Letters
These letters were written by my uncle Terry, from bootcamp through his tour of duty in Vietnam. His mom, Marion “Mama Bear” Smith, saved his letters.
One of his letters appears in Voices from Vietnam, published by the University of Wisconsin.
“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.” ~ Jimi Hendrix
1969Dear Mom,
I am having a wonderful time at camp. Our counselors are doing their best to keep us entertained. We learned several new games such as "picking butts off the parade ground" and "scrub down the barracks." There's also another form of entertainment called "guess what's coming for dinner." We spent a long day at the induction center in Milwaukee (from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.). At eight we caught a plane to St. Louis, Missouri, and after a two-hour wait we caught another flight to Campbell. We went through a bunch of garbage for another couple of hours (Jerry will be pleased to hear that the first experience with the army included a big black staff sgt. who rode our ass unmercifully.) So far we've had haircuts (oh boy) but no fatigues yet. I will have to send my guitar back with my clothes as there is really no place to keep it. In the meantime, however, the sergeant has me play folk songs for him (he digs Simon & Garfunkel and Peter, Paul & Mary).
This first week is not counted as basic so it will really be nine weeks before I get home. Some of the guys want to go home pretty bad already. We've had three or four go AWOL.
Well, not much else for news and a lot of work to do so I'll close now.
Love,Terry
P.S. We got to bed the first night at 3:30 a.m. but no beds, so they put us in a storeroom full of cockroaches. We didn't have to fight the bugs for too long though as we get up around here at 4:30 a.m.
P.P.S. No address for at least a week.
I am having a wonderful time at camp. Our counselors are doing their best to keep us entertained. We learned several new games such as "picking butts off the parade ground" and "scrub down the barracks." There's also another form of entertainment called "guess what's coming for dinner." We spent a long day at the induction center in Milwaukee (from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.). At eight we caught a plane to St. Louis, Missouri, and after a two-hour wait we caught another flight to Campbell. We went through a bunch of garbage for another couple of hours (Jerry will be pleased to hear that the first experience with the army included a big black staff sgt. who rode our ass unmercifully.) So far we've had haircuts (oh boy) but no fatigues yet. I will have to send my guitar back with my clothes as there is really no place to keep it. In the meantime, however, the sergeant has me play folk songs for him (he digs Simon & Garfunkel and Peter, Paul & Mary).
This first week is not counted as basic so it will really be nine weeks before I get home. Some of the guys want to go home pretty bad already. We've had three or four go AWOL.
Well, not much else for news and a lot of work to do so I'll close now.
Love,Terry
P.S. We got to bed the first night at 3:30 a.m. but no beds, so they put us in a storeroom full of cockroaches. We didn't have to fight the bugs for too long though as we get up around here at 4:30 a.m.
P.P.S. No address for at least a week.
17 SEPT, 1969Dear Mom,
Only time for a short note (it seems that's all I ever have time for) but I thought even a short note was better than nothing at all.
Mostly I wrote to ask you to do something for me. Send my guitar muey pronto (as fast as you can). A couple of sergeants have offered to store it for me during inspections. Pack the case with papers or something so the guitar doesn't rattle around too much. You might also include my merchaum lined pipe and my pocket knife if you can find it.
Mortar training isn't particularly difficult, but it is boring. The worst part is they train us from dawn till dark (literally) six days a week. Tonight we had a foot and wall locker inspection and (wonder of wonders) the sergeant told me my stuff looked pretty sharp.
Did I tell you Dad's new Brittany was struck and killed by a car? It happened several weeks ago; about the same time "The General" died. I guess he's right when he says he's not meant to have a dog. It's sad though because he wants one so badly.
Have you talked with Ron lately? I've got to write him, as soon as I get a chance, to give him my new address. Do you ever see Jerry? If he doesn't tend bar anymore I guess I won't be able to write to him.
Well, I really don't have anything for news since I just talked to you Sunday.Love, Terry
Only time for a short note (it seems that's all I ever have time for) but I thought even a short note was better than nothing at all.
Mostly I wrote to ask you to do something for me. Send my guitar muey pronto (as fast as you can). A couple of sergeants have offered to store it for me during inspections. Pack the case with papers or something so the guitar doesn't rattle around too much. You might also include my merchaum lined pipe and my pocket knife if you can find it.
Mortar training isn't particularly difficult, but it is boring. The worst part is they train us from dawn till dark (literally) six days a week. Tonight we had a foot and wall locker inspection and (wonder of wonders) the sergeant told me my stuff looked pretty sharp.
Did I tell you Dad's new Brittany was struck and killed by a car? It happened several weeks ago; about the same time "The General" died. I guess he's right when he says he's not meant to have a dog. It's sad though because he wants one so badly.
Have you talked with Ron lately? I've got to write him, as soon as I get a chance, to give him my new address. Do you ever see Jerry? If he doesn't tend bar anymore I guess I won't be able to write to him.
Well, I really don't have anything for news since I just talked to you Sunday.Love, Terry
SAT. 8:30Dear Mom,
Sorry I haven't written sooner, but I honestly haven't had any spare time. In fact, the only reason our drill sgt. is allowing us time to write is to get the Chaplain off his back.
I'm also sorry I couldn't call you on your birthday, but we're not supposed to use phones for another two weeks.
I just got off six days of K.P. Believe me, it's no fun. They had us peeling spuds just like in the movies. Our actual eight weeks of basic doesn't start until Monday. I'm mentally exhausted already (one of the reasons for my disorganized writing).
Our company is the toughest in Ft. Campbell. Every cycle they break records and win all the awards. Needless to say, our DI is tough (you can tell Jerry he's white though).
I've come to the conclusion that everything in Ft. Campbell bites, stings, yells at you, is poisonous, or smells bad.
Today I signed up for airborne, but I didn't have to extend for another year.
It's lights out pretty quick, and I'd like to drop a similar note to Janean. Please send my small sewing kit (it's in my suitcase).
Love, Terry
P.S. Happy Birthday
Sorry I haven't written sooner, but I honestly haven't had any spare time. In fact, the only reason our drill sgt. is allowing us time to write is to get the Chaplain off his back.
I'm also sorry I couldn't call you on your birthday, but we're not supposed to use phones for another two weeks.
I just got off six days of K.P. Believe me, it's no fun. They had us peeling spuds just like in the movies. Our actual eight weeks of basic doesn't start until Monday. I'm mentally exhausted already (one of the reasons for my disorganized writing).
Our company is the toughest in Ft. Campbell. Every cycle they break records and win all the awards. Needless to say, our DI is tough (you can tell Jerry he's white though).
I've come to the conclusion that everything in Ft. Campbell bites, stings, yells at you, is poisonous, or smells bad.
Today I signed up for airborne, but I didn't have to extend for another year.
It's lights out pretty quick, and I'd like to drop a similar note to Janean. Please send my small sewing kit (it's in my suitcase).
Love, Terry
P.S. Happy Birthday
PVT David T. Smith389 46 4088RA 680 99040Co. B 9th Bn, 2nd Tng4th PlatoonUSATCFort Campbell, KY 42223
21 MON., 0830
Dear Mom,
I have some spare time as we've been given a holiday because of the moon walk. We saw a movie yesterday: John Wayne in "The Green Beret." How about that!
Don't send my magazines or any food as I am not allowed to have them. Please send me Jerry Ferguson's and Jerry Fieler's addresses. If I had the address for Fieler's Bar & Grill I could send letters to Jerry in care of the bar. As for Jerry Ferguson, He is the only means I have to get in touch with Ron.
So, the General has been losing a few battles. Well, he's got to learn sometime, I guess.
Mom, if ever there's an emergency such as a death, accident, illness, etc., don't try to contact me directly. Instead, call the Red Cross. They will be able to get in touch with me much faster than you could. In most cases I could be on my way home in a matter of hours.
Did my guitar arrive yet? It should have arrived a few days after the clothes. If it did arrive, open it to see if it's damaged (also to remove the dirty clothes I used as padding).
I had to sign up for Savings Bonds (you don't have to, but it is advised) and I made you co-owner. If I ever need money, just cash a bond and send me the cash. As far as my paycheck is concerned, you can put it in the bank if you like, but I think I have to sign it, don't I? If that's the case, just send it to me.
I guess I haven't told you that I was made a squad leader. I hope I can keep my stripes, but with my luck I'll be busted shortly.
Things have been tough, but I'm still hanging in there. Our company has the reputation of being the toughest in the battalion, so of course our drill sgts. make sure we live up to our reputation. I will try to write regularly, but sometimes time is tight. Don't restrict your letters to a one-for-one basis. I've learned that it's awfully nice hearing your name shouted at mail call. I haven't had time to write to Pat yet. If you talk to her before I can write, tell her I would appreciate some of those black "Petri" cigars.
How is everything in beautiful Wisconsin? Temperatures reach 105 degrees almost every day here, and we've still got the hottest part of the summer ahead of us.
How's the crew down at Fieler's? Say hello to Jerry and Buddy for me. I'll write to Jerry in care of the bar as soon as I get his address. How is Ray? How is anybody? I'm so starved for news I'd settle for a total stranger.
We're a pretty horny crew down here. Would you believe yesterday I caught a turtle trying to make love to my helmet? You wouldn't believe that, eh?
We'll, I don't have too much for news. Nothing happens here (we're still on medical restriction). I'll try to write some more letters before the sgt. comes back.
WETSU
(We Eat This Shit Up)
Love, Terry
21 MON., 0830
Dear Mom,
I have some spare time as we've been given a holiday because of the moon walk. We saw a movie yesterday: John Wayne in "The Green Beret." How about that!
Don't send my magazines or any food as I am not allowed to have them. Please send me Jerry Ferguson's and Jerry Fieler's addresses. If I had the address for Fieler's Bar & Grill I could send letters to Jerry in care of the bar. As for Jerry Ferguson, He is the only means I have to get in touch with Ron.
So, the General has been losing a few battles. Well, he's got to learn sometime, I guess.
Mom, if ever there's an emergency such as a death, accident, illness, etc., don't try to contact me directly. Instead, call the Red Cross. They will be able to get in touch with me much faster than you could. In most cases I could be on my way home in a matter of hours.
Did my guitar arrive yet? It should have arrived a few days after the clothes. If it did arrive, open it to see if it's damaged (also to remove the dirty clothes I used as padding).
I had to sign up for Savings Bonds (you don't have to, but it is advised) and I made you co-owner. If I ever need money, just cash a bond and send me the cash. As far as my paycheck is concerned, you can put it in the bank if you like, but I think I have to sign it, don't I? If that's the case, just send it to me.
I guess I haven't told you that I was made a squad leader. I hope I can keep my stripes, but with my luck I'll be busted shortly.
Things have been tough, but I'm still hanging in there. Our company has the reputation of being the toughest in the battalion, so of course our drill sgts. make sure we live up to our reputation. I will try to write regularly, but sometimes time is tight. Don't restrict your letters to a one-for-one basis. I've learned that it's awfully nice hearing your name shouted at mail call. I haven't had time to write to Pat yet. If you talk to her before I can write, tell her I would appreciate some of those black "Petri" cigars.
How is everything in beautiful Wisconsin? Temperatures reach 105 degrees almost every day here, and we've still got the hottest part of the summer ahead of us.
How's the crew down at Fieler's? Say hello to Jerry and Buddy for me. I'll write to Jerry in care of the bar as soon as I get his address. How is Ray? How is anybody? I'm so starved for news I'd settle for a total stranger.
We're a pretty horny crew down here. Would you believe yesterday I caught a turtle trying to make love to my helmet? You wouldn't believe that, eh?
We'll, I don't have too much for news. Nothing happens here (we're still on medical restriction). I'll try to write some more letters before the sgt. comes back.
WETSU
(We Eat This Shit Up)
Love, Terry
THURS., OCT, '69 (?)Dear Mom,
We didn't have post privileges last weekend so I wasn't able to call Sunday. We may not be able to leave the company area this Sunday either.
Well, bivouac is over with. We didn't have any problem with mosquitoes, but we did have a few other "nuisances." For instance, one of my sergeants was quite surprised to find a tarantula crawling up his leg. I killed a pygmy rattler that was taking altogether too much interest in my campsite. This, in addition to wild pigs and armadillos romping all over the place, made it an interesting week.
This week we're learning about explosives. Tuesday we learned how to blow large holes in the ground. Today we learned how to blow large holes in tanks. We've also been riding around assaulting hills in APCs (armored personnel carriers). Man, I've been in car wrecks that shook me up less!
Squad tactics wouldn't be so bad except for the NCOs who take great delight in throwing C-4 riot gas grenades (an improved version of tear gas).
One of the most realistic phases of training was our night defense class. We were assigned three men to each bunker and given blank ammunition. All through the night aggressors walked around our barbed wire perimeter firing occasional shots and making noise to draw our fire. Infiltrators crept through the wire and anyone not in a bunker was challenged. Several prisoners were taken. A loudspeaker opened up playing familiar songs. A voice told us we were being betrayed by our leaders and that this was not our war. they singled out a particular soldier, supposedly among the defenders, and a woman's voice claiming to be his wife urged him to come home. Suddenly, explosives that had been planted earlier blew up, simulating a mortar attack. Flares lit the sky signaling the beginning of the assault. In all, it was quite an experience.
Our good captain doesn't believe in giving passes. It seems last cycle was a particularly good one for him, and he attributes this to his no-pass policy. I've only had one pass in the six weeks I've been here (most units give passes after the first week). Captain Cunningham has scheduled classes for both Saturday and Sunday to be followed by weapons maintenance, so I don't know if I'll be able to call this weekend.
I haven't heard from Ron yet. I did get a letter from Debbie and Donna though. Donna wrote a poem for me.
Moral is pretty low here. They treat us like animals and we are beginning to respond in kind. I think the idea behind this treatment is to make us hate this place so badly that we'll willingly go to Vietnam.
We didn't have post privileges last weekend so I wasn't able to call Sunday. We may not be able to leave the company area this Sunday either.
Well, bivouac is over with. We didn't have any problem with mosquitoes, but we did have a few other "nuisances." For instance, one of my sergeants was quite surprised to find a tarantula crawling up his leg. I killed a pygmy rattler that was taking altogether too much interest in my campsite. This, in addition to wild pigs and armadillos romping all over the place, made it an interesting week.
This week we're learning about explosives. Tuesday we learned how to blow large holes in the ground. Today we learned how to blow large holes in tanks. We've also been riding around assaulting hills in APCs (armored personnel carriers). Man, I've been in car wrecks that shook me up less!
Squad tactics wouldn't be so bad except for the NCOs who take great delight in throwing C-4 riot gas grenades (an improved version of tear gas).
One of the most realistic phases of training was our night defense class. We were assigned three men to each bunker and given blank ammunition. All through the night aggressors walked around our barbed wire perimeter firing occasional shots and making noise to draw our fire. Infiltrators crept through the wire and anyone not in a bunker was challenged. Several prisoners were taken. A loudspeaker opened up playing familiar songs. A voice told us we were being betrayed by our leaders and that this was not our war. they singled out a particular soldier, supposedly among the defenders, and a woman's voice claiming to be his wife urged him to come home. Suddenly, explosives that had been planted earlier blew up, simulating a mortar attack. Flares lit the sky signaling the beginning of the assault. In all, it was quite an experience.
Our good captain doesn't believe in giving passes. It seems last cycle was a particularly good one for him, and he attributes this to his no-pass policy. I've only had one pass in the six weeks I've been here (most units give passes after the first week). Captain Cunningham has scheduled classes for both Saturday and Sunday to be followed by weapons maintenance, so I don't know if I'll be able to call this weekend.
I haven't heard from Ron yet. I did get a letter from Debbie and Donna though. Donna wrote a poem for me.
Moral is pretty low here. They treat us like animals and we are beginning to respond in kind. I think the idea behind this treatment is to make us hate this place so badly that we'll willingly go to Vietnam.
1969Mom,
I'm afraid I don't have much time to write (things are really hectic) but I wanted you to have my address as soon as possible. PVT. David T. Smith, RA 389-46-4088, Co. E 3rd BN AIT Bde., 3rd Platoon, Ft. Polk, LA 71459. I shot expert with the M-16, and I was promoted to E-2 (one stripe). More later.
Love, Terry
P.S. I'm nearly broke. Please send $50.00 (I know it sounds like a bad joke, but I've only got $12.00 until Sept. 30).
Love, Terry
I'm afraid I don't have much time to write (things are really hectic) but I wanted you to have my address as soon as possible. PVT. David T. Smith, RA 389-46-4088, Co. E 3rd BN AIT Bde., 3rd Platoon, Ft. Polk, LA 71459. I shot expert with the M-16, and I was promoted to E-2 (one stripe). More later.
Love, Terry
P.S. I'm nearly broke. Please send $50.00 (I know it sounds like a bad joke, but I've only got $12.00 until Sept. 30).
Love, Terry
1 NOV., 1969, 2300 hrs.Dear Mom,
I'm afraid this will be just a short note as I'm pressed for time. I'm enclosing the card you've been asking me for.
Peson [WORD UNCLEAR] wasn't too bad. The hardest part was the digging of the mortar pit and the adjoining sleeping quarters. Our bunker was so well camouflaged that on two occasions people fell through our roof. Once the digging was over, we simply manned the guns while the Bravos went out on patrols. Unfortunately, the last day it rained and rained and rained. Oh well, that about raps it up as far as training is concerned. Now all we have left is Escape and Evasion and a survival class. That will be Tuesday night. For Escape and Evasion, they turn us loose at night in groups of two or three, and then chase us down. If a trainee has the misfortune to be captured, he faces a rough time at the hands of his captors.
These men are recently back from a tour in 'Nam and have little sympathy for anyone who allows himself to be taken. I'm not too worried because I definitely don't intend to be captured.
My orders still aren't confirmed. Sorry about that. I guess you really shouldn't plan on me.
I really have to go now (I've been a runner for the last two hours and my relief is due.)
Love,Terry
I'm afraid this will be just a short note as I'm pressed for time. I'm enclosing the card you've been asking me for.
Peson [WORD UNCLEAR] wasn't too bad. The hardest part was the digging of the mortar pit and the adjoining sleeping quarters. Our bunker was so well camouflaged that on two occasions people fell through our roof. Once the digging was over, we simply manned the guns while the Bravos went out on patrols. Unfortunately, the last day it rained and rained and rained. Oh well, that about raps it up as far as training is concerned. Now all we have left is Escape and Evasion and a survival class. That will be Tuesday night. For Escape and Evasion, they turn us loose at night in groups of two or three, and then chase us down. If a trainee has the misfortune to be captured, he faces a rough time at the hands of his captors.
These men are recently back from a tour in 'Nam and have little sympathy for anyone who allows himself to be taken. I'm not too worried because I definitely don't intend to be captured.
My orders still aren't confirmed. Sorry about that. I guess you really shouldn't plan on me.
I really have to go now (I've been a runner for the last two hours and my relief is due.)
Love,Terry
4 DEC., 1969, TUES. 1500 hrs.Dear Mom,
So I said to myself, "Self, cheer up, things could be worse." And sure as Hell, things got worse.
Nobody has any idea where my records might be. The usual procedure would be to send the records to reception station in Ft. Campbell, and from there to every unit I have been assigned to until they eventually catch up to me.
In the meantime, I can't be admitted to NCOC since I don't have any security clearance. As a matter of fact, that's exactly what happened to Terry Herron (the fellow who's shirts you ironed). He left his records in a cab. They have already sent Terry to a casual company where he is awaiting orders for 'Nam.
More important than this course, I can't get paid without my pay records. (Everyone else got paid today. As a matter of fact, that's how I learned that my records hadn't arrived, and the possible consequences.)
From this springs still another problem. I can hardly afford to come home for the holidays on 30 cents. This, of course, is assuming I will receive a pass. Without my records no one is authorized to give me leave time.
As Buddy would say, "The whole situation is FUBAR."
Well, now for the cheerier side of things. Two of our female civilian KPs got into a hassle this morning, and one did the other a job with a butcher knife. Guess who they got for a replacement while the MPs took one away and the ambulance took the other? You guessed it -- "the kid."
My only wish now is that they hurry up and send me wherever they are going to send me. Waiting for a class date three weeks is bad enough; but to do that waiting for nothing would be unbearable. This, in addition to my fouled up leave and pay.
I saw John Brown yesterday. He is in the company I was supposed to be assigned to (he graduates the sixteenth). He gave me this big pep talk about what a good deal this NCOC program is. Big deal.
Well, I guess that's about all I have of interest. I'll call Sunday.
Love,Terry
(Things could be worse?)
So I said to myself, "Self, cheer up, things could be worse." And sure as Hell, things got worse.
Nobody has any idea where my records might be. The usual procedure would be to send the records to reception station in Ft. Campbell, and from there to every unit I have been assigned to until they eventually catch up to me.
In the meantime, I can't be admitted to NCOC since I don't have any security clearance. As a matter of fact, that's exactly what happened to Terry Herron (the fellow who's shirts you ironed). He left his records in a cab. They have already sent Terry to a casual company where he is awaiting orders for 'Nam.
More important than this course, I can't get paid without my pay records. (Everyone else got paid today. As a matter of fact, that's how I learned that my records hadn't arrived, and the possible consequences.)
From this springs still another problem. I can hardly afford to come home for the holidays on 30 cents. This, of course, is assuming I will receive a pass. Without my records no one is authorized to give me leave time.
As Buddy would say, "The whole situation is FUBAR."
Well, now for the cheerier side of things. Two of our female civilian KPs got into a hassle this morning, and one did the other a job with a butcher knife. Guess who they got for a replacement while the MPs took one away and the ambulance took the other? You guessed it -- "the kid."
My only wish now is that they hurry up and send me wherever they are going to send me. Waiting for a class date three weeks is bad enough; but to do that waiting for nothing would be unbearable. This, in addition to my fouled up leave and pay.
I saw John Brown yesterday. He is in the company I was supposed to be assigned to (he graduates the sixteenth). He gave me this big pep talk about what a good deal this NCOC program is. Big deal.
Well, I guess that's about all I have of interest. I'll call Sunday.
Love,Terry
(Things could be worse?)
9 FEB, 1970Dear Mom,
I just talked to you so I really don't have anything for news. I'll enclose the check from Pat as well as the money I was planning to send. I haven't been anywhere to get a money order so I'll send cash. I know it's a stupid thing to do, but if I keep it for much longer there won't be anything to send.
Everyone here agrees Stephanie is crazy. As one of the guys put it, “Dave, how do you get to know so many weird broads?"
I just finished a letter to Dad. I suppose I should write to the Smiths while I'm at it, but I think I'll write to Mary instead -- more future in that anyway, eh?
News reached us today that most of the guys who dropped out of the course are in 'Nam now. I also found out that one of the guys I knew in AIT was killed in 'Nam recently. I guess he was on patrol but that's all we know. C'est la Querre.
Well, I guess I just about talked myself out this morning so I guess I'll close for now. Maybe something interesting will happen this weekend and I'll write to you.
Love,Terry
I just talked to you so I really don't have anything for news. I'll enclose the check from Pat as well as the money I was planning to send. I haven't been anywhere to get a money order so I'll send cash. I know it's a stupid thing to do, but if I keep it for much longer there won't be anything to send.
Everyone here agrees Stephanie is crazy. As one of the guys put it, “Dave, how do you get to know so many weird broads?"
I just finished a letter to Dad. I suppose I should write to the Smiths while I'm at it, but I think I'll write to Mary instead -- more future in that anyway, eh?
News reached us today that most of the guys who dropped out of the course are in 'Nam now. I also found out that one of the guys I knew in AIT was killed in 'Nam recently. I guess he was on patrol but that's all we know. C'est la Querre.
Well, I guess I just about talked myself out this morning so I guess I'll close for now. Maybe something interesting will happen this weekend and I'll write to you.
Love,Terry
1 APRIL, 1970Dear Mom,
I'm afraid this will have to be a short note as it's going to be a rough day tomorrow and I have to catch some sleep.
First, my address:
Sgt. David T. Smith 389-46-4088A Co. 2nd Bn., 3rd AIT Bde. USATCI4th PlatoonFt. Lewis, Washington 98433
Please send my guitar muy pronto (fast). Was that air mail I sent it from Benning? If so, please send it the same way. Make sure there is a pick and my capo in the case.
I had no problems at all making connections other than the plane was about an hour late.
My luck is about par. I managed to get into a gung-ho outfit as usual. Also, my company has already started their cycle so guess who's a green little shake 'n bake? Speaking of shake 'n bakes -- man, do the old-timers hate us! Hoo hah!
I've got a room to myself which I'm in the process of decorating. I wonder if the army is ready for my style of decorating yet. Oh yes, why don't you pack my guitar with my Budweiser towel.
The entire company is composed of National Guard. These guys will be done with the army in seven weeks so you can imagine their attitude. I've had to jump on several already for saying, "Hey Sarge!" That just isn't done in a training unit.
I haven't had a chance to see the dentist yet, but I plan to pay him a visit as soon as possible. Some of my teeth feel like they're coming back, but that front one is still bad. At least my teeth go together now.
I think I'll write to Janean; not so much to make up as to explain. I guess I owe her that much. I feel sort of rotten about the whole thing.
I know this isn't much of a letter, I'll write more at a later time. I just wanted you to have my address so you can get my guitar in the mail.
Love,Terry
P.S. They won't let me grow my mustache. Rats!
I'm afraid this will have to be a short note as it's going to be a rough day tomorrow and I have to catch some sleep.
First, my address:
Sgt. David T. Smith 389-46-4088A Co. 2nd Bn., 3rd AIT Bde. USATCI4th PlatoonFt. Lewis, Washington 98433
Please send my guitar muy pronto (fast). Was that air mail I sent it from Benning? If so, please send it the same way. Make sure there is a pick and my capo in the case.
I had no problems at all making connections other than the plane was about an hour late.
My luck is about par. I managed to get into a gung-ho outfit as usual. Also, my company has already started their cycle so guess who's a green little shake 'n bake? Speaking of shake 'n bakes -- man, do the old-timers hate us! Hoo hah!
I've got a room to myself which I'm in the process of decorating. I wonder if the army is ready for my style of decorating yet. Oh yes, why don't you pack my guitar with my Budweiser towel.
The entire company is composed of National Guard. These guys will be done with the army in seven weeks so you can imagine their attitude. I've had to jump on several already for saying, "Hey Sarge!" That just isn't done in a training unit.
I haven't had a chance to see the dentist yet, but I plan to pay him a visit as soon as possible. Some of my teeth feel like they're coming back, but that front one is still bad. At least my teeth go together now.
I think I'll write to Janean; not so much to make up as to explain. I guess I owe her that much. I feel sort of rotten about the whole thing.
I know this isn't much of a letter, I'll write more at a later time. I just wanted you to have my address so you can get my guitar in the mail.
Love,Terry
P.S. They won't let me grow my mustache. Rats!
21 APRIL, 1970, 1500 hrs.Like hi, Mama Bear,
I really don't have any news, but I know you like to get my letters (I hear they're becoming collector's items) so I figure I can B.S. about two or three pages.
I forgot to tell you about my rock Sunday didn't I? It's sort of an "incentive" thing I thought up. You see, I have this twenty pound rock decorated with daisies and some of my furry creatures with the inscription "Filthy Fourth" done in German lettering. Any man who fouls up earns the right to carry my rock until one of his buddies slips and replaces him. The bearer of the rock must take it everywhere he goes -- mess hall, latrine, classes -- everywhere. He even sleeps with it. Woe betide the man who loses my rock! Cruel? Yes.
Last Thursday the man in charge of the rock fell out for reveille without it. "Where the hell is my rock?" I snarled. (You really ought to see me snarl. I do it rather well if I do say so myself.) The man reached into his pocket and pulled out an egg-sized stone with exactly the same markings as the boulder I had entrusted him with. "Well, sergeant, remember you told me to give it a bath last night?" I nodded. "I guess it must not have been sanforized, because it shrunk." What's a mother to do? I have since replaced the rock and instructed the men to wash it only in cold or luke-warm water. Hoo hah!
I am on Arms Room guard at the moment. As a matter of fact I've been on it for the last twenty-four hours. It's really not so bad; at least I can go in the back room and sleep. I'm supposed to be guarding the weapons from any subversive, pinko, degenerate, hippie, leftist commie-rats that might be lurking and skulking around the company area. Actually, if I were a subversive, pinko, degenerate, hippie, leftist commie-rat I can think of vast numbers of other places I'd rather lurk and skulk around. Hoo hah! Very interesting. . . but nasty!
In the meantime I sit around the supply room writing letters and listening to my tape recorder and avoiding the captain, the lieutenant, the first sgt. and half a dozen other people who would like to have me go out to training today. Fortunately for me I recall my class on cover and concealment plus my escape and evasion tactics.
I've been writing letters all day, and a thought just occurred to me-- I haven't got enough money for stamps. It figures.
Say, do you ever see Jerry Fieler? It seems strange that he'd drop out of sight completely. Just when I've become an assistant drill sergeant and started to develop some choice comments for him. Pity.
Say "hi" to Buddy for me and tell him to drop me a note when he gets a chance. I enjoy his letters and I can almost hear his voice as I read them.
I don't know if I told you, but there is a nasty rumor that I may only get a fifteen day leave before 'Nam. I can't say as I care much for that nonsense. I'm going to have to get busy talking the Army out of an extra two weeks but I have my doubts. Oh well, I guess I'll have to "Live fast, love hard, and... Boo! I don't care for the rest of that saying at all!
I got a letter from Mary Diem yesterday. It seems as though Janean tracked Jackie down after I left and tried to find out what had happened to me and if I was going with someone else. She doesn't realize that I can't "go" with anyone until I'm back from 'Nam and out of this damned Army. I suppose I should write to her, but I'm afraid it might hurt her more if I write than if I just let her forget about me.
I hope you got the money and the clothes in the mail Monday. I'm down to $1.23. Peter, Paul & Mary are in Seattle Friday night, but even if I had the money I'll probably be on duty Friday. Then, too, I should get in touch with Karen this weekend. Definitely do!
What are those squirrelly accomplices of yours (Stephanie & Mary H.) up to? I keep meaning to send them a card, but It's hard to find one weird enough. I don't know what they smoke, but I'd like to get some of it.
You actually picked and chose those pictures you sent didn't you? I must admit you chose some of my favorites, but mother, honestly!
Well I guess I'd better write to a few other people while I have a chance.
Take care and I'll keep in touch (hah).
Luv,Terry
I really don't have any news, but I know you like to get my letters (I hear they're becoming collector's items) so I figure I can B.S. about two or three pages.
I forgot to tell you about my rock Sunday didn't I? It's sort of an "incentive" thing I thought up. You see, I have this twenty pound rock decorated with daisies and some of my furry creatures with the inscription "Filthy Fourth" done in German lettering. Any man who fouls up earns the right to carry my rock until one of his buddies slips and replaces him. The bearer of the rock must take it everywhere he goes -- mess hall, latrine, classes -- everywhere. He even sleeps with it. Woe betide the man who loses my rock! Cruel? Yes.
Last Thursday the man in charge of the rock fell out for reveille without it. "Where the hell is my rock?" I snarled. (You really ought to see me snarl. I do it rather well if I do say so myself.) The man reached into his pocket and pulled out an egg-sized stone with exactly the same markings as the boulder I had entrusted him with. "Well, sergeant, remember you told me to give it a bath last night?" I nodded. "I guess it must not have been sanforized, because it shrunk." What's a mother to do? I have since replaced the rock and instructed the men to wash it only in cold or luke-warm water. Hoo hah!
I am on Arms Room guard at the moment. As a matter of fact I've been on it for the last twenty-four hours. It's really not so bad; at least I can go in the back room and sleep. I'm supposed to be guarding the weapons from any subversive, pinko, degenerate, hippie, leftist commie-rats that might be lurking and skulking around the company area. Actually, if I were a subversive, pinko, degenerate, hippie, leftist commie-rat I can think of vast numbers of other places I'd rather lurk and skulk around. Hoo hah! Very interesting. . . but nasty!
In the meantime I sit around the supply room writing letters and listening to my tape recorder and avoiding the captain, the lieutenant, the first sgt. and half a dozen other people who would like to have me go out to training today. Fortunately for me I recall my class on cover and concealment plus my escape and evasion tactics.
I've been writing letters all day, and a thought just occurred to me-- I haven't got enough money for stamps. It figures.
Say, do you ever see Jerry Fieler? It seems strange that he'd drop out of sight completely. Just when I've become an assistant drill sergeant and started to develop some choice comments for him. Pity.
Say "hi" to Buddy for me and tell him to drop me a note when he gets a chance. I enjoy his letters and I can almost hear his voice as I read them.
I don't know if I told you, but there is a nasty rumor that I may only get a fifteen day leave before 'Nam. I can't say as I care much for that nonsense. I'm going to have to get busy talking the Army out of an extra two weeks but I have my doubts. Oh well, I guess I'll have to "Live fast, love hard, and... Boo! I don't care for the rest of that saying at all!
I got a letter from Mary Diem yesterday. It seems as though Janean tracked Jackie down after I left and tried to find out what had happened to me and if I was going with someone else. She doesn't realize that I can't "go" with anyone until I'm back from 'Nam and out of this damned Army. I suppose I should write to her, but I'm afraid it might hurt her more if I write than if I just let her forget about me.
I hope you got the money and the clothes in the mail Monday. I'm down to $1.23. Peter, Paul & Mary are in Seattle Friday night, but even if I had the money I'll probably be on duty Friday. Then, too, I should get in touch with Karen this weekend. Definitely do!
What are those squirrelly accomplices of yours (Stephanie & Mary H.) up to? I keep meaning to send them a card, but It's hard to find one weird enough. I don't know what they smoke, but I'd like to get some of it.
You actually picked and chose those pictures you sent didn't you? I must admit you chose some of my favorites, but mother, honestly!
Well I guess I'd better write to a few other people while I have a chance.
Take care and I'll keep in touch (hah).
Luv,Terry
18 MAY, 1970Like hi, Mama Bear,
Yes, It's here at last! Yet another in the rare collector's series of letters from your son. As you will probably recall from our last issue, we left our hero and his faithful rock bravely defending the A-2-3 Arms Room from the subversive, degenerate, leftist, hippie, pinko, commie-rats lurking and skulking in the company area. Let us rejoin our hero as we find him, once again, in the Arms Room upholding Church, Home, Apple-pie, Mother, the Girl-Next-Door, and the American Way of Life (maybe if we put it to music, Robert Goullet would sing it).
You probably didn't notice as you were reading the above nonsense, but I have already taken up almost an entire page and said absolutely nothing. The fact that I am continuing this ridiculous drivel and you still haven't caught on to my ruse suggests: a) you are gullible, b) you're virtually starved for reading material, c) you are a nut, d) all of the above.
Well, yet another week has gone by and still the waitress at the NCO club refuses to elope with me. Gloom. I am crushed, but only momentarily. If she won't marry me, I wonder if she'd consider living in sin?
The company graduated Saturday and I feel like a little boy who has just had his toys taken away. Oh well, we get a new batch in next week. Oh joy! Christmas is coming early for me! Two of my ding-a-ling trainees got together last Saturday when I was on CQ and took four hours of duty as runners so they could stay up and B.S. with me. We played three-handed Euchre (hoo hah!) and discussed the possibilities of earning a C.I.B. (Combat Infantryman's Badge) as National Guardsmen on a college campus. They also presented me with a pink Snoopy with a ribbon saying "Sarge" Smith around its neck. What's a mother to do?
I should be coming home the 6th or 7th of June. That's barring invasions, nuclear holocausts, etc. Just when I start getting a few new entries in my little black book (actually it's a little brown book) too. I don't know what to tell you about my plans. There are so many things I want to do before I leave and so little time to do them in. It's probably just as well, though. If they gave me any more than two weeks I would definitely have second thoughts about going back.
Sunday, I went picnicking, kite flying, guitar playing and seducing at the ocean with Nancy. Everything worked out pretty well except for the seducing. Three out of four isn't bad! Saturday, Nancy and I are going to the mountains sightseeing, guitar playing and seducing. Cutting the number of things to do, I can't miss.
I got a letter from Buddy today. I had to laugh when he talked about picking up "Mama Bear." Looks like you've been pegged. Say hi to him for me.
Well, I guess I'd better sign off and scratch off a few lines to Dad (it'll be the second for him). I'm going to take a supply of pre-addressed postcards to 'Nam and just drop them in the mail bag periodically so you know I'm still alive. You'd be climbing the walls if you had to wait for a whole letter.
Say hi to your munchkins at the store for me and find out if any of them want to marry and/or live in sin with me. (If I sound preoccupied with female companionship, it's because Dr. Kinsey said people start going downhill after age 21, and I've only got a few weeks left.
P.S. The cookies arrived safely...somewhat intact...pretty much intact...there were a few intact...I enjoyed the crumbs a lot.
Terry
...To be continued
Yes, It's here at last! Yet another in the rare collector's series of letters from your son. As you will probably recall from our last issue, we left our hero and his faithful rock bravely defending the A-2-3 Arms Room from the subversive, degenerate, leftist, hippie, pinko, commie-rats lurking and skulking in the company area. Let us rejoin our hero as we find him, once again, in the Arms Room upholding Church, Home, Apple-pie, Mother, the Girl-Next-Door, and the American Way of Life (maybe if we put it to music, Robert Goullet would sing it).
You probably didn't notice as you were reading the above nonsense, but I have already taken up almost an entire page and said absolutely nothing. The fact that I am continuing this ridiculous drivel and you still haven't caught on to my ruse suggests: a) you are gullible, b) you're virtually starved for reading material, c) you are a nut, d) all of the above.
Well, yet another week has gone by and still the waitress at the NCO club refuses to elope with me. Gloom. I am crushed, but only momentarily. If she won't marry me, I wonder if she'd consider living in sin?
The company graduated Saturday and I feel like a little boy who has just had his toys taken away. Oh well, we get a new batch in next week. Oh joy! Christmas is coming early for me! Two of my ding-a-ling trainees got together last Saturday when I was on CQ and took four hours of duty as runners so they could stay up and B.S. with me. We played three-handed Euchre (hoo hah!) and discussed the possibilities of earning a C.I.B. (Combat Infantryman's Badge) as National Guardsmen on a college campus. They also presented me with a pink Snoopy with a ribbon saying "Sarge" Smith around its neck. What's a mother to do?
I should be coming home the 6th or 7th of June. That's barring invasions, nuclear holocausts, etc. Just when I start getting a few new entries in my little black book (actually it's a little brown book) too. I don't know what to tell you about my plans. There are so many things I want to do before I leave and so little time to do them in. It's probably just as well, though. If they gave me any more than two weeks I would definitely have second thoughts about going back.
Sunday, I went picnicking, kite flying, guitar playing and seducing at the ocean with Nancy. Everything worked out pretty well except for the seducing. Three out of four isn't bad! Saturday, Nancy and I are going to the mountains sightseeing, guitar playing and seducing. Cutting the number of things to do, I can't miss.
I got a letter from Buddy today. I had to laugh when he talked about picking up "Mama Bear." Looks like you've been pegged. Say hi to him for me.
Well, I guess I'd better sign off and scratch off a few lines to Dad (it'll be the second for him). I'm going to take a supply of pre-addressed postcards to 'Nam and just drop them in the mail bag periodically so you know I'm still alive. You'd be climbing the walls if you had to wait for a whole letter.
Say hi to your munchkins at the store for me and find out if any of them want to marry and/or live in sin with me. (If I sound preoccupied with female companionship, it's because Dr. Kinsey said people start going downhill after age 21, and I've only got a few weeks left.
P.S. The cookies arrived safely...somewhat intact...pretty much intact...there were a few intact...I enjoyed the crumbs a lot.
Terry
...To be continued
12 JULY, 1970Like hi, Mama Bear,
I'm afraid this won't be much of a letter as I don't have a hell of a lot of time but I wanted to get my address spread around as soon as possible (ASAP)
Sgt. David T. Smith 389-46-4088E 1/40 196thAmerical DivisionEPO San Francisco 96374
Yes, I've been assigned to the infamous Mei lai baby butchers (the Americal). We are located in the Northern Highlands about 65 miles south of the DMZ in what they call I Corps. So far I haven't been out to my unit yet. Right now I'm going to a school to familiarize myself with the way Charlie operates in this area. Actually, we don't deal too much with V.C. this far north, but rather N.V.A. (North Vietnamese Regulars).
There are a few items I would like to have sent to me as soon as possible: 1. my Fairborne commando knife; 2. both sharpening stones in my bag and my can of oil (if you can find it; 3. plastic laminating material (pictures fall apart in this climate unless laminated); 4. my folding hunting knife. I suppose I should have brought this gear with me but I wasn't sure I'd be allowed to have it.
I'll write a more newsy letter when I have time, but right now I just wanted to let you know I'm all right and give my address to you (I've already written Püppi but if you could give my address to Dad, Mary, Ron, etc. I would appreciate it much).
I'm enclosing some of the monopoly money we use over here. Also a Chu Hoi safe conduct pass. These are dropped from choppers and promise any V.C. or N.V.A. safe conduct and good treatment if they surrender.
I'll write again as soon as I get a chance. In the meantime be cool and don't worry about me. Jew know maybe somebody dun't tole jew but I am one rough hombre'.
Luv,"The Cub"
P.S. I will be at my unit within a couple of days so feel free to write to me there.
I'm afraid this won't be much of a letter as I don't have a hell of a lot of time but I wanted to get my address spread around as soon as possible (ASAP)
Sgt. David T. Smith 389-46-4088E 1/40 196thAmerical DivisionEPO San Francisco 96374
Yes, I've been assigned to the infamous Mei lai baby butchers (the Americal). We are located in the Northern Highlands about 65 miles south of the DMZ in what they call I Corps. So far I haven't been out to my unit yet. Right now I'm going to a school to familiarize myself with the way Charlie operates in this area. Actually, we don't deal too much with V.C. this far north, but rather N.V.A. (North Vietnamese Regulars).
There are a few items I would like to have sent to me as soon as possible: 1. my Fairborne commando knife; 2. both sharpening stones in my bag and my can of oil (if you can find it; 3. plastic laminating material (pictures fall apart in this climate unless laminated); 4. my folding hunting knife. I suppose I should have brought this gear with me but I wasn't sure I'd be allowed to have it.
I'll write a more newsy letter when I have time, but right now I just wanted to let you know I'm all right and give my address to you (I've already written Püppi but if you could give my address to Dad, Mary, Ron, etc. I would appreciate it much).
I'm enclosing some of the monopoly money we use over here. Also a Chu Hoi safe conduct pass. These are dropped from choppers and promise any V.C. or N.V.A. safe conduct and good treatment if they surrender.
I'll write again as soon as I get a chance. In the meantime be cool and don't worry about me. Jew know maybe somebody dun't tole jew but I am one rough hombre'.
Luv,"The Cub"
P.S. I will be at my unit within a couple of days so feel free to write to me there.
29 July, 1970LZ Mary AnnRVN
Like hi, Mama Bear,
No, I haven't forgotten about you, but letter writing has never been my strong point and I'm operating under a handicap over here anyway. Next door to my bunker is a helicopter pad and it do make it difficult.
I received your package yesterday. Thank you much. The cookies arrived in beautiful shape. Not one was broken. I gave some to my little munchkin buddies, the ARVNs. As they say, "Chop Chop, number one!" They seem to think I'm the greatest thing since John Wayne, and invited me over for dinner (you come! Chop Chop). I'm afraid I haven't mastered the use of chop sticks yet so they gave me a spoon.
I'm scheduled to go out on an operation in two days so I probably won't get a chance to write for a while. As a matter of fact, I was supposed to go out yesterday and join a company of ARVNs whose Australian advisor had to be "dusted off" At the last minute, I received word that MACV (sort of like special forces advisors) was sending out a replacement. Can you see me out there with a bunch of little munchkins who know maybe half a dozen words of English between them? Oy vay!
I wonder if you could send me Ron's address. All I know is he lives somewhere on Warbler Lane. Say, it sounds like his band is really making it. Püppi said she thought they were pretty good anyway. Give Ron my address if you should happen to see him. I'd like to hear from the old rapscallion.
You and Püppi seem to get along pretty well. Glad to hear it. I know she thinks you're great. You are, you know, but I just thought I'd tell you you've got another cub to mother.
As Püppi will explain to you, it won't be possible to get an "early out" to go back to school. I warned you not to get your hopes up. If I could find a school that operated on a quarters system it would be another story, but the Army won't give over ninety days for a school drop and even that is sometimes difficult to get. C'est la querre.
The Americal is supposed to pull out of 'Nam by the first of the year, but that won't affect me. It will be the same as when The Big Red One pulled out last spring -- the colors will go home but the troops with less than ten months in country will be transferred to other units. Rats!
I doubt if I'll be going to Thailand, but if Milty wants a carved elephant or anything else (or if anybody wants anything) I could probably pick it up in Chu Lai next time I get back to the rear.
If you get confused by some of the terms I use or by abbreviations just let me know and I'll explain them to you. I sometimes forget that Army slang is not in common usage "back in the world"; (U.S.) I've thought of compiling a "Civilians Guide to Army Slang," but I just haven't gotten around to it.
I could definitely use a barber. I haven't had a hair cut in almost two months and it's too damn hot to wear long hair over here. Maybe I can get one in August.
I'd send pictures, but as you know your idiot son didn't bring his camera. Another thing I wish I'd brought is my Aussie bush hat. We are authorized bush hats over here but as usual the kid got screwed and I wasn't issued one.
The other night my platoon sgt., the supply sgt., the mess sgt., a buddy of mine from NCO school, and myself want up the hill to the mess hall and proceeded to eat forty-odd hard-boiled eggs and drink two cases of Hamms. Hoo hah! War is hell!
I can't imagine why anybody would want to have underwear sent from home (as I recall, Janice said something about it). Underwear encourages jungle rot and so nobody in their right mind wears it (we're real swingers).
I'm afraid I'm running out of things to say (also paper to say it on -- I've got four sheets left). You might say "Vietnam isn't worth writing home about."
Remember that idiotic questionnaire Boscobel High School sent me? I mailed it yesterday. I'd give a months pay to see Earl Ward's face when he reads that. I filled it out just like I said I would: What do you do for a living? -- I kill people. What do you actually do on the job? -- Rape, pillage and plunder, etc., etc. I'll bet the school board calls an emergency meeting to see if they can't revoke my diploma.
Say hi to Buddy for me -- also the girls at the store. Be cool, and don't worry, I'm still hiding under my steel pot (all I have to worry about now is a horny turtle).
Luv,The Cub
Like hi, Mama Bear,
No, I haven't forgotten about you, but letter writing has never been my strong point and I'm operating under a handicap over here anyway. Next door to my bunker is a helicopter pad and it do make it difficult.
I received your package yesterday. Thank you much. The cookies arrived in beautiful shape. Not one was broken. I gave some to my little munchkin buddies, the ARVNs. As they say, "Chop Chop, number one!" They seem to think I'm the greatest thing since John Wayne, and invited me over for dinner (you come! Chop Chop). I'm afraid I haven't mastered the use of chop sticks yet so they gave me a spoon.
I'm scheduled to go out on an operation in two days so I probably won't get a chance to write for a while. As a matter of fact, I was supposed to go out yesterday and join a company of ARVNs whose Australian advisor had to be "dusted off" At the last minute, I received word that MACV (sort of like special forces advisors) was sending out a replacement. Can you see me out there with a bunch of little munchkins who know maybe half a dozen words of English between them? Oy vay!
I wonder if you could send me Ron's address. All I know is he lives somewhere on Warbler Lane. Say, it sounds like his band is really making it. Püppi said she thought they were pretty good anyway. Give Ron my address if you should happen to see him. I'd like to hear from the old rapscallion.
You and Püppi seem to get along pretty well. Glad to hear it. I know she thinks you're great. You are, you know, but I just thought I'd tell you you've got another cub to mother.
As Püppi will explain to you, it won't be possible to get an "early out" to go back to school. I warned you not to get your hopes up. If I could find a school that operated on a quarters system it would be another story, but the Army won't give over ninety days for a school drop and even that is sometimes difficult to get. C'est la querre.
The Americal is supposed to pull out of 'Nam by the first of the year, but that won't affect me. It will be the same as when The Big Red One pulled out last spring -- the colors will go home but the troops with less than ten months in country will be transferred to other units. Rats!
I doubt if I'll be going to Thailand, but if Milty wants a carved elephant or anything else (or if anybody wants anything) I could probably pick it up in Chu Lai next time I get back to the rear.
If you get confused by some of the terms I use or by abbreviations just let me know and I'll explain them to you. I sometimes forget that Army slang is not in common usage "back in the world"; (U.S.) I've thought of compiling a "Civilians Guide to Army Slang," but I just haven't gotten around to it.
I could definitely use a barber. I haven't had a hair cut in almost two months and it's too damn hot to wear long hair over here. Maybe I can get one in August.
I'd send pictures, but as you know your idiot son didn't bring his camera. Another thing I wish I'd brought is my Aussie bush hat. We are authorized bush hats over here but as usual the kid got screwed and I wasn't issued one.
The other night my platoon sgt., the supply sgt., the mess sgt., a buddy of mine from NCO school, and myself want up the hill to the mess hall and proceeded to eat forty-odd hard-boiled eggs and drink two cases of Hamms. Hoo hah! War is hell!
I can't imagine why anybody would want to have underwear sent from home (as I recall, Janice said something about it). Underwear encourages jungle rot and so nobody in their right mind wears it (we're real swingers).
I'm afraid I'm running out of things to say (also paper to say it on -- I've got four sheets left). You might say "Vietnam isn't worth writing home about."
Remember that idiotic questionnaire Boscobel High School sent me? I mailed it yesterday. I'd give a months pay to see Earl Ward's face when he reads that. I filled it out just like I said I would: What do you do for a living? -- I kill people. What do you actually do on the job? -- Rape, pillage and plunder, etc., etc. I'll bet the school board calls an emergency meeting to see if they can't revoke my diploma.
Say hi to Buddy for me -- also the girls at the store. Be cool, and don't worry, I'm still hiding under my steel pot (all I have to worry about now is a horny turtle).
Luv,The Cub
5 SEPT, 1970Like hi, Mama Bear,
I just finished a letter to Püppi, so while I'm in this strange and rare mood I thought I'd write to you. Maybe I'll even get around to writing Pat.
This will probably be a rather uninteresting letter as nothing exciting has happened (thank God) but I suppose it's better than no letter at all.
Stand down was postponed (thanks to a brown nosing captain who volunteered us for another week in the bush) so, as it stands now, we should go in tomorrow. I'm ready. I hope "Captain Blood" is.
As I told Püppi (I don't know why I'm telling you too since apparently you and she swap letters) I'm thinking of buying a camera in Chu Lai. The instamatic is fine to carry in the field, but it takes so long to get film processed here. I can pick up a $150 Polaroid for $74. That way I could send pictures home a lot easier. Actually, the only place I have to spend money is on stand down or R&R. Most of my money goes into the 10 soldier Savings.
I wonder if I could promote another batch of cookies out of my favorite cookie maker? It's been almost (almost? it's been over) a month now. I could also groove on spam or treat or some sort of canned meat. C-rations every day leave something to be desired. Also, a package of pre-sweetened Kool-Aid now and then would be nice. Did you ever find my bush hat? I picked up a battered Army issue bush hat that I've been wearing lately. I received a notice that I have an insured package waiting for me in Chu Lai. I wonder if that's my camera? Insured packages are difficult when I'm in the bush, as I have to sign for them. That means I have to go to the rear, and for some reason company commanders frown on that (can't imagine why). Oh yes, If you could find one of my steel mirrors (probably in my black bag next to the "safes") I'd like to have one.
Buddy sent me a feather to put in my cap for camouflage, and that's just what I did with it. Would you believe he wrote me a letter on one of his building inspection sheets? Definitely cool! I sure wish I could sit out the war on a lonely little island. This jungle is getting to be a real bummer.
Bugs over here are something else! Mosquitoes, black flies, noseeums, etc., etc. The ants over here bite on one end and sting on the other (knew a girl like that once). And the leeches! Oh! the leeches! I've picked as many as seven off one spot. At the end of a day's hump I look like Humphrey Bogart in the African Queen.
I'm going to have a meal tonight! Spaghetti C-ration (yech!) with cheese (hmm) and fresh peppers from the bush next to me (hmmm), and fresh (some kind of) fruit (picked from a nearby tree (mmmm). Now if I can find a way of utilizing the two cinnamon trees my hammock is hanging from... We also have corn and wild sweet potatoes (Hoo hah!) and if I can scrounge up enough water I'll have hot chocolate. Can you dig it? -- The galloping gourmet.
Guess I really don't have much for news so I'll sign off for now. Oh yes, just to ease your mind -- I am quite a bit south of the fighting (and I like it that way).
Just thought of something else you could send me. It would really blow the COs mind to see me roasting marshmallows on my bowie knife. If you do send me any, no large quantities please. There's not a whole lot of room in my rucksack.
Till later, be cool.
The Cub
P.S. I was always in favor of making "love not war" but at this point I'd settle for making love and war.
I just finished a letter to Püppi, so while I'm in this strange and rare mood I thought I'd write to you. Maybe I'll even get around to writing Pat.
This will probably be a rather uninteresting letter as nothing exciting has happened (thank God) but I suppose it's better than no letter at all.
Stand down was postponed (thanks to a brown nosing captain who volunteered us for another week in the bush) so, as it stands now, we should go in tomorrow. I'm ready. I hope "Captain Blood" is.
As I told Püppi (I don't know why I'm telling you too since apparently you and she swap letters) I'm thinking of buying a camera in Chu Lai. The instamatic is fine to carry in the field, but it takes so long to get film processed here. I can pick up a $150 Polaroid for $74. That way I could send pictures home a lot easier. Actually, the only place I have to spend money is on stand down or R&R. Most of my money goes into the 10 soldier Savings.
I wonder if I could promote another batch of cookies out of my favorite cookie maker? It's been almost (almost? it's been over) a month now. I could also groove on spam or treat or some sort of canned meat. C-rations every day leave something to be desired. Also, a package of pre-sweetened Kool-Aid now and then would be nice. Did you ever find my bush hat? I picked up a battered Army issue bush hat that I've been wearing lately. I received a notice that I have an insured package waiting for me in Chu Lai. I wonder if that's my camera? Insured packages are difficult when I'm in the bush, as I have to sign for them. That means I have to go to the rear, and for some reason company commanders frown on that (can't imagine why). Oh yes, If you could find one of my steel mirrors (probably in my black bag next to the "safes") I'd like to have one.
Buddy sent me a feather to put in my cap for camouflage, and that's just what I did with it. Would you believe he wrote me a letter on one of his building inspection sheets? Definitely cool! I sure wish I could sit out the war on a lonely little island. This jungle is getting to be a real bummer.
Bugs over here are something else! Mosquitoes, black flies, noseeums, etc., etc. The ants over here bite on one end and sting on the other (knew a girl like that once). And the leeches! Oh! the leeches! I've picked as many as seven off one spot. At the end of a day's hump I look like Humphrey Bogart in the African Queen.
I'm going to have a meal tonight! Spaghetti C-ration (yech!) with cheese (hmm) and fresh peppers from the bush next to me (hmmm), and fresh (some kind of) fruit (picked from a nearby tree (mmmm). Now if I can find a way of utilizing the two cinnamon trees my hammock is hanging from... We also have corn and wild sweet potatoes (Hoo hah!) and if I can scrounge up enough water I'll have hot chocolate. Can you dig it? -- The galloping gourmet.
Guess I really don't have much for news so I'll sign off for now. Oh yes, just to ease your mind -- I am quite a bit south of the fighting (and I like it that way).
Just thought of something else you could send me. It would really blow the COs mind to see me roasting marshmallows on my bowie knife. If you do send me any, no large quantities please. There's not a whole lot of room in my rucksack.
Till later, be cool.
The Cub
P.S. I was always in favor of making "love not war" but at this point I'd settle for making love and war.
Did you read in the papers about the helicopter crash on Fire Support Base Judy? That's where your last letter from me was written. I was part of the security. The papers are in error though, it wasn't a rocket that brought the shithook down -- just a couple of dinks with AK-47s.
This letter was not mailed immediately. As a matter of fact, it wasn't mailed even close to immediately. I've got a buddy you could call "FUBAR" and when I returned after stand down I found he had forgotten to put my mail on the bird. At any rate, I'll make a few additions and bring this hodgepodge up to date.
I am once again on Mary Ann after three days in Chu Lai. I feel almost naked without a rifle and rucksack, but I think I'd like to become a full-time nudist. There is a possibility of just that. There is talk of squeezing me into the four-deuce (4.2" mortar) section here on Mary Ann. So far it's just talk, but who knows? Otherwise, I'll be leaving for another camping trip in about five days (perish the thought).
I bopped up to the battalion mail room in Chu Lai and collected that package -- cookies, camera and bush hat. I'm afraid my luck is running par for the course. A rat beat me to the cookies (only a few of them) and a two-legged rat got into my rucksack that night and stole the camera. Go ahead. Ask me if I'm mad. They were sold out of cameras at the Px except for some rather sophisticated looking 35 mms. You know how mechanically inclined I am. I still regard electricity as "white man's magic" and cameras as "magic boxes that capture the soul." In spite of my superstitions, I'm willing to try again if you are (i.e., my Polaroid and beaucoup film).
I did buy a cassette tape recorder on stand down. Even if I don't get a job on the hill right now, I should get it within a month or two. Besides, when I am on the hill I'll have music to listen to and I'll be able to send recorded letters home (the reason I didn't have you send my other tape player). Now, I need tapes (plumb hard to come by in these parts). PP&M, S&G, Neil Diamond, BGs, anything else you think I might like (they are in my ammo can). Also some blank tapes (I think there are a few on my bookcase, but I could use more). Mark the package (this goes for Polaroid too) Pre-recorded Tapes -- Film -- Do not send to field. My cohorts in the mail room will (hopefully) shortstop the package and give it to me when I return. If you insure the package it stays in Chu Lai and it means a big hassle trying to get it. On second thought, maybe you'd better insure it. May luck is far from good and some slimy, low-life SOB would be bound to scarf it up. Some of those tapes would be very difficult to replace.
Are you up for still another of my tasks? (pushy little bastard, ain't I?) Could you take one of my pairs of glasses down to Doc Jansen and see if he could make me a pair of wire rimmed glasses? Believe it or not, there is a reason for this seemingly ridiculous request. The plastic on my GI glasses causes me to break out with all sorts of nasty little zits when I sweat -- and I do sweat in the field. Not just metal frames -- wire. I prefer a narrow rectangular frame, but we'll see what you can do. Jensen can determine my prescription from my old glasses. In the meantime, throw a pair of GI glasses in with the tapes. I broke mine and I can get them faster from you than I can through the Army.
I realize I'm asking a lot (so what else is new?) but I really appreciate it. Please bear with me (no pun intended).
After no word from Jane since I left on my "vacation" I finally got a letter. Would you believe a carbon copy?! What a bitch! I realize we are no longer lovers. In fact, that was my decision, but a carbon copy? I'm going to write her name and address on the walls of every latrine from De Nang to Saigon. That ought to keep her busy for a while. Hoo hah! Cruel? Yes.
Well, I'd better get some sack time. I will personally stick this on the first bird out in the morning.
The Cub
P.S. The cookies (except for a couple the rats got) were intact and delicious. I had to beat my buddies away or I wouldn't have had any.
This letter was not mailed immediately. As a matter of fact, it wasn't mailed even close to immediately. I've got a buddy you could call "FUBAR" and when I returned after stand down I found he had forgotten to put my mail on the bird. At any rate, I'll make a few additions and bring this hodgepodge up to date.
I am once again on Mary Ann after three days in Chu Lai. I feel almost naked without a rifle and rucksack, but I think I'd like to become a full-time nudist. There is a possibility of just that. There is talk of squeezing me into the four-deuce (4.2" mortar) section here on Mary Ann. So far it's just talk, but who knows? Otherwise, I'll be leaving for another camping trip in about five days (perish the thought).
I bopped up to the battalion mail room in Chu Lai and collected that package -- cookies, camera and bush hat. I'm afraid my luck is running par for the course. A rat beat me to the cookies (only a few of them) and a two-legged rat got into my rucksack that night and stole the camera. Go ahead. Ask me if I'm mad. They were sold out of cameras at the Px except for some rather sophisticated looking 35 mms. You know how mechanically inclined I am. I still regard electricity as "white man's magic" and cameras as "magic boxes that capture the soul." In spite of my superstitions, I'm willing to try again if you are (i.e., my Polaroid and beaucoup film).
I did buy a cassette tape recorder on stand down. Even if I don't get a job on the hill right now, I should get it within a month or two. Besides, when I am on the hill I'll have music to listen to and I'll be able to send recorded letters home (the reason I didn't have you send my other tape player). Now, I need tapes (plumb hard to come by in these parts). PP&M, S&G, Neil Diamond, BGs, anything else you think I might like (they are in my ammo can). Also some blank tapes (I think there are a few on my bookcase, but I could use more). Mark the package (this goes for Polaroid too) Pre-recorded Tapes -- Film -- Do not send to field. My cohorts in the mail room will (hopefully) shortstop the package and give it to me when I return. If you insure the package it stays in Chu Lai and it means a big hassle trying to get it. On second thought, maybe you'd better insure it. May luck is far from good and some slimy, low-life SOB would be bound to scarf it up. Some of those tapes would be very difficult to replace.
Are you up for still another of my tasks? (pushy little bastard, ain't I?) Could you take one of my pairs of glasses down to Doc Jansen and see if he could make me a pair of wire rimmed glasses? Believe it or not, there is a reason for this seemingly ridiculous request. The plastic on my GI glasses causes me to break out with all sorts of nasty little zits when I sweat -- and I do sweat in the field. Not just metal frames -- wire. I prefer a narrow rectangular frame, but we'll see what you can do. Jensen can determine my prescription from my old glasses. In the meantime, throw a pair of GI glasses in with the tapes. I broke mine and I can get them faster from you than I can through the Army.
I realize I'm asking a lot (so what else is new?) but I really appreciate it. Please bear with me (no pun intended).
After no word from Jane since I left on my "vacation" I finally got a letter. Would you believe a carbon copy?! What a bitch! I realize we are no longer lovers. In fact, that was my decision, but a carbon copy? I'm going to write her name and address on the walls of every latrine from De Nang to Saigon. That ought to keep her busy for a while. Hoo hah! Cruel? Yes.
Well, I'd better get some sack time. I will personally stick this on the first bird out in the morning.
The Cub
P.S. The cookies (except for a couple the rats got) were intact and delicious. I had to beat my buddies away or I wouldn't have had any.
11 SEPT, 1970Like hi, Mama Bear,
This letter is being written under very adverse circumstances so please make allowances. At the moment it is raining like you wouldn't believe. I guess monsoon is here or at least is on the way.
I'm out on what is supposed to be a fifteen-day mission, but I wouldn't count on it. Captain Ford always finds some reason to stay out longer. We have a company motto: "Ford has a better idea -- keeps you going."
I'm soaked to the skin and covered with mud, mosquito bites, leeches and a heat rash that just won't quit. If it wasn't for a half pint of bourbon I would probably go stark raving mad.
I'm breaking in a new RTO (radio/telephone operator) who likes the jungle even less than I do (is that possible?) He seems to think the jungle is out to get him personally. He just doesn't realize everyone has to endure it, not just him. He'll learn.
I guess I'm the only one in this damned platoon who can read a compass. Today I had to straighten out the 1st Sgt. on our location, before that it was a squad leader, and before that the platoon Sgt. This gives me a rather uneasy feeling. Sure it makes one feel good to be consulted, and even better to think that I can read a map better than the "first shirt," but Jesus! -- these are the men who are supposed to be leaders, and they can't even read a map!
As you have probably gathered from the fact that I am once again in the bush, my job on the hill fell through. A new man came into the company while I was on stand down and they gave him the gun. It figures.
It's getting dark so I'd better fix some chop chop and then catch some sack time. I'll try to write more tomorrow.
This letter is being written under very adverse circumstances so please make allowances. At the moment it is raining like you wouldn't believe. I guess monsoon is here or at least is on the way.
I'm out on what is supposed to be a fifteen-day mission, but I wouldn't count on it. Captain Ford always finds some reason to stay out longer. We have a company motto: "Ford has a better idea -- keeps you going."
I'm soaked to the skin and covered with mud, mosquito bites, leeches and a heat rash that just won't quit. If it wasn't for a half pint of bourbon I would probably go stark raving mad.
I'm breaking in a new RTO (radio/telephone operator) who likes the jungle even less than I do (is that possible?) He seems to think the jungle is out to get him personally. He just doesn't realize everyone has to endure it, not just him. He'll learn.
I guess I'm the only one in this damned platoon who can read a compass. Today I had to straighten out the 1st Sgt. on our location, before that it was a squad leader, and before that the platoon Sgt. This gives me a rather uneasy feeling. Sure it makes one feel good to be consulted, and even better to think that I can read a map better than the "first shirt," but Jesus! -- these are the men who are supposed to be leaders, and they can't even read a map!
As you have probably gathered from the fact that I am once again in the bush, my job on the hill fell through. A new man came into the company while I was on stand down and they gave him the gun. It figures.
It's getting dark so I'd better fix some chop chop and then catch some sack time. I'll try to write more tomorrow.
Sept. 12
We found quite a little bunker this morning. About 10' by 12' made of brick about two feet thick. Big as it was, it was so well concealed that it could not be seen until we were within three feet of it. Very interesting. . . but sneaky.
Right now we are waiting for a resupply bird, so I'll try to finish this and get it out today.
I haven't had time to write to Pat yet, but I really enjoy her letters -- also the girls. Did you know Donna wrote me a poem? It was really cute. [see poem above]
I doubt if I'll have a chance to write Püppi today, so I wish you'd call and tell her everything's cool, and I still love her, even if I don't write regularly.
I got a package from Dad the day I left on this mission. Contents: pipe, booze, sardines, tuna, caramel mints, and other goodies. If you see him, tell him I received it. I've lost the pipe already (camping out is hell on pipes), drank the booze, and eaten most of the food. Tell him I particularly liked: the mints, red snapper, tuna, sardines and pears. Boned turkey I get in C rations. Spam, treat, corned beef (any canned sandwich meat) is good. They also make pudding in cans. He asked me to tell him what I liked and disliked.
I've got an idea it takes longer for my mail to reach you than for yours to reach me. Don't worry if mail is a bit slow, I'm all right or you'd know about it within 48 hours.
Well, I'm going to chomp Charleys (eat some C's) and try to get out another letter before that bird gets here.
Luv,The Cub
We found quite a little bunker this morning. About 10' by 12' made of brick about two feet thick. Big as it was, it was so well concealed that it could not be seen until we were within three feet of it. Very interesting. . . but sneaky.
Right now we are waiting for a resupply bird, so I'll try to finish this and get it out today.
I haven't had time to write to Pat yet, but I really enjoy her letters -- also the girls. Did you know Donna wrote me a poem? It was really cute. [see poem above]
I doubt if I'll have a chance to write Püppi today, so I wish you'd call and tell her everything's cool, and I still love her, even if I don't write regularly.
I got a package from Dad the day I left on this mission. Contents: pipe, booze, sardines, tuna, caramel mints, and other goodies. If you see him, tell him I received it. I've lost the pipe already (camping out is hell on pipes), drank the booze, and eaten most of the food. Tell him I particularly liked: the mints, red snapper, tuna, sardines and pears. Boned turkey I get in C rations. Spam, treat, corned beef (any canned sandwich meat) is good. They also make pudding in cans. He asked me to tell him what I liked and disliked.
I've got an idea it takes longer for my mail to reach you than for yours to reach me. Don't worry if mail is a bit slow, I'm all right or you'd know about it within 48 hours.
Well, I'm going to chomp Charleys (eat some C's) and try to get out another letter before that bird gets here.
Luv,The Cub
2 OCT, 1970Like hi, Mama Bear!
I'm on Mary Ann once again, waiting for word to go out in the bush. It's been raining off and on all week, so I guess monsoon is finally here.
I would have been on the hill sooner except for a small-size SNAFU.
It all started when we found a hooch containing a ton of unshucked (polished?) rice. Now we could have, should have, and probably would have, burned the damn stuff except for a brown-nosing E-6 who was the acting platoon leader. He called the CO who was operating some distance away with the rest of the company and reported his marvelous find. Thus, instead of returning to the fire base the next day, we were extended for an additional two days while the rice was bagged and transported to an LZ for chopper pick-up. I won't even describe those two days of mud and rain as we played nursemaid to a ton of rice. Food ran out and some tried to shuck the rice, one grain at a time, in order to get a meal.
When the birds finally came for us, I was on a small ambush patrol.
"Three-four, this is one-two -- come on home. The birds are on the way over."
"One-two, this is three-four -- We've found another hooch, please advise -- over."
"Three-four, this is one-two -- If you won't tell anyone I won't -- out."
I received the package with the cookies and glasses (both were outstanding!) and also one with tapes and the camera. I'll enclose some pictures. I'm also sending some to Dad and Püppi. It might be nice to have prints made of the color shot for Dad and Püppi. I've got a couple of requests: 1. rest of my tapes, 2. more film and batteries - pen light (two) and C-cells (six), 3. my guitar (my other one has two broken tuning pegs, and what the hell, I've taken the damn thing every where else in the Army, 4. fudge.
Mail hasn't been able to reach or leave the hill all week as we are really socked in. Birds don't like to fly in the mountains when visibility is zero. Can't understand why.
The last mission was almost pleasant. That is to say no one was shot or even shot at. I still don't like the jungle very much. Speaking of the jungle -- looks like I'll be going out again tomorrow. The sky is clearing up a bit.
I wrote to Pat a couple of weeks ago. I'm afraid it wasn't much of a letter, but it was the best I could do under the circumstances.
I received one of the Playboys you sent, but I'm afraid they are prime targets of mailroom hijackers. Keep up the good work -- packages, magazines, letters, etc., make life much more bearable.
I had another letter from Jane. This one wasn't a carbon either. Fact is, it wasn't much of anything. I've received more interesting letters addressed "occupant." To think I almost married her. Hoo hah! I've got an idea I just wasn't destined to be a happily married, seven-day-a-week, well-adjusted, white-collar worker. I think I'll become a helmet.
I still haven't heard from Ron yet, but I suppose he's pretty busy. I wrote him one letter several weeks ago. I'd like to know how his band is doing.
Believe it or not I'm beginning to be an "old timer" in Charlie Company, and I'm only in my fourth month. When we get a new guy they say, "Snuffy, break him in." I then spend the next three weeks (or until his first fire fight/whichever comes first) teaching him how to get out of 'Nam alive.
I guess I won't be taking an R&R. Echo Company is booked up until June for both Australia and Hawaii. That leaves me Thailand or Hong Kong. The hell with it! I want to see round eyes. C'est la Querre.
Whoops! There's a CMMI inspector team on the way over here (weapons & gas masks) so I'd better di di the area. I think I'll go up on the bunker line. I'm just not in the mood to hassle with lifers today.
LUV,The Cub
"Suppose they gave a war, and nobody came"
I'm on Mary Ann once again, waiting for word to go out in the bush. It's been raining off and on all week, so I guess monsoon is finally here.
I would have been on the hill sooner except for a small-size SNAFU.
It all started when we found a hooch containing a ton of unshucked (polished?) rice. Now we could have, should have, and probably would have, burned the damn stuff except for a brown-nosing E-6 who was the acting platoon leader. He called the CO who was operating some distance away with the rest of the company and reported his marvelous find. Thus, instead of returning to the fire base the next day, we were extended for an additional two days while the rice was bagged and transported to an LZ for chopper pick-up. I won't even describe those two days of mud and rain as we played nursemaid to a ton of rice. Food ran out and some tried to shuck the rice, one grain at a time, in order to get a meal.
When the birds finally came for us, I was on a small ambush patrol.
"Three-four, this is one-two -- come on home. The birds are on the way over."
"One-two, this is three-four -- We've found another hooch, please advise -- over."
"Three-four, this is one-two -- If you won't tell anyone I won't -- out."
I received the package with the cookies and glasses (both were outstanding!) and also one with tapes and the camera. I'll enclose some pictures. I'm also sending some to Dad and Püppi. It might be nice to have prints made of the color shot for Dad and Püppi. I've got a couple of requests: 1. rest of my tapes, 2. more film and batteries - pen light (two) and C-cells (six), 3. my guitar (my other one has two broken tuning pegs, and what the hell, I've taken the damn thing every where else in the Army, 4. fudge.
Mail hasn't been able to reach or leave the hill all week as we are really socked in. Birds don't like to fly in the mountains when visibility is zero. Can't understand why.
The last mission was almost pleasant. That is to say no one was shot or even shot at. I still don't like the jungle very much. Speaking of the jungle -- looks like I'll be going out again tomorrow. The sky is clearing up a bit.
I wrote to Pat a couple of weeks ago. I'm afraid it wasn't much of a letter, but it was the best I could do under the circumstances.
I received one of the Playboys you sent, but I'm afraid they are prime targets of mailroom hijackers. Keep up the good work -- packages, magazines, letters, etc., make life much more bearable.
I had another letter from Jane. This one wasn't a carbon either. Fact is, it wasn't much of anything. I've received more interesting letters addressed "occupant." To think I almost married her. Hoo hah! I've got an idea I just wasn't destined to be a happily married, seven-day-a-week, well-adjusted, white-collar worker. I think I'll become a helmet.
I still haven't heard from Ron yet, but I suppose he's pretty busy. I wrote him one letter several weeks ago. I'd like to know how his band is doing.
Believe it or not I'm beginning to be an "old timer" in Charlie Company, and I'm only in my fourth month. When we get a new guy they say, "Snuffy, break him in." I then spend the next three weeks (or until his first fire fight/whichever comes first) teaching him how to get out of 'Nam alive.
I guess I won't be taking an R&R. Echo Company is booked up until June for both Australia and Hawaii. That leaves me Thailand or Hong Kong. The hell with it! I want to see round eyes. C'est la Querre.
Whoops! There's a CMMI inspector team on the way over here (weapons & gas masks) so I'd better di di the area. I think I'll go up on the bunker line. I'm just not in the mood to hassle with lifers today.
LUV,The Cub
"Suppose they gave a war, and nobody came"
4 NOV, 1970Like hi, Mama Bear,
This is just a note for the purpose of sending you some snapshots. You should have received, or will receive shortly, two tapes. I hope you can figure out how to play them and record your own tapes. Ron could help you out.
I just wrote to Püppi and she can fill you in on some of my problems with my gun. They are mainly potheads and lifers.
As I said before, this is not a letter, but merely a supplement to the tapes. It's quite late and I have to be up early. Tomorrow is going to be a busy day.
I received a box of fudge from Mary Harrington. I was surprised, to say the least. Anyway, I wanted to write and thank her -- it was great, but wouldn't you know it? Your idiot son lost the return address.
I wonder if you could ask Dad to send my folding hunting knife? I wrote, but forgot to tell him.
I suppose I should explain Susie. She's the only female on the hill, and she makes her home in Three Gun (my gun). She almost got raped this morning by a scout dog that was on the hill temporarily. She's the only dog on the hill except for transient dogs which are really quite rare. As you can see from the pictures, she is still a puppy. Ironically, although she is a dink dog, she hates dinks. Even the smell of them sets her off barking.
I'm truly sorry this has to be so short, but I must crash for a couple of hours. I'll be writing more regularly now that I'm on the hill.
LUV,Terry
This is just a note for the purpose of sending you some snapshots. You should have received, or will receive shortly, two tapes. I hope you can figure out how to play them and record your own tapes. Ron could help you out.
I just wrote to Püppi and she can fill you in on some of my problems with my gun. They are mainly potheads and lifers.
As I said before, this is not a letter, but merely a supplement to the tapes. It's quite late and I have to be up early. Tomorrow is going to be a busy day.
I received a box of fudge from Mary Harrington. I was surprised, to say the least. Anyway, I wanted to write and thank her -- it was great, but wouldn't you know it? Your idiot son lost the return address.
I wonder if you could ask Dad to send my folding hunting knife? I wrote, but forgot to tell him.
I suppose I should explain Susie. She's the only female on the hill, and she makes her home in Three Gun (my gun). She almost got raped this morning by a scout dog that was on the hill temporarily. She's the only dog on the hill except for transient dogs which are really quite rare. As you can see from the pictures, she is still a puppy. Ironically, although she is a dink dog, she hates dinks. Even the smell of them sets her off barking.
I'm truly sorry this has to be so short, but I must crash for a couple of hours. I'll be writing more regularly now that I'm on the hill.
LUV,Terry
11 NOV, 1970Like hi, Mama Bear,
We're rained in again. I should have gone in on stand down two days ago, but now who knows? This damned hill is just too far out to be resupplied or reinforced during monsoon. You'd think higher higher would have realized that by now. You see, Mary Ann is one of the farthest Fire Support Bases and it's in the middle of a mountain range to boot. Mary Ann is some big SNAFU, but I guess I've been in the Army long enough not to expect anything different.
I sure hope you got the tapes and figured out how to use them. I still haven't heard anything on my guitar. Of course, we've been cut off from Chu Lai for four days now, so that could explain it. I've got an idea even Chu Lai is having troubles. It's been hit by two tropical storms in the last month.
I'm afraid my men don't care too much for me. I guess they liked the old squad leader pretty well and resent my taking his place. Also, there are the pot heads who used to come over to Three Gun to "pass the bowl." I've brought an end to that. I'd like to be liked, but it's got to be on my terms. I have certain responsibilities as a squad leader.
As a matter of fact, it's been such a hassle lately that I've been considering going back to the bush. Don't worry, I doubt if it will come to that, and if it does it wouldn't be until after monsoon. Impetuous yes -- stupid no.
There is a new policy going into effect this month. If you have more than four months in country, and less than eight, you are eligible for a two weak leave back to the world. The only catch is, you have to pay your own way. R&R is still possible with this leave. My only thought is I might not come back to this sorry place if I got back to the world. Guys who have already been on stand down say the PX in Chu Lai is sold out of just about everything and due to the weather has not been restocked. Maybe I won't get a camera after all.
Some of the guys on the bunker line caught a mouse deer that was tangled in the wire last week. She (it was a doe) was only about twelve inches high. I remember reading about them in that Frank Buck book when I was a kid, so it was sort of cool to really see one.
Say, you know I could dig some tapes for Christmas. Tapes I'd like include: anything of Clancy Bros. (I doubt if you can find anything); Rolling Stones -- "High Tide & Green Grass"; anything of Crosby, Stills & Nash, or Creedance Clearwater Revival -- just a thought. I wish Ron could make me up a tape of some of the old goodies from 1966-68. I know he's got some good stuff.
We've got rats in our hooch and the damn things are driving me crazy. I'm sorely tempted to open up on the little bastards with my .45, but I think lifers might frown on that. Pity.
I really don't have much for news (do I ever?) but I know how much I look forward to letters so...
Keep the faith baby.
Love,Terry
P.S. You must read Nov. 9 Life. That is Vietnam!
We're rained in again. I should have gone in on stand down two days ago, but now who knows? This damned hill is just too far out to be resupplied or reinforced during monsoon. You'd think higher higher would have realized that by now. You see, Mary Ann is one of the farthest Fire Support Bases and it's in the middle of a mountain range to boot. Mary Ann is some big SNAFU, but I guess I've been in the Army long enough not to expect anything different.
I sure hope you got the tapes and figured out how to use them. I still haven't heard anything on my guitar. Of course, we've been cut off from Chu Lai for four days now, so that could explain it. I've got an idea even Chu Lai is having troubles. It's been hit by two tropical storms in the last month.
I'm afraid my men don't care too much for me. I guess they liked the old squad leader pretty well and resent my taking his place. Also, there are the pot heads who used to come over to Three Gun to "pass the bowl." I've brought an end to that. I'd like to be liked, but it's got to be on my terms. I have certain responsibilities as a squad leader.
As a matter of fact, it's been such a hassle lately that I've been considering going back to the bush. Don't worry, I doubt if it will come to that, and if it does it wouldn't be until after monsoon. Impetuous yes -- stupid no.
There is a new policy going into effect this month. If you have more than four months in country, and less than eight, you are eligible for a two weak leave back to the world. The only catch is, you have to pay your own way. R&R is still possible with this leave. My only thought is I might not come back to this sorry place if I got back to the world. Guys who have already been on stand down say the PX in Chu Lai is sold out of just about everything and due to the weather has not been restocked. Maybe I won't get a camera after all.
Some of the guys on the bunker line caught a mouse deer that was tangled in the wire last week. She (it was a doe) was only about twelve inches high. I remember reading about them in that Frank Buck book when I was a kid, so it was sort of cool to really see one.
Say, you know I could dig some tapes for Christmas. Tapes I'd like include: anything of Clancy Bros. (I doubt if you can find anything); Rolling Stones -- "High Tide & Green Grass"; anything of Crosby, Stills & Nash, or Creedance Clearwater Revival -- just a thought. I wish Ron could make me up a tape of some of the old goodies from 1966-68. I know he's got some good stuff.
We've got rats in our hooch and the damn things are driving me crazy. I'm sorely tempted to open up on the little bastards with my .45, but I think lifers might frown on that. Pity.
I really don't have much for news (do I ever?) but I know how much I look forward to letters so...
Keep the faith baby.
Love,Terry
P.S. You must read Nov. 9 Life. That is Vietnam!
25 NOV, 1970Like hi, Mama Bear!
I received the tapes from you and Püppi day before yesterday, and I wanted to thank you both. I guess you know how good it is to hear a familiar voice so far away. I was able to play the tapes, but I'm afraid it may be a while before I can record a reply for you. Our generator died about a week ago and has not been fixed or replaced (that's the Army for you). My batteries are just about dead, so I guess I'll have to wait until we get power. Anyway, I have a bad cold, so maybe it's just as well.
My guitar arrived the last day I was in Chu Lai, and I picked it up. It arrived safely. You know it's sort of strange to think I've had that guitar everywhere I've gone in the Army.
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Last year at this time I was in Ft. Benning wishing I was home. This year... well, I guess there's no point in thinking about it. With the holiday season getting underway I can't help thinking about home though.
I also received a Christmas tree. I presume it was from you, but it had been opened and the wrapping was gone.
I received the tapes from you and Püppi day before yesterday, and I wanted to thank you both. I guess you know how good it is to hear a familiar voice so far away. I was able to play the tapes, but I'm afraid it may be a while before I can record a reply for you. Our generator died about a week ago and has not been fixed or replaced (that's the Army for you). My batteries are just about dead, so I guess I'll have to wait until we get power. Anyway, I have a bad cold, so maybe it's just as well.
My guitar arrived the last day I was in Chu Lai, and I picked it up. It arrived safely. You know it's sort of strange to think I've had that guitar everywhere I've gone in the Army.
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Last year at this time I was in Ft. Benning wishing I was home. This year... well, I guess there's no point in thinking about it. With the holiday season getting underway I can't help thinking about home though.
I also received a Christmas tree. I presume it was from you, but it had been opened and the wrapping was gone.
26 NOV, 1980 -- Thanksgiving
I couldn't finish this yesterday as it got dark and we are still without power.
When I woke up this morning I said to myself, "Well, Smith, what the hell have you got to be thankful about. You're in Vietnam." Then I thought about Wayne and the rest of the guys still out in the bush, and I decided I did have something to give thanks for. I have a (almost) dry hooch, hot meals (we even had turkey) and a relatively pleasant job. It could be worse. So while everyone around me is bitching about Thanksgiving in Vietnam, I think of the time I spent in the bush and I give thanks.
I received two letters I didn't expect today. One (a card) from Janean -- nothing special, and the other a long letter from Mary Diem. I don't know why Mary's letters cheer me up so, but they do. You might tell her that next time you see her.
I bought a 35 mm camera from one of the guys in the four deuce section -- Lou Gallob. I went to NCO school with him. Anyway, what I need now is some film so I can take color prints. I have some slide film, but that's not real cool since I don't have a slide projector. I don't know if you can buy pre-paid mailers or not (we get them in Chu Lai) but, if possible, send some as it will be a while before I get to the rear.
I am anxious to try out my new camera. It should be a definite improvement over the Polaroid. I'll soon find out. To keep you happy in the meantime I'll include some snapshots.
I have a problem (don't I always?). I have a man who is my gunner, and a damn good one. He's a soul brother, not that it makes a difference, and probably the best worker in the squad. The problem -- he hates my guts and wants to be squad leader in my place. I don't know what to do about it -- guess I'll just have to live with him and hope he doesn't put a frag under my bunk (I'm not terribly worried).
I enclosed a note for Buddy.
Would you believe I lost my address book? All those wonderful names, addresses, telephone numbers and measurements lost forever. Argh!! It is to cry!
Guess I'll close for now.
Be cool, and keep the faith,
Terry
When the power of love becomes greater than the love of power there will be no war.
I couldn't finish this yesterday as it got dark and we are still without power.
When I woke up this morning I said to myself, "Well, Smith, what the hell have you got to be thankful about. You're in Vietnam." Then I thought about Wayne and the rest of the guys still out in the bush, and I decided I did have something to give thanks for. I have a (almost) dry hooch, hot meals (we even had turkey) and a relatively pleasant job. It could be worse. So while everyone around me is bitching about Thanksgiving in Vietnam, I think of the time I spent in the bush and I give thanks.
I received two letters I didn't expect today. One (a card) from Janean -- nothing special, and the other a long letter from Mary Diem. I don't know why Mary's letters cheer me up so, but they do. You might tell her that next time you see her.
I bought a 35 mm camera from one of the guys in the four deuce section -- Lou Gallob. I went to NCO school with him. Anyway, what I need now is some film so I can take color prints. I have some slide film, but that's not real cool since I don't have a slide projector. I don't know if you can buy pre-paid mailers or not (we get them in Chu Lai) but, if possible, send some as it will be a while before I get to the rear.
I am anxious to try out my new camera. It should be a definite improvement over the Polaroid. I'll soon find out. To keep you happy in the meantime I'll include some snapshots.
I have a problem (don't I always?). I have a man who is my gunner, and a damn good one. He's a soul brother, not that it makes a difference, and probably the best worker in the squad. The problem -- he hates my guts and wants to be squad leader in my place. I don't know what to do about it -- guess I'll just have to live with him and hope he doesn't put a frag under my bunk (I'm not terribly worried).
I enclosed a note for Buddy.
Would you believe I lost my address book? All those wonderful names, addresses, telephone numbers and measurements lost forever. Argh!! It is to cry!
Guess I'll close for now.
Be cool, and keep the faith,
Terry
When the power of love becomes greater than the love of power there will be no war.
29 DEC 1970Like hi, Mama Bear!
Well, Christmas is over and I'm getting shorter all the time. I'm actually starting to feel short. I received your Christmas present intact. In fact I received all my Christmas presents intact. Thank you very much. (Someone really ought to invent a better way of saying thank you, don't you think?) I'm particularly fond of the Playboy calendar. I was going to ask for one, but forgot. The tapes were outstanding!! Did Ron pick them up? There was a note attached, but the signature was missing. Anyway, it was an outstanding selection. I wonder if you could send me more tapes from time to time (using my savings bonds of course). There was one tape in particular -- Rolling Stones "High Tide & Green Grass" that I wanted. It may be hard to find in stock, but I'm sure Victor Music could order it.
I hope you enjoy the tape I sent. I'm afraid a little "barracks language" slipped in, but I got tired of censoring the blasted thing. I'm sure it's nothing you haven't heard before, and after a while over here it becomes a normal speech pattern. It would be nice to send Püppi a separate "personal" tape, but I would really be strapped for things to say. At the moment I'm working on a tape for Mary D., and it's a real hassle. She doesn't realize what she is getting into by asking for some songs. Did you let her listen to my other tapes? It's funny -- I value a letter from her so much. Maybe it's because her letters are so few and far between, or maybe because she doesn't expect anything from me but friendship. She's a hell of a nice girl, but then so are Püppi and Nancy (and the rest of the chickies).
I'm working on a way to get an R&R to Sidney in January. One of the guys in the section got a drop and now no longer wants his R&R. I'd like to talk to Top about it, but he's in the rear. I'll keep you posted.
Would you believe I got a Christmas card from the former Jackie Mayne -- Mrs. Denner. She moved somewhere down on Washington. The former Miss Linda Lee Wilson -- Mrs. Something or other has returned to Madison so she has her old playmate back. I am a bit leery of writing to married women -- especially in view of my previous relationship with said young ladies.
Stand down is scheduled for January 6. Maybe if I can get the R&R in January I can sham for a whole month. One can hope. This stand down better be an improvement over the last one. Last time the PX was virtually empty.
We had nice weather last week, but it started raining day before yesterday and the end is not in sight. Christmas in Vietnam is not Christmas. Well, I'll never have to do it again. I've still got New Years ahead of me but that won't bother me as I was never that big on New Years. There's something about spending holidays away from home... Strange, they didn't mean so much when I was home. After New Years I'll really start to feel short. Who knows, I might even get a drop.
I sent a tape to Ron a few days ago. It was sort of strange as the squad leader from One Gun harassed me all through the second side.
My boils have been driving me insane. It started with one on the right side of my neck. That one disappeared and was replaced by one on the left side, then two, then three, and four. At one time I had four going strong on one place and a fifth on the way. Now I just have one bad one which the medics have cut and packed. I hope that's the end of it. Before coming to this Godforsaken place I never had a boil.
S'pose I'd best mosey on back to the hooch. More Later.
Keep the Faith Baby,
Luv, Terry
Vietnam -- Love it or leave it!
Well, Christmas is over and I'm getting shorter all the time. I'm actually starting to feel short. I received your Christmas present intact. In fact I received all my Christmas presents intact. Thank you very much. (Someone really ought to invent a better way of saying thank you, don't you think?) I'm particularly fond of the Playboy calendar. I was going to ask for one, but forgot. The tapes were outstanding!! Did Ron pick them up? There was a note attached, but the signature was missing. Anyway, it was an outstanding selection. I wonder if you could send me more tapes from time to time (using my savings bonds of course). There was one tape in particular -- Rolling Stones "High Tide & Green Grass" that I wanted. It may be hard to find in stock, but I'm sure Victor Music could order it.
I hope you enjoy the tape I sent. I'm afraid a little "barracks language" slipped in, but I got tired of censoring the blasted thing. I'm sure it's nothing you haven't heard before, and after a while over here it becomes a normal speech pattern. It would be nice to send Püppi a separate "personal" tape, but I would really be strapped for things to say. At the moment I'm working on a tape for Mary D., and it's a real hassle. She doesn't realize what she is getting into by asking for some songs. Did you let her listen to my other tapes? It's funny -- I value a letter from her so much. Maybe it's because her letters are so few and far between, or maybe because she doesn't expect anything from me but friendship. She's a hell of a nice girl, but then so are Püppi and Nancy (and the rest of the chickies).
I'm working on a way to get an R&R to Sidney in January. One of the guys in the section got a drop and now no longer wants his R&R. I'd like to talk to Top about it, but he's in the rear. I'll keep you posted.
Would you believe I got a Christmas card from the former Jackie Mayne -- Mrs. Denner. She moved somewhere down on Washington. The former Miss Linda Lee Wilson -- Mrs. Something or other has returned to Madison so she has her old playmate back. I am a bit leery of writing to married women -- especially in view of my previous relationship with said young ladies.
Stand down is scheduled for January 6. Maybe if I can get the R&R in January I can sham for a whole month. One can hope. This stand down better be an improvement over the last one. Last time the PX was virtually empty.
We had nice weather last week, but it started raining day before yesterday and the end is not in sight. Christmas in Vietnam is not Christmas. Well, I'll never have to do it again. I've still got New Years ahead of me but that won't bother me as I was never that big on New Years. There's something about spending holidays away from home... Strange, they didn't mean so much when I was home. After New Years I'll really start to feel short. Who knows, I might even get a drop.
I sent a tape to Ron a few days ago. It was sort of strange as the squad leader from One Gun harassed me all through the second side.
My boils have been driving me insane. It started with one on the right side of my neck. That one disappeared and was replaced by one on the left side, then two, then three, and four. At one time I had four going strong on one place and a fifth on the way. Now I just have one bad one which the medics have cut and packed. I hope that's the end of it. Before coming to this Godforsaken place I never had a boil.
S'pose I'd best mosey on back to the hooch. More Later.
Keep the Faith Baby,
Luv, Terry
Vietnam -- Love it or leave it!
22 FEB 1971Like hi, Mama Bear,
I suppose you are either pretty worried or pretty angry right about now. Well, I am alive and in one piece, so I guess that clears one count. As for the second count -- what can I say?
This won't be much of a letter I'm afraid. Things have been going badly and are getting steadily worse.
I discovered on R&R that I am not ready to associate with civilians yet. I was disgusted with the pimps, perverts, and prostitutes that flock around GIs. My nerves went completely to pieces. People put me up so tight I couldn't unwind. The chick I was with wanted me to turn myself in to a hospital before I had a nervous breakdown.
Wayne is dead. In the short time I knew him we became friends every bit as close as Ron and I. There is something about combat that binds men together.
Three and Four Gun are now on a "mini base" north and west of Mary Ann. I have scrounged enough ammunition, magazines, frags and claymores for my squad to outfit a platoon of grunts. I guess the idea of the operation is to provide close fire support for a line company. Originally it was supposed to have been Charlie Company, but Charlie ran into beaucoup dinks only four clicks off of Mary Ann, so...
Yesterday a platoon of Bravo Company spotted five dinks in the open. Three Gun fired. According to the forward observer, the dinks started running when the first round burst. Ironically they ran away from that one and ran straight into another as we fired for effect. Five ran in -- one ran out. Four for Wayne. Not enough.
The problem with my gunner is growing worse each day. He refuses to obey my orders, and in general makes life miserable. I've talked to the Lt. several times about him but he says there's nothing he can do. Sid is undoubtedly the most hated man in the squad and probably in the whole section. Even the soul brothers can't get along with him. The man seems to thrive on hate. I've never seen anything like it. I had three drawings done last time I was in Chu Lai, and will be sending them as soon as I get off this mission. One is done on red velvet and the other two are on paper. I will mail them to you, and you can take first pick (I think the ones on paper are better than the one on velvet, but you may not agree). Dad and Püppi are to have the other two. Fair enough?Let’s see if I can think of something pleasant. I realize that this letter so far has been somewhat less than that. It’s a rather nice day. About 85 degrees, and clear. The mosquitoes aren’t too bad. Hmm. We haven’t been shot at today. I guess that’s about it. A water patrol just left. They’ll be going down to the river to fill canteens, and maybe even swim. I’d go, but I know if I did this letter will never get finished. It sure would be nice though.I met a man from Ishpeming yesterday. He lives out in Deer Lake. His name is Dave Hebing (I think that’s how he spells it) and he says he knows or knew Rosenbaums, Ravelys, Lindruses, James’ & Fountains. I guess his mother is a pretty close friend of Donna Fountain (big deal huh?). His father is Jerry Hebing and works at what used to be Valmetes Chevy. Oh yes, he also knows Roberts and Swardinis (according to him Kathy turned out to be an outstanding chick). Maybe you or dad would have known his family. I understand they were active bridge players.What did I just say about the bugs not being bad? Aaargh! I got a real nice letter from Mary D. the other day. She sent me a picture. I wonder if she showed it to you? Looks like she lost quite a bit of weight. Anyway, it was an outstanding snapshot, and come to think of it, I think I’ll write and tell her so as soon as I’m done talking to you. I also got a letter from Janean (same day) telling me she is getting engaged and babbling on about how happy she is. She’s only known the dude for 2 months, but as she put it, “I’ve been hurt by love in the past, and I’m not going to let Mike get away now.” I don’t know why she’s telling me. I loved that chick once, and I guess I haven’t completely gotten over her yet. But so help me God if that silly little bitch sends me a wedding invitation while I’m over here I’m going to send her a bamboo viper – gift wrapped. So I got a medal huh? Outstanding. That, and a dime, will buy me a cup of coffee. Incidentally, tell Püppi it’s “commendation” not “condemnation." The only think I need is 35mm film. Chu Lai never has any. I have several exposed rolls which I’ll send as soon as I can. Use my savings bonds to pay for it. Have at least 2 copies so you can keep a set, and send a set to me.I’m going to get this ready for the bird. More Later. Love,TerryDulce et decorem est pro patria moriBullshit!
I suppose you are either pretty worried or pretty angry right about now. Well, I am alive and in one piece, so I guess that clears one count. As for the second count -- what can I say?
This won't be much of a letter I'm afraid. Things have been going badly and are getting steadily worse.
I discovered on R&R that I am not ready to associate with civilians yet. I was disgusted with the pimps, perverts, and prostitutes that flock around GIs. My nerves went completely to pieces. People put me up so tight I couldn't unwind. The chick I was with wanted me to turn myself in to a hospital before I had a nervous breakdown.
Wayne is dead. In the short time I knew him we became friends every bit as close as Ron and I. There is something about combat that binds men together.
Three and Four Gun are now on a "mini base" north and west of Mary Ann. I have scrounged enough ammunition, magazines, frags and claymores for my squad to outfit a platoon of grunts. I guess the idea of the operation is to provide close fire support for a line company. Originally it was supposed to have been Charlie Company, but Charlie ran into beaucoup dinks only four clicks off of Mary Ann, so...
Yesterday a platoon of Bravo Company spotted five dinks in the open. Three Gun fired. According to the forward observer, the dinks started running when the first round burst. Ironically they ran away from that one and ran straight into another as we fired for effect. Five ran in -- one ran out. Four for Wayne. Not enough.
The problem with my gunner is growing worse each day. He refuses to obey my orders, and in general makes life miserable. I've talked to the Lt. several times about him but he says there's nothing he can do. Sid is undoubtedly the most hated man in the squad and probably in the whole section. Even the soul brothers can't get along with him. The man seems to thrive on hate. I've never seen anything like it. I had three drawings done last time I was in Chu Lai, and will be sending them as soon as I get off this mission. One is done on red velvet and the other two are on paper. I will mail them to you, and you can take first pick (I think the ones on paper are better than the one on velvet, but you may not agree). Dad and Püppi are to have the other two. Fair enough?Let’s see if I can think of something pleasant. I realize that this letter so far has been somewhat less than that. It’s a rather nice day. About 85 degrees, and clear. The mosquitoes aren’t too bad. Hmm. We haven’t been shot at today. I guess that’s about it. A water patrol just left. They’ll be going down to the river to fill canteens, and maybe even swim. I’d go, but I know if I did this letter will never get finished. It sure would be nice though.I met a man from Ishpeming yesterday. He lives out in Deer Lake. His name is Dave Hebing (I think that’s how he spells it) and he says he knows or knew Rosenbaums, Ravelys, Lindruses, James’ & Fountains. I guess his mother is a pretty close friend of Donna Fountain (big deal huh?). His father is Jerry Hebing and works at what used to be Valmetes Chevy. Oh yes, he also knows Roberts and Swardinis (according to him Kathy turned out to be an outstanding chick). Maybe you or dad would have known his family. I understand they were active bridge players.What did I just say about the bugs not being bad? Aaargh! I got a real nice letter from Mary D. the other day. She sent me a picture. I wonder if she showed it to you? Looks like she lost quite a bit of weight. Anyway, it was an outstanding snapshot, and come to think of it, I think I’ll write and tell her so as soon as I’m done talking to you. I also got a letter from Janean (same day) telling me she is getting engaged and babbling on about how happy she is. She’s only known the dude for 2 months, but as she put it, “I’ve been hurt by love in the past, and I’m not going to let Mike get away now.” I don’t know why she’s telling me. I loved that chick once, and I guess I haven’t completely gotten over her yet. But so help me God if that silly little bitch sends me a wedding invitation while I’m over here I’m going to send her a bamboo viper – gift wrapped. So I got a medal huh? Outstanding. That, and a dime, will buy me a cup of coffee. Incidentally, tell Püppi it’s “commendation” not “condemnation." The only think I need is 35mm film. Chu Lai never has any. I have several exposed rolls which I’ll send as soon as I can. Use my savings bonds to pay for it. Have at least 2 copies so you can keep a set, and send a set to me.I’m going to get this ready for the bird. More Later. Love,TerryDulce et decorem est pro patria moriBullshit!
14 MAR 1971
Like hi, Mama Bear,
I received your package yesterday, and thought I’d take the opportunity to thank you and bring you up to date on what’s been going on.
We are back from LZ Kathy (our mini fire base), but now we are getting ready to move out again. This time the whole battalion is moving. In about 2 weeks we will move to LZ Mildred (an old LZ about eight clicks from here). Mildred has been abandoned for about 6 months, but I guess higher higher wants to reopen it. At any rate our stay on Mildred will be brief – 3 or 4 weeks. Towards the end of April we will be moving up north near DaNang. Rumor has it our new home will be LZ Baldy – formerly the home of the 101st Airborne and the Marines. For me the move is more of a hassle than it’s worth. By the time we get settled I will be so short I could break a leg stepping off a piece of paper.
I will be sending my guitar home soon. In the first place it will be too much of a hassle to take it with me, and in the second it’s broken. It got too close to the gun during a fire mission and two or more of the braces inside have been knocked loose. I think Ron can fix it. In fact if I had the proper glue perhaps I could fix it.
We just fired a fairly large fire mission (one hundred rounds) of tactical CS (tear gas). Now the damn stuff is blowing back at us. That’s all I need to really make my day. I guess I’d better see if I can find my protective mask. Too Late!!!
There has been quite a turnover in my gun crew lately. I lost Sid – the soul brother who was giving me so much trouble, and also Dick Drum, whom I considered my best man. In return I got Dorman, a soul brother who had a very bad reputation as a trouble maker. None of the other guns would take him, but Three Gun is a catch-all for the drunks, dope smokers, trouble makers and misfits (it’s also the best damn gun in the four deuce section) so they gave him to me. Surprisingly enough (or perhaps not so surprising) Dorman fit right in. It’s ironic the way they give me what no one else will take and Three Gun still comes out on top.
I also have Mark Swantes, from Milwaukee. Mark looks exactly like Mark Gerlach from Boscobel. It’s almost frightening – the resemblance. Last and least, Emanuel Blakely, as sergeant E-5 type. He’s the dud who replaced me as FO with Charley Company. How he made sergeant is beyond me as he is entirely incapable of an original thought. He’s the type that if you gave him a ten minute smoke break you’d have to retrain him.
Say, that tape you sent me – Rolling Stones High Tide and Green Grass – is outstanding! Thank you ever so largely. Would you believe Grandma Smith sent me two tapes? Dig this – Nat King Cole and Montavoni. I guess there’s really nothing wrong with either tape, but why couldn’t she just ask me what kind of music I’d like? Maybe I’ll send them to you.
When I get to Chu Lai, or should I say if I get to Chu Lai, I am going to order a combination tape deck (cassette type) and stereo through Pacex Mail Order House. It will be shipped directly home. If you can find anyone who wants to buy the stereo in my room feel free to sell it. Other possibilities would be giving it to dad or putting it downstairs.
If we could find another place to keep Shane I’d sort of like to finish off the basement when I get home. It would make an outstanding den or study. I don’t know how much it would cost, but it would certainly enhance the value of the house. What do you think? Maybe Buddy would have some idea of the cost.
I had a letter from Ron not too long ago, They really think a lot of you (so do I). From the letter I guess his band is doing real well. Ron mentioned something about taking the band on tour this summer.
Do you ever go down to see Big John anymore? That is one of my first stops when I get home. The first is McDonalds.
Well, I’m about talked out for now. Say hi to Buddy, Milty, and anyone else I know for sure, also the munchkins at the store (got any cute ones who would consider living in sin with me?)
Luv,TerryOh, by the way, I read your horoscope and thought you might be interested to know that on the 23rd of next month you will be approached by a neo-nazi bull dyke who will attempt to sell you a series of 8 x 10 glossy photographs of Spiro T. Agnew in five provocative poses, a miscellaneous collection of whips, and a used grizzly bear.
8 APRIL 1971
Like hi, Mama Bear!
I’m sure by now you’ve heard about Mary Ann being hit. It’s not a subject I’d care to discuss in a letter, so I won’t dwell upon it. The important thing is – I’m all right.
It would be an understatement to say I was surprised to hear about dad. I was downright shook. I guess I shouldn’t have been though. It was only a matter of time. What a blow this will be to his practice! I’ve never seen a man with such incredibly bad luck. I wrote him a letter yesterday, but I don’t have the sort of news to cheer a man up. Under the circumstances, I figured any news would be good news. I’m still not clear on how badly he was hurt. If Püppi is to be believed, he is coming along fine and is “looking better every day.” On the other hand, his mother puts him on death’s doorstep. Oh, I know how she exaggerates, but it still clouds the situation. What you should have done as soon as you found out about the accident is called the Red Cross (too late now). It is entirely possible that I would have been sent home. Please keep me posted. It’s a real bitch to fight a war when you’re worried about the home front.
Püppi said you had the pictures developed. I am anxious to see them. She said the black and white turned out rather badly, but the color prints were good. I have heard that 35mm color always turns out much better than the black and white. On the other hand, it could have been FUBAR due to my inexperience with the camera. If I could see the pictures perhaps I could find out what I’ve been doing wrong.
The big move to DaNang is scheduled for this month although the exact date is classified information. I imagine the newspapers will say that we were “run off the hill,” but this move has been planned for the last 4 to 6 months. DeNang is supposed to be pretty good duty, but it’s bound to mean an increase in lifer B.S. No sweat GI. I won’t be there that long. Do you realize I have 75 days left without a drop? I might get a drop, but I don’t like to count on things like that.Mama Bear, there is a rather painful subject which we’d better discuss right now. I mentioned it to Püppi in my last letter, so she may have already told you. Here goes. I fully expect when I get home that I will be expected to get a job and start saving for college and a car. Well, that’s groovy, but I’ve been stuck in the “Green Machine” for damn near two years, and I’m just not ready to settle down quietly. Along about the fourth of July I will be heading to Atlanta, GA, with a rucksack and a guitar. Steve Bear and I have made plans for a combat assault on most of the United States. If all goes well I should be back in Madison before the fall semester. At that time I will decide on either school or a job. I know this is unexpected, and perhaps a disappointment, but if I don’t do it now, the feeling will build. Someday, maybe in one year, maybe in five, I will drop everything and take to the road. By then I might have more to lose than I do now. It’s just something I have to do. Can you dig it? I told Ron of my plans, and I think he’ll understand, and maybe could explain it to you the way I would if I were home. Enough of that for now.
I don’t have a hell of a lot of time for letter writing anymore. To put it mildly, it’s a hassle around here. War is our business, and business is good. Howsomever, I want Buddy to know how much I enjoy hearing from him. I’m going to try to get off a letter to him in the near future, but there is no way of telling how “near” it will be. Give him my best anyway.
Did my renewal for my driver’s license ever come? I’d hate to take another road test just because the Motor Vehicle Dept. fouled up.
I’d better duff up to the mess hall and get some chop chop before they run out of milk.
Luv & Stuff“The Cub”“Who me? I like it here!”
22 APRIL 1971Like hi, Mama Bear!I’m in DeNang now, but I don’t know for how long. No one knows what to do with the Four Deuce section. We might stay here in the compound or we might be sent to an outpost with our tubes. Personally I’d just as soon go to an outpost. The lifers around here are something else. Spit shined boots, haircuts, pressed fatigues, daily inspections. It’s really spooky! There are beaucoup Marines up here. In fact, we are taking over their compound. So far there have been on brawls. In fact, from what I’ve seen, they seem all right, although a bit on the lifer side.I’ve been taking beaucoup pictures lately, but that’s going to end. (I paid for three rolls of film the other day -- $37.00!) I mean, I’ll only be in Vietnam once (thank God!) so I might as well make the most of it.Oh yeah, while I think of it I have a new APO – SF 96256. The rest of my address remains the same. You might spread the word, although I guess mail will reach me (at least for a while) at my old APO.By the time you get this letter Ron should have received a package containing my .45 Please call him and find out. If he has received it ask him to bring it over or put it in a safe spot. I didn’t use my own address on it so if the CID gets uptight I doubt if they can trace it, although they might try to hassle Ron. You might ask dad how much lime in Leavenworth I can expect if they do (also if they can do anything to Ron). But seriously folks, I don’t expect any trouble. Just tell Ron to be cool and if he has not already opened the package – not to do so.DeNang is a lot hotter than Chu Lai. At least it sure seems that way. Maybe it’s just the hot season starting up, but at least in Chu Lai we got a sea breeze. We are about three miles from the water here, and it might as well be 300. I’m just glad I don’t have much more time to do over here. (Still no word on a drop, but I’m getting short even without one.)I wonder if you could give me dad’s address again, as I seem to have misplaced it. I hope I can find it or he writes soon. Letters take so long to go back and forth. Your letters take from five to seven days, but mine must take about two weeks. Speaking of dad – how is he? Is his hip socket broken or “shattered”? Yep, you guessed it, I had another letter from the General’s Lady. Wow, doesn’t she ever think of anything encouraging to say? I wish he could be up and around by the time I get him, but it doesn’t look that way.Have you received my guitar yet? I sent it about two weeks ago. I packed it with a poncho liner and a bush hat (contraband items). I wonder if it got through. Apparently one bush hat made it as Püppi sent some pictures of dad wearing it. I really ought to quit mailing government property. They’re going to hang me yet. Damn! And with my lawyer laid up in the hospital too.Mail Call! I just read my Boscobel Dial and, as usual, learned absolutely nothing. I guess I really shouldn’t badmouth the Dial. The last issue told me about dad’s accident and Janean’s engagement. Yes sir, a real winner! This time I read about John Bohlman getting beat over the head by a cop during a riot on the Madison Campus. I didn’t know you were having riots again.I suppose I ought to get ready for guard mount. Top takes great delight in giving me dirty details and guard duty, and today he really outdid himself by giving me both. “Ve haf vays of dealing viss his kind.”Well, I’d best duff now. Got to shine my comboot bats and clean my Mike one-six bullet launcher. Give my love to Püppi and say hi to Buddy, Milty, the munchkins at the store, and anyone else I may happen to know.Luv,Terry