Criteria The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement o... The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement or service in support of Coast Guard operations not involving combat. The performance of duty must render the unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service but not of such a nature to merit award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Description
Has device "O" for operations. Awarded to members of USCG Auxiliary for operation assistance to Sewctor San Francisco
Criteria This ribbon recognizes the important contributions made by teams and groups below the unit OPFAC level; i.e., boat and aircraft crews, staff elements, Quality Action Teams, etc. All Coast Guard person... This ribbon recognizes the important contributions made by teams and groups below the unit OPFAC level; i.e., boat and aircraft crews, staff elements, Quality Action Teams, etc. All Coast Guard personnel (Regular, Reserve, Auxiliary and Civilian, including non-appropriated fund activity employees) are eligible.The action or accomplishment performed by the team or group must be comparable to that which would merit the Commandant's Letter of Commendation ribbon (or higher) to an individual. To qualify for this award, a member of a team or group must have made a significant contribution to the overall team effort. MoreHide
Criteria This ribbon recognizes the important contributions made by teams and groups below the unit OPFAC level; i.e., boat and aircraft crews, staff elements, Quality Action Teams, etc. All Coast Guard person... This ribbon recognizes the important contributions made by teams and groups below the unit OPFAC level; i.e., boat and aircraft crews, staff elements, Quality Action Teams, etc. All Coast Guard personnel (Regular, Reserve, Auxiliary and Civilian, including non-appropriated fund activity employees) are eligible.The action or accomplishment performed by the team or group must be comparable to that which would merit the Commandant's Letter of Commendation ribbon (or higher) to an individual. To qualify for this award, a member of a team or group must have made a significant contribution to the overall team effort. MoreHide
Description
Special Honor Team - Change of Command for Admiral Breckenridge
Criteria This ribbon recognizes the important contributions made by teams and groups below the unit OPFAC level; i.e., boat and aircraft crews, staff elements, Quality Action Teams, etc. All Coast Guard person... This ribbon recognizes the important contributions made by teams and groups below the unit OPFAC level; i.e., boat and aircraft crews, staff elements, Quality Action Teams, etc. All Coast Guard personnel (Regular, Reserve, Auxiliary and Civilian, including non-appropriated fund activity employees) are eligible.The action or accomplishment performed by the team or group must be comparable to that which would merit the Commandant's Letter of Commendation ribbon (or higher) to an individual. To qualify for this award, a member of a team or group must have made a significant contribution to the overall team effort. MoreHide
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Description
Has Operation Katrina Attachment - huricane
Best Friends
CWO4 Robert May, CWO4 Tom Cierley, Major John Wemett, Major Jim Watson, Sgt. Marc Pulley (now Captain Pulley), GySgt Donna Dawson & CWO4 Ralph Dawson, CWO4 Wayne Benson, Captain Mike Bogna, Captain Steve De Lazaro, Major Jeff Josserand, MSGT Ritter, GySgt Davis.
Best Moment
All of Them
Worst Moment
Retiring. Hanging up Deuce Gear for the last time and joining the ranks of the retired.
Chain of Command
Major Wemett, Btry C.O., Major Josserand, Bn. XO, LtCol Beavers, Bn C.O.
Other Memories
Finished 23 years in the battaion and served in "C" Btry, H&S Btry Det B, and H&S Btry (-). Held billets as Btry Supply Chief, Det OIC, Motor T Maint./Ops Officer, Embarkation Officer, HAWK Missile Officer, Ground Supply Officer. Served numerous site commanders in San Jose, CA, Hayward,CA, and Fresno, CA. Mobilized with Bn for Desert Storm and wished I was younger when OIF and OEF came along. A way of life, an attitude, a pride, and friends for life. What more could a Marine request. Semper Fi.
Best Friends
CWO4 Bob May, CWO4 Tom Cierley, CWO4 Wayne Benson, CWO4 Ralph Dawson, CWO3 Dan Payne, Maj Wemett, Maj VomBauer,Maj Watson, Maj Swanson, MSGT Lambrena, GYSGT Valdovinos, SGT Pulley, CPL Micallef, MGYSGT Sentieri, MSGT Ritter, GYSGT Davis, and many more
Best Moment
All Marine Corps time. Would do it all again but even better.
Worst Moment
Deactivation of 4th LAAM BN and transfer to TMD Det of MWSS 473. Whole new unit and no problem with unit or C.O., just not enough time to retrain in new MOS to retain billet.
Chain of Command
Acting Site C.O. Major Glover - Temporary billet until MWSS 473 Officers arrived and new Site C.O. arrived.
Other Memories
New faces replacing those old familiar faces as Officers left for other units or MTU's due to changing unit structure. Retirements for a number of SNCO's & officers.
Best Friends
CWO4 Bob May, CWO4 Wayne Benson, Capt Edwards, Capt DeLazaro, LtCol Crockford, Maj Wemett, Capt Watson, Capt Vombauer,
Best Moment
Many with Marines working under my supervision. Miss them all.
Worst Moment
Leave MTO Billet to return to Primary MOS as Ass't Bn SUPO. After 14 years as 3510 had to re-learn primary duties in system that had changed dramatically. Deactivation of Battalion in 09/97 led to retirement in 02/98
Chain of Command
Btry CO's: Major Crockford, Major Classen, Major Wemett. Bn CO's: LtCol Cavazos, LtCol Ortiz, LtCol Beavers.
Other Memories
Final marksmanship qualifications are Sharpshooter Rifle and Sharpshooter Pistol
Other Memories
Served at 3 sites in Charlie Btry in San Jose, CA 1976 - 1979, H&S Btry (-)Detachment B in San Jose and Hayward, CA 1979 - 1991, and H&S Battry (-) in Fresno, CA 1991 - 1998. Numerous Site Commanders who were also RS to me.
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal is awarded to members of the Marine Corps Reserve who, subsequent to July 1, 1925, have fulfilled certain designated military service requirements. Effective Ja... The Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal is awarded to members of the Marine Corps Reserve who, subsequent to July 1, 1925, have fulfilled certain designated military service requirements. Effective January 1, 1996, the qualifying period of eligibility is three years of service in the Marine Corps Reserve. MoreHide
Best Moment
Excellent Course with 50 -50 class makeup of Marine and Naval Officers from all types of units - both ground and air (both USN & USMC) and Amphibious Ship Commanders. Exercise was real world.
Other Memories
Great Hooters in Virginia Beach. Fellowship night out with Navy.
Best Moment
All of them. Great experience working with Heavy Motor Vehicle shop.
Other Memories
Supervised Heavy Motor T Maintenance Shop for two week period while OIC detached to Division operation. This was an Engine Shop rebuilding engines for AAV's, wreckers, 5 T trucks, etc. Visited SSgt Gutierrez at Balboa Naval Medical Center - great to see him again.
Best Friends
CWO4 Bob May, Major Gary Anderson, Major Kevin Crockford, Capt John Wemett, Capt Black.
Best Moment
Transfer to H&S Btry, 4th LAAM Bn to become Bn Motor Transport Officer - Operations Chief. Mobilization for Operation Desert Storm. All Marines came home at end of mobilization.
Worst Moment
Discovery that one of my Marines was gravely ill.
Chain of Command
Major Gary Anderson Btry C.O., LtCol Norton Bn C.O., Colonel Bachiller Group C.O.
Other Memories
Outstanding performance of all Marines in Motor T during mobilization. 81 Marines working under my supervision, 145 vehicles, 500,000 accident free miles of operations accident free. Recognition from 2nd LAAM Bn MTO for work we had completed on their vehicles while they were in Kuwait.
Best Friends
CWO4 Bob May, WO David Jordan, CWO4 Frank Miglin, Major Gary Anderson, MSGT Mike Bowden, MGYSGT Sentieri
Best Moment
Mobilization of Battalion for duty during Desert Storm. Of 400 called, 398 reported for duty. Set new Bn record for safe vehicle ops (500,000 mi), put 55 of 2nd LAAM Bn vehicles back on the road during their time in Kuwait.
Worst Moment
When one of my Marines had to be sent to Balboa to resolve a life threatening condition.
Other Memories
All Marines returned home safe and 2nd LAAM very pleased with condition of their motor pool facilities, equipment we left for them and the 55 operating vehicles returned to road worthy condition.
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal is awarded to members of the Marine Corps Reserve who, subsequent to July 1, 1925, have fulfilled certain designated military service requirements. Effective Ja... The Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal is awarded to members of the Marine Corps Reserve who, subsequent to July 1, 1925, have fulfilled certain designated military service requirements. Effective January 1, 1996, the qualifying period of eligibility is three years of service in the Marine Corps Reserve. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Description On January 16, 1991, President George H. W. Bush announced the start of what would be called Operation Desert Storm—a military operation to expel occupying Iraqi forces from Kuwait, which Iraq had invOn January 16, 1991, President George H. W. Bush announced the start of what would be called Operation Desert Storm—a military operation to expel occupying Iraqi forces from Kuwait, which Iraq had invaded and annexed months earlier. For weeks, a U.S.-led coalition of two dozen nations had positioned more than 900,000 troops in the region, most stationed on the Saudi-Iraq border. A U.N.-declared deadline for withdrawal passed on January 15, with no action from Iraq, so coalition forces began a five-week bombardment of Iraqi command and control targets from air and sea. Despite widespread fears that Iraqi President Saddam Hussein might order the use of chemical weapons, a ground invasion followed in February. Coalition forces swiftly drove Iraq from Kuwait, advancing into Iraq, and reaching a cease-fire within 100 hours—controversially leaving Saddam Hussein in power. While coalition casualties were in the hundreds, Iraqi losses numbered in the tens of thousands.... More
People You Remember LtCol Norton, Major Walls, Major Anderson, Capt Wemett, CWO4 May, WO-1 Jordan, Capt Crockford, MgySgLtCol Norton, Major Walls, Major Anderson, Capt Wemett, CWO4 May, WO-1 Jordan, Capt Crockford, MgySgt Sentieri, 1st SGT Pelcic, CWO3 Miglin, Capt Black, and many other fine Marine Officers, SNCO's and junior Marines. ... More
Memories 4th LAAM Bn mobilized to relieve 2nd LAAM Bn at MCAS Yuma and prepare for embarkation to middle east4th LAAM Bn mobilized to relieve 2nd LAAM Bn at MCAS Yuma and prepare for embarkation to middle east. Unit set up at Chocolate Mountain and exceeded CMC requirements for operational readiness, range qualifications, and equipment readiness. Prepared to depart March 1, 1991 for Kuwait to relieve 2nd LAAM Bn but war ended February 27, 1991. Battalion held in Yuma to continue training and to work on 2nd LAAM Bn equipment until their return in late March. Departed MCAS Yuma on April 1, 1991 for return to BnHQ at Fresno, CA and demobed on April 15, 1991. ... More
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Best Moment
Movement to Hayward, CA and larger motor pool and all new vehicles. Turned in old 2.5T for new 5T trucks, new wrecker, new MT Chief. Promotion to CWO4.
Chain of Command
Capt S. Hubble Site Commander RS, Major Bill Prather Site Commander RS
Other Memories
Two Motor T Schools for new vehicles at Camp Lejeune. Appointment as Embarkation Officer and School in Coronado, CA.
Best Moment
Completion of load program. Dinners out with other students.
Chain of Command
Embarkation School at Coronado Naval Amphibious Base.
Other Memories
Class was great and school was excellent. Our class was the first of a two year eveolution by USN and USMC for Reserve Officer/Enlisted personnel. Successful completion allowed program to continue. Attended first year with cast on left leg from knee down and only one ever allowed to do so. Can see boot in graduation picture.
Criteria The Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal is awarded to members of the Marine Corps Reserve who, subsequent to July 1, 1925, have fulfilled certain designated military service requirements. Effective Ja... The Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal is awarded to members of the Marine Corps Reserve who, subsequent to July 1, 1925, have fulfilled certain designated military service requirements. Effective January 1, 1996, the qualifying period of eligibility is three years of service in the Marine Corps Reserve. MoreHide
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Description
Three Awards - Two for HAWK Missile operations and one for Desert Shield/Desert Storm
Criteria The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need n... The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need not be consecutive, if it was performed within a period of twelve consecutive years. For the purpose of this award service as a member of a Reserve component MoreHide
Comments
Have both bronze hourglass and "M" attachments
Best Moment
Working with new STA-ICE equipment. Tuning Jeep and learning about new 5 Ton vehicles and driving them. MTO not normall alooed to drive so this was good chance to know what drivers would experice with new auto trans vehicles.
Chain of Command
LtCol Brown was School C.O., Major Box was X.O. Both LDO's who were in Motor T as enlisted. Motor Transport Officers 5 Ton Vehicle Course.
Other Memories
More time in the Roach Hilton. First experience with golf ball sized hail. Trashed roommates Lincoln Towncar it was so heavy. Good Club hours and fellowship with classmates and C.O.
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal is awarded to members of the Marine Corps Reserve who, subsequent to July 1, 1925, have fulfilled certain designated military service requirements. Effective Ja... The Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal is awarded to members of the Marine Corps Reserve who, subsequent to July 1, 1925, have fulfilled certain designated military service requirements. Effective January 1, 1996, the qualifying period of eligibility is three years of service in the Marine Corps Reserve. MoreHide
Criteria The Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal is awarded to members of the Marine Corps Reserve who, subsequent to July 1, 1925, have fulfilled certain designated military service requirements. Effective Ja... The Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal is awarded to members of the Marine Corps Reserve who, subsequent to July 1, 1925, have fulfilled certain designated military service requirements. Effective January 1, 1996, the qualifying period of eligibility is three years of service in the Marine Corps Reserve. MoreHide
Best Friends
Major Boardman (XO and civilian employer), Captain Roland B. Field (Section OIC and mentor). Captain John Snead 1973 to 1976 (Ass't Site Commander - 3rd ANGLICO, friend and mentor)
Best Moment
Graduating from California State University Long Beach with BA degree. Starting family and career in finance field.
Worst Moment
Finality of Discharge. Leaving to go to college full time. Having to work and attend full time schedule for school, left no time for Corps involvement but reinforced goal to return.
Chain of Command
Period of time not under contract while attending college at Long Beach Community College and California State University, Long Beach.
Other Memories
Member of the Judging & Awards Committee for the Torrance Armed Forces Day Parade 1973 - 1974 and 1975. Nations largest such parade at that time. Worked with a number of Marine Officers - Active/Reserve - and this stimulated my return to USMCR service for period of 02/75 to 02/98. Captain John Snead became my mentor and friend and helped to get me back on the program and oriented towards goal of becoming a Warrant Officer.
Description Operation Shufly was from 9 Apr 1962 through 30 November 1964. Marine Task Unit 79.3.5, code named SHUFLY was the first Marine Task Unit to provide air support during the Vietnam War beginning in 1962Operation Shufly was from 9 Apr 1962 through 30 November 1964. Marine Task Unit 79.3.5, code named SHUFLY was the first Marine Task Unit to provide air support during the Vietnam War beginning in 1962. The tasking represented the first large unit commitment of a Marine unit to Vietnam during the anti-communist struggle in Southeast Asia.
The mission was to provide assault support, offensive air support and air reconnaissance, with primary objective being troop lift and resupply to United States Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (USMACV) and the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) forces engaged in combat operations. The challenges experienced while in Soc Trang established tactics and procedures still used by Marine helicopter units today.
HMM-362 (Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron) and Marine Air Base Squadron 16, Sub Unit 2 were the first units to deploy in Operation SHUFLY. New squadrons rotated in approximately every four months until 1965 when the United States' involvement in Vietnam drastically increased. Each squadron was deployed on a four-month rotation with four months in Okinawa, Japan, four months aboard ship and four months in Vietnam. The SHUFLY rotation included:
USMC Squadron Time of Rotation
MABS-16, Sub Unit 2 9 Apr 1962 – 30 Nov 1964
HMM-362 9 Apr 1962 – 31 Jul 1962
HMM-163 1 Aug 1962 – 11 Jan 1963
HMM-162 12 Jan – 6 Jun 1963, 1 Jul – 7 Oct 1964
HMM-261 7 Jun 1963 – 30 Sep 1963
HMM-361 1 Oct 1963 – 31 Jan 1964
HMM-364 1 Feb 1964 – 30 Jun 1964
HMM-365 8 Oct 1964 – 30 Nov 1964
As a direct result of SHUFLY, the Marine Corps gained valuable experience and knowledge in the tactics of helicopter troop lifts that would prove beneficial in later combat operations involving American troops.... More
People You Remember No direct combat operations as involved in support role aboard USS Princeton LPH-5. Marine Air Det No direct combat operations as involved in support role aboard USS Princeton LPH-5. Marine Air Det supporting Marine Helicopter Squadrons delivered to Vietnam and retrieved. Delivered first Marine Helo Squadron HMM 362 into Soc Trang on April 15, 1962. Returned to Vietnam numerous times in support of Operation Shufly. Also participated in Operation Tolungan with Thailand in 1962.... More
Memories Ship also carried parts of floating battalion and a Helicopter Squadron HMM 261 on board at all timeShip also carried parts of floating battalion and a Helicopter Squadron HMM 261 on board at all times. Time spent in waters qualified crew for VSM and VCM.... More
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Criteria The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Natio... The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Nations or friendly foreign nations MoreHide
Comments
Quemoy - Matsu Islands incident at Taiwan
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Comments
Service in Operation Shufly 1962 and 1963. Star is actually for one campaign.
Description
Communist Chinese artillery fired 82 shells on Quemoy and Matsu Islands.
People You Remember Officers and crew of the USS Princeton LPH-5 All USS Princeton Veterans who served as we sailed up anOfficers and crew of the USS Princeton LPH-5 All USS Princeton Veterans who served as we sailed up and down the "Formosa Straits" between Mainland (Red) China and the Islands to prevent the continuation of the shelling. ... More
Memories Crazy times and crazy places. From the shores of Vietnam to the shores of Taiwan and still in HarmsCrazy times and crazy places. From the shores of Vietnam to the shores of Taiwan and still in Harms Way. Koahsiung, however, was a welcome respite from sailing back and forth (rice beer was new and interesting). At the time Taiwan was under martial law and there was a strictly enforced midnight to 0500 curfew and violators were shot on sight - no question asked. Almost lost a crewman who didn't get back to the pier in time and the OOD could not look for him because Taiwan Marines were patrolling and he too would have been shot. Taiwan later issued two awards to participants in the "Badge of Honor" and the US - ROC Mutual Defense Commemorative Medal/ribbon.... More
Best Friends
Bill McLean, Jim McFadden, Chot Lancaster, Tom Wells
Best Moment
Celebrating promotion to CPL in Hong Kong. Service in Vietnamese waters, Quemoy - Matsu Islands Incident, Liberty throughout the Far East. Olongapo - Land of the big PX - where the sea and the sewer met.
Worst Moment
Atomic Tests in 1962 - Operation Dominic.
Chain of Command
MSGT Spaulding, Lt King USN, Lt Starbuck USN, Ens Morrissey USN, Lt Patrick USN. LtCol Bardon USMC Air Officer, LtCol Pope USMC Air Offcer, Capt T.H. Davie USN, Capt Smith USN, Capt Boyum USN.
Other Memories
Running Marine Corps PRT on Flight Deck. Aircraft Handling - moving from Hangar to Flight Deck
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Best Friends
Verlie Robinson, Bill Parsons, David McVey
Best Moment
End of Cold Weather Training - for a kid who grew up in the desert this 30 day stint in tents was the coldest I have ever been. Canvas cots over mud floors and diesel pot bellied stoves not made for comfort in 15 below zero conditions.
Worst Moment
No bad moments for training. Excellent training program and instructors even if it was cold. Great place for Combat Engineers and practicing rigging skills. Have a better appreciation for what allied forces experienced in Europe.
Chain of Command
1st Lt. J.P. Jadlos, Plt Ldr.
Other Memories
Cold weather shower tent so cold the soap dried and stuck to you before you could get it rinsed off. Standing chow tables in a tent so cold your food would get too cold to eat.
Best Moment
Liberty Call. Finally - access to Oceanside/town/girls. Same today as it was then, just bigger.
Worst Moment
Caught sitting down on fire watch - eventually we all get it right. Had to see Commanding Officer and was blessed with a good one. Gave me option of his punishment - NJP - or the First Sergeants punishment. Chose the First Sergeant and he showed me the wages of stupidity with 11 days of restriction and extra duty for the Fisrt Sergeant. Action helped me to guide my own actions in later years and giving my junior Marines the same choice.
Chain of Command
Major Green, Commanding Officer
Other Memories
Learned one can lose his paycheck in seconds when palying cards with senior Marines (CPL's & Sgt's) when you don't know the game. That Amtracs do float and that going off the back of an LSD can be a scary event when not prepared.
Worst Moment
Getting Walking pneumonia 3 weeks into training.
Chain of Command
Mike Company.
Other Memories
Too many years ago to remember details but seems hurry up and wait took on new meaning - run five miles to be early so we could do pushups until class began. Humping Mt. Agony (AKA Mt MFer) was a whole new experience.
CWO4 Robert May, CWO4 Tom Cierley, Major John Wemett, Major Jim Watson, Sgt. Marc Pulley (now Captain Pulley), GySgt Donna Dawson & CWO4 Ralph Dawson, CWO4 Wayne Benson, Captain Mike Bogna, Captain Steve De Lazaro, Major Jeff Josserand, MSGT Ritter, GySgt Davis.
All of Them
Retiring. Hanging up Deuce Gear for the last time and joining the ranks of the retired.
Major Wemett, Btry C.O., Major Josserand, Bn. XO, LtCol Beavers, Bn C.O.
Finished 23 years in the battaion and served in "C" Btry, H&S Btry Det B, and H&S Btry (-). Held billets as Btry Supply Chief, Det OIC, Motor T Maint./Ops Officer, Embarkation Officer, HAWK Missile Officer, Ground Supply Officer. Served numerous site commanders in San Jose, CA, Hayward,CA, and Fresno, CA. Mobilized with Bn for Desert Storm and wished I was younger when OIF and OEF came along. A way of life, an attitude, a pride, and friends for life. What more could a Marine request. Semper Fi.