Membership
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Battalion Lineage

Obituaries

History of the 17th

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Name:  Bob Bethel
Email: rbethel55@aol.com
Phone: 9099475255
Date:  12/29/2010

Comments: Hi, I served with  2/17-A Battery (105mm towed) at LZ "Action" outside An Khe, Viet Nam from 1968-1969. Would like to hear from others who spent time at LZ "Action". Happy New years,

Name: Richard Smith -Chaplain
Email: rsmith3024@nc.rr.com
Phone: 919-575-0213
Date:  12/29/2010

Comments:   I'm looking forward to seeing everyone this upcoming year in Gettysburg.  I took my daughter there about 10-11 years ago and you can make an easy three day vacation between the Amish country around Strasbourg, Hershey, where all the Chocolate candy is made with their tour, candy store and amusement park for you kids at hand, and Gettysburg itself.  (Eisenhower's farm is there but we didn't get time to see that.) May the Spirit of Christmas remain in all of us throughout the upcoming year 2011!
God Bless and Happy New Year!

Name:  Garibay
Email: theattache@aol.com
Phone: 915-755-4038
Date:  12/20/10

Comments: I remember December 25, 1969. Merry Christmas to all the C Battery, 1/17th who served with me near Mickey Mouse Corner that Xmas Day. God Bless you.

Name:  SHEPHERD
Email: shepherd727@gmail.com
Phone: 7249472519
Date:  12-19-2010

Comments: To all RED LEGS......MERRY CHRISTMAS.....LETS KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS....
MAY YOU ALL FIND PEACE ON THIS EARTH, AND HOPE FOR A MUCH BETTER NEW YEAR... YOU WILL ALL BE IN MY PRAYERS.... I AM NOT WITH YOU ANY-LONGER IN BOOTS BUT ALWAYS WITH YOU IN SPIRIT

SHEP
LM-109

Name:  Rahman Saunders
Email: ensightmediagroup@gmail.com
Phone: 704-400-3896
Date:  1995-1996

Comments: I served in 2/17 In Korea 1995-1996 Would love to get in contact with some of my brothers... Sgt Martinez was the best!!!!

Name:      Charles McConnell
Email: mcconnellcharles700@gmail.com
Phone: 724-712-1813
Date:  12/01/10a

Comments:  A look back at the history of the 17th FA Bn. On Nov 26 1950 57 years ago the Persuaders were supporting the 2nd Inf Div at Kunu-ri. An unexpected attack by the Chinese Army overran 2 batteries of the 61st Fa Bn. This Bn was 4000 yds forward of the Persuaders; by dawn of Nov 30 missions were being fired at 2500 yds with a charge 1.Battery A was laid for direct fire as enemy troops were located 500 yds from the battery position. On the afternoon of Nov 30 the Persuaders began their withdrawal from Kunu-ri. I was with Hq&Hq Battery as the wire Sgt in charge of the wire section. Good Luck and God bless all.

Name:  James R Boney
Email: Jboney@comcast.net
Phone: 609-788-8013
Date:  30 nov 2010

Comments: Hi all! I was with the 1/17 HHB at Camp McIntyre ROK 1968 to 1969. Looking for anyone from that time and place.

Name:  wally jones
Email: Wjones46@cox.net
Phone: 8606284939
Date:  11/29/10

Comments: Served with HHB 2/17 april 67 til April 68  would be proud to join "our organization. Please send info

Name:  Charles Mc Connell
Email: mcconnellcharles700@gmail.com
Phone: 724-712-1813
Date:  11/29/10

Comments: I served with the 17th latter part of 1949 and 1950. we shipped out of Ft. Sill august 1950 on a troop train bound for Camp Stoneman Calif., then boarded the General John Pope bound for Korea.  served from Aug 1950 to Aug 1951 in Korea. I am looking for anybody that served at that time.

Name:  Lyn Hartman
Email: basshunter@hotmail.com
Phone: 509-684-3837
Date:  11/27/11

Comments: Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving holiday.  Stan it has been great talking with you and Doug too.  Looking forward to more contacts.

Name:  Stan Stanton
Email: neatstuff1@aol.com
Phone: 616-538-3807
Date:   21 nov. 2010

Comments:

WHAT THANKSGIVING DAY IS REALLY ABOUT

In America, the First Thanksgiving Was a Sincere Act of Joyous Celebration. The Pilgrim company had survived the winter and harvested sufficient to feel themselves bountifully blest. "1 O give thanks unto the LORD, for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever. 2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom He hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy; 3 and gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south. 4 They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in. 5 Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them. 6 Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and He delivered them out of their distresses. 7 And He led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation. 8 Oh that men would praise the LORD for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! 9 For He satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness" (Psalm 107:1-9). 

The Pilgrims disdained all manmade holidays, and held only to the weekly Sabbath and the specially appointed days of fasting (occasioned by drought, war, etc.) and days of thanksgiving (enacted due to such events as the drought ending rainfall of 1623). And technically, they did not consider their celebration under one of those headings. But practically, the First Thanksgiving was a spontaneous and sincere act of rejoicing "with joy unspeakable" (2Peter 1:8) in the bounty that the Almighty had spared them to enjoy. 

Only two eyewitness accounts were made of what we now would call the First Thanksgiving-- in William Bradford's "Of Plymouth Plantation" (1630-1650) and Edward Winslow's "Mourt's Relation" (1622). Recording the circumstances that led to the First Thanksgiving, Governor Bradford wrote: "They began now to gather in the small harvest they had, and to fit up their houses and dwellings against winter, being all well recovered in health and strength and had all things in good plenty. For as some were thus employed in affairs abroad, others were exercised in fishing, about cod and bass and other fish, of which they took good store, of which every family had their portion. 

All the summer there was no want; and now began to come in store of fowl, as winter approached, of which this place did abound when they came first (but afterward decreased by degrees). And besides waterfowl there was a great store of wild turkeys, of which they took many, besides venison, etc. Besides they had about a peck a meal a week to a person, or now since harvest, Indian corn to the proportion. Which made many afterwards write so largely of their plenty here to their friends in England, which were not feigned but true reports" (from "Of Plymouth Plantation").
I HOPE ALL OF OUR BROTHERS HAVE GREAT THANKSGIVING !  

Stan, B 2/17  1969-1970

Name:  Paul Fusco
Email:
Phone: ----------
Date:  11/12/2010

Comments: Happy Thanksgiving To All!!

Name:  Floyd Mc Williams
Email: fmclittleman@cox.net
Phone: 623-512-6682
Date:  11/10/2010

Comments: Just found this site I was with this unit ("C" Btry. 2nd Bn. 17th Arty) for a short time in 66 01/09/66 to 04/27/66 got send home after I got hurt driving my Mule (no brakes) Just thought I would post something here to say Hi. Wish I could have stayed longer with all the guys.

Floyd

Name:  Rich Siebe
Email: r47s89sp@aol.com
Phone: 9167986329
Date:  11/1/2020

Comments: I would like to Thank all that attended the Reunion in Pigeon Forge this year. It was one of the best attended Reunions yet. I would also like to those that gave generously to our Scholarship Fund. We did quite well this year. See you in Gettysburg next year.

Rich Siebe
Treasurer
17th Artillery Regiment Association

Name:  Paul V Shepherd
Email: shepherd727@gmail.com
Phone: 4123350053
Date:  10/27/10

Comments: To all my brothers in arms, Please excuse me for not being at Pigeon Forge, I have again had health and other issues, that will not allow me to attend, In the meaning of true friendship, and Camaraderie, RAM ONE HOME FOR ME!!!!!!!!!!God Bless, and Peace too all.

Shep / 69 lm-109

Name:  Thomas R. Kurtz
Email: kurtz_t@comcast.net
Phone: 217-732-4357
Date:  October 13, 2010

Comments: For all of you Facebook Fans. The 2-17 FAR now has a Facebook page at
"2-17 Field Artillery "Steel" Joint Base Lewis-McCord, WA". Also Rich Siebe has a Facebook page for all 17th Field Artillery Regiment Veterans at "17th Field Artillery Regiment Veterans". Check them out.

Name:  Norman R. Jones
Email: AnKhe2nd17FA68@aol.com
Phone: 5127058891
Date:  10/10/2010

Comments: This is just a reminder that the 2010 annual reunion is just a couple of weeks away. I hope all veterans, family members and friends of the 17th Field Artillery Regiment that are able will attend. The 2010 reunion will be held from Wednesday, October 27, 2010 through Friday, October 29, 2010 with the annual membership meeting and banquet on Saturday, October 30, 2010. The location for the reunion is at the Country Cascades, 204 Sharon Drive, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. click here for details. Motel Reservations can still be made.

Name:  Cpl.Thomas Michaelis "A" Battery 2/17th. Arty.
Email: tomich47@att.net
Phone: 3105306403
Date:  October 7, 2010

Comments: We built LZ Action in 1968. Was previously across Hwy. 19. I was in the 5th. howitzer section from May 68' to July 69. "A" Battery 2/17Th. Artillery. "The goat battery". God we hated that goat! Smoke loved him. I put up the California flag on our hooch in 69'. Drop me a line bros!

Name:  Lyn Hartman
Email: basshunter@hotmail.com
Phone: 509-684-3837
Date:  10/7/2010

Comments: How many guys that were at FB Colgan in Dalat knew that on the top of Pic Robin Mountain, the mountain we were on, there was two 155mm field pieces above us.  How many of you ever heard them fire their guns?

Name:  LTC Dennis Smith
Email: dennis.smith5@us.army.mil
Phone: 2539669670
Date:  4 October 2010

Comments:

Thanks to the 17th FA Association for the generous donation you made to the 3-17 FA "Stryke First" Battalion to support post-deployment activities for our families. Our Soldiers performed extremely well under, at times, very austere conditions in Southern Afghanistan supporting 5/2 SBCT. We have created another population of artilleryman who understand how to put the round where it belongs! Thanks Again.-- Dennis

Name:  Crl Trammell
Email: old.man.1947@hotmail.com
Phone: 865-621-6616
Date:  Oct.3,2010

Comments: I would appreciate any info about Sgt. (Kenneth?) Freo of D/C Battery 2/17 1967-68. also Pvt. J.J. Hunter of same era.
Thanks
Carl Trammell

Name:  Richard Smith- Chaplain 17th Artillery Regiment Assoc.
Email: rsmith3024@nc.rr.com
Phone: 919-575-0213
Date:  Aug. 31, 2010

Comments: I hope all of you are doing well and looking forward to the upcoming reunion.  Today was a day that I will cherish for a long time.  I have been in the hospital for ten days and a rehab facility for three days.  I 've known that I had some back problems but I didn't know they were going to get larger.  A few weeks ago I had a CAT scan which showed a bulging disc around L-5 and S-1 not to mention two degenerative discs that I knew  I had as well from  the 31 lbs I wore daily as a cop for almost 19 years.

My Dr. who has treated me over the last 14 years for the disease in my right foot and ankle arranged for me to have a double lumbar block on Thursday Aug. 19.  (This only made my 22nd block since 1996)  Everything went well until 2 1/2 hours after the block my left leg (my good one for those of you that know me) collapsed on me.  They tried a few different meds but nothing worked.  Needless to say I was admitted that evening and remained there until this past Saturday, nine days later in the hospital.  My left leg would only shake when I tried to move it.  Two more CAT scans were done and none of the Dr.'s could determine what went wrong other than possibly some of the steroid from the injection had gone into some nerves of my left leg.  I refused to believe that I was going to lose the use of both of my legs!  PT was done as much as possible and a lot of higher dosage meds were given before they decided to send me to a rehabilitation center last Saturday.

My Dr. told me he thought the effects would be temporary but he could not tell me how long temporary would be, a day, a week, a month, who knew.  Sunday I started getting some normal movement back into it again and by this afternoon (Tuesday) I was having myself checked out and driven home by an RN at that.  These had to be about the scariest 13 days of my life especially when I had already lost 70% use of my right foot and ankle in a car wreck on duty back in June 1996.
I'm not ashamed to say it and I say it proudly, "My Faith kept me going."  I don't know yet if my back will permit me to make the 6 1/2hour trip to Pigeon Forge this year or not but my thoughts will be with each of you.

Name:  Rich Siebe
Email: r47s89sp@aol.com
Phone: 9164861890
Date:  8/18/2010

Comments:  I received a phone call from John Matsumoto about a friend of his, Iwao Matsunami, who died 8/2/2010. Iwao served with C/1/17 in the early '70s and John is trying to find any information so he can to share with the family. If you can provide any info on how to find that information he would appreciate it.

John Matsumoto, 638 Bridge St., Watsonville, Ca. 95076, (831) 722-1076

Name:  James Deno
Email: jmartd@ffni.com
Phone: 219-275-6953
Date:  14 August 2010

Comments: Was clerk for Battery C. 17TH Field Artillery Battalion at Camp St. Barbara, Korea back in 1955 and 56. Still searching for personnel from C Battery. Would like to hear from any one.  Some good and some bad memories from there. Did help remodel the Catholic chapel. Still remember Father Philips (sp). Having our 7th reunion in Sep this year. Lets hear from you. Getting along in years, so make it soon.

Name:  Paul V Shepherd Sr  (Shep)
Email: shepherd727@gmail.com
Phone: 4123350053
Date:  08-05-10

Comments: Well the Fat Lady Sang, as of August 01, I am officially OUT, of the Army, after twenty Seven Years out of Forty Two, I guess it is about time, The Army and The Guard are not what they used to be.

Too many toys to play with, and God Forbid they loose, the Plug to the computers, The SHIT WILL HIT THE FAN!!!!!!!!!!!!  PUSH BUTTON WARFARE…… GRUNTS out of STAR-WARS, 0900 to 1700 Work Days, crying because the AC is Broke, What have we done!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I can’t say that I will miss; the games, and POLITICAL CORRECTNESS, but I will miss my people, In the past few days I have, attempted to re-Connect with My People, again, I recently spoke with Keister, Curt and I served on # 6 out of Schueller, and Action Rear, and out on LZ Trudy, Yes LZ Trudy Really did Happen, I know because George Winton Verified my memories, even though we CAN NOT find any Official Records of our First Mission, to the LINE , Nixon said we NEVER CROSSED, in 69, although I have sometimes thought I dreamed those days, The photos that I and others took, really did happen, The Shrapnel from the Air Force Bombs, dropped just beyond the hill, The ARVN who got Bailey rigged back to the LZ, when he got hit, the 42 days we ate slept, fired and dug 15 foot sandbag holes, got rained on, ate c-rats…morning, noon, and night.  And captured all those brand new weapons, still in causmoline, and marked with Chinese Markings, all the Missions we fired in support of 5th SF personnel,  The conditions at the 175 base owned by the 5/22 they dropped us on, when we came out, in the middle of September 69, 32 Americans, and xx Mountards and XXX ARVINS, ( the ARVINS were considered EXPENDABLE)   If we were required to De De Mao, in a Fire Fight, Never did we realize that the Last LZ we were to occupy would be later noted in the record books as the Shangri-La of Vietnam, Dalat City, was considered by all the Vietnamese as a RESORT AREA,  in fact Uncle Ho himself is supposed to have put the word out to all good little NVA…..No touch DALAT CITY,  Only MACV, and the ACADEMY , and the Airfield, and American Bases were to be TOUCHED.

Well we are making progress, locating personnel,  B-2/17 FA Schueller/Airmobile/Dalat
George Winton Cpt BC Found 
John Bradley Lt Ex  Missing
Tim Tucker Lt FDO Found 
1sgt Perez Missing
Richard (Stan) Stanford Found 
Rod Taylor LT/FDO  Fld Missing
Paul V Shepherd Found 
Gerald Brown Tonawanda Ny Missing
Doug Runice Found 
Walter F Stokes Pa/ Eugene OR Missing
Mike  Klingman Found 
Dennis Harlin PA Missing
Albert Alberico Found 
RAMJET) Rodgers Missing
Curt Keister Found 
James Knowles OK/AR Missing
Mike Dagges Found 
Garcia Missing
Harry Fetsik Found 
No-Contact Danny Reeves  Tru-Fetsik Missing
Duane Freil  Detroit-Area) Missing 
Luke Thru-Fetsik Missing
David (Georgia-Boy) Bryant  KIA DECEASED 
Horse  (Killed at Home) DECEASED
William Vanhorn (Tucker) Lost again Missing 
Michael Weaver Missing
Anyone knowing any possible INFO on people please contact me  @ shepherd727@gmail.com    or 412 335 0053 Lv-Message
Or on FACE Book Paul V Shepherd

Name:  Thomas R. Kurtz
Email: kurtz_t@comcast.net
Phone: 217-732-4357
Date:  August 5, 2010

Comments: The 1st Battalion, 17th Field Artillery Regiment (Copperheads) have deployed to Afghanistan and the battalion is scattered all over the country. If any veterans are interested in supporting the battalion by sending cards, packages, etc, please contact me or any association officer, they have the list of where the elements of the battalion are located. This the first deployment of the battalion to Afghanistan, as all prior deployments have been to Iraq. Even as the combat troops are being pulled out of Iraq; the War on Terrorism still continues and our support for the soldiers should not stop.

Name:  Lyn Hartman
Email: basshunter@hotmail.com
Phone: 509-684-3837
Date:  7/25/10

Comments: I was in Dalat with Provisional Artillery Group.  Prov Arty shared the same building with HQ B 2/17.  I have some pictures and lots of memories.

Name:  Rudy Powell
Email: Powell20@cox.net
Phone: 7573392851
Date:  7/23/10

Comments: Served in the 7/17 in Korea in the artillery survey unit in 1970 to about May 1971. Remember the camp fairly well and the damn cold winter of 70.  I think the town right outside the camp was Sunra-ri but can't seem to find it on any maps.  Just a hello to all you vets out there.

Email: shepherd727@gmail.com
Phone: 4123350053
Date:  07-21-10

Comments:  To all My Brothers, Hello, Greetings, as of NOW I am A SINGLE DIGIT MIDGET
Nine days and a WAKEUP......and I am OFFICIALLY RETIRED...........
But that is not important, I am writing to inform all, If you are not aware, in 1974 General Order Number 8 was Published, Authorizing the award of the Vietnamese Cross Of Gallantry Ribbon W/Palm Device to all personnel serving under MACV Command from 8 February, 1962 To and inclusive 28 March, 1973, this was to include ALL IFFV, 41st 52nd Artillery Groups, and subordinate Units....You may request that all your awards be amended to reflect this Award, simply by contacting St. Louis Personnel Center, or Applying on line. http://www.archives/contact/
Hope to see you soon.

Shep

Name:  Larry (DOC) Miller
Email: millerttg@charter.net
Phone: 7044892130
Date:  7/13/10

Comments: Larry Sadler, if and when you see this get in touch with me. I have been sending you e-mails and getting no response. We need to talk.

Name:  SGT Richard "Rick" Rumbaugh
Email: w5pie@swbell.net
Phone: 915-821-9168
Date:  12JUL10

Comments: I was a member of HHB 1/17th FA from 1973-1977, Fort Sill, OK. Redeye gunner assigned to the HHB Redeye section.
Would like to hear from battery and section members that I knew during that time.

Name:  Thomas C. (Tom) Williams
Email: tomw9300@yahoo.com
Phone: 6784852300
Date:  July 9, 2010

Comments: 2nd/17th, LZ Schueller, April 1969-May 1970, Fire Direction Center

Name:  Rich Siebe
Email: r47s89sp@aol.com
Phone: 9164861890
Date:  7-1-2010

Comments: 
I'm off to work my Annual 3 days of work setting up Fireworks Shows for the Folsom, CA Rodeo. I hope everyone has a safe 4th of July Weekend. See you in Pigeon Forge in October.

Name:  Gregory L. Madden
Email: mminilops@hotmail.com
Phone: 618-708-2416
Date:  6-26-2010

Comments: My dad served with B btry, 2nd Bn, 17th Artillery, from June 68 until his death in June 69.  Would like to hear any stories or see any pictures if available, if someone could help.  I served in Air Force for 23 years and am retired vet.  Thank you for serving and your help.

Name:  Josh Willis
Email: gradjw04@yahoo.com
Phone: 925-363-5042
Date:  June 18, 2010

Comments:  I am just kind of taking a shot in the dark. I am looking on this site to see if anyone could give me some info. I am also looking to see if anyone here remembers my father. My father served in Vietnam from May of 1968 through July of 1969. His name ws Michael Willis. When he arrived in Vietnam his unit was HQ,2/17th Artillery. In October he was in B Battery, 2nd Battalion, 17th Artillery. If anyone could give me information on where they were located, that would be great. If anyone knew my dad, even better. I am not doing research to write a book or anything, I just want to learn more about my dad since I never got to ask him anything.

Name:  (Harold) Dale Nute
Email: dnute@pc.fsu.edu
Phone: 850-770-2204
Date:  17 June 2010

Comments: Left Ft Sill for C Battery 3rd, 39th as gun platoon commander in Schwabach Sep 63-Jan 64.  It was deactivated and about 1/4 of the unit was combined with equal parts of a deactivated Corporal battalion, new recruits from Sill, and the 3/17 which moved to Merrell Barracks, Nuremberg.  The old 3/17 became B battery, and the rest scattered throughout with 3/39 mostly in C battery. Became S2/special weapons officer for the battalion my last year there before rotating to the States & civilian life June 65.  Was not recalled to active duty so missed the action in Nam.  Very impressed and appreciative of the stories in the guestbook.

Name:  Paul Vernon Shepherd
Email: shepherd727@gmail.com
Phone: 4123350053
Date:  May 12, 2010

Comments:  To all my Brothers, Hello,  Update as of now I have only 80 Days and 45 minutes left in the military, I have been a TWO DIGIT MIDGET, for just over 19 Days, That is not the real reason I am writing, though I wanted to share something with you that one of my best friends Doug Runice Shared with me, and some others, It is a TRIBUTE to ONE of OUR OWN,  David E. "Georgia-Boy" Bryant SGT B-2/17th FA/5th-Gun-Sect/& 1970-FO  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkOJvDv8NbA  I would hope that the Web-Master can link this to Dave's space on the Memorial PAGE, I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING You in Tennessee

Shep

Name:  Terry L. "Doc"  Earnst
Email: terry.earnst@yahoo.com
Phone: 812-881-8488
Date:  May 2nd, 2010

Comments: Hello Everyone, I served as the field medic (Doc)with A battery, 2nd Bat., 17th Arty. from Nov. 1967 to Dec., 1968 leaving my crew at LZ Action.  I stayed with Sgt Evans who owned Billy G Action (the goat) and Spec. Gary L. Chaffin.  I have been looking for Gary chaffin for several years and would appreciate any leads.  Hope to see you at the 2010 reunion in Tennessee.

Name:  Bob La Raia
Email: rlaraia@comcast.net
Phone: 7134679868
Date:  2 May 2010

Comments: Just got back from a visit to Germany and saw Merrill Barracks in Nurnberg (SS Kaserne) where I was stationed with the 3/17 Arty in 1968-69.  It's now used as the headquarters of a German Federal Agency in that handles immigration and refugee matters.

Name:  SFC James F. Widener USA Retired
Email: flywide@comcast.net
Phone: 802-876-7101
Date:  04/06/2010

Comments: I remember SGT Chevalier (Mess SGT) sent ice cream to C-Btry when they were in battle at Ia Drang. I was assigned to A-Btry but I was sent in with my gun to replace one of C- Btry guns that had a tube melt. Would like to hear from SGT Chevalier. We were station at Ft Wainwright, AK together.

Name:  James Woolnough
Email: combatptsd1967@aol.com
Phone: 732-534-0787
Date:  4-3-2010

Comments: If you remember my husband James Woolnough, please feel free to contact him. Thank you for your service and sacrifices, thank you for surviving, and welcome home!

Thank you Soldier
                                                  
Have you stopped to thank a veteran today?
For the price of freedom they had to pay?
Did you gaze into those distant eyes?
Did you see the ghosts he can't deny?
Did you think a soldier's heart was made of steel?
Because he was trained to kill, he couldn't feel?
Did you see the guilt written on his face,
For the loss of life he can't replace?
Did you know he mourns the lives he couldn't save,
And walks with comrades in their grave?
Did you remember the boy with innocence lost?
Do you really know war's ultimate cost?
Have you felt the blast of artillery fire?
Do you have the courage it would require?
Have you stood in trenches consumed with fear?
Felt the enemies breath so very near?
Have you walked with God on a battleground?
Seen your brothers dead or dying all around?
Have you stopped to thank a vet today,
Or did you just turn and walk away?
From the pain he'll carry for the rest of his life,
Did you consider his family, his children, his wife?
That watch him suffer in silence each and every day,
As he's haunted by memories that don't go away?
Did you care that the soldier is still pulling guard?
That his heart, mind, and soul will forever be scarred?
Do you know how he suffers from ptsd?
Or that our precious freedom is never free?
Do you care that he still hears the blood curdling screams?
Or that he returns to the war each night in his dreams?
Have you felt the sorrow of a combat vet?
Or would you rather just forget?
That war has pierced his hardened heart,
And torn this soldier all apart?
Would you rather our heroes just fade away?
Or will you stop to thank a vet today?

By Chris Woolnough  

Name:  Henry Darby
Email: Henry_darby@yahoo.com
Phone: 843-697-7715
Date:  3/30/10

Comments: I am recording local history of Vietnam Veterans in a suburb in North Charleston, SC. Of the 40 guys who served, one was a member of Field Wireman 36K20. His name is Benjamin Grant. He served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969. If anyone knows him, please contact me. It may do him well to see a former fellow-soldier...

Name:  shane irvin
Email: shane.irvin@gmail.com
Phone: 740-739-8161
Date:  3/30/2010

Comments: i am currently deployed with B Btry 3-17 fa. i have been with them since they stood up in 2007. looking forward to becoming a member.

OEF 09-10 Spin Boldack, Afghanistan FOB Blackhawk!!!

Name:  Bill Adkins
Email: badkins@cox.net
Phone: 316-807-7407
Date:  3/26/2010

Comments: I served with Charlie Battery based out of Sonjuri, Korea in 1986 - 87.  Served on the 198s at 4 Pappa 3 firebase.  To all my brothers in arms have a wonderful day.

Name:  RICHARD MARTINEZ
Email: CHICO.RICHARD52@YAHOO.COM
Phone: 210-289-9376
Date:  3/24/10

Comments: Looking for old friends from Merrill barracks in Nuremburg Germany . I was with A battery 3rd 17FA. In 1971 to 1973. I was called Chico always getting in trouble. Really had a good time. I hated Graf. Bit time

Name:  Jim Fausone
Email: jim@legalhelpforveterans.com
Phone: 800-693-4800
Date:  3.23.10

Comments: Paul Shepherd pointed me to this site. We are a law firm that helps Vets with appeals of disability claims to the Board or the Court of Veterans Claims. If we can help visit us at www.legalhelpforveterans.com.  Thank you for your service.  Paul you were right. Great site. Jim

Name:  Jack Buckler
Email: jackbuckler@aol.com
Phone: 814-723-0560
Date:  March 22, 2010

Comments: I served in Fire Direction Control (mos - 13E20) with C Battery 2/17 FA in Bam Me Thout starting late April 1970 to Nov. 1970. Then got transferred to B Battery at Dalat from late Nov. thru May 1971. Was in country just 2 weeks when we air lifted to a forward former Vietnamese fire base. Don't even remember if it had a name but I remember there was not much head room in the hooch. We were taking incoming mortar fire before we even had the guns set up. This is my first effort to make contact with former bunker mates. It's been a long time! Anyone else from that unit with the flower tattoo? I would like to hear from any of you.

Jack
Warren, PA

Name:  Paul V Shepherd Sr
Email: shepherd727@gmail.com
Phone: 4123350053
Date:  03 19 2010

Comments:  SHORT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HOW long has it been SINCE YOU HEARD THAT! Well, I am again SHORT 134 Days 5 HOURS 50 SECONDS but Who is Counting! It has been a long time coming, but I am ready,  Over the past Month I have had the pleasure to speak with some of my Partners in crime, from the depths of PAST, Klingman, Gun 1 Stanford Gun 6 & Airmobile Team, Alberico Wrenches Maintenance, and have heard through the GRAPE VINE, that others are ALIVE and at least Breathing I.e. George Winton, CPT B Cmdr and Doug Runice Gun 5, As we spoke the names of many more, touched our lips, Weaver, Knowles, Keister, Butch, Harlin, Smith, DOC , Stokes, Friel, Luke, Fetsick, Reeves, Rodgers, Cottrall, Tatter, West, Pereze, Schultz, Taylor, Tucker, Brown, and the many, FNGs ! that I and you might have been afraid to get to know, after we lost those who we were close to I.e. Madden Francis B Newark NJ SGT HHB-Survey KIA 06-15-69 1300 1K east of Schueller "He and I came over from the 84th 155mm FA at Tuy-Hoa" He and three others died,  by the survey point.  

Then there was David (Georgia Boy) Bryant Gun 4 & Gun 5 Schueller, I always knew that Dave ws destined to go the limit, and I did not find out for 30 years, that the "limit was to be his Life". Yes there were others, Cpt Colgan, The guys killed with Madden, and those I did not know, It is in their Memories, that I have instilled to my charges over these many military years, especially since 9-11, Learn, DO, Protect, Leave No Man/Woman behind on the field, Do your best, Lead by EXAMPLE, HONOR THOSE HERO'S on The Walls! as they paid the price in making "YOU" the Best You Can Be! Even as we grow older we still have a mission in life, Where are our Brothers and for the younger troops, Sisters IN Arms,  We all must look after each other just as we did in COMBAT, Many of those we have served with might be or are "hurting", Physically, or Emotionally, PTSD...Agent ORANGE, Gulf War Syndrome are not JUST IN OUR HEADS !  

They linger in our bodies, Arthritis, Prostate Issues, Cancer, Tinnitus, Heart Disease, Stomach Problems, Sleeping Disorders, are coming back to HAUNT us as we get older, Anyone who has dealt with the VA-Administration, knows that, THE VETERANS ADMINISTRATION does NOT Care about helping, it only cares about, HINDERING Veterans in dealing with Entitlements, Individual Veterans fighting the system, are David trying to SLAY the DRAGON from a 1 Gun Hip Shoot,  Remember what we did to chuck when we MASSED OR FIRES,  WE WERE INVINCIBLE! Our Motto has always been "IN TIME OF PEACE PREPARE FOR WAR" We just never realized that the WAR would be with "THE VETERANS ADMINISTRATION". 

I AM ASKING......EVERY MEMBER OF THE 17TH, PLEASE PLACE YOUR ACCOUNTS OF YOUR TOUR IN WRITING FOR HISTORY, THAT MIGHT HELP A BROTHER/SISTER RECEIVE THE BENEFITS THAT THEY DESERVE, IN THE FUTURE!

And I ask the Board of Directors to take this up as a perpetual archive project, Sanctioned and Approved by the board, and that we have our Membership Rosters Recorded, and Certified through the Regimental Command & Jag Offices at Fort Sill , I believe this can be worked out!

REMEMBER What Makes Soldiers We have a contract, with each-other and the people of the United States There is no clause that states, that this contract is Null & Void due to hostile fire, Yet it Does State, I will Defend, and Protect from all enemies foreign & domestic, We and They have given this Country a BLANK CHECK, That was Payable by Death.

That in fact, was payable, ON DEMAND! As Memorial Day comes near, Please Remember those Brave Souls that we hold in Esteem!   THANK YOU GOD BLESS YOU and THEM ALL !

SHEP69  Life Member 109

Name:  Harry Nelson
Email: nelsonh2@yahoo.com
Phone: 731-439-6058
Date:  March 17, 2010

Comments: I was in A Battery in Nurenburg from 1970-1971.  I have a lot of photos.

Name:  Dick Stanton ( Stan)
Email: neatstuff1@aol.com
Phone: 616-538-5807
Date:  16 march 2010

Comments: Hi, I am Dick Stanton (Stan) I served in Battery 2/17 & A rear guns also. I am so happy to be part of this great group, Recently I talked To Captain Winton, Paul Shepherd, Doug Runice & also Norm Jones, what a pleasure to talk to these men after 40 years. It is amazing the bond we still have after so many years. I hope to hear from other fellow servicemen in B Battery 1969-1970. Has anyone heard from Sergeant Knoles, Dwayne Freel, Rogers , Spade. Have a great Day.

Name:  Richard "Rick" Hambley
Email: Rnrham2@aol.com
Phone: 305-794-6429
Date:  3/15/2010

Comments: Greetings to All, Served with B Battery 2nd and 17th at LZ Schueller May 68 to May 69 as an FO. Wanted to thank everyone involved with this web site for doing such a wonderful job. Have been able to re-connect with some old Vietnam buddies as a result. Will be sending in my dues this week. God Bless Our Troops.

Name:  Raymond Runice
Email: dougrun68@yahoo.com
Phone: 123-123-1234
Date:  3/12/10

Comments: Trying to help a fellow Vet with a hearing loss claim.  He was an Air Traffic Controller for the Army at the Dalat military airport.  His unit, guys from the ammo dump, and the fuel point all were billeted in the hotel downtown above a theatre that was blown up by the VC in March of 70.  A kids show was playing and many women and children were killed.  He was in his quarters when the blast occurred and was thrown across the room with an awful ringing in his ears.  He now needs to use a hearing aid and the VA says they have no record of the incident.  If anyone from FB Colgan remembers the theater blast and would be willing to write a letter for him stating that it did happen, I'm sure he would be very grateful.  I remember it and have written a letter for him myself.  If you can help him, his email is JKHutchy@verizon.net.   His name is Jeff Hutchinson.

Name:  Holice Barton
Email: holicebarton@yahoo.com
Phone: 229-423-5885
Date:  3/10/10

Name:  Marke Moore
Email: rugerman97@yahoo.com
Phone: 3302627049
Date:  3 1 2010

Comments: Served in charlie Battery during Desert Shield Storm with 5th section glad to see a page for us REDLEGS anyone from charlie give me a holler.

Name:  Stephen Moorman
Email: vietsem@aol.com
Phone: 7068240079
Date:  02/23/2010

Comments: Served Dec 65 thru Dec66. Once was enough.

Name:  Thomas Kurtz
Email: Kurtz_T@msn.com
Phone: 217-732-4357
Date:  Feb 22, 2010

Comments: The hotel address on the 2010 reunion announcement that was mailed out with the January Newsletter is incorrect. The correct street address for the Country Cascades is, 204 Sharon Drive, Pigeon Forge, TN.

Name:  Roderrique Ramos-Curray
Email: shshellshock@yahoo.com
Phone: 2292699174
Date:  feb 16 2010

Comments: greeting fellow canoneers i was in a btry 3rd bn 17th fa wishing all a bless year from 1990 t0 1994 ansbach Germany to ft sill ok

Name:  Tom Kurtz
Email: Kurtz_T@msn.com
Phone: 217-732-4357
Date:  12 Feb 2010

Comments: Tony Lopez contacted the association chaplain and requested any pictures or information about his father Antonio Lopez who served with Battery C, 2d Battalion, 17th Artillery in South Vietnam, 1969 1970. Antonio was a SFC during the time he was with Battery C. Tony can be contacted at 11543 Jonathan Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225. Antonio Lopez passed away in June 2008 and is buried at Fort Sill Post Cemetery.

Name:  Richard Moore
Email: cfg84t@live.com
Phone: 4089853975
Date:  1-22-10

Comments: I served with C-2-17 from 1-70 to 4-71

Name: Charles Edward Morrison
Email: cdsmcem@bellsouth.net
Date:  Jan 04, 2010

Comments: I would like to hear from anyone in or associated with WWII Battery "F" 17th Field Artillery.

Name:  Larry Miller
Email: millerttg@charter.net
Phone: 704-489-2130
Date:  12-24-09

Comments: Wishing a very MERRY CHRISTMAS to everyone who are now serving, and to all the men and women who have in the past.

Name: Richard Smith - chaplain 17th Artillery Reg. Association, A Btry 4/17th 1974-1978
Email:
Phone: 
Date:  12-23-09

Comments: I'd like to take a moment and wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas.  No matter how large or how small your Christmas is just remember what is "The Reason for the Season." 
God Bless. 

Name:  Thomas Kurtz
Email:
Phone: 217-732-4357
Date:  Dec 18, 2009

Comments:  I want to wish all members, veterans and their families of the 17th Artillery Regiment Association a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. The 2010 annual reunion will be held in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee from 27-29 October with the annual membership meeting and banquet on October 30. The 2010 reunion announcements will be mailed out next month.

Name:  CHARLES  E  KEMPEL
Email: kemp.1965@dishmail.net
Phone: 918-542-4634
Date:  12/15/09

Comments: NOTE THE E-MAIL ADDRESS CHANGE,  B BTY 2ND HOW BN 17TH ARTY

Name:  Tom Spahr
Email: spahrjab@comcast.net
Phone: 360-748-0775
Date:  November 23, 2009

Comments: I do not see many 3rd 17th Vets here so I will put my 2 cents in. I was stationed at Merrill Barracks in Nurnberg June 71 through November 72. I was in HHB and evetually became the driver for BC LTC O'Meara. CSM Posey is another I served under. Great guy. Many fond memories of my time served. Like to get reacquainted with those I served with.

Name:  Rich Siebe
Email: r47s89sp@aol.com
Phone: 9164861890
Date:  11/18/09

Comments:  I want to thank all of you that made this years 10th Annual Reunion one of the best ever. I also want to thank all those that participated in both Auctions and those that donated to the Scholarship and General Fund. See you next year in Tennessee.

Name:  Chris Terwilligar
Email: christopher.a.terwilligar@us.army.mil
Phone: 5804831869
Date:  13 Nov 2009

Comments: Served with Bravo and HHS 5-17 FA at Fort Sill from Oct 1993 till the reflag to 1-14 FA in 1996

Name:  Rhonda (McCowan) Grimmer
Email: rhonda36@hotmail.com
Phone: 701-770-5926
Date:  11/05/09

Comments: Just wanted to let you know that we made the contacts to have the national archives changed for my brother RALPH C. MCCOWAN, to reflect his purple heart award.  In doing so they have reissued his medals and within the next few weeks the local veterans group plans a public presentation.

Name:  eliasar jurado
Email: eliscoming@comcast.net
Phone: 1-707-718-2005
Date:  10-27-09

Comments: I am looking for victor Ramirez and ray Moreno we in An-Khe in 68-69 with the 2nd 17th arty commo section Fred and I are hoping to hear from them someday soon.

Name:  dennis l hammer
Email: dennishmm@aol.com
Phone: 7636397511
Date:  10/27/09

Comments: i served with 1st17th.in r.o.k.1965,66 m.s.a.as sentry dog handler. and served with 2nd17th.in Vietnam 1967,68,69.svc.battery plt.sgt.ammo plt. I just learned you guys were out there. sfc Jones found me, never could hide from him. you will be hearing more from me.

Name:  Eliasar Jurado
Email: Eliscoming@comcast.net
Phone: 1-707-718-2005
Date:  09-25-09

Comments:  I want thank Norman Jones for helping me find my buddy Fred A. Wilson and my section sergeant Bobby Lowery we served together in An-Khe Vietnam commo.section 36k20 fieldwire men 68-69.God Bless. Eliasar Jurado.

Name:  John deTreville
Email: jdetreville@yahoo.com
Phone: 919-847-0900
Date:  Sept 24, 2009

Comments: Yahoo Geocities will shut down on 26 Oct 2009 so if you have any favorite Vietnam war history or unit sites on geocities you may want to download or print copies of them before that date in case they are not moved to a new URL

Name:  Norman R. Jones
Email: AnKhe2nd17FA68@aol.com
Phone: 512-705-8891
Date:  09-16-2009

Comments:  We now have less than 2 months until our reunion. Those of you that are planning to attend, please get your registration sent in and make your hotel arrangements. This reunion promises to be the best one yet.

Name:  Doug Runice
Email: dougrun68@yahoo.com
Phone: 715-264-5602
Date:  9/8/09

Comments:  Doug Runice and Steve Gerhardt of B Battery 69-70 have finalized our plans to be at the reunion for the first time barring unforeseen circumstances.  Hope to see other Bravo guys there and looking forward to meeting all the others.

Name:  Francisco A Bonilla
Email: bonillaf52@yahoo.com
Phone: 4795300572
Date:  Sept 5, 2009

Comments: Glad to find former members of the 17th. There seems to be no one from the 5th, which was reactivated in 1987 or 88 from the 3rd, 37th FA BN, in Herzo Base Germany. I was Bn S-2 and SWO, Btry Cdr, Asst S3 in Herzo Base from Dec 85 to Dec 88 in both. Very rare Command duty where I went from one regiment to another.

Thanks, keep up the good work.
Francisco A. Bonilla

Name:  George Fravel
Email: gfravel@verizon.net
Phone: 6105181518
Date:  8/31/09

Comments: I looking for members of HHB 2.17 in Vietnam during the period 11.70 to 5.71 or thereabouts.  In particular, I am looking for my two chopper pilots and gunners during the above period.  I am ex Captain George Fravel, Commander of HHB during this period.  To all who read this, God bless and may we find a way to end all war. George

Name:  Craig D. Barker
Email: craigdbarker@sbcglobal.net
Phone: 6195753660
Date:  30 AUG 09

Comments: I was in Bravo Btry 217 FA Apr 77  Apr 78 Cp Pelham

Name:  Roger Wolfin
Email: niflow@yahoo.com
Phone: 810-624-4419
Date:  Aug 29,2009

Comments: I served in Viet Nam from Jan 1969 thru Jan 1970 in C Battery. I was on a 155 for the first few months then went to FDC.  I was on firebase Annie, if I remember correctly, and Bu Prang.

Name:  george schaefer
Email: clumsums@windstream.net
Phone: 2056297850
Date:  aug 29

Comments: Richard Dick alexson passed July 25. Esophgeal Cancer  17th Arty 62-63 Korea.

Name: Richard Smith
email: rsmith3024@nc.rr.com
Phone: 
Date:  08-18-09

Comments: In reference to the two former 17th members, Richard C. Alexson  Korea 1962 cancer and Don Ballard  Korea even though they don't belong to the association I'd still like to drop them a card due to their health reasons.  We might not belong to a dues paying organization but one thing no one can ever take away from you is the service that you gave to the 17th or any other group by having been a member. Any info or address on the these two men would be appreciated.

Thanks and God Bless, Richard Smith   Chaplain 17th Reg. Assoc.4 /17 1974-1978

Name: Doug Runice
email: dougrun@ceas.coop
Phone: 
Date:  08-14-09

Comments: Hi everyone,  Steve Gerhardt and I had a mini-reunion in Indiana last week.  We served in B Batttery together in 69-70.  It was great to see him after 39 years and we had a good time sharing pics and talking about the "old days".  We are now talking about planning to make the reunion for the first time this year to maybe renew some old acquaintances and make new ones as well.  Hope to see you all there!  

Name: Norman R. Jones
email: Ankhe2nd17fa68@aol.com
Phone: 512-705-8891
Date:  08-13-09

Comments: I'm searching for a Larry Gonzales of California. He served in  "C" Battery 3rd Bn 17th FA in Germany 1976 thru 78 and was a SP 4. Anyone knowing how to get in touch with him or who has access to do a Social Security check please contact me at the above phone number or email address.

Name:  SHAWN K. FINLEY
Email: skfinley1963@yahoo.com
Phone: 315-535-4322
Date:  20090905

Comments: A 2 17 F A 1985 86 CAMP PELHAM KOREA MUNSANI ANYONE ELSE SERVE DURING THAT TIME CALL OR EMAIL ME OK THANKS JUST WANNA CATCH UP ON OLD TIMES

Name:  Larry Miller
Email: millerttg@charter.net
Phone: 7044892130
Date:  July 20 2009

Comments:  WHAT ARE THE DATES FOR THE 2009 REUNION IN FORT SILL.

Name:  Raymond Heuring
Email: padrerayh@aol.com
Phone: 419-697-1235
Date:  July 19, 2009

Comments: I was recently contacted by a lady looking for someone who might have served with her father Paul Fye Jr whom she she indicated served with the 17th FA in Korea in 1953-1954. She said that he worked on airplanes. If you can help this woman please let me know and I will furnish her email address.

Name:  PFC David E Sines
Email: davy1954@yahoo.com
Phone: 3047895959
Date:  07 15 2009

Comments:

Name:  George Schaefer
Email: clumsums@windstream.net
Phone: 2056297650
Date:  7/14/09

Comments: Fellow buddies.  Although the next two PPL are not members of the Assoc., they are former comrades in the 17th.  You can check their guest book entries.

Richard C Alexson Korea 62  Terminal throat cancer now.
Don Ballard Korea  Tuscalosa AL Hosp now

Name:  Leighton Bowen
Email: lttd_00@yahoo.com
Phone: 7188075420
Date:  07/14/09

Comments:  My name is Leighton Bowen. I served with the 3 17th FA in Ansbach, Germany until they moved to Ft. Sill, Ok in 1992. If you need to reach me I can be reached at 7188075420.

Name:  Max Torrence
Email: superhook@bellsouth.net
Phone: 404-735-3946
Date:  07/12/09

Comments:  I served with the 1-17th 1976 to 1977 and deployed to Augsberg, FGR under the command of LTC Dick Beltson.  Also served as Commander of Bravo Battery, the Best Battery by Test at Graf while in Germany.  A GREAT unit with wonderful, professional soldiers.

Name:  Rich Siebe
Email: r47s89sp@aol.com
Phone: 9164861890
Date:  6/23/09

Comments: Jack Stroud passed the following info while he was out here on the Left Coast visiting. Can anyone Help Vicki. Msg follows...From, Vicki James...E mail, vj1permail at aol.com   Subject, Looking for those that served with my Father...Dear Sir- My father, Paul Fye, served in the 17th Field Artillery Battalion in Korea in 1953 to 1954. We are trying to find others who served with him, Can you help. Thanks.

Name:  TIM MITCHELL
Email: dad3papaw2@yahoo.com
Phone: 828-238-3629
Date:  June 2009

Comments: SGT. MITCHELL, LOOKING FOR ANY OF MY FRIENDS. JUST WANTING TO RECONNECT. I WAS IN DESERT STORM 1990-1991. LOOKING FOR GEORGE FRENCH, POPS FRANKLIN AND THE REST OF MY GUYS.

Name:  Charles e Kempel
Email: kemp1965@sbcglobal.net
Phone: 918-542-4634
Date:  6/15/09

Comments: I WAS in 2ND HOWS BN 17TH ARTILLERY B BTRY, BASE PIECE UNDER SGT DUKES

Name:  Eliasar Jurado (Jory)
Email: Eliscoming@comcast.net
Phone: 1-707-718-2005
Date:  06-14-09

Comments: I hope you remember me Victor Ramirez and Ray Moreno we serve together in Vietnam as field wire men but, I was sent to the field to a fire base.

Name:  Fred Coppin
Email: station18@juno.com
Phone: 714-456-1468
Date:  June 5, 2009

Comments: Former Spec5 with survey platoon, HHB 2 17 FA, Ban Me Thout East 1970. 

The price freedom By Joseph L. Galloway, McClatchy Newspapers

Memorial Day is upon us, and for most Americans that means the first holiday weekend of a new summer. For most, it's time to dust off the barbecue pit or head to the nearest beach or hit the mall for the big sales. For those who wear, or have worn, the uniform and those who love them, however, it means something different. It's a time to remember those who've fallen in defense of our country in the 234 years since the first American soldier died in a rebellion against a king. During this time, some 43 million Americans have served under arms in our wars, 655,000 have died in battle and more than 1.4 million have been wounded in combat. Our two ongoing wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have claimed the lives of 4,963 American troops, and 34,000 others have been wounded in combat. Those are just the numbers, the statistics. Every one of those numbers has a face and a name. Every one leaves behind someone, often many someone, whose hearts are forever broken and whose lives are forever changed. For those who've served and are of a certain age, Memorial Day is also a time to think of comrades and brothers in arms who answered their last roll call during the past year. For our remaining World War II veterans, the days dwindle down to a precious few. Some of their veterans associations held their last reunion this past year; too few are left to gather again. Fewer than 5 million are left of the 15 million who wore the uniform between 1941 and 1945, and they're disappearing from among us at the rate of 30,000 each day. The passing years also take their toll among veterans of the Korean War, the forgotten war, and they've begun to thin the ranks of those who served and sacrificed in Vietnam . Two who died this past year left holes in the ranks of my own small brotherhood, the veterans of the battles of the Ia Drang Valley, fought in Vietnam at the dawn of our war there in November 1965.

Maj. Ed Too Tall to Fly, Freeman died last August in his hometown of Boise , Idaho . He belatedly earned a Medal of Honor in 2001 for flying his Huey helicopter through a storm of enemy fire 14 times in one hot afternoon, bringing in ammunition and taking out wounded Americans. His wing man and boss, Lt. Col. Bruce, Old Snake Crandall, who received the Medal of Honor in 2005, was beside Ed's hospital bed that last week saying his goodbyes and continuing their half century argument over which of them was the "second best pilot in the world.” Early this year, Medic Randy Doc Lose, one of the survivors of the "lost" platoon of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion 7th U.S. Cavalry in the Ia Drang, was buried in the National Cemetery in Biloxi, Mississippi. Doc Lose earned a Distinguished Service Cross for his actions in saving the lives of a dozen wounded men who were trapped behind enemy lines for over 24 hours. He was wounded four times as he crawled from man to man, plugging their wounds with C Ration toilet paper after he ran out of bandages.

Doc never got over the experience. The Vietnam War killed him just as certainly as it did the 79 other men of his battalion who died during those three days in the valley of death. May God rest his soul and grant him peace. Yes, for the 20 million living veterans of America 's wars, old and new, and for the families and friends of the fallen, Memorial Day has a very special meaning, and it is a time for reflection and silent tears. This Memorial Day, 2009, America is mired in two wars. The one in Iraq is supposed to begin winding down this summer, even as the other, in Afghanistan , is building toward a new crescendo. We have a new President, Barack Obama, who was elected on a promise of change. For those few who wear the uniform of our country, however, nothing has changed. They continue to serve and sacrifice in wars in distant lands whose purpose and goals and eventual end are as fuzzy now as they were when they began in the dawn of this new century. However you celebrate Memorial Day this year however happy or solemn the occasion spare a thought and a moment of silence in memory of all those who purchased your freedom with their lives, and of all those who defend it still. If you are given to prayer, pray that one day our soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines will know true peace somewhere short of the grave.

Name:  Thomas C. Bixby
Email: thomas.bixby@us.army.mil
Phone: 703-606-2732
Date:  19 May 2009

Name:  CHARLES  KEMPEL
Email: kemp1965@sbcglobal.net
Phone: 918-542-4634
Date:  5/18/09

Comments: 2nd hows bn 17th arty, Btry gun 4

Name:  Richard Wynn
Email: wynntroupe@hotmail.com
Phone: 214-758-0772
Date:  May 1, 2009

Comments:  Hoping to hear from fellow veterans who served in A Btry 17th FA Bn during Jul 52 to Jul 53 at Magori, Kumwha, Chorwon. Especially, those that made the trip from Magori to Kumwha on Nov 2,1952 when there were two split-tailed howitzers, Sec2 and Sec4, turned over in the ditch trying to make it down a steep, slippery, frozen road. Or the brave souls in the self-propelled howitzer crew that I carried hot chow to in their forward position.

Name:  Charley Hardbarger
Email: mountainsooner@lrec.org
Phone: 918-696-3910
Date:  April 29, 2009

Comments: I need some help if anyone can remember anything.  I was blown out of a foxhole in Korea on December 19 1950.  I was taken to the Swiss Hospital in Tokyo.  One man at the hospital there told me that when they found me I had blood coming from my eyes ears nose.  I had a shrapnel wound to my right leg and landed on my right shoulder.  I now have a lot of trouble getting around but manage to still work for Tyson to go after parts for their truck shop.  I am trying again for the 4th time to get my VA assistance but my records were burnt in the fire in St Louis.  I have been told that although the national archives site shows my severe injury by missile among the Korean War Casualties the record does not describe my injury.  They have sent me for a physical recently but have told me that I need to try to contact anyone that could recall anything and get a letter from them to help describe and document my injury.  Don't know how much longer I can work hope someone can remember.

Name:  David w. Stoddard
Email: DKSTODD24@MSN.COM
Phone: 6617280363
Date:  4-9-09

Comments: I AM LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON 17TH FIELD ARTILLERY DURING WWII. WHEN DID THEY SHIP TO ENGLAND AND LAND IN ORAN NORTH AFRICA, WERE THEY REORGANIZED IN SICILY OR ITALY. MY BROTHER CHARLES L. STODDARD WAS WITH BATTERY B AS A MOTOR SERGEANT FROM THE STATES TILL SICILY.

Name:  Richard Uhing
Email: richarduhing@huntel.net
Phone: 402-374-1391
Date:  04/07/2009

Comments: I served in 7 17arty pomkoji camp sabre 11 67 to 12 68 in c btry.

Name:  Phillip W. Hruska
Email: hruskapa@comcast.net
Phone: 734-981-1885
Date:  March 23, 2009

Comments: Served in Korea 7th Bn 17th Artillery from Oct 1966 til Nov 1967 at Camp Sabre Near the Village of Pomkoji.

Name:  Paul Fusco
Email: pfvet@optonline.net
Phone: 7328866344
Date:  3/11/09

Comments: Looking for water truck driver who helped Thomas Santos on 3 April 1968.He is looking to get in touch with him.. Send me an e-mail Please.

Name:  Rick Simpkins [ SIMON ]
Email: scootertrash49@yahoo.com
Phone: 618-263-7018
Date:  02/16/09

Comments:  Just a few words to let everyone that helped me back in Jan. know that I contacted Gary Gibbs and had a good conversation with him. All is well on the home front. THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HELP GUYS. I have sent in my life membership dues. and I'm looking forward to visiting this site often in the future. I'm still looking for info on these men I was with at Ban Me Thout in 69.70. Joe Sewell. Bill Spears, Bob Norris,  Lynn MacCormik. all on gun 3 and Dan Montoya from gun 6. Looking for email adds. phone nums. anything I can get. I would like to reconnect with one or all. Thanks to Mike Burke and Don Arceneaux for all your help. I am going to try to make it to the next reunion. Thanks again  RICK SIMPKINS

Name:  Thomas P Ross
Email: montanagrizzfan@msn.com
Phone: 406-251-2816
Date:  January 25, 2009

Comments: I joined the 2nd Battalion, 17th FA at Fort Sill, OK as a young 2LT fresh out of Officer Basic Course in January 1963, assigned to C Battery commanded by CPT Burge.  The Bn Cdr was LTC David E. Foster, soon replaced by William F Skidmore and later still by Harry O. Amos.  I remember Skidmore and Amos with great fondness.  I commanded Service Battery for several months and later become the Battalion Adjutant.  LTC Amos was very anxious that I not leave the Army in 1965 but I had landed a great job with General Electric Company and wanted to taste the outside.  He later wrote me telling me the battalion was on the way to Viet Nam.  I felt like a traitor.  My battalion was off to war without me.  So I plugged away in civilian life for another two years.  Amos wrote me from Viet Nam.  I volunteered to return to active duty in 1967, commanded again at Fort Sill and off to Viet Nam for another battery command.  I retired in September 1993 in the Rank of Colonel, completing nearly 31 years of service.  Good luck with your association.

Tom Ross

Name:  Jack Picciolo  Secretary
Email: purrsfive@comcast.net
Phone: 8159197507
Date:  1/22/09

Comments:  The Jan. 09 Newsletter is complete.  Please email me if you wish to receive the newsletter by email or still by regular mail.  The newsletter is a Microsoft Word document.

Jack

Name:  Rick Simpkins [ SIMON ]
Email: scootertrash49@yahoo.com
Phone: 618-263-7018
Date:  01/21/09

Comments: I was with Charley Battery at Bam Me Thout in summer of sixty nine seventy. Like to here from anyone there at that time.

Name:  Paul Shepherd Sr
Email: paul.vernon.shepherd@us.army.mil
Phone: 4123350053
Date:  01-12-2009

Comments: Sorry I have been away so long. It has been a bad two years since the death of my Son. I am working now to Screw it BACK ON, and push forward. I look forward to hearing from many of my friends - Doug Mike. Hope to hear from George Winton John Bradley Rod Taylor Stan. Danny Freil and any one else I can get in touch with; Harry Fetsick Danny Reeves and maybe Luke please pass my E-Mail on to all. and Yes I have managed to stay Army Guard 25 Years and now. I am Short 16 months and a wake up, and they give me my CHECK.
Best to ALL
SHEP 69

Name:  Larry Miller
Email: millerttg@bellsouth.net
Phone: 7044892130
Date:  12/24/08

Comments: Wishing everyone in the 17th a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Name:  Norman R. Jones
Email: Ankhe2nd17fa68@aol.com
Phone: 0000000000
Date:  21 December 2008

Comments: David H. Rowley, I have found your section Chief from 17FA in Germany
SSG Jesse Howze. Contact me via email.

Norman R. Jones, TOP

Name:  Wayne McIlwain (Mack)
Email: mc43513@netzero.com
Phone: 607-732-6363
Date:  December 10th, 2008

Comments: Looking for anyone in my unit 17th 2nd HQ 1962 to 1964

Name:  Wayne McIlwain
Email: mc43513@netzero.com
Phone: 607-732-6363
Date:  December 10th, 2008

Comments: Looking for Willie Lofton. He started his service with the 17th in 1961. I served in the 17th 1st bat HQ from 1961 to 1963 at Fort Benning.

Name:  William L. Conlon Chaplain (Captain)
Email: bc@minister.com
Phone: 919-580-7292
Date:  Dec. 1, 2008

Comments: I served as the Bn Chaplain with the 1-17 FA from Sept 1987 - Dec 1989. I enjoyed my time with the soldiers and officers and their families.  I would like to hear from soldiers and officers that served during the same time.  God Bless all of you...

Name:  Philip Drago, Jr
Email: pdragojr@gt.rr.com
Phone: 409-722-5173
Date:  11/17/2008

Comments: Served in Viet Nam from May, 1970, until July 1971.  Was with the 2nd-17th FA in Nha Trang until the unit stood down in April of 1971.  Was then re-assigned to the 5th-27 FA, back to Nha Trang until I left Viet Nam in July.

P. Drago

Name:  Rich Siebe
Email: r47s89sp
Phone: 9164861890
Date:  Nov. 14, 2008

Comments: The Association Reunion in Washington DC is now over and it is now time to make plans for our 10th Anniversary Reunion in Lawton, OK. in November, 2009. I want to thank all of you that came to DC this year, in particular 1st timers, Tony Casselli, Mike Klingeman, Don Brooks, Bob Pasqill, Gene Retka, Tom Ward, and the entire McCowan clan. I enjoyed meeting you all. And Thanks to all of you that keep coming to the Reunions, you make it worth while for me to do my job as Treasurer and travel around the Country and attend these Reunions... Again Thanks to all of you that keep the Association going. Rich Siebe

Name:  Paul Fusco
Email:
Phone: 7328866344
Date:  11/14/08

Comments: Just want to say I enjoyed my short visit with everyone in DC. The two men that came with me from the Duster organization appreciated the warm welcome they were given.

Name:  Paul Fusco
Email:
Phone: 7328866344
Date:  11/08/08

Comments: Thanks to all who have served. Hope to see some of you at the wall on veterans day.

Name:  Bob Pasquill
Email: after7329@hargray.com
Phone: 8437052032
Date:  Oct 21 2008

Comments: I have made plans and reservations to attend the 2008 reunion, and in the interim would like to hear from others who were in the 17th during 55-56. Or our sister units the 75th or 96th.

Name:  Jim shernesky
Email: jlms48@hotmail.com
Phone: 315-252-6711
Date:  10-06-08

Comments: I am looking for any one that was in C Batt 2nd17th.  1968 1969,I was on gun 3,then went to FDC. They called me Capt.. zoom. thanks and peace to all

Name:  Terry Newhouse
Email: terryanewhouse@gmail.com
Phone: 9499333651
Date:  1990-1992

Comments: 1-17th, 75th FA

Name:  Walter Guchereau
Email: wguchereau@gmail.com
Phone: 0000000000
Date:  September 23, 2008

Comments: I would like to make contact with anyone who served with me at Bam Me Thout Vietnam, Fire Base Colgan, 6th Section, B Battery, 2nd 17th Field Artillery in 1970 and 1971.

Name:  john a. smith c battery 2/17 arty Vietnam 1969-1970
Email: levi927@optilink.us
Phone: 706-278-0475
Date:  9-11-2008

Comments: was on firebase Annie and was wounded 12-2-1969 on bu prang

Name:  Thomas Kurtz
Email: Kurtz_T@msn.com
Phone: 217-732-4357
Date:  7 Sep 08

Comments: Reminder to all fellow 17th Artillery veterans, the 2008 reunion is just a couple of months away, November 8-12. Now is the time to plan on attending and to make your reservations. I hope to see you there.

Name:  Victor Guardo
Email: jbvachief@brmemc.net
Phone: 8283056794
Date:  08 /10/2008

Comments:  Served with HQ Battery, 17th Field Artillery in Korea from 1957-1958 up on the DMZ. Would like to get in contact with others that served with me.

Name:  Guy J. Scavone
Email: gjscavone@hotmail.com
Phone: 248-640-2533
Date:  8/5/08

Comments: Looking for any word from old buddies.  Was at Merrell Barracks, Nurnberg, Germany from 1970 to 1972.  I was battery clerk for Battery A, 3rd Battalion, 17th Artillery.

Name:  HANK SANDERS
Email: sanders_hank@sbcglobal.net
Phone: 903-784-7569
Date:  07/13/08

Comments:   just surfing the web, came on to your page.  i was in B brty 6of14 march69dec.70. went up north to b 6of32 jj carreal tell nov.71. then went home. with the 14th i was a recon sgt. so i guess we have been the same places. hank sanders.

Name:  Rance Jurevwicz, Capt., Capt., USA, Ret
Email: info@veteranprograms.com
Phone: 909-864-5060
Date:  7 Jul 08

Comments: FANTASTIC Web Site.  We have added a link to our monthly newsletter so that more veterans can be made aware of this tremendous resource.  Also, please visit our web site to learn about hidden government benefits you are eligible for and how to significantly increase your service-connected compensation or VA pension.  www.veteranprograms.com

Name:  James Deno
Email: jmdeno@ffni.com
Phone: 219-275-6953
Date:  22-June 2008

Comments: Served with Battery C, 17th Field Artillery Battalion in Korea 1955-1956 at Camp St. Barbara.  Have been trying to contact personnel from that unit for some time now. Anyone out there that served with our unit I would really appreciate hearing from you.  Thanks.

Name:  Carlos(Charles) Frausto
Email: cofrausto@windstream.net
Phone: 505-318-6462
Date:  20 June 2008

Comments:  I was at Camp McIntyre Hq.Btry,1st 17th from 1968 to 1969.  Buddies, as you know, most of us have been exposed to Agent Orange. I have been ill for awhile. I recently came back from the VA Medical Ctr.. I went through the Agent Orange exam. If you have diabetes or any other illness, need to go to the VA.. especially if you served in Korea 1968 to 1969. Contact me, if you need more information. God Bless, Carlos Charles Frausto

Name:  DJ Czerniejewski
Email: ElGatoRenegado@cox.net
Phone: 602-324-9099
Date:  15 June 2008

Comments: The 1st Bn, 17th FA was my very first TOE unit in the Army. I was with HHB and Svc Btry at Camp McIntyre, Korea from Jan70 to Nov70 when it stood down and left for the USA. We were part of I Corps Group Artillery.

Name:  Rafael E. Diaz-Garcia
Email: rdiaz009@satx.rr.com
Phone: 210-659-5316
Date:  12 June 2008

Comments: Brothers, I changed my e-mail, as you see above. I serve with the 17th Artillery in Viet Nam from Mar 66 to Mar 68. I was a medic mostly with C Battery. I live just outside of San Antonio, TX. Sorry I miss the reunion that you guys had here in San Antonio, for I was out of town during that time. I hope that all continue well and may the Lord Bless all our troops serving.

Rafael Diaz
1SG Ret USA

Name:  ron mitchell
Email: mitchellfarms@pldi.net
Phone: 405-392-2796
Date:  10 may 2008

Comments: just a note, c battery, 2nd 17th fa was my first unit after ait. was with them from 61 until 62 on potato hill, ft sill, ok

Name:  Norman R. Jones
Email: AnKhe2nd17FA68@aol.com
Phone: 512-247-2920
Date:  April 27,2008

Comments:  TO ALL,  On June 01,2008 there will be a segment on NBC DATELINE pertaining to the morning of April 03, 1968 when C-Battery 2-17 was over run. There were 3 veterans from C-2-17th Artillery interview and filmed in a special presentation of a Purple Heart to the Widow of SP4 Donald Kelly.

Name:  joe b. flores
Email: rmhtxcav@msn.com
Phone: 
Date:  March 21, 2008

Comments: a battery 2nd battalion 17th arty 173rd airborne  based out of lz action march 69 to feb 70

Name:  John deTreville
Email: jdetreville@yahoo.com
Phone: 919-844-6654
Date:  March 18, 2008

Comments: I have added some video clips of the 17 FA in 1967 and 1968 on youtube.  I hope to add more as time allows and also improve the quality.  You can access the videos by going to youtube and typing HistoryPackRat in the search line.  Feel free to add corrections or additional information in the page comment section if you recognize people or or want to add information about events pictured in the clips.

Name:  Mike "Ding" Klingeman
Email: LQQKY64VETTE@aol.com
Phone: 0000000000
Date:  March 8, 08

Comments: I was the RTO on number one gun in 1969 at LZ Schueller. Anyone else out there.

Name:  Mark Higginson
Email: Bagger717@sbcglobal.net
Phone: 6148900534
Date:  23 Feb 08

Comments: Gentlemen,
I served with C Btry 7 17th, Camp Pelham, Korea Jul 69 to Apr 70 as a forward observer, battery XO, and BC. During that period, attached at different times to 1st 9th Inf and 1st 38th Inf in the DMZ. Apr 70 transferred to HHB as Assist S3 until DEROS Aug 70. A fictionalized version of my tour is recounted in one of my novels, North of the River, published in 2000. I have a website at www.DMZnovels.com. That year in Korea was probably the most memorable of my life. I am looking forward to the reunion in 2009 as I would love to go back to Ft. Sill and see it after all these years. Last there in 1975 when I was in the reserves, 8 inch SP unit. Be well.   Mark

Name:  Hikmat Sadon
Email: hikmatsadon@yahoo.com
Phone: 7701341670
Date:  Feb.24.08

Comments:  Hey everybody,
  I am one of the Iraqi local interpreters who worked with Cpt Haught, in Kirkuk Province. It was my pleasure to work with such a man. I have contact with him. He has been recently moved to 17th Artillery Regiment, 1st Battalion.
       Sincerely yours
          Hikmat

Name:  Don Ballard
Email: dnballard@yahoo.com
Phone: 2563293601
Date:  Feb. 16 2008

Comments:  Would love to find any body in camp McIntyre in 1967 and 1968  Sam Wilkerson, Terry Vaughn, the only 2 names I can remember. I was dispatch in the motor pool. give me a call any time,   thanks Don Ballard

Name:  Jack Picciolo
Email: purrsfive@comcast.net
Phone: 8159197507
Date:  2/2/2008

Comments: An announcement will appear in the Jan. 08 newsletter concerning the mailing of the newsletter. I will email the current newsletter to anyone who has internet access and can open a Microsoft Word Document. Please send a current email address to receive the newsletter online and not in the regular mail.  We will continue to send it by regular mail if you do not have internet access or the software to open the document. I will continue to mail the newsletter to everyone till I receive your approval to send it as an attachment in an email.

Name:  Rhonda (McCowan) Grimmer
Email: rhonda36@hotmail.com
Phone: 701-770-5926
Date:  01-30-08

Comments: Just wanted to say hello to all, my brother was PFC Ralph C McCowan, he was KIA on 4-3-68.  Seems odd that it will soon be the 40th anniversary of his death.  He was only 19.  I wear a bracelet with his info on everyday.  He is by no means forgotten.  My nephew is in the army and has been to Iraq, he assures us that Ralph was with him and kept him from harms way. It is nice to see others care too.  We think of Ralph often, and I make sure that if the moving wall comes within driving distance that I make that trek.  I have been to the wall in DC also. Thank You for this great site.  God Bless all of you, Rhonda and Family

Name:  Larry Miller
Email: millerle@bellsouth.net
Phone: 7044892130
Date:  1/17/08

Comments: Captain George Williams was originally From Virginia Beach Virginia.

Name:  Paul Fusco
Email: pfvet@optonline.net
Phone: 7325133927
Date:  1/14/08

Comments: Does anyone know where Captain George F Williams was from? He was with
C/2nd 17th 1967 1968???

Thanks, Paul Fusco

Name:  David Laukat
Email: davidlaukat@cox.net
Phone: 4056726117
Date:  1/11/2008

Comments:   I am the Honorary CSM for the 14th FA Regimental Association and am just taking a look-see of your website.  You can view ours at 14faregiment.org and see what all we have done.  Our regiments/associations are almost physically located together at Fort Sill and our Soldiers see your unit everyday.  That's the way it should be; work together/fight together.  In fact that's exactly what our two units have been doing over the last few deployments.  Many Soldiers from the 1-14 FA have deployed with the 17 FA.   It is great to see that you have an association up and going.  There just are not very many at this level.  Wish you the best.

Name:  william j ruud
Email: pinkwilly7878076@aol.com
Phone: 8455911426
Date:  1/10/2008

Comments:  I was in Korea 1961/62 B bat 1st how 17th artillery camp hoilday with dick alexson and a whole bunch of real great guys we were a real close bunch even the little rat 1st sgt.

Name:  Richard C. Alexson
Email: ccrff45@verizon.net
Phone: 508-539-9934
Date:  12/31/07

Comments: I was stationed with B Btry 1st Howitzer Bn Camp Hiday Korea 1962-1963. I have pictures of some of the guys and the camp, that I would like to share with anyone interested in seeing them.

Name:  Alan Mitchem
Email: kahlil@wildblue.net
Phone: 501-888-4246
Date:  12-1-07

Comments: 2nd Div 17th FA Camp Pelham Korea Bravo Battery, MASTER BLASTER 1980-1982

Name:  Norman R. Jones
Email: AnKhe2nd17FA68@aol.com
Phone: 5122472920
Date:  November 24,2007

Comments: Nolan L. Putman of Mena, Arkansas passed away November 24, 2007 at his home. His funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 28, 2007 at 12:00 PM at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church in Mena. Interment will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Big Fork, Arkansas. Nolan has invited all that knew him to attend his funeral. He has asked all that knew him to make a donation to PTSD research. Flowers can be sent to Beasley-Wood Funeral Home, 611 Janssen, Mena, Arkansas. Condolence cards can be sent to Betty Putman, P.O. Box 427, Mena, AR 71953.

Name:  Jay L. Wright
Email: shortwheeler58@hotmail.com
Phone: 435-789-1686
Date:  11-21-07

Comments: I served with Charlie Battery 2/17 FA from 1980 to 81 and again from 1983 to 84 near sunu-ri South Korea. Just want to wish all you guys and gals a very Happy holiday and a great New Year. I have many memories of C battery (mostly good) and am glad I stumbled onto this website. I just want to say I am very proud to have served with all of you.       
      On Guard!

Name:  Paul Fusco
Email: pfvet@optonline.net
Phone: 7328866344
Date:  Nov 20,2007

Comments: We just want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

Paul & Jane Fusco

Name:  Larry Haas
Email: humveefun@aol.com
Phone: 8054819330
Date:  11/2007

Comments: served 2nd 17 arty a battery 70 71 have a lot of movies of the battery in Nha Trang.

Name:  Norman R. (Richard) Jones
Email: AnKhe2nd17FA68@aol.com
Phone: 5122472920
Date:  11-14-2007

Comments: Ed, Glad to see you have the web site back up and running. Keep up the good Work! Will see you in DC next Veterans Day at our next reunion.

Name:  Jack Farr
Email: hunter_662@yahoo.com
Phone: 662-415-0330
Date:  10/15/2007

Comments: I served with C battery 1st Battalion - 17th Field Artillery as a 13B from 01/1998 until 07/2000... I just happened across the site. Great site...

Name:  SSG DAVID W SHEETS
Email: cowboycop212@yahoo.com
Phone: 719-649-3580
Date:  09/oct/07

Comments: I just left FT SIll. Was will 17th BDE and deployed with them. I want to thank u for your service and would like to offer any help I can.

Name:  Richard A. Conklin
Email: dick.conklin@us.army.mil
Phone: 3092669491
Date:  28 Sep 07

Comments: I was in the 2nd 17th from July 1970 thru March 1971.  Charlie battery 2/17th stationed at Bam Me Thout East Field.

Name:  Jerry Corley
Email: SergeantCorley@aol.com
Phone: 9722647086
Date:  14 September, 2007

Comments: I was assigned to 2/17 (towed 8" Howitzers) in Korea in 1963/1964. I returned to the states and spent time with Gunnery Department U.S. Artillery School at Ft. Sill. In 1965 I was assigned to 1/17 supporting the Artillery School with equipment. I then transferred to 1/40 to deploy to Vietnam.

Name:  Paul Fusco
Email: pfvet@optonline.net
Phone: 7328866344
Date:  9/11/07

Comments: I have been contacted by Military Awards Division.

Looking for anyone who witness (at the time) 2nd Lt Larry D. Sadler present's and actions on 3 April 1968  with C/Battery 2nd Bn 17th Arty. Letters are needed to send to Military Awards Division for an award which is long over due Please send letter's to Paul Fusco. 15 Jessica court, Jackson , NJ 08527. I will forward them on to the proper people.

Thanks

Name:  Don Davis
Email: dondavis1945@sbcglobal.net
Phone: 937-304-5408
Date:  09/07/07

Comments: I served with C battery 2/17th. from Dec. 65 to Jan. 66  Would be grateful to reconnect with some old buddies.
Thanks, Don Davis

Name:  Thomas Kurtz
Email:
Phone: 217-732-4357
Date:  Sep 3, 2007

Comments: Just a reminder to the veterans, family and friends of the 17th Artillery Regiment Association, the 2007 reunion is just a couple of months away (November 7-10). If you are planning on attending the reunion and haven't made your reservations yet, now is the time to do so. If you are going to stay at the Holiday Inn Downtown Market Square, in San Antonio, your room reservations must be made prior to October 6, 2007 to receive the associations room rates. I'm looking forward to seeing all there.

Name:  Sarah McCreight
Email: sarah.j.mccreight@us.army.mil
Phone: 253-966-1509
Date:  20 August 2007

Comments:  I'm looking for a comprehensive history of the 3-17 FA BN.  The information on this site only goes up thru 1971.  If anyone has anything more recent, please send me an email.

Name:  1SG Russell Thomas (Ret)
Email: ruthomas0222@roadrunner.com
Phone: 000-00-0000
Date:  7-28-2007

Comments: Greetings All: Was surfing the net looking for info and ran across this site. Great work one and all.  I also served with Charlie  2/17th FA. So I am looking for any one who served from June 1976 to June of 1977.  I do know the location of Dugan and Hartman. Just email and i will answer as soon as I pry the keyboard from the teenagers hands.
Remember Operation Paul Bunyan

Name:  Michael Underhill
Email: mju3006@yahoo.com
Phone: 00000000000
Date:  7-24-07

Comments: Get in touch with anybody in Svc Btry 1/17 Nov 92 to Sept 95.

Name:  Norman R. jones
Email: AnKhe2nd17thFA68@aol.com
Phone: -----------
Date:  07/18/2007

Comments: To all 17th Artillery Veterans:  The arrangements for Thomas (Top) Vernor at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA have been made.  His internment will be on Wednesday, August 1, 2007 at 1:00pm.  Everyone should meet at the Arlington National Cemetery Administrative Building at 12:15 pm.  There you'll receive instructions to follow. For those attending please wear your 17th caps, crest, etc.

Name:  Vincent Costanzi
Email: vcostanzi@hotmail.com
Phone: 443-876-3950
Date:  7-17-2007

Comments: Served with survey section of HHB 2/17 FA, Korea, Camp Pelham, 1978 to 1979

Name:  Norman R. Jones
Email: AnKhe2nd17FA68@aol.com
Phone: 5122472920
Date:  July 08, 2007

Notice:

Thomas Vernor one of our life members has passed. Thomas was born May 03, 1925 and deceased July 06, 2007. A memorial service will be held at O'Keefe - O'Bryant Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 11, 2007 at 11:AM, 3290 Ladnier Road, Gautier, MS 39552. (228) 497-7544  Tom will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery 2-3 weeks from now. Thomas had a long distinguished career with the Military and the CIA. We will post on this guest book the date of his services in Arlington National Cemetery as soon as it becomes available. Those wishing to send condolences to his family please contact me at the email address above and I will furnish the name and address. As most of you know, Tom had a long battle with cancer. Rest in peace my friend.

Name:  Mike Burke
Email: cbtry17fa1ffv@earthlink.net
Phone: 949-274-8416
Date:  7-8-2007

Comments:  It has been a long time without a Posting from me here in the website. However the news of one of our fellow Veterans Passing, Top Vernor as most of new him as, is truly a sad day and a huge loss. He'll be missed and my thoughts go out to his Family. He was one hell of a Soldier & one hell of a good Man.

Mike Burke--------C Btry 2/17, RVN

Name:  Dwight Brennfoerder
Email: Dwight@GoodmanArchitects.com
Phone: 417-781-1042
Date:  6/30/07

Comments: Somebody here was looking for me a couple of years ago, I don't think I ever responded, maybe didn't see the email until today.  I was a Ban Me Thout in 1/70 - 5/70 as an artillery surveyor.  Is there anyone out there I'd know?

Name:  Ed Hitchner
Email: webmaster@17thartilleryregiment.org
Phone: ---------------
Date:  June 18, 2007

Comments:  I have a nephew serving in Iraq; training the Baghdad police force. Not a pleasant job. We created a web site for him at www.JerryFretz.com  Post a message there when you get time. He would enjoy reading it.

Name:  Michael Ray Hallman
Email: hmichaelray@bellsouth.net
Phone: --------------
Date:  06-17-07

Comments:  I was in Headquarters Battery, 3rd. Battalion of the 17th Field Artillery, at Merrell Barracks, Nurnberg, Germany from February, 1969 to July of 1970.  I was assigned to Survey Section, Headquarters Battery Commander's Driver, Battalion Executive Officer's Driver, and Red Eye Missile Section Chief.  Contact me at the e-mail address if any of you were stationed at the 3rd and 17th during this time. 

Name:  Norman R. Jones
Email: AnKhe2nd17FA68@aol.com
Phone: ----------
Date:  May 24,2007

Comments:  Memorial Day is observed on May 28, 2007. Memorial Day should be an occasion to bring Americans together to honor our fallen heroes. If you want to honor these heroes, visit a veterans' cemetery on Memorial Day. Attend a parade without the divisive political signs. Make cards for the comrades of the fallen that are recuperating in military and VA hospitals.  Lay a wreath at the stone of a departed hero. We Americans need to remember why Memorial Day is special. It's not about picnics or trips to the beach. It's not about making pro- or anti-war statements. It's not about supporting political candidates. It's about honor, duty and the ultimate sacrifice. It's about people who have decided that the United States is worth dying for. Lets remember those that have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Name:  GLENN R. SWIGER
Email: mswiger1@verizon.net
Phone: 304-564-3570
Date:  66/68

Comments: WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANY ONE FROM D BATTERY IN THIS TIME ZONE. DIDN'T KNOW ANY ONE ON THE LIST FROM THE LAST REUNION. ANYONE WHO WENT FROM D BATTERY WOULD BE APPRECIATED. WANT TO GO THE NEXT REUNION IN NOV. LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING ANYONE FROM D BATTERY.
GLENN

Name:  GLENN R. SWIGER
Email: mswiger1@verizon.net
Phone: 304-564-3570
Date:  1966-1968

Comments: I WAS A CHIEF OF SECTION ON #1 SPLIT TRAIL 155. DURING 66-68. WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANYONE FROM THAT TIME IF AT ALL POSSIBLE. AND WHEN DO YOU EXPECT ANOTHER REUNION?  KEEP ME IN TOUCH.
GLENN R. SWIGER

Name:  Jack Picciolo
Email: purrsfive@comcast.net
Phone: 8158383418
Date:  5-3-07

Comments:  I found this article last week and it was a very disturbing read.  Jon Town was a member of the 2/17th FA and served in Iraq during its first deployment in 2004.  His problems with the Army and VA are a disgrace.  No matter what side you follow in this war, his case is disturbing.  I knew very little of the type of discharge which placed him back in civilian life but have been researching  Army Regulation 635-200, Chapter 5-13.  A Separation Because of Personality Disorder has been used by the Army to separate close to 6000 soldiers. Is it being used as a quick cheap way of separating soldiers to save money?  Town's claim that he accepted the separation following the advice of the Fort Carson psychologist that his disability benefits and bonus would be received.  The article is very long but please go to the website and form your own opinion.  I will try to contact Jon Town and learn of his current situation.  I think this Redleg is being treated wrongly.
http://www.thenation.com/doc/20070409/kors
Jack

Name:  James V. Puya
Email: class1591@care2.com
Phone: 561-968-2684
Date:  4-28-07

Comments: I'm looking for anyone who served from February 1941-1942 at Ft. Bragg. I hope to hear from you. 

Name:  Steve Lowrey
Email: lowreystephen@sbcglobal.net
Phone: 860-456-1309
Date:  24 Apr. 2007

Comments: I just saw the notice that 3 more from the 2/17 died in Iraq.  When did they go back? Last I heard the 1/17 was in the sand box, are both battalions over there now?

Name:  Keri Bell for Raymond Parker
Email: synnwitch1977@gmail.com
Phone: 4015256193
Date:  4/8/2007

Comments:  Hello All,
I am writing on behalf of Raymond Parker.
He is my boyfriend's father and served at Camp McIntyre as part of the 1/17th from early 1968 to January of 1969. 
I am trying to find people he served with, or that knew him. He doesn't talk about being in Korea very often, but I think it would be a nice surprise to give him the gift of communication with some of his buddies. So, if anyone is out there, please feel free to email me and I will certainly get back to you.
Thanks!

Name:  Paul Fusco
Email: pfvet@optonline.net
Phone: 7328866344
Date:  4/01/07

Comments:  C/Battery Once again the night our lives were severely changed forever is upon us. 3 April. I ask all my brothers to stop for a moment and say a short prayer to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom. They are the hero's of C/Batt/2nd Bn/17th Artillery. I ask that we also say a prayer for our younger brothers who are now in harms way !

In Brotherhood, Paul Fusco

Name:  Ronald L Skirvin
Email: Rabdodske@yahoo.com
Phone: 270-351-0102
Date:  03/27/2007

Comments: How is everyone doing, I have been out of the net, for awhile. I hope that all is well. I need to see if I have paid my due's for 2007.  Thanks Ron S.

Name:       Tripp Tart
Email:      tripp.tart@mckesson.com
Telephone:  704-895-8374
Date:       Monday, March 12, 2007

Comments: I served as FDO for Charlie Battery/2-17th Field Artillery (Camp Pelham/ROK ) from 1978-1979. I'm interested in establishing contact with anyone that served in C Battery during that time, either via e-mail or phone.

Name:  Hamilton Pieper
Email: hpieper@hawaiiantel.net
Phone: 808-282-6730
Date:  March 10, 2007

Comments:  Hi, I was with the C Battery 2nd/17th from approx. Aug 66 through Oct 67. Any info on C Battery during my time would be greatly appreciated. In addition, I've really been hit with Agent Orange problems, any others?

Would be great to hear from you.

Name:  Rick Landrum
Email: Rick.Landrum@honeywell.com
Phone: 225-642-2739
Date:  2/28/2007

Comments:

Exec O2 C Bty
3rd Battalion 17th FA
Merrill Barracks
Nurnburg
1970-1972
Looking for guys who were there then

Name:  Norman R. jones
Email: AnKhe2nd17FA68@aol.com
Phone: ----------
Date:  02/14/2007

Comments: NEVER TOO LATE!!!!!!
 
Louis Mazzarella, 58, of Shirley, training officer for the Army National Guard Armory in Riverhead, received the Bronze Star from Congressman Tim Bishop last month at a special ceremony at the armory for his heroic actions in a special forces camp battle in Bu Prang in the central highlands of Vietnam 37 years ago.
Tim Bishop is a master at seeing vets are honored

By Drew Crouthamel

Sitting in a glass bubble atop a B-24 Liberator, Carmine Biondi flew 40 bombing missions in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He survived Japanese gunfire, while his bombardier was shot through the neck and killed. He lived to tell about a plane crash on his final mission — selling war bonds on a barn-storming tour of the country.

But when he went to collect his medals from the Veterans Administration, the Mastic Beach resident had to prove who he was — a bona-fide war hero deserving of two Distinguished Flying Crosses, six air medals and some lesser ribbons.

"Nobody could give me a straight answer," he said. "They didn't know me."

They didn't know retired Staff Sgt. Vincent Valente of Mount Sinai, either. They didn't know Robert Ward of Ridge, Robert De LaVergne of Patchogue, or Joseph Loggia of Wading River. They couldn't find the record of Staff Sgt. Louis Mazzarella of Shirley, who finally received a Bronze Star, with the "V" for valor medal, 37 years to the day after North Vietnamese troops attacked U.S. forces in the Battle of Bu Prang.

Enter Congressman Tim Bishop and two full-time aides working on nothing but veterans' issues — this in a district with one of the highest concentrations of veterans in the United States. Over the course of 2006, the congressman and his staff secured more than 300 medals for veterans in the First Congressional District, which includes Southold, Riverhead and much of Brookhaven Town. Each veteran, on average, received five medals.

Other members of Long Island's congressional delegation have secured overdue medals for their constituents, but you'd be hard-pressed to find another congressman in the country who has cut through the red tape of veterans affairs on so many occasions, according to aides to Mr. Bishop.

"The history of our country was written by ordinary people doing extraordinary things," Congressman Bishop told a gathering of veterans in Patchogue last summer, when he handed out medals to Mr. Biondi, Mr. De LaVergne and half a dozen other vets.

Mr. De LaVergne was "young and stupid," according to his wife, Janice, when he volunteered to row across the Rhine River with other strapping GIs to scout the German side in 1945. That daring nighttime recon mission earned Mr. De LaVergne a Bronze Star.

Only a few years before, he was a teenager in Patchogue — "a local yokel," he said — when he was drafted into the Army. He received his 1A classification on his birthday.

From Camp Upton, he was attached to the 97th Infantry, which trained for eight months in California, preparing to be deployed in the war against Japan. But then German forces exploited Allied lines at the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944, and three weeks later, Mr. De LaVergne's unit was camped in Europe with no winter gear. They went right up to the front lines and participated in the last push to the Rhine.

Mr. De LaVergne said his unit was one of the first to cross the Bridge at Remagen — the final bridge standing across the Rhine. They played tag with the Russians in Czechoslovakia. And when the war in Europe ended, they shipped off to the Pacific Theater. He spent six months as part of the occupying army in Japan, before getting his discharge.

A member of the Greatest Generation, Mr. De LaVergne returned to the South Shore of Long Island and worked for 40 years in the sign business. The Greatest Generation, as a group, just wanted to forget about the horrors they had encountered. The medals they had earned, but not received, were relegated to a back burner as they built lives and families in postwar suburbia.

"They wanted to come back and start a family and they didn't want to think about their wartime experiences," said Joe Cortale of Ridge, who accepted seven awards, including a Bronze Star, on behalf of his father, the late Rosario Cortale.

Congressman Bishop said veterans who received overdue medals fall into three categories: In many cases the veteran doesn't put in for them — until his mortality starts to catch up with him. An aide to the congressman, Erin D'Eletto, said veterans tell her: I don't want the medals for myself, I want them for my kids and grandchildren.

"I haven't gotten them on display yet," said Mr. De LaVergne. "I want to get a cabinet — I still have my original dress uniform — take all the insignia off it and put them in a case and leave it to my grandson, Eric."

In some cases, the medals come posthumously, and poignantly. Dominick Muraco, who served in the Navy Reserve during World War II, contacted Mr. Bishop's office about receiving his overdue medals, including a World War II Victory Medal. Unfortunately, the paperwork did not go through before Mr. Muraco died. His wife of 55 years, Lola, and a family friend, Lou Gallo of Miller Place, accepted the medals on Mr. Muraco's behalf.

Sgt. Donald Hegermiller, the father of Riverhead Police Chief David Hegermiller, also received his medals posthumously. The elder Hegermiller, who served in the Army during the Korean War, earned a National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal with Bronze Star attachment, the Combat Infantryman Badge and the U.N. Service Medal.

In a few cases, the congressman's office said, medals had been awarded at the time they were earned, but the veteran has lost them and requests Mr. Bishop's help in securing replacements.

And then there are the times when the "fog of war" renders accounts forgotten and records lost. You can also add to the fog a massive bureaucracy in Washington and a 1973 fire at the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis, Mo., which destroyed more than 16 million files. It takes persistence, and a congressman's powers, to cut through it all.

Mr. Valente, of Mount Sinai, served in General George Patton's Third Army, but when it came time to get his overdue Bronze Star for Valor, he came up against a bureaucracy he could not overcome.

"These men came to us out of frustration," Mr. Bishop said before a ceremony in Medford in 2005, where a number of local vets, including Mr. Valente, received overdue medals. "They were overlooked due to inefficiency, the workings of the bureaucracy or just the fog of war."

The fire at the records center wiped out the files of 80 percent of those discharged from the Army between 1912 and 1960 and 75 percent of those discharged from the Air Force from 1947 to 1964. No duplicate copies of the records destroyed were maintained. There was no microfilm copy. The were no indexes created prior to the fire.

The two full-time aides Mr. Bishop employs work with veterans to get their medals, despite the missing records. Sometimes, all it takes is for the veteran to produce his discharge papers. Other times, though, it takes a detailed reconstruction of the battlefield heroics for a vet to get his medal.

Staff Sgt. Mazzarella, now attached to the National Guard armory in Riverhead, served in Vietnam. He served as howitzer section chief for Battery C, 2nd Battalion, 17th Artillery at Bu Prang, when North Vietnamese troops assaulted their position on Dec. 1, 1969. On numerous occasions, according to the Army, rounds exploded in the battery position. Enemy attacks became so intense, Sgt. Mazzarella could not fire more than 10 rounds before drawing return fire.

"We were almost wiped out," he said.

According to his Bronze Star award, "It was through the courageous and unselfish efforts of Staff Sergeant Mazzarella and his entire section that the battery was credited with destroying several 75mm recoilless rifle positions and disrupting the operations of the 66th North Vietnamese regiment."

He received his Bronze Star on Dec. 2 at a ceremony at the Riverhead Armory, 37 years after the Battle of Bu Prang. While others in his unit received their medals, Sgt. Mazzarella says his valor went unheralded until Congressman Bishop intervened.

"Everyone else got theirs," Sgt. Mazzarella said. "Apparently, mine got lost."

He had been trying since the Nixon administration to get his Bronze Star. Without an officer's account of his heroics, there was nothing to be done for Sgt. Mazzarella. "They told me, 'If you find any additional information, stay in touch.' I was always hoping for something to surface."

It just so happened that Sgt. Mazzarella happened to be talking with the congressman's office on an unrelated matter, when he asked what procedures were involved in tracking down his overdue medal. He was told: If you don't have the original paperwork, the congressman's office would have to do a reconstruction of the events that day in 1969, using witness accounts from three persons, an after-action report from the National Archives and a petition to the Pentagon from Mr. Bishop himself.

Then he had to prove that his three witnesses served in Mr. Mazzarella's unit. "And then we waited and waited and waited," he said. "It was something I knew I was going to get and I could never get it in my hands. It was like any empty promise."

Sgt. Mazzarella just wishes his parents were still alive to see him finally get his medal.

The process was started in the early 1970s. It was completed on a winter's day in 2006, when Sgt. Mazzarella's entire Army National Guard Unit in Riverhead saw Congressman Bishop hand him his Bronze Star. It was the most prestigious decoration secured by Mr. Bishop for a veteran since he took office.

"They are all an honor to do," Mr. Bishop said. "I am proudest that we have established an office that can get things done for veterans."

Name:  Thomas Kurtz
Email: Kurtz_T@msn.com
Phone: 217-732-4357
Date:  13 Feb 07

Comments: Richard Smith has resigned as president of the association due to personal health reasons. Jack Stroud will assume the duties of the association president until the next election at the general membership meeting November 10, 2007.

Thomas Kurtz
Past President

Name:  Jack Picciolo
Email: purrsfive@comcast.net
Phone: 8158383418
Date:  2-12-2007

Comments: My telephone number listed in the January Newsletter that was mailed is wrong.  The last two numbers are transposed. 
The correct number is 815 838 3418

Jack Picciolo  Association Secretary

Name:  George Schaefer
Email: clumsms@alltel.net
Phone: 2056297650
Date:  1-30-07

Comments:  Anyone in or around Camp McIntyre (KOREA) I was there all of 1960 but would like to exchange our views during our tours.

Name:  Cindy Powell Jones
Email: cljones715@bellsouth.net
Phone: 770-969-3637
Date:  1-20-07

Comments:  My father, Donald E. Powell was with HHB 2BN 17th FA at Camp Radcliff, Vietnam from Sept 1967 to Oct 1969. He was the Chief of Firing. I am looking for anyone that may have known him. My dad spent appx. 15 years at Fort Sill Okla. as an instructor on the 155's and some other guns. My mother is Nancy Powell.  Please anyone with info please contact me. My father passed away 1-28-91 and there is not a day that goes by that I do not think of him.

Name:  Doug Runice
Email: dougrun68@yahoo.com
Phone: 715-534-1234
Date:  1/12/07

Comments: I have a picture of what I think to be the main building (terminal) of Dalat's airport taken in 1970.  If anyone remembers what it looks like and thinks they can ID it, please email me at dougrun68@yahoo.com  I have a beer wagered on it. Thanks

Name:  Jerry (DOC) Cody
Email: jcody@ntin.net
Phone: 940-964-2781
Date:  12-29-06

Comments: I have a new e-mail address The e-mail address is jcody@ntin.net . I wish everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR.

Regards,  Jerry (doc) Cody

Name:  Richard A. Smith
Email: rsmith3024@nc.rr.com
Phone: 919-575-0213
Date:  Dec. 24, 2006

Comments: Just a little note to wish all of you Redlegs and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!  I look forward to seeing everyone in San Antonio this coming October.
Sincerely,
Richard
Richard A. Smith-President
17th Artillery Regiment Association

Name:  Paul & Jane Fusco
Email: pfvet@optonline.net
Phone: 7328866344
Date:  12/24/06

Comments: Here's wishing all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

Paul & Jane Fusco

Name:  Norman R. (Richard) Jones
Email: AnKhe2nd17FA68@aol.com
Phone: 0000000000
Date:  12-23-2006

Comments:  I wish all a MERRY CHRISTMAS with a happy and blessed NEW YEAR. Keep the 2/17th Artillery in your thoughts and prayers as they serve their tour in Iraq. I pray that they will all return home safely.

Name:  Rich Siebe
Email: r47s89sp@aol.com
Phone: 9164861890
Date:  Dec. 19, 2006

Comments: I would like to wish each and every one that served in the 17th Artillery Regiment a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Name:       john p. clingan
Email:      jocling7@sbcglobal.net
Date:       Wednesday, December 13, 2006

Comments:  I was in Hq Btry, 3rd Bn, 17th Field Artillery, initially I was a Hardt Kaserne in Schwabisch-Gmund, Nov. 1963, in Dec. 1963, we were transferred to Merrell Barracks in Nurnberg, West Germany.  Sad to see it is no longer a US Military Post. in Nov. 1965 was sent to Cu Chi, South Vietnam, was with the 2nd Bn, 32nd Field Artillery, Proud Americans with the 25th Infantry Division. We were in the Iron Triangle area, about 20 miles NW of Saigon.  I made it back ok, but the Agent Orange cause me to become a diabetic, since 2003, I have been on a 100% disability from the VA as a result and am now retired, at 62 years old.  I live in Houston, TX.  Was an accountant in the energy and legal industries. Have a 22 year old son about to graduate from Texas Tech.  I am a U. of Ark. Razorback.  I have found a lot of my old stuff from the Army and the 17th. What memories.

Name:  Gil Bernabe
Email: Gilbernabe29@aol.com
Phone: 7033230946
Date:  11 Dec 2006

Comments: Merry Christmas to all and a super 2007. Currently in northern VA and still working for Dept of Defense.

Cheers,
Gil

Name:  Donald Blankin
Email: Donnie_B@Charter.net
Phone: 864-839-2773
Date:  12-04-06

Comments: I was a Forward Observer with C 2/35 Infantry 4th Infantry Division. On a number of occasions in Sept. of 1968 at Duc-Lap I had to call on you fellows for a little help...many thanks!!!!

Don B. www.Cacti35th.org

Name:  C.D.TATE  (SGT.TATER)
Email: DT8R@AOL.COM
Phone: 626-622-3190
Date:  12-1-2006

Comments: I WAS WITH THE 2ND/17TH IN NAM AT LZ SCHULLER, BRAVO BATT. GUN#3  JAN.69 THRU THE MOVE TO DALAT FEB.70

Name:  Thomas Kurtz
Email: Kurtz_T@msn.com
Phone: 217-732-9336
Date:  Nov 22, 2006

Comments:

Wishing all a great Thanksgiving. For those who are or who will be traveling be safe.

Tom

Name:  mike pearson
Email: dinkydou_70@frontiernet.net
Phone: 928-681-3345
Date:  11-16-06

Comments: before da lat I was in duc trong, a btry. 5th. & 22nd., does any one know of a web site for that location.. thanx......

Name:  Rich Siebe
Email: r47s89sp@aol.com
Phone: 916-486-1890
Date:  10/16/2006

Comments:

I would like to thank all of you that attended the Reunion in Chaleston this past week. Thank you for your contributions to the Scholarship Fund and the General Fund. I had a great time and enjoyed seeing all of you that attended.

Rich Siebe
Treasurer, 17th Artillery Regiment Association.

Name:  John deTreville
Email: jdetreville@yahoo.com
Phone: 919-844-6654
Date:  October 16, 2006

Comments:

Just a quick word of thanks to the Association Officers and everyone else who put in all the hard work of planning and carrying out last weekend's outstanding reunion at Charleston.  As they say, "A great time was had by all."  You are missing out on a great time if you attend a few of these.  Not only do you get to meet old friends, but to meet new ones.  You also get to hear events and stories you might have missed at the time of the "everyday heroes" of the 17th FA. 

Name:  Virginia Brackett, daughter of Edmund C. Roberts, Jr.
Email: gingerbrackett@hotmail.com
Phone: 816-587-8167
Date:  10-9-06

Comments: 

My name is Virginia Brackett, and I would appreciate comments from anyone who served with my father, Captain Edmund C. Roberts, Jr. He served as C.O. of Company A, 17th Infantry, 7th Division, and was killed in January 1951. I am writing his short biography and hoping to come to know him better, as I was eight months old when he died.

Thank you so much.

Name:  Richard A. Smith
Email: rsmith3024@nc.rr.com
Phone: (919) 575-0213
Date:  08/30/2006

Comments:

Dear Veteran, Family and Friends of the 17th Field Artillery Regiment,

Haven’t made one of the annual reunions of the 17th Artillery Regiment Association yet? Are you planning to attend the next reunion? If so, then now is the time to make those reservations. (If you have already made your reservations, then you can disregard this reminder.)

The 2006 Annual Reunion will be held at the North Charleston Inn, 2934 West Montague Avenue , North Charleston , South Carolina 29418 ; from October 11, 2006 thru October 14, 2006 . If you are planning on staying at the motel, reservations can be made by calling (843) 744-8281, and room rates are $75.00 per night, plus tax (12.5%). When making your motel room reservation and to receive their discounted room rates, be sure to tell them you are with the 17th Artillery Regiment Association. Motel room reservations must be made by September 6, 2006 . Cancellation of individual room reservations is required 30 days prior to arrival date. If you are staying at the North Charleston Inn, there is a complimentary free breakfast buffet. Remember to tip the staff appropriately.

Also, please use the attached reservation sheet to register with the association. There is an association registration fee of $25.00 per person to cover the cost of the annual banquet and refreshments in the hospitality room. If you wish to attend both boat tours on Thursday, October 12, 2006 , there is an additional fee of $69.00 per person. (Morning tour fee is $14.00 per person, evening cruise fee is $55.00 per person.) So please plan on attending and use the attached sheet to register with the association. All checks or money orders should be made out to: 17th Artillery Regiment Association and mailed to the Association Treasurer: Rich Siebe, 5513 Whitfield Way , Carmichael , CA 95608 .

So bring your photo albums, snapshots, movies and slides to share with everyone. If you have slides or 8mm movies, you will have to furnish your own projector. There is plenty of time to get reacquainted with old comrades or even make some new ones. We would love to see your spouses, family members and friends in attendance too. The Association Quartermaster, Jackie Stroud, will have “gear” items available in the hospitality room. So you can get them there or be an early bird and order them now.

ITINERARY:

Wednesday, October 11, 2006- Veterans, spouses, family and friends check in. Please sign in at the hospitality room and pick up your name tags. Tour on your own the numerous sites in and around Charleston .

Thursday, October 12, 2006- Boat Tour Schedules:
1st Tour: Leave Motel at 8:00 A. M. (Cost $14.00 per person)
2d Tour: Leaves Motel at 5:45 P. M. (Cost $55.00 per person)
(Travel will be by POV to departure points) There will be enough rental cars
therefore we can car pool.

NOTE: (Boat Tour Details - best to arrive at the departure point a half-hour prior to sailing) The first tour will be to Fort Sumter , where the Civil War began. The tour boat will depart at 0930 A. M., from Aquarium Warf, Liberty Square . The tour is approximately two hours an d fifteen minutes. One hour will be at Fort Sumter , and the remainder of the time is spent cruising around Charleston ’s historic harbor. Be sure to bring your camera. Parking is located at the city garage on the corner of Washington and Calhoun Streets. There is a parking fee of $5.00. (Do not park on the streets, as there is only a two hour time parking limit.)

The second tour will be a dinner cruise on the “Spirit of Carolina” (7 P. M. – 10 P. M.). The tour departs from Patriots Point Maritime Museum, in Mt. Pleasant, located across Cooper River from Charleston at 7 P. M. (free parking). There will be several entrees to choose from for dinner (not buffet style). The Flag Ship has two fully enclosed dining decks, each with its own live entertainment, dance floor and bar. You will be responsible for your own bar tab. The third deck is ideal for viewing starry skies or more casual events. Dress is “nice casual” – no high heeled shoes, please.

Friday, October 13, 2006- The day has been set aside for individual tours of the numerous sites in and around Charleston . The Hospitality Room will be open from 8 A. M. to 12 P. M. (We have set aside the time period 8-10 P. M. in the hospitality room to show your slides or 8 mm movies)

Saturday, October 14, 2006- 8 A. M. - Annual General Membership Meeting in the Hospitality Room. (After the general membership meeting there will be time to continue individual tours of Charleston or you just may want to visit in the hospitality room)

5 P. M. – 8 P. M. Annual Association Banquet (Buffet-chicken, beef, vegetables and desert) Dress is causal. The remainder of the evening will be in the Hospitality Room.

So please plan on attending. I hope to see everyone there. If you have any questions about the reunion, contact me or any association officer. If you are unable to attend and would like to leave a message to your fellow veterans, please mail or email them to me.

Sincerely;  

Richard A. Smith
Association President
604 24th Street
Butner , NC 27509-2134
(919) 575-0213
Richard A. Smith

Name:  Duane Johns
Email: squirrle42n3@yahoo.com
Phone: 580-595-4850
Date:  27 August 06
Comments: Served with HHB 2/17 Camp Casey Korea 2003/04, And at FOB Ramadi Iraq 2004/05.

Name:  Rich Siebe
Email: r47s89sp@aol.com
Date:  August 25, 2006
Comments: The Reunion is less than 2 months away. If you plan on attending get you money in as soon as possible. If you are attending and have pictures of your time with the 17th Artillery on a CD or can get them put on a CD, please bring them with you so we can put them on the Associations computer for all to see.

Name:  Terry L. Burns
Email: burnst@comcast.net
Phone: 571-216-9701
Date:  8/11/06

Comments: Just checking in on the 1-17thFA.  Impressive web site. As a former battalion commander, I will always be interested in the Copperhead battalion.

Name:  Thomas Kurtz
Email: Kurtz_T@msn.com
Phone: 277-332-4357
Date:  August 3, 2006

Comments: Need to remind those who are going to attend the 2006 Reunion (October 11-14). Room reservations at the North Charleston Inn (877-464-2700 or 843-744-8281) must be made NLT September 9 to recive their room discount. Make sure when making the reservations to tell them you are with the 17th Artillery Regiment Association. Will see you there.

Name:  Jarrell Martin
Email: martin34772@yahoo.com

Comments: 1/17th 1991

Name:       Richard A. Smith
Email:      rsmith3024@nc.rr.com
Battery:    A/ 4thBn
Date:       Monday, July 24, 2006

Comments: I have a piece of info I wanted to pass along to you guys.  I received information Sunday from the CSM that one of our guys in the 1st Bn in Iraq was injured Saturday night by an IED.  His left arm was shattered and has since been MED-VAC to Germany for surgery.  I'll keep you updated as I receive any further.

Richard Smith
President
17th Artillery Regiment Association

Name:  Donald Johansen
Email: Donnyjo@charter.net
Phone:
Date:  7/23/06

Comments: Hi, My freind Doug Runice directed me to this site and was glad to see that you had kept up with each other. I have but one comment; "Thank You for your service to our country." I served in the Corps stateside but sure did appreciate all the men that went over there to fight that war. Thanks aain men and God Bless......Semper Fi

Name:  David Greenwood
Email: daveyg33@yahoo.com
Date:  30 Jun 2006

Comments: I'm hoping to find out about the origin of the name of FOB Carpenter near Salaman Pak, Iraq, now renamed FOB Wyatt in honor of PFC Stephen E. Wyatt.  From what I've been able to learn, FOB Carpenter was home to Charlie Battery, 1/17 FA, in 2003.  I am wondering if the FOB name has any relationship to Carpenter's Battery of Civil War fame, or if it was named after a living person.  Thanks for any help anyone can give.

Dave Greenwood

Name:  Brian M. Dirrane
Email: bdirrane@aol.com
Date:  June 27, 2006
Comments: I came across this web site recently. I served as a lieutenant with the 2nd of the 17th in An Khe and surroundings including four month tdy with a marine battery on LZ Baldy outside of Chu Lai, from July 1967 to around mid March 1968. I thought it was a great Battalion and I was proud to serve with it. I was deeply saddened by the deaths of Lt Col Whitbeck and the members of C Battery (I served with that battery on a number of short assignments, and I regarded Lt. John Wilkerson - one of the Battery C KIA's - as a personel friend who was helpful and kind to me as I tried to contribute to the battery in some way). It was a great battery. I learned of the overrun when I was serving in Provisional Corps Vietnam in Phu Bai, up north, in the Corps Artillery S1 section. I had a stint and a few visits at Happy Valley with the Green Beret's and their two 105's and Captain Left. My memory had faded pretty well, but just recently my wife told me she had kept all of my letters from Vietnam, so I have just finished a mega flashback experience.

God Bless you all.

Name:  Doug Runice
Email: doug68@centurytel.net
Date:  6/24/06
Comments: Here is a link to one of our own who paid the ultimate sacrifice in 1970.  I have been communicating with david Bryant's cousin and he made this wonderful memorial website in tribute to "Bry".  We were in the same gun section in B Battery at LZ Schueller.  RIP my friend
http://david-bryant.memory-of.com

Name:  Doug Runice
Email: doug68@centurytel.net
Date:  6/15/06
Comments: Looking to make contact with John Bradley who was in B battery in 69-70.  He was a 1st Lt. the last I knew and think he was from Houston.

Name: Norman R. Jones
Email: AnKhe2nd17FA68@aol.com
Date: June 13, 2006
Comments: 17th Artillery Regiment Association 2006 Reunion Reminder

Dear Veteran, Family and Friends of the 17th Field Artillery Regiment,

Haven’t made one of the annual reunions of the 17th Artillery Regiment Association yet? Are you planning to attend the next reunion? If so, then now is the time to make those reservations. (If you have already made your reservations, then you can disregard this reminder.)

The 2006 Annual Reunion will be held at the North Charleston Inn, 2934 West Montague Avenue , North Charleston , South Carolina 29418 ; from October 11, 2006 thru October 14, 2006 . If you are planning on staying at the motel, reservations can be made by calling (843) 744-8281, and room rates are $75.00 per night, plus tax (12.5%). When making your motel room reservation and to receive their discounted room rates, be sure to tell them you are with the 17th Artillery Regiment Association. Motel room reservations must be made by September 6, 2006 . Cancellation of individual room reservations is required 30 days prior to arrival date. If you are staying at the North Charleston Inn, there is a complimentary free breakfast buffet. Remember to tip the staff appropriately.

Also, please use the attached reservation sheet to register with the association. There is an association registration fee of $25.00 per person to cover the cost of the annual banquet and refreshments in the hospitality room. If you wish to attend both boat tours on Thursday, October 12, 2006 , there is an additional fee of $69.00 per person. (Morning tour fee is $14.00 per person, evening cruise fee is $55.00 per person.) So please plan on attending and use the attached sheet to register with the association. All checks or money orders should be made out to: 17th Artillery Regiment Association and mailed to the Association Treasurer: Rich Siebe, 5513 Whitfield Way , Carmichael , CA 95608 .

So bring your photo albums, snapshots, movies and slides to share with everyone. If you have slides or 8mm movies, you will have to furnish your own projector. There is plenty of time to get reacquainted with old comrades or even make some new ones. We would love to see your spouses, family members and friends in attendance too. The Association Quartermaster, Jackie Stroud, will have “gear” items available in the hospitality room. So you can get them there or be an early bird and order them now.

ITINERARY:

Wednesday, October 11, 2006- Veterans, spouses, family and friends check in. Please sign in at the hospitality room and pick up your name tags. Tour on your own the numerous sites in and around Charleston .

Thursday, October 12, 2006- Boat Tour Schedules:
1st Tour: Leave Motel at 8:00 A. M. (Cost $14.00 per person)
2d Tour: Leaves Motel at 5:45 P. M. (Cost $55.00 per person)
(Travel will be by POV to departure points) There will be enough rental cars
therefore we can car pool.

NOTE: (Boat Tour Details - best to arrive at the departure point a half-hour prior to sailing) The first tour will be to Fort Sumter , where the Civil War began. The tour boat will depart at 0930 A. M., from Aquarium Warf, Liberty Square . The tour is approximately two hours an d fifteen minutes. One hour will be at Fort Sumter , and the remainder of the time is spent cruising around Charleston ’s historic harbor. Be sure to bring your camera. Parking is located at the city garage on the corner of Washington and Calhoun Streets. There is a parking fee of $5.00. (Do not park on the streets, as there is only a two hour time parking limit.)

The second tour will be a dinner cruise on the “Spirit of Carolina” (7 P. M. – 10 P. M.). The tour departs from Patriots Point Maritime Museum, in Mt. Pleasant, located across Cooper River from Charleston at 7 P. M. (free parking). There will be several entrees to choose from for dinner (not buffet style). The Flag Ship has two fully enclosed dining decks, each with its own live entertainment, dance floor and bar. You will be responsible for your own bar tab. The third deck is ideal for viewing starry skies or more casual events. Dress is “nice casual” – no high heeled shoes, please.

Friday, October 13, 2006- The day has been set aside for individual tours of the numerous sites in and around Charleston . The Hospitality Room will be open from 8 A. M. to 12 P. M. (We have set aside the time period 8-10 P. M. in the hospitality room to show your slides or 8 mm movies)

Saturday, October 14, 2006- 8 A. M. - Annual General Membership Meeting in the Hospitality Room. (After the general membership meeting there will be time to continue individual tours of Charleston or you just may want to visit in the hospitality room)

5 P. M. – 8 P. M. Annual Association Banquet (Buffet-chicken, beef, vegetables and desert) Dress is causal. The remainder of the evening will be in the Hospitality Room.

So please plan on attending. I hope to see everyone there. If you have any questions about the reunion, contact me or any association officer. If you are unable to attend and would like to leave a message to your fellow veterans, please mail or email them to me.

Sincerely;  

Richard A. Smith
Association President
604 24th Street
Butner , NC 27509-2134
(919) 575-0213
rsmith3024@nc.rr.com

Name: Glenn A. Nichols

Email: Stranger32@blomand.net

Phone: 931-761-4062

Date: 4/30/2006

Comments: I served with A Battery 2/17 at LZ ACTION, from May 68 till Feb.69. Would like to hear from anyone there at that time.

Name:James Freas

 

Email:jfreas@rochester.rr.com

 

Phone:

Date:13 Apr 06

Comments: Trying to locate a Capt McNeir or McNair. 7Div 17th Inf Reh "F" Company, Korea 1950. A friend was stationed with him. His name is Lyell Caleb. Anyone having any information please contact me. Thank you.

Name: Thomas R. Kurtz

Email: Kurtz_T@msn.com

Phone:217-732-4357

Date: April 12, 2006

Comments: Reminder to all veterans of the 17th Artillery, the 2006 annual reunion is only six months away. It's time for you to start planning on attending. The reunion will be held from 11-14 October 2006 in Charleston, South Carolina. I hope all are planning on attending and I will see you there.

Name: ed hitchner

Email: webmaster@17thartilleryregiment.org

Date:4/4/06

Comments: Guestbook back online - all entries prior to March 31, 2006 can be found on Old Entries Pages at www.17thartilleryregiment.org/Old_Entries/index.htm