Cacti 35th Infantry Guestbook October 2003 - September 2004
Hey Ya'll!! I've been missing everything lately. Went on sick call last november. Massive stroke. Still can't walk very well and have lost most of the use of my left arm also lost my voice due to nerve damage from surgery. Got my voice fixed in late july. Had the leg situation under control until last week when I fell and broke it in 3 places. Just had surgery to put pins in it. I'm going to beat this thing eventually. Hope everyone is well. I don't know if the new e-mail works yet or not my old e-mail address isn't any good for sure. Gotta go... typing with one hand is a pain. Everyone be well!!! Don Blankin
Don Blankin -- Blacksburg SC USA -- 09/30/2004 Email
Looking for any cacti who were in Korea in 50or 51 who may remenber Frank L Blake he was an aidman and was awarded the silver star,and is looking for a copy of the special oerders that has his name on it authorinfg the award,he now lives at 307-A shore-T road Nokomis Fla 34275-1976,
Frank N Kruczynski -- aberdeen md USA -- 09/30/2004 Email
We are looking for volunteers to visit the VIETNAM TRAVELING WALL in the following cities on the following dates. The purpose of the visit is to leave a Memorial Plaque. The purpose of the plaque is to honor our Vietnam KIA's and to provide any Cacti who visit with the information that our Association exists and how to contact us. The cities and dates are as follows: NOBLESVILLE, IN Oct 6 -10; CLAY CITY, KY Oct 13-17; CARTERSVILLE, GA Oct 28 - 31; HERNANDO, FL Nov 4 - 7; and CLARKSVILLE, TN Nov 10 -14. I would ask that your visit be as close as possible to the opening date for each city so as to maximize the time that the plaque is in place. All you have to do is visit the Wall and leave the plaque in front of a panel. We will provide you with the plaque and even suggest the most desireable panel to post it in front of. Contact me at jimdochall@yahoo.com Thanks - Doc Hall
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 09/30/2004 Email
Hi All,
Those of you who attended the reunion in Orlando a couple of months back will remember that our President (Bill Burdick) challenged us all to try and locate just one old Cacti buddy this coming year. Has anyone actually made the attempt yet? Finding that old buddy will can be one of the thrills of your life and will also benefit the buddy and the Association as each finds out about the other.
A couple of years ago I offered up a booklet that we have developed on "How to find that Old Buddy". I want to renew that offer. I will be glad to send anyone a copy who would like one. I would also be happy to assist anyone in their search. I am not offering to completely do the search for you but would be happy to assist. Just contact me at dochall35@yahoo,com or write to me at 1335 N. Broad St. in Woodbury, NJ 08096.
For those of you who weren't at the last reunion let me make that challege now. Before the next reunion find just one of your lost old buddies. (And don't forget to let us know about it.) Again, I will be happy to try and assist you in this effort. Cacti Forever, Doc Hall
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 09/29/2004 Email
I'm looking for Vietnam Vets who may remember my Uncle Glen H. Young (Charley Company, 2nd Bt KIA 28 October, 1966).
I invite anyone who may have known him to visit the page I have up in his honor, and PLEASE leave a message on the remembrance board.
http://jeepingene.homedns.org/glen
Thanks in Advance...
Gene
REQUEST FROM OUR CACTI IN AFGHANISTAN -- CONTACT BEN OR PETE BIRROW IF YOU NEED AN ADDRESS TO MAIL THE SUPPLIES.
WHEN VISITING A DUNKIN DONUTS TELL THEM THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS.
Hello all,
Several of you have asked what you could send soldiers deployed forward in Afghanistan. I've been petitioned by the masses to see what I could do on getting some chewing tobacco sent...yes this item is known to cause lip and mouth cancer, and even though I don't chew myself, the gesture and receipt of such an item would be overwhelming. Long days and long nights, walking up and down the mountains of Afghanistan can wear the body down. Quite a few of the soldiers use the chewing tobacco to keep themselves awake. I think the Command Sergeant's Major and myself are the only ones in the Battalion Staff/Command group that don't chew.
Others like myself drink coffee...however, don't send coffee!! Dunkin' Donuts in concert w/General Mills sent 1000, 1xpound bags of coffee complete w/cups-lids. We are indebted to these two organizations for life...or at least as long as the coffee lasts :) Honestly I can say that the coffee and other gifts from home has had a significant impact on the troops morale. For instance, everyday you go to the break room in the tactical operations center, you can walk up and pour yourself a fresh cup of dunkin' donuts coffee, read a newspaper and/or magazine sent from anyone of the 50 states, grab a handful of candy and or some of one of the many mom's homemade cookies/brownies. All of these gifts make life here in Afghanistan and the separation from are families and home that much more tolerable.
My sincere thanks to all of you who continue to support our troops.
hi guys,
i was with the alpha 1/35 1st plt from 4/67 to 2/6/68
looking for anyone with the 1st plt //if anyone rembers
david bonner he pastaway about four or five years ago
larry g starling -- winston salem nc usa -- 09/27/2004 Email
HI enjoyed the site. I'm doing research on what our soldier's are carrying into battle with them these days. If anyone has any information please let me know. God Bless you all and God Bless America! I pray all our troops come home safe. They make me so proud to be an American. God Bless!
I would like to thank everyone for their kind words and encouragement to stay strong!! My husband Matthew Buchanan 2-35 Inf. 3rd PLT in Afghanistan and i would like to tell him that i love u with all my heart and to stay strong and i'll see u soon!!! If any body knows him to PLEASE tell him!! To all soliders and family ( thank you for what you are doing and come home safe, and stay strong!!
(SUPPORT OUR TROOPS) WITH LOVE
Jessica Buchanan -- glen alpine nc USA -- 09/25/2004 Email
Greeting's from down under in Melbourne Australia,i'am a retired sgt.Served 26 yrs in the Australian Army.15 yrs in infantry and 11 yrs in supply.In 1975 went to Hawaii for 6 weeks on exchange and served with 1st Bn 35th Inf at Scofield Bks.Our company which was B coy 1st Bn Royal Australian Regiment(1 R.A.R)had a great time.Even after all these yrs my memories are strong.Do you sell unit plaques as I collect them.Would like to hear from any one who remembers us aussies at Scofield bks in 1975. CHEERS
alan eaton -- melbourne vi Australia -- 09/23/2004 Email
I visited Walter Reed Army Hospital last night and I was very moved to talk with our wounded/recovering soldiers, both male and female. Their spirits are very good. Some thanked me for visiting them while I thanked them for their service and sacrifice.
I received a question from a soldier about the tax status of their pay while they are hospitalized and I will post a brief answer here in hopes it might help another solder who might read this.
Internal Revenue Code Section 112 excludes compensation received from the Armed Forces of the U.S. from gross income while serving in a combat zone OR WHILE HOSPITALIZED AS A RESULT OF WOUNDS, DISEASE OR INJURY INCURRED WHILE SERVING IN A COMBAT ZONE.
Therefore, whether a wounded member of the Armed Forces is hospitalized in the States or in Iraq or Afghanistan, their compensation from the Armed Forces is tax free.
Gary Dittmer -- Woodbridge Va USA -- 09/22/2004 Email
I would like to thank all Cacti Vets who responded to my info request Re: Sgt Robert W Kenny KIA Vietnam Jan 67. Special thanks to Ronald Ray in Sacramento, Pete Birrow and Ed Hill. Gone but Not Forgotten
Barry Blake
Black Diamond, Alberta, Canada
Sincere congratulations to all of the Cacti in Afghanistan who were awarded The Combat Infantry Badge and the Combat Medical Badge recently. There is no other Army award that is more cherished and respected than these two awards.
Wearing my field jacket as a civilian in 1970, I was asked if the CIB on it was mine. Understanding that it was, the field grade medical officer then humbly told me that he would rather have a CIB than his Medical Corps awards.
With all honor and due respect, our Association sends a hearty round of applause and a big hand salute to all of the awardees at the prestigious ceremony. Come back soon, safe and sound for your families.
Just a note to let all Assn Members know that the Cacti Times Newsmagazine is delayed due my free time being used up by two Hurricanes and the death of My Wifes Father. I am diligently working on getting it finished and hope to have it in the mail by early October. I sincerly apologize for the delay but it was unavoidable.
Cacti Forever
Dear Friends and Family of Korean War Veterans:
I, too, share your grief in losing a loved one. My father was Vernon Clarence Watson. He died September 10, 2004 from brain and lung cancer. It was a slow and painful death. But I take comfort in knowing that he's home now, with his parents and his sister up in Heaven.
Dad told me that his proudest accomplishment in life was being a soldier in Korea. He handled 57 recoiless rifles and was also an aid man on Hill 717 around September 1951. According to Dad, he was the third most-decorated soldier in Korea but the government lost his records and would not give him the medals he deserved.
I just wanted to let you all know that I share your grief of losing a loved one. I share your memories of having a father serve in Korea. I share that void that appears when the soldier becomes silent forever. With tears and a heavy heart, I give you all my love and my prayers that our loved ones died for a greater purpose. And that their mission, their fight, will never be forgotten.
Thank you for letting me share my story, my pain, my memories.
Got our power back on. It was out for 48 hours however I know many here in Florida have gone longer and many still do not have power. Pray for all of them.
Take care.
Ben
Doc. Hall have you ever heard of a roster for the 35th. reg 25th. div. K co. For the years of 1951 or 1952 2nd plotoon. Are any one who ever new new me.2nd.plotoon medic Doc Reed. Sgt.Joseph Reed Medic Korea 1951 1952.
Sgt. Joseph doc.Reed -- spring tx USA -- 09/07/2004 Email
I am looking for anyone who may know Frank L Blake who was with med co in 49 & 50,he now lives in Punta Gorda Fla at 33983-6263 nadir road unit 401, his wife sent me an email before Charlie hit and said he would like to cummunicate with me by regular mail as he does not have a computer,but i have not heard from since Charlie hit,idid get in touch with Raymond Thibdeau by phone but have not heard from him he lives in Fort Myers Fla, would apriciate hearing from anyone who has been in touch with either one of them.Thanks
Frank N Kruczynski
Sfc USA Ret
623 Law st Aberdeen Md 21001
Frank N Kruczynski -- aberdeen md USA -- 09/07/2004 Email
Lost some Palms, I am on opposite end of HWY54 from Cacti Ben. Relatives in Vero got whacked hard
R. Ellis(DOC) -- Trinity fl USA -- 09/07/2004 Email
I'm New to this website and enjoy it.
I just viewed the HHC KIA list and remember some of the fire-fights that we were in.
We lost some real nice guys between Oct. 66 and Sept. 67.
If anyone remembers Me(I became squad leader when Frank Bazell was killed), I have some questions for You.
Phil Monday -- West Bend WI USA -- 09/06/2004 Email
Hi All,
Just talked with Ben Youmans (4pm 9/6/04) and him and Val are doing good. They haven't had power since yesterday and don't know when they'll get it back. So he is asking that people refrain from emailing him until he has power back. He said he will post on this web site when he has power again.
Doc Johnson -- Baton Rouge LA USA -- 09/06/2004 Email
PS. also spoke with Bill Keller and Chick Aitchison, in Sarasota and St. Pete and they are fine also. My prayers also for our Cacti in the neighboring states who will recieve bad weather related to Frances.
We are recieving high wind gusts and rain squalls but so far here we are fine. We are 30 miles NE of Tampa on US 301. I spoke with Miles "Surf" Sawvel, who lives in Melbourne, FL, yesterday. He had boarded up his home and he and Donna are down in the Miami area with family. He said they were doing fine down there. All Florida Cacti please check in and let us know you are okay. Hopefully you have access to the internet. I will be sending a mass email out to all Florida Cacti that I have addresses for asking for a sitrep. On behalf of the Association Officers and all Cacti everywhere, we send all Florida Cacti our best wishes and prayers for your safety during this horrific storm named Frances. God be with all of you and keep you and your family safe.
Take Arms and Cacti Forever
Ben Youmans
Secretary/Treasurer
35th Infantry Regiment "CACTI" Association
CactiBen -- Zephyrhills FL USA -- 09/05/2004 Email
Edwin C. Farmer served in the 25th Div, 35th Inf Reg, Company L from 28 May 1941 through 22 July 1945. He served in the Quadalcanal, Northern Solomons, Luzon and Central Pacific Campaigns. Ed passed away about 3 years ago. His family will enjoy reading about the service to his country while with company "L" of the 35th Reg.
Your research is outstanding.
Bob 8-27-04 1830 hrs.
Hi Guys,
Just want to take a minute to put in an appeal to all. In a message below Wayne is looking for information on Sept 21 thru the 30th of 1968 for actions involving C Co. 2/35th. I've written to Wayne to point out that the period of 25 thru 30 Sept is covered in the Association web site "Timeline" section by Dailey Journal entries linked from Jim Anderson's site. We have no personal recollections on the timeline for this period. My appeal to all of you is to take a look at the "Timeline" and if we don't have a date covered (or even if we do) for which you have a recollection, please take some time to sit down and give us your recollection of the day's events. These are the things that make up our history. These recollections are a truer history than any records that the Army might of kept. This is not a technically hard thing to do. It just takes a bit of your time but this bit of history will be preserved (hopefully) forever.
Jim Doc Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 08/26/2004 Email
This is for Donna Grizzard your Email dose not work try this URL for Information on 24th Div
http://search.yahoo.com/search?fr=sbc-web&tab=-web&p=24th+Infantry+Division+1961&btn=Search
Need help Sept. 21 thru sept 30 1968 C Co. 2/35th took a beating. Anyone with documentation of these actions or knows where I might find info. please e-mail me. Wayne sykes Cacti Forever
wayne sykes -- louisville ky USA -- 08/26/2004 Email
Geo. Colleman what is your phone #
David O. Cassler -- Philipsburg PA USA -- 08/26/2004 Email
I am trying to gather information on the 24th infatry div.in 1961
Donna Grizzard -- santarosa bch. fl USA -- 08/26/2004 Email
I would like more information about adopting a soldier. I am sorry to have bothered you if this is not the correct e-mail. I have been trying to find a way to say Thank you to our men and women who are serving (although I could never give back what they are giving to me), but I would like to do something if possible.
Vickie
We have recieved word that Gary Breaux, C 2/35th,2nd Platoon, 1967-68,passed away on June 17, 2004. He died of multiple cancers throughout his system. He is buried at Terrbonne Memorial Park Cemetery in Houma, LA. His sister Jeanette got the word to us. Gary's wife and daughters live in Houma.
Bury Me With Soldiers
By Father Charlie Fink
I've played a lot of roles in life;
I've met a lot of men,
I've done a lot of things I'd like to think I wouldn't do again.
And though I'm young, I'm old enough to know someday I'll die.
And to think about what lies beyond,
Beside whom I would lie.
Perhaps it doesn't matter much;
Still if I had my choice,
I'd want a grave 'mongst Soldiers
When at last death quells my voice.
I'm sick of the hypocrisy of lectures of the wise.
I'll take the man, with all the flaws,
Who goes, though scared, and dies.
The troops I knew were commonplace
They didn't want the war;
They fought because their fathers and their fathers had before.
They cursed and killed and wept...
God knows they're easy to deride...
But bury me with men like these;
They faced the guns and died.
It's funny when you think of it,
The way we got along.
We'd come from different worlds
To live in one where no one belongs,
I didn't even like them all;
I'm sure they'd all agree.
Yet I would give my life for them,
I know some did for me..
So bury me with soldiers, please,
Though much maligned they be.
Yes, bury me with soldiers, for I miss their company.
We'll not soon see their likes again;
We've had our fill of war.
But bury me with men like them till someone else does more.
I was traveling from Midland Tx back home to Tulsa on several trips I've made in the past.
I stopped in Dundee Tx at the cemetary, there was a military marker listing Douglas W. Stegall, next to him was his fathers. Douglas was KIA in Vietnam March 1967, his father was a world war 2 vet that passed away in 2000.
I felt compelled to do some investigation into Douglas Stegall, as myself a vet, and I have a son of draft age. I can't imagine how Douglas's dad had to live with his sons death.
I came across the 35th infantry website during a search, and I am trying to find a photo image of Douglas for the site.
So far no luck. I have contacted Karen Howard of Graham Tx. school for help.
There is no evidence of Douglas attending Graham, even though the Cacti website claims him to be from Grahm, Dundee is about 70 miles from Graham.
Anyway, God Bless, Kevin Koloff
Hi, I just want to let everyone know that a special friend of yours and mine has passed away after a long illness. His name is James (Jim) Korenka. from Binghamton, NY. Just thought I would let you know.
ON 20 August 1966 we lost John Hymes He was a close friend of mind an I wanted to let the rest of you know how were John was killed we were on a S/D coming north from the idrang along the border we reach Hwy 19 West of Pleiku at appox 1300 hrs we made contact John was pointman an was killed instantly we were on the south side of Hwy 19 west of Pleiku were it was still a dirt road we could not move an out of no were came two M60 Tanks shooting Bee Hive rounds to the north side of the road at that time the NVA broke contact an cross the border we swept the area but only found blood trails so time during the fire fight someone got up an cover John with his poncho liner do not remember who it was John you are sill missed after all this time God Bless Frank
Sorry guys. just went thru prostate cancer. sold house. swapped the harley for an rv. am now traveling. finally online again.Site is better than ever. keep up the good work.CACTI forever Frank Debilio E.co 1/3568-694.2 mortar platoon.
frank debilio -- pensacola fl USA -- 08/20/2004 Email
I was directed here to find out more about my uncle, James Emory Maness, and his comrads. I know a good bit about him as far as his childhood, but I don't know much about the soldier he was. I was barely 2 years old when he left for Vietnam. Sad to say, he never returned.
His name was mentioned often, and he left behind seven brothers and sisters.
If anyone knows anything they could relay to me, please send me an e-mail.
Thanks
Chris Maness
Chris Maness -- Kearney MO USA -- 08/18/2004 Email
I'm looking for anyone who may have served with my friend in Vietnam. He is Sgt E5 Robert W Kenny who served with the 1st Bn of the 35th HHC Company from July 66 until he was KIA 24Jan 1967. Bob and I served in the Canadian Armed Forces together before he enlisted in the American Forces.I would appreciate hearing from anyone who knew him Tx
Barry Blake -- Black Diamond AB Canada -- 08/17/2004 Email
We enjoyed ORLANDO.A very good job by the REUNION committee.
They even scheduled around HURRICANE CHARLEY.
New KOREAN VETS attended and hope they continue.We missed LOPEZ & GUINN and we will miss BARTON forever.Hope all can make it back to LOUISVILLE and beyond.
GIB MCKENNA
HVY MORTARS 1953
GIB. MCKENNA -- PHOENIX AZ USA -- 08/16/2004 Email
Hi everyone,
I wanted to drop a quick note to say what a pleasure it was to attend the reunion in Orlando. My fiance' Jennnifer Surace locates members of the 35th Cacti for you. She also enjoyed festivities and we plan on attending next year as well. Great site by the way. If you ever need any help with anything just let Jennifer or myself know.
Had a great time in Orlando at the reunion. Met two men I had not seen in 34 years - Captain Jim Fisher and Sgt. Larry Curtis. It is like finding long lost brothers. The stories are always great to hear, especially about chickens in the field. A big thanks to all who put this reunion on. I know it takes a lot of time and effort to make it all come together. hope to see all of you next year in Louisville.
Bob and Joanie Maves
B Co. 2/35 69-70
Bob Maves -- Janesville Wi USA -- 08/14/2004 Email
I grew up in Alameda, CA with SSG Austin Cook (HHC, 1/35; kia 17Jul67). My brother and I both have a hole in our lives where "Butch" was; we do have many good memories, however. Anyone who served with Austin is welcome to contact me and we can share some stories about a common friend.
Michael Martin -- Pine Grove CA USA -- 08/14/2004 Email
I had a wonderful time at the reunion. I would like to thank everyone for making me feel so welcome. A special thanks to Pat O'Connor and Roger Stevens for taking me under their wing's, making sure I was included in activities and not left to wonder where I was supposed to be or what I should be doing. The reunion was amazingly well organized. My hat is off to those of you who planned and executed this great gathering.
Thanks,
Jennifer Knol
Jennifer Knol -- Holland Mi USA -- 08/13/2004 Email
was doing some research an found this site on Schofield Bks Hawaii it has a lot of Information in it
http://search.yahoo.com/search?fr=sbc-web&tab=-web&p=Schofield+Barracks+Hawaii&btn=Search
I'd like to say Hello to everyone in the Cacti family. We are all doing fine here in Afghanistan. We are all proud to be serving our country and becoming a part of history. "Take Arms!"
Benjo, I can put you in touch with Ed Coleman, your email doesnt work, give me a holler right away.
home email c23568@verizon.net
work is byoumans@kforce.com
If Anyone Knows Who put the link for the Tropic Lighting Silver Book In our site Please let us Know so can get tham to fix it it will not open past Page 179 Thanks
Frankie G willard -- Wichita KS USA -- 08/11/2004 Email
I am a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 195 which was named after John Larry Jeffers. We believe him to have been the first casualty from Kershaw County, SC during the Viet Nam War. I enjoyed your site and think it is a wonderful honor to our fallen heroes. Thank you for taking the time to remember.
Hello All,
We are in contact with the parents of Theodore William Sandidge, D 2/35th, KIA 4/3/68 during the fight on Hill 1062. They are anxious to speak to anyone who knew their son. Ted was from Pawnee, IL and had been in-country since July 1967. Contact info:
Mr and Mrs William Sandidge,
120 13th Street,
Pawnee, IL 62558-9441
(phone) 217-625-4691
(email) carson28@yahoo.com
F co 35th Reg 7Dec 1941, could see the smoke and fire coming from Hickum field when I woke that morning. Took all day to get ammo from the depot. Had to break in Igloo.
Hi to all my Cacti dads,
I am sorry we missed the reunion this year. Things came up at the last minute and we couldn't come. We were looking forward to seeing all of you again. We hope you all enjoyed it and look forward to see you next year in KY.
The best to you and yours. Take care.
Love,
Kerry and Kellie Ash
(daughter PFC William Stovall, KIA 1968)
OKAY,THE FALL CACTI TIME NEWSMAGAZINE IS IN PROGRESS. IF YOU HAVE ANY SHORT STORIES OR PHOTOS FROM THE REUNION THAT YOU WOULD LIKE INCLUDED GET THEM TO ME ASAP. IF YOU CAN SCAN THE PHOTOS TO A DISC IN TIFF FORMAT. IF YOU MET AN OLD BUD OR A BUDS FAMILY FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MANY YEARS WRITE UP SOMETHING, I CAN EDIT IT. EMAIL IT TO ME SOONEST.
IF YOU JUST WANT TO COMPLIMENT OR CRITICIZE SEND ME THAT ALSO. THE FALL ISSUE IS DEDICATED TO OUR REUNION AND TO OUR ACTIVE DUTY CACTI IN AFGHAN BUT WE HAVE PLENTY OF ROOM SO FAR. ANY SICK CALLS OR TAPS PLEASE SEND THOSE WITH FULL INFO.
CACTI BEN, TANGO YANKEE OUT.
To all of the members of the reunion committee. My sister and I attended our first Reunion this year in Florida. It was very obvious the hard work that went into arranging this top notch affair. The KIA Memorial Tribute which included our brother, Jackie West KIA 3/5/69, will forever be etched in our minds. It is a comfort to know that he is still being remembered after 35 years in such a heartfelt and honorable manner. We both came away from this Reunion feeling comfort and part of a new family.
Hope to see all of you at the next Reunion in Kentucky.
Pam Panagiotou and Shelley Assenheimer
John Hayden West's Sisters
you might want to consider west point for a reunion;
it is rich in military history, veteran friendly,has many good facilities , like a banquite hall, rv campsites,swimming, and fishing places,hotels ,motels etc
and it,s located in the beautiful hudson valley
joe(doc)baker -- pine bush ny USA -- 08/05/2004 Email
Got back from the reunion last night. What a great time! My wife enjoys it as much as I do. This is a first class run organization, thanks to all for all the hard work that goes into making them what thet are. Can't wait for next year.
Rocco 'Doc' DeRosa -- Fountain Hills az USA -- 08/04/2004 Email
Hi, just stumbled upon this great site, I am sending in my membership today, I was a member of 1st Plt Co B during May 28-29 at 10 Alfa. will never forget those 2 days a few months later after injury (non combat related), I became the company Supply Sgt until Feb 1967 I have a foggy memory for names but am interested in getting in touch with other members of B Co. 2nd 35th
Richard Nilsen -- Massapequa NY USA -- 08/04/2004 Email
i just mailed out photos to dave muxo on a cd, the pictures are from lz liz, and the duc pho area 1967. there are about sixty of them. those of you who were on liz will remember the sceans, and maybe some of the faces; enjoy
sincerly joe(doc)baker co. c 2/35
joe(doc)baker -- pine bush ny USA -- 08/03/2004 Email
My Dad, William H. Adamick, fought in Guadalcanal and Vella LaVella with the 35th. At the age of 84, he remembers his Company possibly being D. I'm sad to say that his uniform and medals are nowhere to be found. I was wondering if there might be a list available with the names of the men in the 25th Division, 35th Regiment, Company D (1942 - 1944) so that we could verify this. Any information or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Lottie Dennis -- New Waverly TX USA -- 08/03/2004 Email
ORLANDO...BEST FAMILY REUNION THAT I HAVE EVER BEEN TO. THANKS TO ALL INVOLVED IN MAKING IT HAPPEN.
MY REMARKS CONCERNING VA CLAIMS AND BENEFITS WERE BRIEF AND, ARGUABLY TOO HUMOROUS, BUT THE INTENT WAS TO LET EVERYONE KNOW WHAT WAS AVAILABLE NOT TO DISCUSS THEM IN DETAIL. SO, ANYONE REQUIRING FURTHER INFORMATION OR HELP IN FILING, PLEASE CONTACT ME AT 972-783-7237 OR EMAIL AT jmcooke@swbell.net
Jim "Recovering Tanker" Cooke
I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR SOLIDERS WHO ARE SERVING IN AFGANASTAN. WORDS CAN NOT EXPRESS HOW PROUD YOU ALL HAVE MADE US. WE ARE ALL PRAYING FOR THE DAY WE GET TO WELCOME YOU HOME. I WOULD LIKE TO GIVE SPECIAL THANKS TO MY WONDERFUL HUSBAND CHRISTOPER L. HOLTHAUS WHO IS SERVING WITH ALPHA CO. 2-35 INF. I LOVE YOU AND I MISS YOU VERY. YOU ARE A WONDERFUL MAN AND A GREAT SOLIDER. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO. I LOVE YOU WITH ALL OF MY HEART. I'LL SEE YOU SOON!!
WITH ALL OF MY LOVE---JAMIE RAE
JAMIE HOLTHAUS -- WAHIAWA HI USA -- 08/03/2004 Email
Hope all had a good time at the reunion,sorry I missed it had a lot going on.Hope to see you next time. Would like to meet Doc Hall and everyone who gave me a hand on some paper work 2 years ago.Sorry I missed Tom K. You all take care and have a good year. Thanks to all that make this site possible.1/35th A co 3rd plt 1968. Gary Rose
Gary Doc Rose -- naples nc USA -- 08/02/2004 Email
August 2 1966 a very Sad Day for 2 BN 35th we lose a lot of good men on this day I remember it as if it happen yesterday. I stll think a lot of Lt Davis He was one of the best Platoon leader I had in 20 years in the Infantry My prayers go out to day to all there framily members an I miss tham a lot GOD BLESS
Frankie G willard -- Wichita KS USA -- 08/02/2004 Email
To all you B 1/35 guys, sorry I didn't make it to the reunion this year. I have been busy selling and buying a different home. Doing some remodeling now. I will be at next years reunion, God willing. I hope you all had a good visit and don't forget to send your pictures so they will be posted and I might see them on the site.
Mike.
Mike McCann B co. 1/35 67-68 -- Milford IL USA -- 08/01/2004 Email
This letter is to notify you of a change in my e-mail
address. Previous was (papasausedo@aol.com)
new one is (Qmudaddy@aol.com) please send all mail to this address. Thanks, will keep in contact.
I am a member and will send in dues asap.Sorry I can't make the reunion this year,both my wife and I lost our jobs due to a plant closure.Everyone is still in our hearts and minds .................comrades for ever.
Paul V. Sausedo -- Tolleson Az USA -- 08/01/2004 Email
I received a letter in the mail as a result of a mass mailing of postcards to Bravo non-members. Wayne Reynolds, B 2-35 63-65, died 2/18/04 in a vehicular accident. Please say a belated prayer for him. Thank you all for attending the reunion. Thank you all that helped us be so successful this year. Our Cacti spirit and brotherhood continues!
Pete Birrow -- Tyngsboro Ma USA -- 08/01/2004 Email
All: The 2005 Cacti Reunion will be held at this time of year in Louisville, KY. Watch for the exact dates.
Just heard on the 5pm news that the 27th Infantry just lost a man in Iraq my prayers to his framly God Bless Frank
Frankie G willard -- Wichita Ks USA -- 07/30/2004 Email
Cacti! Sir's and Ma'am's!
The reunion of 2004, is now on its first day. I know you will All have a Great Time together! Will send messages to "above", for good weather during the reunion. Am looking forward to viewing photographs further on, with many smiling faces standing together. Take Good Care!
Sincerely
A.B
Hi all. My name is Donna Roesler daugher of Larry Ketter. I want to thank all of you who were to reunite with him this week. You all made him so very happy. He was looking so forward to the reunion and just so happy to have found you all again. He was a proud proud man and a wonderful father. We will miss him a great deal. So now i just have wonderful memories to look back on and there are a great deal of those. You all take care and know that the reunion was all he talked about and i am so sad he missed out. Donna.
Donna Roesler -- Menasha wi USA -- 07/28/2004 Email
Do Any of you that were with CoC 2Bn 35th in 1966 remember
Where that big Hill that we went up an when we got to the top we realised that if the NVA had been on top of that hill they would had a field day on us because the entire top was ringed with bunkers with interlocking fire that covered every square inch of that hill believe it was between the Ia Drang an Kontom
Frankie G willard -- Wichita KS USA -- 07/28/2004 Email
does any one know where i can get a copy of the "cacti newspaper? ther was an article about my husband in a recent issue that i have seen. if you can get me a copy of it please let me know via email. thanks
Jenniece "Nissi" Fraise -- wahiawa hi USA -- 07/27/2004 Email
Hello Cacti,
As you all may already know, my husband was KIA on June 7, 2004 in afghnastan. i wanted to let my cacti family know that my daughter and i are doing alright. we are getting stronger and stronger everyday. My family and i appreciate ALL of you love and support! i recieved your cards and the flowers, i am forever grateful. thank you for the love and support.
Nissi and Jireh
Jenniece "Nissi" Fraise -- wahiawa hi USA -- 07/27/2004 Email
I was with HHC 2-35 96 to 98 but i'm looking for 2 things. one is other guys that served with me and the other is that i have a good friend that served with George Cco in Korea and i'm looking for anybody that served with him. Any information about that time period would be very helpfull
Pfc Bass Christopher D. -- Powder Springs Ga USA -- 07/27/2004 Email
Have a great time at the reunion. Can't make it. Was planning on heading down, but decided to buy a new home. Having it built so have to stick around. Have wonderfull time. Will be thinking of you all. To all the guys from B 1st 35th Hooya!
Roger A. Thiessen "T" -- Glendale AZ USA -- 07/26/2004 Email
Please scroll down 3 or 4 entries and read about Larry Kettner. There is a lesson to be learned there. If you have any desire to hook up with your past Military Buddies you need to do it now. If you can't find him send me his name, home state, and if you have his social security number (it's on some orders) I'll try and find him.
Wiley Dodd (Tiny) Sgt. at Arms -- Riveriew MI USA -- 07/24/2004 Email
hello to all those who are serving and who have.i thank you all from my heart to yours for what you have given and for those who served with my brother Spec4 William Douglas Wyant in vietnam.may God Bless you all.
marye wyant fast -- moline il USA -- 07/22/2004 Email
Assigned A Co 1/35 Apr 60- Oct 63 squard ldr mortar plt.
Assigned HHC Oct 63 - Apr 64 Mortar plt 4.2mm squard ldr
MSG John H. Berger RET -- Surprise az USA -- 07/20/2004 Email
Larry Kettner, from Appleton Wisconsin, suffered a massive fatal heart attack today. Larry was an 11B with Alpha 2/35 who went on to work in TOC as an RTO with me. Recently, Terry Savely went to great efforts to find Larry. The three of us had planned to reunite next week after a 35 year separation. Say a prayer for a good Cacti tonight. Larry, we continue to miss you.
Peter Birrow B & TOC 68/69 -- Tyngsboro Ma USA -- 07/20/2004 Email
Hey guys, I just got a message on my answering machine from guy named Ronnie Mc Carty. He said he wants to talk to me and he was In Viet Nam with me. He did not leave his number. If anyone knows this guy call him and tell him to call back and leave a number this time. If anyone knows what state he lives in tell me and I will do a name search. Thanks Okie
If you read the entry by Mary E Wyant East I been helping her a little I got her stuff in the time line for her an walking with the 35th on the fire fight on 9 Fwb 68 when her brother was KIA she Knows more now how it happen but she would like to her from you guye that were there fowlling is some that I sent her an her reply I Have sent this to Ben
Mary
I had been thinking about a few things
When you get contact with Anyone Please remember that That we all were real close over you even get closer them family most of the time an when we lose someone it was real hard on us.
the bigger the fire fight with lose;s the harder it is an still in on us we all got the memories of what happen but a lot of them we got lock away because it so hard to bring them up to remember every time we lose one of our guys we lose part of our self's an part of our families an when it was a Medic it hurt so much more because of the job an hold they took care of us a medic to an Infantryman is almost like a god in our mines we depend on them for our lives an they came thru all the time if we had our way all Medic would get the Medial of Honor that why we all call them Doc this is a few things I felt I needed to say give them time they will open up even through it hurts live hell
Frank Willard
Her reply> hello frank.i understand this more than you know.you all were in a
situation
> where you all tried to watch out for each other.that it doesnt take a
family
> bloodline to become a family.it is the matters of circumstances and what
life
> throws at you that can make a bond.it makes me feel comforted that my
brother
> had such wonderful friends around him in this trying time that you all
were
> going through.to know that he wasnt facing the unseen attackers on his own
but
> had you all walking beside him.i cannot help but mourn and cry for all you
> soldiers endured during that time and what you are undoubtly going through
> now.the war never really ends as it stays within the memory and heart for
all
> time.i just wish that things can be settled without sending soldiers
into a
> war zone .giving innocent lives doesnt solve anything but causes pain loss
and
> heartache for those who had to go forth in those wars.i just want all of
you
> to know as far as i am concerned you are part of my family always as you
were
> with my brother.there are certain ties that are thicker than blood and
this is
> one of them.i was only 15 when i lost Doug and i ached many times to talk
to
> him and to share my life with him.to have him there when i was married and
at
> the birth of my children and there when when we lost our dad last year.he
was
> a kind and wonderful brother whom i will mourn to my dying day.with
extended
> friendship to you all mary elizabeth wyant fast(fast1@mchsi.com
>
Frankie G willard -- Wichita KS USA -- 07/20/2004 Email
God Bless you all. Your families, friends and all the citizens of the America, pray for you and your speedy and healthy return.
Madeline Tully -- Dunedin Fl USA -- 07/20/2004 Email
This Sunday in church .i will stand up and ask all there to pray for the 25th. on the 25th. and all our troops. I ask all who read this message to also consider doing this also. I will also send a letter to local paper asking all in this area to do likewise, Cati ,
Charles N. Rea -- Harison Ar USA -- 07/20/2004 Email
I Was A member Of Love Co. from 9/1/51 thr. 6/1/52
in the 4th platoon. My first day of combat was on hill
717.
WANTING TO SEE IF THERE IS ANYONE OUT THERE THAT SERVED WITH MY BROTHER SPEC 4 WILLIAM DOUGLAS WYANT .
MARY ELIZABETH WYANT FAST -- MOLINE IL USA -- 07/18/2004 Email
I believe my father Jerome J. Hendrick was in the 35th as he fought on Guadalcanal, Vella lavella and Luzon (wounded in february 1945...in the mountains..near a town that is now a resort)...would like any information available about him and his service during WWII...thank you for a great web site..terry hendrick
terry hendrick -- Lake nebagamon wi USA -- 07/15/2004 Email
does anyone have an e-mail address for LT. william stoner.
if so please send it to me
joe(doc)baker -- pine bush ny USA -- 07/15/2004 Email
As a proud Dad of a B/2/35 troop, I'd like to offer a special word of thanks to Pete Birrow and the Association for working to make sure the 'newbies' aren't forgotten. As I spread the word to family members, friends and even casual acquaintances about the 'adoption' program, the resulting flood of volunteers to 'adopt' a soldier and send letters and packages has really done my heart good. I don't plan on stopping even after all the Bullrocks have been squared away. From what I hear, we can all help with the effort by sending items for the Afghan children as well (my son says they'd rather have pens and paper for school than candy!!) - after all, who's going to be the next generation in that country? God Bless all who have shared their lives with our soldiers!!
Randy Moyes
THE SUMMER 2004 ISSUE OF THE CACTI TIMES NEWSMAGAZINE IS IN THE MAIL. IT GOES BULK RATE SO THE DELIVERY TIMES ARE LOCAL TO TAMPA 3-5 DAYS, INSTATE (FLORIDA) 5-10 DAYS, OUT OF STATE 5-15 DAYS. THAT IS WORK DAYS.
IT IS MAILED TO ALL MEMBERS IN GOOD STANDING. IF YOUR DUES ARE UP TO DATE YOU SHOULD RECIEVE THIS ISSUE.
1967-1968, Karl died of a maasive heart attack May 31, 1981
He loved you guys---- Gretchen, his sister
Karl King -- Washington DC USA -- 07/12/2004 Email
Hi. Does anyone out there remember Sgt. Herbert Ragans C Co 2nd. BN, 35th INF RGT, 4 INF Div, better know as Randy? He died in Pleiku, South Vietnam in 1969. If you do happen to know him, would you please email me. I would love to hear from anyone who knew him.
God Bless you all,
Shari
Doc Joe Baker, thanks for posting. We dont have you on our rosters. If you send me an address I will mail you copies of our Cacti Times Newsmagazine with info on the upcoming reunion and membership. Look forward to hearing back from you.
ROLAND RUSH; i was his medic, his family should feel free to contact me 845-744-3750
joe(doc) baker -- pine bush ny USA -- 07/10/2004 Email
DOC BAKER; that,s me i was with the 2/35 from jan5th 67 to jan 5th 68 does anyone remember me? if so please contact me. i have many pictures any stories to shares.
Greetings to all,
I am hoping to hear from anyone who served with my Uncle, PFC Roland E. Rush. He served with:
Charlie Company
2nd Battalion
35th Infantry Regiment
He was Killed In Action on May 20th, 1967.
We are hoping to make contact with anyone who was with him on his last day on earth to clear up conflicting reports that have plagued our family for 36 years about his death. Please feel free to email me, Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Love and Respect to all of our Servicemen, Veterans and their familes.
James Westmoreland -- Rock Spring GA USA -- 07/09/2004 Email
My dad served with alot of you guys ( 1LT Patrick W. O'connor, 2/35th) and I felt the need to write something in this guestbook. As I was growing up I never fully understood what my father went through in Vietnam. I always felt proud of him for serving his country, but never fully understood or appreciated him until I was older. I now have a totally different kind of pride for him and the brave men like him. The one thing that has always bothered me about the Vietnam war, is that all of you went through great hardships and life altering events, yet you were in many cases scorned upon returning home. It is hard for me and my generation to fully understand all that went on in the 1960's and 1970's, but yet I cannot understand how fellow Americans could turn their backs on our brave men. I know it might seem like a small gesture almost 40 years later, But welcome home and thank-you. God bless you all.
Patrick C. O'connor -- Pleasant City Oh USA -- 07/09/2004 Email
I remember something that we did in NAM one time we were on Rear Guard for BN CP in the Rock quarry in Kontum we Had this FNG that we sent around the area for a back blast bag for a 90mm recoilless rifle they gave it us to use on line He spent the whole day looking for one till the Battalion Commander asked him why he was just walking around he told him what he was looking for an who sent him that was one of the worst ass chewing I ever had what was funny after the BN Cdr got threw he walk away laughing does any one with the 1st Platoon Co C 2/35th happen to remember his name
Frankie Willard -- Wichita Ks USA -- 07/07/2004 Email
This is New Item At Wal Mart which should be good to send troops in care Packages they do work used them on Grandkids last night they come in Packages of three Wal Mart has them an Walgreen drugs Iam sure other stores should have them to
It is called a Bug Chaser Insect Repellent wristband strips it can be worn as a wristband ,on the ankle,clippedon a hat,beltloop an etc.
Frank C/2/35tth 66
Frank Willard -- Wichita KS USA -- 07/06/2004 Email
Turk, by the way, Joe Lucas is a life member and Chip Coates is an annual member of the Cacti Assn.
Turk thanks for posting on the Assn guestbook. We have guys who do a lot of research, if you provide more info perhaps we can help. Joe Lucas is now in Iraq as a civilian contractor.
Also please consider joining the Cacti Assn as it is thru our members dues that we are able to maintain this website and research for our history and the men who served with us.
thanks.
Joined C 1/35 in Oct 65 at Schofield. As soon as I unpacked, we were deployed to Pleiku. Company Commander was superb Military leader,Capt. Alvino Cortez. I will always remember him as well as H.P. Rogers who was killed on 6/24/66. Left Nam on 12/18/66 with Chip Coates, Joe Lucas ( President TBB) and a few others. I have forgot (perhaps intentionally) as much as I could, but thanks to the VA, I realize that many others have been carrying the same cross. A trip to Washington on Veterans Day, 2003 proved to be rewarding and comforting. Any one who served with me, please write.
Peace, Turk Starniri Jr.
Ernest "Turk" Starniri Jr -- Easton Pa USA -- 07/04/2004 Email
Don thanks for remembering your buddies. The Assn has worked long and hard to keep all those departed remembered. I hope you got the Cacti Times I mailed you and I hope you will consider becoming a member of the Assn. Have a safe 4th.
All gave some -- some gave all!
Today i look back to July 3rd 1966 and remenber 20 of my fallen Cacti comrads who gave their lives at Chu Prong Massif/la Drang River. I was one of the lucky ones, but i lost a lot of good friends that day. Peace be with you my fallen friends.
Donald J. Sternhagen -- Marion IA USA -- 07/03/2004 Email
I was reading the KIA list like I do every day an I see where the B Co 1BN 35TH lose so many Men in one day in 66 I was there in 66 but never heard of it ,That why we need this site becouse you find out what else was going on when you were there that you never heard about God Bless Frank
Frank Willard -- Wichita Ks USA -- 07/03/2004 Email
Genevieve -- Pearl City HI USA -- 06/30/2004
Your email address is not sendable. Please email me for instructions; my address is below.
God bless the brave men of the 2-35th infantry. I am looking for a Christian soldier who might like to have a pen pal. I would love to share bible verses, send care packages, and get to know a brother in Christ through letters.
Genevieve -- Pearl City HI USA -- 06/30/2004 Email
2nd/35th
2/67-2/68
Looking for comrads. Are you out there?
Ezra Pratt -- Palm Desert CA USA -- 06/29/2004 Email
My grandmother married a man named Larry R Shane, and thanks to your web site, I have been able to find out a little more about him. He was KIA on May 29, 1953 in the Korean war. I wear the wedding ring he gave my grandma and think about what he was like constantly. I've been slowly piecing together the life of this man I didn't know, but my grandma loved dearly enough to hold onto his belongings and the wedding ring to give to me, 48 years later just before her death. If anyone knew him please contact me so I can learn more about him. Thank you so much. And god bless our troops.
Christina Mae Garton -- Lincoln NE USA -- 06/29/2004 Email
Looking for these former members of Weapons Plt. B 1st 35th. Underwood, Bennet,Lindberg, Blue and Taylor. Guys if you read this, drop me a line. "T"
Roger A. Thiessen "T" -- Glendale AZ USA -- 06/28/2004 Email
To all those planning on attending the reunion this year, I could use your help. I'm in charge of the registration desk this year and need people to help out at the desk with me. The more guys we can get to volunteer, the less time each of us will have to man the registrstion desk. If you are willing to help out. please e-mail me direct and I wiil put you on my list. Thanks very much...Bill Wilds
66 MORE TO GO!!!! Hey all you old Bravo (or Baker or Bullrock) guys. We need your help! As many of you know by now our active brothers are in Afghanistan. As they place themselves in harms way we need to do what we can do to show our support for them. There are 127 Bullrocks and 61 have been paired up so far. These are outstanding young men! Doc Hall, John Lorts and I have organized a support committee for the active Bravo (actually they call themselves Bullrocks these days). We need guys to help us communicate with each of these young men. We need guys to help us make sure that these guys receive "goodies" packages with some regularity to help brighten their days. We need for each of you to step forward to give us a hand with this. Give me or Doc or John a shout and we will be happy to guide you in support of these Brothers. Please contact me at the e-mail return address below. Don't sit on the sidelines for this one we need you now. (ACTUALLY WE NEED SUPPORT FOR ALL THE COMPANIES OF THE REGIMENT. IF YOU WISH TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR ANY COMPANY OF THE REGIMENT LET ME KNOW AND I WILL POINT YOU IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.) Thanks, Doc Hall, Pete Birrow, John Lorts
Latest update from the Cacti, some of you already got this I realize.
Hello Everyone, latest update from the front-lines is as follows:
The battalion continues to work towards providing a stable and safe environment for the upcoming elections and future of Zabul Province. The past two weeks have been busy to say the least. During recent operations, the battalion in conjunction w/local and national agencies (police, CIA equivalent, Afghan National Army and "others") have been identifying Taliban and other anti-coalition militia (ACM) working in the province. Recent operations have resulted in the following:
1. Over 50 detainees; 4 of which have positive ties to Taliban/ACM activities
2. 4xDSHKs w/over 22,000 rounds of ammunition captured (DSHK pronounced dishka is a 14.5mm anti-aircraft gun)
3. 500+ Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG)
4. 2x82mm mortar systems w/assorted number of rounds
5. 82mm recoiless rifle (best described as a ground mounted cannon)
6. Numerous caches (weapons/equipment either blown-up in place and/or back-hauled to base for historical purposes...war trophies)
The men have been in sporadic firefights and are doing well. Most of the enemy fear... and I mean this literally, fear our firepower and capabilities. There is nothing worse than to have to come face to face w/a US coalition force armed to the teeth with enough firepower to level a small mountain. I'm happy to say no casualties have been experienced on the side of the cacti. The men are working like a well oiled machine, systematically clearing villages, cave complexes, and caches of enemy forces. The men remain well disciplined and continue to look after each other on the battlefield. The leadership of this unit and the individual soldier attention to the smallest details is winning this fight.
The Quick Reactionary Force (QRF) has been busy as well. This is a force on a 30minute string ready to reinforce troops in contact and/or local governmental/security forces in trouble. Over the past two days, I led two missions to support one of our districts that was being threatened by Taliban forces. During both operations, the QRF air assaulted in to secure the local police headquarters and district leader's compound...high adventure. We extracted several local police casualties and prevented the Taliban from further threatening the compound and village proper.
Of note: The Taliban and ACM continue to be evasive, blending into the local populous to avoid detection whenever possible. This is not a new technique. The Vietnamese and North Koreans did this as well. Our biggest challenge is in identifying these men as we move from village to village. The good news is that we are slowly doing this!...as we move from village to village, the good that we are doing is spreading from town to town(wells, opening schools, medical, assisting law enforcement...).This is something that the ACM/Taliban is unable to do "win the hearts and minds of the people" and more importantly, we are helping the local population help themselves. Local law enforcement is being equipped and is more effectively taking the fight to the enemy than it had been in previous months/years. People are coming forward w/invaluable information which has already saved the lives of our soldiers and local townspeople.
Thats all for now from the front-lines in Afghanistan. Till next time,
v/r
"Cacti-5"
Ilost all my e-mail addresses to aol in the switch so please mail me your adresses
Paul
Paul D.Watson -- Twinlake Mi USA -- 06/26/2004 Email
There have been some inquiries if we knew info on a Memorial Fund set up for Cpl David Fraise's baby. At this time we have no definite info but I have called the Church in New Orleans to try to contact the familly. Once I get any info I will post it or you can email me.
Thanks.
If you are attending the 2004 Cacti reunion please make your hotel reservations ASAP.
The hotel is filling up and our room block is almost full.
The hotel number is
800-327-9170
Only call Monday thru Friday 8am to 4pm Eastern time..
Only talk to the Hotel reservation person, do not try to book rooms with the National reservations for Radisson, they cant get you a room.
YOU MUST IDENTIFY WITH THE 35TH INFANTRY REGIMENT REUNION..
I recently viewed a young woman's search for her father who died in Nam. I had to look for my half-brother, Roland E. Rush. Thank you for your site.
Chloe Westmoreland -- LaFayette GA USA -- 06/23/2004 Email
I am David Fraise Cousin Thank you
Nakia Jones -- New Orleans la USA -- 06/22/2004 Email
Yesterday was the funeral for David M. Fraise from A 2/35th in Afghanistan. I know that many of you read my previous post and thought "that's a good idea". I also know that many of you have not gotten around to buying that sympathy card and mailing it (and may never get around to it without a reminder) Well here's your reminder. It is not too late. Please do it today or within the next couple of days. Show the family that we care about their terrible loss. Send the cards to: "The Family of David M. Fraise/ c/o the Boissier Labat Funeral Home/ 1703 Clairborne Ave/ New Orleans, LA 70116." You don't have to worry if you can't think of the proper words. A card signed by you and indicating which unit and year of the 35th you were in will do nicely. Thanks guys -- Doc
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 06/22/2004 Email
Hey Cacti! Anyone out there remember Cpt Hicks, Cmdr Co A, 2/35? Where was he from?
Steve Rainbolt -- Plainfield IN USA -- 06/21/2004 Email
This terrific Association that we formed a few years ago has blossomed beyond what many of us could imagine. A lot of good work has been accomplished over the past few years and there is a whole lot more that we can be doing. We are pretty well running past the capacity for our dedicated officers and volunteers to handle. So we are coming tonight to ask for volunteers to man our first general Task Force. This first TF will address the problems of membership. Duties of the TF for Membership will include approaches to lists of names of ex-cacti that we already have in our possession as well as Approaches to identifying currently unknown ex-Cacti and how we communicate with them. TF members will form cost effective strategies for finding our old buddies. This may involve letter; e-mail; or telephone campaigns across the country. This may involve public relation campaigns to get our name out to the public. This may involve any number of other innovative strategies as will be determined by the TF members. We are asking tonight for volunteers. We need 20 or more for this TF. It is helpful if you are reasonably proficient with the computer but you don't need to be a computer wizard. Members of this TF can be made up of current Association Members; Currently non-member ex-Cacti; Family members of current or ex-Cacti; or just plain friends of the Cacti. TF members will be duly recognized as an official function of the Association. We need your help. Don't sit on the fence. It is OK to volunteer now. Please contact me at dochall35@yahoo.com . Or by writing me at 1335 N. Broad St./ Woodbury, NJ 08096. I will be happy to answer any questions that you may have. - Doc Hall
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 06/20/2004 Email
Want to take this time to remind every one to say a prayer for all the Children and Grand Children That have a Father or GrandFather listed on the wall God Bless tham All
CACTI ALWAYS
As you all know by now the 35th suffered it's first casualty in Afghanistan. The funeral for David M. Fraise A Co 2/35th will be held Monday June 21 in New Orleans. David leaves behind among other family a Wife and 6 month old Daughter as well as his Mother. Sympathy Cards can be sent in care of the Funeral Home. I encourage ALL Cacti to show their support for our young Brother's Family by sending sympathy cards. This is a simple enough matter. You don't have to convey great words of wisdom. Just the simple act of purchasing a sympathy card, signing and mailing it will show that you care. Back when most of us served such support as this would not of been possible. Families could not know that there are hundreds or thousands of Brother Cacti who care and share their sorrow. Please go out today and buy that card; address it; sign it and mail it. It is the very least we can do to show these young heroes and their families that we care. Send cards to: The Family of David M. Fraise/ c/o Boissier Labat FH/ 1703 Clairborne Ave./ New Orleans, LA 70116. Again the funeral is Monday. It will be nice to have as many cards there as possible by then but if you read this late please do not fail to act at that time. Cards can still be sent even weeks later. PLEASE GUYS DO NOT PUT THIS OFF. IT IS NOT DIFFICULT OR EXPENSIVE. DO IT TODAY OR TOMORROW OR NEXT WEEK BUT DO IT. Thanks Doc
jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 06/18/2004 Email
Bravo 2/35 Fourth Annual Luncheon. Last year in Buffalo, we had a fantastic B 2/35 company luncheon on the shores of Lake Erie. 64 Bravo's and guests enjoyed a beautiful sunny afternoon on an outdoor patio. This year, my Bravo Brothers, we will be in sunny Florida in July! Time to head inside for some ice-cold air conditioning and an ice-cold beer. Be there at The Black Angus Steak House in Kissimmee at 1pm on Friday, July 30. 2004 for our 4th Annual Bravo Luncheon! The Black Angus Steak House is conveniently located within walking distance of our hotel (no convoy required) so we will be able to hump right over for a great luncheon. GM Joe Del Rosso promises us a great time at a reasonable cost. This year, we will be able to order off of the luncheon menu for under $10! Joe has everything on this luncheon menu from steak burgers, fish sandwiches or pizza to chicken, ham, pork or prime rib entrees! Here's the deal: No up front money is needed this year, however, I do need to know how many will be attending. Joe has a very large restaurant that has different seating areas. Please e-mail, call, write, fax, etc me before July 23rd so that we can give him an accurate head-count by the end of that week. Lets try to break the record for attendance that we set last year and see if we can come up with numbers to equal two platoons! Tell your Bravo friends about this great event. You guys are great and your families are even greater; lets get together again this July. Stay in touch until then. "Cacti Forever - But Bravo to the Core"!! Peter Birrow 68/69. e-mail; birrowp@comcast.net phone: 978-649-6562 (H) 617-222-3607 (W) fax: 617-222-8309 (W)
email from afghanistan regarding our Cacti
Hi,
My company has been busy doing a lot of good work in this part of Afghanistan. I just spent 2 weeks moving from village to village talking with the elders/leaders about many different aspects of their city to include what the taliban are doing. At every step you can find those that fought the Russians and buildings still in rubble from that war. You can see the destruction from the taliban. And now you can see the work the US is doing both with Non-governmental organizations and with the military. They are very hospitable and eager to help us do our work. I have had the priviledge to sit with many of the elders and drink Chi Tea and eat flat bread as we discuss the business of the city. The children are eager and curious about everything that we do. I was talking with a teacher and his young son (1 or 2 yrs) walked out to us. he was curious about our trucks and us but couldn't get himself to get too close - still afraid because we are so different. In all place the people want very badly to be left alone and to return their country to the beautiful place it was 25 years ago. We are making that possible and it's great to be a part of it.
For all those - and there are a lot - that have sent letters, cards, thoughts, prayers, boxes, and emails, this is as much about the work that you are doing to support us as it is about the work the soldiers are doing everyday. This is a thank you for that support - the support you give in your own way.
I'm very proud of my boys. They have performed splendidly. They have moved among the children with tenderness and care and at the same time, have responded to attacks with strength, accuracy, and the determination expected of a US soldier. We will make a change in this country.
We are all doing fine and are completely absorbed with doing our job. Please share and check up on the TF Cacti website for more info and pictures of the company.
Thank you Craig (CO of HHC 2-35)
Just got a call from John Lorts who just received a letter from his adopted troop. When you send packages to your adopted troop in Afghanistan don't send flea collars, they don't need them where they are. Lorts couldn't post this as his computer is sick and waiting for a new part.
Rocco Doc DeRosa -- Fountain Hills AZ USA -- 06/16/2004 Email
Ben,
You and the Entire Cacti association have been a major Lifeline and support to our cacti families, I feel ashamed that my gratitude cannot equal all the support you all have bestowed upon us. I think you folks are Doing a excellent job and I do know in fact that in our company as well as Others they strive on the cacti website for the support they need,Deployed soldiers families, spouses and friends have a place to come to for comfort.
The Cacti Website has been a blessing to our Battalion, I am forever grateful for all the support you all have shown us.
God Bless You All
Mahalo
Kim Akuna
Kimberly Leimomi Akuna -- Waianae Hi USA -- 06/16/2004 Email
Attire for the Reunion Banquet is Corporate Casual. Collar shirt, slacks, shoes and socks for guys is the minimum we ask. Some do wear Coat and Tie but it is not required.
Ladies usually do dress more than the men but most wear a dress, skirt and blouse, slacks and blouse etc. Many as I say do out dress the guys.
Please no shorts or T-shirts.
Thanks.
My mother and I are hoping to attend the reunion in Orlando. She asked me to find out what the "dress code" is for the Saturday night dinner??
David Williams -- pickens sc USA -- 06/11/2004 Email
The 25th Division Assn rotates their reunion every five years to Hawaii.
We have not as the 35th set that system up as over half our members were under the 4th Inf Division so going to Hawaii with the 25th has no meaning to them.
We are the 35th Infantry Regiment with our own agenda.
Roger Doc Ellis, Cpt USA ret -- Trinity FL USA -- 06/10/2004 Email
Latest news we have from New Orleans. No other info as of yet.
Fighting kills N.O. soldier
Kennedy grad dies in Afghan explosion
Thursday, June 10, 2004
By Joan Treadway
Staff writer
Cpl. David M. Fraise, 24, of New Orleans died Monday in Afghanistan after an
improvised bomb struck the Humvee in which he was on patrol, the U.S.
Defense Department announced Wednesday.
Injured in the attack, Fraise was transported to the Air Field Hospital in
Kandahar, where he died, a department spokesman said.
Fraise, who was assigned to the 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks
on Oahu, Hawaii, was the only soldier killed this week in Operation Enduring
Freedom, said Lt. Col. Stan Heath, an Army spokesman at the Pentagon.
A memorial service for Fraise is planned in Afghanistan and a prayer service
will be held at the barracks, but they have not been scheduled, nor has his
burial place been chosen, said Patricia Simoes, a spokesperson at Schofield
Barracks.
Fraise, an infantryman, signed up for the Army in June 2001 and was assigned
to Hawaii in December of that year, she said.
Connie Craig of New Orleans, an aunt, said Fraise followed a family
tradition of military service. He had a cousin, uncle and grandfather who
served in the armed forces.
"Helping people was one of his main priorities. He knew the Bible," Craig
said. "I remember his mom saying this was something she couldn't talk him
out of because this was something he wanted to do. He wanted to help the
country."
Fraise graduated from Kennedy High School, where he participated in student
government, and went to church often and sang in a choir, Craig said.
He leaves behind his wife, Jenaiece, as well as their 6-month-old daughter,
Jireah, Craig said. Fraise's widow, who lives in Army housing on Oahu,
declined a reporter's inquiry Wednesday afternoon, Simoes said.
Fraise's mother, Juanita, lives in New Orleans.
The Associated Press reported Monday that three soldiers were wounded and
one later died after a bomb hit their Humvee about 250 miles southwest of
Kabul. Warplanes were striking militants in nearby mountain caves at the
time, the report stated.
Fraise's death brings to at least 91 the number of American service
personnel who have died in and around Afghanistan since the U.S. invasion.
. . . . . . .
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Joan Treadway can be reached at jtreadway@timespicayune.com or (504)
826-3305.
info from hawaii about Cacti being on FOX
According to Afghanistan, Geraldo will be doing two, one-hours shows from
Kandahar airing on Fri and Sat 10 p.m. EST. I looked in the Hawaii TV Guide and Geraldo's show is listed only on Saturday at 4 and 7 Hawaii Time. Any other information that spouses are receiving I cannot confirm. He will be in Kandahar beginning Thursday for 5 - 7 days. If they go to Geraldo from FOX in New York, we will not know ahead of time to tape. Hope this information helps.
I was in Vietnam from August 69 to August 70. I was in Company C; 1st Platoon; 2/35th Infantry; 4th Infantry Division. By reading the timeline, it brought back, in vivid detail, just like it was yesterday. I was there on January 19th. I am looking for others from my Company. Please contact me at my email address.
Michael (Terry) Ewing -- Springfield MO USA -- 06/08/2004 Email
Regretfully we have bad news to report. One of our Cacti has been Killed in Action in the battle against Terroism.
Please say a prayer for the family of the killed and wounded. This Brave Young Hero was with A Company, 2-35th. The family has been notified but we are not posting the name as of this time. You can email me for further info as we get it.
TAWARA, Afghanistan (CNN) -- A U.S. soldier was killed and two others wounded Monday near the southern Afghan city of Kandahar as American troops battled Taliban fighters along the rugged border with Pakistan, a U.S. commander said.
The soldier died after a remote-controlled roadside bomb detonated underneath his Humvee near Deh Rawod in Afghanistan's Uruzgan Province, according to U.S. Central Command.
He was one of three soldiers in the vehicle who were taken to a military hospital in Kandahar.
About 20,000 troops from the Army's 25th Infantry Division and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit have been fighting Taliban forces in provinces along the Pakistan border in recent days.
In other violence, two improvised explosive devices detonated Monday alongside an Army convoy, and an Army camp in Paktika Province was the target of a rocket attack overnight. No injuries were reported in either incident.
Seven U.S. troops have been killed in the past month in Afghanistan, where U.S. troops are battling remnants of the al Qaeda terrorist network and the Taliban militia that once ruled most of the country.
Here is the link to the Va's new graveside locator web site: http://gravelocator.cem.va.gov/j2ee/servlet/NGL_v1
I tried several names and they all were cited accurately.
Good luck!
Gary
Gary Dittmer -- Woodbridge VA USA -- 06/07/2004 Email
fyi...A message for all of you from the wife of HHC 1SGT Kim Akuna
take care
ts
Our husbands will be on the Geraldo Rivera's show this coming week on the Fox network-----
June 9 interview with our Brigade
June 10 interview with 2-27, our sister Battalion
June 11 LIVE, interview with the 2-35 CACTI, 4:00 in the afternoon!
June 12-13 Geraldo will spend the night with the 2-35 CACTI
This Information could change --- subject to our husband's mission -- SO-- watch all this week. I will pass on more information or any changes as soon as I get them.
Terry Savely -- Sugar Land ts USA -- 06/07/2004 Email
How many of our Viet Nam era brothers remember the way we looked forward to letters and "care" packages? It looks like a lot of you have forgotten,or is it something else?News from the Active Cacti is that they are just like we were-trying to do a hard job with limited resources and a pat on the back or cookies from home were real special things.Pass this on to our young brothers.Adopt a Cacti!
Patrick W. O'Connor -- southington Oh USA -- 06/07/2004 Email
Had lunch today with Erle Gooding. He was an RTO with D Co. 2/35th 4-68/4-69. He would like to hear from some of you D Co guys.
take care
ts
Terry Savely -- Sugar Land TX USA -- 06/07/2004 Email
Larry Jackson was killed 1/8/68 with D, 2/35th. Larry's brother is looking for anyone who knew him.You can contact him through his daughter Teresa, Ciara4169@aol.com
Thanks,
Dick
To find a gravesite for a Veteran, here is a link to a Nationwide Gravesite Locator from the VA. I have tried it and it is quite accurate.
Gary Dittmer -- Woodbridge Va USA -- 06/06/2004 Email
ha (phyllisemily) you ask questions about mike litsey i was with him but dont know anything of his home life
joe hallman -- shreveport la USA -- 06/06/2004 Email
Over this past Memorial Day period, visits were made to 54 Cacti gravesites by a wonderful group of Cacti Volunteers. These volunteers were : KIA Family members Clare "Bunny" Kalsum (Holke) and Dr, Jennifer Knol. Cacti KIA friend Elizabeth Martinez and our Cacti Brothers Lee Ingram; Joe Farmer; Tom Kehoe; Russ "Doc" Martin; Dave Loudermilk; Gary "Doc" Rose; Philippe Saunier; Sidney McMahen; Tiny Dodd; Dick Arnold; and Doc Hall. Grave sites visited were: Kenyon Bean; Leon Beard; Paul O'Neal Brown; Robert Catling; Tommie Campbell; Charles Chase; Steve Clark; Ralph Corona; Harry Davis; Wesley Davis; Robert Diehl; Michael Farley; Lynn Ferguson; Daniel Fields; Willie Francis; Rodney Franks; Joe Furch; Raymond Garth; Robert Guinn; Ulys hamilton; Paul Harrison; Eurey Hatchett; William Hildebrand (Korea); James Hopson; David Hutchings; Joe Johnson; Ray Johnson; Michael Kindred; Robert Kline; Joseph Ledesma; Lawrence Letterman; Reginald Lynch; Lamarre Major; James Maness; Jay Martine; Robert Martinez; James McCarthy; Dennis McCauley; Wilfredo Mercado-Santos; Lewis Milam; Robert Murphy; Jerry Novakovich; Greig Parkhurst; Richard Pratt; Dennis Podgorny; Frank Raz; Richard Roundtree; Steve Smith; Harold Stokes; William Stovall; Harry Varner; Ronald Ward; Gerald Watkins; and Franklin Williams. Thank You everyone involved in this effort and God Bless all of our heroes.
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 06/05/2004 Email
Before I left for work this morning I brought up our web site and as is my normal morning habit I brought up the KIA memorial section to see what KIA's we suffered on this date. The first picture that came up shook me a bit as today's date was not in my mind. It was my old buddy Guinn, still 20 years old after all these years. But I don't need a picture to see him. I still think about you daily pal. The date just wasn't in my mind this morning. A bunch of us from the old platoon will meet again this summer at the Cacti Reunion. We'll talk about your antics and laugh just like in the old days. For a few days you will live and be the life of the party again. God Bless you old friend. We miss you. -- Doc
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 06/04/2004 Email
One of our heros was Michael L. Litsey KIA 9-5-69 in Pleiku Province. Does anyone remember serving with him. I went to the same HS. I am also trying to find the cemetary he is buried in so I can visit there. I only have the town, Caneyville, KY. Thanks.
Phyllis
Phyllis Kendall -- Brandenburg ky USA -- 06/04/2004 Email
Hi Cacti troops, I am looking for gunts from Charlie Co. 1stBn,35th. Weapons Plt. It would be nice to hear from some of the guys I served with from 1976 to 1977. thanks chief.
Chief Chuck YoungBird -- St.Paul MN USA -- 06/03/2004 Email
My cousin Donald (Donnie) Sherril Sullivan was killed on January 29, 1967 in the Binh Dinh Province South Vietnam. He was a member of the 40th Scout dog platoon assigned to C 1/35 platoon "B". His dog's name was Alexander. If anyone has any info, please contact me.
Thanks for a Job Well Done and WELCOME HOME to all vets.
Tony
Tony Woodard -- Pine level NC USA -- 06/03/2004 Email
In regards to PFC Steven E. Clark Charlie CO., 1st Battalion
35th Infantry Reg. Vietnam War
I am wanting to make contact with members of his unit.
Any help would be much appriecated. KIA 9-Feb 1968
Paul Clark Jr. -- Noblesville in USA -- 06/02/2004 Email
Would anyone that served with the C co. 1/35th during January of 1967 Viet nam, please email me and let me know if you knew or knew of PFC Reginald Wayne Lynch KIA on 1/20/67. I placed a memorial on his grave last sat. and met his family. His mother wants to talk to some one that knew him. Write or call me Doc Rose gvrose45@yahoo.com or 828 890 8069 and I will give you the details thank you Doc Rose.
Hey brothers, just a short note to say that I am thinking of the greatest people I have known in my life. Today is Memorial Day and I remember many of you in the fondest ways. I am proud to be one of you and wish you all nothing but good thoughts. "DOC" "C","D" 1/35 68-69
Forrest J. "DOC" Olea -- Kelso WA USA -- 05/31/2004 Email
Great job on the web page. I am looking for anyone who may have known my father Earl Warren Merriman. He served with the 35 INF RGt 25 INF DIV in Korea. He is listed KIA on April 24, 1951. There is a great deal of misinformation or else no information surrounding his death. I have two sons serving in the military today, but I am sorry not in the Army. Thomas Ziegler is a Marine Corp Captain,Desert Storm and being deployed to either Iraq or Alghanistan and Gregory Ziegler is Navy EOD just back from operations in the gulf. Greg just finished jump school at Fort Benning, GA and found this website for me. Both are very proud of their grandfather and hope to have any information possible. I am very proud of all the troups in both Iraq and Afghanistan and followed their every step. Professional, dedicated and well trained. Thank you Cacti, thank you all for your unwavering loyality, devotion and sacrifice. Pls e-mail me at Elaine_Ziegler@csx.com
Haze Howard III was my oldest brother. He served and I still serve with the Texas AIR Nat. Guard as the chief dental surgeon as I enter the sunset of my career. I want to personally thank you for establishing this site and keeping alive the memory of the men who gave their all for this wonderful country of ours.
Sincerely in service
Ltc Milton L. Howard -- LaMarque tx USA -- 05/31/2004 Email
Yesterday on a perfect sunny day, I sat in the shade along the reflecting pool and observed America at it's finest. Yesterday we finally honored WWII veterans. It was a bit late perhaps but it was awesome. Yesterday I saw 80+ year old men march in a step that their wives had forgotten and their children and grandchildren had never seen before. Yesterday I saw the pure pride of America. We don't see that enough anymore. It was awesome.
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 05/30/2004 Email
Hey Ben, I just wanted to thank all youse guys for what youve been doing. It really makes me proud to be a part of the "old Fart" part of the Cacti.
I am looking forward to Orlando and am wandering if Charlie Rock is going to have a "get together lunch" again.
Jon Amundson -- Greensboro nc USA -- 05/30/2004 Email
I wonder if anyone knew my uncle Harold Christy. I understand that he was KIA in Luzon on 2/2/45. He is not listed in your KIA. Co. B 35th Inf. 25th Div.
Curt Christy -- Phoenix Az USA -- 05/27/2004 Email
Hey Bravo Co Cacti: Anyone from 2/35 remember Dan Ossage from the late '67 to mid '68 era? Dan was from Cincinnati area, somewhere in Kentucky, I believe. See you in Orlando
Steve Rainbolt -- Plainfield IN USA -- 05/27/2004 Email
Roger, Dick Arnold informed me that another guy from yall's unit supplied the picture not any family member. Have you tried to find the family?
Hey Cacti: Looking for any association member(s) who reside in or near the Charolletsville, Virginia area. I need your help locating a good friend and former A Co, 2/35 grunt, who apparently stepped off the face of the earth, somewhere near there.
Steve Rainbolt -- Plainfield IN USA -- 05/24/2004 Email
Fellow Cacti: I have removed several guestbook postings which I considered to be political. This action in no way agrees or disagrees with those postings. Ours is a non-political website and association, and we don't allow political statements of any kind here.
The Cacti Times Summer issue is in the final stages of publishing and will be mailed out shortly. Remember only members in good standing with paid up dues will recieve their copy. If you have not joined or if your dues are not paid up you will miss this great issue. To all those who visit this great website please remember it is part of the expense of the association so consider joining soon if you are not a member.
I often have reason to refer to the 35th Inf Reg. Association "Timeline". I notice that there are many months from 1966 through 1969 where there are no entries made. It may be that if you do not see a particular month listed in the viewing matrix that you think that you cannot make an entry for that month. This is not so. You can make an entry for any month that you would like to do so. I'd like to encourage all you Cacti out there to help fill in those gaps. There are official records for our entire period in Vietnam but they often shortcut what we were experiencing. The true history of our units also includes what individuals saw and did. I encourage you all to contribute to this history before it is lost to us forever. Thanks Doc
Jim Doc Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 05/23/2004 Email
Danang, 66-67, USN. LCM8 boat crew hauling anything that needed to be moved along the coast and the harbor.
robert Johnson -- Pearland tx USA -- 05/21/2004 Email
Looking for any information on SGT Harold Crabtree, HHC/35th, who was executed by firing squad in May/June 1945.
I sent my first letter a couple weeks ago and sent my first
"care package" to my "adopted" soldier about a week ago. Once I got it in the mail, it really made me feel good. Here I am in the safety and comfort of my own home, knowing full well what my soldier is going through. I'm sure you remember what it was like in the field, miserable because you were tired, dirty, hot, cold, thirsty, hungry, itchy and scared half the time - well, most of the time, and did I say tired? Getting a package from home, from anyone, really made your day. Now is your chance to make someone's day. If you haven't gotten hooked up with an active soldier in Afghanistan, and if you were a Bravo, contact Pete Birrow (below). If you were in another company or even if you didn't serve at all, contact Ben Youmans and he'll put you in contact with the right person. It'll make you feel good as you make a big difference in a grunt's day of hardships.
John Lorts -- Virginia Beach VA USA -- 05/19/2004 Email
Hey all you old Bravo (or Baker or Bullrock) guys. We need your help! As many of you know by now our active brothers are in Afghanistan. As they place themselves in harms way we need to do what we can do to show our support for them. These are outstanding young men! Pete Birrow, John Lorts and I are organizing a support committee for the active Bravo (actually they call themselves Bullrocks these days). We need guys to help us communicate with each of these young men. We need guys to help us make sure that these guys receive "goodies" packages with some regularity to help brighten their days. We need for each of you to step forward to give us a hand with this. Give me or Pete or John a shout and we will be happy to guide you in support of these Brothers. Please contact me at the e-mail return address below. Don't sit on the sidelines for this one we need you now. (ACTUALLY WE NEED SUPPORT FOR ALL THE COMPANIES OF THE REGIMENT. IF YOU WISH TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR ANY COMPANY OF THE REGIMENT LET ME KNOW AND I WILL POINT YOU IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.) Thanks, Doc Hall, Pete Birrow, John Lorts
Bravo 2/35 Fourth Annual Luncheon. Last year in Buffalo, we had a fantastic B 2/35 company luncheon on the shores of Lake Erie. 64 Bravo's and guests enjoyed a beautiful sunny afternoon on an outdoor patio. This year, my Bravo Brothers, we will be in sunny Florida in July! Time to head inside for some ice-cold air conditioning and an ice-cold beer. Be there at The Black Angus Steak House in Kissimmee at 1pm on Friday, July 30. 2004 for our 4th Annual Bravo Luncheon! The Black Angus Steak House is conveniently located within walking distance of our hotel (no convoy required) so we will be able to hump right over for a great luncheon. GM Joe Del Rosso promises us a great time at a reasonable cost. This year, we will be able to order off of the luncheon menu for under $10! Joe has everything on this luncheon menu from steak burgers, fish sandwiches or pizza to chicken, ham, pork or prime rib entrees! Here's the deal: No up front money is needed this year, however, I do need to know how many will be attending. Joe has a very large restaurant that has different seating areas. Please e-mail, call, write, fax, etc me before July 23rd so that we can give him an accurate head-count by the end of that week. Lets try to break the record for attendance that we set last year and see if we can come up with numbers to equal two platoons! Tell your Bravo friends about this great event. You guys are great and your families are even greater; lets get together again this July. Stay in touch until then. "Cacti Forever - But Bravo to the Core"!! Peter Birrow 68/69. e-mail; birrowp@comcast.net phone: 978-649-6562 (H) 617-222-3607 (W) fax: 617-222-8309 (W)
I just want to say you have done a GREAT job on this site. It brings tears to my eyes reflecting back on the exsperianses and the sisters and brothers in arms.
Wish to thank Ben youmans and all who worked with him on this,also for the info he emails us. Cacti always,Jerry
Gerald E. Launderville -- Maplewood Mn USA -- 05/18/2004 Email
Hello Cacti, Update from Afghanistan as follows:
1. Men have arrived on ground and are already conducting combat and stability and support operations within our given area of responsability (AOR). The morale is high and everyone in the unit is doing their part.
2. Photos are being taken on missions and day to day operations. Our commo section has been tasked w/sorting them out by company before posting them to the web page. Be patient.
3. Once our missions get declassified, I will be able to give you a better sitrep on what is going on, and what we are doing.
4. I can tell you that we recieved an excellent transition from the outgoing unit 2-22IN (10th Mtn Div) (Triple Nickel) stationed out of Fort Drum, New York. The men are working well with the local govermental and military forces to ensure that there is a stable environment for the country to rebuild. Joint security and combat related patrols are being executed on a daily basis, greatly enhancing the stability of the region.
5. Afghanistan has been rocked by over 25 years of war. Most Afghans are tired of it and want this rebuilding/ restructuring process to work. The 2-35th Infantry is doing our part and will continue to represent the "Cacti" with the highest of standards. I will keep you posted/updated.
"Take Arms"
MAJ Joe Walsh
Bn Executive Officer
"Cacti-5"
For the 2004 Reunion there's a coupon for Mears Transportation for shuttle transportation between the Orlando Airport and the Ramada Plaza. The coupon has a date valid for July 20th through August 10th 2003 (not 2004). Dave Fogg brought this to my attention last week. I contacted Mears and they indicated that they will honor the coupon regardless of the date. Let me know of any problems with Mears and the coupons and I'll be able to take care of them.
Doc J
Don Johnson -- Baton Rouge LA USA -- 05/14/2004 Email
HiFrank Kruczynski here i was with med co 35th in 49 &50,had a visit from Richard Ziemba who was with med in Japan and Korea, if there are any members of med co 35h from 49 & 50 i woild like to hear from you and if there is anyone who whas an email adderess for takakawa from hawai i would like to have it Thank you
Frank N Kruczynski
Sfc USA Retitred
Frank N Kruczynski -- aberdeen md USA -- 05/14/2004 Email
The father of PFC Thomas Minogue
Charlie Company
2nd Battalion
35th Infantry Regiment
KIA 03/21/1967 Kontum Province
MINOGUE-John M. On May 13, 2004, he was 90. Retired officer NYPD and CBS recording studio. Former long time resident of Inwood, NY and present resident of Long Beach, NY. Beloved husband of Mary (nee Reardon). Loving father of Kevin, John, Robert, Donald and the late Thomas. Cherished grandfather of 11 and great-grandfather of 8. Adored uncle of many nieces and nephews. Reposing RIVERDALE FUNERAL HOME, 5044 Broadway @ 214 St., NYC, Friday, 2-5 & 7-9 PM. Funeral Mass at the Good Shepherd R.C. Church, Saturday, 10 AM. Interment Gate of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to the Good Shepherd R.C. Church, 608 Isham St., NYNY, 10034.
I'm looking for Terry Savely from Oklahoma. Via Ft. Huachucha, AZ...then Viet Nam...then Houston, TX./
chuck nelson -- nipomno CA USA -- 05/13/2004 Email
IT'S GETTING TO BE CRUNCH TIME ON OUR Pre- MEMORIAL DAY PROJECT. As you may or may not know we are trying to get memorial cards placed on the gravesites of any Vietnam KIA for which we have a grave site location but have no photo as of yet. We need help in the following states and cities: Arkansas: Forrest City; Wiseman - Colorado: Colorado Springs; Denver; Greeley; lakewood - Florida: Chumuckla; Hialeah; Jacksonville; Orlando; Palatka; Tavaras;Winter Garden - Georgia: Atlanta; Carrollton; Cartersville; Dallas; Eatonton; Fitzgerald; Folkston; LaGrange; Marrietta; McRae; Valdosta - Iowa - DesMoines - Illinois: Belleville; Chicago; Edwardsville; Evergreen Park; Hillside; Niles; Pawnee; Wapella - Kentucky: Henderson; Louisville; Southgate; Winchester - Louisiana: Albany; Franklin; Plaquemine - Michigan: Benton Harbor; Buchanan; Detroit; Flat Rock; Grandville; Mt. Clemens; Muskegon; Rochester; Warren - Minnesota: Anoka; Coleraine; Duluth; St Paul - Missouri: Crystal City: kirksville; St. Louis - Mississippi: Fulton; Sardis - Montana: Joliet - North Carolina: Abbotsburg; Brevard; Cameron; Cayton; Charlotte; Fair Bluff; Fayetteville; Gastonia; Kings Mountain; Mt Holly; Raleigh; Southern Pines - New Mexico: Gallup; Santa Fe - Ohio: Byron; Grove; Huntsville; Toledo; Uhrichville; Wellston - Pennsylvania: Coraopolis; Smicksburg - South Carolina: Greenville County; Johns Island; Landsford; Pickens - Tennessee: Lafayette - Virginia: Arlington; Buena Vista; Danville; Jewell Ridge; Richmond; Ringold; Roanoke - Wisconsin: Kenosha; Milwaukee; Wyeville - West Virginia: Bluefield; Ona; Sophia ----I WILL POST CALIFORNIA; NEW YORK AND TEXAS IN A SEPARATE POST ----- These pre Memorial Day grave site visits are to 1. Honor these Heroes and their families for the sacrifice that they made and 2. Provide a way for families and friends to become aware that we are honoring their loved ones. SO the visits should be before Memorial Day (so the memorial card will be there when they visit). I will e-mail you a copy of the memorial card. You will have to print it : trim it to size; have it laminated; and post it at the grave site. If you can do any of these please let me know at dochall35@yahoo.com Thanks Doc
Jim Doc Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 05/12/2004 Email
Received a letter from Adam Schoeneck (B 2/35). I had mailed him a couple of packages. He stated they needed envelopes, dip, babywipes, kleenex and snacks.
I have a cousin who is in afghan and his name is Chris Nelson and he is fighting to protect our country and he has a little girl on the way. He has to stay in afghan for a year well lets just hope and pray that he gets home safe and sound. And my class mates and I would like to say thank you for everyone who is fighting for our peace. We are the class of 2006 and we go to Lynn High School.Well we all hope that everyone gets home safe and sound. WE love you all!!!!
Tonya Phillips -- Smithville AR USA -- 05/11/2004 Email
My brother Bill was in the 35th inf. reg. and was killed in Vietnman on May 29th, 1967. Thanks for remembering him.
claudette moniz -- east prov. ri USA -- 05/10/2004 Email
Dick Matheis from Adams, MN. Bravo Co. 2/35th. Born May 7, 1950 KIA May 8, 1970 in Cambodia. We remember you this day and every day and we miss you old Friend. Rest in Peace. 1st platoon Bravo Co. 2/35th
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 05/09/2004 Email
OK CACTI, I've received the 1st hotel report from the Ramada Plaza in Kissimmee,FL and we have 138 rooms booked for a whopping 579 room nights. And this is only the 1st week in May! This is going to be our biggest yet, so if you haven't sent in your registration form or made your hotel reservations yet.... get going. Let's not wait until the last minute!!!!!
Doc Johnson -- Baton Rouge LA USA -- 05/08/2004 Email
Hey any Cacti members in Minnesota? I was in A Co. 1/35 then went to HHC after an injury I was in country 1/67 to 1/68. I ended up as RTO for Capt. Becher and then Capt. Baker in S-4 Any one remember me or live in the great state of Minnesota drop me an E-Mail. Or even if you do not remember or live in MN. Do not forget Sunday is Mothers day visit or say a prayer for your Mom. They went through a rough year when we were over there. I will visit my Moms grave and say a prayer. You Bet.
Jack Wagner -- Detroit Lakes MN USA -- 05/07/2004 Email
Any one have any pull or contacts for smokeless tobacco. In big demand by our Cacti in Afghan. Either donations from a company or discounts. Let me know.
O.K. I finally did it. I adopted a cacti soldier in Afghanistan. I just got through writing the first letter to him inquiring about what he wants in a care package. Come on guys. I too procrastinate, but if I can do it,
you all can too! It only took about fifteen minutes to bang out a short letter to him. Just think back to how good it felt to get a package from home. Hell you all probably helped your best buddy polish off his cookies and goodies too!
Dan LaRoche -- East Wenatchee WA USA -- 05/05/2004 Email
Hi: Who knows Herman D.Logan? 1967-68 Duc Pho area A/2/35.
1968[july]sent to Turkey[Chakmakli].
Roberto Albandoz -- Canovanas P. USA -- 05/03/2004 Email
In memory of ALBERT KNOX JR 35TH INFANTRY REGIMENT 25TH INFANTRY DIVISION
Bellevue Veterans Club
Bellevue KY
Al Schutte -- Cincinnati OH USA -- 05/02/2004 Email
Hi Guys, We have an important project and we need your help. Over the past couple of years the Association has been working on a couple of projects. One of these is our attempt to collect photo's for each of our Vietnam KIA's. The second is an attempt to locate the burial place for each of our Vietnam KIA's. So far we have been able to find photo's of just under 300 or our approximate 630 KIA's. At the same time we have been able to identify the grave site locations of approximately 475 of our heroes. With Memorial Day fast approaching we would like to try put both of these things together to honor our old friends. Our heroes are buried in 45 out of the 50 states and a as well as Puerto Rico , Guam, and Canada. (To date we have found no one buried in AK, CT, NV, VT, or WY). We need volunteers in all the other 45 states to help us place memorials on the grave sites of our old friends prior to Memorial Day. We will e-mail you the Memorial card to be printed on your printer and you will have to get it laminated locally. We hope at a minimum to place these memorials on the approximately 200 graves for which we have no KIA photo prior to Memorial Day so that family or friends will know about and contact us. If you can assist us in this important project please contact me at the e-mail address below. Thanks. Doc
Jim Doc Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 05/02/2004 Email
One of our Cacti Brothers, Bob "Mitch" Mitchell (B Co 2/35th 1969/70)is having a pretty rough time of it right now. (Mitch was at our Kansas City and Buffalo Reunions) He was just recovering from some minor (if there are such a thing) strokes and now he is in the hospital trying to get in shape enough to undergo an operation for a partial bowel obstruction. It looks like he will be in the hospital for 7 to 10 days more and then will have a fairly long recovery period. I know that he would welcome hearing from anyone and please keep him in your prayers. He can be reached while in the hospital at: Bob Mitchell/ C/O Mary Rutan Hospital/ Room 3108B/ 205 Palmer Ave/ Bellefontaine, OH 43311.
In addition Mr. Jim Wright father of Mike Wright (Bravo 2/35th 1969/70)(they both attended our reunions in Seattle and Buffalo and if you met Mr. Wright you will remember him as he is quite the character) Mr. Wright is having a lot of kidney problems and is not doing very well medically. (Mike says though that he is in very good spirits and is a fighter) Please keep Mr. Wright and Mike in your prayers also. Thanks Doc Hall
Jim Doc Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 05/02/2004 Email
HEY brothers..was in C co,1/35 june 69-nov 69..Would love to touch base with anyone who remembers me..I carried M60 for 3rd plt.Am in process of joining this assoc.Is the reunion in Fla. this year(o4)? Would like to attend..
martin reagan -- sykesville MD USA -- 05/01/2004 Email
Jim Leighton. I tried to respond to your e-mail tonight but got a return mail problem because it appears that your box is full. Please get back to me when it is clear and I will try and help you. Thanks Doc Hall
Jim Doc Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 04/29/2004 Email
Just wanted to say Hi and say nice site. I was with the 64th FA Bn supporting the 35th when we landed at Pusan.
Chester Ball 1st Sgt.
Retired
HHC CACTI guys...lets pull together to support our troops on their mission. Get in touch with me if you can help.HHC is a pretty small group of us older guys so I can use your help.
take care
ts
TOC 2/35th 8-68/8-69
terry savely -- sugar land tx USA -- 04/23/2004 Email
I am still trying to locate men from C Company, 35th Infantry Regiment who might have known my Great Uncle, Sgt. Stanley Ciemiega. Stanley enlisted on December 6, 1940 and was KIA outside of Kapintilan, Balete Pass on April 17, 1945. He was friends with Marion Hyder, Phillip DiMaria, and maybe Phil Plosaj. Stanley was a Polish kid from Mass. I need to find someone who fought with him on Luzon. Thanks.
Cacti! Today, April 19th, SP4 Dennis Richard Podgorny A/1/35th Infantry Regiment, would have celebrated his 56th birthday. Tragically, due to what was to happen on 9th of November 1967, this will not be. I never had the Honor, and fortune, to have met or known SP4 Podgorny. But as I celebrate my own birthday, I think of him, and of what could have been... And in time, when "my own time has come", perhaps SP4 Podgorny and I, will share a birthdaycake together. SP4 Dennis Richard Podgorny, Sir! Your name is still spoken, in prayers. Hand Salute! A.B
It is a great honor to be a part of the Cacti family. Being the wife of an active duty serviceman, I know that deployments will come, but I take great pride and comfort knowing that it is with this unit. My children and I will continue to pray for our soldiers daily. May God Bless all of you.
Lisa M. Bruce -- Ewa Beach HI USA -- 04/19/2004 Email
Every veteran of this battalion makes me proud to call myself a former NCO of the Cacti.
Take Arms!
Cacti
Richard A. Bennett IV -- Irwin PA USA -- 04/18/2004 Email
Roy, the action is on the TimeLine. Not sure what more you are wanting done. The PH orders were recieved but back then they didnt use SSN's so it is almost impossible to trace the names to try and find the others. If there is more to be told then please put it on the timeline. Only the ones who were there at the time can tell the story. Cacti Forever.
apr 18 1966 at the beginning of operation paul revere a co 2/35 was helelifted into the area of ple jarong spfc forces camp on the river bn co ltc scott co cmdr cpt barns plt ldr lt pederson plt sgt hopkins(later kia)myself and 17 others were wia medivaced to the 85th in quion yong i guess every thing that was going on at the time overshadowed this event but there is no mention of this action any where in cacti history im sure that i and 17 other caci blue will never forget this day in 1966 i mailed the orders for the purple heart on these guy to ben and have never heard any thing more about it 1sg roy l greenfeather ret
Hey all you old Bravo (or Baker or Bullrock) guys. We need your help! As many of you know by now our active brothers are on their way to Afghanistan. As they place themselves in harms way we need to do what we can do to show our support for them. These are outstanding young men! Pete Birrow, John Lorts and I are organizing a support committee for the active Bravo (actually they call themselves Bullrocks these days). We need guys to help us communicate with each of these young men. We need guys to help us make sure that these guys receive "goodies" packages with some regularity to help brighten their days.
We need for each of you to step forward to give us a hand with this. Give me or Pete or John a shout and we will be happy to guide you in support of these Brothers. Please contact me at the e-mail return address below. Don't sit on the sidelines for this one we need you now. (ACTUALLY WE NEED SUPPORT FOR ALL THE COMPANIES OF THE REGIMENT. IF YOU WISH TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR ANY COMPANY OF THE REGIMENT LET ME KNOW AND I WILL POINT YOU IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.) Thanks, Doc Hall
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 04/14/2004 Email
I served in C 2/35 3rd plt.CACTI 25th ID Schofield Barracks Hi Feb-95- Aug-98. Looking for Brian Gossard/Darrell Beasley.jjanzen@bak.rr.com
J. Janzen -- Bakersfield Ca USA -- 04/13/2004 Email
If you are reading this it means that the first elements of 2-35 are wheels up and on their way east. I'd like to say thanks for all the exceptional support that we've been receiving from the association as we've prepared to deploy. The guys got back from block leave to find stacks of Cacti newsletters crammed with sage advice and best wishes all over the battalion. I think the piece that stuck with them the most was the "10 things to do when you're too exhausted to do anything else" (dig a hole, clean your weapon and keep digging). Again, thanks for the exceptional support on the homefront and for keeping us all in your thoughts and prayers. "Take Arms!"
Will O'Brien -- Schofield Barracks HI USA -- 04/13/2004 Email
Hello to all who may read this message. I want to thank all, who has made my day. By having the ability to lead. And give us the great opportunity, to share , and recover some of our past and great history... that one time i suppose; i tried to forget some impersonal moments of the time. I especial want to thank Cati Ben who gives me updates on my e mail. of ongoing events. Cati forever...... charles n. rea..c company 2/35th. even though i only spent one week in the first platoon, im yours ,also a long and hard mos . in the forth Platoon. and, some of my most enduring moments with third platoon. . Welcome Home to all.
Charles Neal Rea -- Harrison Ar USA -- 04/13/2004 Email
O.K. Guys, I know I have asked in the past but here goes again. Do any of you remember the "Blue Team" We were volunteers from the 2/35th that made up a platoon size group stationed at DucPho firebase. We mainly got sent on ambushes since there were never any available choppers for us to use. I spent about 3 months there. The unit was formed about June 67 disbanded before Thanksgiving 67, and everyone went back to their original units. (mine was C-2/25th) We had a Jewish Lt. great guy, I was his RTO but I can't remember his name. We were attached to the Armored Cav unit. Can't remember but it was either the 10th or the 3/4. Red hair guy from Milwaukee Oregon, surfer from Calif. Names are long gone from my memory. Please reply if you recall. Dan LaRoche C-25th Apr. 67-68
Dan LaRoche -- East Wenatchee WA USA -- 04/11/2004 Email
I am Looking for anyone who served with A-1/35 and also anyone that served with HHC-1/35 that remembers me.In A-Company I was in the 4th.Platoon or What was known as Weapons Platoon from 11-14-67 until approxamently 5-15-68.I volunteered to be a Cook in the messhall at LZ Baldy.I stayed attached to Alpha with duty as a Cook and Believe me I made sure A-1/35 got all the food I could send them .I was always partial to those Guys.They were my true Brothers.I was finnaly re-assigned to HHC in 1969.If anyone remembers me please E-mail me or call me at 804-762-9330 0r 804-543-1555.Welcome HOME to all that were there.I wish a Happy Easter to All.I can Remember Cpt.Chaplanski,Firt Shirt Carney,but most of all My Dearest Friend Emeroy Stephen Cannon KIA 1-11-69.Rest In Peace Brother.I'll never forget you or any other that gave it All.God Bless Each and Every Person who served Then and Now.Proud to be An American and if I Had to do it over just call my Name.Over and Out here.Thanks for Help in Advance.Always Cacti
Dave A. Loudermilk -- Richmond Va USA -- 04/09/2004 Email -- http://None
David Hutchings, A 2/35th, was killed-in-action 6/20/66 along with four other soldiers. His sister is eager to talk to anyone who knew David.
Here name is Kate Butcher, butcherkate@hotmail.com
She lives in Frankton, In.
Thanks, Dick
Hey guys, here is the old doc back to say hi. I mainly want to wish everyone a good spring and let all of my brothers that were on Mile High in the middle of April "68" to know that I am proud to have known many of you. I was fortunate not to have been there at the time. I came just after. This is for some a time of year that is forever etched in their minds. I would like to say that I will be saying a prayer for all that were lost and for those that are with us now. May all of you from "A", "B", "C", "D" 1/35, know that you will always be held in the highest esteem by the old "DOC".
Forrest J. Olea "DOC" -- Kelso WA USA -- 04/07/2004 Email
I am helping a friend find info about his brother, Norman Kaminga, who was killed in Korea 1 Sept 1950. We can't seem to narrow down his company. We think that it was co. G.
Michael Proctor -- rockport tx USA -- 04/06/2004 Email
In the email change the (at) to @
The Spring 2004 Cacti Times NewsMagazine is in the mail. You should be recieveing yours (if a Member in good standing) this week. They are shipped Bulk Mail rate so can take from 3 days to 3 weeks. They were mailed last week. Let me know if you recieve yours, name, city and state and if you dont have yours by April 15 let me know.
Cacti Forever
Paul Watson -- Muskegon Mi USA -- 04/02/2004 Email
Following actions taken.
Cacti Times mailed to Jon Inglethron and Harold Burrell. Both added to roster. Cassler and Orr already on rosters. Joe Farmer was sent contact info for Hoelle. Other requests should be sent to me regarding membership, Cacti Times, or contact info at C23568@verizon.net
Cacti Forever
I WAS WITH THE D CO. 2NDOF 35TH 2ND PLATOON LOOKING FOR FELLOW BUDDIES I WAS WITH IN VIETNAM ..... SEPT.67/SEPT 68...HOPE TO HEAR FROM YOU SOON...
ROBERT G ORR -- HUBBARD OH USA -- 04/01/2004 Email
Fellow Cacti: At our upcoming reunion in Orlando we will have our 2nd Annual B 1/35th Luncheon. And if you are a disenfranchized Cacti (for our Rio Linda vets, that means that you are 1st Battalion and don't have a company luncheon to go to) come on out to ours! If you want some good eats and good company, send me an email to let me know that you will be joining us. Restaurant and menu details will be forthcoming as soon as I can get hold of enough Captain Video decoder rings for everyone. P.S. Leave your entrenching tools at home. The restaurant has facilities.
I saw that Bill Hoelle, B 1/35 is an annual member. We served together. Bill, if you read this drop me a line at
j-farmer@sbcglobal.net
Joe
Joe Farmer -- Scotts Valley CA USA -- 03/31/2004 Email
E Co 35th 1950-1951
David O. Cassler -- Phillipsburg, PA USA -- 03/31/2004 Email
Was part of the Division-Exch with 25th Inf.into B Co, 1/35th at Duc Pho From Aug 67 as 11B10 squad leader until Feb 68, then as Asst.Company clerk under CPT Donald C Reh, then PIO near Kontum until Jul 68. Not much info out there on us in spite of heavy enemy contact. From Albany,CA at the time. Want info on archives for Cacti News paper distributed in country for May,Jun,Jul,of '67. And,contact with anyone there at that time.
pfc Jon Ingenthron -- Tucson AZ USA -- 03/30/2004 Email
Harold Burrell, your email is not vaid. We are sincerely interested in contacting you; please resign with correct email. Thanks, Dick
I was with the 1/35 Co A at camp enari (dragon mtn) in pleiku province 1968 /69 ,seen some action in Dakto and Kontum , drop me a line some time
Harold Burrell -- aurora co USA -- 03/27/2004 Email
Thanks for putting the pictures of 2/35 RECON 69-70 on the web site. I hope the guys can recognize themselves.
Leigh Thomas
Leigh Thomas -- Tonasket WA USA -- 03/26/2004 Email
I greatly appreciate what Bravo Co-2/35th Inf.64-67-Vietnam- has done. Sgt. John H. King, my gradfather, served with Bravo company, I would like to thank the rest of his company for taking care of him in the field.....because of your actions you gave me the chance to know my grandfather, my best friend, and I thank you for that. My prayers are with you all.
Sophia Nix -- Colorado springs co USA -- 03/24/2004 Email
stanley, your email is not complete, I can give you info on contacting david estes. email me.
byoumans@kforce.com
Ben Youmans sec/treasuer
stanley hallman -- shreveport la USA -- 03/23/2004 Email
Fellow Cacti and Families: We have just added hundreds of photographs of Cacti in Vietnam and Korea. Go to the Photographs section, under Regiment on the main menu.
Bravo 2/35
Fourth Annual Luncheon.
Last year in Buffalo, we had a fantastic B 2/35 company luncheon on the shores of Lake Erie. 64 Bravo's and guests enjoyed a beautiful sunny afternoon on an outdoor patio. This year, my Bravo Brothers, we will be in sunny Florida in July! Time to head inside for some ice-cold air conditioning and an ice-cold beer. Be there at The Black Angus Steak House in Kissimmee at 1pm on Friday, July 30. 2004 for our 4th Annual Bravo Luncheon!
The Black Angus Steak House is conveniently located within walking distance of our hotel (no convoy required) so we will be able to hump right over for a great luncheon. GM Joe Del Rosso promises us a great time at a reasonable cost. This year, we will be able to order off of the luncheon menu for under $10! Joe has everything on this luncheon menu from steak burgers, fish sandwiches or pizza to chicken, ham, pork or prime rib entrees!
Here's the deal: No up front money is needed this year, however, I do need to know how many will be attending. Joe has a very large restaurant that has different seating areas. Please e-mail, call, write, fax, etc me before July 23rd so that we can give him an accurate head-count by the end of that week.
Lets try to break the record for attendance that we set last year and see if we can come up with numbers to equal two platoons! Tell your Bravo friends about this great event. You guys are great and your families are even greater; lets get together again this July. Stay in touch until then. "Cacti Forever - But Bravo to the Core"!!
Peter Birrow 68/69.
e-mail; birrowp@comcast.net
phone: 978-649-6562 (H)
617-222-3607 (W)
fax: 617-222-8309 (W)
BRAVO 2/35 LUNCHEON -- "BEE" THERE -- CA FOREVER!!! -- 03/22/2004 Email
20 Brave Cacti lost their lives 37 years ago today. Charlie Company 2/35 endured the battle of "One-Niner." Please do not forget them. Read this history :
http://www.cacti35th.org/regiment/history/aars/aar235/aar_march_21_1967.htm
http://www.cacti35th.org/regiment/history/journals/6703/03216701.htm
Peter J Birrow B 2/35 68/69 -- Tyngsboro MA USA -- 03/21/2004 Email
It was 37 years ago today that you left this earth. I salute you, my old friend. God's eternal love and blessings to Guye Benson of Kemp, Texas.
I was an FO from the 2/11th arty, a 155bn in indirect support. I was with several different infantry companies in 67-68. Fall '67 was with CPT Wolfgang Boettcher and the men of Delta 1/35th. Welcome home, brothers. Memories are hazy. I remember Doc Duggan at Sa Huynh (1/14th? 1/35th?, 2/35th?)Jack Frost from Texas? LT Acquaviva? LT Fong? The best to all of you Cacti then and now. Ex-LT Muller.
Juri Muller -- Landenberg Pa USA -- 03/21/2004 Email
I served with B Company 1/35th in Vietnam from 1965-1966 and just now came across your web site, all I can say is what a great job everyone has done in putting this all together. Also I was wondering if the Jerry W. Parker is the Jerry Parker from Louisiana who always carried a movie camera, maybe he is the person I served with in Vietnam. Again great job, and keep up the good work!! GO CACTI!!!!!!
Donald J. Sternhagen -- Marion Io USA -- 03/17/2004 Email
The Cacti Times Magazine lastest issue Winter 2004 is in the mail. It has mucho info on our Cacti deploying to Afghanistan and how you can help. It goes out to all paid up members.
Enjoy
Am looking for anyone who served with Doc; a medic in D. Co., 2nd. Bn. in 1967-68 in Viet Nam. His name was Frank Fettuccia.
Would appreciate greatly stories or fotos of him; can share the same.
Many thanks.
Maureen Monteiro -- Endicott NY USA -- 03/16/2004 Email
Doc ellis get me your mail address so I can send you our CactiTimes NewsMagazine and info on the reunion.
your email does not show up.
1/35th, HHC Medic Plt. Schofield to Nam God Bless us all. Retired Cpt MI 1980
Roger A. (DOC) Ellis -- Trinity fl USA -- 03/16/2004 Email
If anyone served w/PFC Frank Fettuccia; medic; 2nd. BN in 'Nam in 1968 or knew of him, has stories or fotos to exchange, please contact me.
Many thanks and God Bless.
maureen Monteiro. -- Endicott NY USA -- 03/14/2004 Email
Maureen Monteiro is asking for anyone who knew PFC Frank Fettuccia, D Co. 2/35th, to contact her. Frank was from Endicott, New York, and is listed as KIA March 1, 1968 from wounds sustained in a Feb. 12 mine explosion. If you have any information about Fettuccia that you can share with Maureen, please contact her at hermengi@yahoo.com
Bill Henson -- Rocky River OH USA -- 03/14/2004 Email
Would like to hear from some of my budies.Was in Schofield Barracks in 1942. Guadalcanal Nov 1942
Vella LaVellla
New Zealand RR 1943
Phillipines 1944
Discharged Oct 1945 on points
I just made my reservation for Orlando and will be riding
the bike down to the reunion again this year,looking
forward to seeing everybody again.
Roger Stitt
Hello everyone. We've sold our business, and all property along with e-mail address. Being e-mail challenged It has taken me from December till now to try and reconnect. I have some time on my hands since I am in post-op recovery stage from some plumbing procedures, on me that is. Look forward to hearing from you guys. Looking forward to the Floriday reunion.
Chaplain Charlie Marshall
Charlie Marshall -- Springbrook WI USA -- 03/12/2004 Email
Hello All,
Jake Simmons was with C, 1/35th and KIA 10/25/66 along with Jimmie Taylor and Coleman Warren. They were operating in convoy with the 3/4 Cav and hit a mine on Route 568 about 8 klicks from Plei Djereng.
Jake was from Baytown, TX. Job Gonzalez is doing a project on all the veterans from that city killed in Vietnam. If you knew Jake, please email Job at: job@mxros.com
Thanks, Dick
Your site is a wonderfully thoughtful and appropriate commemoration to the gallant members of your regiment, those who have served and those who have paid with the ultimate sacrifice. I am deeply touched and appreciative. Thank you,
David Hale
David R. Hale -- Dayton OH USA -- 03/09/2004 Email
I would like to take the time to say thanks to all the Cacti, past, present and future for their faithful service to our great nation. Bravo Company had the pleasure of entertaining two of it's former members, (Rocco "Doc" De Rosa and Jon Lorts) during a squad live fire exercise this past week. Onbehalf of CPT Moyes, myself and the "BULLROCK" company, thank you and God Speed!
1SG CARL E. HOWARD -- Schofield Barracks HI USA -- 03/08/2004 Email
IT'S TIME!!!!! I just made my reservations for Orlando. It's time for you to do this too. Don't get caught up like some of us did in Buffalo and be scrambling for a room at the last minute. Some of us ended up 20 miles away from the reunion Hotel. Make your reservation now! If you think that you will attend then don't delay. You can always cancel if needed at a later date. The hotel this year is very near to Disney World. Bring the whole family and enjoy. For any first timers. You have nothing to fear! I can tell you now that You WILL have a great time but just for arguments sake let's say that you don't. Well you are right there at Disney and Epcot and a lot of other attractions. If you get too nervous you can just visit the attractions. My money says that you won't want to take time for too many attractions though. IT'S TIME!!!!!!
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 03/08/2004 Email
Larry Kettner...TOC 2/35th... if you are out there, break squelch twice. Pete Birrow and I trying to find you.
take care
ts
Terry Savey -- Sugar Land TX USA -- 03/08/2004 Email
I'm Larry Jackson's widow. I'm very proud of him.
If anyone has any information or pictures on Larry
Jackson please E-mail me at aj1200@earthlink.net
Alice Joan Jackson Stone -- Grayson Ky USA -- 03/07/2004 Email
I want to "second" the comments made by Doc DeRosa below. The troops and equipment of B 2/35 (Bullrocks) is absolutely second to none. I can't say enough about the officers and men of B 2/35, they truely represent the best that this great Country has to offer. I also took many pictures and will send them as well (no doubt there will be duplicates, so some editing will be in order.) Take Arms!!!
John Lorts -- Virginia Beach VA USA -- 03/06/2004 Email
This is Doc DeRosa again. I forgot to mention I took many pictures while at schofield barracks. I will put them on a disk and send them to Dave and ask him to add them to our web site. I'm sure you will enjoy looking at them.
Rocco Doc DeRosa -- Fountain Hills az USA -- 03/05/2004 Email
John Lorts and myself Rocco Doc DeRosa just got back from visiting the troops at Schofield barracks. Both John and I where with B Co 1st platoon 2/35th 66-67. Capt. Moyes B Co. commander was about as gracious to us as he could have been. B Co. was training at the grenade house while we where there. Lorts and I both thought we would have been asked to stand on the side lines and watch but that wasn't the case. We where given flack jackets and helmets and went along with the troops. What troops! These troops are highly motivated with very high moral.They are being trained by some of the finest officers and sargents I have seen. I wouldn't want to be on the receiving end when these troops are turned loose. Capt. Moyes assigned Sgt. Garner to be with us all day and night and take us where ever we wanted to go. He was outstanding, answering our constant barrage of questions especially about all the new equipment. We got to go into the armory and see the new weapons that will be used. We where even able to fire the SAW (machine gun) and M4 rifle both in daylight and night firings. I wish we had the night firing equipment back in Nam. They own the night. We where even able to meet LT. Col McBride and the First Sargent out at the range. Capt. Moyes let us talk to the troops and answer and questions they might have. This was an experience Lorts and I will never forget. On the drive back to our hotel we just looked at each other and said we couldn't believe what we just had done this day. We are so proud of these troops. Thanks again to all that let us have this experience. You guys will be in our prayers. Be safe and god bless! Rocco 'Doc' DeRosa
Rocco "Doc' DeRosa -- Fountain Hills AZ USA -- 03/05/2004 Email
Aloha and May God Bless Our deployed Service Members and their Families as we weather this journey together. May we grow stronger and be better for it.
Tonya Coleman -- Wahiawa HI USA -- 03/04/2004 Email
Important: Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Please see link: http://www.vvmf.org/index.cfm?SectionID=319
I would like to hear from anyone who remembers pvt.William
"Woodie" Cooper who was killed 1/13/43 on Guadalcanal.
He was my Grandfathers brother. I think he was in co.F
Does anyone remember any details of his death?
Randall Cooper -- Sweetwater TN USA -- 03/03/2004 Email
stanley email me at c23568@verizon.net
your email still does not work.
To all "A"Co.veterans and current members on active duty,we are preparing to support the deployment of the Unit.I have been asked to co-ordinate the effort for A Co.and I am asking for your help.The guys from 3d platoon '68-'69 should remember Mrs.Knoll and how she adopted us after her son was KIA.
Anyone interested can contact me at pwoconnorus@yahoo.com or phone (330) 898-8727 or snail mail at,
Patrick W. O'Connor
4672 Shanks-phalanx Rd.
Southington,Ohio
44470
hope to hear from many of you,thanks.
Patrick W.O'Connor -- southington Oh USA -- 02/29/2004 Email
Fellow Cacti, I'm writing to first tell you how proud I am to be associated with such a historical unit. I'm impressed w/the brotherhood and close bonds that have remained in effect over the many years of service to this great country. You all truly make this great association what it is today. I am looking forward to becoming a member and will keep in touch as possible in the upcoming months. I'm currently the XO of 2-35th Infantry stationed at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. As you probably know, we are ramping up for a year-long stint to Afghanistan. I want you to know the Cacti battalion remains at its peak in training and continues to set the standards for the rest of the brigade to follow. We remain prepared for whatever mission comes down from higher...and God willing, we'll have something to do with bringing Bin-Laden down as well! I ask you to keep us in your prayers during this trying time.
"Take Arms"
Maj Joe Walsh
XO, 2-35th Infantry
I was in the advance party from Schofield Barracks in December 1965. I also played Defensive End on the Brigade football team that went 10-0 prior to deploying. I was in B/1/35th from 1963 until I came home in May 1966. I played professional football for the San Diego Chargers and the New England Patriots 1971-76 after leaving Tennessee Tech Univ. in Cookeville, TN. I don't remember many names of the guys I served with, but would sure enjoy hearing from anyone who was there with me that can maybe jog my memory a bit. I'm using my buddy's computer and you can reply to me here. I was an 11B about 6'5" and maybe 190 lbs. at that time. I've downloaded an application and will be joining the Assn. very soon. Look forward to hearing from someone who remembers me. With warm regards to you all, JT
John V. Tanner -- Merritt Island FL USA -- 02/26/2004 Email
Wondering if some of you Korean war Vets remember Lt.Gene Milord who was platoon leader 1st platoon,co e,2nd bat.35th inf.reg.and had been in the hill 440 fight Feb.2-3 1951.I'm looking for SFC johnsrud or any other members of either first platoon or Easy company in this period who may have known him.I have been in touch with Ed Coleman of your association and he graciously sent me a report by s.l.a. marshall(the guy who wrote the book pork chop hill among others) about the taking of hill 440 and operation punch in Early feb. of '51.Any info would be appreciated.Thanks his son Jon
jon milord -- ridgefield ct USA -- 02/26/2004 Email
I would like to get in touch with;
Lary Juengst
Jack Jewel
Ed Marzucca
if they care to hear from me. Or, if anyone knows a phone number or E-mail address. Thanks.
Leigh Thomas
LEIGHT@AMERION.COM
509-486-1481
Leigh Thomas -- Okanogan County WA USA -- 02/22/2004 Email
Wayne Reynolds was a young Pfc in my squad circa 63-65 in Hawaii. Very young and the sort of soldier that gave squad leaders headaches. In a previous entry he credited me in helping him get straight and through this pages we came in contact after more than 30 years. Wayne did get straight and made a good life for himself and became a solid citizen. While in Hawaii he attended the Division Language School and went to Nam for 90 days for practical application. Last night I learned that Wayne was killed yesterday in a truck accident. Wayne drove for the US Postal Service. He was a fellow Cacti from B 2/35 and a resident of Georgia. Anyone that remember Wayne and want to send send a card or call, I have the contact info.
SGM(RET) Chuck Beauchamp -- Salem OR USA -- 02/19/2004 Email
Emails were sent to Joe, Morris and Leigh. Joe has hooked up with old buds from 35+ years ago already, Morris will be a member soon and havent heard back from Leigh who is a member already.
Updates
The Cacti Times is running late due to some print challenges. It should be mailed before the end of Feb.
The Cacti are deploying to Afghan and the Assn has a national program to provide them support. Contact me if interested.
2004 Annual dues are due, if you have not mailed them in yet please do so. Thank you
Take Arms.
Hello Brothers..I was in B co.35th Inf. 50-51---- Was Tran, form the all black 159FA to Baker Co. in the Fall of 1950 til the spring of 51..I was the first Black to serve in Baker Co. MO
Morris Penermon -- Detroit MI USA -- 02/15/2004 Email
Larry Jackson. KIA Jan 8. 1968. Larry is my uncle and I'm very Proud of him.It is good to see the pictures and read the information you have about him.
Dusty Jackson -- Grayson Ky USA -- 02/15/2004 Email
Looking for those I served with.
Joe Skillings -- Richfield Mn USA -- 02/14/2004 Email
Hi,
I finally have a telephone line and a computer. I found the web site. I am looking forward to contacting some of the guys I served with. RECON platoon 2/35 Dec 69 - Aug 70.
See ya.
LEIGH THOMAS -- TONASKET WA USA -- 02/13/2004 Email
Hi guys,I was in HHQ CO.3rd Bn.in korea.Maybe one of you can help me? I have a friend here who was in the 9th inf.div in Nam 1966-67.He has been trying to find out if they have a ASSOC.Where would I look? Thanks Ron (Baka)
The following obituary was published in the Albany (NY) Times Union on 02/13/04. http://www.legacy.com/timesunion-albany/LegacyHome.asp?Page=FullText
Joseph C. Bonacker
HOMOSASSA, Fla. Joseph C. Bonacker, 85, died February 10, 2004 at his residence under the loving care of his family and Hospice. Born January 7, 1919 in Rensselaer to Edward Bonacker and Eugenia Sedgewick Bonacker, Joseph was a retired carpenter, having worked for the State of N.Y. He and his wife moved from the Capital Region to Homosassa one year ago, having been snowbirds for 18 years. He served in the U.S. Army 35th Infantry during World War II, earning the Purple Heart. He was of the Catholic faith. He was a member of the DAV, Homosassa, Moose #2013 of Crystal River, a life member of the VFW Post 8189 in Crystal River and a member of the American Legion #1520, Zaloga Post, N.Y. Survivors, wife of 67 years Irene Lysiak Bonacker of Homosassa; son, Joseph E. (JoAnne) of Schenectady; daughters, Patricia (Ronald) Doedema of Schenectady and Port Richey, Fla., Joan (Louis) Liuzzi of Homosassa; 12 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandson; 11 step-great-grandchildren; sister, Marilyn Paju of Colonie; brother, Robert Gabriel of Texas. Predeceased by a brother, Edward Bonacker and a sister, Rita Herman. Memorial services at a later date in N.Y. Donations to Hospice of Citrus County, PO Box 641270, Beverly Hills, FL 34464.
Frederick R. Miller, PH1, USN Retired -- Ballston Spa NY USA -- 02/13/2004 Email
I AM A VETERAN OF WW2. MY WIFE AND I WILL BE IN WASHINGTON DC FOR THE WW2 MEMORIAL, HOW ABOUY YOU WW2 VETERAN.
CACTI PAUL A CO 35TH 1943 TO 1946
PAUL W, BAEHR -- LOS ANGELES CA USA -- 02/11/2004 Email
As in years past, on this day, Feb 9th, I pay my respects to those that paid the ultimate price. 36 years have past and I still can picture your faces. You were the best my brothers.... I still grieve your loss ...
To the familes and friends of those I speak of, may the God you worship bring you peace.
Today I remember: Mark Kaye, Sal Banaga,
Tom Backy, Jerry Novakovich, Bob Sharpless
Co C 1/35th
Cacti, Sir's!
With the Regiments reunion being held this coming July, I just wish to share some links with the Regiment. Links, that I hope will be of help to plan the actual travel, to the reunion. T G C!
Sincerely
A.B
Orlando airports:
http://www.orlandoairports.net:/goaa/main.htm
Orlando/Sanford Int. ntl AP:
http://www.orlandosanfordairport.com
Flightshedules and fares, multiple airlines:
http://www.usairways.com
American Airlines:
http://www.aa.com
United Airlines:
http://www.united.com
Delta Airlines:
http://www.delta.com
This morning's news said that they were hot on the trail of Osama Bin Laden. That they should get him in a month or 2. I can't help but feel that this detail should have been accomplished before any other sort of military action was taken. But in hindsight, if we wouldn't, have gotten Saddam, would Kaddafi still be a player on the bad guys team? But of course, its a true war, and any semblence of common sense has to take a back seat. I just pray for our military, and this world, that someday, they'd give peace a chance. j.c. B co. 2/35 1970 grunt/gunner
j.c. miskovich -- homestead pa USA -- 01/30/2004 Email
I am an 85 year old World War II veteran. A member of the 35th Infantry regiment- 25th Division who served in the Pacific Campaign. Vella Lavella-New Caledonia-Luzon. Your web site on the history of the 35th brought back many memories.
William E. Kirven -- Mobile Al USA -- 01/24/2004 Email
The Assn recieved a request from the 1SGT A Company 2-35th inf for some support from any Company A vets. Well we sent out the request to WW2, Korea and Vietnam Company A men and here is the 1sgt's thank you.
BEN,
I WANT TO TELL YOU HOW TERRIFIC THE RESPONSE TO MY REQUEST WAS. I GOT 18 REPLYS TODAY. YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW HAPPY THIS MADE ME. I AM GOING TO PRINT THESE OUT AND POST THEM ON THE BULLETIN BOARD SO EVERYONE CAN READ THEM. BELIEVE OR NOT ALOT OF MY MEN OWN COMPUTERS SO I AM GOING TO GET THEM GOING ON REPLYS. BEN I WAS WONDERING IF YOU WOULD LIKE ME TO SEND YOU SOME PHOTOS OF SOME OF THE MEN FROM OUR PAST 18 MONTHS OF DEPLOYMENTS. SOME OF THE PAST CACTI MIGHT SEE WE ARE NOT REALLY ANY DIFFERENT FROM THEM. THEY STILL LOOK REALLY YOUNG AND EAGER. I WILL TELL THAT OUR TRAINING IS TOP NOTCH. ONE OF THE REPLYS I GOT SAID THE EQUIPMENT THAT WE HAVE NOW WOULD HAVE BEEN LIKE STAR WARS BACK THEN. I ADMIT WE HAVE A LOT OF WHAT WE CALL TOYS. IT STILL HOWEVER BOILS DOWN TO A MAN A WEAPON HIS BRAIN AND WALKING A PATROL. NOW A DAYS EACH MAN HAS A SET OF NIGHT VISION GOGGLES(NVGs), A LASER ON HIS WEAPON THAT CAN ONLY BE SEEN AT NIGHT WITH NVGs AND SOMETYPE OF OPTIC ON HIS WEAPON. EVEN THE MACHINE GUNS HAVE LASERS. EVERY LEADER HAS A WALKIE TALKIE AND SPIDER MIC AND EAR BUD SO IT IS VERY QUIET. THESE ARE JUST SOME OF THINGS SOME OF THE MEMBERS WHO HAVE NOT KEPT UP WITH THE CURRENT EQUIPMENT. ONCE AGAIN I WANT TO THANKYOU FOR THE SUPPORT!!!!!!!!! WOULD YOU MIND IF I FUNNELED MY INFO TO THE ASSOCIATION THROUGH YOU? ALSO IF THERE ARE QUESTION THAT ANY OF THE MEMBERS WOULD LIKE ANSWERED I WILL DO MY BEST TO GET IT TO THEM. THANKS AGAIN!!!!
1SG WILSON
"TAKE ARMS"
Jose Quinones Guzman -- Kissimmee FL USA -- 01/21/2004 Email
Fellow Cacti: Just thought you'd like to know that we now have posted 327 pics of our KIAs. We now have 1498 KIAs listed on our site; 4 Nogales, 10 WWII, 839 Korea, and 645 Vietnam. I expect the numbers to grow in the WWII area over the next few months. In spite of the large number of KIAs on our site, we have found pictures for 21.8% of them. Congratulations to those of you who have helped so far. If any of you have a picture of a KIA that we don't have, please contact me so that we can get it scanned and posted. Thanks. We need everyone's help. Take Arms!
I served in the 35th Infantry division 1963-65 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.
My younger brother, Robert, was killed in Viet Nam in 1967.
I don't remember too much about anything.
Kenneth E. Benson -- West Hills ca USA -- 01/19/2004 Email
I was in B 1/35 from Oct 1st 1967 to 1 May 1968. If anyone remembers me e-mail me and put B 1/35. I will answer back. Thanks Lyle Fikan
Thank-you to all the veterans for securing the freedoms we enjoy today.
My father-in-law, SSGT James M. Read from OK, served in WWII and was a medic assigned to the 25th Div, 35th Inf, 3rd Batt from '43-'46. He recently passed away so I'm trying to locate anyone that may have served with him (Vella LaVella, New Caledonia, RR in New Zealand, Nagoya, Japan).
One picture lists the following names: Alexander, Vick, Davis, Forry, Stolberg, Windy, Capt Martinez, Lofty, Johnny, Jasko, Shawver, and Hoey. The photo was taken north of Belate Pass (no date).
I'd love to talk to anyone with information.
Brian Lerkins -- Southlake TX USA -- 01/12/2004 Email
Special Project, Landing Zones, Firebases and Locations at www.War-Records.com
The two best sources of Landing Zones, Firebases and Locations can be see by clicking:
http://www.landscaper.net/firebase.htm
and
http://grunt.space.swri.edu/visit/maps/lz.htm
There are a couple thousand. WWW.War-Records.com has launched a special project. This special project is the tall order of locating at least one individual for every fire base listed at
http://www.landscaper.net/firebase.htm
and
http://grunt.space.swri.edu/visit/maps/lz.htm
The link to click to participate in this special project is
http://vwr.proboards6.com/index.cgi?board=PLEASEADDMYPARTICULARLandingZoneFirebasevillageCampTOTHISSECTION
Thanks in advance,
John
Tom Mahon -- Pittsburgh PA USA -- 01/08/2004 Email
Got an email from daughter of Frank Knight, D 2/35th 1969-70.
Frank had symptoms of a stroke and was put in hospital. Latest update is good and he is progressing well and responding to treatment. Contact me for more info if you desire. Please keep Frank and his families in your prayers.
Gentlemen:
I'm looking to ctc anyone who served with a PFC Frank Fettuccia; Medic; 35th BN /2 He passed on KIA in March of '68.
Any help would be most appreciated.
God bless all of you-gentlemen for serving in that war.
maureen monteiro -- Endicott NY USA -- 01/03/2004 Email
To all Cacti and their Families, I send to you best wishes for a safe and prosperous New Year, Happy 2004.
From Nogales to soon Afghanistan our Cacti Colors have been borne by troops in WWII,Japan Occupation, The Cold War, Korea, Vietnam and Peacekeeping. May all those Cacti who have passed on be remembered forever and may we keep in mind and pledge to support our Active Duty Cacti as they take on their upcoming mission "In the Box" and go in Harms Way. This Cacti Brotherhood will always be there for each other whereever and whenever needed.
Take Arms and Cacti Forever
To all Cacti, and your loved...
Sir's and Ma'am's!
Our Very Best wishes, of a Good ending of the old year, and a Happy New Year! May the comming year, be a year filled with joy and warmth. And may our Father in Heaven, watch over, and keep all Cacti safe!
I hope you will also enjoy viewing this image from northern Sweden. Moonlight at midwinter:
http://www.gellivare.se/forening/mkjf/manskenvinter.jpg
Take Good Care!
Sincerely
A.B and family
Happy New Year to all my CACTI pals...Look forward to seeing you in Orlando.
ts 2/35th 68-69
Terry Savely -- Sugar Land TX USA -- 12/31/2003 Email
I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year,God bless our families and those in harms way protecting Freedom.
Pat O'Connor -- southington Oh USA -- 12/31/2003 Email
My many thanks to all of my CACTI brothers. We are indeed blessed with the association that we have together. I want to wish all of you a joyous Happy New Year. Hope 2004 will be good for all of us. May God bless America, all those who have helped preserve this great land, and those who are presently in harms way protecting this great Nation.
Ole
Alan Olsen (Ole) -- Overland Park Ks USA -- 12/31/2003 Email
Please- I am looking to ctc anyone that served with Frank Fettuccia; medic, 35th.; 2nd. battalion, Delta. Co. 4th. inf. I lost ctc with Frank after he finished training at Ft. Sam Huston and was shipped off to Viet Nam. Stories, fotos, etc. would be a big help to fill in those gaps that time left behind.
Many thanks . maureen Monteiro.
Maureen Monteiro -- Endicott NY USA -- 12/29/2003 Email
Any of you A, 1/35th lads recall a Steven Giovanini, wounded on 11/27/67?
Thanks, Dick
The Target story going around on the internet is old. The initial request was turned down but the facts are distorted. This has been cleared up and Target is now a corporate sponsor of the Moving Wall. The VFW even endorses Target and they are not french owned. Please go to www.about.com and read up on all the internet hoaxes.
My boy friend of 7 years was in the 101st. in Nam in 1970/71. I'm not sure if he belongs to the Vietnam Veterans Association or not.
Maybe you can help me. I received an e-mail reguarding the Target stores being French owned. It came from a Mr. Dick Forrey of the Vietnam Veterans Association and I'd like to know if you know anything about it.
Thank you and I'm very proud to be assoicated and living with a vet. I;m proud of him and all the vets for keeping our country and all other countries safe.
Sincerely,
Ms. Karen Neel
Karen Neel -- las vegas nv USA -- 12/24/2003 Email
I was in A co. 1/35th Inf. from Jan 1967 to Jan 1968. Your pictures brought back a lot of memories.
William Stephens
First Sergeant USA (Retired)
William Stephens -- Killeen TX USA -- 12/23/2003 Email
I'm certain many of you have learned of this years selection for "Man of The Year" by Time Magazine. For those of you who may not have, it's the American Soldier.
How fitting in these times that a publication of the Times readership would recognize our uniformed services as the most deserving of this prestigious accolade. God love each and every Soldier, Airman, Sailor and Marine. I never imagined we would see such a respect for our fighting men and women in my lifetime. It almost makes up for the disrespect we experienced when we filled that role 38 years ago.
For all my Cacti Brethern, please accept my and my family's wishes for a joyous and blessed Christmas Holiday season for each of you and your families. Don't forget to pause sometime during all the activities to give thanks for the reason for this season and remember those not fortunate enough to be with loved ones during this time. As you do so, remember that Christmas you were away from you families and be glad someone was praying for our safe return.
If any Cacti are taking trips to Hawaii between now and April please get in contact with me at C23568@verizon.net
I am in touch with the 2/35th Command Sgt Major and most of the company 1SGT. they will love to have you visit and will show you a good tour.
They will be deploying in April to Afghan with the 2nd Bde of the 25th for a year.
Cacti Forever
Hi guys, I just had to write a small additon to my previous ltter. What I meant to say to Rick Blomberg was that, Yes we all have the common bond and experience. yes many others can not relate like we can. Rick, all of us that were at Ben Het and other places, feel as you do. Be well and have a great Christmas. "DOC"
Cacti brothers, here it is almost christmas. Merry Christmas to all of you. I know many that read this won't know about this exact story but, I bet there was many similar. During Christmas time 1968, Delta 1/35 came into Pleiku for a short standdown or something. A bunch of us went down to the EM club to have a few beers. As we all know that was never the way it went. After leaving the club, we came back to one of the barracks in the trains area and continued the party. A bunch of us opened the packages we got from home and shared what we had. I had received 10 cans of smoked salmon which , we all shared and enjoyed. The reason for this run on story is that, I hated Nam, I hated the army but, I will never forget the guys from "D" "C" & HHC. God bless you all brothers.Have a great holiday. One last thing. To answer Rick Blombergs question in his letter. No brother, there is nothing wrong with what you say. The fact is, what you say is right on the mark. "DOC"
Forrest J. Joe "DOC" Olea -- Kelso WA USA -- 12/22/2003 Email
I was viewing the photos of Jack Cuthrell of the Korean War. My father was in the Korean War with the 176th Armed Field Attrilley company C. I have many of the same photos. I am curious who took the photos.
I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season. My wife and I are headed to Hawaii tomorrow and are planning on stopping by Schofield Barracks to give our greetings to the active duty Cacti. I know they are due for deployment soon, but hope they can receive guests. It only seems like yesterday that Christmas in 1966 when Gen. Westmoreland and John Steinbeck came to our company area for Christmas dinner. Of course I was chosen to make a garbage run and I did not get to meet them.
Art Johnson -- Arlington WA USA -- 12/20/2003 Email
First of all I want to wish all of you guys, from the 4th platoon of Charlie Co., and your families a great holiday season. In addition, I want to thank all of you for being an important part of my life. I think about all of you boneheads quite often. Imagine that, shows you how exciting my life is! I often think about us and our friends who didn't make it home. I think about how it is that guys from all over the country, come together at various times during the course of a year, and never seem to forget each other. Is it because we share a common experience that not many people share? Or is it, as in the case of Maltby, that I had to keep his boots polished so that he could make it through AIT. I don't know I guess, but just the same, I am proud to say, you are my friends and you will always be in my thoughts. I'm not sure why I am writting this, an AARP moment I guess. Merry Christmas guys. Blomberg C Co.1/35th 67/68
Rick Blomberg -- Spokane Wa USA -- 12/18/2003 Email
A little 4th Division pride I beleive is due to our active brothers who found the big rat of Iraq; hiding in a spider hole off his 2 room palace. Mars Bars and hot dogs was his cuisene and Mars Bars went out of bussiness 2 yrs. ago [ they were made here ,I think, in Pittsburgh ]. Again, well-done 4th, and hopefully the capture of Hussein will help bring our brothers home a little earlier. j.c. 1970 bravo co. 2/35
j.c. miskovich -- homestead pa USA -- 12/17/2003 Email
I was in D.Co 2/35 from Nov. 67 to No 68. I was in the 2nd plt for a few months then mortars. I see Bobby Orr of the 2nd plt often. Please contact us at my e-mail. We'd like to hear from you. Welcome home brothers. Bruce Macdonald ( Mac)
Bruce Macdonald -- N. Royalton Oh USA -- 12/17/2003 Email
Chris R Zarn...is your uncle "Bob Schoun" that lives in Idaho ? If so, he is a pal of mine.
ts
2/35th 68-69
Terry Savely -- Sugar Land TX USA -- 12/17/2003 Email
The older I get the braver I was. De Witte, write back if you can. I was the RTO that cut your insignia off the day that you flew into the field.
Mc Phedran John H. -- Hunting Beach ca USA -- 12/17/2003 Email
i was in the 2nd 35th from 1969 to 1970 i was a E4 im looking for some of my old buddies that was in my out fit.? my son russel is leting use his e-mail add so plez let him know about some info and he well let me knowthnx edward wicksfrediona,ny
edward wicks -- frediona ny USA -- 12/15/2003 Email
Attention all Cacti, this week we crossed the threshold of 500 Cacti Life Members. We also have 127 Family Life Members.
Annual Members stands at 489 with some of those not paid up for 03/04 yet.
We have 187 Active Members also.
The Assn is growing as total Membership is over 1100 and our Roster is over 3000. We need to get more of those on our Rosters to join.
Make Orlando Plans now.
Take Arms and Cacti Forever
Ben
Secretary/Treasurer
Robert Ridgell -- North Yarmouth Me USA -- 12/10/2003 Email
Hello my uncle served as a Blue Cacti in nam His nam is Robert Schuon if any one remembers him or stories or what his rank was please E-mail me other than that God bless you all and thank you for defending our freedom and country
Chris R Zarn -- lakeville MN USA -- 12/10/2003 Email
b-co 2/12 3rd brigde 4th&25th inf div.dau tieng vn.1966-1967known as the lost brigade didnt know who we belonged to.still dont know what the 25th named us.great sight.welcome home to all . vc kc.
casey kramarczyk -- a.j az USA -- 12/10/2003 Email
Mess. I got from Bobby Settan last night. Thought I would pass it on. Art was with Delta 1/35 67-68 A good man.
Hey Gang,
I got a call late last night from Rudy Mestas, Art's brother, and he said
Arty almost left us .It was some kind of stomach operation. Rudy is going to
call me with a phone number when Art can talk. Sounds like it was real
close. I'll let you know the number as soon as I get it.
Bobby
Dear Cacti Brothers,
I wish you all a joyous Holiday and thank you for all that you have given and sacrificed for this glorious country.
I now have a Son-In-Law serving in Iraq And ask that you keep him and his fellow soldiers in your thoughts and prayers over the coming month's. If you wish to send him a note of encouragement you can do so at
robert.williamsjr7@us.army.mil or Sgt.Robert Williams Jr. 367th Maint. Co. 44th CSB APO AE 09385. I'm sure it would be greatly appreciated.
I would also like to share with you a wonderful website
www.angelsforhope.org If you know anyone that needs an angel of hope for any reason just go to this site and you can do so.
Blessings to all of you and yours.
Sister to your Cacti brother 1st Lt. Steven M. Gillmer KIA June 3, 1968 Your Cacti Sister
Rebecca J Kinnear -- Yelm Wa USA -- 12/07/2003 Email
Good to see that there are so many ole CACTI and DOORGUNNERS on the CACTI web. I was a doorgunner from OCT 64--March of 65. SHOTGUN #8 & 9. Camp Hollway Pleiku with the 119th WIDOW MAKERS as it was called at that time. I was in the 9th ARTY then, but when the DIV shiped out to NAM I was attached to a/1/35 INF ( CACTI ) PROUD MEMBER!!18mon's in NAM. ONCE A CACTI ALWAYS A CACTI !!!
Aubrey Dale Ramsey -- Pell City AL USA -- 12/07/2003 Email
just wanted to come and visit my dad and brother who are on your pages.may God watch over our troops in iraq and all over and may they all soon come home.happy holidays
mary elizabeth wyant fast -- moline il USA -- 12/07/2003 Email
Gentlemen, I have just received word the Terry Bender, webmaster of the 1/14th "Golden Dragons" has passed away. As news of services is received I will pass it along. This is truly a great loss for all of us. Terry has done a great deal to help our association and to further the history of the 1/14th. He has selflessly given a large portion of his life to these efforts. Our prayers and condolences go out to Terry's family and to those who knew him. He will be missed.
Jim Anderson -- Burlington WA USA -- 12/06/2003 Email
The following obituary for Brigadier General Gerald C. Kelleher was published in the Albany (NY) Times Union on 12/6/2003.
Gerald C. Kelleher
PORT ORANGE, Fla. Brigadier General Gerald C. Kelleher. 95, of Albany, went to Heaven on November 23, 2003. General Kelleher will be interred with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery on December 23, 2003. Brigadier General Gerald C. Kelleher was born in Albany on July 8, 1908, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius Kelleher. He was a lifelong resident of Albany. He was married for over 60 years to his childhood sweetheart, the late Mary Rose Kelleher. He was also the father of the late Kenneth P. Kelleher; brother of the late Betty Snyder and Virginia Hallock. General Kelleher was schooled at Christian Brothers Academy, RPI and National War College. General Kelleher was Albany's highest medal award winner and one of the highest award winners in New York State for gallantry in World War II, Korea and the Vietnam War. He is the recipient of a Presidential Citation, Combat Infantry-man's Badge, two Distinguished Crosses, Silver Star with six clusters, a Distinguished Service Medal, Bronze Star with (V) device and Purple Heart. He also has been honored with Britain's second highest award, the Distinguished Service Order for action during the Battle for Standaarbutten, Holland. As Commander of the 414th Infantry Regiment of the 104th Timberwolf Division in Germany and, as a colonel, he led the first United States Infantry forces to engage the Germans in World War II. During the African Campaign, he was captured twice by the famed Afrika Corps and managed to escape both times. He also headed a US Security detail at the Neurenburg Trials. In addition to Britain's award, he was also awarded France's Croix de Guerre with Palm, The Russian Order of Suvorou and he is an Honorary Colonel in the 2nd Spahis, a famous French Cavalry unit. In 1981, General Kelleher was hosted by Governor Hugh Carey at the Governors Mansion in Albany. The event was held so that the Governor could pay off a bet that the General and he made in France in March of 1945. A case of beer to the first to reach occupied Cologne. The Governor praised his one-time superior as the finest soldier I have ever met in the uniform of the US Army. General Kelleher commanded an infantry regiment in Europe in World War II and led the 35th Infantry Regiment in 1950 and 1951 in Korea. He also lived and served in Japan as an adviser to the Japanese Army. General Kelleher was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion, Albany Elks and was a member of the Albany Hibernians. Survivors include his wife, Janeatte (Smith) Kelleher of Cohoes; his loving son, Neil C. Kelleher and his wife, Betty of Port Orange; brother to Paul Kelleher and his wife, Mary; sister, Jean Kelleher; daughter-in-law, Jean Ann Kelleher; grandfather to Robert Kelleher (Sheila), James Kelleher (Sherie), William Kelleher (Cindy), Thomas Kelleher (Linda), Gerald Kelleher (Linda), Michael Kelleher (Lynn), Mary Beth West (Rod), Patricia Kelleher-Cole, Kathy Ansel (Zack), Patrick Kelleher (Lisa); also survived by 26 great and great-great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews. 95 years of an extraordinary life is impossible to capture here. Suffice it to say General Kelleher has earned his eternal peace.
Frederick R. Miller, PH1, USN Retired -- Ballston Spa NY USA -- 12/06/2003 Email
I am a student at Bishop Hendricken High School and I and doing a report on serviceman Lawrence Banek, this is not just any report this report is so that this man will never be forgotten and his name will be put on the wall at Hendricken to be remembered with many others who are already there or soon to be, so I ask if anyone has any information on this serviceman that they would like to share with me, so that he will be properly honored and remembered, if you could please e-mail me at michaelgemma@hotmail.com it would be more than appreciated, thank you
My parents visited my uncle's gravesite this past weekend as they do every year at this time. They called me with news of a flag having been placed on his grave by the 35th and this web site. Our entire family is thankful to have some remembrance of my uncle. I was lucky enough to have received his medals, glass enclosed, for my birthday 9 years ago. I proudly display them on my wall for all to see. He has always been and will continue to remain in my heart and mind. With luck, through your dedication and this web site, others will remember what we all lost when my uncle was killed in action. For this, I thank you for your efforts.
Patrick Panagiotou -- Orlando FL USA -- 12/02/2003 Email
Cacti, Sir's!
One of the things I try to do, is to share information that I hope is of use and/or interrest, to Veterans. This, to as many Veterans as I can. Though I could post this here directly, it would take up a lot of space. So instead of doing so, I whish to post a link to a mainpost by me, on a Veterans forum, were I have posted the actual info. Link is: http://www.vietnamvets.com/wwwboard/messages/21371.html Please note that, for the vastly main part, I am only repeating earlier posts by other Veterans, and bringing the info together in a single "thread". This, so that it is easier to "get" the info. Just wanting to share info. Take Good Care, Cacti! Sincerely A.B
I AM DOING SOME RESEARCH ON THE 35TH INF. REGIMENT STATIONED AT SCHOFIELD BARRACKS ON DEC. 7, 1941. I AM TRYING TO TRACK DOWN UNIT COMMANDERS FROM ALL THE COMPANIES AND REGIMENTS THAT WERE STATIONED THERE IN HAWAII. IF ANYONE MAY HAVE THE UNIT PHOTOS TAKEN IN OCT. 1941, THAT WOULD HAVE ALL THE INFORMATION ON THAT UNIT.
Louis Bontya -- Sicklerville N. USA -- 12/01/2003 Email
I went to George Washington Memorial Park today, 11/29/03, my brother's birthday, John Hayden West, killed in action March 7th, 1969, Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, Vietnam War. It was heartwarming to see an American Flag and your placecard on my brother's grave. It was nice to know that he is remembered by this association and his family. Thank you again for your kind gesture.
Pamela West Panagiotou
Pamela West Panagiotou -- Lodi NJ USA -- 11/30/2003 Email
Please take a moment to honor over 50 of our Cacti brothers killed on November 28, 1950 in Korea. We will never forget them and the sacrifice they made for our country.
I learned you can request a copy of Form DD214 online. Here is the link: www.archives.gov/research_room/vetrecs It's easy to do; you simply fill out an online form with dates/names/service number/ssn, etc., and print a signature form to sign and mail in - they need your signature under the privacy act. You can also request records for any kin - a very useful site for those doing research or perhaps filing a benefits claim.
Enjoy your Turkey weekend!! Interesting seeing our old Divisions in the news - 4th in Iraq and the 25th Departing to Afghanistan -
Gary - A Co 1/35 - 1967-68
Gary Dittmer -- Woodbridge Va USA -- 11/27/2003 Email
My brothers, I want to wish all of you a very great Thanksgiving. I know I am fortunate to be here today and I am also fortunate have been a brother in arms with you. I have changed my e-mail address so I wanted to make sure that I made it known. May those of you that read this know that I salute you and am proud to be one with you. To those that do not know me, I served as a medic with "C" & "D" 1/35 during 1968-1969. Be well and cool brothers "DOC"
Forrest "DOC" Olea -- Kelso WA USA -- 11/25/2003 Email
Just wanted to take a minute to wish all Cacti, everywhere a safe and joyous Thanksgiving. The holiday has meant something special to me ever since the one I celbrated with Bravo Company on an LZ on the side of a hill near the Cambodian border. Turkey, dressing, gravy and smashed potatoes served from mermite containers are something to be remembered. For those of you who were there - Welcome Home! For those of you who weren't - may you never have to be.
Mike Slyck -- Rochester NY USA -- 11/25/2003 Email
PFC SHELDON R COHEN
Looking for men who served with and knew PFC SHELDON R COHEN of Chelsea,Massachusetts. Tour date 12/30/65 Co "A" 1 st Bn 35 th Inf (25 th Inf Div) Killed May 29,1966 South Vietnam in operation Paul Revere.Please call 1-800-338-2680 ext 208 or e- mail larry@nationsafedrivers.com Good Friend- Larry E Smith
Larry E Smith -- Boca Raton Fl USA -- 11/19/2003 Email
I was a teenager during the Viet Nam War but i still remember it as if it was yesterday. I want to thank all of you for the great job you did serving and protecting our great land and her people. You all are loved very much for what you gave. God Bless all of you. Virginia
Virginia Hoge Williams -- Belmont NC USA -- 11/18/2003 Email
Served with 2/35 Inf from Nov 68 to Oct. 69
Mel Grevstad -- Toms River NJ USA -- 11/12/2003 Email
HAY GUYS ON YHIS VETRERANS DAY AFTER 38 YEARS I FOUND SAMUEL C HOOKS C 2/23 1966.
HE LIVES IN AYNOR SC.HE HASN'T GOT A COMPUTER SO HE DOSEN'T KNOW ABOUT THE ASSOCATION. THIS HAS BEEN A GOOD DAY FOR ME,WILL CLOSE PAUL D. WATSON C2/35 1966
PAUL D WATSON -- MUSKEGON MI USA -- 11/11/2003 Email
To all you 35th guys, I hope your Veterans day was a good one. You are the best!!
Don Blankin -- Blacksburg SC USA -- 11/11/2003 Email
I pray everyday for my son SSGT Eric Johnson who is serving with the AirForce in Anchorage, Alaska, and for all our men, and women now serving our country. May God grant them safety in their job of serving our country.
Sharon Johnson -- Chariton IA USA -- 11/11/2003 Email
Today on Veterans day I celebrated the lives of Albert Mitchell-Cco.1/35,Joesph Mandarino-Bco.1/35, Larry Letterman-BCo.1/35,Richard Burbach-Bco.1/35, Greg Belew-Bco.1.35, all were good friends and comarades of mine who I knew only for a short time but made a large impact on my life. I celebrated their lives by hugging someone I dearly loved, holding a grandson, just looking around at the area I live in, sharing in conversation with some dear friends, and finally for having a drink and giving a toast to them. They did not gladly give their lives but their lives were taking from them by the ememy we were fighting. As a memorial to them all we can do is live our lives in such a way that we know if they were here today, they would say "Thats what I would have done if I could have returned to the World." My friends, I am so sorry that you didn't make it back but in my heart you will always be remembered.
Love you guys
Mike
Gentlemen. My name is Anthony Romero. I'm 21 years old and I have to say that I appreciate everything you did for me. I also was a member of the Cacti. I served for 3 year in HHC 2/35INF, from September 2000, to September 2003. I will always remember my brothers in arms, old and young. Even though I didn't fight in any war, I never saw any of my men die, I was ready to make the ultimate sacrifice. The present commander of 2/35 inf is LTC. Scott McBride, and the Sargeant Major is CSM Arthur L. Coleman. Those two men helped me become the man I am today and I am forever gratefull for that. Thank you. Take Arms!
anthony romero -- Malone NY USA -- 11/11/2003 Email
Karl King's sister, coD 1bn 35th inf 4th div April 15, 1968
He died April 31, 1981 and he had always had tried to find his Sargeant who had been badly hurt that day so Sarge if you're out there, you were loved and so were and are the rest of you, you will NEVER be forgotten!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On 11/11/68 Delta 1/35 lost 3 brothers west of Ducco. These were John Bratton, Jim Humphrey and Gary Rust.
You are often in my thoughts brothers. May God keep you well till we meet again.
Rodger Leffler -- Kaniva Vi aust. -- 11/10/2003 Email
I just finished looking through some of the pictures you have on your website. I am trying to find anyone who knew Carl Thomas Anthony he was with the 25th Infantry Division.
He was from Holden,Louisiana and he died March 21,1967.I would truly be blessed if you could help me.See I am his baby sister and i was in the 5th grade when he died so any info on him would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you and God Bless you and what yall are doing.
Sandra Bankston -- Tickfaw La USA -- 11/09/2003 Email
I'm looking for a volunteer Cacti from the Savannah, GA area. I need someone to go to a local library in the Savannah area and do a newspaper archive search for information on our Brother James M. Spence KIA 2/27/66. This is really quite a simple procedure which would take about 1 hour of time. I'll walk you through the whole process. The object is to obtain a photo of James Spence as well as a news story about his death and an obituarary. This is 1 hour of time to attempt to permanently honor our Brother on our Memorial Pages of this web site. Contact me at jimdochall@yahoo.com Thanks - Doc
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 11/09/2003 Email
This is a net call to all Delta 1/35 warrrior's. Join us for our Delta Luncheon at next years reunion! Pass along this invitation to your fellow Delta brothers and lets make Orlando in '04 the best yet!!!
I did some research yesterday and came up with a few names of probable relatives for George H. Chace, A 2/35 KIA 10/21/66. George lived two towns away from here. On the third call I made contact with his brother, Stephen, who is mentioned in an article memorializing all KIA from this area. It was published in 1973. The minute I mentioned his brother and who and what I was up to the conversation turned to "YES SIR." He was more than receptive to my call and what we were doing. He was in Vietnam himself in 1964 with the 145th AV BN in Saigon. George was from a family of 13, 6 being Army veterans; 5 survived. He mentioned that his brother was wounded on October 17th and succumbed to those wounds on his 23rd birthday, October 21 1966. If anyone remembers George or the day of 10/17/66, plese e-mail me with details. Cacti Forever
Peter J Birrow B 2/35 68/69 -- Tyngsboro MA USA -- 11/03/2003 Email
I served in 3rd Batallion Hq. Co. Korea, Jan.- May 1952.
Charles L. Hicks -- Richardson Tx USA -- 11/03/2003 Email
HHC 1st bn 35th Cacti has lost one of its best.CWO-3 Orval
(Ed) Samples. Ed served his country all over the world. I meet Ed in Hawaii when I was with Support Platoon. We were sent to Vietnam in 1965 to 1966. I was transfer to the Motor Pool in Pleiku and served under him. After the service he still help out his fellow man. He passed away with a heart attact while hooking up emergrncy generators after a hurricane.
Nassy (Gene) Grantham -- Tavares fl USA -- 11/02/2003 Email
It is with deepest sorrow that I post this note from our Cacti Brother Roger Surprenant.. Please keep Roger and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time of grieving. Ben Youmans Sec/Treasurer Cacti Assn. (betty will be added to our TAPS section as an Eternal Member, she was one of our early webmasters who helped create this site)
"""to all my cacti buddies
I'm sorry to say that,Betty, my wife of 29 years, has
passed away. she died at home surrounded by family and
friends on Sunday,10-26-03. I've had more than one
person tell me how brave she was throughout out her
ordeal.
Roger D 1/35 67-68"""
I take a look at the website time and again. I was with the Cacti (Bravo Company 2/35) from January 1997 - May 2000. I came back to the site because 2 days ago I received word that SSG Jamie L. Huggins,whom I had the greatest honor to serve with in Hawaii, a former Cacti bretheren of mine, was killed Sunday October 26 in support of Operation: Iraqi Freedom. Huggins was a part of the 82nd ABN. at the time. He will forever by my brother in arms. We had some great times Jamie...Rest In Peace brother.
Robert Anspach -- Fredericksburg PA USA -- 11/01/2003 Email
Hi I was wondering if anyone on her had any information on Kenneth Arthur Sneed, my grandfather. He served around 1947 or 1948. Thanks.
What a great web site. I had tried for years to remember my buddies names that had been killed when I was with the HHC (recon) 1/35/ 25th Inf. Div. and with the KIA listing by units I was able to find everyone. I was truly amazied to find reports of the differant battles that I was in. It brougt back a lot of memory's that at one time I tried to forget and now I want to remember. Thanks to all who have contribuited to this site and for their service to our contry. Ron.
ronald Ray -- sacramento ca USA -- 11/01/2003 Email
To the brave men and families of those brave men in the 35th,
Hello to anyone who may remember my father, Bill Sandefur, A Company, 1st BN, 35th Inf Reg, who was killed in action in Quang Tin on 11/27/1967. He was killed 7 days before I was born. If you remember my father, I would love to hear from you. Please contact me at my email address.
God bless
Rhonda Wirth -- Portland OR USA -- 10/31/2003 Email
Say a payer for all we lost from CoC2/35th this day in 1966. May we never forget
frankie willard -- Wichita KS USA -- 10/29/2003 Email
Looking for anyone that was at The Oasis the night before it closed down. 12/something/69 Need to jog my memory. Thanks
Say a payer for all we lost from CoC2/35th this day in 1966. May we never forget.
Frankie Willard CoC 2BN 35th -- USA -- 10/28/2003 Email
served in 1955-56 able co.
edward lucchese -- lawrenceville ga USA -- 10/25/2003 Email
OVER 35 NEW ARTICLES POSTED !! Thanks to the help of the 4th Division Museum we've posted over 35 new Ivy Leaf articles from 1967-68-70. Just go to our History section, then to the Vietnam History section and look for lines beginning with Ivy Leaf. best Wishes to all - Jim Anderson B 2/35th 67-68
Jim Anderson -- Burlington USA -- 10/25/2003 Email
I received my Cacti Times in the mail yesterday. I read the entire issue last night. Outstanding job, good articles and good pictures. Thanks again for your hard work, it is much appreciated.
Rocco Doc DeRosa -- Fountain Hills AZ USA -- 10/22/2003 Email
Stopped in by invitation, my husband is with 4ID, C 1/67 AR out of Fort Hood, currently serving at Camp Scunion in Iraq.
Just wanted to say thank you to Ben for the invitation, and to let y'all know I think you have quite a beautiful website here, very touching.
Bless our past and current soldiers, and thank you to you all.
Erin "Kitten" Rathjen -- Fort Hood TX USA -- 10/20/2003 Email
was with 24th inf at yanggu valley korea dec53till sept54.Went to schofield barracks with co G 35 inf was there one year sept 54 till sept 55.Would like to hear from anyone.
Mr.Youmans has done it again. An outstanding Cacti times covering our Buffalo Reunion. To you guys who are elgible and haven't joined, and those who have let your membership lapse your missing out big time. Get your dues in and rejoin the proudest combat unit in the Military.
Your Sergeant @ Arms
Wiley Dodd (Tiny)
Wiley Dodd (Tiny) -- Riverview MI USA -- 10/18/2003 Email
Just like to thank the Cacti for putting up the pictures of the KIA'. As I look at them I can't help but think and remember how young we were. I miss them all and hope and pray their families are doing well. God Bless them all.
Roger A. Thiessen "T" -- Mesa AZ USA -- 10/17/2003 Email
would like to hear from anyone in co. G who came from korea to schofield barracks hawaii sept.1954
gerald m. hall -- dunbar p USA -- 10/17/2003 Email
THE LATEST ISSUE OF THE CACTI TIMES, ALL 52 PAGES, IS IN THE MAIL TO ALL MEMBERS. YOU WILL ENJOY THIS ISSUE AS IT HAS REUNION PHOTOS AND SOME REALLY GREAT ARTICLES AND STORIES ABOUT THE CACTI.
PLEASE EMAIL ME ONCE YOU RECIEVE YOUR COPY. DONT FORGET I CAN ALWAYS USE GOOD ARTICLES OR OLD STORIES YOU MAY HAVE OF YOUR TIME WITH THE CACTI.
TAKE ARMS AND CACTI FOREVER
Fellow Cacti: If any of you live in Wisconsin, I'm trying to find more info about Robert F. Blohowiak, of De Pere, Brown County, WI. One source I have puts him in the 23rd Infantry, but the following puts him in the 35th. If anyone can go to De Pere to find an obituary, it might clear this up. Please email me if you live close to De Pere. ----The Korean War claimed four SNC (St. Norbert College?) lives including 1LT Robert F. Blohowiak, a popular student and football star, he too was serving in the 35th Infantry when killed in combat. His body was returned to De Pere for funeral and burial. The entire cadet battalion participated as well as some local reserve units. The cadets formed a honor guard that ran the distance of two city blocks ending at St. Joseph's church. Pat May and Dick Joyce, both pall bearers recall the solemnity and lasting impression of the ceremony.---
Attention Pennsylvania Cacti. I am looking for assistance in the state of Pennsylvania. I am looking for anyone living in or near the counties of Allegheny, Bucks, Clearfield, Delaware, Fulton, Indiana, Lycoming, & Mercer AND/OR the cities of Philadelphia or Pittsburgh. We need someone in each of these areas to go to the county/city libraries and look through the microfilm newspaper archives. We would like the news story and/or obituary for our KIA Cacti from these areas. Most of the counties/cities have 1 or 2 of our fallen brothers. It is really a simple process usually taking less than an hour in the local libraries. We just need people in the vicinity who are willing to help us in memorializing our fallen brothers. If you can help please contact me at jimdochall@yahoo.com . I will be most happy to tell you how to go about this. Think about it guys, an hour of time as a payback for the sacrifiice that these brothers made for us. Thanks -- Doc
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 10/05/2003 Email
I am looking for information on Cacti burials at a couple of National Cemeteries. If you know (or even suspect) of any Cacti KIA's buried in Arlington National Cemetery or Long Island National Cemetery please drop me a line at jimdochall@yahoo.com. Thanks -- Doc
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 10/04/2003 Email
I served in B CO.2/35 from Dec. 25 1963 until Aug. 1965. I was in 2nd platoon weapons squad -90mm and m-60. I knew John King and he was one of my best friends.
Donald R. Holton -- Branchland WV USA -- 10/03/2003 Email
Gailen Spinka if you read this I got your registration but your email address does not work. Please contact me with the correct email.
Ben Youmans, Sec/Treasurer 35th IR Assn.
byoumans@"nospam"kforce.com be sure to take the "nospam" out of the email address. this is a good method to use to keep the spammers from sending you a lot of crap.
I need a little information from some of you. I'll be visiting Arlington Cemetery in a few weeks and I'd like to visit the grave sites of any of our Cacti Brothers who are buried there. If anyone knows (or think they know) of any Cacti buried there please let me know at jimdochall@yahoo.com Thanks - Doc
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 10/01/2003 Email
In memory of Doc Sines and the others from 2nd platoon, "C" 2/35 that were KIA on this day in Duc-Lap.
Don Blankin -- Blacksburg SC USA -- 09/30/2003 Email
My father served in the 35th inf regt co B, 25th div from some time in 1953 till 1955. He was in Korea and then made a move to Hawaii. If anyone served during this time or may know Donald Crowe would you please E-mail me? Thank-you
John Crowe
John Crowe -- Pensacola Fl USA -- 09/29/2003 Email
I would like any information that anyone has on my father, SGT Jerry Williams (HHC,1st Bn. 35th Infantry). He was KIA with 9 other heroes on June 24, 1966. What happened that day? What kind of man was my father, etc...I can be emailed at david.williams@bmwmc.com Thanks for any help you can give.
David Williams -- Pickens SC USA -- 09/29/2003 Email
September 29, 1969 - 1st and 2nd platoons, along with the CP from Bravo 2/35 walked into it in the Chu Pa's. Spent a large part of the day eating red dirt on the side of a ravine. Scotty and Price got killed, and a bunch of us did some bleeding. Take a minute to say one for all of us. Seems like it was just this morning. September's never easy.
Mike Slyck -- Rochester NY USA -- 09/28/2003 Email
I served with the 35th Infantry Reg. from 1953 to 1955.
I was a Chaplain's assist for Chaplain George C. Farmer located at Regimental Headquarters. Made many good friends in that Regimental Motor Pool. If any of you are still around, drop a line.
Chuck Kadell -- Stayton OR USA -- 09/27/2003 Email
On 9-27-69 A Co. and D Co. 2/35th Inf bled together near Duk Lap RVN A Co. Joseph G Ambrosio,Mark A. Barns,Derris Brown,David K Chahoc,Richard L Jones Jr., Robert E Knoll,Roger A. Rickert,Bradford D Wright. D Co. Lawrence B. Banek,Tommy R Bowman, Isham I Quick,Efrain Soto Jr. Gerald S. Stozek A 2/35 Died of wounds on 9-28-68. Lest our Brothers be fogotten,A moment of silent prayer at 900 AM to remember and honor our fallen brothers.God Bless.
Patrick W. O'Connor -- Southington Oh USA -- 09/26/2003 Email
I am looking for anyone that may know or served with my uncle in WWII. His name was Neil Lindsey Boteler from Anniston, Alabama. He was in the 35th and was killed in action on Guadalcanal on January 15, 1943. If anyone has any information that you can share with me, it would be greatly appreciated. I was born in October of 1943 and was named for him, but know very little about him. Thank you.
Joe Boteler -- Birmingham AL USA -- 09/26/2003 Email
Below is an email I received from Michael Gemma, if anyone can help Mike please contact him at this email address:
michaelgemma@hotmail.com
I have passed along the link to the Daily Journals regarding 27 Sept 1968 from the 35th's website and also the link to the memorial KIA page for Lawrence Banek.
Dave Fogg
Hi, my name is Michael Gemma, I am a student at Bishop Hendricken High School and I am in a Vietnam class that you may or may not be familiar with but in the class we research Rhode Islanders who were killed in the Vietnam war and at the end of the year we put their name up on our wall so that they will never be forgotten and will be remembered the way they should be. Well to get to my point I am researching a serviceman by the name of Banek, Lawrence and I keep running into dead ends in trying to find information, so Mr. Cichon told me to contact you to se if you could possibly give me any information on this serviceman, it would be greatly appreciated, thank you
I am looking for Robert J Hansen JR,last known address was Lynn Mass.
Mel Riebesehl -- Napoleon OH USA -- 09/25/2003 Email
A moment for Roger Fulkerson and the guys from "C" 2/35 that were KIA on this day in 1968 at Duc-Lap.
Don Blankin -- Blacksburg SC USA -- 09/25/2003 Email
I am looking for any one who was with E.co.1/35th,was in weapons plt.,recon plt,from apr. 68 to mar. 69,especialy looking for Bob Hansen from Mass.
Mel Riebesehl -- Napoleon Oh USA -- 09/24/2003 Email
I would like to say thank you to all of the gentlemen who was part of my dad's company. His memories will always be with his children, for he told us soo much about what he went through during his time over seas. He loved us, his children very much, and encouraged us to take on what ever comes before us. I think he learned that while fighting and saving his fellow comrades. His grandchild, his pride and join, shows the highest respect for a men and women in the services today, for I did the same. (which my father taught me growing up) I would also like to thank the gentleman who came all the way from Washington DC for my father's funeral in March of 2001. I hope one day to meet some of you who shared a moment in his life, for my son and I will share ours with you. Thank you all so much for the love, companionship, trust and heart you've shown to my siblings and I and to my dad over the years.
sorry that is 20 mounts in country guess i should not be typing that time of night
Frankie Willard -- Wichita KS USA -- 09/21/2003 Email
Iwas laying here listeng to the lighting and thunder going bye you know I do not ever seeing lighting or hearing thunder in Viet Nam I spent over 30 mounths in country woundering if Iam nuts or just block it out
Frankie Willard -- Wichita KS USA -- 09/21/2003 Email
Hi guys,
Just wanted to drop a line to say hello and hope this finds all my Cacti Brothers in good health and spirits.It's been awhile since I signed in,but I have been in and out of the hospital for quite some time.I'm sorry that I couldn't go to the reunion, but maybe next time.
Dave if you see this I want to call you in the near future to discuss a VA matter. Hope you don't mind.
Stay well and may God bless the USA and Cacti forever!
JEFSR Co C, 1/35th,2/35th,4th Inf Div 1969-70
James Fedney Sr. -- Greenville SC USA -- 09/20/2003 Email
Hi everyone,I got home last evening from a hospital stay after suffering a major heart attack.I had extensive by-pass surgery on my 56th birthday.All of us active types seem to ignore the little signs and when it happens,it is that much worse-more damage and longer recovery time,if we recover.I loved Buffalo and I am looking foreward to Orlando.
Pat O'Connor -- Southington Oh USA -- 09/20/2003 Email
It's been a long time and justed getting interested.I was in nam from April 67 to Feb 68, in 1/35th c co.
Lawrence W Rhoads -- Fort Worth TX USA -- 09/17/2003 Email
Hi guys I'm trying to find some info on my Grandfather. He was 25th ID 35 Reg during the Korean War. His name was Richard Kates but I cant find him on your roster. He is retired and his health is slipping I would like to bring him to a reunion if I could.
Justin Kates -- Salisbury NC USA -- 09/15/2003 Email
9-13-68 Hill 691 Quang Duc. To all you B 2/35th guys that were on that hill that day. Wishing you all the best as you deserve nothing less. In memory of Larry Gambotto, Manuel Ortiz and Everett Planck.
Gary Lee
B 2/35th 68-69
Gary Lee -- Staten Island NY USA -- 09/13/2003 Email
9/11/03 has about 2 more hours to go and thank god it was a uneventful day. I think it was fitting to have the reunion in Buffalo, N.Y.; BUT I'd like to suggest considering N.Y.,N.Y. as a future reunion site, and maybe even enter it as a site to visit every 5--10 years. The photos looked great and you guys are running a first class organization, web-site, reunions, research etc. etc. no, jive, I'm not easily impressed!! Take care all,and I wish you all the best. j.c.
j.c. miskovich bco. 2/35 1970 -- homestead pa USA -- 09/11/2003 Email
It has been quite a while since I posted anything in the guest book.I served with A/1st/35th.Weapons Platoon.I believe I was in third squad.I carried the M-79.I have suffered with the nightmare of loosing my best friend and really can't remember a lot about it other than going around the area picking up parts of his body.We were both from Florida so we became really close friends.He had been in country a while longer than I had so he taught me a bit about surviving out in the Bush.I was with A Co.from November 67,until May or June 68.I was then sent to LZ.Baldy.The Friend I am refering to is Emeroy Stephen Cannon KIA 11 Jan.68.He was killed by a Dud mortar round pit exploded back into his face.As the story goes All gave some,but some gave ALL.Stephen allways gave All.I will never forget this Guy for as long as I live.If anyone remembers this incident,Please contact me by either E-maIL OR TELEPHONE-(804)762-9330.At LZ Baldy I became a cook because they were short of cooks,so it was a great way to get out of the Bush.I however think it was safer in the Bush.We got mortared quite freq.I guess I have rambled on enough.I will send my Dues in as my membership expired.However Once you are pricked by Cacti.You will allways be a Cacti.Take Arms.Stadfast and Loyal.God BLESS OUR UNITED FORCES TODAY AND FOREVER.
David A.(Dave)Loudermilk -- Richmond Va USA -- 09/10/2003 Email
Member of A/1/35th from 1961 thru 1964. One of the first door-gunners from the Tropic Lightning sent to Pleiku, VietNam. Anyone in that group - please write.
I served withD 2/35th from Sept 68 to Jan 69. My SSG was SSG McMillion. Red Tackett was My best friend. Does anyone remember him. He was killed on May 18,1969
Bradford Anderson -- Alexander AR USA -- 09/09/2003 Email
Sir's!
Have viewed the photographs of the reunion in Buffalo. It was with a riseing feeling of warmth inside, that I so did.
I also noticed mr Muxo's post below, regarding August 27th, 1918. With that post in mind, I just whish to share a few links. In one of them, there is a photograph, of the Cacti camp. Links are:
http://www.municipiodenogales.org/27_agosto.htm
http://www.lib.byu.edu/~rdh/wwi/comment/huachuca/HI2-06.htm
http://usaic.hua.army.mil/History/PDFS/sense.pdf (Se especially page 87)
http://www.geocities.com/walk35th/history/nogales.htm
With best whishes, to all Cacti, and your to loved! Sincerely
A.B
thank u for the infor.i have being try to find out my great uncle who was killed in korea in 04/24/51 his name was jessie thomas tibbs.he was in 35 inf rgt 25 div all i know he was killed in karwol-li.does anybody know were that is.
jerry g, miller -- englewood oh USA -- 09/09/2003 Email
1st Plt Leader, C/2/35 3d Bde TF, Nov 66 - Mar 67....should be a number of guys out there who have that date etched in their minds. A lot of brave men went that day.
If anyone knows there whereabouts of Capt Ronald B. Rykowski I'd be much obliged for the help in reaching him.
William [Bill] Stoner -- Sterling VA USA -- 09/08/2003 Email
Fellow Cacti: Please take a moment to honor our 46 Korean War and two Vietnam War fallen comrades who were killed on September 7.
Copies of photo's that I took at the Buffalo Reunion are being shared through Shutterfly.com. The re-prints are sold at drug store prices through their web site, 4x6 prints are just 49 cents. I had a great time at the reunion, hope to see everyone in Orlando, 2004! - John, B 2/35 '66-67
John Lorts -- Virginia Beach VA USA -- 09/06/2003 Email
Fellow Cacti: The News & Views section is back, and we've added a link to the 4th ID Association website news page. It has the latest stories about our 4th ID troops in Iraq. Even if you were with the 25th, take a look. There are some very interesting stories there which I think everyone will enjoy.
I just looked over the reunion pictures. it seems like the bellys are getting bigger and the hair is getting grayer. and the wives are prettier than ever.
as some of you know, my wife, Betty, is batteling cancer and we couldn't make it this year. I strongly urge everyone who is putting off going to a reuion to consider going next year, because you never know what the good Lord is going to throw at you. hope to see you all next year.
Florida in the middle of summer, sounds yummy.
Roger, [soupy]
cacti forever.
Roger E. Surprenant -- Fairhaven Ma USA -- 09/01/2003 Email
Hi Guys, In an entry below the brother of Joseph Ledesma Jr is searching for anyone who may of served with his Brother. Joseph was with C Co 2/35th and was KIA on May 20, 1967 along with Gary Killian and Roland Rush. If any of you knew Joseph please contact his Brother, David or me. Thanks -- Doc
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 08/28/2003 Email
My oldest brother Joseph Ledesma, Jr., was killed in Quang Ngai, S. Vietnam, May 20, 1967. He was awarded the customary Purple Heart, and the Bronze Star with "V" insignia for Valor. He was 20 years old.
After 36 years I am searching for anyone who knew Joe and served with him in Vietnam. My family loves him, and misses him very much. Thank you for any help contacting those whom he served with.
My wife ,Gina, wants to know where are the photographs of her on her scooter racing the the "Cacti" guys on their motorcycles?
John A. Wendell -- Brooklyn NY USA -- 08/27/2003 Email
Fellow Cacti: Eighty-five years ago today the 35th Infantry Regiment had its first KIAs, William H. Klint, Luke W. Loftus, Barney Lots, and Frank Whitworth. They died in Nogales, NM, during the Battle of Both Nogales between US and Mexican troops.
Attention Ohio Cacti. I am looking for some assistance in the state of Ohio. I am looking for anyone living in or near the counties of Cuyahoga; Fairfield; Fulton; Logan; Lorain; Marion; Morgan; Richland; Stark; Tuscarawa; or Van Wert. AND/OR the cities of Cincinnati; Cleveland; Columbus; Toledo; or Youngstown. We need someone in each of these areas to go to the county/city libraries and look through the microfilm newspaper archives. We would like the news story and/or obituary for our KIA Cacti from these area's. Most of the counties or cities have 1 to 3 of our fallen brothers. It is really a simple process usually taking no more than 1 hour in the local libraries. We just need people in the vicinity who are willing to help us in memorializing our fallen brothers. If you can help please contact me at jimdochall@yahoo.com I will be most happy to tell you how to go about this. Think about it guys. 1 to 2 hours of time as a payback for the sacrifice that these brothers made for us. Thanks,
Doc
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 08/24/2003 Email
Hi guys. I am from 2/35th (cacti blue) september 68 - August 69. I was a medic with recon platoon under Lt. Winn, and with other companies such as Alpha company with Sgt John Anderson. I would like to hear from other guys out there who care to drop me a line. I was just browsing the guestbook and photo logs and brother, did memory take me back. Some of them were good memories, many were bad ones. Salutes to all of you and especially our fallen comrades. (former)Sp/4 Michael W. (Doc) Richards.
Mike Richards -- wood river il USA -- 08/22/2003 Email
Does anyone out there read the "More Info" part of our KIA memorial section? If not you are missing something. I was reminded today by someone requesting information on Timothy "Little Doc" Sines C 2/35th about what a great story on him can be found under "More Info" of his memorial page. You really ought to take a look. While you are at it click on the KIA's by alphabetical listing and check out others such as Dan Archer C 2/35; Peter Yazzie Claw A 1/35; Danny Jeter C 2/35; and I highly recommend looking at the pages for Mark Kaye C 1/35 and Marvin Troxel B 2/35. These are just a few of the scores of great stories and memories of our heroes listed on our KIA Memorial pages. You will find many more if you take a look at our "Timeline" pages. Take a look. These are our stories. These are our heroes. Doc Hall
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 08/21/2003 Email
Bye Bye aol!! I now am on DSL at last! Please email me ASAP at birrowp@comcast.net so that I can save your addy in my new address file. Thanks for making the reunion the most sucessful to date. Once you are pricked by a Cacti, you are a Cacti Forever!
Peter Birrow Bravo 2/35th 68/69 -- Tyngsboro Ma USA -- 08/19/2003 Email
Fellow Cacti: Today and tomorrow fifty-three years ago there were 30 Cacti lost in Korea. Please visit our KIA pages and look them up. As long as we remember the sacrifice they made, the "Forgotten War" will not be forgotten, nor the price our brothers paid for the freedom of the South Korean people.
Roger, Do you know if Clifford Totten was from Oregon? I can not find any Clifford Totten's listed in the US but I did find a Clifford R. Totten in the SSN Death Index. He was from Oregon and died in Oregon. He was born 28 July 1939 (so would of been about 27 in 1966)and he died in Oregon on 8 Jan 1990. If you have any orders that he is listed on that happen to carry a SSN this can be readily confirmed. Doc Hall
Jim Doc Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 08/17/2003 Email
Thanks to the men who posted Sgt. Tottens ciatation for the Distinguised Service Cross. I have been searching for him ever since he left Nam in 66. Cliff if you read this note, drop me an email.
T 65-66
Thanks to all the guys I served with. May God Bless. Hooyeah!
Roger A. Thiessen -- Big Lake MN USA -- 08/17/2003 Email
Fellow Cacti: We are starting to post photos of our Cacti 2003 Reunion in Buffalo (see the What's New page for details). If you have scans you would like to send to me, drop me an email and I'll tell you where and how to send them. And if you couldn't make it to Buffalo, see you next summer in Orlando!
I want to thank everyone who attended Cacti Reunion 2003 in Buffalo. I had a terrific time and met three buddies from 1st Platoon, B 2/35 1966 after 37 years along with three others that attended last year. The renewed friendship is just unbelievable. If you have ever been a Cacti and haven't attended one of our reunions, make plans to attend next year in Orlando, you will have the time of your life! Get on the internet and find your buddies, they are out there and would love to be contacted by you! Thanks to all the Cacti Officers and volunteers that give so much of their time to make sure the reunions are special. See you in Orlando!
John Lorts -- Virginia Beach VA USA -- 08/13/2003 Email
I would Like to say to the Many Emails on door gunners that I recived its was onlonely the 2 bn 35th who had door gunners in Soc Trang I some times for get we are to diffance Battlions and each Bn had their own Place Frank C/23th Inf 61-67
frank Willard -- Wichita Ks USA -- 08/09/2003 Email
Tom Wiggins -- boothwyn pa USA -- 08/09/2003 Email
For all doorgunners who was on the frist doorgrunner from 2/35th Inf it even has photos of tuffy Enjoy Frank Willard http://www.121st-ahc-association.org
frank Willard -- Wichita KS USA -- 08/07/2003 Email
Comment on 25th Div Language School. The Division had a language school located at the NCO Academy. One of my soldiers attended; phase 1 was classroom, phase 2 tdy to the country(my soldier went to RVN and served 90 days with an Advisory Team), phase 3 maintenance where the soldier went to the language lab for practice a few hours every week. It may not be well known, but the 25th Div was the Army Counterisurgency Div. All the soldiers that served in Schofield attended the Div Jungle Training (a unit oriented mix of Jungle and Ranger type Tng. The Div ran a Jump School at Macarthy Flats. US Army Hawaii Infantry Training Center was also at Macarty Flats and inductees from the Pacific Islands; Guam Samoa and Philippines trained there for Basic and AIT. For the whole 16 weeks they lived in GP Medium tents and came out oustanding soldiers. When we deployed to Nam a lot of our oustanding soldiers/NCO's from Guam and Samoa had been trained there. When the 1st Cav Div and 1st Inf Div were deployed to Nam many of the officers and NCO's were trained at the 25th Jungle Training enroute. The 25th Div as a whole was problably the best trained and must ready division deployed to Nam. We had our own interpreters, because of Shotgun many of our leaders had experience enemy fire plus we had many NCO's who were Korean War veterans. What I learned in the 25th at Schofield were all the tools I needed for the success I had in my career.
SGM(RET)Charles H Beauchamp -- Salem OR USA -- 08/06/2003 Email
Looking for anyone who remembers serving with SGT Robert Wayne Kenny. HHC 1/35TH, KIA Jan. 24th 1967 My wife Maddy and I visited Roberts grave in his home town of Seelys Bay Ontario and are in touch with one of Robert's cousins. Robert is also named on the Canadian Vietnam Veterans Memorial "North Wall" in Windsor Ontario Canada. The 10th anniversary of the dedication of the North Wall will take place July of 2005.
I was in the 25th Division's Language school in 1964. When we completed our schooling Maj. Johnson said that the easiest way to get us in country was to go Shotgun. There was Sgt. Silvis, Sp4 Surface. Sp4 Propster, Sp4 Denmark,Sp4 Green, Sp4 Paradis and myself. When I tried to get info on this part of the operation no one seemed to recall any Language School or the Shotgun connection. I'm glad to see some of the info is starting to surface. Does anyone remember that we couldn't wear gunners wings when we came back to Schofield?
wynwood curry -- Baltimore Md USA -- 08/06/2003 Email
Just saying hi to John Barbeau....and thanks to all who served. May God continue to bless you all.
Sherley
Sherley O'Leary -- St. Louis MO USA -- 08/05/2003 Email
NEW ITEMS POSTED - Some of you know me from the reunion as the guy who keeps mentioning that it is us that will preserve our history. they are your stories but will never be told if you do not get in on paper and send it in. Reunion attendees Roger Stitt and Louis Riccardi were kind enough to lend me numerous issues of the Ivy Leaves. I've just finished posting about 30 articles from late 68 and early 69. Bill Grimes lent me some great photos of early 1966 when the cacti landed. And John Fielding provided a whole box of items about the 1/35th in Taiwan in 1962-63. Also had some interesting stories about visiting Saigon at the time. THANK YOU GUYS for your generosity.
Jim Anderson - Historian 35th Inf Reg Assn
Was reading all this on door gunners. As few know I was in the first group to go to SocTrang. The Site Cacti Ben put is a good site. Also check out this one too for all the SoctrangVn Gunners http://www.cantho-rvn.org/soc-trang.html. Have fun since it seams we had some difference. AV Cos do a url search for you. Frank Willard USA RET Cacti 61 -67
frank Willard -- Wichita KS USA -- 08/04/2003 Email
Searching for help. My father died (as did my mother) when I was very young and all I have is his DD-214. I'd truly love to be able to tell his two granddaughters about his time in the Korean War. His name was Sgt Roy F. Scalzo. According the his DD-214 he served from 6/13/51 to 11/30/52. His most significant duty assignment was with the How Tank Co. 35th Regt. He received the Purple Heart and three Bronze Service Stars. I do have his Purple Heart and his 35th Infantry Regt Korean War bars. I've been confused in my search as I have found both a How Company and a Tank Company...and I have a picture of him on a tank with several friends. I've received some guidance through your site alreay. Can anyone else help?
Rocky Scalzo -- Kenosha WI USA -- 08/02/2003 Email
http://www.gorilla.net/~118ahc/Shot%20Gun%20Platoon.htm
put this url in your address for internet. the history of the Cacti shotgun platoons.. great site.
check out the Patch..
Cacti Forever.
This is to ROY Greenfeather,I understand what you posted in the guestbook brother but I think this site is as good and complete as we as a whole make it, that served in Viet Nam during that time. I can see you are upset about some of our fallen brothers not being posted, but as I remember we have all been admonished to do what we can to make this site complete. I served A co. 1/35th march to july 1968 as a field medic with no time off. Watched my brothers die and be wounded by combat and accidents. I too as well as all of us are upset in ways only we know. Please dont take what Im saying as a put down but If you havent already sought help from the VA or your belief system ,church or what ever , about how you feel about what WE went through then, please take time and do so as I and many others have. The guys that run this site are out of this world and do a great job which means so much to all uf us ,more than they even know.Roy thank you for serving our country and I wish you the best. Gary Doc Rose.
I want to comment on the Shotgun Program and roy Greenfeather msg. The Association is doing a great job in honoring those who served and facilitating contact between
our Cacti brothers. As the result of contacting "A Walk with the 35th" I was put in contact with; De la RosaCco,received a copy of the citation of Bco PUC, a copy of the 10 Alfa After action Report and Ben Youman's and the
Association. I have provided some names and documents to be
used on the Web page. This is my point, is up to us to insure our brothers receive their dur recognition, now that we are also honoring WWII and Korea Cacti's we can also honor the predeployment Cacti's that also served. I didnt participate on the Shotgun Program (got pulled out of the Bus with an appendicitis attack on the way to Hickam)but there is a lot of corporate memory about that period to be able to reconstruct the history. Frank Willard C2/35, Roy Greenfeather A 2/35, SGM Norkett B2/35, Officers, Tryon, Ord, Mcquillen led Shotgun Groups to Nam. Dennis Pitsenberger B2/35 was KIA in 65 during Shotgun. Iam in contact with a group of D2/35(Battle Group Days from 62)from those days Al Wells (later Bco Co),Tom Durham(later Aco Co)Ben Evans C/D co(Diseased)and Herbert Butt Dco (later KIA RVN)led Shotgun Platoons. With all that memory available the research can be done and that chapter of Cacti history recorded. When we initially got to Nam having the Shotgun veterans was very valuable, they had knowledge of the country, the enemy and had been tried by fire. Other duties kept me from Buffalo but plan to be in Orlando.
SGM(RET)Charles H Beauchamp -- Salem OR USA -- 08/01/2003 Email
Hi
Looking for anyone who might have served with B Co, lst Bat, 35th, from Aug 50 thru Mar 51. Joined B Co on C Rat hill at Mason around 10-15 Aug 50. Was Med Aid Man. Went on to Vietnam and retired as 1SG in 1969.
Hi Roy,
Thanks for your post. Jim Anderson's "Walk With The 35th" is an associated site and there is a direct link to it from our home page. There you will find mucho info about the Paul Revere Ops and much, much more. I wrote at least one major Newsletter article on Paul Revere including Ron Ray's MOH day, the 7/3/66 B, 1/35 fight, and the big 2/35th fight 8/66. I also did a brief one on the Shotgunners. Roy, that Shotgunner stuff you mentioned is great---but remember--only you guys "there" know that stuff--so get it down on paper and we will be glad to post it! Thanks again Bro and come see us next year in Orlando!
Best Wishes
Dick
Roy I see your post on the guest book. Bro you don't have to knock our website. The info is not there because guys who know it have not submitted it.
If you have the info then get it to us and it will be posted.
While I appreciate your constructive comments I ask you back to provide us the info and it will be put on there.
I think your comments about the war didn't start when dave got there is a tad harsh.
We are all volunteers with this group and don't get paid a dime. Dave muxo, dave fogg and jim anderson our webmaster and historians put in a lot of their personal time and money out there own pockets to get the history we have.
If you read the last Cacti News you saw an article about Aloha Airlines and if you look at the kia list you will see we have honored the Shotgun Platoon guys. We have asked several times for more input about the Shotgun Platoon.
I give you this challenge, to work with us on this history. If you want it on there will you help to get the info??
Take Arms in Brotherhood.
By the way your email is configured in a method that might prevent a response. So I will post this on the website as well.
DAVE I STARTED TO THINKING ABOUT EVERTHING THAT HAPPEND BEFORE YOU GUYS GOT THERE I SEE NOTHING ABOUT 1964 /1966 HOW ABOUT THE DOOR GUNNERS 1964 LEE GOKE /100PCT DISB HHC/2/35 SP/4 SP/4 SANTOS /SHOT DOWN TWICE /SP/4 NAUPUTI GROUNDED BECAUSE HE WENT APE ON US AND ALSO THER IS NOTHING ABOUT OPERATION PAUL REVEARE THIS WAS SUPPOSED TO BE THE LONGEST OPERATION IN RVN AND REALLY WHAT PI%%%%%ME OF IS THERS IS NOTHING IN THE HISTORY LINKS ABOUT 18 APR 66 I KNOW I WASNT THE ONLY ONE THERE BYNUM/KING/KULPEPPER/CARTER KIA AGAIN BROTHERS THE WA DIDNT START WHEN YOU GOT THERE ROY L GREENFEATHER 1SG RET
ROY L GREENFEATHER -- YAKIMA WA USA -- 08/01/2003 Email
ON THIS DATE 1966 I LOST SOME TRUE BROTHERS HOPKINS /STEWERT/GARTER /GARCIA WE ALL WERE IN HAWAII TOGEATHER AND GOT REAL CLOSE TO EACH OTHER AND ALSO OUR FAMIES KNEW ONE AND ANOTHER ITS STILL HARD TO LIVE WITH IT COULD HAVE BEEN ANY OF US GOD BLESS ALL WHO ARE IN HARMS WAY ROY L GREENFEATHER 1SG RET
RO L GREENFEATHER -- SELAH WA USA -- 07/31/2003 Email
Just a short note to thank everyone invloved in the planning for our re-union in Buffalo.
The ceremony with the yellow flowers in rememberence of our fallen brothers was the most moving tribute I've ever witnessed. It sure meant allot to Tom Scott, brother of Duane Scott. Anyone wishing to read the E-mail I received from Tom, let me know And I will forward it to you.
Keep the faith.
Peanut
I served with LT Gentinne in the First Platoon of Alpha Company 1/35 from April to August 1969. The Eltee died on 12 May 1969. He was a good leader.
F. A. Richardson -- Newport News VA USA -- 07/29/2003 Email
I just wanted to say it was an honor and a previledge to have met the ones that made the CACTI what it is today. I enjoyed hearing all of your stories. I wish that every solider in the CACTI could experience what I have. I will defienately keep in touch with you guys and e-mail you pictures of what is going on within Bravo company. "TAKE ARMS" CACTI
Micheal Herbert -- Wahiawa HI USA -- 07/29/2003 Email
To all my cacti brothers,
I want to thank all of you for the very mind opening experience that i got the chance to share with you in buffalo. The association is one of the greatest things i can think of that i could ever be part of. Thank you so much for the hospitality and conversation i had from all of you. You all are amazing. I have come back and started to share with everyone the memories, honer, dedication, and tradition that you all have passed on to me. The cacti assn. will never end even if i have to personally carry it on my back. You are all to special to me and to the cacti to ever forget even another 40 years from now. I know the association will continue to grow because of all the great people in it. I had some good laughs when i got back to the "Ace of Spades" seeing Joels, Charlie's, Ben's, and Ron's pictures just to name a few. You guys may be older but i swear you guys are looking just as good as you ever have. All of you take care and please, please email me as much as possible or please just give me a call 937 524 9007. I want and expect to hear from all of you so i can keep up on you. Like i said i havent heard enough stories and traditions from all of you yet. With that i will leave you for now. Take Arms Cacti!!! Charlie Rock 2/35th Cacti Blue!!!!
Sincerely, Dustin Young PFC USA
Dustin Young -- Schofield Brks. HI USA -- 07/28/2003 Email
dennis pitsenbarger was my uncle that died in vietnam before i was ever thought of.i am very proud of him and wish i could of known him.i served my country in the u.s. army in operation desert storm in the 24th infantry division.thanks for remembering him.
gary m. pitsenbarger
gary pitsenbarger -- stuarts draft va USA -- 07/28/2003 Email
Just seen were BOB Hope Pass away last night we are all going to miss him very much Thanks for the memoys BOB
Frank Willard Cacti
Frank Willard -- Wichita Ks USA -- 07/28/2003 Email
Hope you all had a great time. Wish I could have been there this year. Maybe next year.
Keep well brother.
Rodger Leffler -- Kaniva vi aust. -- 07/28/2003 Email
Hope you all had a great time in Buffalo. Wish I could have been there.
Here's wishing you all the best.
Class of 70 Recon
Tom Wyrostek -- Springfield MA USA -- 07/27/2003 Email
Cousin of Walt and old neighbor from Camp Enari :-) Hope you guys are having a good time and renewing old friendships at your reunion. If I didn't have prior plans I would have been there with Wally. Our reunion is in San Antonio this year Oct.23-26. Any of you are welcome to attend. It is being hosted by Peter Holt, owner of the world champion Spurs. All the info is on our website. Have a drink on me and above all ... WELCOME HOME!!!
HOPE EVERYONE HAS A GOOD TIME AT THE REUNION SORRY WE COULDN'T MAKE IT MAYBE NEXT YEAR
PAUL WATSON C/2/35/1966
PAUL D WATSON -- MUSKEGON MI USA -- 07/25/2003 Email
Cacti!
Reunion is soon to be. Am sending thoughts "upwards", for good weather during these days. I know you will all have a Great time together! T G C!
Sincerely
A.B
Just read in the guestbook about 1LT Graham White. Happy to hear that expectations are for his full recovery. I am Spc. Kanaan Merriken's grandmother. He was one of the Rangers that was critically injured on June 26, 2003. We are also happy to report Kanaan is doing well and has surpassed all expectations. He is currently awaiting transfer to Tampa, Fla. for rehab. Our thanks to all that provided such wonderful medical care and to all that sent their prayers and support. His dramatic recovery has truly been a miracle. Our prayers continue to be with those families that lost their loved ones. We wish the others a full recovery also.
pgutierrez -- Albuquerque NM USA -- 07/22/2003 Email
Fellow Cacti: As we remember 29 Cacti who fell on this day in Korea, it is my sad duty to report that Charles Thomas Newton, Jr., C Company, WWII, is gravely ill. If you knew Charles, or would like to pass on a message to him through his son, please send it to me, or directly to William Newton, crowsden@aol.com.
Members and Friends, I have great news! George Enriquez Recon 2/35th 1969 is home from Iraq. Where he served as a Reservist. He was assigned as a supply truck driver supporting the 3rd infantry division. George and his wife are currently in route to Buffalo for the reunion. Please join me in thanking God for George's safe return.
Wiley Dodd (Tiny) -- Riverview MI USA -- 07/21/2003 Email
I am looking for information on William "Bill" Lewis -Specialist Four, 3rd Plt, Co B, 1st Bn, 35th Infantry; KIA July 3, 1966. I would like to correspond with anyone who knew him or who might have a photo. I am working on a memorial and any info I can get would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.
Steve Wiseman -- Belle Plaine KS USA -- 07/19/2003 Email
Dennis was my only brother,He amd I were very -very close growing up together.He has been missed every day sense his death.and loved by all that ever met him.Many thanks for haveing this page in his memory.....Dennis's brother....RAY
Ray Pitsenbarger -- Staunton Va USA -- 07/19/2003 Email
It is now only 4 days and a wakeup before the Cacti begin gathering in Buffalo, Ny for our 5th Reunion. This will be the Mother of All Cacti Reunions with around 350 Cacti, Family and Guests having a heck of a time. So everyone does not think this is one of those just party down affairs we have a Memorial Ceremony that is one of the finest there is to honor all Cacti who have passed on or were Killed while serving their Country. I am honored to be part of this great outfit with so many great people. Next year is set for July29-August 01, 2004 in Kissimee Florida (suburb of orlando)just a mile from Disney. Make plans now and bring the whole family. Details will be in the next Cacti Magazine and posted here after this years Reunion. As my brother Cacti Pete says "once you are pricked by the Cacti you are always a Cacti".
Take Arms and Cacti Forever
KNOLL,ROBERT E. SSG
Lois and Bernard Knoll, Margie and Jennifer. I am so sorry it took me 35 years to visit your house on Home Ave. The warmth I felt I will never forget. Your Robert sure has a loving family. He truley was a lucky guy. I know he is missed. I miss him.
Rich
Rich Vandepels -- Cape Coral Fl USA -- 07/17/2003 Email
Hi, To anyone out there who recieved packages of goodies from Lois Knoll. In case you have wondered through the years how they are,just thought I'd let you know they are alive and well. They summer in Michigan and winter in Florida. They have five grandchildren and two great grandchildren with number three on the way. If anyone would like to say Hi they would love to hear from you. They still live at 286 Home Ave. Holland Mi. 49424 (616)396-3775 or e-mail me. Have a great time at your reunion.
Jennifer Knol -- Holland Mi USA -- 07/17/2003 Email
Was from Minnesota and went into Company L from the 2nd Division prior to the 25th Division moving to Schofield in August of 1954. Made move with the Division and stayed in Co. L until I was discharged in June 1956
Ronald R. Schneider -- Lake Worth MN USA -- 07/17/2003 Email
i just hope all those that are going to the reunion have a safe trip.may your memories have some good ones and some of those who are no longer here.i thank you all for what you have gave and given to me and everyone in this country.you have given the greatest gift.you gave of yourself.may God Bless and Keep all of you
mary elizabeth wyant fast -- moline il USA -- 07/16/2003 Email
Servered with B co 2/35 in jan-feb 1967. Was RTO for A Btry 2/9 Arty. Anyone out there that remembers?
JOHN M. WALDMAN -- Birmingham Al USA -- 07/16/2003 Email
I am looking for anyone who knew a Sgt. Stanley Ciemiega during WWII. Stanley was from Lowell, Mass. Stanley was in the 1st Platoon, C Company, 35th Regiment from December 6, 1940 until he was KIA on April 17, 1945. Stanley was a Pearl Harbor Survivor, fought in Guadalcanal, Vella LaVella, and was KIA in Kapintalan, near Balete Pass.
Stanley was friends with Marion Hyder. I am looking for anyone who might remember him, Marion or the events surrounding April 13-20, 1945.
Scott Carver -- Alta Loma Ca USA -- 07/15/2003 Email
For all you 1/35th guys and wives, I've made a reservation at the hotel restaurant for our first annual 1/35th luncheon. Some of you have already emailed your intention to come, but if you haven't, please send a note now so that I'll know if I need to increase the reservation. Next year we'll do something a little more formal.
For all you guys thinking I wished I had made plans to attend the reunion. It's not to late! get on the phone or computer, find a room and come. If you haven't attended one before ask someone who has. You won't be sorry.
Your Sergeant at Arms
Wiley Dodd (Tiny) -- Riverview Mi USA -- 07/14/2003 Email
I AM LOOKING FOR ANY INFORMATION ON MY UNCLE JERRY GOOCH. HE DIED ON 07-25-67. I WOULD BE INTERSETED IN HEARING FROM ANYONE WHO KNEW HIM. THANK YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE.
Fellow Cacti: Our bulletin board provider, Bravenet, recently went through an upgrade, and they lost our bulletin board. We have decided not to create a new one. Please post your messages here instead.
I WAS IN gEORGE CO. FROM 51/52. THIS WAS A FINE OUT FIT AND ANY ONE THAT DOES NOT BELONG PLEASE JOIN/ THANKS TO THE PEOPLE WHO MADE THIS POSSIBLE.. SID HAMER
SIDNEY N HAMER -- SPRUCE CREEK PA USA16683 -- 07/10/2003 Email -- http://none
Your very special web is included in the http://vietnam.start4all.com under Vietnam War
A Must 4 All Veterans of the VietNam War
LtCol Roald Atle Furre (RAF)
Oslo - Norway
to Charles Rea concerning LZ Penny...I tried to e-mail you but had no luck..please send me an e-mail.
ts
TOC 2/35th 68-69
TERRY SAVELY -- sugar land tx USA -- 07/08/2003 Email
Thank you for details of my cousin's son's injuries.
Maggie Johnson -- San Diego CA USA -- 07/05/2003 Email
Greetings,
Firstly I want to thank you all for remembering and honoring so many of those who have been forgotten. I am looking for information on Robert Julian Davis Jr. A company 35th infatry, 3rd. Brigade, 25th infantry division. KIA August 7th. 1967. He was my dad's best friend in Galena MD. I am very proud to be named after him. I stumbled across a web page with pictures and a bio of him on your web site, which I sent to my dad. I recognize one of the pictures since it is from the yearbook my dad has. Since then my dad has been hoping to correspond with anyone who might have known him. He would like some info from anyone that might have served with him. My Dad is also a veteran, having served in the Navy. Thank you very much.
Julian D. Huffman -- Washington DC USA -- 07/04/2003 Email
Lawrence R. Chase - Korean War: I am his son and seeking soldiers who knew or served with my father. A records search has uncovered General Orders #13 HQ X Corps awarding the following:
BRONZE STAR MEDAL (OAK LEAF CLUSTER)
Capt Lawrence R. Chase; Adjutant General Corps; Korea
13 Sep 50 - 20 Jan 52
1st LT James C. Godsey; Adjutant General Corps; Korea
7 Aug 51 - 20 Jan 52
WOJG James R. Nicholson; Korea 7 Aug 51 - 20 Jan 52
Good Conduct Medal
Cpl Dwight M. Butler; HQ X Corps 3 Jan 49 - 2 Jan 52
I do not know if the 35th served in X Corps
Any information would be greatly appreciated.
L. Rex Chase 407-208-0521; rchase@cfl.rr.com
Lawrence Rexford Chase Jr. -- Orlando FL USA -- 07/04/2003 Email
i hope all of those who knew my brother have a safe 4th and spend precious time with their families.i come here to see my brother and to his gravesite for that is all i have of him.and now my father is by Doug also.would like to put my dad in here but do not know how to go about it.if anyone knows please e-mail me.it will be greatly appreciated. my brother in law is over in Iraq now.he was sent a few weeks ago.may he and those there be watched over by God and his angels.please pray for those there for alas they are now in harms way and their loved ones hearts are aching for their loss and safety.may they all come home soon. mary elizabth wyant fast
mary elizabth wyant fast -- moline il USA -- 07/03/2003 Email
Fellow Cacti: The Guestbook entries prior to June 2003 have been archived. To see them select Archived Guestbooks from the Guestbook menu.
An excellent web site. To all of the Fighting Gypsys, You guys were the Greatest. There was nothing that you could not accomplish. Thanks for your support. How time flies when you are having a great time. A/1-35th 1968-1969
Richard D. Wandke -- Cypress CA USA -- 06/30/2003 Email
All Cacti this is the son of Rick White Plt Ldr Charlie 2/35th and Recon Plt Ldr 2/35 1967-1968 Vietnam.
Dear Family & Friends,
The White family sincerely thanks all of you for your prayers and concern for our son, 1LT Graham R. White. This message is an attempt to provide some information and clarity of the events leading up to and immediately after the action that resulted in Graham's and his men's injuries.
Graham was in Afghanistan in the late summer/early fall of 2002 and in Iraq during the major fighting of March/April 2003. His unit returned to Fort Benning, Ga. in late April. Part of his unit returned to Iraq in mid June 2003.
In the early morning hours(Iraq time)of Thursday, 26 June, an action took place that was reported in the international news media as, "An ambush of a US Special Operations convey returning to their base at Baghdad International Airport". This "convoy" was Graham's platoon (about 40 men) riding on 5 Humvees with about 8 men per vehicle. They were returning from a night mission when 2 remotely controlled munitions were set off from an overhead structure (bridge, tunnel, ??).
Graham was in the lead vehicle, right front seat. The Machine-Gunner, CPL Chris, was on top and was KIA while the remaining 7 men were all WIA. No one in the other 4 vehicles was injured. Everyone was wearing body armor and helmets which limited the injuries and saved lives. Fortunately, soon after the explosion, the wounded were being attended in the US Army Field Hospital located on the airport.
Their wounds were mainly from the explosion, concussion and shrapnel. The classification, ranks, last names, and a few of the major injuries of the WIAs, as I know them are:
KIA - CPL Chris
WIA - SGT Conneway & SPC Merriken - Head
1LT White - Chest & Left Arm
SSG Everett, SPC Bunnell, PFC Radbill & PFC Watson -
various/multiple wounds
Graham's wounds required removal of major pieces of shrapnel from his chest and left arm and the slowing/stopping of internal bleeding. Within a few hours of his initial operation and when his condition was stable enough, he was evacuated to Landstuhl US Army Hospital in Germany, arriving at about mid-day (Germany time) Friday, 27 June.
Around mid-night (Germany time) Friday, Rick was able to talk to Graham's, ICU Nurse. The nurse said that upon arrival 12 hours earlier, "Lieutenant White was a very sick and not doing so well young man". He also said that, "With his youth (25), his strong/healthy body, dedicated medical attention, and ... MAINLY, DUE TO THE EVIDENCE OF MANY PRAYERS ... YOU SON IS IMPROVING BY THE HOUR!!" This was VERY sweet news to hear, as you can imagine!
It is expected that Graham will be in Germany for a few days to a week and then will be further evacuated to a military medical facility in the US. He is not totally out of danger yet, but all indications are that his recovery should be a complete one. As major up-dates occur, I will attempt to provide information.
Your continued prayers are requested for the family of CPL Chris, for the speedy recovery of the 7 WIAs, and for all the men and women of our Armed Forces, world-wide.
Again, we thank you for your prayers and those of your prayer chains. There is ZERO doubt that these prayers have and are making the difference for our Soldier and others.
May GOD Bless You All,
Rick & Pamela White
CACTI - The "Walk With the 35th" website has proudly mergd with the Association site. It affords a great opportunity to work with Dave Muxo, who has done such an outstanding job and gives us the opportunity to bring you even more information without those nasty pop-up ads. NEW Items posted include all of the Vietnam Era DSC winners, 15 in all. And for you WWII guys we've finished posting the battle of Luzon. Our history is now online from its beginnings to the end of WWII. Now we can turn our attention to our Korean Era Brothers. Were going to need your input guys, don't be bashful about sending me an e-mail. Thanks for everyone's support in the past. And I want everyone to know how excited I am to be working with Dave. Take care - Jim
Thinking of all you cacti that are going to be in Buffalo next week and wishing my husband John and I were among them. He passed away on March 18,2003 and for all of you who knew Sgt.John H.King in Vietnam-B Co-2/35th Inf.64-67 you know what a loss it is for all of us. He was and always will be a soldier first. He was so excited when we found this website and I am really sorry that he was not well enough to really appreciate how wonderful it is. He never talked about Vietnam very much.We were very young and were married in Hawaii while the co was on alert. I hope that you all have a great time and share a lot of memories. Maybe I can be there next year. You are like part of our family as we all grew up together and it was a hard trip. All I have to say is you were all great then and you are all great now. Anyone talks to Joe Maroney tell him to write. John was looking for him. Have a great reunion. Cathy King
Cathy King -- St Petersburg Fl USA -- 06/28/2003 Email
All Cacti and those who are willing we need your prayers. 1LT Graham White, son of Rick White, Plt Leader Charlie Company and Recon Plt Leader 1967-1968 2/35th, was wounded in Iraq in the ambush yesterday. Graham is with the 75th Rangers and was part of the ambush that killed 1 US and wounded 7. Graham was hit by shrapnel thru the arm and into the chest cavity. He was evacuated to Landstuell Hospital in Germany. He is not out of the woods yet. No major organs were damaged. Please join with me in Prayers for a Cacti Son who is honorably serving his country.
Take Arms.
anyone who remembers Lz. Penny i would appreicate your comments. either before or after, any other time.
Charles N. Rea -- Harrison Ar USA -- 06/27/2003 Email
My father was William Dale Stovall from Sanford, Florida. I am still looking for any Cacti that may have served with him in Vietnam. He arrived on Sept. 3, 1968 at Bam Me Thout and was KIA on Oct. 31, 1968 near Duc Lap. I was not born until May 1969 so I never got to meet my dad. If anyone has any info or leads I may search please e-mail me. Thanks for your help with this. Cacti Forever, Kellie, family Co.B 2nd/35th.
Kellie Ash -- Prairieville LA USA -- 06/25/2003 Email
We were able to obtain a photograph and other information regarding KENNETH J.JOANIS, D/2/35, KIA-5/18/69 for our KIA memorial thanks to the help of Robert W. Schulte of St. Louis. Mr. Schulte was a good hometown friend of Ken Joanis. In the past he exchanged emails with a 35th Infantry veteran who said he was the last person to talk to Ken Joanis. Mr. Schulte would like to talk with that man again or others who knew Ken Joanis. If anyone knew Ken please contact me so I can give you the contact information for Robert Schulte in St. Louis. Thanks Guys!
WWII Veteran Lawrence R. Chase. I am looking for soldiers who knew or served with my father. He was wounded twice on Luzon, PI on 2/2/45 & 4/8/45. Others listed on the General Orders were: William H. Doering(Wishek,ND);Fred J. Foster(New Market,TN);George B. Seitz(Louisville,KY);Charles R. Smith(Childersburg,AL);Lynn B. Riley(Wichita,KS);Patricio Solano(Miami,NM).Info I have indicates Platoon Ldr Co. L 12/21/43-9/25/45 & Commanding Officer Co. M 9/26/45-11/16/45. He also received a Bronze Star which no information was available. Any information would be greatly appreciated. His son Rex Chase (RCHASE@CFL.RR.com)
Lawrence Rexford Chase -- Orlando FL USA -- 06/23/2003 Email
Does anyone remember Gordon Miller from Oregon?? In a small album of his, Souvenir of Vietnam, I found where he had written A Co 1/35 Inf. The only names I was able to find on the pictures were The Bear, Red, Smitty, Eddy Baysmore, Paul, Lou Baysmore and Doe. My twin sister and I would like to find out more since our dad never talked about it and we never asked. Our dad died in Dec. of 1990 at the age of 40. Also trying to figure out a pict. taken of a helicopter with "slick" written on the back. My dad has 4 grandchildren that will never know him, so I'm trying to put together information for them when their older. If anyone has ANY information that might help, I'd really appreciate it.
Alisa Anderson -- Baker City OR USA -- 06/19/2003 Email
Hello. This is a really nice site and was forwarded to me by a friend in hopes it would lead me to where I need to go in order to find a past service man that was in the Army reserves. He passed away some 20-30 years ago. No one has been able to find his discharge papers in order to have a marker placed on his stone so there may be a flag put at his grave on the appropriate days through out the year. Does anyone know where I may go, visit or call to obtain past discharge papers or a copy? Any help would be very much appreciated. I enjoyed my visit here today. Thank You.
Welcome home guys! Hope to see you at the reunion!
Sgt. 2nd Platoon Robert E. Goff -- Milwaukee Wi USA -- 06/16/2003 Email
My brother Curtis H. Bullard Alpha Co. 2nd Battalion 35th infantry regiment was killed in action June 20, 1966 in Pleiku Province, Vietnam. I am looking for anyone who served with Curtis especially in the battle that took his life. My mother was informed that he was MIA/KIA. She can't rest until she finds out the truth in the MIA record and exactly what happened in that battle. I think she would finally find closure afer 30+ years. I am also looking for the families of the 5 other soldiers that died that day. This is an AWESOME site and I want to thank Doc and all of you that put it together.
Eva Alexander
Eva (Bullard) Alexander -- Poteau OK USA -- 06/15/2003 Email
My father's oldest brother, Larry L. Gambotto, was KIA 9/13/68. On Father's Day, my dad told me about this site. I feel it is a great tribute to see all these men remembered in this way. Thanks.
Larry L. Gambotto II
Larry L. Gambotto II -- Northville MI USA -- 06/15/2003 Email
I am wondering if any of the Alpha Company remembers Floyd Savell? Went to Vietnam March 1966 - Killed on February 14, 1967. His nickname was snake. Would be interested in any information. God bless you guys and take care.
Verda Stanbro -- Baker City OR USA -- 06/13/2003 Email
e-mail address was wrong in last entry.please ignore and go by this one.again any help in this matter will be appreciate.most sincerely mary
mary elizabeth wyant fast -- moline il USA -- 06/12/2003 Email
my family was made aware that my brother Doug didn't have his army headstone as my cousin William Gross has .i am in the process trying to find out how to get my dads.where do we write or go to for this? i have my dads discharge papers but we do not have the death certificate for Doug if it is needed.my dad was in the acorn division in the army in wwII.please if there is anything or any information how to do this honor to my dad and my brother please let me know. most sincerely mary elizabeth wyant fast
this message is for the guys in alpha-1st of 35th, that served in-country around may/67 to may/68.
I'm trying to locate a tall redheaded guy from South Boston,Ma. He and I went through basic together at fort dix. advance training at fort jackson. and wound up as replacements for the 35th. he went to alpha and I went to bravo.
we even met each other onetime when our companys crossed paths on some firebase.
I went to see him one time after we got out of the service, but, I think we were a little shell-shock and I went my way and he went his way.
if anybody remembers being with a guy from Boston, give me a shout.
soup, B/D,1/35th.
Roger E. Surprenant -- Fairhaven Ma USA -- 06/11/2003 Email
Fellow Cacti: As webmaster, I have excercised my perogative and I have deleted the discussion concerning Hal Moore and the movie "We Were Soldiers" for the following reason: 1. We do not accept posts of excessive length. 2. The subject matter is not relevant to the 35th Infantry Regiment. The responses were deleted because they would refer to a non-existant post.
just noticed this was on my computer.i am proud to be put in the cacti as my brother was .my brother was in with some wonderful soldiers.i have talked to a couple and they are just great.my family thanks you all for the page on the web about my brother Spec4 william Douglas Wyant.we miss him dearly each and everyday .most sincerely mary elizabeth wyant fast
mary elizabeth fast -- moline il USA -- 06/09/2003 Email
B 1/35 June '68 to June '69
Dave Muxo posted my photos on this website. I owe an apology to Jerre Gamble for misspelling his first name when I typed it on the photos. I have recently been in touch with Jerre and also with Pete Arceo. This website was responsible for that. Thank you all who have contributed.
Sincerely, Joe Farmer
Joe Farmer -- Scotts Valley CA USA -- 06/09/2003 Email
Hello all,
One of my coworker's father who is now deceased served in the Korean War . The family is missing some of his decorations and needs to know the process for getting the necessary paperwork and where to process it . I believe he said some of the paperwork (discharge papers etc . were lost in a fire ) Any help would be greatly appreciated .
Best regards , Tom Kehoe A1/35 67-68
P.S. see you all in Buffalo
Hi to all my Cacti dads! I hope all is well with you. I think of you often. I was visiting the website tonight and thought I would drop a line. The reunion should be great this year. I don't know if we will attend. We sure would like to though. Take care and keep in touch. Miss all of you and can't wait to get together again.
Kellie
"William Dale Stovall"
Co.B 2/35th 1968
Kellie Ash -- Prairieville LA USA -- 06/05/2003 Email
I guess some men from A 1/35th 3rd plt remember june 3 and 4th. 1968 I was there, remember it often and the men we lost. Lt Grossehart and I shared a hole we dug in abaut 15 min after the first morters came in, only one man from my plt was hurt but I know many from the other company were hurt and killed. The NVA almost got in on us I remember on our side of the hill 2 NVA were found no more than 20 feet from our position. Some of the guys dont remember that I have talked to maybe just as well because we were all close to death that night and some dident maybe know it. I will never foget my time there and hope to meet some of our guys again one day. Gary Doc Rose.
AT THIS TIME OUR REUNION HOTEL IN BUFFALO, THE ADAMS MARK, IS SOLD OUT. WE HAVE USED OUR ALLOCATION OF ROOMS AND THEY CANT GIVE US ANYMORE RIGHT NOW. WE ARE MAKING CALLS TO GET AN OVERFLOW HOTEL NEARBY. IF YOU CALL ADAMS MARK AND CANT GET A ROOM PLEASE EMAIL ME SO WE CAN KEEP A LIST. IF ANY OF YOU HAVE SINGLE ROOMS AND CAN TAKE A ROOMMATE OR NEED A ROOMMATE (FELLOW VET)LET ME KNOW. WHAT THIS SAYS IS WE WILL PROBABLY HAVE OUR BIGGEST REUNION EVER. THIS IS THE 5TH ANNIVERSARY AND WE HAVE A GREAT EVENT PLANNED THANKS TO OUR REUNION COMMITTEE HEADED BY PETER BIRROW.
MAIL YOUR REGISTRATION FORMS IN TO PETE ASAP.
REMEMBER THE BRAVO 2/35TH LUNCH ON FRIDAY AND THE CHARLIE COMPANY 2/35TH GET TOGETHER FRIDAY EVENING.
Ben C23568@gte.net
I would love to hear from guys who served with "C" 1-35th June 1968 to 1969. My wife and I are planning to attend the reunion in Buffalo, New York. Hope many of my brothers are there.
Thomas Besaw
1-35th, Charlie Company
4th Inf Div. June '68-'69
Thomas Besaw -- Oakdale MN USA -- 06/04/2003 Email
would like to thank all who helped put my brother Spec William Douglas Wyant on the web site.they did a beautiful job.received my first cacti book.i am in awe of all the valiant soldiers who fought so bravely for all of us.they have and had gone beyond their call of duty.we in this country owe you more than can ever be expressed.i am humbled in your midst and wish to express my own gratitude for all you have given.may God Bless all of you and watch over you now and till time is no more.My brother was among special people and i know he counted you all as his friends as you all shall be to our family always.sincerely mary elizabeth wyant fast
mary elizabeth wyant fast -- moline il USA -- 06/04/2003 Email
I sent copies of the articles which I wrote for the Ivy Leaf in my possession to Jim Anderson and he has put them on this website. Because I was out of the country almost all of March, 1969, and left for home on 7/16/69, I do not have copies of stuff published during March or after DEROS (this would mostly be events in Feb., 1969, and after 6/15/69). My stuff may or may not have a byline, but it will only be about the 2/35. If anyone has articles about 2/35 which Jim did not put on his timeline, I would appreciate getting copies. Just copy them, mark the copy with the issue or event date if known, and mail to me at 416 Green Meadow Lane, Mars Hill, NC 28754. Also if you have articles on 1/35, you can also send them and I will make sure Jim gets a copy of everything for the website. email me if you have questions. If you need postage, let me know the amount and I'll send it. Thanks much. Mike (Professor)
Mike Tousey -- Mars Hill NC USA -- 06/04/2003 Email
I guess that we're all over 50 now. Back then the kids among us were 19. Us "old guys" at 21 learned quickly that this was not an issue. We were young but we became old in days or weeks. We became closer than most families and we swore we'd stay that way even after we came back to the "World" Of course we didn't.
When one of our "Brothers" died we had no time to grieve. The immediate area had to be secured. The wounded and the dead had to be evacuated. Ammo had to be resupplied. Then it was time to move out.
Grief was a luxury that we couldn't afford. Awareness of your surroundings might allow you to live. Anything that interfered with that awareness might mean that you die. So you put them on the choppers and you did your best to forget.
Now over 30 years later, we still suppress our grief. But we never forget. We still see those 19, 20, 21 year old faces in our minds. Their memories pop up on certain dates. Or maybe they are triggered by events around us. For many of us a week or maybe even a day doesn't go by without these memories.
These "Brothers" we can never forget. Our memories of them may be sad or happy; terrifying or tranquil; faded or focused; denied or welcomed. But our memories are forever. June 4 marks 33 years since we lost Guinn. Robert George Guinn R.I.P. We miss you buddy!
Jim "Doc" Hall -- Woodbury NJ USA -- 06/03/2003 Email
Charlie company, 1st Battalion, 4th platoon. June 3rd, for some reason I woke up this am thinking about that day. Just thought I would pass along a reminder to you guys to remember our brothers who didn't make it through the night, Brockmier and Butler, also Lt. Gilmer. Rick.
Rick Blomberg -- Spokane Wa USA -- 06/03/2003 Email
The Spring 2003 issue of the Cacti Magazine (52 pages) was mailed last week and should be in you mailboxes soon. That is if you are a Member in good standing.
There are quite a few outstanding articles and the beginning of the Cacti History Series in the issue. Thanks to Jim Anderson for putting the history in a document for us to be able to print.
Comments, both plus and minus are welcome and more articles are always needed. Dont worry about spelling etc I can edit it for you.
See you all in Buffalo.
Ben, Editor & Publisher -- USA -- 06/01/2003 Email