I KNEW I WOULD MESS UP SOMETHING, MESSED UP MY CAPITALIZATION, fRED
FRED
USA - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 21:54:15 (MST)

THANKS, RON, LOOKS GREAT!!!!!!!!! NOW!!!!!! SEND ME SOME E-MAILS, YA`ALL.........cRAZY fREDDIE
FRed
USA - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 21:49:57 (MST)

Evenin' Flight. Sent email photos of the hat to all that requested tonight. First batch went in the mail today. As I write this, Ron and Crazy Freddie are on the phone planning Phoenix. I promised Fred we'll pick him up at the airport with ice-cold Heinekens... Or something like that. But it will definitely be in something with 4 wheels. Always running to keep up as a little sister, Jamie DeBates.
Ron DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 21:16:22 (MST)

O`BROTHERS AND SISTERS........WHERE ART THOU........I`m.........HOCKING .........SLOCKING.......AND....ROCKING..... WHAT`S UP....... First time I`ve been on-line in a month!!! Kim has been using the " little machine" for consulting{ can`t spell}. Sooo..., Gus, THANK YOU BROTHER, for the pictures, that took some effort. RON DEBATES, money not really a problem, TIME is the problem. Kim, only gets 3 weeks vacation this year. OH!!!!!! By the way Ron, I have not drink J.D.no.7 since the early 80`s. I have a habit of " BREAKING OUT IN SPOTS ", like Pittsburgh, ST. Louis, Bozeman, L.A., Cleveland, I hope you understand!!!!!!!! It took Kim, years to figure that one out. But we settled on HEINEKEN, so " It`s All Good ". Now, Matt casey, send me a e-mail with your address, OK, . Now Rick England, I`m assuming that your address is the same, COOL!!!!!. Check is in the mail..... NOW...... I know that alot of BROTHERS, get in the web-site. And ya`all don`t TALK..... You BROTHERS need to get with us.....OK If I come to Phoenix, WHO, WILL PICK ME UP AT THE AIRPORT???????? . I Want a HEINEKEN waiting for me. NO HARLEY`S PLEASE!!!! I LOVE YOU ALL, BUT HARLEY`S ARE OUT OF THE QUESTION!!!!!!!! I`LL BE DRUNK ALLREADY. (JUST KIDDING). Sounds like the movie" We Were Soldiers" is great. Well did pretty good tonight, for being "drunk and stoned", I hope that doesn`t upset some of you BROTHERS AND SISTERS. As the old{Four Tops) song says" I Can`t Help Myself". Please send me a e-mail, that`s the only time Kim let`s me on the "Computer". I LOVE YA`ALL, Crazy Freddie(Bulldog664)
Freakie Freddie <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 20:49:55 (MST)

I FORGOT TO MENTION WHAT HAPPENED IN 1975 TO THE ARVENS AND VIET NAMESE THAT WORKED WITH AMERICANS. IF THEY WEREN'T KILLED, THE GOT FOUR TO TEN YEARS IN PRISON; PRISON TIME WAS DETERMANED BY THEIR RANK. THE HIGHER THE RANK THE MORE TIME THEY GOT. JOE
joe johnson <cobra073@yahoo.com>
USA - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 10:34:13 (MST)

Friends-here's a petition to get Rick Rescorla a hero's medal-Rick is on the cover of the book "We Were Soldiers Once...and Young," and if you read the below you'll agree that this petition is the least we can do. Thank you. And I'm sorry for taking up so much space...always, Gently Most of you are aware of the Rick rescorla thread awhile back. But I will update you anyway. Rick is the man on the book cover. He was revered by his men. A good leader. In the garage bombing of WTC in early 90's he was instrumental in getting people out. On 9/11 he was responsible for saving over 2600 people from his workplace and he lost his life trying to save more. At the following URL there is an online petition for awarding Rick "The Presidential Medal of Freedom". it can be signed online. I ask that you go read it and then make up your mind if you want to sign it. At least read it. And if you agree with it, pass it on to your friends on your email list. I knew Rick and he was everything they say plus more. Thanks http://www.petitiononline.com/pmfrick/petition.html DICK _________________ Recon 2/7 Cav '65 Ia Drang Valley survivor LZ XRAY & LZ ALBANY
gentlyj <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 07:51:55 (MST)

Morning-I just got this "We Were Soldiers" film review off a website and thought I would pass it on- Always a sister, Gently This is really long. Sorry. I don't have the link. A friend showed it to me. It's an excellent review that really understands what the film is about. ******** Review: We Were Soldiers We Were Soldiers A Film Review by James Berardinelli -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We Were Soldiers is the latest in the new breed of war movies - films that throw the viewer into the midst of the chaos and brutality of the fray, giving audiences a taste of the violent, visceral nature of an armed conflict, while still allowing moments of honor and heroism to stand out. In the wake of Saving Private Ryan and Black Hawk Down, We Were Soldiers is not as shocking as it might have been, but it is no less impressive because of that. Interestingly, the picture is also one of the few movies about Vietnam to eschew a political message. During and after the war, Vietnam has become a lightning rod for writers and directors espousing a particular viewpoint, but We Were Soldiers takes a different path. It is about nothing more complex than men trying to survive, and, in that quest, showing the best and worst that humanity has to offer. The film tells of the November 1965 battle in the Ia Drang Valley (a.k.a. "The Valley of Death"), which was the first major engagement between American and North Vietnamese troops. Before taking the story to Vietnam, however, director Randall Wallace (the writer of Braveheart) allows us to spend some time with the American soldiers at home. This become crucial to the movie's later success, as it humanizes the men, presenting them as more than faceless fodder for enemy bullets. If only briefly, we see their wives and children. Then they ship off, and, in seemingly no time, are trapped and outnumbered, fighting for their lives. The commanding officer is Col. Hal Moore (Mel Gibson), the leader of the 1st Battalion of the 7th Cavalry. He is a student of history and a master of tactics, and his motto is to leave no man behind. Before departing for Vietnam, he has spent sleepless nights poring over books detailing previous military engagements there, and he is determined not to repeat the mistakes of those who preceded him. In the midst of battle, Moore is at his best, inspiring confidence in his men by never expecting more of them than he is willing and able to give. He seems to be everywhere, bolstering spirits and improvising defenses for each new attack by the enemy. The men under his command include daredevil helicopter pilot Snakeshit Crandall (Greg Kinnear); the gentle and well-liked Lt. Jack Geoghegan (Chris Klein), whose wife has just given birth; and the crusty Sgt-Maj. Basil Plumley (Sam Elliott in the R. Lee Ermy role), Moore's right-hand man. Another key participant is photojournalist Joe Galloway (Barry Pepper), who is temporarily forced to exchange his camera for a gun. For the most part, Wallace keeps us in Vietnam, but, during the course of the three-day battle, he occasionally breaks away for interludes at the stateside base where the wives are waiting and worrying. During these sequences, which serve the dual purpose of interrupting tension and building character, we spend time with two women in particular - Moore's wife, Julie (Madeleine Stowe), and Geoghegan's wife, Barbara (Keri Russell). These two take it upon themselves to deliver the dreaded yellow telegrams to the newly-widowed women living around them. One of We Were Soldiers' most memorable scenes occurs not on the battlefield, but when one of the first telegrams arrives and Julie think it's for her. Stowe shines in this scene as the emotions - dread, panic, horror, grief, shock, and relief - flicker across her features. We Were Soldiers' battle action is as intense and unsparing as that of Black Hawk Down, yet the movie is richer because the characters are more fully realized. The gore is no less prevalent and the assault on the senses is no less brutal. As powerful as the film is, it is not for the faint of heart or of stomach. Those who do not like war movies may find this particular excursion difficult to endure. Although We Were Soldiers does not glorify the carnage that was Vietnam, it displays, in a lucid manner, small acts of heroism. These are things that never make it into the history books, which are concerned only about winners and losers and the number of casualties. Such texts are not interested in the story of a helicopter pilot who risks his life in a maneuver that saves his commanding officer, or in the officer who dies trying to rescue a mortally wounded comrade. We Were Soldiers also refuses to demonize the North Vietnamese. Much as in Patton, where we are given insight into the activities within the German HQ, this movie takes us into the military sanctum of the North Vietnamese, where the commander is plotting each move against the Americans. One Vietnamese soldier carries a picture of his girlfriend in a diary he places close to his heart. There is never any question that these men are the enemy, but Wallace makes sure we understand that "enemy" does not equate to "evil." Everyone who lives and dies, regardless of which side they're on, is a human being. The screenplay, by Wallace, is drawn from the novel "We Were Soldiers Once, and Young", an account of the battle written by Moore and Galloway. The movie is more faithful to the historical record than most films, and the sense of verisimilitude is unmistakable. The performances are solid without exception - from Chris Klein, who puts his boyish blandness to good use; to Greg Kinnear, who shows an unusually heroic edge; to Barry Pepper, who exhibits the film's greatest transformation; to Mel Gibson, who makes Moore the bigger-than-life figure that all legends become. We care about these people - in part because the screenplay gives us cause to, and in part because the actors make them real to us. Once, war movies were very much arm's length affairs, but, in an era when so many lines have been crossed and so many barriers broken, such an approach no longer works. As a result, the in-your-face style of We Were Soldiers results in a suspenseful, intense, and exhausting cinematic experience. There are times when the film is grueling and times when it is exhilarating. The movie has the ability to keep viewers on the edges of their seats and to wring tears from their eyes. It's an amazing experience, and a second success from the team that previously cooperated to give us an Oscar-winning motion picture. Their subject, both then and now, is about the courageous of spirit and brave of heart. © 2002 James Berardinelli -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of 1 Display posts from previous: All Posts1 Day7 Days2 Weeks1 Month3 Months6 Months1 Year Oldest FirstNewest First All times are CST (U.S./Canada) Jump to: Select a forum We Were Soldiers ---------------- The Movie The History War Experiences Set Experiences General Discussion ---------------- Off Topic Other War Films Models/Airshows/Etc. Site Comments Site Announcements Movie Talk You can read posts in this forum You cannot post new topics in this forum You cannot reply to posts in this forum You cannot edit your posts in this forum You cannot delete your posts in this forum
Gentlyj <jsinger @uwm.edu>
Milwaukee, USA - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 07:41:21 (MST)

Ron D..........YAHOOOOOO>so now we have 129th Hats also....ya hear that Troops???......Ron send the image to me and a address of where all can get them from you and I will have it posted on the front page on the 129th page.........I'll take the first 4 hats and let me know how to pay you..................thanks man...........WOW...129th web page,129th window stickers, 129th t/shirts, 129th patches, 129th hat pins, a 129th family, and NOW...129th hats......we have come along way crew.........thanks to all!!!!!!!!!!!......always a brother...........Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Wednesday, February 27, 2002 at 20:35:12 (MST)

Evenin' Flight - alas! 129th hats are in hand. I'm pretty pleased. First batch rolled off the machine this afternoon and are ready to be mailed. $21 will cover it. I took a digital picture and will be glad to email anyone who wants a look first. Let me know. Ron
Ron DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Wednesday, February 27, 2002 at 20:10:37 (MST)

FYI The wife and I plan to leave here early on friday AM the 15th of March and head for Coldwater. (Long as the snow is not too deep) Will put the rotor blade on the 1 ton pickup, fill the pig with gas (454) and hope for low crosswinds. Not sure of the route. 94 from Minneapolis across WI and drop down around Rockford and pick up 24 across to Ohio. Hope to make it there by Saturday noon or early afternoon. Hope to see some of you there. Gus Aug67-Mar69 CE Bulldog 234, Cobra 949
Gus <tgus@brainerd.net>
USA - Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 21:31:52 (MST)

......hey Katherine Marsee!!!!!!!!!..sent you an e-mail but it came back. Do you have a knew addy?????.......Mark
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Monday, February 25, 2002 at 18:41:21 (MST)

HEY GUYS.....GOT THIS THGE OTHER DAY..........THOUGHT YOU WOULD ENJOY IT........TAKE CARE Dear Mark, I was so pleased to stumble across your site. Your mission histories really jogged some memories. I served with the 2/327 of the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne. First of all, thanks for all the rides, the quick assaults and especially the extractions. I served in from August 1966-67, so I remember Tuy Hoa, Kontum, Song Mao, and most points in between. The chronology offered by your histories was such a wonderful surprise to find. I've been looking for some time for any documentation of the operations our units were involved in. I wondered what your sources were; Company logs? Your logs? Journals? And as you might imagine, what about the last half of 1967? Sure wish you did have that whole year. As I recall, we (the 101st) went up north sometime in July to support the Marines west Chu Lia. It was a bad area, we took many causalities. I remember the area, first of all because I was so "short," and vividly because Charlie had artillery. Nothing gets a grunts' attention quite like an artillery strike. Of course, we never face something like the 129th. In fact, I wish I had a dollar for every time a grunt looked up and thought "sure glad everything up there is on my side!" Finally, thanks again for the wonderful site and I appreciate all the hard work that went into it. William C. Amidon bill@dxcc.com
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Monday, February 25, 2002 at 18:06:46 (MST)

....HET,HEY,HEY, EVERYBODY..............HOPE ALL IS WELL WITH ALL........THINGS IS REALLY GOOD HERE. LIFE IS GOOD, EVERYBODY IS WELL, AND THE POP-A-TOP IS THE HOTTEST SPOT IN TOWN. THATS ONE IF THE REASON I HAVE NOT BEEN ON HERE AS MUCH. SEEMS THAT THERE IS SOMETHING ELSE THAT I HAVE TO DO TO MAKE IT AS SUCCESSFUL AS IT IS, BUT THAT THE MISSION I EMBARKED ON. IT'S NOT THE BARTENDIN' OR THE LUNCH AND SUPPERS THAT ARE SO MUCH WORK . IT'S JUST THAT IT DOES TAKE UP LOTS OF TIME. BUT I LOVE EVERY MINUTE OF IT. WE ARE PROUD OF THE PLACE AND A WEEK DOES NOT GO BY WHERE I NOTICE AN "FNG" IN THE POP-A-TOP WALK IN THE DOOR AND START A CONVERSATION WITH HIM. I CAN SPOT THE VETS THE MINUTE THEY WALK IN. THEY ARE ALWAYS THE ONES THAT WALK AROUND THE PLACE AND LOOK AT AND READ MOST OF THE ARTIFACTS THAT ARE ON THE WALLS.................AND THAT BRINGS ME TO GUS, AND THE "BLADE".....GUS , MY FRIEND....THE WEEK OF MARCH 16TH WORKS FOR US, IF IT WORKS FOR YOU AND THE 6. I HAVE BEEN DISCUSSING THE PROJECT OF HANGING THE BLADE WITH SOME OF MY PATRONS THAT ARE FAMILIER WITH THAT KIND OF WORK. WE HAVE BEEN TALKING ABOUT WHERE TO HANG IT AND HOW TO HANG IT. IT WILL REQUIRE DRILLING SOME HOLES IN THE CEILING AND WRAPPING THE HANGING DEVICE AROUND THE RAFTERS UP THERE. IT IS AN 100 YEAR OLD BUILDING, SO I WANT IT TO BE DONE CORRECTLY AND AS SAFE AS POSSIBLE. TALK IS TO HANG IT RIGHT BENIETH WHERE THE BACK OF THE BAR IS WHERE US BARTENDERS WORK, AND AT AN ANGLE.NOT TO OBSTRUCT THE SIGHT OF THINGS ALREADY UP ON THE WALL. I DOUGHT IF WE WILL GET IT HUNG THE DAY YOU BRING IT, UNLESS I CAN FIND THE TIME TO WORK THE DETAILS OUT BEFORE YOU GET HERE GUS. BY THE WAY. HOW LONG IS IT? I FIGURE 24 FEET!!! ALSO, HOW MUCH DOES IT WAY 250LBS?.........ANYWAYS, IF THERE IS GOING TO BE A MINI 129TH REUINON AT THE TIME THE "BLADE" GETS HERE, THAT IS THE DAY THAT WE ARE HOLDING OUR 2ND ANNUAL ST PATRICK DAY POP-A-TOP BEAN BAG TOURNEY. YOU GUYS CAN ALL BE A PART OF IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!;-)))))))THAT WOULD BE FUN!!!!!!....IF SOME ARE COMING, LET ME KNOW THAT NUMBER AND I CAN BLOCK SOME ROOMS OFF IN A NEAR BY TOWN THAT HAS A HOTEL. AINT GOT ONE IN COLDWATER.........LET ME KNOW.....................JOE JOHNSON.....THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU FOR THE UPDATES ON YOUR TRIP IN VIETNAM. I DID , AND I AM SURE OTHERS WAITED FOR YOUR UPDATES DAILY. THINKING ABOUIT STAYING OVER THERE HUH?...UM........STAY IN TOUCH BROTHER!!!!!!THANKS AGAIN!!!!...HAVE BEEN SEEING ALL THE COMO ABOUT THE MOVIE.......TOLD DEE WE WILL HAVE TO GO AND SEE IT..............WELP.....HOPE ALL IS WELL WITH ALL.....ALL IS WELL HERE....TAKE CARE BROTHERS AND SISTERS.................ALWAYS A BROTHER AND SISTER.......MARK AND DEE
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ HOME, USA - Monday, February 25, 2002 at 17:55:36 (MST)

Well it's been a few days since the screening of WE WERE SOLDIERS. I guess it has taken that long to really think about the movie. It's a very powerful and emotional movie. They did thier home work for this one. Alot of detail, Tom was right about the mini-guns that we had back in 65. But, the sounds of the bullets hitting the chopper and warning going off as the chopper was going down. Yes! they got their facts right this time. It's a movie to see. Well on a littler note. I am getting a good response on the Phoenix Reunion. We should have a great Group from the 129th. About 3 1/2 months until LZ Phoenix. Take care Brothers and Sisters. Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn. USA - Monday, February 25, 2002 at 07:43:13 (MST)

HELLO TO ALL: JUST A FEW FINALE NOTES ON VIET NAM TRIP --- AMERICANS ARE TREATED VERY WELL,AND TRAVEL IS VERY SAFE.VIET NAM IS MUCH MORE CONSERVITIVE THAN WHEN WE WERE THERE. THERE ARE NO DRUNKS ON THE STREETS, AND SEX WORKERS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN MOST HOTELS.----- THERE IS ALOT OF ROAD KILL IN NAM; IT IS USUALLY ON A HONDA---------I FOUND TRAVELING BY LAND VERY BOORING,AFTER MANY HOURS IN THE AIR I THINK WE SAW ALL THERE WAS TO SEE.------IF YOU ARE THINKING OF GOING TO NAM I RECOMEND HEADING STRAIT TO NHA TRANG; AND SETTLE IN FOR A CHEEP HOLIDAY, THE ONLY OTHER PLACE I ENJOYED WAS DA LOT.------- BAMI BA #33 BEER IS NOW #333--------THERE ARE NO SAIL'S ON THE SAM-PANS THEY ARE ALL DIESEL POWERED. ------IF YOU ARE ORDERING PIZZA AND ASK IF YOU WANT "SWEED" PIZZA, THAT IS SQUID PIZZA, JUST A CUT ABOVE ANCHOVIE, PA-TOOEY!----TET WAS A BIG CELABRATION, EVERY PLACE WAS PARTYING FOR ABOUT A WEEK. IN CLOSING I RECOMEND THAT IF YOU ARE IN THIS PART OF THE WORLD; GO TO THAILAND AND ENJOY. IT IS THE CANDY STORE OF THE ORIENT. VERY CLEAN,FRIENDLY, INEXPENSIVE,AND BEAUTIFUL. I HAVE SPENT TWO MONTHS HERE AND THE ONLY THING I DON'T LIKE IS THE THOUGHT OF LEAVING. PERHAPS I WILL STAY.---BEST REGARDS TO ALL, JOE JOHNSON
JOE JOHNSON <cobra073@yahoo.com>
USA - Monday, February 25, 2002 at 01:15:32 (MST)

Fred Skaggs, I sent you some pix of lighter art. I hope it works out for you. If not let me know and if nothing else I can send you one of my lighters and you can have it copied if you can find an engraver. Mark, the wife and I are thinking about comming down with the "BLADE" the weekend of the 16th of March. Does that work for you? Let me know. Want to get the date set and that way maybe some of the gang that are close can come down and we can make a bit of an event out of it. I would sure like to eyeball some of you guys again. Mark the blade is comming as is with all the dings and dents. I was going to clean it up, fill the dents and holes and make it look like new. Then I got to thinking that maybe it sould look just like the rest of us and show some of that hard use. :-) Later, Gus
Gus <tgus@brainerd.net>
USA - Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 07:54:24 (MST)

Hey, Flight... There's an official website for the movie "We Were Soldiers". It's http:/www.weweresoldiers.com/ I've been reading the commo on this, as it's not yet at our theatre, so did a search on the movie title. Thought you'd all be interested...
Dave Powers <powers@montrose.net>
Montrose, Colorado USA - Friday, February 22, 2002 at 08:16:34 (MST)

Just saw the movie “We Were Soldiers” in Scottsdale, AZ with a theater full of vets and their significant others. Excellent movie. They got a couple of minor things wrong like miniguns in 1965 but they got the idea of it exactly right. Yeah, lot of tears in the theater. It went from a pretty talkative crowd in the hour before the movie started to a very silent crowd watching the credits. With a great deal of pride in the guys and gals that went and did what they were asked to do. With a great deal of anger, still, at the lying, incompetent, idiot politicians and businesses that sent us for their own ends. May the former never be forgotten. May the latter burn in hell. Cobra Soothsayer, 67-68
Tom Shanahan <Shanahan00@Cox.net>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Thursday, February 21, 2002 at 23:56:00 (MST)

Thanks Ron-what a relief to hear positiive comments about "We Were Soldiers." Mel Gibson will be on Jay leno tonight and discuss the film...so if you're up... I have to go-have to cut the grass for my trip to Phoenix. With gentle thoughts, Gently
Gentlyj <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Wednesday, February 20, 2002 at 07:23:00 (MST)

Goodmorning Flight: Glad to see all the commo. Also, Ron appreciate a little info on the movie. Our Charlie Rains of the Vhcma gave his imput into the movie along with others of the 229th. All he told me was it would be the closest movie to reality. We have our screening here in Memphis tommorrow night. Ted when you decide on a date for the pop-a-top let us know. It's a 12hour drive. But, we can get a mini going. Barry, let me know what day your coming through Memphis on your way to Phoenix. I think were flying out on Sunday. It's a direct flight on Northwest. Ho!! anyone whom has changed their email please send a correction. I just up dated the few changes that I recently recieved. Been sending information on the reunion but, had a bunch come back. I have the registration forms and VHCMA application forms here with me. The pre-registeration gives us a idea on how many to expect. Last year we had over 500 vets and their wives. Well take care Brothers and Sisters. Alex 129th 65-68
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Wednesday, February 20, 2002 at 06:57:06 (MST)

Mark, Whats this sir shit?????? Ron:>)))
Ron Paye <ronpaye@home.com>
Indy, IN USA - Wednesday, February 20, 2002 at 05:50:09 (MST)

Mr Paye........good to see your words......long time. no como, Miss your embrace sir. Love and peace to all................always a brother....................Jackson.....
Jacksons'
USA - Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 21:33:30 (MST)

Flight, Guess its time I check in with a post. Don't want Gently to become un-gentle with me. She might stop cutting grass:>)))) I just hate putting my thoughts down. To hard on the old brain cells. I do want to say a few words about the movie "We Were Soldiers." It is a MUST see for everyone. It is with out a doubt the best movie I have ever seen. You will get tears more than once, I can guarantee. But, you will have just an great sense of pride. When the movie is over, most of the people do not leave. They just stay in their seats, most not talking. After thinking about it, I think it is because for a few hours we were taken back to a time of honor, pride, sacrifice and unconditional love and when the movie was ended,,,,,, I did not want it to be over. I wanted to stay in the moment of Brotherhood. For a few hours I was a young guy again..... There are some super helicopter shots. Tracers coming right at you, passing on each side. And guess what? I did not see a single wire cutter on any of the choppers. That is how real they got it. Gently, you asked if it will wigg out some of the guys. I doubt it. I think most will find themselves in the move, and for once the will be able to feel a great pride in what they did, what they shared. For once it was done "like it was." No Hollywood, no John Wayne, (I love John Wayne) This movie got it right. Even to the way the guys were treated when they got off the plane when they came home. A few months ago I saw an advitersment on TV for an interesting war stories. I told my daughter that it looked like a good movie and I might go see it. She said "Why! All you do is bitch about how phonie everything is and how full of B.S. it is. Not once did I see anything in this movie that was B.S. I have no, none "not one" complaint about it. Mal Gibson and Sam Elliott did an excellent job, and the guy who played Joe Galloway should get an Oscar or Academy award or what ever the hell they give, but I doubt he will get it with the dip shits in Hollywood. Well that is enough rambling. Everyone, just go and see the movie. You will not be sorry. Love And Brotherhood. Ron Paye
Ron Paye <ronpaye@home.com>
Indy, UN USA - Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 19:08:26 (MST)

Gus, congrats ole Buddy and the best of luck to you & your new wife. Just post it on here when you decide on a date and I'll be there. I'm sure there's a few locals that will make it too. Maybe we can have a mini reunion at the Pop-A-Top. You'll love the place as well as Mark & Dee. When you get to Indiana maybe I can hook up with ya. Gale
Gale Beard <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 11:57:27 (MST)

Gale, I have been waiting for my new wife to sell her house so we can leave. I have been thinking about the first part of March if the WX is good. Joe, what is new? It would be cool if I could make it to Cold Water for the 10 March. That is the day I got separated and pulled up in my front yard at home in a cab. It would be nice to make it to Mark's and spend some time with the 129th again. I will have to work on that. Gus
Gus <tgus@brainerd.net>
USA - Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 09:28:35 (MST)

Hasn't Ann Margaret always been an optical illusion. I'm still :>))) You guys, m-m-m-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 07:15:33 (MST)

Joe Johnson, Hope everythings ok over there. It's been over a week since we had any commo from ya. Gus, how's your plans coming on bringing the rotor blade to Pop-A-Top this Spring? Let us know so we can plan something. Ron & Fred... how was the new movie that you guys went to see about Nam? Nice meeting you at the Cracker Barrel too Fred. I saw you at Louisville and asked someone what happened to you and nobody seemed to know that you had left.Hang in there next time Buddy. Talk about Mark in that chicken plate...I followed them Harleys all the way down in the pouring rain. Gently...I missed you too at L'ville, but, we're staying for the dance in Phoenix. I'll get a card out tomorrow! Take care Bros & Sisters, Gale
Gale Beard <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 22:45:40 (MST)

i,too,was at louisville.Met some very nice people at crackerbarrel out side of town .laughing to myself....i will never forget the sight of Mark with that damn chicken plate on, on his harley.Sorry i couldnt stay longer and meet everyone there but i got very nervous,jummpy,was awash in emotions and had to leave.Hey, whos going to pop a top in march? sounds like a good time to show up for me too...ron? what about u buddy?Be a good time to take my 1954 sks (russian ) there for Mark to hang up for a while.Mark..is it legal to do that?Shrug,i can keep the firing pin.i hope this letter finds all of u well and the very best of luck with the kidney.....hope its just meaness coming out.fast movers at 9 oclock sir
fred alvis <Ghoastrider1@aol.com>
indy, in USA - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 20:25:46 (MST)

OK guys, WHO is going to be the one to tell Gently about THE PHOTO of Ann Margrett???!!!!!! Fact is, there was a very popular picture of Ann, an optical illusion, of course, that made the rounds. I saw one at An Son, another was at Long Binh. Gently, there are times when I think you're the most sane one here! Kim
kim La voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
Livermore, Me USA - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 15:11:48 (MST)

Mark, My husband and I are thinking about coming to the Pop a Top the first weekend in March. If we do decide we will need directions. Coming and visiting with the 129th is very emotional for me. It takes a while for me to work up the nerve to come. After the reunion in Sept. at Kokomo I was emotional for two weeks. I don't think it is bad but it is truly an emotional roller coaster. I wish I could explain my thoughts and feelings better. I will let you know when we do decide. Take Care. and as always WELCOME HOME to all the 129th. Katharine
Katharine <fricabeunme@msn.com>
Elizabethtown, KY USA - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 12:09:16 (MST)

MORNING FLIGHT, LOGGED IN TO FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENING. COUNTING DOWN DAYS TOO REUNION MARKWOULD YOU CHANGE E-MAIL IN CONTACT TO MY EMAIL COBRA 129TH @ AOL.COM. THE ONE POSTED IS MY SONS EMAIL. NO LONGER WORKABLE,THANKS.THINKING ABOUT COMING UP TO SEE YOU DEE AT POP-A-TOP IN AUGUST,I'LL LET YOU KNOW FOR SUER LATER.HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL AT REUNION. BE WELL ALL WINK
BARRY WINKLER <COBRA129TH@AOL.COM>
LAKELAND, FL USA - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 08:55:27 (MST)

Morning soldiers. What a great Vietnam Veteran/Ann Margaret story-brought tears to my eyes. You are heroes to so many of us!!! Our friend, 129th AHC pilot and member, Ted Buisker, goes to the VA in Madison for a tumor check-kidney. He feels OK about it(ya, sure Ted) but I think we should send prayers and cards-his home addy is : 8744 E. Pleasant View Road, Davis, IL 61019. His Email is listed somewhere on this page where he's talking about good old Bong Song. BTW-I feel very much a part of this group-I don't need a certificate. But thank you for the recognition my friend(S). With gentle thoughts-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 08:37:51 (MST)

Goodmorning Flight: Fred, Gently has been part of the 129th family for a long time now. But, I am glad that everyone has welcomed her into our family. Yes, we have been blessed with Mark and Dee Jackson, Gently and everyone whom visits this site. Personally I have had the pleasure of meeting quite a few of you whom visit this sight. Thats why I decided to have the 129th reunions with VHCMA. These reunions are every year in a different section of our country. This enables me to meet our 129th Brothers and Sisters from across our great country. I got Mark Jackson involved in helping me get the word out about the reunions. Mark's and Dee's first was Charoltte and I promise it won't be the last. True enough there isn't enough praise for the work that Mark and Dee have done for the 129th. I am am proud to say I found a real Brother and Sister for life with Mark and Dee. If anyone is hesitate about attending a reunion. Just ask on this log and you'll find your answer. Last june in Louisville!! Cupp's,Matt Casey, Smitty. Myself,Rainer Bauer and Glenn Pearmain. Charoltte- Mark Jackson and Robbie Robinson and I could go on. All of us had spent one or two years of our lives together in Vietnam. We had our good and our bad times. Alot of our Brothers gave it all!! And were here to keep their memory alive. So inclosing My Brother Fred!! All of you 129th Brother and Sisters are very special people to me. Take Care To All!!! Alex 129th 65-68
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 07:04:36 (MST)

ty, Ron for the expererince,the tickets,the support.Gently,ty also,for being out there and the lead on the movie. Attention all 129th personal,I,door gunner/ crewchief and brother in arms,nominate GENTLY TO BE AN HONARAIRY MEMBER in good standing,welcome at all events,gathering and general bs,of the 129th ahc.lets hear some como on that.Also would like to nomiate mark and his dear wife Dee.By gosh,if anyone as earned it,they have.Can anyone come up with a certificate?.......coming thru the pass for gas...tower,how do u read,i read u lima charlie
fred alvis <Ghoastrider1@aol.com>
many, many USA - Saturday, February 16, 2002 at 19:17:00 (MST)

Hello flight, I got this in my E-mail from a friend of mine today and I thought I would share it with you .... I hope this works ...... > A neat story which is just a bit different from those of Jane Fonda. > > > Richard, (my husband), never really talked a lot about his time in Viet > Nam other than he had been shot by a sniper. However, he had a rather > grainy, 8 x 10 black & white photo he had taken at a USO show of Ann > Margaret with Bob Hope in the background that was one of his treasures. > > A few years ago, Ann Margaret was doing a book signing at a local > bookstore. Richard wanted to see if he could get her to sign the > treasured photo so he arrived at the bookstore at 12 o'clock for the > 7:30 signing. > > When I got there after work, the line went all the way around the > bookstore, circled the parking lot, and disappeared behind a parking > garage.. Before her appearance, bookstore employees announced that she > would sign only her book and no memorabilia would be permitted. Richard > was disappointed, but wanted to show her the photo and let her know how > much those shows meant to lonely GI's so far from home. > > Ann Margaret came out looking as beautiful as ever and, as 2nd in line, > it was soon Richard's turn. He presented the book for her signature and > then took out the photo. When he did, there were many shouts from the > employees that she would not sign it. > > Richard said, "I understand. I just wanted her to see it". > > She took one look at the photo, tears welled up in her eyes and she said, > "This is one of my gentlemen from Viet Nam and I most certainly will sign > his photo. I know what these men did for their country and I always have > time for "my gentlemen". With that, she pulled Richard across the table > and planted a big kiss on him. She then made quite a to do about the > bravery of the young men she met over the years, how much she admired > them, and how much she appreciated them. There weren't too many dry eyes > among those close enough to hear. She then posed for pictures and acted > as if he was the only one there. > > Later at dinner, Richard was very quiet. When I asked if he'd like to > talk about it, my big strong husband broke down in tears. "That's the > first time anyone ever thanked me for my time in the Army", he said.. > > Richard, like many others, came home to people who spit on him and > shouted ugly things at him. That night was a turning point for him. He > walked a little straighter and, for the first time in years, was proud to > have been a Vet. > > I'll never forget Ann Margaret for her graciousness and how much that > small act of kindness meant to my husband. > > I now make it a point to say Thank You to every person I come across who > served in our Armed Forces. Freedom does not come cheap and I am > grateful for all those who have served their country. > > If you'd like to pass on this story, feel free to do so. Perhaps it will > help others to become aware of how important it is to acknowledge the > contribution our service people make.
Don Miller <ayla@c2i2.com>
Valley Farms , AZ USA - Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 20:28:05 (MST)

May you all feel my love for you today, and always. Happy Valentines Day Heroes! Gently
Gentlyj <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 07:10:58 (MST)

RON,I WANT TO GO.....SO YES,PLEASE,I WOULD LIKE A TICKET.drop by and see me sometime at work,if ur cruzin out that way .
fred alvis <Ghoastrider1@aol.com>
indy, in USA - Tuesday, February 12, 2002 at 20:02:41 (MST)

Good Morning Flight: Well alot of commo about"WE WERE SOLDIERS ". Some of the info for the movie came from our 229th VHCMA MEMBERS. Which reminds me. I have VHCMA applications also, reunion registration forms. If anyone needs any please email me with your address And I will be more and glad and send you one. Hope we can double our size this year. we have alot of west coast members that have never attended a reunion. Let's try and get them there! Hopefully the movie "WE WERE SOLDIERS". Will be a positive way of getting our Brothers interested in finding us. We haven't touched the surface yet. And were not getting any younger, but better. Well take care Brothers!! And a special thanks to our Gently for passing on the information to us. Alex 129th 65-68
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn. USA - Tuesday, February 12, 2002 at 08:25:32 (MST)

Flight, If you are interested in "We Were Soldiers" in the Indy area. Give me a shout. Time is Thursday 7:00 PM at General Cinemas Clearwater, 4016 E. 82nd Street. I have a few passes for this Thursday and will be getting more for the show next Thursday. Each pass admits two. If anyone is interested they can e-mail me, or call me. Work 317-856-2627, home 317-856-6867. First come first served. Fred,let me know if you want one. Ron
Ron Paye <ronpaye@comcast.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Monday, February 11, 2002 at 20:48:26 (MST)

thank you Gently for the info.I am going to try to contact to see that.Ron Payne,want to make it with me to the movie?I am working at lowes in morresville,not to far from ur house.I am the tool specialist..U need somrthing formthe house,Ill sneak u my 10% off but shhh.
Fred Alvis <Ghoastrider1@aol.com >
indy, in USA - Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 10:48:47 (MST)

I have just emailed several of you with addresses and phone numbers of contact people in various area of the country for free tickets to see "We Were soldiers...". Please pass on the information. If you would like to know the contact in your area please go to www.229thavbn.com/1stCav/screening.html. Be strong....Gently
Gently <gentlyj@hotmail.com>
USA - Friday, February 08, 2002 at 14:35:02 (MST)

BOECKELS E-MAIL ADDRESS FOR STATE SIDE IS JUST BOECKEL@CMTYMAIL.26ASG.ARMY.MIL
BOECKEL, LOUIS <BOECKEL@CMTYMAIL.26ASG.ARMY.MIL>
GERMANY - Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 02:52:03 (MST)

HAY ANYBODY OUT THERE GOT A GOOD E-MAIL ADDRESS OF CPL JIMMY COX AND CLIFF WOLF---ALSO HAVE ALOT OF SUPER 8 MOVIES OF LANE/ AN SON, ALSO ALOT OF THE GUYS/PILOTS ALONG THE FLIGHT LINE 67/68 LOOKING FOR A PLACE THAT PUTS IT ON AMERICAN VIDEO CASSETTE'S... LET ME KNOW IF ANYBODY KNOWS A PLACE. I DONT LEAVE BAVARIA MUCH!!!!!!!!! WOULD LIKE TO SEE A REUNION IN BAVARIA---IT WOULD BE A BLAST LOUIS---
LOUIS BOECKEL <BOECKELL@CMTYMAIL@26ASG.ARMY.MIL>
US ARMY, NEW JERSEY GERMANY - Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 02:06:35 (MST)

up date on An Son.----- people who work there have told me that it is still in tact; all buildings are still there, a few new one's have been added, and more equipment is stored there. Also the village is still there. I can get close enouth for photos by dirt bike but risk being arrested, there also may be land mines.-----the sandle mistory has been solved. China has decided to capitalize on them, and had a tire company mass produce them for the army, so now they are standard issue, and all have the same tread, the heel is slightly elevated and the straps have been rounded on the edges, they are only used in limited conditions. They are not sold on the open market. Most of the military ware hi top Russian canves boots. China has also flooded the market with cheep shoes and sandels.
JOE JOHNSON <xobra073@yahoo.com>
USA - Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 03:09:54 (MST)

Does the person that crewed 64-13691 stay in contact with this site? I crewed it with the 281st based out of Nha Trang. I was transferred to the 61st (remember us? we were on the other side of the hill)Imagine my surprise when one day I'm walking past your flightline and there's 64-13691 with my name still painted above the crew chief's cubby hole. (PFC Mattioda) Nice site. Good and bad memories. Remember the little village right outside of the perimeter?
Larry Mattioda <l.mattioda@att.net>
USA - Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 09:53:22 (MST)

Hey All........Sunday morn, as I awake to the sounds of our grandkids voices. Great sound........Left the Pop-A-Top behind last night and spent the night in INDY at our daughters house. Good time. Been on my knees coloring, landing lil' planes on the makeshift runway that the grandsons have made and been watchin' Sponge Bob Square pants and the Rug Rats.........lovin' every second of it...........HEY JOE J.........THANK YOU VERY MUCH for the updates of your trip. I sure hope you took loads of pix that we can put on the web site. Breakfast is about ready and I have to help make a train track out of wood with the oldest grandson yet........see ya all later.............I love you all, Thanks for being out there for me...................JOE J......once again..........thanks you for the updates of your trip..................Take care brothers and sisters, Always a brother and sister, Mark and Dee,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,PS........OH Yeah........Gently..........sorry to hear about the break up............send me new e-mail addy and postal..............tic toc, tic toc, huh!
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ GRAND KIDS HOUSE, USA - Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 07:35:48 (MST)

IT LOOKS AS THOUGH FIRESTONE HAD A RECALL HERE ALSO. I HAVE ONLY SEEN ONE PAIR OF THE VC SANDLES.AND THAT WAS IN AN ART MUESIUM. ALSO NO BLACK SILK PAJAMAS. THERE IS VERY LITTLE DISPLAY OF MILITART ARMEMENT. ALOT OF ARMY BUT NO WEAPONS, ONLY A FEW WAR MEMORIALS; AND LOADS OF RED FLAGS WITH A YELLOW STAR,ALSO HAMER AND CYCLE FLAGS. I HAVE BEEN TO AN KUE, PLIECU,KON TOM,AND DELAT(IT WAS "F---'N" COLD, CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT). MOSTLY VISITING THE HILL TRIBES.----- IT LOOKS LIKE I WILL BE SPENDING TET HERE(YEAR 2545). I AM GLAD IT WON'T BE AS CRAZY AS 67&68.--- I AM BACK ON THE COAST NOW AT DOC LOT, IT IS ABOUT THIRTY MILES NORTH OF NHATRANG. IT IS ONE OF THE NICEST BEACHES AND THE TOUREST HAVEN'T FOUND IT YET. I THINK I HAVE JUST ABOUT CONCLUDED MY LAST TOUR IN NAM AND AM READY FOR SOME MORE R&R IN THAILAND.--MY BEST TO ALL JOE
JOE JOHNSON <cobra073@yahoo.com>
USA - Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 06:18:30 (MST)

Sorry about the spelling been up awhile couldn't sleep.
Rick England
USA - Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 03:33:04 (MST)

The Heard museum thats great place for native american stuff. The science museum is not far in Phoenix. It is consider some of the best in showa now they have the Titanic and you are given a ticket on the titanic at the end of the show you are told whether or not you survived the sinking of the titanic. The Heard has the flute music I like for camping and just quit sounds. This is one you shoulk not miss. Well be careful out there*******************Rick England RVN Jan 68 Jan69 129th AHC The Iron Butterfly Bull Dog 431
Rick England <bd431@mindspring.com>
Wittmann, AZ USA - Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 03:30:48 (MST)

WILL SHIT! I TRIED TO GET TO LANE BE THE ARMY HAS TAKEN IT OVER AND WOULDEN'T LET ME IN.THEY HAVE SET UP GATES AND A BUILDING (ALSO A CONCRETE BUNKER) ABOUT 1/4 MILE DOWN THE ROAD FROM THE RIVER ROAD TURN OFF. THE RIVER ROAD TURN OFF IS THE ONE COMING OUT OF QUI NHON, WHERE THER RIVER TAKES A BIG TURN AROUND A HILL. AT THE BAISE OF THAT HILL IS WHERE A COUPLE OF CAT HOUSES USE TO BE; IT ALSO MAY HAVE BEEN REFERED TO AS THE CAR WASH. "CHIP" SHOULD REMBER IT WELL HE WAS IN ONE OF THE CAT HOUSES ONE NIGHT WHEN WE WERE CALLED OUT TO MAKE GUN RUNS ON THE PLACE ( HIS OWN SHIP "101" SHIP WAS ON THAT MISSION). THERE IS HOUSING AND FARMING ALL THE WAY OUT TO,AND PAST THE LANE TURN OFF. MANY PEOPLE MOVED TO THE SOUTH AFTER 1975 AND SETTELED FOR ECONOMIC REASONS. I HAVE BEEN THROUGH THE CENTERAL HIGHLANDS THEY ARE VERY POPULATED. THE"TOOL" ROADS ARE FAIRLY GOOD, BUT JUST TWO LANES AND HEAVY TRAFIC. MANEY OLD RUSSIAN TRUCKS AND JEEPS BEING USED FOR COMERICAL TRANSPORT. ----ALL MY BEST JOE
JOE JOHNSON <cobra073@yahoo.com>
USA - Friday, February 01, 2002 at 01:42:49 (MST)