Special Forces Association Chapter IX

WOUNDED WARRIOR CRUISE III Nov 27 to Dec 4 2011

2012-01-31T09:36:00.001-08:00

46th Special Forces Company Association Honored by Border Patrol Foundation. The 46th Special Forces Company (Airborne) Association was recently honored at the Border Patrol Foundation Recognition Dinner in Washington, D.C. Mark Little, Wounded in Action Chairman, and his wife attended the event on behalf of the men and women of the of the 46th. This annual event honors those who have contributed to the families of the fallen and injured while protecting America’s borders.

“It was an honor for the Border Patrol wounded to be recognized by their military counterparts who defend America around the world,” states Pat Wilder, National Director of the non-profit organization.

The Honorable Tom Ridge received the Founders Medal given for significant leadership in development of the U.S. Border Patrol over the past decade. USBP Deputy Chief Ron Vitiello, guest speaker, updated attendees on the success of the Border Patrol over the past year in improved apprehension of drugs, human trafficking, and technology development. Erica Aguilar, Border Patrol Family Services volunteer for the Foundation shared a family perspective of the importance of the Border Patrol Foundation in meeting the needs of the families of the fallen and importance of continuing peer support. Erica’s husband was killed in a violent border attack in 2008.

Additional awards included FOX News “Hannity” segments providing awareness of the cooperation of local law enforcement with the USBP in apprehension of dangerous alien criminals and terrorist access along the borders. Additional special guests included David Ham, Border Patrol Museum, Chief Doug Kruhm (USBP Ret), and Chief Luis Barker (USBP Ret), joined over 240 guests in saluting the our border warriors.

This year’s programs include expansion of the Border Patrol Family Services program and a national secondary education border security curriculum in a joint effort with the USA TODAY Charitable Foundation.

Picture at top: The Honorable Tom Ridge with Erica Aguilar, wife of slain agent Luis Aguilar at the Missing Man Table

From Pat Wilder National Director Border Patrol Foundation pat.wilder@borderpatrolfoundation.org

SEALS Rescue Hostages in Somalia

2012-01-25T09:15:00.001-08:00

MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) — U.S. Special Forces troops (actually it was SEAL Team 6) flew into Somalia on a nighttime helicopter raid early Wednesday, freed an American and a Danish hostage and killed nine of the kidnappers in a mission that President Barack Obama said he personally authorized.

The Danish Refugee Council confirmed that the two aid workers, American Jessica Buchanan and Dane Poul Hagen Thisted, were freed and "are on their way to be reunited with their families."

The raiders came in very quickly, catching the guards as they were sleeping after having chewed the narcotic leaf qat for much of the evening, a pirate who gave his name as Bile Hussein told The Associated Press by phone. Hussein said he was not present at the site but had spoken with other pirates who were, and that they told him nine pirates had been killed in the raid and three were missing.

A second pirate who gave his name as Ahmed Hashi said two helicopters attacked at about 2 a.m. about 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of the Somali town of Adado where the hostages were being held.

Buchanan, 32, and Thisted, 60, were working with a de-mining unit of the Danish Refugee Council when they were kidnapped in October.

The U.S. military's Africa Command, based in Stuttgart, Germany, confirmed that nine kidnappers were killed.

"Last night's mission, boldly conducted by some of our nation's most courageous, competent, and committed special operations forces, exemplifies United States Africa Command's mission to protect Americans and American interests in Africa," said Gen. Carter F. Ham, commander of U.S. Africa Command.

A Western official said the helicopters and the hostages flew to a U.S. military base called Camp Lemonnier in the Horn of Africa nation of Djibouti after the raid. Both officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the information had not been released publicly.

The timing of the raid may have been made more urgent by a medical condition. The Danish Refugee Council had been trying to work with Somali elders to win the hostages' freedom but had found little success.

"One of the hostages has a disease that was very serious and that had to be solved," Danish Foreign Minister Villy Soevndal told Denmark's TV2 channel. Soevndal did not provide any more details.

Soevndal congratulated the Americans for the raid and said he had been informed of the action.

Panetta visited Camp Lemonnier just over a month ago. A key U.S. ally in this region, Djibouti has the only U.S. base in sub-Saharan Africa. It hosts the military's Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa.

The Danish Refugee Council said both freed hostages are unharmed "and at a safe location." The group said in a separate statement that the two "are on their way to be reunited with their families."

Ann Mary Olsen, head of the Danish Refugee Council's international department, was the one who informed the family of Hagen Thisted of the successful military operation. "They (the family) were very happy and incredibly relieved that it is over," she said.

The two aid workers appear to have been kidnapped by criminals — sometimes referred to as pirates — and not by Somalia's al-Qaida-linked militant group al-Shabab. As large ships at sea have increased their defenses against pirate attacks, gangs have looked for other money making opportunities like land-based kidnappings.

The Danish Refugee Council had earlier enlisted traditional Somali elders and members of civil society to seek the release of the two hostages.

"We are really happy with the successful release of the innocents kidnapped by evildoers," said Mohamud Sahal, an elder in Galkayo town, by phone. "They were guests who were treated brutally. That was against Islam and our culture ... These men (pirates) have spoiled our good customs and culture, so Somalis should fight back."

Buchanan and Hagen Thisted were seized in October from the portion of Galkayo town under the control of a government-allied clan militia. The aid agency has said that Somalis held demonstrations demanding the pair's quick release.

Their Somali colleague was detained by police on suspicion of being involved in their kidnapping.

The two hostages were working in northern Somalia for the Danish Demining Group, whose experts have been clearing mines and unexploded ordnance in conflict zones in Africa and the Middle East.

Several hostages are still being held in Somalia, including a British tourist, two Spanish doctors seized from neighboring Kenya, and an American journalist kidnapped on Saturday.

New POW Exhibit

2012-01-23T11:34:00.000-08:00

Billy Waugh sends: If you are in the Fayetteville, North Carolina area on 10 Feb 2012, then at 1000 hours, at the Downtown Airborne and SF Museum, a new display will open, featuring POW's of the Vietnam War.

Featured will be items belonging to Nick Rowe, as well as Kenneth Roraback, Isaac Camacho, and others whom were held captive interned during the war of Vietnam.

I have heard from Dr. Nicole Suarez, one of the Curators of this huge Museum, that a model of the Punishment Hole, where POW escapee Isaac Camacho was tossed often for not cooperating with the "Commissioner" of NVA POW Camp Bravo-20 (In the jungles of Cambodia, near the SVN/Cambodian border just north of the Tay Ninh Province village of Katum, SVN).

The years of capture and POW internment of Isaac Camacho, Kenneth Roraback, George Smith, and Claude McClure were from 1963-1965. Isaac Camacho, who had been an 12B4S (SF Heavy Weapons Man of Detachment A-21, 5th SF TDY from Fort Bragg, NC), fought his tail off, but was butt-stroked then captured by the NVA who flattened the SF Camp in the III Corps area of Vietnam, near the Parrot's Beak area of Cambodia.

Isaac Camacho and his wife Grace will be at the opening of this POW display there in Fayetteville , NC . I am certain that Isaac and Grace C. would love to see you once again, and shake the hand of each of you.

I have included a sketch of the Punishment Hole, from the web-site which coincides with the book Isaac Camacho, an American Hero, that site being a 135-page depiction describing the various book actions http://www.isaaccamachoamericanhero.com/

Click on the photo below to see a larger, clearer image.

Another SF Poser

2012-01-17T11:04:00.000-08:00

The host of the show "Deadliest Warrior" -- a TV series that pits warriors of different eras against each other -- has resigned over lying about his purported Green Beret background. Robert Daly, a former imagery specialist assigned to an intelligence unit at the Presidio in Monterey, Calif., claimed online in May to "having been in the Special Forces."

In an Oct. 11 mea culpa to ProfessionalSoldiers.com, a website run by a former Special Forces master sergeant, Daly said he served as an intelligence analyst for the 12th Special Forces Group from 1991 to 1994, but was not a Green Beret.

"While I wore the [Green Beret] as part of my uniform, I utterly regret that I have misrepresented my role by creating the impression that I was a 'Green Beret,' " Daly wrote. "I have nothing but the utmost respect for the Green Berets and my fellow servicemen, and I respectfully apologize to the Special Forces community."
In the same posting Daly said he was resigning as studio head of Pipeworks Software, which produces "Deadliest Warrior," and would no longer host the program. Pipeworks did not respond to Military.com ' s request for comment.

The new host for "Deadliest Warriors" will be Richard "Mack" Machowicz, a former Navy SEAL and current host of "Future Weapons," according to an announcement on Spike TV's website. Spike carries both shows as original programming.
The same web page also continues to refer to Daly as a "former Green Beret."

"Robert Daly had no doubt to the validly of his "Green Beret" claims, neither did Professionalsoldiers.com," Hinton told Military.com. "There is no debate, no gray area. Being referred to as a ' Green Beret ' is analogous to being pregnant. You either are or you are not."
Daly is not the first veteran who served in a Special Forces unit to later promote himself as a Green Beret. In Philadelphia, city council candidate David Oh claimed in campaign literature to having been a Green Beret. Oh ended up making an online apology to the Special Forces community via the website Socnet.com.

Hinton has become the bane of phony Green Berets and Navy SEALs, exposing numerous fakes by getting their publicly available records through Freedom of Information Act requests and using his own network in the Special Forces.
In August Hinton testified before a Maryland judge prior to the sentencing of William G. "Bill" Hillar, who for years passed himself off as a former Special Forces colonel and expert in international sex trafficking.

Hillar taught classes on the subjects at the Monterey Institute of International Studies, and conducted paid lectures to law enforcement groups and agencies. Among his victims was the FBI.

Hillar was sentenced to 21 months in jail for wire fraud after admitting that an email he sent to the University of Oregon to apply for work included fraudulent information about his military background and experience. "All I do is expose them," Hinton said. "Ninety-nine percent of the time someone else ' finds ' them and then asks that poser questions." Once a skeptic asks "Is this guy for real?" he said, "That's the last words for a poser."

Payback Motivational Poster

2012-01-12T04:42:00.000-08:00

Good to use as your screen saver or background on your computer!!

Ballard of the Green Beret by Dolly Parton

2012-01-08T04:06:00.000-08:00

You have never heard it sung like this! Dolly puts a tribute and spin on this old classic of Barry Sadler's.

Happy 50th Anniversary Navy SEALS

2012-01-02T06:51:00.000-08:00

Navy SEALs trace their capability origins back to four formidable legacy units formed during World War II. They were the Amphibious Scouts and Raiders, formed in August 1942 for amphibious reconnaissance and commando operations in Europe and the South Pacific; Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs), assault demolitioneers formed in June 1943 and trained almost exclusively for beach obstacle-clearance operations at Normandy and Southern France; Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs), combat swimmers formed in December 1944 to conduct hydrographic reconnaissance and demolition of obstacles before amphibious landings throughout the Pacific; and the maritime operators of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS).

In early 1960, Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Arleigh A. Burke directed the Pentagon’s Operational Navy (OPNAV) staff to organize new or existing Navy units for smaller conflicts. He directed the OPNAV staff to study the Navy’s options with respect to unconventional warfare. Among other things the staff suggested “… that the Underwater Demolition Teams and USMC reconnaissance units are organizations capable of expansion into unconventional warfare.” On Sept. 13, an Unconventional Activities Working Group was formally established and reported to the deputy CNO (Plans and Policy). This group was directed to investigate “naval unconventional activity methods, techniques and concepts, which may be employed effectively against Sino-Soviet interests under conditions of cold war.”

After considerable study within the Navy staff, it was determined that expanding the UDT mission would likely hinder their traditional and now doctrinal responsibilities to the Amphibious Force. Thus, it was considered that new units should be established possessing the characteristics of the UDTs, but incorporating new capabilities like those developed and practiced during the Korean War. Because the UDTs were doctrinally tied to Amphibious Force doctrine, they had been consistently denied opportunities to utilize U.S. Army and Marine Corps training schools, or given funding or authorizations to purchase the kinds of equipment needed for expanded naval missions originating from the sea, air, or land. It was intended, therefore, that these new SEAL units would not be doctrinally hindered and would be given freedom to establish a broader and more flexible mission.

Finally, and almost routinely, in a letter dated Dec. 11, 1961, the CNO officially authorized establishment of SEAL Teams in the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets with an effective date of Jan. 1, 1962. SEAL Team ONE was officially established under the command of Navy Lt. David Del Giudice, and SEAL Team TWO under the command of Navy Lt. John Callahan. Organization of these new units represented the culmination of almost four years of investigation into a special naval warfare capability within the Navy.

Read the very interesting, entire article on Navy SEALS here.

RIP - CSM (ret) Kenneth E. McMullin

2011-12-31T06:49:00.000-08:00

CSM (ret) Kenneth E. McMullin crossed over on Christmas this year. He will be missed.

Kenny McMullin was born in 1940 in California. He enlisted in the California Army National Guard on February 21, 1960, and went on active duty in the U.S. Army as a Combat Engineer on December 31, 1962, serving until December 14, 1965. SP5 McMullin served in the U.S. Army Reserve from December 15, 1965, until returning to active duty on January 31, 1966. His next assignment was as a Demolition Specialist with Company E, 7th Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, from April to December 1966, followed by service as a Demolition Sergeant with Company B, 5th Special Forces Group in South Vietnam from December 1966 to October 1967.

Sgt McMullin served as an Operations Sergeant with the 5th Special Forces Group in South Vietnam from October 1967 to September 1969, and then as an Intelligence Sergeant with the 46th Special Forces Company in Thailand from September 1968 to October 1969. His next assignment was as an Operations and Intelligence Sergeant with the 6th Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg from October 1969 to January 1970, followed by service with Company C, U.S. Army Special Forces Training Group at Fort Bragg from January 1970 to March 1971.

SSG McMullin served on Action Element #2 with the Blueboy Assault Group during the Son Tay Raid, a clandestine mission to rescue American Prisoners of War in North Vietnam on November 21, 1970.

He served as a Reconnaissance Team Leader and Airborne Controller with the U.S. Army Vietnam Training Advisory Group in South Vietnam from March 1971 to February 1972, and then served as an Intelligence NCO and Training NCO with the 46th Special Forces Company and the U.S.Army Special Forces Training Group in Thailand from February 1972 to March 1973. His next assignment was as the Senior Special Forces Instructor with the Special Forces Detachment at the U.S. Army Institute for Military Assistance at Fort Bragg from April 1973 to March 1975, followed by service as Operations Sergeant and then Assistant Chief Operations NCO with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg from March 1975 to November 1976.

MSG McMullin served as an Operations Sergeant with Company A, 3rd Battalion of the 5th Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg from December 1976 to August 1982, and then as Operations and Training NCO with Headquarters Joint Special Operations Command at Fort Bragg from August 1982 to September 1984.

His next assignment was as Detachment Sergeant Major and then Company Sergeant Major with Company A, 3rd Battalion of the 7th Special Forces Group at Fort Davis, Panama, from September 1984 to December 1989, followed by service as Company Sergeant Major with Company B, 1st Battalion of the 7th Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg from
January 1990 to January 1991. His final assignment was as Battalion Command Sergeant Major with 2nd Battalion of the 3rd Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg from January 1991 until his retirement from the Army on November 1, 1992.

Kenny McMullin died on December 25, 2011.

In tribute to Kenny Mac, Jake Jakovenko wrote this about his friend:

IN MEMORY OF KENNY MAC:

WE HAVE CLINCHED AND CLOSED
WITH NAKED DEATH
WE HAVE LEARNED
TO DEFY AND DEFEND
SHOULDER TO SHOULDER
WE FOUGHT IT OUT
YET DEATH MOST WIN IN THE END

Kenny And I Served Together In 6th Special Forces Group and both Volunteered For Operation, Code Word, IVORY COAST, That Became Code Word KINGPIN Better Known as the SON TAY RAID. He Was On BLUEBOY ELEMENT, I on GREENLEAF. The last time Kenny and I tipped one together was at one of the Reunions, I believe the one before our 40th Anniversary in 2010 at Destin, Florida. He never made our 40th Anniversary of the Raid. We were also together in 1977 as part of BLUELIGHT at Mott Lake, North Carolina.

I'm Going To Miss You Kenny Mac! We Were More Than Soldiers, We Were Brothers In Arms. May The Good Lord Take Care Of You And Make It Easy On Your Loved Once. Until That Time, When The Bugle Blows And The Rest Of Us Will Join You.

Jake Jakovenko
GREENLEAF

Kenny McMullin's Silver Star Citation, awarded from his actions on the Son Tay Raid, reads:

For gallantry in action on 21 November 1970 as a member of an all-volunteer joint U.S. Army and Air Force raiding force in the Joint Chiefs of Staff-directed heliborne assault mission to rescue United States military personnel held as prisoners of war at Son Tay prison in North Vietnam. This valiant effort was motivated by deep compassion for his imprisoned fellow men-at-arms, and by a strong sense of military duty and national pride. After debarking from the assault helicopter, Sergeant McMullin moved to an exposed position and delivered automatic rifle fire on a fortified enemy position, eliminating an immediate threat that could hinder the search and rescue operation. He then fearlessly moved to the north corner of the prisoner interrogation building the better to protect the search team of his element. He cleared the area of the remaining enemy personnel permitting the safe completion of the search of all buildings and the withdrawal of the raiding force to the extraction point. Sergeant McMullin's conscious disregard for his personal safety, extraordinary heroism against an armed hostile force, and extreme devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself and the United States Army.

Soldier's Christmas

2011-12-24T13:33:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas
from
Special Forces Association Chapter IX

Chaplains Corner - December 2011

2011-12-23T13:53:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a time to relive old memories and a time to create new memories. You have all been blessed with a Mom and a Dad, who loved you in such beautiful ways that you are filled with many wonderful memories of them. Then there are the brothers and sisters who showed their love for you as you grew up together. And there is you creating memories from interacting with them. Events like your first crush on your unknowing sweetheart, your own driver's license and your first date, and your first kiss, courting your future spouse, your years together raising a family, and then becoming grandparents - all beautiful memories.

Now, each day is filled with opportunities to create situations that will give you wonderful memories to remember in the years ahead when all you can do is remember your treasured memories. Most of all, there is the life-changing time when you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord, and enjoyed all of the wonderful things connected to your hometown church as you grew in faith walking in the footsteps of Jesus.

You remember the times when Jesus helped you get through a hard times. You remember how Jesus Christ came to free you from your sins and reconcile you to God, you can face each day knowing that God loved you, loves you, and will always love you. Christmas is the time to remember the birth of Jesus as a visible sign of God's forgiving love for you. It is a time to remember God's promise of eternal life with God and your Christian family and friends in heaven. Maybe it is time to renew your Christian faith or come to faith and enjoy God's forgiving love. May God shower you with His blessings throughout 2012, and beyond.

Chaplain John Szilvasy LTC, SF (ret)

Chapter Meeting Notes - Christmas Party 17 Dec 2011

2011-12-19T14:07:00.000-08:00

The SFA Chapter IX Annual Christmas Party was held at Butterfield Trails Golf Course again this year. The party included the installation of new officers: From L to R – Steve Frazoni, Vice-Pres; Pete Peral, President; Bill Snider, Secretary; Joe Ibarra, Treasurer; John Szilvasy –Chaplain.

The Chapter Men and Women entertained each with other with battling Karoke.

Upcoming Events:

Next Chapter Meeting: Saturday 21 January at VFW Post 812

SFA 2012 Convention: 11-17 June Fort Bragg , NC – 60th Anniversary (Chapter 1-18)

SFA 2013 - San Antonio , TX (Chapter 15) 2014 - Columbia , South Carolina (Chapter 34)

San Antonio Silver Wings Ball: We have long supported this event and hopes are to have another good showing this year. Ike announced that it is $40 per person and we have to pay by 31 January to be eligible for the raffle. Event was Blazers and Berets or Tuxedo or Dress Blues or Business Dress.

Novel by SGM (ret) Billy Bowles

2011-12-18T16:08:00.000-08:00

SGM (ret) Billy Bowles, of SFA Chapter 43 recently completed and had published by Iuniverse Publishing Co. a novel titled "COVERT LOVES”. It is a 660 page novel, described by Bowles as a military theme coupled with a few love affairs mixed in. The novel contains some sexual episodes and typical military profanity. It is written in the style of James Jones’ “From here to Eternity.”

It tells the story of a young southern boy joining the army in 1948 and is assigned to Germany for occupation duty. He does two tours there, and then reenlists for the airborne then goes into Special Forces (the old 77th SFG).

The story takes him on Operation WHITESTAR, then into Vietnam and finally into Korea. In a disagreement with the army over new assignment orders he retires from the army at Fort Bragg.

SGM Bowles is asking for help in publicizing the book by making people aware of it. He reports that several SFA members have bought and read the book and had nothing but praise for it. The book can be purchased on line at www.amazon.com by clicking on any amazon link on this page. You can then identify the novel by title, "Covert Loves" in the search block and they will bill and send it to you in about three or four days. You can also order the book from this site here.

Dutch General Peter van Uhm

2011-12-14T05:29:00.000-08:00

Listen to this Dutch General tell his story. I am glad we have an ally like him, to explains that sometimes the only thing between good and evil is a good man with a gun.

"Peace and Stability do not come free of charge"

Vladimir Arts at Fort Bliss PX 7-18 Dec 2011

2011-12-11T17:36:00.000-08:00

Vladimir Arts USA will be at the Fort Bliss PX 7-18 December, 2011, with art work like this picture and more.

Vladimir Arts U.S.A, INC.
2504 Sprinkle Road Kalamazoo MI 49001
(269) 383-0032 | 1-800-678-8523

MSG Gordon and SFC Shughart - Somalia

2011-12-05T09:56:00.000-08:00

MSG Gary Gordon and SFC Randy Shughart were deployed to Mogadishu, Somalia with other SFOD-D (Delta Force) members in the summer of 1993. On 3 October 1993 a joint assault mission to capture key advisers to Warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid was launched. This operation was later detailed in the book and movie of the same name, titled “Black Hawk Down”.

During the assault, Super Six One, one of the Army's Black Hawk helicopters providing insertion and air support to the assault team, was shot down and crashed in the city. A Combat Search and Rescue team was dispatched to the first crash site to secure it and a short time later Super Six Four was shot down as well. Ranger forces on the ground were not able to assist the downed helicopter crew of the second crash site as they were already engaged in heavy combat with Aidid's militia and making their way to the first crash site.

Gordon and his Delta Force sniper teammates SFC Randall Shughart and SFC Brad Hallings, who were providing sniper cover from the air, wanted to be dropped at the site of a MH-60 Blackhawk (call sign Super 64) crash to protect the four critically wounded air crew, despite the fact that a very large number of hostile Somalis were converging on the area.

Mission commanders denied Gordon's request, because the situation was too dangerous, in fact was presumed a one way mission. Gordon was adamant that there was no way Super 64’s crew could survive on their own, and repeated his request until he received permission.

Gordon and Shughart inserted on the ground, with Hallings providing aerial fire support, and armed with only their long guns and pistols, they fought their way to the downed MH-60. More and more Somalis were arriving who mounted several attacks to capture or kill the Americans. Gordon and Shughart established a defensive position around the downed helicopter and with their ammunition nearly depleted and resorting to pistols, Gordon and Shughart were eventually killed by the Somalis. The only man to make it out alive was one of Super 64’s pilot’s, Chief Warrant Officer Michael Durant, who was captured by the Somalis. Gordon and Shugart knowingly risked, and ultimately gave their lives for a chance for the air crew to survive. Bot hwere awarded the Medal of Honor for their actions and sacrifice.

MSG GARY I. GORDON

Rank and organization: Master Sergeant, U.S. Army.
Place and date: 3 October 1993, Mogadishu, Somalia.
Born: Lincoln, Maine.

Citation: Master Sergeant Gordon, United States Army, distinguished himself by actions above and beyond the call of duty on 3 October 1993, while serving as Sniper Team Leader, United States Army Special Operations Command with Task Force Ranger in Mogadishu, Somalia. Master Sergeant Gordon's sniper team provided precision fires from the lead helicopter during an assault and at two helicopter crash sites, while subjected to intense automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenade fires. When Master Sergeant Gordon learned that ground forces were not immediately available to secure the second crash site, he and another sniper unhesitatingly volunteered to be inserted to protect the four critically wounded personnel, despite being well aware of the growing number of enemy personnel closing in on the site. After his third request to be inserted, Master Sergeant Gordon received permission to perform his volunteer mission. When debris and enemy ground fires at the site caused them to abort the first attempt, Master Sergeant Gordon was inserted one hundred meters south of the crash site. Equipped with only his sniper rifle and a pistol, Master Sergeant Gordon and his fellow sniper, while under intense small arms fire from the enemy, fought their way through a dense maze of shanties and shacks to reach the critically injured crew members. Master Sergeant Gordon immediately pulled the pilot and the other crew members from the aircraft, establishing a perimeter which placed him and his fellow sniper in the most vulnerable position. Master Sergeant Gordon used his long range rifle and side arm to kill an undetermined number of attackers until he depleted his ammunition. Master Sergeant Gordon then went back to the wreckage, recovering some of the crew's weapons and ammunition. Despite the fact that he was critically low on ammunition, he provided some of it to the dazed pilot and then radioed for help. Master Sergeant Gordon continued to travel the perimeter, protecting the downed crew. After his team member was fatally wounded and his own rifle ammunition exhausted, Master Sergeant Gordon returned to the wreckage, recovering a rifle with the last five rounds of ammunition and gave it to the pilot with the words, "good luck." Then, armed only with his pistol, Master Sergeant Gordon continued to fight until he was fatally wounded. His actions saved the pilot's life. Master Sergeant Gordon's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest standards of military service and reflect great credit upon him, his unit and the United States Army.

SFC RANDALL D. SHUGHART

Rank and organization: Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army.
Place and date: 3 October 1993, Mogadishu, Somalia.
Born: Newville, Pennsylvania.

Citation: Sergeant First Class Shughart, United States Army, distinguished himself by actions above and beyond the call of duty on 3 October 1993, while serving as a Sniper Team Member, United States Army Special Operations Command with Task Force Ranger in Mogadishu, Somalia. Sergeant First Class Shughart provided precision sniper fires from the lead helicopter during an assault on a building and at two helicopter crash sites, while subjected to intense automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenade fires. While providing critical suppressive fires at the second crash site, Sergeant First Class Shughart and his team leader learned that ground forces were not immediately available to secure the site. Sergeant First Class Shughart and his team leader unhesitatingly volunteered to be inserted to protect the four critically wounded personnel, despite being well aware of the growing number of enemy personnel closing in on the site. After their third request to be inserted, Sergeant First Class Shughart and his team leader received permission to perform this volunteer mission. When debris and enemy ground fires at the site caused them to abort the first attempt, Sergeant First Class Shughart and his team leader were inserted one hundred meters south of the crash site. Equipped with only his sniper rifle and a pistol, Sergeant First Class Shughart and his team leader, while under intense small arms fire from the enemy, fought their way through a dense maze of shanties and shacks to reach the critically injured crew members. Sergeant First Class Shughart pulled the pilot and the other crew members from the aircraft, establishing a perimeter which placed him and his fellow sniper in the most vulnerable position. Sergeant First Class Shughart used his long range rifle and side arm to kill an undetermined number of attackers while traveling the perimeter, protecting the downed crew. Sergeant First Class Shughart continued his protective fire until he depleted his ammunition and was fatally wounded. His actions saved the pilot's life. Sergeant First Class Shughart's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest standards of military service and reflect great credit upon him, his unit and the United States Army.

Chaplain's Corner - November 2011

2011-11-29T08:03:00.000-08:00

“Jesus is the reason for the season of Christmas." God came to us in the form of his Son to be the Savior of the World for all time for those who accept him as God's Son, come to set us free from the control that sin has over us.” When Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the Garden of Eden by eating the forbidden fruit of the tree of truth and knowledge - they were expelled from the Garden and placed under the curse of being eternally separated from God. Jesus Christ (the promised Messiah) who would restore the broken relationship with God and set us free to freely accept Jesus, the promised Messiah, God's son, the Savior and Lord of people for all times and all places.

It is very difficult to see the words displayed in the public arena. It doesn't sell and is an intrusion into the disobedient freedom we live with in this life. So we tune Jesus out of the Season, and look to Santa Claus and the reindeers, and the bag of presents to warm the hearts of the recipients, BUT this is totally void of pointing to the real meaning of Christmas, which is: God sent His Son, Jesus the promised Messiah (Christ to restore the broken relationship we have with God. For those of you who have accepted Jesus as your personal Savior and Lord, it is a lot easier for you to hold on to Jesus and refuse to be distracted and hold on to the Biblical Truth Jesus came to sacrifice himself on the Cross in order to free us from our sins, become obedient followers of Jesus, walking in his footsteps faithfully until we are called to our eternal home in heaven.

I thank God for all of you who live Christian lives and are free from sin controlling their lives and your actions and speech. May God bless you with the true meaning of Christmas and to enjoy your faith during this Christmas season.

Chaplain John Szilvasy, LTC Retired

Son Tay Raid Anniversary

2011-11-29T04:33:00.000-08:00

We were remiss in not recognizing the anniversary of the famous Son Tay Raid. The night between the 20-21 November is the forty-first anniversary of the Son Tay Raid, which of course occurred in 1970. Thanks to Colonel Oden for reminding us.

For those that don’t recall the “Raid”, it was a US attempt in 1970 to rescue American POWs from a North Vietnamese Prison Camp just west of Hanoi. It was a phenomenal operation, prepped for in great secrecy and executed with surgical precision. Unfortunately, the POWs had been moved and the “cupboard was bare”—so the raiders took down an enemy training facility instead--shwacking a boatload of “foreign military advisors” and NVA in the process. Because of the raid, the North Vietnamese consolidated all the POWs (who, up until the raid were scattered all over North and South Vietnam , Laos and Cambodia ) which actually improved the POWs lives.

Although the Raid force was commanded by Brigadier General Leroy Mannor, USAF, the Commander on the ground was COL Arthur “Bull” Simons, with LTC Elliot “Bud” Sydnor and CPT Dick Meadows as deputies—all seasoned SF officers with distinguished combat records. But here’s some tid-bits they neglect to mention. Photo of Raiders in infil aircraft at left.

No other special operation has had the effect that this one has had on American Special Operations. The plan was the “blueprint” for DESERT ONE (the failed attempt to rescue the American hostages in Iran on 24 April 1980) and the organizational concept was morphed into what is now SFOD-DELTA.

This was a Special Forces mission; but every raider was also a dual qualified RANGER—in fact many had been or would become RANGER Instructors (RIs)—I personally had three, Meadows being the highlight. This was the first truly JOINT Operation: Army SF, AF Spec Opns, and (a full blown Navy & Marine air strike as a diversion over Hanoi ). In fact, the only guy rescued was one of the pilots from the diversion who got shot down and the raiders picked him up on EXFIL.

This was the first military use of “Red Dot”sights and the common weapon was the CAR-15.

Three of the DSC Awardees I was privileged to serve with. MAJ Meadows was one of my RIs in FLA RANGER Camp. COL Sydnor was my tactical officer at the Infantry Officer Advanced Course; he gave a brief on the raid on 15 July 1980 — I missed it because my oldest son, Gary, was being born during the brief. SSG Tom Powell was later my company commander in C/3/5SFGA (when I commanded ODA 595).

SFC John Jakovenko, SFC Jack G. Joplin, SSG Kenneth E. McMullen, SSG David Nickerson & SSG Paul F. Poole were all SGMs in 5th SFGA while I was there (1980-5). Joplin being my BN CSM in 3/5 SFGA. MSG Calen C. Kittleson was an ALAMO Scout and a veteran of the CABANATUAN Raid of WWII. I met him a couple of times and never knew
about either experience until I saw him on the History channel talking about both.

MSG Joseph W. Lupyak is retired from the Army but is still a DA Civilian helping in the SF “Q” Course and a Distinguished Member of the Special Forces Regiment. Picture of Raiders being awarded medals at right.

Final bit of trivia. The original Son Tay Raider‘s Patch is not the one (commonly displayed in some publications). The Original had white mushrooms in the dark with the motto of “KITDFOHS”: Kept in the Dark-Fed Only Horse Shit! (see patch at top of post).

De Oppresso Liber!

Ray L. Oden
Lieutenant Colonel, United States Special Forces, Retired

7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) Officially Calls Northwest Florida Home

2011-11-27T05:04:00.000-08:00

By Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Johnson, EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (USASOC News Service, Nov. 18, 2011) - After a six year journey, the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) can call Eglin Air Force Base its new home.

On Friday, Oct. 14, the Group held a ribbon cutting ceremony followed by an open house commemorating the completion of its move from Fort Bragg , N.C. as mandated by Congress in the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Act.
Senior military leaders and members of the community surrounding Eglin AFB attended the ribbon cutting ceremony which kicked off with a High Altitude Low Opening demonstration by two 7th Group Green Berets jumping combat equipment.
The United States Army Special Operations Command parachute demonstration team, the Black Daggers, then followed with an aerial display as they jumped in the POW MIA flag.

"Welcome home. We've been waiting for you," Florida Senator Don Gaetz, who was a guest speaker at the ceremony, said. "We know that the 7th can project the world's most lethal fighting force behind enemy lines anywhere in the world to free the oppressed. Because that is what you do, what we can do is be free and confident and safe and grateful."
The ceremony also included a presentation of the Military Community Covenant, a document signed by military and community leaders representing the commitment to support one another.

"Here in Northwest Florida you can be at home." Gaetz said. "You're on friendly ground. You can know that your children will be our children. We'll hold them close when you're away."

Before the BRAC move to Florida , the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) had called Fort Bragg home for more than 50 years. And unlike most military units, Green Berets will stay in their Special Forces Group most of their military career.
"In retrospect six years ago when congress mandated our move to Eglin it was received with a bit of angst and nervous anxiety," Col. Antonio M. Fletcher, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) commander said. "However, your smiling faces, unconditional community support, the Emerald Coast weather, world class facilities and unprecedented training opportunities quickly erased those fears."

The ribbon cutting ceremony concluded with the Crestview and Niceville High School bands playing the Army Song and the “Ballad of the Green Beret.” Then the gates to the cantonment site were opened and the general public was invited to an Open House.

Locals got to see military working dog, rappelling, and marksmanship demonstrations. Static displays from military vehicles and weapons to combat diver equipment and unmanned aerial vehicles were on hand for the spectators, as well. They also got a chance to eat lunch in the new dining facility and tour the new compound.

The ribbon cutting ceremony and open house not only was a celebration of the completion of the BRAC move, but a thank you to the community for supporting the group through the transition. As if moving more than 1,800 Soldiers, 930 Families, 3,000 dependants and more than 1,300 major pieces of equipment wasn't challenging enough, the group was simultaneously engaging in operations on foreign soil while making the move to Eglin Air Force Base.

"I take great pride in the fact that the 7th Special Forces Group was the only major BRAC unit to make the move while conducting overseas contingency operations in Afghanistan , Iraq and Latin America ," Fletcher said. "This success is directly attributable to our superb Soldiers and the incredible joint civilian and community relationship we enjoy."

On Sept.15, 2005 President George W. Bush approved the BRAC Commission’s recommendations to realign and reorganize the Department of Defense base structure. The Secretary of Defense was required to begin implementing the recommendations by Sept.15, 2007 and to complete them no later than Sep. 15, 2011.

The BRAC Commission’s final recommendation to the President concerning 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) stated, “Specifically, the Commission views that the relocation of the 7th Special Forces Group to Eglin AFB, Fla. , provides this unit an opportunity to achieve outstanding joint training through its collocation with the Air Force Special Operations Command.”
A ground breaking ceremony for the new compound was held at the Air Armament Museum on Eglin AFB March 26, 2009. Within two years, a wooded area once frequented by local hunters, was developed into the 500 acre, $380 million cantonment site it.

To compare the size of the new compound to what was at Fort Bragg, N.C., all of the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), U.S. Army Special Forces Command (Airborne) and U.S. Special Operations Command facilities combined could fit comfortably into the new 7th Group cantonment site here.

In August 2010, an advanced party of approximately 30 Soldiers and their Families moved from Fort Bragg to Duke Field on Eglin Air Force Base to facilitate the move and ensure support systems for our Families were in place when they arrived.
In the spring of 2011, the Group began packing equipment and vehicles and shipping them by rail and truck to the new location. In May 2011, the bulk of the 7th Group Soldiers and their Families began their move to Eglin. Roughly 150 Soldiers per week moved throughout the summer to the gulf coast, with the last Families arriving in September.

All BRAC requirements were met on or before schedule with the majority of the buildings being completed five months in advance. 7th Group signed for the final building on Sept. 14, 2011 completing the BRAC requirements set forth in 2005. Though the BRAC requirements have been met, construction will continue on the compound over the next few years.

Chapter Meeting Notes - 19 Nov 2011

2011-11-25T13:09:00.000-08:00

Wreaths Across America. POC is Debbie Torres, Civil Air Patrol, wife of Chapter member Rolando Torres. Wreaths will arrive Saturday 10 Dec 2011 for subsequent placement. The Chapter is sponsoring all SF interned at FT Bliss National Cemetery.

Special Forces Pre-Mision Training Cell. Gordon Waugh (SGM, ret) is in charge of organizing a large exercise to take place Jan-Feb 2012, based in Dell City and they are looking for civilian role players. Contact the Chapter for more information.

Christmas Party: Chair Steve Franzoni, committee Chris Lewis and Samuel Morgan. Party is set for 17 December at Butterfield Trails. Chapter will pay for all members who attend, all guests are $30.

16th Annual Ralph Dominguez/Jerry Montoya Food Drive: Committee Chair Jerry Compos has to take a leave of absence, so President Pete is the POC. Committee is Pablo, Rod, Vern, Chuy, Aaron, Leo, Fred, Bill and Brian. We again will pay for another pizza party for each winning class from the schools that participate. Chapter voted to allow $1500 seed money for the project. Boxing party will be at Pete’s warehouse on Biggs Field Sunday, 18 December at 1300 hrs. Please plan to attend and clean out your pantry or solicit donations from your sources.

Installation of Chapter Officers: Officers elected will be installed for the next 2 years at the Annual Christmas Party.

Viet Nam Veterans Chapter: Tickets were sold for a spaghetti lunch fund raiser and several SFA 9 members attended on Saturday 5 November at the 82nd.

Special Olympics: Chapter 9 hosted a paint ball tournament on October 14th for the Special Olympics Region 19 in El Paso TX. Chapter members provided the food and cooking for the event and with the help of the Benavidez-Patterson 82nd Airborne chapter who loaned us their concession trailer we were able to raise over $1,500.00 for the region.

Border Patrol Special Operations Expo: It will be held at the Biggs Field Centennial 25-26 April – SOG MWR is host. Chapter voted to provide manpower and make it a fundraiser. Committee is Pete, Joe Lopez, Ike, Rolando, Chuck, Aaron and Steve.

San Antonio Silver Wings Ball: We have long supported this event and hopes are to have another good showing this year. Ike announced that it is $40 per person and we have to pay by 31 January to be eligible for the raffle. Event is Blazers and Berets or Tuxedo or Dress Blues or Business Dress.

SFA National Convention is the 60th Anniversary of SF.

USASMA Class 62 has 23 SF students this year. CSM Baer & Breck Zaiser from USASOC will be visiting the USASMA SF Students in early December.

Caroline Kennedy Letter to the Green Berets

2011-11-24T16:05:00.000-08:00

A letter from Caroline Kennedy, daughter of former President John F. Kennedy, to the Commanding General, BG Edward M. Reeder Jr., in response to 50th Anniversary of the Green Beret ceremony at Arlington and wreath laying at JFK's grave.

Her letter reflects her deep sincerity toward the Regiment.

None More Beautiful

2011-11-23T08:30:00.000-08:00

Most of the readers of this site, other Special Forces sites and history will recognize the name, COL Martha Raye, known as "Colonel Maggie". If not, go to this site to be educated. A finer women never lived....a more beautiful woman, both inside and out, may not have existed either,.....

World War II Special Operations Books

2011-11-22T12:37:00.000-08:00

Becoming interested in the stories from the different organizations listed in the Special Forces Roll of Honour Website, previously posted, we found various books available on some of these lesser known predecessors of modern day Special Forces units:

Amazing Website: Special Forces Roll of Honour

2011-11-20T05:01:00.000-08:00

If you want to see an excellent site check out the Special Forces Roll of Honour

The author, John Robertson, of Ayr, Scotland puts it:

This site is dedicated to the memory of Special Forces from World War II to the present who served and died in places and under circumstances most of us can only imagine in our worst nightmares.

My research has taken nearly 40 years and is sadly still ongoing as wars and conflicts show no sign of abating worldwide.

I sincerely hope that no information, errors or omissions cause any offence to families or Associations.

I hope this site serves as an everlasting memorial to past, present and future Special Forces.

Please feel free to contact me re errors or additional material.

I would like to profoundly thank my son Craig who has created this site for me.

In memory of my late father-in-law Adam Anderson, PPA 1944-45.

SFA Chapter IX note: PPA is Popski's Private Army.

1LT Robert "Bob" L. Howard, Vietnam

2011-11-18T08:23:00.000-08:00

Very few people, if any, are as well known in the Special Forces community as Bob Howard. COL Howard enlisted in the Army at Montgomery, Alabama and retired as Colonel. In between, he served as a staff sergeant of the highly-classified Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG) where he was recommended for the Medal of Honor on three separate occasions for three individual actions during 1967–1968. The first two nominations were downgraded to a Silver Star and the Distinguished Service Cross due to the covert nature of the operations in which Howard participated.

Promoted to Sergeant First Class and serving in the same organization, Howard risked his life during a rescue mission in Cambodia on December 30, 1968, while as 2IC platoon-sized Reaction Element that was searching for missing American soldier Robert Scherdin. This si the action that Howard was finally awarded the Medal of Honor.

Howard was wounded 14 times during one 54-month period during the Vietnam War. He went on to earn two Masters degrees during his career which spanned almost 50 years. Retiring as a full Colonel in 1992 Howard was one of the most highly decorated soldiers since World War II. After retiring, COL Howard dedicated much if his life to helping active duty soldiers and veterans.

COL Howard died of cancer at a hospice on December 23, 2009. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. Howard was survived by four children and four grandchildren.

Medal Of Honor Citation

Rank and organization: First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces.

Place and date: Republic of Vietnam, 30 December 1968. Entered service at: Montgomery, Ala.

Born: 11 July 1939, Opelika, Ala.

Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. 1st Lt. Howard (then Sfc .), distinguished himself while serving as platoon sergeant of an American-Vietnamese platoon which was on a mission to rescue a missing American soldier in enemy controlled territory in the Republic of Vietnam. The platoon had left its helicopter landing zone and was moving out on its mission when it was attacked by an estimated 2-company force. During the initial engagement, 1st Lt. Howard was wounded and his weapon destroyed by a grenade explosion. 1st Lt. Howard saw his platoon leader had been wounded seriously and was exposed to fire. Although unable to walk, and weaponless, 1st Lt. Howard unhesitatingly crawled through a hail of fire to retrieve his wounded leader. As 1st Lt. Howard was administering first aid and removing the officer's equipment, an enemy bullet struck 1 of the ammunition pouches on the lieutenant's belt, detonating several magazines of ammunition. 1st Lt. Howard momentarily sought cover and then realizing that he must rejoin the platoon, which had been disorganized by the enemy attack, he again began dragging the seriously wounded officer toward the platoon area. Through his outstanding example of indomitable courage and bravery, 1st Lt. Howard was able to rally the platoon into an organized defense force. With complete disregard for his safety, 1st Lt. Howard crawled from position to position, administering first aid to the wounded, giving encouragement to the defenders and directing their fire on the encircling enemy. For 3 1/2 hours 1st Lt. Howard's small force and supporting aircraft successfully repulsed enemy attacks and finally were in sufficient control to permit the landing of rescue helicopters. 1st Lt. Howard personally supervised the loading of his men and did not leave the bullet-swept landing zone until all were aboard safely. 1st Lt. Howard's gallantry in action, his complete devotion to the welfare of his men at the risk of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Chapter Meeting Notes - 15 October 2011

2011-11-14T10:24:00.000-08:00

Cub Scout Pack 58: The Chapter supports Cub Scout Pack 58 with their Charter Fees and donated $500 towards the cost of a Pinewood Derby track.

The 6th Annual John McLaughlin Memorial Golf Tournament, at the Butterfield Trails Golf Course, was a huge success with over $12,000 collected.

The Chapter will donate $200 per month through CY 2011 for the Rest and Relaxation (R&R) Center Fort Bliss for the arts and crafts program.

Wreaths Across America: Debbie Torres will chair the project again with the Civil Air Patrol. It will be held on Saturday 10 December at the FT Bliss cemetery. The Chapter will sponsor SF and their spouses interned in Fort Bliss National Cemetery again.

Christmas Party: Chair Steve Franzoni, committee Chris Lewis and Samuel Morgan. Party is set for 17 December at Butterfield Trails.

USASMA Class 62 has 23 SF students this year. Jeff Davis sent their email addresses to the Secretary and they are getting the newsletter and Chapter 9 emails.

16th Annual Ralph Dominguez/Jerry Montoya Food Drive: Committee Chairman Jerry Compos volunteered to chair it again. Committee is Pablo, Rod, Vern, Chuy, Aaron, Leo and Fred. Jerry will hold a meeting at 1200 before the November meeting and report to the Chapter on progress. We again will pay for another pizza party for each winning class from the schools that participate. Chapter voted to allow $1500 seed money for the project.

Installation of Officers: Officers elected will be installed for the next 2 years at the Annual Christmas Party.

No Dispect Allowed At The Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier

2011-11-10T08:33:00.000-08:00

Watch how this Soldier from the 6th Infantry guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier handles some people laughing at the site of the Tomb. He is pretty imposing as he turns and addresses the laughter with a command voice,..... "It is requested that everyone maintains a level of silence and respect."

JFK Wreath Laying Ceremony

2011-11-07T11:58:00.000-08:00

U.S. Army Special Forces Command (Airborne) will hold its commemorative President John F. Kennedy Wreath Laying Ceremony, Thursday, Nov. 17, at 10:10 a.m. at the JFK grave site at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va. More than 50 years ago President John F. Kennedy met with Brig. Gen. William P. Yarborough and his Special Forces at Fort Bragg, N.C., on 12 Oct. 1961.

This important visit and the subsequent lasting partnership between JFK and the Special Forces would ensure that these men would forever wear the Green Beret and would be the leading edge and main effort of his campaign to counter insurgency around the globe.

The Wreath Laying Ceremony, near the anniversary of President Kennedy's burial was a regiment tradition for many years. The Fort Bragg based command will renew this tradition as a fitting tribute to both the fallen President and the men he commissioned to be the "Tip of the Spear" as the world’s premier unconventional warfare warriors.

Following the ceremony Regimental Commander Brig Gen. Edward M. Reeder Jr., and Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, Secretary Michael G. Vickers, will speak at a luncheon honoring the legacy of the Green Berets.

Old Airborne Recruiting Film

2011-11-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

Is this familiar to anyone?

V-42 Video Pays Homage to Special Forces Lineage

2011-10-31T06:11:00.000-07:00

If you have earned the Green Beret, you recognize the V-42 Commando Knife, made famous by the 1st Special Service Force from World War II, is the knife centered in the SF Crest.

Chaplain's Corner - October 2011

2011-10-25T08:26:00.000-07:00

Hopefully, this article will wake up those who have been sitting on the sidelines and allowing the anti-GOD and Marxist-Socialistic crowd to slowly change so much of what has been good in America. Christians who sincerely believe in God's revelation of Himself in Jesus Christ as revealed by the Bible and preached in the church have to do a lot of soul-searching as they vote for candidates and their political parties on November 2nd.

Every vote counts and God is keeping a record of our voting. There are holy consequences to our voting for candidates who obviously and intentionally represent the forces of evil and openly mock and ridicule the God of our Christian faith. We should support and vote for candidates who weigh their decisions in the light of their Christian faith and the long established Judeo-Christian principles of our Founding Fathers.

Our votes determine the elected majority who will govern America. The elected majority is entrusted by "we the people" to govern America with our consent to defend our Constitution and follow its truths. Now is the time for to use our power to be a voice of opposition to the those who advocate destructive "goals for America"party, who if left unchecked, will destroy our Country and our way of life for generations. A large part of their activities have been below the radar and covertly strategic is their planning to change and destroy America. If you are being awakened, I hope and pray that you will become politically active and witness to the values and principles of the Christian faith with your voice, service, money, and vote. God bless you and God bless our United States of America.

Chaplain (LTC) John Szilvasy, Retired

Stolen Valor Act Update

2011-10-25T04:42:00.000-07:00

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case questioning the constitutionality a 2006 law that makes it a criminal offense to lie about being decorated for military service. The court said Monday that it will hear the case of Xavier Alvarez. While running for election in 2007 to a seat on a local water board in California, Alvarez claimed that he had been awarded the Medal of Honor while serving in the Marine Corps. He later admitted that he was never in the military.

The government prosecuted him and he pleaded guilty, faced a fine of $5,000 and was ordered to perform 416 hours of community service. Alvarez appealed the conviction, claiming the Stolen Valor Act violates his freedom of speech. He won, and that ruling was upheld by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in California, which essentially ruled that people have a right to lie about being in the military.

The Justice Department asked the Supreme Court to hear the case and consider reinstating Alvarez’s conviction, and affirming the law’s constitutionality. The Supreme Court may hear the case during its upcoming term, which would lead to an oral argument in the spring and a ruling by June.

Lawyers for a California man who pleaded guilty to lying about getting a military medal are arguing that falsehoods sometimes have value. The case is one of two that are challenging the federal Stolen Valor Act, which makes it a crime to falsely claim to be a war hero.

In California, Xavier Alvarez of Pomona pleaded guilty to falsely claiming he was awarded the Medal of Honor, but he also challenged the constitutionality of the law. A three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals court sided with him and ruled the law violated the 1st Amendment. Prosecutors asked the full court to review the ruling, but the court hasn’t said whether it will. Alvarez’s lawyers filed documents last week arguing against another review.

They cite John Milton, a 17th century writer, and John Stuart Mill, a 19th century philosopher, to argue that falsehoods can improve public debate by spurring the search for truth. They also said the three-judge panel’s ruling was clear, that some lies are protected by the 1st Amendment and that Alvarez’s false claim to have a medal posed no clear and present danger.

The other challenge is in Colorado. A federal court in Denver ruled the law is unconstitutional, and prosecutors say they will appeal.

For updates and more information go to Stolen Valor and the team that goes after people lying about being patriots or heroes, click here:

7th Special Forces Group - The Movie

2011-10-21T20:10:00.000-07:00

I believe this was created by the 7th SFG. Good movie, although I don't think Ike would necessarily like the music.

SF and CIA, First In, Last Out

2011-10-16T19:01:00.001-07:00

From an Associated Press article by by Kimberly Dozier. They were the first Americans into Afghanistan after the Sept. 11 attacks and will probably be the last U.S. forces to leave. As most American troops prepare to withdraw in 2014, the CIA
and military special operations forces to be left behind are girding for the next great pivot of the campaign, one that could stretch their war up to another decade.

The war's 10th anniversary Friday recalled the beginnings of a conflict that drove the Taliban from power and lasted far longer than was imagined. "We put the CIA guys in first," scant weeks after the towers in New York fell, said Lt. Gen. John Mulholland, then a colonel with U.S. special operations forces, in charge of the military side of the operation. U.S. Special Forces Green Berets, together with
CIA officers, helped coordinate anti-Taliban forces on the ground with U.S. firepower from the air, to topple the Taliban and close in on al-Qaida.

Recent remarks from the White House suggest the CIA and special operations forces will be hunting al-Qaida and working with local forces long after most U.S. troops have left. When Afghan troops take the lead in 2014, "the U.S. remaining force will be basically an enduring presence force focused on counterterrorism," said National Security Advisor Tom Donilon, in remarks in Washington in mid-September. That will be augmented by teams that will continue to train Afghan forces, added White House spokesman Tommy Vietor.

The White House insists this does not mean abandoning the strategy of counter insurgency, in which large numbers of troops are needed to keep the population safe. It simply means replacing the surge of 33,000 U.S. troops, as it withdraws over the next year, with newly trained Afghan ones, according to senior White House Afghan war adviser Doug Lute. It also means U.S. special operators and CIA officers will be there for the next turn in the campaign. That's the moment when Afghans will either prove themselves able to withstand a promised Taliban resurgence, or find themselves overwhelmed by seasoned Taliban fighters. "We're moving toward an increased special operations role," together with U.S. intelligence, Mulholland said, "whether it's counterterrorism-centric, or counterterrorism blended with counterinsurgency."

As out-going head of U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Mulholland has been in charge of feeding a steady stream of troops to commanders in the field. He knows they need as many special operations troops as he can produce and send. Those special operations forces under his command include U.S. Army Rangers, known for their raiding operations against militant targets, and U.S. Special Forces Green Berets, whose stock in trade is teaching local forces to fight a common enemy so the U.S. doesn't have to.

A foundation for special-operations-style counterinsurgency is already under way - staffed primarily by the Green Berets - with the establishment of hundreds of sites in remote Afghan villages where the U.S. troops are paired with Afghan local tribesmen trained by the Americans, Mulholland explained. The program has been so successful in the eyes of NATO commanders that they've assigned other special operators like Navy SEALs to the mission, and even paired elite troops with conventional forces to stretch the numbers and cover more territory.

Senior U.S. officials have spoken of keeping a mix of 10,000 of both raiding and training special operations forces in Afghanistan, and drawing down to between 20,000 and 30,000 conventional forces to provide logistics and support. But at this point, the figures are as fuzzy as the future strategy.

Whatever happens with U.S. troops, intelligence officers know they will be a key component. A senior U.S. official tasked with mapping out their role envisioned a possible future in which Afghan forces are able to hold Kabul and other urban areas, but the Taliban comes back in remote valleys or even whole provinces.

In that event, the official said, CIA and special operations forces would continue to hunt al-Qaida in Taliban areas the Afghan forces can't secure. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss planning for sensitive operations. "If the CIA built an intelligence network that could provide special operations forces with targets, we could do the job," said Maj. Gen. Bennet S. Sacolick, who runs the U.S. Army's Special Warfare Center and School.

The only question will be which organization is in charge, and that will depend on the Afghan government, the senior U.S. official said. If Afghan authorities are comfortable with U.S. raiders continuing to operate openly, the special operations forces can lead, the official said. If they want a more covert presence, the CIA would lead, with special operation raiders working through them.

The other branch of special operations - the Green Berets and others Mulholland mentioned who specialize in training - would continue to support the Afghans in remote locations, trying to keep the Taliban from spreading. The notion of a pared down U.S. fighting force, consisting of a latticework of intelligence and special
operators, plus the far-flung units in the field, has spurred some criticism on Capitol Hill. "You cannot protect the United States' safety with counterterrorism waged from afar," said Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee's emerging threats panel. His concern is that the White House has paid too little attention to how special operations and intelligence will keep the Taliban from overwhelming Afghanistan 's remote terrain.

"I would like to know how many special operations forces they need, and how many conventional troops they propose to support them," he said, "and a rough time line." The smaller special operations footprint could work, if it's part of a larger tapestry of counterinsurgency efforts, said retired Gen. Stanley McChrystal, former commander of the Afghan campaign. "I believe direct action operations are only effective when part of a holistic strategy," McChrystal said in an interview. "That does not necessarily imply large U.S. forces or responsibility, but it must include a spectrum of efforts that addresses root causes, partners with indigenous governments and efforts, and approaches the causes as well as the symptoms on extremism and-or terrorism." In other words, diplomats and aid groups would have to replace the current military efforts at building Afghan government and services - and do it without a large footprint of U.S. forces to provide them security. The smaller numbers would also put the U.S. troops left behind at greater risk, officials concede, with fewer support troops to rush to the rescue.

That's the mission a group of elite special operators was on in August, flying into a remote valley to aid another group of U.S. raiders on the ground, when the Taliban shot down their Chinook helicopter, killing 38 U.S. and Afghan forces on board. Asked if it could happen again, Mulholland stopped and bowed his head, taking a long pause to think back to how it started. "From the beginning, we accepted that risk," Mulholland said, remembering the early days when he sent load after load of special
operations forces into Afghanistan, with no sure way to get them out. He paused again. "We still do."

Special Forces in Uganda

2011-10-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

U.S. Special Forces Green Berets arrived in Uganda. The first wave of U.S. Special Forces Green Berets arrived in Uganda this week to support the battle against a guerrilla group accused of widespread atrocities, Pentagon and military officials told NBC News.

President Barack Obama has ordered up to 100 U.S. military trainers into central Africa to help combat the Lord's Resistance Army, a band of just 200 rebels behind a campaign of murder, rape and kidnapping that began 20 years ago.

Officials told NBC News on Friday the first dozen Green Berets were in Uganda and the remaining American trainers would be deployed to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic and South Sudan .

In the president's notification to Congress on Friday, Obama said the U.S. forces were combat-equipped and would provide assistance and training to regional forces working to remove the group's leader, Joseph Kony, and his band from the battlefield.

U.S. military officials told NBC News that although the Lord's Resistance Army has a force of only about 200 rebels, they have managed to operate for decades because the African nations involved have not pursued them. The rebels' mobility and the terrain's difficulties also have made for a difficult fight. Attempts to negotiate peace failed in 2008 after Kony refused to sign a deal to end the killing.

U.S. officials told NBC News that the presence of American forces was intended, in part, to push the regional forces into taking action against the rebels. Col. Felix Kulayigye, Uganda 's military spokesman, said of the troops: "We are aware that they are coming. We are happy about it. We look forward to working with them and eliminating Kony and his fighters."

Fighting anti-insurgency

While the size of the U.S. footprint is small, Obama's announcement represents a highly unusual intervention for the United States. Although some American troops are based in Djibouti and small groups of soldiers have been deployed to Somalia, the U.S. traditionally has been reluctant to commit forces to help African nations put down insurgencies.

It demonstrates the Obama administration's escalating attention to and fears about security risks in Africa, including terror networks, piracy and unstable nations. The move was intended to show some engagement to lessen the impact of one of the worst protracted wars in Africa.

Obama declared that his decision to send troops was in keeping with the national security interests of the United States. The White House announced it in a low-key fashion, releasing the Obama notification and justification of the troop deployment that the president sent to congressional leaders.

Pentagon officials said the bulk of the deployment will be of special operations troops, who will provide security and combat training to African units. Most of the troops will deploy to regional capitals to work with government officials and military commanders on countering the rebels and protecting civilians, Pentagon officials said. Pentagon spokesman George Little said U.S. troops would train local forces in activities such as tracking, intelligence assessment and conducting patrols "to render the LRA ineffective." The trainers "will be armed for self- defense," Little said.

American efforts to combat Lord's group also took place during the administration of President George W. Bush, The New York Times reported. The Bush Administration authorized the Pentagon to send a team of 17 counterterrorism advisers to train Ugandan troops and provided millions of dollars worth of aid, including fuel trucks, satellite phones and night-vision goggles, to the Ugandan Army. Those efforts scattered segments of the LRA in recent years; its remnants dispersed and regrouped in Uganda ’s neighbors, the Times said. In spring 2010, apparently desperate for new conscripts, Kony’s forces killed hundreds of villagers in the Congolese jungle and kidnapped hundreds more, according to witnesses interviewed at the time.

The move raises the profile of U.S. involvement on the continent and represents an apparent victory for administration officials who have argued for more robust intervention in humanitarian crises.

The Green Beret

2011-10-14T15:12:00.000-07:00

The origins of the Green Beret which Special Forces personnel wear can be traced to Scotland during the Second World War. U.S. Army Rangers and Office of Strategic Services (OSS) operatives who underwent training from the British Commandos were awarded the Green Beret upon completion of the grueling and revolutionary commando course. However, this green beret was not authorized by the U.S. Army among the Rangers and OSS operatives who earned them. Edson Raff, one of the first Special Forces officers, is credited with the re-birth of the green beret.

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy authorized them for use exclusively by the U.S. Special Forces. Preparing for an 12 October visit to the Special Warfare Center at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the President sent word to the Center's commander, Brigadier General William P. Yarborough, for all Special Forces soldiers to wear green berets as part of the event. The President felt that since they had a special mission, Special Forces should have something to set them apart from the rest. In 1962, he called the green beret "a symbol of excellence, a badge of courage, a mark of distinction in the fight for freedom."

"It was President Kennedy who was responsible for the rebuilding of the Special Forces and giving us back our Green Beret," said Forrest Lindley, a writer for the newspaper Stars and Stripes who served with Special Forces in Vietnam. "People were sneaking around wearing it when conventional forces weren't in the area and it was sort of a cat and mouse game," he recalled. "When Kennedy authorized the Green Beret as a mark of distinction, everybody had to scramble around to find berets that were really green. We were bringing them down from Canada. Some were handmade, with the dye coming out in the rain."

thanks to Wikipedia

DD 214 Increased Social Security Benefits For Vets

2011-10-13T06:40:00.000-07:00

EXTRA SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFIT for those with active duty between January 1957 to December 31, 2001

In a nutshell it boils down to this:

You qualify for a higher social security payment because of your Military service, for active duty any time from 1957 through 2001 (the program was done away with 1 January 2002). Up to $1200 per year of earnings credit credited at time of application - which can make a substantial difference in social security monthly payments upon your retirement.

You must bring your DD-214 to the Social Security Office and you must ask for this benefit to receive it!

Social Security website:

This is something to put in your files for when you apply for Social Security down the road. It is NOT just for retirees, BUT anyone who has served on active duty between January 1957 to December 31, 2001.

Again - this benefit is not automatic, you must ask for it!

Chaplains Corner September 2011

2011-10-04T21:05:00.000-07:00

The following is what God gave to the Jews to help them get along with God and each other. Thought it might be helpful to you read them in modern English and think about their influence in your lives.

The Ten Commandments from God given to Moses at Mount Sinai:

1. You shall have no other gods before me.
2. You shall not make for yourself any graven image.
3. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.
5. Honor your father and your mother.
6. You shall not murder.
7. You shall not commit adultery.
8. You shall not steal.
9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
10. You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor’s.

And this one is from me:
You shall use only clean speech at all times and places, because unclean speech will be interpreted as a sign of disrespect to Christians and will offend them deeply.

Chaplain (LTC) John Szilvasy, Retired

Special Forces Association Regions and Regional Representatives

2011-10-01T12:47:00.000-07:00

The SFA has grown significantly over the years to the point where the span of control has exceeded what the six man National Board of Officers (NBO) can effectively handle without assistance. With over eighty five plus chapters worldwide, and with the NBO consisting of elected volunteers with full time jobs, a system needed to be developed to better involve the chapters in decision making, enhance the flow of communication, and help to maintain the SFA as a cohesive single entity while still maintaining chapter autonomy. Additionally, this system will better facilitate fund raising events, support to overall Chapter, Regional, and National programs, and help pave the way ahead for the SFA.

The SFA is broken down into 10 geographic regions as follows:

Region 1: Northeast: NH, NY, MA, RI, NJ, PA;
Chapters 19/42/48/54/61/64/66/67/72
Regional Representative: Denzil Drewry (Chpt 54)

Region 2: Midwest: MN, WI, MI, IL, OH, MO, KY; 11
Chapters (5TH Group) 20/27/29/37/35/38/45/55/73/82/99
Regional Representative: Jim Ringland (82) ALT: Frank Wisniewski (38)

Region 3: Mid-Atlantic: VA, DC, WV, MD;
Chapters 11/26/53/68/84/90
Regional Representative: Mr. Louis “Lou” Hoffman (11)

Region 4: Carolinas: NC, SC
Chapters; (7th, 3d, SWC, SF CMD) 1-18/6/34/57/62/100
Regional Representative: Jim Blanchard (MAL)

Region 5: Florida.
Chapters; 7/21/40/44/60/74/76/85/88/94
Regional Representative: Bob Meyer (74)

Region 6: Southeast: GA, AL, LA, MS, AR, OK
Chapters (20thGp) 30/32/33/49/50/59/79/81/92
Regional Representative: Mr. Clete Sinyard (1-18)

Region 7: Tex-Mex: TX, NM;
Chapters 9/15/31/39/41/56/77/80/93/95
Regional Representative: Mike Querner (93) ALT: Frank Graham; Burt Hernandez (93)

Region 8: Southwest: CA, NV, AZ ;
Chapters 10/12/14/22/23/51/75/78/89
Regional Representative: John Cleckner (89), ALT: Ron Thomas (5);JohnHanke (10)

Region 9: Northwest: WA, OR, HI, Pacific;
Chapters (1st Group club) 2/3/8/13/16/25/43/46/47/86
Regional Representative: Bill Gates (16)

Region 10: Mountain: MT, ID, WY, UT, CO, GE, Iraq;
Chapters (10thGp, 19thGp) 4-24/5/28/52/65/69/70/71/91
Regional Representative: Don Bennett (4-24)

Contact from Germany

2011-09-28T14:42:00.000-07:00

This Chapter Blog received a contact from Manfred in Germany, who (now deceased Father) knew Frank Garllardo,..maybe Frank's name was spelled Gallardo. Anyway, if anyone thinks they know Frank who was stationed in Bad Tolz, please reply via the comment block.

Manfred's comment:

Hi oder Hallo ! Durch Zufall bin ich auf eure Seite gestossen. Ich lebe in Germany. Vor langen Jahren war ein SF Soldier stationiert in ...Bad Toelz... ein Freund meines Vaters. Das war in Kaiserslautern/Heltersberg. Daher mein anliegen,gibt es diesen ...Frank Garllado...last Rank MSG and stationiert in Berlin/west,noch ?Mein Vater ist zwar schon lange tot,ich fand im Nachlass ( Heritage ) von ihm einige Fotos,von Frank. Auch bestand ein ...Briefkontakt...zwischen herrn Garllado und meinem Vater. Zuletzt von Berlin/West aus. Regards Manfred

Translated via BabelFish (leaves something to be desired):

Rear one or hello! By accident I am encountered your site. I live in Germany. Forwards long years was stationed a SF Soldier in… Bad Toelz… a friend of my father. That was in Kaiserslautern/Heltersberg. From there mine lie close, give it to these… MSG Frank Garllado… who was stationed in Berlin West, I think? My father is of course for a long time dead, I found in the deduction (Heritage) of him some photos, of Frank. Also… a letter contact existed… between Mr. Garllado and my father. Last from Berlin/west. Regards Manfred

Military Retiree Pay Dates to Change

2011-09-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

Paydays for military retirees and those who receive portions of retired pay are changing for September and December, as the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) changes its pay schedule to comply with the 2011 National Defense Authorization Act.

The 2011 NDAA requires military retiree pay to be processed on the first day of the month. When that day falls on a weekend or national holiday, the pay date is moved to the previous business day.

This year payments normally scheduled for Oct. 3, 2011 will be issued on Sept. 30, 2011 and payments normally scheduled for Jan. 3, 2012, will be issued on Dec. 30, 2011. For the calendar year 2011, this means military retirees will receive 13 rather than the normal 12 payments.

The 13th payday on December 30 falls within the 2011 tax year, which could affect the tax liability of some retirees and those who receive portions of their retired pay. Customers should speak with a tax advisor, the Internal Revenue Service or their state tax authority to determine if their tax withholding will satisfy federal and state income taxes when they file returns next year. DFAS cannot provide tax advice.

For tax year 2012 and beyond, retirees will receive their normal 12 payments.
This change affects regular retired pay, Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay and Combat Related Special Compensation. The new rule also applies to retiree allotments, garnishments and court-ordered former spouse and child support payments. It does not affect annuity payments.

If retirees need to make changes to their federal or state tax withholding, the quickest and most secure way to do so is through myPay. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, myPay enables eligible users around the world to make routine changes to their pay information, including tax withholding, that become effective within days.

Chapter Meeting Notes 17 September 2011

2011-09-25T19:35:00.001-07:00

6th Annual John McLaughlin Memorial Golf Tournament. Held at Butterfield Trails Golf Course on Friday, the day before the meeting. We came very close to the 20K goal.

Election of Officers. Nominations for Club Officers opened. All officers carried forward except VP. Brady. Steve Franzoni nominated for VP. Chuck moved to accept slate of officers. Motion carried. Installation of Officers will occur at the December Christmas party.

Wreaths Across America. Debbie Torrez (Rolando) will chair the project again with the Civil Air Patrol. It will be held on Saturday 10 December at the FT Bliss cemetery.

Christmas Party. No details have been decided but we need to gear up for this and set a location and date. 16th Annual Ralph Dominguez/Jerry Montoya Food Drive: Committee Chairman was Jerry Compos last year. We need to assemble a committee and get working on donations and charities to receive food. Bulk donation will likely go to Chihuahita like last year.

Korean War Veteran Remains. CPL Edwardo Pedregon: Roy Aldridge is our point man with Korean War Vets (581-4725) concerning activities pertaining to the return, on 28 SEP of CPL remains. Following airport ceremonies, Pedregon's remains will be transported by funeral home, escorted by Fort Bliss Honor Guard. 1 OCT Services will be held at the historic San Elizario Chapel, under the supervision of the San Elizario Geological Society. CPL Pedegron was MIA since NOV 1950 and his remains have been found. A big ceremony will take place and Louis Lopez is also involved since he works with Congressman Reyes. There are still 2 El Paso MIA’s from the Korean War.

Fiesta De Las Flores. More than a dozen members attended the event, chaired by Gus Gonzalez. The Military appreciation night was again a big success. See picture below, L to R: Steve and Monica Frazoni, Ike and Gracie Camacho.

Upcoming Events:

Next Chapter Meeting Saturday 15 October at VFW Post 812

SFA 2012 Convention 11-17 June Fort Bragg, NC – 60th Anniversary (Chapter 1-18)

SFA 2013 - San Antonio, TX (Chapter 15) 2014 - Columbia, South Carolina (Chapter 34)

Sobering Statistics of the Men on the Vietnam Memorial Wall

2011-09-24T12:53:00.000-07:00

Something to think about. "Carved on these walls is the story of America , of a continuing quest to preserve both democracy and decency, and to protect a national treasure that we call the American dream."

Something to think about: Most of the surviving parents of the dead are now deceased themselves.

There are 58,267 names now listed on that polished black wall, including those added in 2010.

The names are arranged in the order in which they were taken from us by date and within each date the names are alphabetized. It is hard to believe it is 36 years since the last casualties.

The first known casualty was Richard B. Fitzgibbon, of North Weymouth, Mass., listed by the U.S. Department of Defense as having been killed on June 8, 1956. His name is listed on the Wall with that of his son, Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Richard B. Fitzgibbon III, who was killed on Sept. 7, 1965.

There are three sets of fathers and sons on the Wall.

39,996 on the Wall were just 22or younger.

The largest age group, 8,283 were just 19 years old, 33,103 were 18 years old.

12 soldiers on the Wall were 17 years old and 5 soldiers on the Wall were 16 years old.

One soldier, PFC Dan Bullock was 15 years old.

997 soldiers were killed on their first day in Vietnam .

1,448 soldiers were killed on their last scheduled day in Vietnam.

31 sets of brothers are on the Wall.

Thirty one sets of parents lost two of their sons.

54 soldiers on the Wall attended Thomas Edison High School in Philadelphia ....wonder why so many from one school?

8 Women are on the Wall -- nursing the wounded.

244 soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor during the Vietnam War; 153 of them are on the Wall.

Beallsville, Ohio with a population of 475 lost 6 of her sons.

West Virginia had the highest casualty rate per capita in the nation. There are 711 West Virginians on the Wall.

The Marines of Morenci - They led some of the scrappiest high school football and basketball teams that the little Arizona copper town of Morenci (pop. 5,058) had ever known and cheered. They enjoyed roaring beer busts. In quieter moments, they rode horses along the Coronado Trail, stalked deer in the Apache National Forest. And in the patriotic camaraderie typical of Morenci's mining families, the nine
graduates of Morenci High enlisted as a group in the Marine Corps. Their service began on Independence Day, 1966. Only 3 returned home.

The Buddies of Midvale - LeRoy Tafoya, Jimmy Martinez, Tom Gonzales were all boyhood friends and lived on three consecutive streets in Midvale, Utah on Fifth, Sixth and Seventh avenues. They lived only a few yards apart. They played ball at the adjacent sandlot ball field. And they all went to Vietnam. In a span of 16 dark days in late 1967, all three would be killed. LeRoy was killed on Wednesday, Nov. 22, the fourth anniversary of John F. Kennedy's assassination. Jimmy died less than 24 hours later on Thanksgiving Day. Tom was shot dead assaulting the enemy on Dec. 7, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

The most casualty deaths for a single day was on January 31, 1968 -- 245 deaths.

The most casualty deaths for a single month was May 1968 -- 2,415 casualties were incurred.

For many Americans who read this they will only see the numbers that the Vietnam War created. To those of us who survived the war, and to the families of those who did not, we see the faces, we feel the pain that these numbers created. We are, until we too pass away, haunted with these numbers, because they were our friends, fathers, husbands, wife's, sons and daughters.

There are no noble wars, just noble warriors...

"That we never forget"

Marine Salutes Rolling Thunder

2011-09-19T08:20:00.000-07:00

Wow! You have to hand it to this retired Marine Staff Sergeant. Year in and year out he stands for 3 hours at a time in the heat, in Marine Corps Dress Uniform, and holds a hand salute to the Rolling Thunder parade that passes by. This year he did it with a broken wrist!

Why didn't we see this on national News?

MSG Ralph Reno Returns Home

2011-09-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

From a Fayetteville Observer article received through the SF net.

Master Sgt. Ralph Reno's name is etched on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington. It's listed on a monument at Fayetteville 's Freedom Memorial Park and on at least one memorial on Fort Bragg. But nearly a half century after his death, Reno 's name does not appear on any gravestone. That all changed on Sept 8, 2001 when Reno, a Green Beret with the 5th Special Forces Group who went missing in Vietnam in 1966, is memorialized at Arlington National Cemetery . The ceremony - a funeral with full military honors - marks the final chapter in a 45-year search for Reno that started on July 3, 1966.

On that day, in Vietnam 's central highlands, Reno, 38, and two other American soldiers were flying over a jungle covered mountain ridge along with a squad of South Vietnamese commandos. Reno and the other Americans were part of an unconventional warfare task force engaged in highly classified operations throughout southeast Asia, according to Task Force Omega, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the full accounting and return of prisoners of war and soldiers missing in action.

The helicopter, a UH-34 Seahorse, was flying from Kham Duc, a forward operating base near the South Vietnam-Laos border, to Kon Tum, a province approximately 70 miles to the southeast. En route, the Seahorse encountered severe air turbulence, according to officials. The pitching and tossing of the helicopter snapped a pin in the aircraft's tail, which swung into the helicopter and caused it to crash into the mountains of Quang Nam province. "It fell over 1,500 feet in a tight spiral," according to Task Force Omega's website, "ejecting its passengers, crew and debris over a large area."

Fayetteville family Later that day, on the other side of the world, the Reno family - wife Lois and three children, Nancy, Mary and Ralph "Trey" III - enjoyed a cookout at their Fayetteville home off Hope Mills Road. When visitors came to the door, Nancy Reno Philligin, then 8 years old, said the family thought they were guests returning to pick up leftovers they forgot to take with them. Instead, Army officials were there bearing the news of Reno 's disappearance and probable death. Philligin, now 53 and living in Greenville, said at first, the family didn't believe their father was gone.
"We held out hope," she said. "We were young then, so we didn't understand everything. Up to 20 years ago, I still hoped he was alive."

Mary Reno Grier, Reno 's oldest daughter, was 10 years old at the time of the crash. She said she remembers a commotion at the front door, then her mom breaking down into tears before the Army officials entered the house.
"It was a very sad and stressful time for all of us," said Grier, who is 55 and lives in Lucama. "I remember. I think you don't ever really forget about stuff like that."

In the coming days, the bodies of Staff Sgt. Donald Fawcett and Capt. Edwin MacNamara - the other Americans on Reno 's Seahorse - were found, as were a number of bodies of Vietnamese commandos. As for Reno , officials could find no definitive sign of the Special Forces soldier. Decades passed, and the family continued to live in Fayetteville.
Reno 's wife, Lois, had to learn to drive, Grier said. The family leaned on neighbors and friends for support. All the time, they didn't know if their patriarch would ever come home.

Extensive search

Military officials said they never forgot about Reno. In the days after the crash in 1966, three search-and-rescue missions were conducted in an attempt to recover the bodies of those killed, said Maj. Carie Parker, a spokeswoman for the Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office. During those missions, officials recovered the bodies of Reno 's two U.S. colleagues and seven Vietnamese. The next attempt to find Reno came years after the end of the Vietnam War, when between 1993 and 1997 a joint U.S.-Socialist Republic of Vietnam team tried to survey the crash site.
That team, led by the U.S. Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command, turned back because of the hazards of the steep mountainous terrain and dense foliage, Parker said.

Officials tried again in September 1999 and were successful in locating the wreckage. Excavation of the site began the next year, turning up human remains and military equipment, Parker said. Another team returned to the site in 2007 and, in 2010, the site was excavated for a second time, with more human remains and military equipment recovered. While officials searched for Reno in the mountainous jungles of Vietnam , Reno 's family was unaware. "For 35 years, we thought we were the only ones who remembered," Grier said. "We didn't know anyone was looking for him. We thought we would just never know. It was really hard for us. We felt so alone."

Lost in Vietnam, the Timeline

A time line of what happened to Master Sgt. Ralph Joseph Reno Jr.:
July 3, 1966: A UH-34 helicopter carrying Master Sgt. Ralph Joseph Reno Jr., Staff Sgt. Donald Fawcett and Capt. Edwin MacNamara, along with a squad of South Vietnamese commandos, crashes into the mountains of Quang Nam province. In the days after the crash, the bodies of Fawcett, MacNamarra and several South Vietnamese are recovered.
July 4, 1967: Reno is officially declared dead by the military.
1993 to 1997: A joint U.S.-Socialist Republic of Vietnam team tries to survey the crash site but turns back because of the hazardous terrain.
September 1999: Officials successfully locate wreckage from the UH-34 helicopter.
2000: An excavation of the site begins, with officials finding human remains and military equipment.
2007: Officials again return to the site.
2010: A second excavation begins, with more human remains and equipment recovered.
Sept. 8, 2011: The remains of Reno and 12 Vietnamese nationals laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.

Military Retiree Pay Dates to Change

2011-09-06T15:47:00.000-07:00

Chaplain's Corner - August 2011

2011-09-04T20:34:00.000-07:00

Chaplain’s Corner: Jesus said, "Ask and it will be given to you; and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks find, and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will given him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give gifts to you children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him" Sometimes, however, it may seem as if the Lord has given us "stones" instead of "bread." But in His wisdom, He actually is working through our circumstances to give us something far better than what we requested. Matthew 7:7-11, Holy Bible, New Testament. An unknown author explains Jesus' teaching this way:

"I asked for health that I might do greater things: I was given infirmity that I might do better things. I asked God for strength that I might achieve; I was made weak that I might learn to obey. I asked for riches that I might be happy; I was given poverty that I might be wise. I asked for power and the praise of men; I was given weakness to sense my need of God. I asked for all things that I might enjoy life; I was given life that I might all things. I got nothing I asked for but everything I hoped for. In spite of myself, my prayers were answered --I among all men was most richly blessed." Yes, God always gives us what is best for us.

Chaplain John Szilvasy, LTC Retired

Chapter Meeting Notes - 20 August 2011

2011-09-04T20:29:00.000-07:00

SFA Chapter IX Annual John McLaughlin Golf Tournament will be at Butterfield Trails Golf Course Friday, 16 September 2011.

Election of Officers: The Chapter will begin nominations in September with elections in November and Installation of Officers at the December Christmas party. Tom Brady said he will not seek reelection as VP.

Wreaths Across America: Debbie Torrez announced the Civil Air Patrol was gearing up for the project again. It will be held on Saturday 10 December at the FT Bliss cemetery. This is a change from Friday in the past. We will get the fliers out soon.

SF Pre-Mission Training Cell, Fort Bliss. MSG Gordon Waugh announced that he is working a large exercise to take place Jan-Feb 2012, based in Dell City and they are looking for civilian role players. More info later.

USASMA Class 62 has 23 SF students this year. More info on the Chapter annual welcoming of Sergeants Majors' Students to be published later.

Roy Aldridge is our point man with Korean War Vets (581-4725) concerning activities pertaining to the return, on 28 SEP 2011, of CPL Edwardo Pedregon's remains. Following airport ceremonies, Pedregon's remains will be transported by funeral home, escorted by Fort Bliss Honor Guard. 1 OCT Services will be held at the historic San Elizario Chapel, under the supervision of the San Elizario Geological Society. CPL Pedegron was MIA since NOV 1950 and his remains have been found. There are still 2 El Paso MIA’s from the Korean War.

Texas Legislation for Veteran's Endorsement on Driver's License

2011-09-02T06:33:00.000-07:00

During the 82nd legislative session, Rep. Jason Isaac (R-Dripping Springs) was successful in passing legislation that will allow veterans to add an endorsement to their Texas driver's license. House Bill 1514 will help honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces more easily prove their status.

Rep. Isaac commented, "I have many veterans in my family, and it was recently brought to my attention that they often must carry their discharge form (DD-214) with them at all times in order to prove their status. Many businesses, organizations, and events provide certain benefits to this honorable group of citizens and it seems unnecessary that this cumbersome form is the only proof of service that they currently have. Adding a small endorsement to a veteran's driver's license is a common sense solution to this issue."

The bill take effect on September 1st, but because the Department of Public Safety (DPS) will need to establish and approve rules as well as develop software for the new license, it may not be available until several months later. DPS is already working on the implementation of the bill and veterans across the state are welcome to call Rep. Isaac's office or request to join his email newsletter list for updates on the progress of the license.

When the development is complete, veterans will simply have to present proof of honorable service at the DPS office when they renew their license in order to have the endorsement added.

Rep. Isaac continued, "My hope is that this will not only make day to day life more convenient for veterans, but also cut down on instances of fraud in which non-veterans seek benefits reserved for those who have bravely served our country. Although no license, tax exemption, or benefit can ever repay the debt owed to our veterans, I hope these efforts are a small token of appreciation for their service."

The Woman Marine Pilot

2011-08-30T14:39:00.000-07:00

The teacher gave her fifth grade class an assignment: Get their parents to tell them a story with a moral at the end of it. The next day, the kids came back and, one by one, began to tell their stories.

There were all the regular types of stuff: Spilled milk and pennies saved. But then the teacher realized, much to her dismay, that only Janie was left.

"Janie, do you have a story to share?"

"Yes ma'am" Janie replied. "My daddy told me a story about my Mommy. She was a Marine pilot in Desert Storm, and her plane got hit. She had to bail out over enemy territory, and all she had was a flask of whiskey, a pistol, and a survival knife."

"Oh My God!" cried the Teacher, "How horrible,......did she live?"

Janie nodded, the said, "She drank the whiskey on the way down so the bottle wouldn't break, and then her parachute landed her right in the middle of 20 Iraqi troops. She shot 15 of them with the pistol, until she ran out of bullets, killed four more with the knife, till the blade broke, and then she killed the last Iraqi with her bare hands."

"Good Heavens,"' said the horrified teacher. "What possible moral to this horrible story could there be?"

Janie replied, "Daddy said the moral of the story was don't MESS with Mommy when she's been drinking."

2011 Winners of the Jerry P. Rainey Memorial Scholarship

2011-08-25T10:13:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 20 August, Special Forces Association Chapter IX was pleased to award two $500 scholarships to very deserving individuals. From Left to Right Below: Steve Franzoni, Scholarship Committee; Omar Gutierrez, Scholarship Recipient; COL(P)Doyle, Commander of William Beaumont Army Medical Center and Scholarship Presenter; Bridget Tokode,Scholarship Recipient;Greg Brown,Scholarship Committee; and, Leo Enriquez, Scholarship Committee.

The Chapter is very pleased with the caliber of winners since the scholarship inception until now. In fact, the following conversation took place on e-mail just to articulate one winner's character:

To Greg Brown, Scholarship Committee:

"Sir, I was surprise to have seen $500.00 check instead of $250.00. Pls sir, let me know if it is mistake so as to return the check or the change. Once again, thanks, I felt honored and motivated. God bless you, the family and the organization. Thanks, Bridget."

To Bridget(Scholarship Recipient):
"Bridget, It is not a mistake. We advertise $250, but if we have enough money we give $500. We had enough money this year to do that. You are welcome. I felt it was also my privilege to meet you and your husband. I enjoyed sitting and talking with you. Good luck with your schooling. Sincerely, Greg"

Amazed at today's Soldiers!

2011-08-22T19:36:00.000-07:00

We have all heard the saying "A picture is worth a thousand words",....but in this case, a more appropriate title would be "a picture that leaves you speechless". Where in the world do we get men (and women) of this caliber?

Dogs of War

2011-08-20T09:44:00.000-07:00

The Dog That Cornered Osama Bin Laden,.....not your standard K9. When U.S. President Barack Obama went to Fort Campbell , Kentucky , for a highly publicized, but very private meeting with the commando team that killed Osama bin Laden, only one of the 81 members of the super-secret SEAL DevGru unit was identified by name: Cairo, the war dog.

Cairo , like most canine members of the elite U.S. Navy SEALs, is a Belgian Malinois. The Malinois breed is similar to German shepherds but smaller and more compact, with an adult male weighing in the 30-kilo range.

German shepherds are still used as war dogs by the American military but the lighter, stubbier Malinois is considered better for the tandem parachute jumping and rappelling operations often undertaken by SEAL teams. Labrador retrievers are also favoured by various military organizations around the world.

Like their human counterparts, the dog SEALs are highly trained, highly skilled, highly motivated special ops experts, able to perform extraordinary military missions by SEa, Air and Land (thus the acronym "SEAL"). The dogs carry out a wide range of specialized duties for the military teams to which they are attached: With a sense of smell 40 times greater than a human's, the dogs are trained to detect and identify both explosive material and hostile or hiding humans.

The dogs are twice as fast as a fit human, so anyone trying to escape is not likely to outrun Cairo or his buddies. The dogs, equipped with video cameras, also enter certain danger zones first, allowing their handlers to see what's ahead before humans follow.

World War II Photos

2011-08-12T11:10:00.000-07:00

Our Chapter Secretary sent these World War II photos to share with our readers.

This is a rare photo of combat operations in Bougainsville.

This photograph depicts winter combat operations in the European Theatre near Bastogne.

Nancy Wake - French Resistance Fighter Passes

2011-08-08T15:45:00.000-07:00

Nancy Wake, Australia's greatest World War II heroine and a prominent figure in the French Resistance known as the "The White Mouse" for her ability to evade the Germans, has died in London. Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard said the woman who was once the Gestapo's most wanted person, was "a devastatingly effective saboteur and spy".

"Nancy Wake was a woman of exceptional courage and resourcefulness whose daring exploits saved the lives of hundreds of Allied personnel and helped bring the Nazi occupation of France to an end," Gillard said.

Wake, who died in a London hospital on Sunday just days short of her 99th birthday, was the nation's most decorated servicewoman from WWII, holding France's Legion d'Honneur, Britain's George Medal and the US Medal of Freedom.

Born in Wellington, New Zealand, she grew up in Australia and politicians in both countries led tributes to the woman who survived several firefights with the enemy, being shot at in a pursuit and a brief imprisonment during the war.

New Zealand's Veterans' Affairs Minister Judith Collins described Wake as "a woman of exceptional courage and tenacity, who cast aside all regard for her own safety and put the cause of freedom first".

Wake ran away from home aged 16 and by the early 1930s was living in Paris, where she worked as a journalist. Witnesses to the rise of fascism in Europe, Wake and her wealthy industrialist husband Henri Fiocca joined the fledgling Resistance after France's surrender in 1940. She once described a visit to Austria in 1933 as a first-hand look at Nazi cruelty.

"In Vienna they had a big wheel and they had the Jews tied to it, and the stormtroopers were there, whipping them. When we were going out of Vienna they took our photos. That was my experience of Hitler," Wake said.

Wake and her husband helped Allied servicemen and Jewish refugees escape into Spain before she took her partner's advice and fled to England in 1943, where she began work in special operations.
She parachuted back into France in April 1944 before D-Day, tasked with helping distribute weapons to Resistance fighters. "In those days it was safer, or a woman had more chance than a man, to get around, because the Germans were taking men out just like that," she later recounted.

Nancy never saw Fiocca again, learning only after the liberation of France that he had been killed by the Gestapo in August 1943.

Read the entire article, from from Yahoo! News here. Great Australian WWII heroine dies at 98 in London.

The Community Mourns Special Operations Personnel in Aviation Loss

2011-08-06T16:26:00.000-07:00

On 6 August 2011 in Eastern Afghanistan, insurgents shot down a U.S. military helicopter during fighting, killing 30 Americans, including 22 SEALS, Air Force Combat Controllers and the MH-47 crew from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. It was the deadliest single loss for American forces in the decade-old war against the Taliban.

The downing, in which seven Afghan commandos were also killed, was a severe blow to the Special Operations Community, the war on terror and this Country. Apparently the MH-47 was downed with RPG's while it was taking part in a night raid on a Taliban compound in the province of Wardak, however the crash is still being investigated.

"Their deaths are a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by the men and women of our military and their families, including all who have served in Afghanistan," a government spokesman said a statement.

All of Special Forces and that of the larger military Special Operations community add our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of those who perished.

AUSA Alert - MILITARY RETIREMENT PAY - NOT A LOGICAL TARGET

2011-08-03T16:31:00.000-07:00

From the AUSA Alert - MILITARY RETIREMENT PAY NOT A LOGICAL TARGET. A proposal that would radically alter the military's retirement system was unveiled last week at a Defense Business Board meeting. The board provides advice to the Secretary of Defense based on best practices from the private sector.

Among the recommendations proposed by the Board's retirement task force is the establishment of a mandatory TSP program for all military servicemembers. Here are some of the proposed changes:

§ The government contribution to the TSP program, including extra incentives, would be funded at a percentage level comparable to the highest end of a private sector pension plan

§ The plan would vest after 3 to 5 years, payable at age 60 to 65 (or Social Security age)

§ Partial withdrawals (or loans) to cover education, healthcare, or other specified emergencies would be allowed

§ The plan would be risk adjusted to recognize combat roles, family separation, and other unusual duty

§ Would double contributions for years in combat zones or high risk positions

§ Would provide greater contributions for hardship tours

§ Would apply to reserve as well as active duty personnel

§ The plan would grandfather existing retirees and "fully disabled" veterans under the current system

Based on the number of calls and emails AUSA has received from its members, this proposal has clearly struck a nerve. Many of our members consider this and other retirement overhaul proposals that have recently been announced to be a "slap in the face."

Shortly after the Board's announcement, AUSA President Gen. Gordon R. Sullivan, USA , Ret., released this statement:
"Guaranteed retirement benefits are essential to recruitment and retention in both the Active and Reserve Components. Retirement benefits are a covenant with our Soldiers."

"Any erosion of retirement benefits, implied or actually promised, affects Soldier morale and can leave retirees with the impression that they have been betrayed. Soldiers earn, and deserve, a high quality retirement program for their selfless, dedicated service to our nation. In today's environment of persistent global conflict, it is imperative that existing retirement benefits are sustained and enhanced for both the Active and Reserve Components (RC) of the Army. Both Active and RC Soldiers and units are being called upon repeatedly for myriad combat and support missions for extended periods, and it is essential that retirement programs further support the sacrifices they make."

"The retirement system must ensure that all of those who serve are properly compensated, retained, and encouraged to complete their careers. We must ensure the benefits available to all retired Soldiers and their Families are commensurate with the increased demands and sacrifices they endure on active duty."

"Our nation demands much from its military, and the retirement benefits in place are not gifts - they have been earned through blood, sweat, toil, repeated deployments, missed births, birthdays and anniversaries and sometimes loss of limbs or life."

"Shifting the burden of our nation's fiscal mess on to the backs of our military -less than one percent of our population who volunteer for decades of service in harm's way defending our way of life - is morally bankrupt."

"The richest nation on earth can afford to continue the current retirement system for those who defend it with a lifetime of service. As has been said time and again - defending freedom is not free."

It is important to remember that this is just a proposal. The Defense Department has not endorsed it nor sent it to Congress as a proposed change to the current plan. Another thing to remember is that over the years there have been many proposals to change the retirement plan. While there is considerably more pressure to cut costs than ever before, it is difficult to imagine Congress changing the retirement system so radically while the military is so heavily engaged.

That said, AUSA is well aware that it is Congress that we must continue to influence. Please add your voice to ours. Go to www.ausa.org, click on "Legislative Agenda" and then "Contact Congress". Put your zip code in the box entitled "Elected Officials and then click on the prepared letter "Preserve Military Retiree's Benefits".

Chaplain’s Corner July 2011

2011-08-02T07:36:00.000-07:00

I believe that a lot of patriotic Americans are either pulling their hair out by the roots, crying/sobbing silently, or beating their chests in anger over what is happening in Washington, D.C. when not paying Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and military personnel should the Congress and the President fail to resolve the financial mess created by professional politicians who put their ideology and/or their re-election before what is good for our Country.

What is there for concerned patriotic, God-loving citizens to do except to pray to God, our Creator for a fair and balanced solution and then write, call, visit their elected representatives, or send financial contributions to organizations that agree with their concerns. It is becoming evident that the print and voice news media are almost totally biased or prejudiced in support of one party to the almost total neglect of the other party. The voice and print news media are not presenting the news about financial mess in a fair and balanced manner so concerned citizens can be better informed about the financial mess.

Thank God and our Constitution that we have the right to vote immoral politicians out and replace them with honest, honorable, and moral politicians. It is my hope that when Christian citizens vote in all elections that they take Jesus with them into the voting booth and vote as Jesus would lead them in their selection of those who are worthy to be elected. It is time for concerned patriotic Americans to be greatly concerned about what kind of a United States of America they will be handing off to their children and grandchildren, and take corrective actions now.

"Onward Christian Soldiers" and may God continue to bless the United States of America.
Chaplain (LTC) John Szilvasy

Chapter Meeting Notes 16 July 2011

2011-08-01T07:08:00.000-07:00

6th Annual John McLaughlin Memorial Golf Tournament: Al Hobbs and Ike Camacho Chair/Co-chair. Golf Committee meetings at noon, just before the SFA 9 general meeting. Butterfield Trails Golf Course is the location for this year's event on Friday, 16 September. Sign up on a form or go to www.butterfieldtrailgolf.com

Jerry Rainey Scholarship: Presentations will be in August at our normal monthly meeting, Steve Franzoni will present. Committee is Greg, Leo and Steve F.

Chapter IX Shirts, Coins, Mugs & Blazers: Shirts and mugs are available.

Teamhouse project is on hold for now.

SFCA 46 Wounded Warrior Cruise – We did not win the cruise but someone in El Paso did win $300.

Rest and Relaxation (R&R) Center FT Bliss: There are 30 AD Soldiers in the group and they need money for arts & crafts. Group meets Wednesday’s 0800-1130. Chapter will donate $200 a month until the end of the year.

Ike Camacho at 1st SFG(A) Re-Union, last month. Billy Waugh’s book “Isaac Camacho, an American Hero” is still available. Website http://www.isaaccamachoamericanhero.com

Announcements and Good of the order: Announcement was made that Friday, 2 SEP, is Military Night at Fiesta De Las Flores At the Coliseum. Free admission to all Military and Vets.

Roy Aldridge is our point man with Korean War Vets (581-4725) concerning activities pertaining to the return, on 28 SEP of CPL Edwardo Pedregon's remains. Following airport ceremonies, Pedregon's remains will be transported by funeral home, escorted by Fort Bliss Honor Guard. 1 October Services will be held at the historic San Elizario Chapel, under the supervision of the San Elizario Geological Society. CPL Pedegron was MIA since NOV 1950 and his remains have been found. A big ceremony will take place and Louis Lopez gave the details since he works with Congressman Reyes. There are still 2 El Paso MIA’s from the Korean War.

Special Forces Association 60th Anniversary Convention

2011-07-31T16:54:00.000-07:00

SFA National Convention 2012

60 YEARS OF SACRIFICES AND SUCCESS Hosted By Chapter 1 – 18

DATE and LOCATION: The national Convention will be held on June 11 through June 17 at the Double Tree Hotel, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

COST: Full registration is $135.00. If you are not planning to attend all events, please use the Limited Registration section below. Any registration with insufficient funds will be returned to the applicant. Please make check payable to SFA Convention 2012 and send to the address below:

MAIL TO: SFA Convention 2012 Attention: Convention 2012 Treasurer Post Office Box 48675 Cumberland, NC 28331-8527

INFO: Convention Chairman: Howard “Zipper” Allen, (910) 485-5433

Our National Symbol Standing Guard

2011-07-26T12:20:00.000-07:00

Taken at the National Cemetery in Minneapolis on a June morning as it appeared in the Minneapolis Star/Tribune.

Talk about a picture being worth a thousand words!!! It says everything without a single word. This should become an official Memorial Day, 4th of July, and/or Veterans Day remembrance photo,....truly “Our national symbol standing guard”

Thanks Dave for sending to us.

U.S. Army Green Beret killed in combat

2011-07-25T11:12:00.000-07:00

FORT BRAGG, N.C. (USASOC News Service, July 17, 2011) – Staff Sergeant Wyatt A. Goldsmith, 28, of Colville, Wash., died July 15, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered after enemy forces engaged his unit.
Goldsmith was assigned to Company A, 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. and was deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom-Afghanistan. This was Goldsmith's 3rd deployment in support of Overseas Contingency Operations.

Born in Redmond , Wash. on September 21, 1982, Goldsmith entered the U.S. Army in June 2004 as a Special Forces recruit. In October 2004, upon completion of basic training, advanced individual training and the basic airborne course at Fort Benning, Ga. he was assigned to the 1st Special Warfare Training Group (Airborne) at Fort Bragg, N.C. Goldsmith attended Special Forces Assessment and Selection in 2005 and was selected to continue his training as medical sergeant in the Special Forces Qualification Course.

After graduating from the Special Forces Qualification Course in 2008, Staff Sgt. Goldsmith was assigned to 3rd Bn, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) Joint Base Lewis-McChord as a Special Forces medical sergeant.
Goldsmith’s military education includes the Special Forces Medical Sergeant Course, Military Freefall Parachutist Course, Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape Course, Basic Airborne Course, Advanced Leaders Course, and the Warrior Leader Course.

His awards include Bronze Star Medal with "V" Device, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal (2nd Award), Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghan Campaign Medal with one campaign star, Iraqi Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Parachutist Badge, Military Freefall Parachutist Badge, Special Forces Tab and Combat Infantryman Badge.
He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and the Meritorious Service Medal.

He is survived by his parents John and Lorie Goldsmith of Colville , Wash. and his sister Nicole.

Vietnam Memorial Names

2011-07-22T22:54:00.000-07:00

First click on a state. When it opens, scroll down to the city and the names will appear. Then click on their names. It should show you a picture of the person, or at least their bio and medals..

This really is an amazing website. Someone spent a lot of time and effort to create it.

I hope that everyone who receives this appreciates what those who served in Vietnam sacrificed for our country.

The link below is a virtual wall of all those lost during the Vietnam war with the names, bio's and other information on our lost heroes. Those who remember that time frame, or perhaps lost friends or family can look them up on this site. Pass the link on to others, as many knew wonderful people whose names are listed.

Virtual Vietnam Memorial

SFC Petry, Army Ranger, awarded Medal Of Honor

2011-07-13T15:54:00.000-07:00

From Reuters News Service - President Barack Obama awarded the Medal of Honor on Tuesday afternoon to Army Ranger Sergeant 1st Class Leroy Petry, the second living soldier to receive the military's highest decoration for actions in Afghanistan.

Petry, originally from New Mexico, is among nine servicemen from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts to receive the medal -- given for "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty."

Seven of the Iraq and Afghanistan medals were granted posthumously. Last year Afghanistan veteran Army Staff Sergeant Salvatore Giunta became the first living recipient of the medal for a post-Vietnam era conflict.

"Today we honor a singular act of gallantry," Obama said at the White House ceremony for Petry on Tuesday.

"As we near the tenth anniversary of the attacks that thrust our nation into war, this is also an occasion to pay tribute to a soldier and a generation that has borne the burden of our security during a hard decade of sacrifice," the president said.

Petry, the newest Medal of Honor recipient, lost his hand while throwing away a live enemy grenade that endangered two fellow Rangers while he was serving in Paktya, Afghanistan on May 26, 2008.

"It's very humbling to know that the guys thought that much of me and my actions that day, to nominate me for that," he told the Army News Service after the award was announced in May.

As a Ranger, 31-year-old Petry is among the Army's most-proven soldiers trained for special operations. He has served two tours of duty in Iraq and six in Afghanistan.

On the day he lost his hand, Petry was leading a high-risk raid in broad daylight, according to the account given by the president.

When one of the assault teams needed support, Petry dived in. While clearing the courtyard, he and another Ranger started taking fire. Petry was wounded in both legs by an insurgent's round.

When another soldier arrived to help, a grenade explosion wounded the two other soldiers. Another grenade followed the first, landing just a few feet away.

"Every human impulse would tell someone to turn away," Obama observed. "Every soldier is trained to seek cover. That's what Sergeant Leroy Petry could have done."

Instead, an already injured Petry disregarded his personal safety to pick up and throw away the grenade, which detonated while still in his hand.

Petry then applied a tourniquet to his own arm, while other soldiers returned fire and killed the enemy.

Petry now uses a robotic hand. After his injuries, Petry reenlisted and now works as a liaison officer for the United States Special Operations Command Care Coalition-Northwest Region in Washington state, where he works with wounded warriors and their families. He has also been awarded two Bronze Star Medals, a Purple Heart, and many other honors.

"This is the stuff of which heroes are made," Obama said of Petry's actions. "This is the strength, the devotion that makes our troops the pride of every American."

Heroes of the Vietnam Generation: By James Webb

2011-07-12T10:30:00.000-07:00

James Webb, of course, one of the current Senators from Virginia, a the former Secretary of the Navy who was awarded the Navy Cross, Silver Star, and Bronze Star medals for heroism as a Marine in Vietnam. This is his words:

The rapidly disappearing cohort of Americans that endured the Great Depression and then fought World War II is receiving quite a send-off from the leading lights of the so-called 60's generation. Tom Brokaw has published two oral histories of "The Greatest Generation" that feature ordinary people doing their duty and suggest that such conduct was historically unique.

Chris Matthews of "Hardball" is fond of writing columns praising the Navy service of his father while castigating his own baby boomer generation for its alleged softness and lack of struggle. William Bennett gave a startling condescending speech at the Naval Academy a few years ago comparing the heroism of the "D-Day Generation" to the drugs-and-sex nihilism of the " Woodstock Generation." And Steve n Spielberg, in promoting his film "Saving Private Ryan," was careful to justify his portrayals of soldiers in action based on the supposedly unique nature of World War II.

An irony is at work here. Lest we forget, the World War II generation now being lionized also brought us the Vietnam War, a conflict which today ' s most conspicuous voices by and large opposed, and in which few of them served. The "best and brightest" of the Vietnam age group once made headlines by castigating their parents for bringing about the war in which they would not fight, which has become the war they refuse to remember.

Pundits back then invented a term for this animus: the "generation gap." Long, plaintive articles and even books were written examining its manifestations. Campus leaders, who claimed precocious wisdom through the magical process of reading a few controversial books, urged fellow baby boomers not to trust anyone over 30. Their elders who had survived the Depression and fought the largest war in history were looked down upon as shallow, materialistic, and out of touch.

Those of us who grew up, on the other side of the picket line from that era ' s counter-culture can't help but feel a little leery of this sudden gush of appreciation for our elders from the leading lights of the old counter-culture. Then and now, the national conversation has proceeded from the dubious assumption that those who came of age during Vietnam are a unified generation in the same sense as their parents were, and thus are capable of being spoken for through these fickle elites.

In truth, the "Vietnam generation" is a misnomer. Those who came of age during that war are permanently divided by different reactions to a whole range of counter-cultural agendas, and nothing divides them more deeply than the personal ramifications of the war itself. The sizable portion of the Vietnam age group who declined to support the counter-cultural agenda, and especially the men and women who opted to serve in the military during the Vietnam War, are quite different from their peers who for decades have claimed to speak for them. In fact, they are much like the World War II generation itself. For them, Woodstock was a side show, college protestors were spoiled brats who would have benefited from having to work a few jobs in order to pay their tuition, and Vietnam represented not an intellectual exercise in draft avoidance, or protest marches but a battlefield that was just as brutal as those their fathers faced in World War II and Korea.

Few who served during Vietnam ever complained of a generation gap. The men who fought World War II were their heroes and role models. They honored their father's service by emulating it, and largely agreed with their father's wisdom in attempting to stop Communism's reach in Southeast Asia.

The most accurate poll of their attitudes (Harris, 1980) showed that 91 percent were glad they'd served their country, 74 percent enjoyed their time in the service, and 89 percent agreed with the statement that "our troops were asked to fight in a war which our political leaders in Washington would not let them win." And most importantly, the castigation they received upon returning home was not from the World War II generation, but from the very elites in their age group who supposedly spoke for them.

Nine million men served in the military during Vietnam War, three million of whom went to the Vietnam Theater. Contrary to popular mythology, two-thirds of these were volunteers, and 73 percent of those who died were volunteers. While some attention has been paid recently to the plight of our prisoners of war, most of whom were pilots; there has been little recognition of how brutal the war was for those who fought it on the ground.

Dropped onto the enemy's terrain 12,000 miles away from home, America's citizen-soldiers performed with a tenacity and quality that may never be truly understood. Those who believe the war was fought incompletely on a tactical level should consider Hanoi's recent admission that 1.4 million of its soldiers died on the battlefield, compared to 58,000 total U.S. dead.

*** Those who believe that it was a "dirty little war" where the bombs did all the work might contemplate that is was the most costly war the U.S. Marine Corps has ever fought - five times as many dead as World War I, three times as many dead as in Korea, and more total killed and wounded than in all of World War II. ***

Significantly, these sacrifices were being made at a time the United States was deeply divided over our effort in Vietnam . The baby-boom generation had cracked apart along class lines as America ' s young men were making difficult, life-or-death choices about serving. The better academic institutions became focal points for vitriolic protest against the war, with few of their graduates going into the military. Harvard College , which had lost 691 alumni in World War II, lost a total of 12 men in Vietnam from the classes of 1962 through 1972 combined. Those classes at Princeton lost six, at MIT two. The media turned ever more hostile. And frequently the reward for a young man ' s having gone through the trauma of combat was to be greeted by his peers with studied indifference of outright hostility.

What is a hero? My heroes are the young men who faced the issues of war and possible death, and then weighed those concerns against obligations to their country. Citizen-soldiers who interrupted their personal and professional lives at their most formative stage, in the timeless phrase of the Confederate Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery, "not for fame of reward, not for place or for rank, but in simple obedience to duty, as they understood it." Who suffered loneliness, disease, and wounds with an often-contagious élan. And who deserve a far better place in history than that now offered them by the so-called spokesman of our so-called generation.

Mr. Brokaw, Mr. Matthews, Mr. Bennett, Mr. Spielberg, meet my Marines. 1969 was an odd year to be in Vietnam. Second only to 1968 in terms of American casualties, it was the year made famous by Hamburger Hill, as well as the gut-wrenching Life cover story showing pictures of 242 Americans who had been killed in one average week of fighting. Back home, it was the year of Woodstock , and of numerous anti-war rallies that culminated in the Moratorium March on Washington. The My Lai massacre hit the papers and was seized upon by the anti-war movement as the emblematic moment of the war. Lyndon Johnson left Washington in utter humiliation.

Richard Nixon entered the scene, destined for an even worse fate. In the An Hoa Basin southwest of Danang, the Fifth Marine Regiment was in its third year of continuous combat operations. Combat is an unpredictable and inexact environment, but we were well led. As a rifle platoon and company commander, I served under a succession of three regimental commanders who had cut their teeth in World War II, and four different battalion commanders, three of whom had seen combat in Korea. The company commanders were typically captains on their second combat tour in Vietnam, or young first lieutenants like myself who were given companies after many months of "bush time" as platoon commanders in the Basin's tough and unforgiving environs.

The Basin was one of the most heavily contested areas in Vietnam, its torn, cratered earth offering every sort of wartime possibility. In the mountains just to the west, not far from the Ho Chi Minh Trail, the North Vietnamese Army operated an infantry division from an area called Base Area 112. In the valleys of the Basin, main-force Viet Cong battalions whose ranks were 80 percent North Vietnamese Army regulars moved against the Americans every day. Local Viet Cong units sniped and harassed. Ridgelines and paddy dikes were laced with sophisticated booby traps of every size, from a hand grenade to a 250-pound bomb. The villages sat in the rice paddies and tree lines like individual fortresses, crisscrossed with the trenches and spider holes, their homes sporting bunkers capable of surviving direct hits from large-caliber artillery shells. The Viet Cong infrastructure was intricate and permeating. Except for the old and the very young, villagers who did not side with the Communists had either been killed or driven out to the government controlled enclaves near Danang.

In the rifle companies, we spent the endless months patrolling ridgelines and villages and mountains, far away from any notion of tents, barbed wire, hot food, or electricity. Luxuries were limited to what would fit inside one's pack, which after a few "humps" usually boiled down to letter -writing material, towel, soap, toothbrush, poncho liner, and a small transistor radio.

We moved through the boiling heat with 60 pounds of weapons and gear, causing a typical Marine to drop 20 percent of his body weight while in the bush. When we stopped we dug chest-deep fighting holes and slit trenches for toilets. We slept on the ground under makeshift poncho hootches, and when it rained we usually took our hootches down because wet ponchos shined under illumination flares, making great targets. Sleep itself was fitful, never more than an hour or two at a stretch for months at a time as we mixed daytime patrolling with night-time ambushes, listening posts, foxhole duty, and radio watches. Ringworm, hookworm, malaria, and dysentery were common, as was trench foot when the monsoons came. Respite was rotating back to the mud-filled regimental combat base at An Hoa for four or five days, where rocket and mortar attacks were frequent and our troops manned defensive bunkers at night. Which makes it kind of hard to get excited about tales of Woodstock , or camping at the Vineyard during summer break.

We had been told while training that Marine officers in the rifle companies had an 85 percent probability of being killed or wounded, and the experience of "Dying Delta," as our company was known, bore that out. Of the officers in the bush when I arrived, our company commander was wounded, the weapons platoon commander wounded, the first platoon commander was killed, the second platoon commander was wounded twice, and I, commanding the third platoons fared no better. Two of my original three-squad leaders were killed, and the third shot in the stomach. My platoon sergeant was severely wounded, as was my right guide. By the time I left, my platoon I had gone through six radio operators, five of them casualties.

These figures were hardly unique; in fact, they were typical. Many other units; for instance, those who fought the hill battles around Khe Sanh, or were with the famed Walking Dead of the Ninth Marine Regiment, or were in the battle of Hue City or at Dai Do, had it far worse.

When I remember those days and the very young men who spent them with me, I am continually amazed, for these were mostly recent civilians barely out of high school, called up from the cities and the farms to do their year in hell and then return. Visions haunt me every day, not of the nightmares of war but of the steady consistency with which my Marines faced their responsibilities, and of how uncomplaining most of them were in the face of constant danger. The salty, battle-hardened 20-year-olds teaching green 19-year-olds the intricate lessons of the hostile battlefield. The unerring skill of the young squad leaders as we moved through unfamiliar villages and weed-choked trails in the black of night. The quick certainty when a fellow Marine was wounded and needed help. Their willingness to risk their lives to save other Marines in peril. To this day it stuns me that their own countrymen have so completely missed the story of their service, lost in the bitter confusion of the war itself.

Like every military unit throughout history we had occasional laggards, cowards, and complainers. But in the aggregate, these Marines were the finest people I have ever been around. It has been my privilege to keep up with many of them over the years since we all came home. One finds in them very little bitterness about the war in which they fought. The most common regret, almost to a man, is that they were not able to do more for each other and for the people they came to help.

It would be redundant to say that I would trust my life to these men. Because I already have, in more ways than I can ever recount. I am alive today because of their quiet, unaffected heroism. Such valor epitomizes the conduct of Americans at war from the first days of our existence. That the boomer elites can canonize this sort of conduct in our fathers' generation while ignoring it in our own is more than simple oversight. It is a conscious, continuing travesty.

Rescue of Roger Locher

2011-07-08T03:32:00.000-07:00

USAF Brig. Gen (ret) Steve Ritchie tells the amazing story of the rescue of downed pilot Roger Locher in Vietnam in 1972. A brillant speaker, Gen Ritchie correlates the gigantic rescue effort to the value that we as Americans place on individuals and necessarily so on freedom.

In 1972 Ritchie volunteered for his second tour in Southeast Asia and was assigned to the 432nd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing at Udorn, Thailand. Flying an F-4D with the famous 555th ("Triple Nickel") Tactical Fighter Squadron, he became the only Air Force jet ace by downing a MiG-21 on May 10, another on May 31, two on July 8 and his last on Aug. 28.

After completing 339 combat missions totaling more than 800 flying hours, Ritchie returned as one of the most highly decorated pilots of the war, having received the Air Force Cross, four Silver Stars, 10 Distinguished Flying Crosses and 25 Air Medals.

His combat expertise brought him the 1972 "Mackay Trophy" for the most significant Air Force mission of the year (along with Capts. Jeff Feinstein and Charles DeBellevue), the Air Force Academy's 1972 Colonel James Jabara Award for Airmanship, and the 1972 Armed Forces Award, presented by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. In 1973 he was selected as one of the "Outstanding Young Men of America," and in 1974 he received the Eugene Zuckert Award from the Civil Air Patrol.

Chaplains Corner - June 2011

2011-07-07T22:49:00.000-07:00

This month I want to share with you what most Christians believe which is expressed in the historical Apostles' Creed, which follows:

I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into hell; the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from there He shall come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints;
the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion
of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen.

Chaplain (LTC) John Szilvasy, Retired

Chapter Meeting Notes - 18 June 2011

2011-07-05T10:39:00.000-07:00

Photo Above (L to R): Vern Walden, Pete Peral, Bill Snider, Chris Lewis, Robert Teagle and Lee Walker.

6th Annual John McLaughlin Memorial Golf Tournament: Butterfield Trails Golf Course will set everything up the morning of the tournament, Friday, 16 September. Sign up on a form or go to www.butterfieldtrailgolf.com

Jerry Rainey Scholarship: Nominees must be from El Paso/Las Cruces area. Presentations will be in August at our normal monthly meeting. Greg Brown received nominations, deadline was 30 June.

SFCA 46 Wounded Warrior Cruise – Pete sent the ticket stubbs and the money to SFCA 46. The Chapter that sells the most tickets receives a free cruise and Pete hopes to win so we can use it as a prize at the next Golf Tournament.

Rest and Relaxation (R&R) Center FT Bliss: There are 30 AD Soldiers in the group and they need money for arts & crafts. Group meets Wednesday’s 0800-1130. Chapter voted to give them $200 a month until the end of the year.

President Pete’s Oval Office: Another great meeting this month. I’m pleased to report that Jerry Montoya’s surgery went very well and he’s back at home recovering. I’d also like to say congratulations to China Boys son for his promotion to COL and also congratulations to the Jefferson family and their new grandson. At the June meeting our “official” CH9 coin was voted on and thanks to Steve F, Mike’s motto of “Hard Times Don’t Last, But Hard Men Do” is inscribed on it which is a deserving tribute to Mike Jefferson and inspiration to his new grandson.

Joshua Chamberlain - Profile in Leadership

2011-07-04T16:12:00.000-07:00

Joshua Chamberlain Was A Tower Of Union Force

An excerpt from an article entitled: "Gut It Out: His Little Round Top rush riddled the rebels" by Jason Ma, INVESTOR'S BUSINESS DAILY

Honor and genius converged in Joshua Chamberlain to produce one of the unlikeliest heroes of the Civil War. A professor of languages at Bowdoin College in Maine, he gave up a comfortable life in academia to fight in what would be the bloodiest war in U.S. history — and to battle with unusual distinction at Gettysburg 148 years ago this week. “He truly did serve with distinction throughout the war,” said Glenn LaFantasie, a professor of Civil War history at Western Kentucky University.

Chamberlain (1828-1914) was said to be fluent in 10 languages, including Arabic, Hebrew and Syriac, an Aramaic dialect. As the academic year wound down in the summer of 1862, he weighed an offer from Bowdoin to send him to Europe , where he could use his Greek, Latin, French, Italian, German and Spanish. But with the war dragging on and casualties rising, he offered his services to Maine’s governor. Chamberlain made it clear he thought volunteers needed to step forward to fight. He also suggested he could help recruit his former students. “I fear, this war, so costly of blood and treasure, will not cease until the men of the North are willing to leave good positions, and sacrifice the dearest personal interests, to rescue our country from desolation, and defend the national existence against treachery at home and jeopardy abroad,” he wrote in a July 1862 letter to the governor. “This war
must be ended, with a swift and strong hand; and every man ought to come forward and ask to be placed at his proper post.”

The transition from college professor to soldier seemed to come easily. Within a year of his enlistment, Chamberlain was promoted to colonel, in command of the 20th Maine Regiment. Chamberlain is perhaps best known for his exploits in the southern Pennsylvania town, and in 1893 received the Medal of Honor for preventing a key hill from falling into Confederate hands. From the Union’s left flank at Little Round Top, the 20th Maine held off repeated attacks from the 15th Alabama on July 2, 1863.

To take a tougher defensive stance, Chamberlain ordered his men to array themselves into an inverted V, a maneuver called “refusing the line.” Reshuffling his troops in the thick of combat, without opening a gap in his lines, was daunting, especially for someone with minimal military experience leading troops who were hardly battle tested.

But the Mainers’ numbers were growing thinner, and their ammunition was running out. Seeing that his troops couldn’t defend against another assault, Chamberlain chose to go on the offense and ordered a bayonet charge. His men took the rebels by surprise and quickly overran them.

While Chamberlain’s heroics at Gettysburg grab the most attention among Civil War followers, he saw even more combat during the Siege of Petersburg from the summer of 1864 to the spring of 1865. Just south of the Confederate capital Richmond, Va., The Siege of Petersburg became the scene of grinding trench warfare as the South desperately tried to hold off defeat. It was there that Chamberlain’s habit of leading from the front nearly got him killed. Despite being a brigade commander, he continued to put himself in danger, and his troops revered him for it.

During a battle on June 18, 1864, Chamberlain was shot through the hip. Instead of falling, he drew his sword and propped himself up to continue rallying his men. After several minutes, he collapsed from blood loss. He was expected to die, and Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant gave him a battlefield promotion to brigadier general. Somehow he survived, then took command of the 1st Brigade, 1st Division, V Corps. Ready for the knockout blow, he led an attack in March 1865 on a rebel fortification.

Chamberlain was picked to accept the official Confederate surrender at Appomattox Court House on April 12, 1865. It was a high honor and an indication of how much
respect his fellow officers had for him. By then, he had been wounded six times and had the rank of brevet major general, a special authorization to wear a second star. As the defeated filed past the victors to surrender their weapons, Chamberlain ordered his men to carry arms — a gesture where the musket is held by the right hand as though marching and rendering a salute of respect — to honor what he later called the “embodiment of manhood” passing before him. “Men whom neither toils and sufferings, nor the fact of death, nor disaster, nor hopelessness could bend from their resolve,” he wrote in his memoirs. For his magnanimous behavior that day and subsequent admiration for his former adversaries, Chamberlain was revered almost as much in the South as he was in the North,

After the war, Chamberlain thought about staying in uniform, but decided to leave
because he would’ve lost his rank in a downsized Army, LaFantasie says. Chamberlin continued to correspond with wartime comrades. He missed the military, but tried his hand in politics, serving four one-year terms as Maine ’s Republican governor from 1867 to 1871, and although was not highly regarded as a Governor, Chamberlain stayed popular with the public as lawmakers resented the rigidity that served him well in the war.

After leaving office, he returned to Bowdoin to serve as its president from 1871 to 1883. He saw himself as a reformer and modernized the curriculum with new science and engineering courses. Chamberlain also tried to make military drill mandatory among the students, but they refused and boycotted it. Ever the commander, he expelled them. He later offered them a chance to return, as long as they performed drill. All but three came back. He once described his experience as president “about the most thankless, wearing and wasteful life that can be undertaken.”

Afterward, Chamberlain handled other public jobs, including commander of Maine ’s
state militia. All the while, he never gave up on returning to combat. Despite lingering pain from his Civil War wounds, he tried to volunteer for the Spanish-American War in 1898 at almost age 70, but was rejected. In 1914, he finally succumbed to his wounds and died.

Indeed, his Confederate counterpart at Appomattox called him “one of the knightliest soldiers of the Federal Army.”

One of the best books you can ever read is "Killer Angels" by Michael Shaara, detailing Gettysburg and Joshua Chamberlain's role.

New Chapter IX Coin Design

2011-06-27T14:40:00.001-07:00

Front of the Coin

Back of the Coin

Two Green Berets Get Silver Star

2011-06-21T10:12:00.000-07:00

From Stars and Stripes, June 14, 2011, by John Vandiver

STUTTGART, Germany -- Two U.S Army Green Berets were recognized with Silver Stars during a ceremony on Monday in Stuttgart, where 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group troops were honored for heroic actions on the battlefield in Afghanistan.

During the ceremony at Patch Barracks, which included a special videotaped message from the commander of the Afghanistan mission, Gen. David Petraeus, 12 other servicemembers received Bronze Stars with the “V” device for valor. Two additional Soldiers received the Army Commendation Medal with “V” device.

Master Sgt. William J. Dickinson was awarded the Silver Star for leading a special operations team that thwarted an attack on Bagram Air Base on May 19, 2010, when insurgents dressed as American Soldiers stormed the base.
Staff Sergeant Adam B. Dorner was awarded the Silver Star for leading a team of Green Berets and Afghan National Security Forces in response to an ambush in Logar province in 2010. Dorner ran more than 150 meters through open terrain to reach his unit’s mortar system to return fire on the enemy at “grave personal risk.”

“Matchless courage, relentless commitment … and, of course, quiet but very impressive professionalism,” said Petraeus, in his videotaped message from Afghanistan , of the 16 servicemembers who were recognized. “Their courage not only saved lives, but also inspired, and continues to inspire all of us here.”

Master Sgt. William J. Dickinson:
On May 19, 2010, Dickinson and his five-man special operations team were getting ready for bed in the early morning hours at Bagram Airfield when explosions reverberated around the north end of the base. Dickinson immediately mobilized, according to a unit account of the events.

He and the other men gathered their gear and moved toward the sound of fire, exposed to enemy rocket-propelled grenades. Special Operations Task Force 10 pressed forward, killing three insurgents who had breached the outer perimeter wall of the base, according to the unit account. Dickinson and two other team members cleared through to the outer perimeter wall, evading thrown grenades.

Countering with their own grenades, Dickinson and his team secured their position and observed that the three insurgents from their first engagement were dressed in the U.S. Army Combat Uniform and equipped with suicide vests, hand grenades, RPGs and AK-47 assault rifles.

“Though exposed to enemy observation, MSG Dickinson led four other team members over the wall,” according to the unit account. “Four additional deceased insurgents were identified immediately on the other side. Another, still living, tried to arm his suicide vest and was quickly neutralized by MSG Dickinson and members of the HQ element.”
Meanwhile, 20 more insurgents were massing 800 yards southwest of Dickinson ’s position. Dickinson ’s five-man team and eight volunteers assembled to hunt down the enemy.

“MSG Dickinson fearlessly took point in the front, skirting the (base) perimeter to close with and engage the assaulting enemy,” the unit stated.

During the patrol, one team member stepped on a land mine and was severely injured. Dickinson ran 20 yards from the front of the patrol to deliver first aid. After helping to get the injured Soldier back over the wall and out of harm’s way, Dickinson grabbed a mine detector from an engineer on the perimeter, scaled the wall a final time and cleared a path for the four patrol members still in harm’s way. In the end, eight insurgents were killed and the synchronized assault on Bagram was thwarted.

Staff Sergeant Adam B. Dorner:
On Aug. 17, 2010, Dorner’s team of Green Berets was conducting route reconnaissance in Logar province with 20 Afghan National Security Forces members when insurgents launched a complex ambush, using roadside bombs, mortars, rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire, according to the unit account.

Dorner, who was dismounted at the front of the convoy, returned fire despite lack of cover until his weapon malfunctioned. Dorner then ran more than 150 yards through open terrain to reach his unit’s 60mm mortar system, despite RPG rounds detonating within 30 yards of his location. He took hold of the mortar and delivered 10 rounds on the insurgent positions, according to the account.

Dorner then led a maneuver element consisting of seven Afghans and three Soldiers from his Special Operations Task Unit 0116 and “fearlessly took point of his element and led a bold assault across 300 meters of mostly open terrain and dislodged the enemy from their established position,” the unit account of the events stated.

Dorner accepted “grave personal risk” at four separate stages of the firefight.
“His tenacity and leadership were the vital ingredients in finally ending the engagement, directly enabling the safe return of all U.S. and ANSF service members,” the unit account stated.

Book - Secret Soldiers of the Second Army

2011-06-14T13:50:00.000-07:00

SGM (ret) Les Chapman has written a book entitled "Secret Soldiers of the Second Army".

About the Book
The book starts out picturing a young man who foolishly wants to go to war where he envision’s himself receiving all these high class medals for heroism but never once taking into account what it is going to take physically and mentally to get those medals.

Come walk with the author and his brothers of the sword through the dark, humid, unforgiving jungles of Vietnam and experience the death, destruction, and mental sacrificial anguish they had to endure.

Come see why you fear being alone in the denseness of a jungle or a forest that you have never entered before. Feel the heat of the Asian jungle floor intermixed with the leaches, ants, mosquitoes, snakes and humans searching you out only to destroy you at any cost.

You see our author starts out innocently enough but soon finds out that war is not only a physical hardship demanding its pounds of flesh, but also is a horrendous mental agonizing hazard from which there is only one means of escape and/or retreat. That means to an end is death. Yes the author and his brothers of the sword will take their heroic missions and sacrificial allegiances to the grave with them. But, the real tragedy of it all is no one really cares about them in the first place. For they were and still are the “Secret Soldiers of the Second Army” willing to go anywhere, any time, to do the impossible for the ungrateful.

About the Author
Les Chapman joined the Army in August of 1966; underwent Special Forces training and subsequently spend four tours in Vietnam, one with Company C, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) then three tours with Military Assistance Command Vietnam-Studies and Observations Group - Command and Control North (MACV-SOG-CCN) running deep penetration reconnaissance missions and ultimately flying code name Covey (Forward Air Controller).

SGM (ret) Chapman was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for Gallantry in action, the Silver Star for Valor, five Bronze Stars w/V for Valor, four Army Commendation Medals w/V for Valor, eight Air Medals w/V for Valor, Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm, and other service awards.
From 1966 to 1987 the Author served faithfully in the United States Army.

Les has pledged to contribute a percentage of the profits from the sale of each of his books to the SOA to support all SOA programs, e.g., SOA General Operational Fund; SOA George C. Morton Memorial Scholarship Program; SOA Operation “Brightlight” Program; SOA Personal Video History Project.

Costs:

"Hard Cover”: $30. + $1.80 sales tax, + Shipping. (Figure $35.)

“Soft Cover” : $20. + $1.20 sales tax, + Shipping. (Figure $25.)

POC:
Leslie A. Chapman
241 Harvest Run
Idaho Falls, Idaho 83404-7939
(208) 522-3639
(208) 589-3253
csmleschapman@msn.com

President Reagan's speech at Point du hoc - June 6, 1984

2011-06-08T08:13:00.000-07:00

In 1984 President Ronald Reagan and allied leaders attending the G-7 Economic Summit left London and gathered in Normandy to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the D-Day invasion, the difficult but eventually successful battle that turned the tide of the war in Europe.

President Reagan gave two extraordinarily moving speeches that day, one at Omaha Beach with President Francois Mitterand, and another, more remembered, at Point du Hoc--the cliffs the Rangers scaled in the face of German artillery firing directly down on them. This was a U.S. only ceremony, and many of the Rangers who were in that assault were on hand to hear the President that day.

Jerry Rainey Scholarship

2011-06-07T12:51:00.000-07:00

Special Forces Chapter IX provides two $500.00 scholarships for two college students annually and we plan on picking the recipients in July and awarding in August this year. Please follow this link for more information; http://sfa9.org/SFA9-JRMS.htm
The link will state that the deadline is 20 May, but we have extended the deadline to 30 June 2011.

Go here for the on-line application

Vietnam, 1971 - The Stand of RT Kansas

2011-06-07T11:50:00.000-07:00

During a POW Snatch mission near Khe Sanh in early August 1971, 2000 NVA regulars surrounded a team of 6 Special Forces soldiers and 8 Montagnards. They sustained 9 KIA in this fight, six of which were Montagnards. The battle lasted 30 minutes RT Kansas killed 185 NVA.

1LT Loren Hagen earned the Army's last Medal of Honor (MOH) of the war during this action, repeatedly exposing himself to enemy fire and rallying the team in repelling NVA onslaughts. Crawling under fire to rescue team mebers trapped in a bunker LT Hagen is killed.

SGT Tony Anderson earned the Distinguished Service Crosses (DSC's) that day. SSG William Queen were directly responsible for repelling repeated NVA assaults. Staff Sergeant Oran Bingham, Sergeant Bruce Berg, Sergeant Bill Queen and Sergeant William Rimondi were all awarded the Silver Star, Berg and Bingham posthumously.

RT Kansas last stand was remarkable in the sheer numbers of NVA troops they faced. During the Alamo , Texians were faced with 16 to 1 odds; during Custer's Last Stand similar odds existed........RT Kansas faced odds of over 107 to 1.

For the whole story please go to: Last Stand of RT Kansas

http://www.macvsog.cc/the_last_stand_of_rt_kansas.htm

Special Forces Soldiers die in Afghanistan

2011-06-05T22:45:00.000-07:00

From the U.S. Army Special Forces Command Public Affairs Office

FORT BRAGG, N.C. (USASOC News Service, June 1, 2011) – Three Green Berets died May 29 while on a mounted patrol when the vehicle they were traveling in struck an IED in the Wardak Province, Afghanistan.

Capt. Joseph W. Schultz, 36, Staff Sgt. Martin Apolinar, 28, and Sgt. Aaron Blasjo, 25, died from wounds sustained in the explosion. Schultz and Apolinar were assigned to Company C, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), while Blasjo is a part of the Group Support Battalion within 3rd Special Forces Group, which is headquartered at Fort Bragg , N.C.

All three Special Forces Soldiers were deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, and had previously deployed to Operation Iraq Freedom, in Iraq.

Retirees - Who Will Receive Your Final Check?

2011-06-02T13:12:00.000-07:00

Retired pay earned but not paid in the final month of your life goes to whoever is listed as your Arrears of Pay (AOP) beneficiary. Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) will also contact this person for help with closing your account.

You can choose anyone, from family members to friends to associates, to be your AOP beneficiary. But if you don't designate someone, it could cause undue stress and financial hardship for your survivors during an already difficult time. It can take many months to locate your survivors, identify who is legally entitled to your pay, and then make the payment.

Fortunately, this situation is easy to prevent. You can establish or change your beneficiary at any time.

HOW TO DESIGNATE OR CHANGE A BENEFICIARY

To designate or change your Arrears of Pay (AOP) beneficiary, all you have to do is follow these simple steps:

1. Complete a Designation of Beneficiary Information form (DD 2894). You can find this form at www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/infomgt/forms/eforms/dd2894.pdf.

2. Sign and date the form. (Unsigned and undated forms will not be processed.)

3. Mail or fax the form to:

DFAS U.S. Military Retired Pay
P.O. Box 7130
London, KY 40742-7130

Fax: 800-469-6559

It is vital to notify DFAS of any changes in your AOP beneficiary's contact information. Otherwise all correspondence will be sent to the wrong address, further delaying closure of your account. Please use the steps above to notify DFAS if your beneficiaries name or contact information changes.

For more information about AOP, please visit http://www.dfas.mil/dfas/retiredmilitary/provide/aop.html

Memorial Day 2011

2011-05-30T06:52:00.000-07:00

May everyone get a chance, really a honor, to visit the Arlington National Cemetery. Truly humbling and very challenging to keep a dry eye.

The Old Guard and their perpetual honor of and at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier will raise goose bumps on the most hardened souls among us.

Today we honor those who have sacrificed life or limb in defense of this Country and the ideals for which the United States stands for.

Chaplain's Corner - May 2011

2011-05-29T14:31:00.000-07:00

The funeral of a uniformed person usually has a bagpiper playing "Amazing Grace" which is a Christian hymn with the words written by John Newton, the Captain of a slave ship who realized the sinful work that was his occupation, confessed his sins to God, accepted Jesus Christ (Messiah) as his personal Savior and Lord and changed his life completely. The words to 'Amazing Grace" reveal the spiritual journey of John Newton from sinner to saved follower of Jesus Christ. God's grace means God's forgiving love freely given to those who confess Jesus as their Savior and Lord. The words of "Amazing Grace" are expressed in the following four short verses.

1. Amazing Grace! How sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, was blind, but now I see.

2. 'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, and grace my fears relieved; how precious did that grace appear the hour I first believed!

3. Thro' many dangers, toils, and snares, I have already come; 'Tis grace has brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead my home.

4. When we've been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun, we've no less days to sing God's than we first begun.

Is now the time to come to Jesus?

John Szilvasy, Chapter Chaplain, SFA Chapter IX

Chapter Meeting Notes - 21 May 2011

2011-05-28T15:35:00.000-07:00

Segura-McDonald VFW Building is still up for sale and the Chapter is looking at purchasing it for our Chapter team house. Committee is: Pete, Tom, Rod, Al and Doc Alcon.

SFA Chapter 46 Wounded Warrior Cruise – Pete is selling tickets. $2 each or 6 for $10 – The Chapter that sells the most tickets receives a free cruise and Pete hopes to win so we can use it as a prize at the next Golf Tournament. The 46SFCA is letting us select a wounded warrior to go on the cruise. We will make a decision at the next meeting 18 June 2011. Members should send me their nomination with a write-up on why they nominate that Wounded Warrior.

Billy Waugh’s book “Isaac Camacho, an American Hero” is still available. Website http://www.isaaccamachoamericanhero.com

6th Annual John McLaughlin Memorial Golf Tournament: Al and Ike Chair/Co-chair. Golf Committee meetings at noon, just before the SFA 9 general meeting. Deposit has been made for Butterfield Golf Course. Tournament will be Friday, 16 September.

Rest and Relaxation (R&R) Center Fort Bliss: There are 30 AD Soldiers in the group and they need money for arts & crafts. Group meets Tuesday’s 0830-1130.

Jerry Rainey Scholarship: As usual, presentations will be in August at our normal monthly meeting. Greg Brown will get guidance on the nomination process out soon. We will email applications.

SFA Chapter 9 Web Page and Blogspot: Meeting will be held just before June's regular Chapter meeting.

Changes to the SFQC

2011-05-27T13:40:00.000-07:00

Interesting Changes to SFQC, especially the SF Medic Course. USAJFKSWC&S are also making significant improvements to other phases of the SFQC, most notably:

• Phase I — two-week orientation: We have revamped the orientation phase to better prepare students and their families for entry into ARSOF, to introduce them to our lineage and core missions, and to define our eight core attributes and expected standards.

• Phase II — language training: In addition to the excellent language, culture and regional orientation our students receive during this longest phase of their training, we have implemented more stringent physical standards that students must pass before they complete the phase. Events include the Army Physical Fitness Test, a 50-meter swim, a five-mile run, a 12-mile rucksack march, pull-ups, a 30-foot rope climb, rifle marksmanship and land navigation. These "hard" standards will ensure that we identify those Soldiers who lack the commitment and attributes necessary for success in the SFQC.

• Phase III — tactical combat skills, or TCS: This phase, formerly referred to as small-unit tactics, has been revamped into the more comprehensive TCS phase, which incorporates SF common tasks; small-unit tactics; advanced marksmanship; urban operations; call for fire; sensitive site exploitation; the military decision-making process; and survival, evasion, resistance and escape.

• SF medics: Lengthening the Special Operations Combat Medic, or SOCM, Course to 36 weeks. SF medical-sergeant candidates will take the SOCM Course before beginning language training (Phase II) of the SFQC. They will thus begin the SFQC as fully trained combat medics, qualified to provide field medical care for their student detachment during training and exercises.
During Phase IV, the MOS phase of training, they will take an additional 14 weeks of training to qualify them as SF medical NCOs. This will ultimately provide them with more than 50 weeks of medical training and keep them on-track with the other members of the SFQC student detachments, who also take 14 weeks of MOS training.

One final note: in order to build a force that is well-educated as well as professionally trained, we have developed a program to allow enlisted students in our three qualification courses to concurrently earn an associate’s degree. That means that upon graduation from the qualification courses, students will walk across the stage with an associate’s degree, which continues the process of lifelong learning. That degree can then be applied toward a bachelor’s from several other institutions such as Norwich University or North Carolina State University , that special-operations Soldiers can pursue (entirely online) while continuing to serve in their normal assignments.

Last fall, SWCS, in collaboration with the National Defense University , also began offering a fully accredited program for a master’s in strategic security studies that is open to ARSOF senior NCOs, warrant officers and officers who have a bachelor’s from a regionally accredited institution.

James Leslie Moreland - Lost at Lang Vei, Returns Home

2011-05-24T12:16:00.000-07:00

BRIERFIELD, ALABAMA. There ' s a spot marked in a small country graveyard near here for a long lost Green Beret. Now, after 43 years of uncertainty, the grave in Ashby Cemetery can be filled. Burial for James Leslie Moreland -- missing in action in Vietnam since Feb. 7, 1968 -- will be May 14 in this isolated cemetery off Bibb County 2, south of Montevallo. Moreland was born in Bessemer on Sept. 29, 1945, moved to California in high school and in 1965 went to Vietnam as a medic in the elite Army Special Forces.

The 22-year-old was presumed dead after a ferocious battle at Lang Vei in South Vietnam . But his body wasn ' t recovered or identified. Finding the body and securing an ID turned into a decades-long quest until last month, when DNA earlier submitted by five relatives matched remains found at Lang Vei.

"It was very emotional coming up on the 43rd anniversary," said Linda Brown, 62, the youngest of the five Moreland siblings. The family had all come to accept James was dead, but they persisted on finding his body, Brown said.

"I had never given up," said Brown, who lives in Washington state near sister Edna Anita LaMoine, 73. "I said I wouldn't care if they identified just one bone fragment so we could say, ' Yes, it is our brother. ' "

Unknown to the Moreland family at the time, a Christmas Day gift in 1972 to a 12-year-old girl added one more person to the long pursuit for answers. Kathy Strong of Walnut Creek , Calif. , remembers asking for an MIA bracelet because it was the cool thing to have at the time. Santa Claus brought a bracelet with the name: James Leslie Moreland.

Now 50, Strong became close to members of the Moreland family after her hometown newspaper, the Contra Costa Times, several years ago chronicled how she had worn the bracelet for decades and had grown increasingly interested in Moreland ' s story.

Strong plans to attend the upcoming burial in Alabama , where she said she will relinquish her bracelet to be buried with the remains.

"My promise was to keep it until he came home and then give it back," Strong said.

Moreland ' s commanding officer, Paul Longgrear, who is an ordained minister, will officiate the service.

Longgrear led a strike force unit, which included Moreland, to help defend a Special Forces camp near the Laotian border. The camp was a "thorn in the side of the North Vietnamese," Longgrear said, and on Feb. 6, 1968, it came under heavy attack from enemy tanks. He said he remembered Moreland being seriously wounded in the head as he went to fetch a machine gun in an open area, aiming to keep it out of enemy hands. In the ensuing explosions and subsequent takeover, some men escaped, some were captured, some were killed. Moreland ' s body was never recovered.

"He was a great guy -- a great looking kid with a lot of confidence," said Longg rear, who lives in Pine Mountain , Ga. "He had that swagger. Green Beret tend to be that way."

Moreland ' s early childhood years were spent in the Birmingham area and in Selma , his sisters said. He went to Lyman Ward Military Academy in Camp Hill in the eighth and ninth grades. The family moved to southern California in 1962, and Moreland became an all-county football player at Western High School in Anaheim, playing on the same team as Andy Messersmith, who went on to become a Major League baseball player. After graduation, Moreland attended Fullerton Junior College but ultimately followed his two older brothers ' footsteps into the military, albeit a different branch.

"I tried my best to get him to come to the Navy," chuckled retired Navy Seabee and older brother Robert D. Moreland, 75, of Lakeside , Calif. "But he liked to skydive."

When on June 5, 1978, the Army declared Moreland "presumed dead," his mother, Gladys Parks, organized a memorial service for him at Ashby Cemetery and dedicated a large granite marker in her son ' s memory. They played ' Ballad of the Green Beret ' and tears flowed, Brown remembered.

Moreland ' s mother died April 1, 2001, but she talked to The Birmingham News in 1978 about the memorial.

"I just felt this memorial was one way I can honor him," she said. "But to me he ' s not dead. If they could have ever found some trace of him to give me, some little something to prove they found him, I could accept it. ... May be someday I will."

Dorothy Moreland, 81, of Montevallo, who is widower of the oldest Moreland sibling, Roger, said it is sad Parks won ' t see this day. But there ' s some comfort to be taken, she supposes, in the burial arrangement putting Moreland next to the graves of his mother and father.

When they lay him to rest, "brother ' ll be back home between mommy and daddy," she said.

Video Thanks to World War II veterans

2011-05-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

This story is incredible. Send this touching two-minute video about World War II veterans to FIVE friends and family to remind them that every day alive in this great, free country is truly a bonus.

Let’s get 50,000 views for the video by Memorial Day (May 30th) to show these living heroes, one last time, just how grateful we are for their unbelievable sacrifice. The video is a trailer to a documentary that will come out in November. The more we can show interest in the trailer (i.e. views), the more Americans will get to see the film. Time is running out: 1,000 WWII vets die every day. We are free today because of these men and women. The least we can do is watch a web video and send it to five people. Let’s get this mission done!

Remembering Barry Sadler and the Ballad of the Green Beret

2011-05-11T14:04:00.000-07:00

Remembering Barry Sadler.....born in Carlsbad , New Mexico on November 1, 1940, died November 5, 1989 at age 49.

Sadler is most remembered for his famous song "The Ballad of the Green Beret". He served as a Green Beret medic and Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was severely wounded in the knee by a feces-covered punji stick while leading a patrol in the Central Highlands of Vietnam , southeast of Pleiku in May 1965.

Robin Moore, author of the novel The Green Berets, encouraged Barry Sadler in his recording of the song which became the title song for the movie "The Green Berets" starring John Wayne. The Ballad of the Green Berets actually reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for five consecutive weeks from March 5 to April 2, 1966, selling over one million copies,

Sadler later took to writing books. His "Casca" series centers on the title character, Casca Rufio Longinius who stabbed Christ during the crucifixion, and is cursed to remain a soldier eternally till the Second Coming. The series of novels takes Casca through to the 20th century. Sadler himself wrote only the first few, with the remainder of the original 22 books being farmed out by the publishers to other writers and issued under his name. Subsequent books have been written by different authors.

Enjoy the song,....you should be in the front leaning rest position during it's entirety!

Remembering Colonel Maggie (Martha Raye)

2011-05-10T15:37:00.000-07:00

We Old Timers in the Special Forces Community have the privilege and honor of remembering Maggie. Colonel Martha Raye, for the less privileged.

One Account of Col Maggie: I had the honor of closing the FOB2 Club two years in a row (67/68 and 68/69) with her, during our New Years Eve Celebration. The first time as a guest of the command, while on loan, during bad weather in our usual A/O. The second time as the First Sergeant of the Security Company, when we had to "rescue" Maggie from the 4th ID unit, near our Yard Camp.

The next encounter, which busted, was in 1971/72; when Maggie was making a "tour of the SF Posts". She was due in sometime in April, I think it was, and due to our history, I was "elected" to be her "escort" while she was in our A/O. However, that was the time when "Maggie" had, one of her medical attacks that took her life some time later.

Maggie was without a doubt one of the guys. Just, for your own safety, never get on the bad side of her, as did that Captain in Pleiku. She had no problem in "taking charge" in any given situation, that needed it. She was a Lady, One of the Guys, a Singer, and one of the best entertainers ever. Maggie was also One of Us, who wear the Green Beret, and as commented, she is the only female civilian to be buried in our Cemetery at Fort Bragg, NC, "Home of the Green Berets". "An' a Tip O' the Beret to Ya, Lady"

Another rememberance of Maggie:

Most of the old time entertainers were made out of a lot sterner stuff than today's crop of activists and whiners.

It was just before Thanksgiving '67 and we were ferrying dead and wounded from a large GRF west of Pleiku , Vietnam. We had run out of body bags by noon, so the Hook (CH-47 CHINOOK) was pretty rough in the back.

All of a sudden, we heard a 'take-charge' woman's voice in the rear. There was the singer and actress, Martha Raye, with a SF (Special Forces) beret and jungle fatigues, with subdued markings, helping the wounded into the Chinook,
and carrying the dead aboard. 'Maggie' had been visiting her SF 'heroes' out 'west'. We took off, short of fuel, and headed to the USAF hospital pad at Pleiku. As we all started unloading, our Captain said to Martha..
... "Ms Ray, with all these dead and wounded to process, there would not be time for your show!"

To all of our surprise, she pulled on her right collar and said....."Captain, see this eagle? I am a full 'Bird' Colonel in the US Army Reserve, and on this is a 'Caduceus' which means I am a Nurse, with a surgical specialty....now, take me to your wounded." He said, "yes ma'am.... Follow me."

Several times at the Army Field Hospital in Pleiku, she would 'cover' a surgical shift, giving a nurse a well-deserved break.

Chaplains Corner - April 2011

2011-04-26T08:40:00.000-07:00

On the recent Christian Holy Day of Easter, Christians celebrated the resurrection of Jesus from the Dead and then appeared to his disciples. Christians understand that with the resurrection of Jesus, God accepted the Christ's sacrificial death as a substitute payment to enable God to forgive our sins that separated us from God.. .Now God can forgive our confessed sins, restore us to a right relationship with Him, and give us the gift of the Holy Spirit to guide and protect us until God calls us home or Christ returns. God's plan for our salvation is given and received solely by faith alone and is clearly revealed in the inspired Word of God in the Bible.

Sadly, many have pushed God to the side as irrelevant and are relying on their own strengths to cope with an evil people and world with a grade school understanding of God. Sadly, many have never come to a saving faith in Jesus Christ. Many have rejected their former faith in Jesus Christ and are living a miserable life without God to help them defeat the forces of evil that manifest themselves in many disguise.. Who can you trust to tell you the truth about God and life? My answer is that I trust my God to guide me with His absolute truths and the promise of eternal life with God in heaven.. God has proven to me that He is trustworthy and faithful by helping me in times of despair and danger. I joyfully proclaim that I trust God's revelation of Himself in the Bible. The God who was revealed by Jesus Christ in the Bible is worthy of your trust.

I urge you to renew your dormant Christian faith or come to faith in Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord. Then with the assistance of the Holy Spirit, the Bible, and the Church, you will be living a purposeful life that is guided by trusting God and accepting the promise of an eternal life in a perfect heaven. Try it and you won't be disappointed.

Chaplain (LTC) John Szilvasy

Chapter Meeting Notes - 16 April 2011

2011-04-26T08:34:00.000-07:00

New Chapter Coin design was considered:

6th Annual John McLaughlin Memorial Golf Tournament: Al and Ike Chair/Co-chair. Deposit has been made for Butterfield Golf Course. Tournament will be Friday, 16 September. Flier and sponsor/team sign-up will be out soon. Golf Committee meetings begin in May at noon, just before the SFA 9 general meeting.

Segura-McDonald VFW Building is still up for sale and we had more discussion about making that our Team House. Committee: Pete, Jerry Campos, Tony, Gus, Dr. Alarcon, Tom, Rod, Kirk and Sam. Al will talk with Security Federal.

22nd Annual Bataan Death was conducted 27 March. Several members of SFA Chapter IX and SFA 80 assisted with support. Tony Beltran, Steve & Monica Franzoni marched in the event. Working the water point with SFA 80 included Rod Raulston, Burch Moore, Louie Lopez and 1SG Chris Lewis.

Monica and Steve Frazoni below:

Tony Beltran below:

Jerry Rainey Memorial Scholarship: As usual, presentations will be in August at our normal monthly meeting. Greg Brown said guidance on the nomination process will be forthcoming, but it should be the same as in the past. We will email applications.

Son Tay Raider MAJ George Petrie, R.I.P. 15 April 2011

2011-04-25T13:38:00.000-07:00

Distinguished Member of the Special Forces Regiment Inducted 13 January 2010 Major George Petrie entered the U.S. Army as a Private on June 22, 1958. After attending Basic and Advanced Infantry Combat Training, he was assigned to Fort Bragg, North Carolina for Basic Airborne Training, becoming a proud member of the 3 19th Airborne Field Artillery, 82nd Airborne Division.

In 1962, Major Petrie graduated from the Special Forces Communications Course as Honor Graduate and was assigned to the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) as an A-Team Senior Radio Supervisor. When 8th Special Group (Airborne) was stood up at Fort Gulick , Panama Canal Zone , Major Petrie transferred to the new unit. While there, over the next three years, he attended Scuba and Underwater Demolitions School and Spanish Language School.

In 1967 Major Petrie returned to 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), in the Republic of Vietnam as a Team Sergeant and Company Commander of a mobile guerrilla force. The next year, Major Petrie returned to Fort Bragg , assigned first to 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), and later 6th Special Forces Group (Airborne). During this time, he graduated the Special Forces Operations and Intelligence Course as Distinguished Honor Graduate and also completed the Special Forces Intelligence Analyst Course.

In 1970, Major Petrie received a Direct Commission to First Lieutenant. After completing the Infantry Officers Basic Course at Fort Benning , Georgia , he was chosen as part of Operation Ivory Coast, the mission to rescue Americans held prisoners in the Son Tay prison camp. Major Petrie, part of the Assault Team "Blue Boy," was the first raider to hit the ground during the assault on the camp.

Major Petrie returned to the Republic of Vietnam in 1971, ultimately becoming Company Commander of Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) known as the "George Dickel Gang." He returned stateside for the Infantry Officers Advanced Course where he was the Honor Graduate. His next assignment was with the Joint Casualty Resolution Center in Thailand . He then served in Saigon, first as an Operations Officer, Field Investigator, Corps Desk Officer; and finally as an Action Officer in the U.S. Embassy Defense Attaché Office, serving as a member of the Special Planning Group for the Evacuation of Saigon.

Between 1975 and 1976, Major Petrie was assigned to the 25th Infantry Division in Hawaii . Between 1976 and 1980, remaining in Hawaii , he was again assigned to the Joint Casualty Resolution Center with additional duty as the Special Operations Division Escape and Evasion Officer, U.S. Pacific Command, a post he would also hold in Korea before retiring from Active Duty on May 31, 1980.

Among his numerous decorations he was awarded the Silver Star w/olc, bronze star w/'V' device, ARCOM w/'V' Device, Purple Heart w/olc, Legion of Merit and Meritorious Service Medal.

He had the Master Parachutist wings w/Bronze Combat Star, CIB, Scuba, Pathfinder, Jungle Warfighter badges and Special Forces tab.

George was also awarded the Gold Order of Saint Philip Neri.

George served as President of the Special Forces Association Chapter XXXI for 19+ years.

Westboro Baptist Church Goes To Mississippi – And Loses

2011-04-23T02:36:00.000-07:00

On Saturday USMC Staff Sgt. Jason Rogers, who was killed in action in Afghanistan April 7, was buried in Brandon, Mississippi. That, by itself, is a sadly unremarkable – though certainly noteworthy and solemn – occasion for us to mark.

And in fact when Sgt. Rogers’ body returned to Brandon it was greeted by hundreds, or perhaps even thousands, of well-wishers who gathered at the roadside to honor the fallen American hero. The dashboard camera from Mississippi state trooper Elmo Townsend’s cruiser gives an indication of the scene last Thursday.

What is most notable about Sgt. Rogers’ funeral in Brandon, however, is what didn’t happen. You see, the troglodytes from Westboro Baptist Church had threatened to spew their poison at Sgt. Rogers’ funeral. But the Westboro mob wasn’t on the scene, and Sgt. Rogers was laid to rest without incident – thank God.

Why weren’t there protestors?

Planning ahead by the locals, as it turns out.

From an Ole Miss sports message board, a tidbit of information…
A couple of days before, one of them (Westboro protestors) ran his mouth at a Brandon gas station and got his arse waxed. Police were called and the beaten man could not give much of a description of who beat him. When they canvassed the station and spoke to the large crowd that had gathered around, no one seemed to remember anything about what had happened.

Rankin County handled this thing perfectly. There were many things that were put into place that most will never know about and at great expense to the county.

Most of the morons never made it out of their hotel parking lot. It seems that certain Rankin county pickup trucks were parked directly behind any car that had Kansas plates in the hotel parking lot and the drivers mysteriously disappeared until after the funeral was over. Police were called but their wrecker service was running behind and it was going to be a few hours before they could tow the trucks so the Kansas plated cars could get out.

A few made it to the funeral but were ushered away to be questioned about a crime they might have possibly been involved in. Turns out, after a few hours of questioning, that they were not involved and they were allowed to go on about their business.

Fred Phelps, the disbarred lawyer and Democrat activist who leads the Westboro congregation, will undoubtedly pursue some form of legal action for the way his people were thwarted in Brandon. Let him try. There isn’t a jury in Mississippi which will see things his way.

This is a template for how to handle the Westboro people. If lawsuits don’t work, other means will. Whatever it takes to keep them from harassing bereaved military families on the day their fallen loved ones are laid to rest.

Det A Berlin Working on SF Museum Display

2011-04-21T08:06:00.000-07:00

WHAT: Det-A Berlin Gathering Friday 13 May 2011

MISSION STATEMENT: Detachment (A) JFK Museum Representation

With the aid of Roxanne Merritt JFK Museum Curator, we have secured limited space to add Detachment(A) Berlin artifacts to the SF Historical displays. At present there is no mention of us and we are fading away fast. With the help of all DET(A) members, we can make this come about.

MISSION SPONSOR & PROJECT MANAGER: Bob Charest
Gathering being held Friday, 13 May 2011 & Saturday 14 May 2011, checkout Sunday 15 May 2011. Last call to get the special room rate of $60.00. This rate expires this Friday.

It is not too late to send or pledge artifacts for the DET(A) museum space. You can bring them with you or send directly to the museum:

2175 Reilly Road
Stop-A
JFK Museum
ATTN: Roxanne Merritt
Fort Bragg , NC 28310

We will use the mission statement found on Tom Twomey’s DET(A) web site prepared by Hilmar Kullek as our focal point. Speaking of Tom, you should go to Tom’s DET(A) web site and add/update your email addresses. Web site is located at www.faychap82d.org. Scroll down to the SF Graphic and click.

Also, I am calling on my good friend Garry Betterton to provide the DET(A) colors, as he knows where they can be obtained. No response as of this date.

We also need artifacts from the DET(A) trophy case to be donated. Det(A) Artifacts pledged to date:

· MG Sid Shachnow (Ret): Telephone from Check Point Charlie .

· Kevin Monahan: Three plaques from the DET(A) trophy case.

· Bob Charest: DET(A) Gold Coin.

· Wayne Searcy: RS4 radio.

· Jack Fulp: Trophy from the 1st Para Red Devils Airborne, and a Det A Beer Mug.

· Harvey Cox: Donated his art business to produce an 18x18 professional replica of the condensed Mission Statement by Hilmar Kullek seen on the DET(A) web site.

· Frank Gallardo: 13” Cloak & Dagger wood statue.

· Bruno von Haas: East German Flag that flew over the Brandenburger Tor in Berlin given to Bruno by friend and Berlin Chief of Police in 1989 when the wall went down.

· Mike Linnane: Special Forces DET(A) patch.

· Larry Coleman: DVD with pictures of DET(A).

· Hilmar H. Kullek: Wooden Maneuver Display – Flintlock 1972, Beer Mug – Kampfschwimmerkompanie Eckernfoerde, Beer Mug – 1956 – 1984 CKB, Coffee Cup – from PSSE (Fuer die Sicherheit) – follow-up unit of Det (A).

Thanks to all you folks for the artifact donations to date.

Planned Attendees to Date: Howard “Zipper” Allen, Betty Amaker, Clifford Andersen, Peter Armstrong, Archie Baker, Michael Baltier, Frankie Basil, Carl Beene, John Blevins, Mark Boyatt, Steve Bright, Ron Bruce, Bob Charest, Larry Coleman, John Conrad, Terry Dahling, Duke Dewey, Mike DiRocco, Mac Dorsey, Bill Durand, Scott Fagan, Julius Farago, Bill Fishburne, Lee Fondas, Daughter Susan & family of James Forgy (In Memory Of), Jack Fulp, Tommie Gilbreath, Danny Goldman, Rick Grover, MG James Guest (Ret), Gene Hare, Jim Hargraves, Frank Heidel, Robert Helton, David Hensley, Daughter Vynessie Wilburn & Family of Gene Hill (In Memory Of), Roy Hill, Darrell Katz, Ralph Keith, Mike Kelly, Adam Klys, George Kuchen, Michael Ladue, Todd Lowder, Rick Lavoie, Marc Lewis, Jim Linck, Mike Linnane, Bill Long, Hank Luthy, Bear Martin, Harry Matthews, John McAllister, Roxanne Merritt, Bob Mitchell, Larry Niedringhaus, Ralph Ormes, Bob Picknell, Paul Piusz, Charlie Ponds, Jeff Raker, Carl Riester, Joel Schenkelberger, Wayne Searcy, MG Sidney Shachnow (Ret), Ron Sheckler, Paul Shedlock, SOCOM CSM Thomas H. Smith, Doug Snow, Jimmy Spencer, Jimmy Spoo, Larry Thornburg, Jack Tobin, Ed Townsend, Ed Trout, Arthur Tucker, Gil Turcotte, Don Valentine, Donnie Vickers, Bruno von Haas, Frank Wallace, Rick Westbrook, Jim Wilde, Sid Williams

Special Guests: Madison County, home of Pisgah National Forest Special Forces Training area, Sherriff Buddy Harwood & Chief Deputy Michael Garrison.

Host/POC: Bob Charest, (864)404-8027, snake@dnet.net

2nd Annual CSM Michael Jefferson Scholarship Event

2011-04-18T07:56:00.000-07:00

The Second Annual CSM Michael W. Jefferson Scholarship presentation was held 14 April 201 at New Mexico State University. A very deserving Cadet, Joan Fergeson, was the award winner. Mr. Andrew Way who played high school football with Mike Jefferson was this year's award presenter. I know that Mike Jefferson is smiling up in heaven because he is still helping soldiers after he has departed this earth. The photo above, Left to Right: LTC Taylor NMSU ROTC Commander; Catherine and George Jefferson, parents of CSM (ret) Mike Jefferson; Cadet Kyle Murphy, last years scholarship winner; Stevie Jefferson-Pendergrass, daughter of CSM Jefferson; Cadet Joan Fergeson, this years scholarship winner; Shirley Moncada-Jefferson, widow of CSM Jefferson; Mr. Andrew Way, this years presenter and high school football temamate of CSM Jefferson; MSG Castro, NMSU ROTC SGM.

Chaplain's Corner - March 2011

2011-04-11T11:54:00.000-07:00

Remember, while on a mission, you thought you were going to be killed. Later when you made it back to your base camp you wondered how you made it through that near death experience. Well, I'm going to give you a Christian answer in the words of the "Footprints."

One night a man had a dream. He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the Lord (Jesus Christ). Across the sky flashed scenes from his life. For each scene, he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand; one belonged to him, and the other to the Lord.. When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he noticed that many times along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints. He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest (hot firefights) and the saddest (retrieve the bodies of friends) times in his life.

This really bothered him and he questioned the Lord about it. "Lord, you said that once I decided to follow you, you'd walk with me all the way. But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why when I needed you the most you would leave me." The Lord replied, "My precious, precious child; I love you and I would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you."

If you are reading this, then you know that the Lord walked with you or carried to this point in your life. Between April 17th (Palm Sunday), April 22nd (Good Friday) and April 24th (Easter - Resurrection of Jesus), we will be remembering what God did for us through the sacrificial death of His Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. This is a time to establish a new life saving relationship with God, or renew an expired relationship with God and rededicate your life to God and receive the promise of eternal life with God in heaven. Then find a church that suits your worship style, and grow in your faith in Jesus Christ until God calls you home. Persevere and trust God to get you through these tumultuous and evil times . . .

Chaplain (LTC) John Szilvasy,

France could lose its Foreign Legion

2011-04-09T13:55:00.000-07:00

Article from Pravda stated by the commander of its 13th demi-brigade, Colonel Cyril Yushchenko, while he was giving instructions for the withdrawal of his unit from Djibouti (Africa). Today it is the only French unit (not counting the peacekeepers in Yugoslavia and Afghanistan ) stationed outside of France.

In an emotional address to his personnel, he expressed fears that his unit will be disbanded. Paris continues to reduce its armed forces, and even the famed Foreign Legion could not escape this fate, although it is believed that the Legionnaires are the most combat-ready French soldiers.

The 13th demi-brigade of the Foreign Legion is one of the most famous of its divisions. It was established in January of 1940 to assist Finland that was fighting against the Soviet Union . However, by the time the legionnaires reached their destination, the Finns have ceased resistance.

However, the newly created unit did not have to sit idly: Germany began an operation to seize Norway , and the 13th demi-brigade took an active part in the Battle of Narvik and the campaign on the French territory in 1940.

It became the first French part that joined General de Gaulle and evacuated to Britain . Remarkably, the rest of the Legion remained in the service of Vichy who became allies of Hitler.

In 1940, the 13th demi-brigade took part in the ridding of France 's African colonies from Vichy . It is worth mentioning that soon lieutenant colonel Dmitry Zedginidze-Amilahvari, a Georgian prince born in the Russian Empire, was appointed the leader of the unit. Thanks to his personal ingenuity and courage, legionnaires played a key role in defeating the Italian troops in Eritrea in the spring of 1941.

Immediately thereafter, the 13th demi-brigade participated in the defeat of the Vichy forces in Syria and Lebanon , where its main rivals were fellow legionnaires. However, thanks to Amilahvari, the great strife was avoided. The commander of the 13th demi-brigade ordered the orchestra to play the march of the Legions, and Legionnaires in the service of Vichy took the side of those who fought for Charles de Gaulle.

This unit has also played a major role in defeating the Axis forces in North Africa in 1942 - 1943, and particularly excelled in the Battle of El Alamein , when the commander Dmitry Amilahvari was killed. The grateful French named one of the Italian forts in Djibouti in his honor.

Next was the liberation of Italy , France and the defeat of the Nazis in Germany . These heroic deeds took the lives of thousands of the legionnaires. It is no coincidence that the 13th demi-brigade is one of the most celebrated French army units. In particular, it became the only part of the Foreign Legion that gained the highest award of France for World War- the Order of Liberation.

As soon as World War II came to its end, the war in Indochina has started, in which the legionnaires of the 13th demi-brigade had to learn not only the joy of victories, but also bitter failure.

Among the key events of the First Indochina War where the unit participated was the battle of Na-San in 1952, one of the few battles won by the French during the entire campaign. It is noteworthy that it was the 13th demi-brigade that played a key role in defeating the assault of this base by the best Vietnamese forces.

Yet, as we know, the military fortune has a tendency to change. During the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954, the 13th demi-brigade was utterly defeated and its remnants were captured, and its banners were taken by the Vietnamese as trophies.

However, its Legionnaires managed to save the banner. This story seems unbelievable: according to a legend, a captured, wounded legionary managed to enter the command post of the Vietnamese and steal it. After that, he wrapped the cloth around his body and kept it up until Ho Chi Minh released the wounded French. This way the banner was returned to the Legion.

The recreated unit participated in the Algerian war in 1954 - 1962, after which the 13th demi-brigade was permanently stationed in Djibouti , which became the base for the French operations throughout tropical Africa - from Chad to Congo and the Ivory Coast to Somalia .

This allowed Paris that seemed to have left the lion's share of its colonies, including the African ones, to maintain control over a significant part of the Black continent. And it was not so much a question of prestige for France as one of the "great powers" as a matter of survival. For example, it received nearly all of its uranium from Africa ( Niger , Chad , and CAR).

The smooth and stable supply was provided by pro-French elite, which, if necessary, supported the rapid reaction forces from Djibouti , including legionnaires.

In the case of the withdrawal of the French and further reduction and possibly elimination of the Foreign Legion (now it has fewer than eight thousand men), France will lose its former influence.

Such a risk is clearly demonstrated by the events of 2008, when rebels considerably raised their heads in its former dominions. In Chad , which is one of the most important countries of the continent for the French, nearly overturned the pro-French regime.

Will the French Legion manage to maintain control over the territories scattered around the globe from the Caribbean to Polynesia after the reduction? The question remains open. Of course, today's army is expensive, and the maintenance of the French Foreign Legion costs even more. Gone are the days when prisoners were forced to join the Legion and the gendarmes were catching victims of the Legion on the streets - vagabonds and clochards. Now the Legion has become a professional military organization that requires a decent financial reward. Once Sarkozy complained that the salary of the Legionnaires alone costs the treasury nearly a billion euros per year.

Yet, this is nothing compared to the benefits the Legion gives France , despite its former colonial sinister "glory." The unit consists of nearly 80 percent of foreigners and can be employed anywhere in the world without any fear of the indignation of the French public for possible casualties. Sarkozy, who is planning to reduce the army, obviously should not have touched the Legion that is rightly considered the best mix of the French army.

Tri-Care Tips

2011-04-07T14:34:00.000-07:00

Quick Tips from TRICARE® and Health Net Federal Services, LLC

Keep Your DEERS Information Up To Date!
It is essential to keep your information in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) current for you and your family. Proper and current registration in DEERS is the key to receiving timely, effective TRICARE benefits, including doctors’ appointments, prescriptions, and payments of health care expenses. Below are several ways to update your information in DEERS.

Maximize Your TRICARE Prime Benefit

TRICARE Prime is a managed care option offering the most affordable and comprehensive coverage in Prime Service Areas (i.e., geographical areas where TRICARE Prime is offered). It is available to all beneficiaries who are not entitled to Medicare due to age (i.e., having turned 65). When you enroll in TRICARE Prime, you select or are assigned a primary care manager (PCM) who may be either at a military treatment facility (MTF) or may be a civilian TRICARE network provider. Your PCM provides most of your care and will refer you to a specialist for care he or she cannot provide.

If you are a TRICARE Prime beneficiary, avoid using the point-of-service (POS) option. The POS option allows TRICARE Prime beneficiaries to obtain medically necessary, TRICARE-approved services—inside or outside the TRICARE network—from someone other than his or her PCM without first obtaining a referral. Using the POS option results in higher deductibles and greater out-of-pocket expenses. Prior authorization requirements apply even if you are using the POS option. POS does not apply to:

Active duty service members
Beneficiaries with other health insurance
Emergency care

First eight behavioral health outpatient visits to a network provider for a medically diagnosed and covered condition per fiscal year (October 1–September 30)
Newborns or newly adopted children in the first 60 days after birth or adoption (as long as one other family member is enrolled in TRICARE Prime)

Maximize Your TRICARE Standard and TRICARE Extra Benefit
TRICARE Standard provides the most flexibility to eligible beneficiaries by allowing beneficiaries to see any TRICARE-authorized provider. There are no enrollment fees, but cost-shares and deductibles apply. Cost-shares for active duty family members (ADFMs) and TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) members are 20 percent; for retirees, their families, and all others, cost-shares are 25 percent. Additionally, non-network providers may charge up to 15 percent above the TRICARE-allowable charge (by law), which is not reimbursed by TRICARE.

TRICARE Standard beneficiaries can use the TRICARE Extra option to see network providers and save 5 percent on cost-shares (reducing cost-shares to 15 percent for ADFMs and TRS members and 20 percent for retirees, their families, and all others). Network providers file claims on the beneficiary’s behalf and accept the TRICARE-allowable charge as payment in full. To locate a TRICARE network provider in the North Region, search the online provider directory at www.hnfs.com or contact Health Net Federal Services, LLC (Health Net) at 1-877-TRICARE (1-877-874-2273). You can also call providers’ offices to ask if they accept TRICARE and are part of the TRICARE network. TRICARE Standard beneficiaries now save money with cost-share waivers for many preventive health services, such as immunizations and screenings, including those for colorectal, prostate, breast, and cervical cancers.

Avoid Using the Emergency Room for Nonemergency Situations

In many cases, using the emergency room is unnecessary and can result in longer wait times and higher costs. You can often be treated more quickly at an MTF, your PCM, family doctor, or an urgent care center. The explanations of emergency and urgent care below can help you seek the most appropriate level of service. Emergency Care:
TRICARE defines an emergency as a medical, maternity, or psychiatric condition that would lead a “prudent layperson” (someone with average knowledge of health and medicine) to believe that a serious medical condition exists;
that the absence of immediate medical attention would result in a threat to life, limb, or sight; when a person has severe, painful symptoms requiring immediate attention to relieve suffering;
or when a person is at immediate risk to self or others. If you need emergency care, go to the nearest military or civilian emergency room, or call 911.Urgent Care:

TRICARE defines urgent care as medically necessary treatment for an illness or injury that would not result in further disability or death if not treated immediately, but that requires professional attention within 24 hours. Note: In most cases, TRICARE Prime beneficiaries can receive urgent care from their PCMs. If you are enrolled in TRICARE Prime and do not coordinate urgent care with your PCM or Health Net, the care will be covered under the POS option, resulting in higher out-of-pocket costs.

Avoid Denied Claims: Tell Us about Your Other Health Insurance

If you have other health insurance (OHI), you or your health care provider must file health care claims with your OHI before filing with TRICARE. A copy of your OHI’s payment determination and a copy of the itemized bill must be sent with your TRICARE claim.

Report Suspected Health Care Fraud or Abuse

Review your bill and TRICARE explanation of benefits carefully. If you have any questions or concerns, or if you suspect fraud or abuse, notify Health Net immediately by phone at 1-800-977-6761 or by e-mail at Program_Integrity@health.net.
Using Your TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery Benefit

TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery is your least expensive option for filling prescriptions when not using an MTF pharmacy. Home delivery allows you to receive up to a 90-day supply of your maintenance medications for the same price as a 30-day supply filled at your local retail network pharmacy. If you have a prescription and are a TRICARE-eligible beneficiary, you may order by mail, phone, fax, or online, and prescriptions are delivered with free standard shipping. Not all persons with Common Access Cards or uniformed services identification cards are eligible. If you would like to convert a current maintenance prescription to mail order, call the Member Choice Center at 1-877-363-1433, or use the online tool on the TRICARE Pharmacy Program Web site at www.express-scripts.com/TRICARE.

Wyoming welcomes home veterans from Vietnam and Korea

2011-03-31T20:03:00.000-07:00

CHEYENNE, Wyo. - A ceremony that lasted less than an hour helped Soldiers
like Jerry Montoya bring closure to more than 30 years of battling with the
way his fellow citizens saw his service.

Montoya served in Vietnam, assigned to Army Special Forces, a Green Beret.
Twice he returned home, both times on a stretcher in the middle of the night.
Montoya's first welcome home ceremony came on March 30, 2011, the first time
Wyoming recognized Veterans' Welcome Home Day.

"It makes it official that we're home," Montoya said.

"One of the things about living in Wyoming that people don't get, is the fact
that Wyoming is a very patriotic state," said Lee Alley, vice chairman of the
Wyoming Veterans Commission and a Vietnam veteran. "The (Wyoming Veterans'
Welcome Home Day) was presented to the veterans commission, and we looked at
the proclamation, and they asked us to support it. The way it was originally
written, we were having a little difficulty supporting that, but we tweaked
it and fine tuned it, and jumped behind it and got it passed."

Enrolled Act No. 15 legally made March 30 the day Wyoming residents honor all
veterans, specifically those who did not receive the homecoming they
deserved. It also directs the governor to annually issue a proclamation
honoring veterans on March 30.

Wyoming Gov. Matt Mead signed the first proclamation on March 17, directing
the observance of the day. "March 30 of every year, this year, next year, the
following years, every year will be set aside for this special purpose. This
is a day being observed all across this state," he said during the first
ceremony at the Wyoming Capitol. The governor said he's lost sleep because of
some of the legislation this past year, but "on this one I lost sleep over
(it) only because I was so excited that I was able to sign it."

"It's an opportunity for the nation to say 'we screwed up, we disrespected
our warriors and it will never happen again,'" said Alley, who noted
approximately 25 other states enacted, or are working on legislation similar
to Wyoming's.

For Montoya, the ceremony at his state's Capitol helped cap years of
wrestling with conflicted emotions. He and other Vietnam and Korean War
veterans watched America's sons and daughters deploy and return from the
Global War on Terror.

"And when I saw those kids that came home from the Gulf War going down the
main street in New York with flags and everything, beautiful, but there was a
certain amount of bitterness in me. Where was my parade," he said. "Middle of
the night on a stretcher-nobody knew I was here. I was kind of bitter. It's
taken years to get over that. I've kept it to myself."

Montoya, escorted by his niece, Wyoming Air National Guard Master Sgt. Trudy
Woodcock, was among those who walked through the handshake line, being
thanked by Wyoming Gov. Matt Mead, Wyoming Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Ed
Wright, and other dignitaries.

When asked whether he knew Jerry Montoya had attended this event, SFA Chapter IX President Pete Peral said, "Well, where's there free food,...you'll find Montoya."

The Cemetery Watchman

2011-03-30T19:27:00.000-07:00

My friend Kevin and I are volunteers at a National cemetery in Oklahoma and put in a few days a month in a 'slightly larger' uniform.

Today had been a long, long day and I just wanted to get the day over with and go down to Smokey's and have a cold one.. Sneaking a look at my watch, I saw the time, 16:55. Five minutes to go before the cemetery gates are closed for the day. Full dress was hot in the August sun Oklahoma summertime was as bad as ever--the heat and humidity at the same level--both too high.

I saw the car pull into the drive, '69 or '70 model Cadillac Deville, looked factory-new. It pulled into the parking lot at a snail's pace.. An old woman got out so slow I thought she was paralyzed; she had a cane and a sheaf of flowers--about four or five bunches as best I could tell.

I couldn't help myself. The thought came unwanted, and left a slightly bitter taste: 'She's going to spend an hour, and for this old soldier, my hip hurts like hell and I'm ready to get out of here right now!' But for this day, my duty was to assist anyone coming in.

Kevin would lock the 'In' gate and if I could hurry the old biddy along, we might make it to Smokey's Bar in time..

I broke post attention. My hip made gritty noises when I took the first step and the pain went up a notch. I must have made a real military sight: middle-aged man with a small pot gut and half a limp, in marine full-dress uniform, which had lost its razor crease about thirty minutes after I began the watch at the cemetery.

I stopped in front of her, halfway up the walk. She looked up at me with an old woman's squint.

'Ma'am, may I assist you in any way?'

She took long enough to answer.

'Yes, son. Can you carry these flowers? I seem to be moving a tad slow these days.'

'My pleasure, ma'am.' (Well, it wasn't too much of a lie.)

She looked again. 'Marine, where were you stationed?'

' Vietnam, ma'am. Ground-pounder. '69 to '71.'

She looked at me closer.. 'Wounded in action, I see. Well done, Marine. I'll be as quick as I can.'

I lied a little bigger: 'No hurry, ma'am.'

She smiled and winked at me. 'Son, I'm 85-years-old and I can tell a lie from a long way off.. Let's get this done. Might be the last time I can do this. My name's Joanne Wieserman, and I've a few Marines I'd like to see one more time.'

'Yes, ma 'am. At your service.'

She headed for the World War I section, stopping at a stone. She picked one of the flower bunches out of my arm and laid it on top of the stone. She murmured something I couldn't quite make out...... The name on the marble was Donald S. Davidson, USMC:France 1918.

She turned away and made a straight line for the World War II section, stopping at one stone. I saw a tear slowly tracking its way down her cheek. She put a bunch on a stone; the name was Stephen X. Davidson, USMC, 1943.

She went up the row a ways and laid another bunch on a stone, Stanley J. Wieserman, USMC, 1944..

She paused for a second and more tears flowed. 'Two more, son, and we'll be done'

I almost didn't say anything, but, 'Yes, ma'am. Take your time.'

She looked confused.. 'Where's the Vietnam section, son? I seem to have lost my way.'

I pointed with my chin. 'That way, ma'am.'

'Oh!' she chuckled quietly. 'Son, me and old age ain't too friendly.'

She headed down the walk I'd pointed at. She stopped at a couple of stones before she found the ones she wanted. She placed a bunch on Larry Wieserman, USMC, 1968, and the last on Darrel Wieserman, USMC, 1970. She stood there and murmured a few words I still couldn't make out and more tears flowed.

'OK, son, I'm finished. Get me back to my car and you can go home.'

Yes, ma'am. If I may ask, were those your kinfolk?'

She paused. 'Yes, Donald Davidson was my father, Stephen was my uncle, Stanley was my husband, Larry and Darrel were our sons. All killed in action, all Marines.'

She stopped! Whether she had finished, or couldn't finish, I don't know. She made her way to her car, slowly and painfully.

I waited for a polite distance to come between us and then double-timed it over to Kevin, waiting by the car.

'Get to the 'Out' gate quick.. I have something I've got to do.'

Kevin started to say something, but saw the look I gave him. He broke the rules to get us there down the service road fast. We beat her. She hadn't made it around the rotunda yet.

'Kevin, stand at attention next to the gatepost. Follow my lead.' I humped it across the drive to the other post

When the Cadillac came puttering around from the hedges and began the short straight traverse to the gate, I called in my best gunny's voice: 'TehenHut! Present Haaaarms!'

I have to hand it to Kevin; he never blinked an eye--full dress attention and a salute that would make his DI proud.

She drove through that gate with two old worn-out soldiers giving her a send-off she deserved, for service rendered to her country, and for knowing duty, honor and sacrifice far beyond the realm of most.

I am not sure, but I think I saw a salute returned from that Cadillac.

Instead of 'The End,' just think of 'Taps.'

As a final thought on my part, let me share a favorite prayer: 'Lord, keep our servicemen and women safe, whether they serve at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us.'

Let's all keep those currently serving and those who have gone before in our thoughts. They are the reason for the many freedoms we enjoy.

Tri-Care for Life Endangered - Response from Jake

2011-03-22T06:58:00.000-07:00

If you remember, most of us joined the service with a promise of free medical care after we retired to until death. That promised wa re-nigged upon where retired soldiers pay for Tricare Insurance in order to receive treatment atthe local VA clinic, Military hospital or through the commercial medical community.

I for one, and most of my compadres did not flinch from having to pay for what was promised free. Now the Government wants to raise the Tricare fee.

Under Federal law, if you are a TRICARE beneficiary entitled to Medicare because of age, disability or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), you must enroll and pay the monthly Medicare Part B premium in order to remain TRICARE-eligible. If you are an active duty family member entitled to Medicare, you aren’t required to purchase Part B until your active duty sponsor retires. Apparently the Government now wants to take it away and have retired or disdabled service members soley use Medicare.

This is a letter making the e-mail SF Net from Jake Jakovenko, ret SF SGM, to a DoD Spokewomena for Tricare. I know SGM Jakovenko and he is the LAST person on the face of the earth who could be called a whiner. He tells it like it is form his perspective,....many of us with the same view.

To: Department of Defense ( DoD ) Spokeswoman, Ms. Cynthia O. Smith:

Dear Cynthia,

I hope you don't mind me calling you by your first name. Since I'm most likely twice your age it does seem appropriate (to address your formally).

I would just like to say, and this is only me talking, that at this point in my life I don't really care what you and the rest of the gang at DoD do to my TRICARE for LIFE. It don't really matter, your going to do it anyway.

But I would like to say something to you, DoD, and America: I would gladly give back to you my award of The Purple Heart and my Disability that You and DoD seem to think are bankrupting America. If you give me back the 60 percent of my eyesight in my right eye (I used to have 20-20 vision) then I would give you back that amount of VA compensation.

I would also return to you $ 3,000.00 worth of hearing aids if you can give me back my hearing. (While we'll at it)...also if I could have my original spine I would gladly give you back the steel rod I have in its place. I also have 3 or 4 vertebraes that are fused,......and I wouldn;t want to forget both knees that had to be replaced.

I just wonder if it could of been two tours in Vietnam and being on Parachute Duty for 27 years or maybe the 18 years on Combat Diver status had something to do with it. Cynthia have you ever locked out of a moving Submarine and later locked back in? How about perforating your eardrums? Ever did that?

What I'm saying Cynthia, that if DoD can give me my health and shape I was in January 1958 when I joined the Army, I would gladly give DoD my TRICARE for LIFE. Do I feel undeserving for using TRICARE for LIFE ? Probably Not ! I did my Duty. Do you think you and Pentagon are doing some kind of service for United States of America by cutting TRICARE for LIFE for Disabled Veterans? Evidently a BIG Yes.

Jake Jakovenko

Petraeus says he has personal reason to end war: his son

2011-03-18T10:16:00.000-07:00

Under close questioning about the nation's longest war from Rep. Walter B. Jones (R-N.C.), Army Gen. David Petraeus revealed that he has a strong personal stake in ensuring that U.S. troops get out of Afghanistan as soon as is feasible: His own son is serving alongside them.

Jones said he worried the military would not actually leave Afghanistan in 2014 as promised, and that Petraeus would again be testifying in front of Congress that he needed more troops and more time. "You know, 15, 16, 17 years, for God sakes, how much more can we take, how much more can we give treasure and blood?" Jones asked.

"I may not be at this table, probably won't be, in 2015, but I'll tell you that my son is in uniform, and Lieutenant Petraeus just completed a tour in Afghanistan, which thankfully we were able to keep very quiet, and left in November after serving as an infantry platoon leader," the elder Petraeus said. "We're very proud of what he did. He thinks he was doing something very important," he said.

Petraeus said he understood the "impatience" of the American people. He recalled a conversation with a congresswoman who told him she was a member of the Out of Iraq caucus. "And I said, 'Congresswoman, so am I.' But we have to get out under the right conditions," he said. He said he would be the first to tell political leaders if he thought the military's objectives in Afghanistan were not achievable.

The deadly 10-year war in Afghanistan has claimed the lives of 2,300 coalition members and thousands more Afghan civilians. Petraeus recently apologized for a NATO air attack that killed nine civilians, some of them children.

Petraeus's son, Army 2nd Lt. Stephen Petraeus, "served in Afghanistan as a member of Alpha Company, 3rd Platoon, 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team," according to the AP.

Petraeus isn't the only public figure whose children are fighting or have fought in recent U.S. wars. Sen. John McCain's son Jack graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2009 and his other son Jimmy joined the U.S. Marine Corps when he was only 17 and finished a tour of duty in Iraq in 2008. Vice President Joe Biden's son, Beau, is a captain in the Delaware Army National Guard and was deployed to Iraq for a year in 2008.

Chapter Meeting Notes - 19 February 2011

2011-03-16T14:30:00.000-07:00

Chapter IX Shirts, Coins, Hats, Blazers & Buckles, Shirts and Mugs are available and a new order of the 5.11 Polo’s arrived.

Billy Waugh’s book “Isaac Camacho, an American Hero” is still available. See website http://www.isaaccamachoamericanhero.com .

Rest and Relaxation (R&R) Center Fort Bliss: Chuy discussed the Army prototype R&R Center they started at FT Bliss. There are 30 AD Soldiers in the group and they need money for arts & crafts. Group meets Tuesday’s 0830-1130. Chapter voted to give $100 a month for 3 more months and that should give them enough material to meet for quite a while.

Chapter 46 Wounded Warrior Cruise – Pete is selling tickets. $2 each or 6 for $10 – The Chapter that sells the most tickets receives a free cruise and Pete hopes to win so we can use it as a prize at the next Golf Tournament, the 6th Annual John McLaughlin Memorial Golf Tournament, which Al Hobbs and Ike Camacho will Co-chair.

SF Recruiting Station at FT Bliss dedication attended by Ike and Hugo. The recruiting stattion was named the ‘SSG Joshua Mills Special Forces Recruiting Station” for the SF Soldier from El Paso who was killed in the Afghan War last year.

SFA Facility Project: The President discussed the future facility and the upcoming influx projected of SF personnel in the El Paso area. Segura-McDonald VFW Building is still up for sale and we had more discussion about making that our Team House. Committee was appointed: Pete, Jerry Campos, Tony, Gus, Dr.Alarcon, Tom, Rod, Kirk and Sam.

15th Annual Ralph Dominguez/Jerry Montoya Food Drive: Chairman Jerry Campos thanked everybody for their support including Gus who bought 70 hams for the boxes. We also appreciated the schools that Rod arranged for the can drive.

Chaplain’s Corner - February 2011

2011-03-16T14:25:00.000-07:00

All of us have received good advice in our lives. We chose to finish our education and then we decided to join the US Army and then chose Special Forces. We all have made good choices and today, our lives are the sum total of all the choices we've made up to this point. We have learned that in any given situation, we had a
continuum of choices - ranging from really rotten choices, to the mediocrity of average choices to choices that are good, and then to excellent choices. Some of those excellent choice are; the choice of our choosing our spouses; the choice of getting our ticket punched so that we could get promoted; the choice of choosing the
right actions on missions that resulted in lives saved - the list goes on. However, that most critical and excellent choice you can make in this life is to choose Jesus as your Savior and Lord, and then commit yourselves to be faithful and obedient followers of Jesus who is the only way, the truth, and the life that leads to a right
relationship with God. Jesus is the perfect liberator who frees us from the oppression of living lives separated from God. I look forward to my spiritual life with God, now and after my death. I hope you are too.

FRIES Insertion Extraction

2011-03-11T16:27:00.000-08:00

Some of you remember the old STABO extraction system. The below picture is of the FRIES (Fast Rope Insertion Extraction System). What a view? Probably SEALS or MARSOC personnel coming on the Aircraft Carrier.