As you can see, I was just a child on the outside, but inside, I
had learned to be an Adult, the hard way. The innocence of youth was quickly
leaving me. There was nothing that would shock me anymore. I believe I had seen
it all. I had become someone else.
The sunsets in Viet Nam were beautiful, except you knew the
nights were very long. You learn Charlie came alive at night. This was his home,
and he wasn't going to give it up for some kid like me.
Ronnie, and I would become close friends. Ronnie carried a M79 launcher,
with bee hive rounds,he was from New York. He was nineteen. He had just graduated
from High School the previous year. Now He was with us, the 184th. Ordinance
Battalion. We station in Qui Nhon. We pulled sweeps around Tank Farm II.
As well as the main Heliport.
Ronnie sighting in his M79.
Ronnie gives me some lessons on firing the M79.
Taking a break, it's going to be a long night.
You learn to make friends. It's been so long, the faces are
etched in memory, but the names now slip my mind.
This
is our platoon. 184th. Ord. Battalion, Company 2. Facing us with hand on chin is
Ernie. He was the only guy I met from Oregon. I talk to him recently, he lives
in Alaska. It's been a long time Ernie, We made it.!
That's me, complete with flight jacket, and my trusty M60. That's
what I called my best friend. I took care of it, and it would take care of me. To all my companions from the 184th. that made it back, I say Welcome
Home. We were the best, the Army had to give. To those who stayed and gave their
life's, you are still with us, in heart and soul, If it weren't for you, we wouldn't
be here. We carry a debt that we cannot repay. It follows us every day of our life's.
While some of us received a metal you received a flag. You gave it
all.
Thank you! Tio
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