Tan Son Nhut Association Bulletin Board

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~ TAN SON NHUT ASSOCIATION REPORTS THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION ~

Welcome to the TSNA Bulletin Board! This website is family-friendly.

Click the .pdf icon on the left to open the Tan Son
Nhut Association, Dayton, Ohio, 2012 Reunion, registration form.

Print out the registration form and mail it in soon.

Tan Son Nhut Association 2012 Reunion Attendees
Bessette, Carol and John Carvell, Rich and Sue Coup, Bill Crews, Bridget Crews, James Crews, Kathy Csordas, Andy and Rena Dawe, James Faulkner, James and Jan Fields,Gary Fischer, Paul and Duane Fry, Larry and Lois Gard, Dean and Debbie	Houck, Ross Jernigan, Johnnie and Sharon McCasland, Louise Munoz, Gary and Deborah Parker, Don and Sue Ellen Penley, Charles and Janice Jones Plunkett, George and Trish Redlinski, Gary and Diana Shendow, Irving and Sarah Speicher, William and Louise Tessier, Thomas Umbras, Peter and Anne Conable Zaman, Marilyn
October 11-14, 2012 Dayton, Ohio

Name: Sarah Anderson

May 15, 2012

Email:

Comments:  I came across your site, Tan Son Nhut Association and noticed that we share a similar interest in the health and wellness of Veterans.

I think that your site offers a wonderful source of information and relevant resources to your viewers.  I believe I have a great addition to your collection of links.

My name is Sarah Anderson, the Communications Director for Mesothelioma Resource Online.  Approximately 30% of all patients in the US diagnosed with this lethal form of cancer served in the military at some point.

However, our site, located at URL: www.MesotheliomaSymptoms.com is an excellent resource to learn about Asbestos, in the military and the various treatment options, for Mesothelioma.

Respectfully,

Sarah Anderson

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	May 15, 2012
1. Earnest, Tom A., Texas, 377th Combat Support Group (Renewed his membership) 2. Smith, Jimmy L., OH, OLAA, Det. 2, 15th Aerial Spt. Sq., Quinhon Army Airfield, Air Freight (New Member)

Name: Joe Kricho	May 14, 2012
Email: Comments: Tan Son Nhut Association Members: Fourty-two (42) years later, another Vietnam Veteran, is to posthumously receive the "Medal of Honor," at a White House ceremony on Wednesday, May 16, 2012. Please go to URL: http://vvmf.wordpress.com/2012/05/14/so-others-may-live/

Name: Richard Fulton

May 11, 2012

Email:

Comments:  TWO NATIONAL NEWS STORIES of interest to Vietnam Veterans

#1  Mothers Day, addition of ten more names to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.  Keynote speech will be given by Lieutenant General Claude M. Kicklighter, US Army, Retired.  General Kicklighter is the Department of Defense Director of Commemorations.

#2  On Memorial Day, the Secretary of Defense will host the National Announcement and a Proclamation for the 50th Commemoration of the Vietnam War, at the Wall in Washington D.C.

For additional information and verification, contact the USA Vietnam Commemoration Office in Arlington, Virginia.  The phone number is 703-588-0213.

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	May 07, 2012
1. Munoz, Gary, Ohio, 7th AF / 13th AF, Scatback, SEFE Pilot - T-39 Aircraft Group (New Member, joined for five years) 2. Reed, James L., California, 7th AF Flt Ops, Scatback T-39 Instructor (Renewed his membership)

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:

May 05, 2012

1.  Butz, Tim, Nebraska, 12th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron
     (Renewed his membership and made a donation to the Memorial Fund)
2.  Estrada, Gilbert J., Mississippi, 7th AF Directorate of Operational Intelligence
     (Renewed his membership and made a donation to the General Fund)
3.  Love, Terry M., Kansas, 1st Signal Brigade (USA), Aviation Section
     (Renewed his membership and made a donation to the General Fund)
4.  Messer, Lowell, Alabama, 6250th Combat Support Group
     (Renewed his membership)
5.  Penn, Hugh D., Georgia, 633rd Combat Support Group, CBPO
     (Renewed his membership)
6.  Starks, George B., Utah, 377th Combat Support Group, CBPO
     (Renewed his membership)

Plaque Fry

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	May 03, 2012
1. Hegele, Robert Sr., Pennsylvania, 377th Security Police Squadron (Renewed his membership.) 2. Williams, Steven, Virginia, 8th Aerial Port Squadron (Renewed his membership.) 3. Young, James, Florida, SJO 3754 (Renewed his membership.)

Name: Charles Penley (377th Security Police Squadron)	May 01, 2012
Email: Comments: Please go to the Photograph of the Month webpage at URL: http://www.tsna.org/photo/index.html There you will see the new photographs for May 2012. Charles Penley

Name: John Schlobohm (110th Aviation Company Depot)	May 01, 2012
Email: Comments: Trying to find some people to help post photos and get a site started for the 110th Aviation Depot, AMMC, Tan Son Nhut Air Base VietNam. Or if any one already knows of such an existing site, please reply with information. Thanks, John Schlobohm, Spec-5 110th Aviation Company Depot August 1969 to Sept 1970

Name: Larry Fry (Detachment 8, 2nd ADVON)	Apr 30, 2012
Email: Comments: The May 2012, issue of the TSNA newsletter, Revetments is now available on the Tan Son Nhut Association website. You can use this link to get to it: http://www.tsna.org/revetments/index.html Larry E. Fry Editor, Revetments

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Apr 27, 2012
1. Busillo, Richard P., Pennsylvania, 120th Assault Helicopter Company, Crew Chief, Gunner (New Member, joined for five years.)

Name: Jeff Ramaley

Apr 26, 2012

Email:

Comments: Hello, I'm wondering if some one could help me. I collect Vietnam gear. One of the items, I've picked up is a beret from the 19th Air Commando unit.

The pin has a black crow wearing a green beret, with a red parachute.

With this, I've got the rocker, "Air Commando" and a pocket patch.

The patch has a pinkish crow, wearing a red beret.

My queston is, "Why the different color beret?

Did the men in this unit, wear a red beret or a green one, or both ?

Thank you for your time,

Jeff

Name: Janice Jones

Apr 26, 2012

Email:

Comments:  Many of you were drafted and many of you volunteered.  When the call to arms went out across the lands, you answered and into battle you did go.   You did not know what your final destination would be.  You walked into harm's way and you became Heroes!  Many did not return. Some have yet to return.  Wherever their final resting place is beneath some unknown ground, it is forever and beyond, hallowed.  It is ground marked and only known by God - Our Father.

Thank you every day for the many blessings of freedom bought, paid for and secured by the many sacrifices of all heroic Military veterans.   We remember your sacrifices!  We honor your courage!  We do not and will never forget that it was you who paid the high price for all of our Freedoms!

Salute,

Janice Jones

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Apr 24, 2012
1. Cragg, James L., Pennsylvania, 7th Air Force Headquartets, Directorate of Munitions (Renewed his membership.) 2. Bullard, Lynn E., Texas, Det 1, 834th Airlift Division (Renewed his membership.)

Name: Gary Redlinski (USA Mortuary, Graves Registration)	Apr 18, 2012
Email: Comments: Attached is this year�s Tan Son Nhut Association, Reunion Logo and website where the apparel can be purchased. The proceeds from sales will go to the TSNA BX/PX. Please go to URL: http://www.cafepress.com/tsnareunionstore Gary

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Apr 18, 2012
1. Layman, Lester C., Texas, 360th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron (Renewed his membership for five years.)

Name: Art Farash (US Army)	Apr 16, 2012
Email: Comments: I saw this site and wondering if there are any photos or articles on the Eastern Orthodox Easter at Tan Son Nhut, in 1968. Several of us Orthodox soldiers from the 4th Inf Div got TDY to travel there for Easter, where USAF Chaplain Michael Margitich had Easter Liturgy. CW3 Art Farash, RET

Name: Tammy M. Jenkins	Apr 16, 2012
Email: Comments: My dad was stationed at Tan Son Nhut in 1969. He was a loadmaster on a C-123 cargo plane in the Air Force. I would like to find out if there is anyone in the association who might have been stationed with my dad. Unfortunately he passed away in 1987 at the age of 53. Any help is greatly appreciated. His name was James Lloyd Morman and he was SSGT. Tammy Morman Jenkins

Name: Paul Gwynn (6250th Support Sq., HQ 7th Air Force)	Apr 15, 2012
Email: Comments: I found an interesting web site that contains a free download of the pamphlet we were all given upon arrival in Vietnam DoD PG 21A "A pocket guide to Vietnam". Click on the URL: http://www.1stcavmedic.com/VNPocketGuide.pdf

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Apr 14, 2012
1. Anselmo, Robert, Illinois, 552nd Transportation Co., (Car) Troop Command, USARV HQ (New Member)

Name: Joseph S. Kricho (1876th Comminications Squadron)

Apr 13, 2012

Email:

Comments: I just wanted to say thank you to all members of the 377th Security Police Squadron for all that they did in keeping us safe at Tan Son Nhut. In particular, the night of Jan 31, 1968 will forever remain in my mind.

This Veterans Day, I plan on visiting the Vietnam Memorial in our nation�s capital and plan to do a rubbing of the names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice that night as my personal tribute and memorial.

I am also looking forward to the Tan Son Nhut Association (TSNA) reunion in Dayton, OH this year in order to renew acquaintance with those who I served with at Tan Son Nhut, and for the TSNA to dedicate a memorial bench at the National Museum of the Air Force.

Joseph Kricho

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Apr 11, 2012
1. McBride, James C., Missouri, USA STRATCOM Regional Comms Group (US Army) (New Member, joined for five years.) 2. Weaver, Samuel R., Texas, Scatback, Instructor Pilot U-3B (Renewed his membership for five years.)

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:

Apr 09, 2012

1.  Carter, Steve, Mississippi, 377th Civil Engineer Squadron
     (Renewed for five years, donated to the "Memorial Bench Fund and the General Fund".)
2.  Cooperman, Ira B., New York, Headquarters 7th Air Force
     (Renewed his membership.)
3.  Fanty, Kenneth W., Ohio, 19th Spec. Ops. Squadron
     (New Member.)
4.  Gardner, Ron G., Rhode Island, 1876th Communications Squadron
     (Renewed his membership.)
5.  Martin, Floyd M., Washington, 6250th Combat Support Group, 377th Supply Squadron
     (Renewed his membership.)
6.  Rumberg, Morton M., California, 377th Combat Support Group, TACC
     (Renewed his membership.)
7.  Webb, Mary J., California, 7th Air Force Office of History, Clerical Work
     (Renewed her membership for five years.)

Plaque Fry

Name: Janice Jones	Apr 08, 2012
Email: Comments: Here we are again preparing to celebrate the most important day! Don't eat too many candy eggs or chocolate bunnies. Enjoy the weekend. Happy Easter to All!!! Love, Janice Jones

Name: Adrian L. Vaughn	Apr 04, 2012
Email: Comments: I am in search of anyone that served at MACV Headquarters from 1968 - 1970. Especially anyone that served in any of the areas/departments of CORDS. Also, I would like to be in contact with anyone that married a Vietnamese. Thanks for your help. Adrian Vaughn

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Apr 03, 2012
1. Smith, Franz D., North Carolina, 1876th Communications Squadron (New Member, signed up for five years.)

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Apr 03, 2012
1. Balistreri, Guy J., Wisconsin, 460th Field Maintenance Squadron, Propeller Shop (New Member.)

Name: Charles Penley (377th Security Police Squadron)	Apr 01, 2012
Email: Comments: Please go to the Photograph of the Month webpage at URL: http://www.tsna.org/photo/index.html There you will see the new photographs for April 2012. Charles Penley

Name: Larry Fry (Detachment 8, 2nd ADVON)	Apr 01, 2012
Email: Comments: The April issue of the TSNA newsletter, Revetments is now available on the Tan Son Nhut Association website. You can use this link to get to it: http://www.tsna.org/revetments/index.html Larry E. Fry Editor, Revetments

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Mar 29, 2012
1. Frazier, William A., Colorado, 377th Civil Engineer Squadron (New Member.) 2. Hewelt, Barry R., Michigan, 12th Reconnaissance Intelligence Technical Squadron (New Member and came on board for five years.) 3. Nieves, Louis A., New York, 377th Supply Squadron (Clothing Issue) (Renewed his membership)

Name: President Barack Obama

Mar 29, 2012

Email:

Comments: www.whitehouse.gov

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

March 29, 2012

Presidential Proclamation -- Vietnam Veterans Day

VIETNAM VETERANS DAY

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

On January 12, 1962, United States Army pilots lifted more than 1,000 South Vietnamese service members over jungle and underbrush to capture a National Liberation Front stronghold near Saigon. Operation Chopper marked America's first combat mission against the Viet Cong, and the beginning of one of our longest and most challenging wars. Through more than a decade of conflict that tested the fabric of our Nation, the service of our men and women in uniform stood true. Fifty years after that fateful mission, we honor the more than 3 million Americans who served, we pay tribute to those we have laid to rest, and we reaffirm our dedication to showing a generation of veterans the respect and support of a grateful Nation.

The Vietnam War is a story of service members of different backgrounds, colors, and creeds who came together to complete a daunting mission. It is a story of Americans from every corner of our Nation who left the warmth of family to serve the country they loved. It is a story of patriots who braved the line of fire, who cast themselves into harm's way to save a friend, who fought hour after hour, day after day to preserve the liberties we hold dear. From Ia Drang to Hue, they won every major battle of the war and upheld the highest traditions of our Armed Forces.

Eleven years of combat left their imprint on a generation. Thousands returned home bearing shrapnel and scars; still more were burdened by the invisible wounds of post-traumatic stress, of Agent Orange, of memories that would never fade. More than 58,000 laid down their lives in service to our Nation. Now and forever, their names are etched into two faces of black granite, a lasting memorial to those who bore conflict's greatest cost.

Our veterans answered our country's call and served with honor, and on March 29, 1973, the last of our troops left Vietnam. Yet, in one of the war's most profound tragedies, many of these men and women came home to be shunned or neglected -- to face treatment unbefitting their courage and a welcome unworthy of their example. We must never let this happen again. Today, we reaffirm one of our most fundamental obligations: to show all who have worn the uniform of the United States the respect and dignity they deserve, and to honor their sacrifice by serving them as well as they served us. Half a century after those helicopters swept off the ground and into the annals of history, we pay tribute to the fallen, the missing, the wounded, the millions who served, and the millions more who awaited their return. Our Nation stands stronger for their service, and on Vietnam Veterans Day, we honor their proud legacy with our deepest gratitude.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 29, 2012, as Vietnam Veterans Day. I call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that commemorate the 50 year anniversary of the Vietnam War.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.

BARACK OBAMA

FROM THE MEMORIAL BENCH COMMITTEE:	Mar 29, 2012
At URL: http://www.tsna.org/bench/photos.html You will be able to view the newest photographs of the Memorial Bench construction process.

Name: Barry Hewelt

Mar 23, 2012

Email:

Comments:  Many thanks for the great web site!  I was there for TET 1968, working with the 12th RITS, in the Intell building just west of 7th AF HQ.

Our hooch was just to the north of the army heliport and directly east of Camp Alpha.  My job was to locate targets on aerial photography along lines of communication such as roads and waterways and I created target boxes for "Arc Light" strikes.

Still can't help being curious and interested whenever I hear a chopper approaching, after living with them coming in right over my hooch during my "tour."

All of you who were there will forever be my brothers and sisters and I'm thankful to be writing to you today.

Bless us all.

Barry Hewelt

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Mar 19, 2012
1. Geisler, Edmond H., California, 460th Field Maintenance Squadron, Engine Shop (Renewed his membership and donation to the General Fund.) 2. McCarthy, James B., Florida, 8th Aerial Port Squadron, Cargo, Material Recovery (New Member.) 3. Pontarelli, Alvin J., Rhode Island, 377th Civil Engineer Squadron, Carpenter Shop (New Member and came on board for five years.)

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Mar 16, 2012
1. Knight, David L., Montana, 460th Avionics Maintenance Squadron (Renewed his membership for another year.) 2. Law, Bobby W., Oklahoma, 460th AMS (ECM Shop) (Renewed his membership to "Life Member," donation to the Memorial Bench Fund.)

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Mar 12, 2012
1. Bessette, Carol S., (Made another donation to the Memorial Bench Fund.) 2. Brooks, Frederick, Pennsylvania, 1964th Communications Group, Administration (Renewed his membership, a donation to the Memorial Bench Fund and the General Fund.) 3. Martin, Floyd M., (Made another donation to the Memorial Bench Fund.)

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Mar 12, 2012
1. Mitchell, Michael R., California, 12th Reconnaissance Intelligence Technical Squadron (Renewed his membership) 2. Oszman, Michael J., Texas, U. S. Army (Renewed his membership) 3. Robertson, M. A. (Robbie), Virginia, 1964th Communications Squadron (Renewed his membership and made another donation to the Memorial Bench Fund.")

Name: Ron Ikeda

Mar 08, 2012

Email:

Comments:  I am trying to locate information on flights in and out of Tan Son Nhut Air Base Vietnam, in 1969.

I was an Air Force Staff Sergeant and my name was on a flight manifest which I was told would be released to the Library of Congress after 40 years.

Much of the mission was classified and all information was shredded.  Could you please let me know if this information can be found?

I heard on the news that the Pentagon released some Vietnam era information last year and wondered if this may be a part of what I am looking for.

Thank you,

Ron Ikeda

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Mar 08, 2012
1. Baird, Patrick, Wyoming, 460th Field Maintenance (Renewed his membership, donation to the "Memorial Bench Fund and the General Fund") 2. Passi, Henry R., Maryland, 7th Air Force Flt Ops, Scatback, T-39 Instructor (Renewed his membership, donation to the "Memorial Bench and the General Fund") 3. Reveaux, Mark, Connecticut, 377th Supply Squadron (Renewed his membership")

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Mar 06, 2012
1. Hall, Richard A., Connecticut, 1st Sig Bde, 69th Sig BN, 39D2T Fixed Station Tech Control (Renewed his membership") 2. Hoffmann, Bruce, Tennessee, 377th Security Police Squadron (Renewed his membership for five years.") 3. Kraemer, John R., Minnesota, 460th Avionics Maintenance Squadron (Renewed his membership")

Name: Carol Bessette (Headquarters, 7th Air Force)

Mar 05, 2012

Email:

Comments:  If you have some extra time, you might want to wander around in the ANC website -- the new one. (It was not .mil before -- that is new since the Army took actions, starting in 2010, to "straighten things out.)

You might just want to see the photo montage that is on the Home Page. But, they are trying more and more to make it useful and of interest to people who are not attending funerals. Their long-range goal is for the grandson in Idaho, who may never get to DC, to be able to look up Grandpa and to see his grave. Not yet possible, but all sorts of changes are afoot. Much of this is tied to the technology changes that I heard briefed at a recent VVA chapter meeting--I wrote about that a few months ago. GPS will rule!

They have a new motto, as shown on the Home Page: Honor, Remember, Explore. That last part is to share the almost 150 years of national history that is represented through and in the Cemetery. You can click on the History button, and learn more, both the history (how it came to be a cemetery) and of some of the distinguished (not necessarily household names) buried there.

Please go to URL:   http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Default.aspx

Carol Bessette

Plaque Bessette

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Mar 05, 2012
1. Cutler, Morris, Nevada, 309th ACS (C-123 Flight Engineer) (Renewed his membership for five years") 2. Fairbank, Ronald D., New York, 33rd CAMRON, 2nd Air Division (Renewed his membership and "Donated to the Memorial Bench Fund") 3. Jarboe, Robert D., Maryland, 6220th USAF Disp. and 33d USAF Disp. (Renewed his membership and "Donated to the General Fund")

Name: Gary R. Fields (377th Civil Engineer Squadron)	Mar 02, 2012
Email: Comments: I have made reservation for the Tan Son Nhut Association, Reunion, Oct 2012, at the Holiday Inn - Fairborn, Ohio. Join Us! Gary Fields

Name: Walt D'Ambrosio (460th Avionics Maintenance Squadron)	Mar 02, 2012
Email: Comments: Thought TSNA Members might want to see this: Please go to the following link: USO Invisible Wounds Welcome home brothers, Walt D'Ambrosio

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:

Mar 02, 2012

1.  Borland, Dale R., North Carolina, 377th Security Police Squadron
     (Renewed his membership and a "Donation to the Bench Memorial Fund")
2.  Bowen, John G., Florida, 377th Munitions Maintenance Squadron
     (Renewed his membership)
3.  Stinson, Timothy M., Massachusetts, 377th Combat Support Group, 7th Air Force, Editor
     (Renewed his membership and a "Donation to the Bench Memorial Fund")

Plaque Fry

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Feb 29, 2012
1. Boydston, Ronald L., Washington, 525th Combat Evaluation Group, Military Intelligence (Renewed his membership) 2. Griffin, John C., Washington, 460th TRW, 12th TRS (RF-4C Weapon System Officer) (Renewed his membership) 3. Lewis, Keith B., South Carolina, 460th Avionics Maintenance Squadron (Renewed his membership)

Name: Larry Fry (Detachment 8, 2nd ADVON)

Feb 28, 2012

Email:

Comments:   The March issue of the TSNA newsletter, Revetments is now available on the Tan Son Nhut Association website.

You can use this link to get to it:   http://www.tsna.org/revetments/index.html

It is 3.5 mb in size, so it might take a little time to download, because of the number of pages, and the number of photographs.

This link will bring up Revetments directly, without going through the index on the website.

This message is going out to 437 members of TSNA who have email addresses. In addition, I �snail mail� 49 copies to members who do not have email access.

Larry E. Fry
Editor, Revetments

Plaque Fry

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Feb 26, 2012
1. Dawe, James H., HQ, 7th Air Force, NCOIC, Requirements Division (New Member) 2. Flanagan, Robert J., West Virginia, 3rd RRU/Air Section and 224th Aviation BN (New Member)

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Feb 26, 2012
1. Miller, James L., Kentucky, 377th Security Police Squadron (Renewed his membership, donated to Memorial Bench Fund and General Fund) 2. Pirri, Norbert A., Colorado, 377th CES, Production Control Section (Renewed his membership to "Life Member", donated to the General Fund)

Name: Janice Jones

Feb 20, 2012

Email:

Comments:  It is 50 years ago today that a military brother went to space and injected us into the Space Age.  He was up flying for five hours and three orbits of our world.  He went up and flew and returned.

John Glenn - Spaceman.  Welcome Home!

Thank You!  You did good!

You were the First to orbit and come home and tell us about our world and the Heavens.

Thank You.

Janice Jones

P.S. I watched every minute of your flight and still remember.

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Feb 19, 2012
1. Dunn, James L., Texas, 460th Field Maintenance Squadron (Crash Recovery) (Renewed his membership to "Life Member") 2. Hodges, Charles E. Jr., Tennessee, 8th Aerial Port Squadron (Renewed his membership) 3. Reese, David B., Arizona, 1876th Communications Squadron (Renewed his membership)

Name: Walt D'Ambrosio (460th Avionics Maintenance Squadron)	Feb 17, 2012
Email: Comments: I found a series on You tube that shows areas around Tan Son Nhut - how they look today interspersed with how they looked in 1970. The title is Deja Vu Vietnam with about 16 segments showing different areas of the base, downtown Saigon, etc. Please go to the following link: Deja Vu Vietnam Hope our members find them interesting. I did. Welcome home brothers,

Name: Robert Flanagan (Army Security Agency)

Feb 16, 2012

Email:

Comments:  Hello.  I'm new to this website.  My name is Robert Flanagan, retired Army CWO, Army Security Agency.  I served at Tan Son Nhut from March 1964 to March 1965 in the 3rd Radio Research Unit, both at White Birch and in the Air Section as NCOIC.  I served again at TSN from September 1968 through December 1968 in S-3, 224th Aviation Bn. (RR), before transferring up-country.  I plan to attend this year's reunion.

I'm a writer and have written "The ASA Trilogy," a threesome of novels about ASA in the Cold War and largely in Viet Nam.  Much of the action, in all three books, is set in/around TSN and Saigon.  Also Eritrea, 3 sites in Germany, Korea (in that war), etc.  Lots of settings/characters.  Many people and places you'll recognize.

Look me up at the reunion; I'll have books with me for sale.  Or, if interested now, go to my website:   http://www.connemarapress.org

for descriptions/purchase/info.

See you in Dayton./Bob Flanagan

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:

Feb 16, 2012

1.  Agan, Andy Jr., Nevada, 1876th Communications Squadron
     (Renewed his membership, donation to the Memorial Bench and the General Fund)
2.  McCoy, Peter F., Massachusetts, ASA / 3rd RRU
     (Renewed his membership, donation to the General Fund)
3.  Moore, Terry G., Louisiana, 460th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing
     (Renewed his membership, donation to the General Fund)
4.  Sirrine, Michael W., Oregon, US Army, 507th Transportation Group
     (Renewed his membership)
5.  Spylios, Michael J., New Hampshire, 377th Security Police Squadron
     (Renewed his membership)
6.  Wiltsey, Carl R., Texas, 1876th Communications Squadron
     (Renewed his membership)

Plaque Fry

Name: Charles Penley (377th Security Police Squadron)	Feb 13, 2012
Email: Comments: Tan Son Nhut Association TV has put up another short video for your viewing pleasure. The URL is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tO9AcwbNz9k It has been 44 years since the TET Offensive January 31 - February 18, 1968. You will see the front page of the February 1, 1968 issue of Pacific Stars and Stripes, and hear a safety message from AFVN Saigon Radio. Charles Penley

Name: Kenneth E. Shallenberger

Feb 13, 2012

Email:

Comments: Was assigned to the 1964 Comm Gp from December 1971 to September 1972. As the Group Training Administrator. Thanks to those guys I managed to come out of Vietnam as a E-7 and retired in May 1979.

Spent three tours (2 of them TDY) and one of them at 1882 Comm Sq Phang Rang, 1883 Comm Sq, Phu Kat and 1876 Comm Sq and 1964 Comm Gp at Tan Son Hnut. Was in Vietnam TDY during 1964-1965 and again in May 1967-1968 from Hickham AFB, Hi. Managed the Call Home Center during down time.

Name: Bob Laymon (377th CAMS, Scatback T-39, Crew Chief)	Feb 10, 2012
Email: Comments: There is a 7 minute and 41 second video at URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=103kHGjdy9w The title is:A typical day at the Tan Son Nhut Airport in Saigon (1968)

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:

Feb 10, 2012

1.  Box, Charles E., Mississippi, 22nd Air Base Group Base Operations � Dispatcher
     (Renewed his membership)
2.  Johnson, Charles V., Oregon, 377th Supply (Munitions Bomb Dump)
     (Renewed his membership for five years)
3.  Maranville, James l., Iowa, 360th Tactical Electronic Warfare
     (Renewed his membership)
4.  Markson, James, New York, 377th Security Police Squadron
     (Renewed his membership, With a donation to the General Fund)

Plaque Fry

Name: Robert Sessoms	Feb 10, 2012
Email: Comments: I was in Vietnam between October 1967 - October 1968 and worked at the Transit Alert next to 7th AF Bldg, close to the flight line. I need to know the unit it was under 7th Air Force or who? Thanks, Robert Sessoms

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:

Feb 07, 2012

1.  Carlson, William C., Oregon, 377th Supply Sq
     (Renewed his membership for five years)
2.  Jansky, Russell, Washington, 377th Combat Support Group, Aerial Fuel Bladder Delivery
     (Renewed his membership for five years. Donation to the General Fund)
3.  Lynch, Edgar, Illinois, 232nd Signal Company, 39th Signal Battalion, MACV
     (Renewed his membership)
4.  Penn, Hugh D., Jr., Georgia, 633rd Combat Support Group, CBPO
     (Renewed his membership. Donation to the General Fund and the Memorial Bench Fund)
5.  Powell, Lee R., Ohio, Air Force Advisory Group Headquarters
     (Renewed his membership for five years. Donation to the Memorial Bench Fund)
6.  Wayman, Ronald A., Arizona, 460th Field Maintenance Squadron ( Hydraulic Shop )
     (Renewed his membership. Donation to the Memorial Bench Fund)

Plaque Fry

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Feb 05, 2012
1. Martin, Johnny A., North Carolina, 377th Security Police Squadron (Renewed his membership)

Name: Tim Nousi

Feb 03, 2012

Email:

Comments: I was stationed at TSN in 1971. My hooch was just across the street from the SPS Armory and down the street from an old French fort.

Every night when I came home from the O-Club (sometimes a tad loaded) there would be an SPS airman on guard at the the gate to my hooch compound. I would usually stop and talk with them for a while before I hit the rack. They were all good guys and I became friends with several of them. I'm sure it was against regs but a couple times they let me ride with them in a M-151 jeep on a patrol of the TSN perimeter.

One time I went along with an airman on a hunt for stray dogs that were causing problems on the base. It reminded me of coyote hunting back home in Wyoming...we came back with three (I think) dead dogs across the hood and, as I remember, the airman was rewarded with a 3-day pass. When I was at the out-country terminal waiting to board my freedom bird one of them came over to tell me good-by and wish me a safe trip....I have never forgotten this and it's the high point of my RVN tour.

I was assigned to the 1964th Comm Group and made a lot of friends there but some of my warmest memories are of the 377th SPS guys that I met at the gate to my hooch compound. I'm hoping that some them read your website and remember talking (and putting up) with me.

Tim Nousi
Former Captain, USAF

Name: Bill Boltinghouse	Feb 01, 2012
Email: Comments: I spent 3 weeks TDY at TSN in 1970 with the USAF SS 6994th working on the EC‑47 Electronic Goonies! http://boltinghouse_tod_vn.tripod.com/ This is my web site regarding the EC‑47 while I was stationed at Pleiku AB 1969-1970!

Name: Charles Penley (377th Security Police Squadron)	Feb 01, 2012
Email: Comments: Please go to the Photograph of the Month webpage at URL: http://www.tsna.org/photo/index.html There you will see the new photographs for February 2012. Charles Penley

Name: George Plunkett (1st Mobile Communications Group)	Feb 01, 2012
Email: Comments: Please go to the TSNA Reunion webpage at URL: http://www.tsna.org/reunion/index.html There you will find the 2012 Registration Form, as well as the 2012 Schedule of Events. Please make your reservations early. Print out the registration form and send it in at your earliest convenience. George Plunkett TSNA President

Name: Larry Fry (Detachment 8, 2nd ADVON)	Feb 01, 2012
Email: Comments: The February 2012 Edition of Revetments is now available on the TSNA website. Use this link to access the website: http://www.tsna.org/revetments/index.html The above link will take you to the "Revetments" main index listing. Click on the �2012� button and the February 2012 issue will be the next thing you see. Larry E. Fry Editor, Revetments

Name: Charles Penley (377th Security Police Squadron)

Jan 31, 2012

Email:

Comments: Today is the 44th Anniversary of the "TET Offensive, Jan 31, 1968."

To the thousands of Tan Son Nhut veterans, who were there, experienced a "Life Changing" situation.

"Welcome Home !!!" Thank each and every one of you.

I remember the security policemen who gave their lives that night, "Rest In Peace":

Tan Son Nhut Air Base, 377th Combat Security Police Squadron, 0320 hours:

* Cyr, William Joseph, Sgt, 377th Combat Security Police Squadron, 0-51 Bunker
* Fischer, Louis Harold, Sgt, 377th Combat Security Police Squadron, 0-51 Bunker
* Hebron, Charles Edward, Sgt, 377th Combat Security Police Squadron, 0-51 Bunker
* Mills, Roger Bertha, Sgt, 377th Combat Security Police Squadron, 0-51 Bunker

Bien Hoa Air Base, 3rd Combat Security Police Squadron, 0300 hours:

* Maisey, Reginald Victor, Capt, 3rd Combat Security Police Squadron, Bunker Hill-10
* Muse, Edward Grady, A1C, 3rd Combat Security Police Squadron; sentry dog handler

I also remember the other veterans who were KIA and WIA.

Charles Penley

Plaque Penley

Name: Bob Laymonan (377th CAMS, Scatback T-39, Crew Chief)

Jan 31, 2012

Email:

Comments: Up to date news at URL:
http://m.military.com/news/article/us-appeals-court-upholds-stolen-valor-act.html?ESRC=eb.nl

US Appeals Court Upholds Stolen Valor Act

January 28, 2012 Associated Press, Ivan Moreno, DENVER -- A federal appeals court ruled Friday that a U.S. law making it illegal to lie about being a war hero is constitutional and making false statements is not always protected free speech.

The ruling by a three-judge panel of the Denver-based 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reverses a district judge's decision that the Stolen Valor Act violates the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects freedom of speech but is not absolute.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco struck down the law on the basis of free speech. The U.S. Supreme Court said in October it would take up the issue of whether the Stolen Valor Act is constitutional.

The Colorado case involves Rick Strandlof, who was arrested after claiming he was wounded in Iraq as a Marine and had received military medals. His lawyers have acknowledged the claims were false.

"As the Supreme Court has observed time and again, false statements of fact do not enjoy constitutional protection, except to the extent necessary to protect more valuable speech," Judges Timothy M. Tymkovich and Bobby R. Baldock said in the ruling. "Under this principle, the Stolen Valor Act does not impinge on or chill protected speech, and therefore does not offend the First Amendment."

Judge Jerome A. Holmes dissented, saying, "I am troubled by the majority's conclusion that false statements of fact -- even those that are knowingly made, with an intent to deceive -- are categorically outside the protective walls of the First Amendment."

Congress passed the Stolen Valor Act in 2006 with overwhelming support. It has been used only a few dozen times.

Strandlof founded a veterans group in Colorado Springs and said he had received the Purple Heart and Silver Star. His claims were questioned, and the military said it had no record that he ever served. He was charged in 2009 with violating the law, but a federal judge dismissed the case, saying the U.S. government had not shown any compelling reason to restrict that particular type of speech.

Strandlof's attorney, John T. Carlson, said Friday that he had expected the 10th Circuit to hold off on its decision until the U.S. Supreme Court weighed in. He said he planned to either appeal to the full 10th Circuit or petition the U.S. Supreme Court, but he noted that the case already in front of the high court will decide matters.

"We're going to have, in a couple of months, the definitive decision," Carlson said.

The California case that the Supreme Court decided to review centers on the government's prosecution of Xavier Alvarez. Alvarez, a member of the local water district board, said at a public meeting in 2007 that he was a retired Marine who received the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration. He had never served in the military.

Name: Jan Obryan (US Army, 249th Field Artillery Detachment)	Jan 29, 2012
Email: Comments: It is tomorrow in Vietnam. On this date began the 1968 Tet Offensive. Those who died and those who served should never be forgotten. Thank you and God bless America. Jan Obryan

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:

Jan 28, 2012

1.  Byrnes, Dennis, Pennsylvania, 69th Sig BN, USA
     (Renewed his membership)
2.  Lyons, David L,. Ohio, 255th Signal Det., 56th Trans. Co., 765th Trans. BN., US Army
     (Renewed his membership)
3.  Marcello, Ralph A., California, 377th Combat Support Group, Accountant and Musician
     (Renewed his membership)
4.  Ransom, Carl J., North Carolina, OL1508 USAF Pacific Postal and Courier Region
     Det 19, 9th Air Postal Squadron, A.M.T. Postal Inspector (Renewed his membership)
5.  Singleton, Donnie J., Alabama, Det 1500 Air Force Postal and Courier Squadron
     (New Member)

Plaque Fry

Name: Jim Wade

Jan 27, 2012

Email:

Comments:  Hello Everyone, well I have been thinking about this visit for a couple of years now ... I posted about it, at that time but we did not make it than ... well it has come back around again.

Steve Carlson, Neil Brown and myself are planning a trip to Saigon, in the near future.

As for the future we are looking at Feb 2013 or March 2-13.  Making sure we don�t go over there during the TET time frame, we want to stay away from that.

At the present we are planning on a 10 day trip.

I am taking my wife and daughter with me.  You see, I put in over two tours over there, 1965 - 1966, Pleiku,  In 1968 I was TDY from Naha Air Base, Okinawa and then back again for my second tour in 1969 - 1970.

While at Pleiku, I was with the 15th Aerial Port Squadron, Det 1 and was out on mobilities while with them.  During my second tour I was assigned to the mobility section of the 8th Aerial Port Squadron, Tan Son Nhut.

Our section was located at the end of the runway. down by the motor pool.

While visiting Tan Son Nhut, I am planning on a little trip to Pleiku to see that, then on down to Bin Thuy.

We lost a team member there in Dec 1969.  My whole team was also wounded there in Dec.

I am taking my camera with us, so when I get back I will send them to the Tan Son Nhut Association.

Thanks,

Jim Wade
Ret, MSgt, USAF

Name: Johnnie Jernigan (460th AEMS, Navigation Shop)	Jan 25, 2012
Email: Comments: We have placed several items on the TSNA BX webpage at URL: http://www.tsna.org/tsnapxbx/ Please scroll down and take a look at the new items T-39 through T-42, as well as all the other items we have in stock.

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Jan 17, 2012
1. Carnes, Rex A., Colorado, 6440th Air Base Squadron, Base Sergeant Major (Renewed his membership with donations to both the General Fund and the Memorial/Endowment Fund)

/div>

Name: Brett Reilly

Jan 14, 2012

Email:

Comments: Hello, I am not sure if this type of message is allowed on your organization's message board, but I am trying to locate people who served in or have a knowledge of the Capital Military District Advisory Team (Advisory Team 100).

Though this is different from the Tan Son Nhut Association, given the close proximity I thought people here may have have some leads on how to contact these particular veterans.

I am a history graduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, hoping to write a unit history of this group with a focus on advising, from roughly 1967-1970.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

I can be reached at the above email address.

Thank you,

Brett Reilly

Brett Reilly
History Department
University of Wisconsin Madison
(716)713-1057

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:

Jan 14, 2012

1.  Brown, Edward, Georgia, 377th Combat Support Group (Main BX)
     (Renewed his membership with a donation to the General Fund)

2.  Burns, John, Massachusetts, 460th Field Maintenance Squadron, 45th TAC Recon Sq.,
     Jet Engine Mechanic RF-101  (Renewed his membership with a donation to the
     Memorial/Endowment Fund)

3.  Duncan, Angela, Virginia, Daughter of Robbie Robertson  (Renewed her membership)

4.  Ramey, David, Ohio, 377th Security Police Squadron     (Renewed his membership with
     a donation to the General Fund)

5.  Shea, Michael, Pennsylvania, 1876th Communications Squadron     (Renewed his
     membership)

Plaque Fry

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Jan 10, 2012
1. Clark, Harry B., Pennsylvania, HHD 39th Signal Battalion, U.S. Army, Construction Draftsman (Renewed his membership) 2. Medeiros, Robert B., Massachusetts, 310th Tactical Airlift Wing (TAS) (Renewed his membership) 3. Ottney, Edward L., Iowa, 98th Transportation Det, 120 Aviation Company, MACV (Renewed his membership for five years)

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Jan 10, 2012
1. Rodriquez, Raul C., Texas, 377th Transportation Squadron (Renewed his membership and made a donation to the Memorial Bench)

Name: Carol Bessette (Headquarters, 7th Air Force)	Jan 07, 2012
Email: Comments: The government apps and mobile sites allow you to access official information on various topics from the palm of your hand. Learn more about apps. Please go to URL: http://apps.usa.gov/?v=all Carol Bessette

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:

Jan 07, 2012

1.  Economou, George, California, 7th Air Force Intelligence  (Renewed his membership)

2.  Economou, Nicholas M., North Carolina, Det 1, 45th Tactical Reconnaissance
     Squadron  (Renewed his membership)

3.  Warrington, James M., Chaplain, Virginia, Chaplain, 377th Combat Support Group
     (Renewed his membership)

4.  Wurtzinger, George J., Illinosis, 509th RRCUV, Army Security Agency  (Renewed his
     membership)

Plaque Fry

Name: Van Dufrene (Director of Operations, 37th Training Group)

Jan 06, 2012

Email:

Comments: Gentlemen,
I've also had some non-golfers ask about participating in the BBQ meal only.
If you wish to do the meal only the cost will be $10.
If you bring a guest, $10.00.

Contact Lt Elliott or me at least one week prior to the event so we can provide the caterer with an accurate head count.

Look forward to seeing all of you!

I can also be contacted at the following:

CELL: 210-710-3728

Van

VAN DUFRENE, GS-13, DAF
Director of Operations
37th Training Support Sq
Lackland AFB, Texas 78236
Office:210-671-7974
Cell: 210-259-3623

Name: Col Gregory J. Reese (Commander, 37th Training Group)

Jan 06, 2012

Email:

Comments: All of you should have received invitations to the 37th Training Wing's upcoming Commemoration of the 44th Anniversary of the Tet Offensive at Lackland. Our intent was to invite all members of your organizations. I wanted to offer some additional details to the events and the ceremony in case your organization's membership ask you.

There are actually two days of events:

On Monday, 30 January, at 1230, we are hosting a Golf Tournament and Dinner at the Lackland Golf Course. Teams are currently being taken by the event POCs, Lt Cody Elliott at 210-671-4303 or and Mr. Van Dufrene at 210-671-7974 or .

On Tuesday, 31 January, at 0900, we are hosting a tour of the current training facilities for the Security Forces Academy and DoD Military Working Dog Center. This approximately 3 hour tour will end up at a lunch at the Gateway Club. RSVPs are needed for a good head count for this event, please contact the event POC, TSgt Benjamin Jones at 210-671-8046 or to reserve a seat.

The main event is the Commemoration Ceremony in front of the Security Forces Museum at 1500. The event will include reflections on the battle by SMSgt(ret) Pete Piazza and Col(ret) Bernie Denisio as well as current SF Senior leadership tying our legacy of valor from Vietnam to the future of the 1,000 Security Forces trainees attending the event. The ceremony will also feature the traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall as well as a dedication of the newly renovated Vietnam display in the SF Museum.

No R.S.V.P. is needed to attend the ceremony of view the Vietnam Wall, but personnel without a valid DOD identification card must give the following information by 15 January 2012 to TSgt Richard Luna ( or by calling 210-671-6857) to ensure base access:

--Full name, Date of birth, Driver's license number and Driver's license state of issue

If you have any other questions from your members, please do not hesitate to contact me or my event POC, Capt John Hart at 210-671-9047 or .

The electronic link for the e-invitation is https://einvitations.afit.edu/TetCeremony/anim.cfm. I look forward to your organization's participation in this event. I would like to thank the Security Forces Foundation in advance for their support that made this heritage event possible for both our veterans and current students in the SF Academy and the MWD Center.

GREGORY J. REESE, Colonel, USAF
Commander, 37 Training Group
1220 Truemper Drive
Lackland AFB, TX 78236
210-671-4131
DSN: 473-4131

Name: George Plunkett (1st Mobile Communications Group)

Jan 05, 2012

Email:

Comments: Fellow Members: The hotel contract has been signed with the Holiday Inn in Fairborn, OH.

Their website is at URL: www.holidayinn.com/fairbornoh

Here are the details -
$110. room rate per night. This includes all fees and taxes.

FREE parking.
FREE WiFi through the hotel.
FREE hospitality suite.
FREE meeting room.
FREE auditorium style room for guest speakers.
FREE shuttle to and from the airport. It is the responsibility of the guest to notify the hotel at least 72 hours before arrival.
FREE transportation to and from the NMUSAF and the traveling wall.
FREE breakfast daily in the hotel restaurant.

Your credit/debit card will not be charged until your arrival.

A complete schedule of events will be announced by the end of January.

Happy New Year,

George Plunkett
TSNA President

Plaque Plunkett

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP:	Jan 03, 2012
1. Lettau, Ulrich H., Missouri, 823rd Civil Engineer Squadron, Red Horse, Engineer Officer, USAF Advisory Group (Renewed his membership)

Name: George Plunkett (1st Mobile Communications Group)

Jan 02, 2012

Email:

Comments: The toll free phone number mentioned for Holiday Inn reservations in Revetments is incorrect.

That is the reservations number for Holiday Inn Central.

Please call 937-426-7800 to make your reservation and mention the Association to receive the special rate.

The website is: holidayinn.com/fairbornoh

Our thanks to fellow member Joe Kricho for spotting this error.

George Plunkett

Plaque Plunkett

Name: Larry Fry (Detachment 8, 2nd ADVON)	Jan 01, 2012
Email: Comments: The January 2012 Edition of Revetments is now available on the TSNA website. Use this link to access the website: http://www.tsna.org/revetments/index.html The above link will take you to the "Revetments" main index listing. Click on the �2012� button and the January 2012 issue will be the next thing you see. Larry E. Fry Editor, Revetments

Name: Charles Penley (377th Security Police Squadron)	Jan 01, 2012
Email: Comments: The Tan Son Nhut Association, Photograph of the Month for January 2012 has just now been posted. Please go to URL: http://www.tsna.org/photo/index.html Hope that you enjoy them. Charles Penley

Name: Charles Penley (377th Security Police)	Jan 01, 2012
Email: Comments: Happy New Year to one and all !!! We have gotten together many times in 2011. Helped in sharing our memories and helped other veterans, with their search, for answers. We all hope that 2012 will be a better year than 2011. Stay warm and safe, Charles Penley

FROM THE WEB MASTER: Today is Jan 01, 2012. I hope that everyone had their wishes granted from the year 2011. However, I am personally wishing each and every one of you a better year in 2012. So what do you want to talk about this year? I would like to hear from all who come to this web page. How can this web page help you get better informed?