became.
Thank you for being what and who you are,
Semper fi,
Jim
The A Shau Valley is EAST of the Laotian border, not WEST.
Look at a globe. Look north from the A Shau, and follow that line up to the North Pole.
Now look left. Laos is between the U.S. across the ocean and the A Shau, which runs north and south.
You will be looking West from the A Shau, across the long country of Laos, which also runs north and south. Laos is West of where the A Shau runs north and south. All approximately, of course.
Semper fi,
Jim
What a time in a man life not knowing if he is going to live or die. One of the things that got me through was 23rd Psalm, as I walk point I would say to myself over and over as much as I could remember it. Thanks for letting it all hang out. Semper Fi.
thanks for the support Walter and the compliment in giving it…
Semper fi,
Jim
James, thank you for allowing others to see the pain of surviving combat and the weight of the guilt for our actions, I was lucky that none of my guys died by my hands during my tour in FDC or FAC duties, I feel for you brother, l know the weight of having to do what we do is so overwhelming sometimes and the effects will always be with you. I still think of walking a pattern thru one off my ambush teams that were out of position or the short or long rounds that just happened, shit just happens , we just got to go on, thanks again LT.
Yes, we do just go on Felix, those of us who can, those of us still here to do so.
In the telling is the price of ‘just going on’ I believe, a price that is never really understood by
those who were not so exposed.
Semper fi, and thanks,
Jim
Another gripping chapter.
Possible correction – “The A Shau wasn’t on the map but I knew it was located just a bit west of the Laos border…”. Isn’t it a little east of the Laos Border?
The A Shau is, indeed, east of the Laos border. So hard to get it all right now without copious research,
which I should get better at….thanks for the help.
Semper fi,
Jim
East of the Laos border?
James,you about had me crying on this gut wrenching segment.With that much pressure and you still had your shit together,amazing . Still had a plan ,right or wrong . Semper Fi
Thank you, Roger
Semper fi,
Jim
I have never, ever, read the like. God Bless you, and all who wake up at o-dark, alert.
Thank you for your support, Bruce.
Appreciate your sharing with those who might like this story.
Semper fi,
Jim
Thank you good Captian. God Bless
Jim… Did you post an episode between the January 7, 2018 story and this January 22 episode? A whole bunch of shit seems to have happened (for example, the 22 KIA). Seems to be a story-telling gap.
No, did not post a segment between the two dates.
The action at end of Third Part should have set the stage for Twentieth Night.
Semper fi,
Jim
http://oldspooksandspies.org/Photos/Cotts/Scan1618.jpg
Here’s Snoopy on the side of an Air Force O-1 Bird dog FAC
Taken at An Loc airstrip Binh Long Province III Corps Apr 67
Use it if you wish.
Wow. That must have been hard to write. Some say that in the grand scheme of things everything is as it should be. Difficult to see from our perspective. You did your best with as much heart as you could bring. It is demonstrated in your thoughts and actions. That is all that can be asked of anyone. …and you far more than most. Be well.
FWIW the book “Flags of our Fathers” lays to rest any myth about those who raised the (second) flag at Iwo Jima.
Thanks a lot for the photo Dan. I cut and pasted and will send to Chuck to figure out how we use it.
Thanks for the concern and care in your comment.
Semper fi,
Jim
Any decision is better than no decision! Mr Strauss.. I’ve been following you since day one ( in writing). Like Patton said to Bradley at Sicily … its time to think of how many casualties we’d have if we were still slugging it out in the mountains… in reference to his push to Messina . Any decision is better than no decision . I don’t see this as on you and you alone. I’m looking more toward who put you in this position.
Relativity. Yes, and more. How many will die if these few don’t die? That’s a whole lot to do with the very definition of war.
Thanks for the comment and what you said in the open here…
Semper fi,
Jim
Jim—-Were they using the 12th Marines as grunts at that time or just didn’t have any more Marine available?Don’t have to answer on here just wondering.
I don’t know Ray. I remember the 12th but I could have been wrong with memory. The guys on here say it had to be the 9th because the
12th was artillery. I’m old!
Semper fi,
Jim
“No, sir. I’m ready to stand relieved, sir.”
Bluff worked and the Colonel got bamboozled by junior!!
Outstanding !!
I really like the way junior can change his outlook once he lays out a artillery plan. Just a thought.
Thanks again for keeping us on the edge of our seats James
SEMPER Fi
He wasn’t bamboozled, although I do like that word. Like the rest of us he was simply in a position
where he had not control and I knew it. Thanks for being kind…
Semper fi,
Jim
The reality of your conflicts in writing the Twentieth Night is understood completely. Not many can convey reality with such an impact.
Semper fi
It is becoming more difficult to bring some of this to the front of mind awareness.
Thanks for your support.
Semper fi,
Jim
Wow, I don’t look for any problem or mistakes in what you have said as I know what you mean and if there is something wrong I don’t even realize it as I am mesmerized by what you went through and what stayed with you afterward and I think is still with you!! I was our Como’s radio man, his choice as I was a 2533 radio code person. I got out of the Marine Corps when they were sending people over there from my company 2-3-3 com. I also had my cousin over there as a Marine heli gunner, shot down twice with burs both tomes, the last time very badly 89% . He had a lot of problems until about a year and a half ago when he took his own life. I do understand a little more now when I read your story in fact I have contacted his sister and have tried to get her to read about Vietnam.Thanks for your service and your writing!!
Sorry about your cousin Roger. Really. So neat to hear that my story may be of some help to anyone who’s suffered following this awful war.
Semper fi,
Jim
I am the mother of three young men. I have always been terrified at the thought of any of them having to go to war, as my Father, Father in law, and Uncles did. However if they did, and if they were killed, I would not blame the men they were fighting along side of, such as yourself. In the chaos of war anything can happen. I blame the governments that do the things they do to send our young men and women into dangerous places and situations. That is the truth of a loving mother’s heart.
thank you KT for commenting on here and for what you said. You are kind. And truthful.
The biggest problem is letting go of those around you and not accusing yourself. We have the strangest of
emotions about such things.
Semper fi, Mom…
Jim
Jim,
Please don’t worry about how fast the segments are coming. I am a patient man even though I read them as soon as they arrive. The emotional load is heavy, and you DO have a personal life to accomplish as well. i appreciate the fact you are making this available, no matter what the timetable.
Keep up the good work sir!
Tim
Of course I worry about the time. I must remain on top of it all or lose my way.
At least the way I see it now.
Thanks for the concern and for the expressions of care, not to mention the compliment in your content.
Semper fi,
Jim
West of the Laos boarder?
You caught it also. Corrected.
My mind was set on fact Laos is and always will be West of Vietnam.
Semper fi,
Jim
Gunny should check his timeline. I don’t think Lucy was pulling the football that early. But I am old and Peanuts is at the bottom of my memory. Great writing otherwise.
Lucy started pulling the football back in the forties, according to the Internet. In 1953 Lucy turns the event into a rather sadistic game, and on we go.
thanks for the comment,
Semper fi,
Jim
Great read again Jim…I can’t imagine what you felt over the loss of your men…but as the Gunny said, no one was better at calling in artillery than you…and you saved the majority of the two companies…and your mission was survival first and foremost…once again you put us right there with you…I still think you were an outstanding leader and I would follow you anywhere…forge ahead my friend
Thanks so much Mark.
I don’t think you can lose guys like that in combat without terrible feelings overcoming you eventually.
At the time it seemed like I could just handle it and move on, and I did,
until I woke up night after night in the hospital.
I needed most of the morphine in those early months not for physical
but for the mental agony.
Thanks for the encouragement and care…
Semper fi,
Jim
“What about battalion?” the Gunny asked. “And last time digging into the cliff only served us for a very short time.” the Gunny.
* missing word… “said” the Gunny
Noted and corrected. Thanks, Bob.
Semper fi
Jim
Now may, dang thumbs!
No problem, Bob…
Semper fi,
Jim
“I motioned for Fusner for the radio, not wanting to ask the Gunny if Tank as (WAS) among the wounded or the dead. I knew there would be no move to save me, night or otherwise.”
Semper Fidelis.
Thanks for the sharp eyes, Dennis.
Semper fi,
Jim
This was truly one of the most heart breaking chapters. The pain you were feeling from the losses must have been truly overwhelming to the nth degree. I can only imagine the mental scar you must still carry to this day. Semper Fi my brother in arms
Thanks Richard. I am okay. Yes, the memories are revived to a degree I would never have believed, plus
the accuracy and detail of them shock me as I write…
Thanks for pointing out how tough it can be…
Semper fi,
Jim
J S.,
Good read! I was an FO attached to A/3/39Inf 9th ID from late July to early October of 1968. We were in the Mekong delta south of Siagon. The delta being very flat, meant that there was very little elevation deviation between the firing battery and the target. If I remember correctly, elevation difference was called SITE.
My heart bleeds for you.
Yes, Jim, elevation is close enough. Line of site is the result of angle of site calculations. The elevation of the tube of the howitzer is site, not necessarily the elevator of the land wherein
the howitzer is placed or the target is located. Neat comment and conclusions….
Semper fi,
Jim
Wouldn’t the valley have been East of Laos instead of west?
You and so many other astute readers are correct.
My mind was focused on fact Laos is West of Vietnam and it was late at night,
as usual for writing.
Semper fi,
Jim
You are a good man. It would have been an honor to have served with you.
Thank you very much. Sometimes I am not so sure. We are all so flawed in so many ways.
Trying to hold it all together, redeem those things gone wrong and then get better…that’s living.
Semper fi,
Jim
Loving it Jim. You tell a real good past happening…….
Jim F
Thank you, Jim
Semper fi,
Jim
This puts your short post of a couple days ago in perspective.
This is bringing back things you have tried to bury in your mind for all these years. I have talked with many vets over the years and have heard stories from wars of ww2 to present. A common subject is that friendly fire happens, in every war.
In every case, someone has to live with the consequences for the rest of their time. I know I would have had a very hard time dealing with the loss of so many men.
I can’t say what is right or wrong with what happened. I don’t think anyone could. Telling your story has to help heal the wounds for you and all the others with similar history.
My uncle was part of the ww2 pacific war planning group. He help plan every invasion of the pacific war. He was at every invasion. Invading japan was to have 500k wounded and 500k dead in the first 30 days. Luckily that invasion wasn’t necessary.
I was the only person he ever told his story to. Not even his wife or daughter. It would have gone to his death if I hadn’t asked one day. What a loss that would have been. So many who served have not told their stories.
I am thankful to you for sharing yours. I hope you find the strength to continue telling your story.
I thank you for your service.
Thanks Gary, the motivation can be tough to keep focused on but I am hard at it to continue.
Thanks for the help, which your comment certainly is…
Semper fi,
Jim
I am captivated by this story. As a Huey Crew Chief operating in the Ashau and points north and east, I vividly recall the area. Laos is to the west of the valley and most of our firebases were to the east. Minor comments that don’t impact the story line. Good writing, please keep it up.
Thanks John. I much appreciate the compliment and also the fact that you were there and know the terrain.
I so longed to be up in the cooler air above and going back to anywhere! Thanks for helping out over there…
Semper fi,
Jim
“Loud.” Such an inadequate word. I will send you a pic of a T-72 with a hole in it. The muzzle of the Marine Corps M-1 that made that hole was about 20 meters from my crane. With out a doubt, that was the loudest noise I have ever heard. That’s a Chi-Com 51 on my knee.
When I read this great piece of work, my pulse quickens.
Some of the things you say bring things out of the dark that I thought were forever forgotten, Thankfully, they were not. At 72, almost 73, the past, all of it, is a valuable part of my life.
Thank you Brother. Looking forward to the part where you get home.
We don’t really forget this stuff or parts of it that you and others might have lived too.
We suppress it. Those survival skills to get through are totally unusable back home…
and thank God…
Semper fi,
Jim
FYI:
*With 22 dead is the word “survivors” the word you want to use here? I wanted to write letters home to all the survivors, but how could I write twenty-two letters and how many on top of that for the badly wounded.
*I think here you are referring to your quad map and called it artillery? I pulled out my artillery one to twenty-five thousand and oriented it easily because the direction of the valley extended almost exactly from the north down to the south.
*Did you mean to use “night” or “right” in the 2nd sentence: I motioned for Fusner for the radio, not wanting to ask the Gunny if Tank as among the wounded or the dead. I knew there would be no move to save me, night or otherwise.
*See “the Gunny”, last two words in sentence appear to be dangling like you were going to add something: “What about battalion?” the Gunny asked. “And last time digging into the cliff only served us for a very short time.” the Gunny.
Thanks for being part of the editing team. You guys are all I have.
Semper fi,
Jim
Thank you for writing this. I can imagine the nightmares and emotional cost this has on you dredging up these buried memories.
it seems the only way to survive is to ride the fine edge of insanity.
That chapter took great courage LT. Thank you….
Thanks Al, means a lot to me to have you write that on here…
Semper fi,
Jim
Wow
4th sentence of the paragraph about the Iwo Jima thing !! Mat should probably map !! What a mess y’all are in !! Thanks for all you do !! 2nd book ordered !!
Thanks for the editing help. You guys are all I have!
Semper fi,
Jim
excellent! I was thrilled to see the Snoopy picture and realize a new installment was here!
couple of edit suggestions: para 1 ‘above the clouds that that” delete one that.
para 1 after the letter home box, “it had a small mat’ (map)
para 19 after the letter home box,”Gunny if Tank (w)as among
Thanks to you and so many others the corrections are made.
Semper fi,
jim
Your telling a story that rips at every Vets heart And I don’t give a fuck if something is misspelled or an error in punctuation like these grammar Nazis do. They must have been REMF’s.
Thank you Daniel for your continued support.
Stay warm this week.
Semper fi,
Jim
Well said
Thanks, as usual, Bob…
Semper fi,
Jim
I now see why this chapter was so hard for you to write. I hope getting through this has helped to heal any self doubt you may have kept harbored inside. I haven’t ever been in your shoes, thankfully, and I don’t pretend to know what I or anyone else can say to make it all go away, but I wish I did, for you and all who have been where you were. May others heal through your pain and may that ease your pain, knowing you have helped so many.
Thanks, Tom, and I found this comment after some searching.
Very nice, and very touching. Thanks for caring and for writing about it on here.
Times are better, although going back in my mind is both hard (the emotions) but also a bit curative.
I was unaware that I had not forgotten most of it.
That it all comes back in such detail with almost no reference has astounded me more than anyone here…
which means it has been inside all this time.
And probably influencing more of my life than I ever considered, before now.
Semper fi,
Jim
Those things that you live through in fear, you never forget as the subconscious has a way of reminding you of the danger you lived through.
Thank you for your support, Thomas.
Staying on top of these comments is sometimes a slow process.
Thanks also for your patience.
Semper fi,
Jim
Awesome as always. Minor note… “The sun had fallen behind and above the clouds that that poured” probably only one “that”?
Thanks,
Noted and corrected.
Semper fi,
Jim
Was in Hué in Tet I know the frustration and heartbreak
Man, you were in the shit too, especially right after Tet there.
Thanks for writing in and liking the work…
Semper fi,
Jim
12th Marines? Artillery Regiment?
Caught it and fixed.
Heart wrenching, gut churning , action… I was so fortunate to only have seen the veterans return .altough I had to deal with many , I knew something horrible had effected them .. now I know..
Part of what I am doing is trying to give men and women who did not go an idea about why we came home so screwed up in many circumstances.
Thanks or illustrating that point and also for the compliment…
Semper fi,
Jim
James, I am so touched by your writing. The use of the literary device of telling the story in two ways–one way, for you and another more gentle way in letters to your wife, the acuity of your memories, your eye for detail, facility with language, the heart-beat rhythms of your sentences, and use of evocative symbols, combine to not only effectively “tell” a story that needs to be told, but also to “show” a story that brings the reader right into the midst of the physical, emotional, moral, and political chaos of that time. For 20 years, I’d taught “All Quiet on the Western Front” to 11th grade English students in the San Francisco Bay Area. Their term project was to interview a Viet Nam vet from the Menlo Park or Palo Alto VAs. Most of the vets were reluctant at first, but some ended up volunteering to be interviewed again each year. Eventually, a few even felt comfortable enough to be transported to my classroom to speak with my students. They each mentioned how their lives had be positively affected by being interviewed by a 16-year old. And this sentiment was echoed by each student. It was an extraordinary project with extraordinary ramifications for the vets, my students, and for me. Thank you for your courage and your service then–and now, in writing about it. Best wishes for your well-being and your success–Joanne
Thank you, Joanne. I am unaccustomed to reading a review that is this professionally written,
and, I am equally taken aback by the high praise and compliment of your thoughts. Maybe your first sentence is the most penetrating.
Touched is an intimate word. That I have been able to effectively communicate the reality of such an unreal and unbelievable
experience, shared by so many (now I find that out, not before) has been so very revealing to discover.
I have been writing novels and other literary work for years but never approached the kind of in-depth response
I have received in reaction to these volumes on Vietnam.
I have personally answered almost every one of the over twelve thousand comments.
As here.
Thank you for taking the time and for writing such neat things about the work, and I, in such a public forum.
Semper fi,
Jim
Great writing and well worth the wait!
Wow.
Tough and hard chapter.
Keep em coming.
We are there with you digging in.
Thanks Walt, I count on you guys more than you might guess…
Semper fi,
Jim
Outstanding as always.from a old 0311. Semper fi.
Thanks a lot Daniel. The compliments from guys who were really out there are unbelievably satisfying…
Semper fi,
Jim
Holy crap, LT. Caught me off guard with this one. Gut churning words out of an abyss. I am going to look back and see if I missed something. Damned mess the Company is in and it just got worse, but I see in your comm with the Six, your recent days has put some piss in Battilions vinegar. We are now seeing a Company Commander, a combat veteran, doing what he can to avoid putting his Command in any more unnecessary danger. P. J.
Not many catch you off guard, you old detective grade scamp. Thanks for the observant compliment…
Semper fi,
Jim
I really had to stop reading. I didn’t want to spoil the anticipation of the book itself. It was cold turkey….
Can’t wait for the book
Thanks for the high compliment Lewis! Much appreciate and helps keep me going…
Semper fi,
Jim
James I have no idea how you remained sane and you still have ten days to go, I get anxiety just reading what you men went through. What method did you use to get through the unknown and terrifying times.
I was not sane. Read between the lines. I was looney as all hell. Frightened to death and lost down the rabbit hole.
Leeches as friends. Come on! Smoking but not smoking. Eating Ham and Mothers and liking them…
Semper fi,
Jim
PS I am better now, I think…
Those methods by no means prove you were not sane they are adjustments to your situation. You don’t give yourself enough credit for how you handled the situation you were in. Look at how our colleges handle snowflakes because someone said something they didn’t agree with. Throw those pampered children into a mess like what you men went through and you would truly see insane.
Thanks again for sharing your thoughts, Frank.
Semper fi,
Jim
7th paragraph below the letter home: “That’s why your Junior.” …s/b you’re Junior.
Thank you, Ray.
Noted and corrected
Semper fi,
Jim
Now I can see why it takes so long to write a day, unbelievable what you have gone through so far, know nothing but bad is coming up too. As we get closer to TET my respect for you and your Marines continues to grow. As I said you guys saved our butts more than once. Be safe.
Thanks Pete. It was our pleasure, or something like that! Appreciate the thanks and the support on here…
Semper fi,
Jim
I can feel the struggle you had to remember and write this chapter. Decisions we make in life have a ripple effect but none as immediate as when lives hang in the balance. You have our support LT.
Too true Bob. Tough one, but then they have kind of been getting that way.
Thanks for the support and understanding…
Semper fi,
Jim
WHOA is all I can say, You never catch a break. I was Navy Aircrew flew in and out of various bases on resupply and evacuation of wounded and deceased. I was there 1965- to Mid 67 ,then came back with an attack Squadron from 67-68. I’ve been following you though every chapter. I realize how hard reliving this experience id for you. Your and outstanding writer Thank You for sharing.
You are most welcome Bud.
Thanks for what you did for us out in the field while you were there…
Semper fi,
Jim
Sure looking forward to the third ten days. Good job!!
Thanks Dempsey, working away…
Semper fi,
Jim
One can easily understand your reluctance to address these following chapters! However, you do need to deal with them once and for all and be done with it.
Thanks J, for the understanding…and your continuing loyalty, as well…
Semper fi,
Jim
Another great episode. One comment, 12th Marines is an artillery regiment. Were they sending them in on their own.
Yes, the guys on here have been telling me that it had to be the 9th but I remember it to this day as the 12th.
Out in the bush we did not always get it right.
Semper fi,
Jim
I see now why you had such a hard time writing this segment. I know you had to relive it to write it. Jim in the time you have been with the company you have saved over ten times more marines than what were killed that day. The Gunny and the men still believe in you and that says it all. Thank you once again for sharing your story I know it’s hard for you but it has done so much good for the vets who are reading it. I still think your thirty days should be mandatory reading for new marine officers. It could save many Marines!
How do they get the new officers to go if they read my work? that was the problem when I came home and they asked me where I wanted to be transferred.
I said to Quantico to TBS. They said there was no way I’d ever talk to a TBS class. I didn’t understand then, but I do now.
Semper fi,
Jim
Great reading. 1 st paragraph 5 th line from the bottom ” about the that that”. I always look forward reading your work. Great job.
I keep looking and can’t find.
First Paragraph of the segment?
Thanks Hayward
I think Hayward was referring to “The sun had fallen behind and above the clouds that that …”
The sun had fallen behind and above the clouds that that poured drizzling rain down into the heart of the valley where the company
Ow maybe you can find it?
We got it!
Thanks
This is what Hayward is pointing out.
“The sun had fallen behind and above the clouds (that that) poured drizzling rain down into the heart of the valley where the company, and what was left of Kilo, had gone down following the debacle of taking out the cliff top snipers.”
Thanks for all your efforts,
Dave
Thanks, David
We found it and corrected
Semper fi,
JIm
“The sun had fallen behind and above the clouds that that poured…..” is what I think Hayward is talking about, 5th or 6th sentence, 1st paragraph.
Thank you for sharing your story, it causes me to think about the vet’s I work with and appreciate them even more.
We finally caught it and corrected.
Semper fi,
Jim
The sun had fallen and above the clouds that that poured drizzling…
Thanks to you and others, so noted and corrected.
Appreciate you, Jim
Semper fi,
Jim
“The sun had fallen behind and above the clouds (that that) poured drizzling rain down into the heart of the valley”
Now I understand…
Corrected. Thank you
Bill
Semper fi,
Jim
1st paragraph 4th line up from the bottom. “…above the clouds that that poured drizzling rain…”
Another amazing chapter that really got me thinking about the war and that period.k
Thanks, Monty.
Corrected.
Semper fi
Jim
Jim, Welcome home, Dave.
The sun had fallen behind and above the clouds (that that) poured drizzling rain down into … => (that)
Always appreciated, Dave.
Corrected.
Semper fi
Jim
That was hard to read.
Thanks Walt, and you are accurate, as usual.
Semper fi,
Jim
Praing for you and knowing how painful and difficult it is for you to write these segments. Your purpose from God is so great and difficult but I know He will keep you strong. God loves you very much James. So many are praying for you as you write.
God Bless you,
Nancy
What’s to be said in reply to what you write, other than that you always make me smile…
Semper fi,
Jim
Another superbly written segment. Riveting. Much respect LT, sir.
Thanks Tony. Much appreciated…
Semper fi,
Jim
Crying as a combat Infantry LT is mandatory in my opinion.
It is not an emotion I ever expected to have, or rather the manifestation of such intense emotion.
Thanks for your support.
Semper fi,
Jim
Wow, just wow !
thanks for the support embodied in your short comment…and the compliment.
Semper fi,
Jim
Dammit, Lt, you had to mention 12th Marines. I did a lot of time with D-2-12
Yes, I did mention the 12th, which is what I remember, although guys on here are telling me that it had to be the 9th.
Out in the bush we did not always get it right.
Semper fi,
Jim
TOUGH DEAL.
Thanks Harold for the support intended by your single word comment.
Semper fi,
Jim
Yes, Jim, As the night falls, Brother John’s selection to close out a bad day, just for You…..
“Secret Agent Man”
There’s a man who leads a life of danger
To everyone he meets he stays a stranger
With every move he makes
Another chance he takes
Odds are he won’t live to see tomorrow
Secret Agent Man
Secret Agent Man
They’ve given you a number and taken away your name
Beware of pretty faces that you find
A pretty face can hide an evil mind
Oh, be careful what you say
Or you’ll give yourself away
Odds are you won’t live to see tomorrow
Secret Agent Man
Secret Agent Man
They’ve given you a number and taken away your name
Swinging on the Riviera one day
And then laying in a Bombay alley next day
Oh, don’t you let the wrong words slip
While kissing persuasive lips
Odds are you won’t live to see tomorrow
Secret Agent Man
Secret Agent Man
They’ve given you a number and taken away your name
Yep, Seems like Your tour was caught totally in this song……….
“There’s a man who leads a life of danger”
“Oh, be careful what you say”
“They’ve given you a number and taken away your name”
“To everyone he meets he stays a stranger
With every move he makes
Another chance he takes
Odds are he won’t live to see tomorrow”
Yes, Read the Roll, Mark the Toll, and throw the dice, Drive on Muther Fuckr! What they gona do? Bend your dog tags and sent you to Nam……..Don’t Mean Nuthin!
I have read every word, I have seen it true, and Still, If I had to do it all again, and could chose my CO, I don’t think I could do any better than serve under Your command.
Semper Fi/This We Defend Bob.
Thanks for the song lyrics. Really!
Semper fi,
Jim
I take it as a compliment that it takes you time to digest my post to you, I know that this has meaning, Because it has meaning to my life also, God Bless, and I am glad you made it through hell to tell your tale.
Semper Fi/This We’ll Defend Bob.
Thanks Robert. It is indeed a grand compliment that you put your well thought out comments on here, and that helps make the effort worth it.
Semper fi, my friend,
Jim
Hard to read, can only imagine how hard it was to write.
Yes, it has been an emotional adventure getting it all down. Thanks for the thought, and especially the concern expressed by your words.
Semper fi,
Jim
Strong man !
Thanks Beau, not sure what that single word really means, but I like it…
Semper fi,
Jim
It means this is a strong story !
I really enjoy your narratives.
I was with the Fourth Inf. Out of Pleiku.
1968 – 1969
Keep up the good work.
Beau Gregory
Thanks, Beau,
Semper fi,
Jim
James-Great writing as always. You were caught between a “rock and a hard place” with no obvious escape available. Hope to see the next episode soon.
One possible correction;
The A Shau wasn’t on the map but I knew it was located just a bit west of the Laos border and down from the DMZ. Shouldn’t this be “a bit east” of the Laos border? Maybe my geography is messed up.
Yes, you are correct and I am the one that got confused…
Semper fi,
Jim
Some truths are maybe too awful to have to remember, huh, LT? Here’s a little ditty in memory of your losses and the plan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtJ1Gnh9wPU
Thanks Howard, for the comment and the link!
Semper fi,
Jim
Wow just to be able to write this down must have been a real chore. Now if my hands stop shaking I will be OK. Thanks
Not sure what I posted wrong – OH well stuff happens
Did I say something critical. I can’t find it among all the comments. If I did then I apologize. I occasionally get things wrong in my writing, like the direction or maybe where a particular fire base was in supporting us or even the description of an airplane. I hope whatever reply I made did not offend you. I much enjoy the dialogue and your running commentary…
Semper fi, and thank you…
Jim
No concerns from here other wondering why my post showed as “pending review” guess I was too quick in posting. You are doing a great job – I can not verbalize many of my experiences much less put them down on paper – and I knew that you knew which direction led to Laos. Great job – No Slack from the 2/327 101st
Thank you Bob and I have idea why your post ended up in ‘pending review,’ since I don’t review any of them. I just answer and publish,
thanks for your comments…
Semper fi,
Jim
I posted on 22 January, it still shows as “Pending Review”,
I found it and responded Thomas!!!
Semper fi,
Jim
Now it says”awaiting moderation”, lol
I will try to find that comment and get it out here…and thanks for letting me know…
Semper fi,
Jim