A Tribute Page For Our Gimlets Who Have Passed On
Jesse Charmicheal , was in the US Navy OPCON to the 3-21 IN in Chu Lia 1967-69
"Click on his photo for full obituary"
Jim Craig, B-3/21 died on top of LZ Mary Ann on 24 April 2012.
"Click on his photo for full obituary"
David H. Colby, served in Vietnam in 1966-67. He was with Co A,3/21, 196th. David passed on January 7, 2011.
"Click on his name for full obituary"
Robert Lee Horton, age 62 of Topeka, passed away Tuesday, July 3, 2012 after he lost his battle with cancer. He served in the Vietnam War with Bravo Company, 11th Infantry Brigade from 1968-1969, "Please click on Roberts photo for full obituary"
Freddie DePriest, 3-21, 70-71, LZ Center passed away to the ravages of cancer. Calling will be at Edmonds Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton, IN from 11am - 1 pm on Tuesday, 6 Sep. 2011 Freddy A. DePriest, age 62, of Burns Harbor, passed away on Saturday, August 27, 2011 at the VNA Hospice Center in Valparaiso.
Freddy was born August 3, 1949 to Marion and Maybelle (Russell) DePriest.
On Oct. 3, 1995 he married Judith Ann DePriest, who preceded him in death.
Freddy is survived by his daughter, Andrea M. DePriest of Wolcott, Ind.; son, Brian A. DePriest of South Bend, Ind.; step children, April Flores, Candy Smith, Lisa Smith and Mike Sawyer; brother, Carl (Jerilynn) DePriest of Medford, Oregon; sisters, Teresa (Steven) Isenblatter of Michigan City, Ind. and Linda Campbell of Davis, Calif.; grandchildren, Shelby and Sydney Palen, Chadd VanDusen, Olivia, Clara and Baylan DePriest; several step grandchildren and many loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Judy and brothers, Frank, Jerry, Randy and Russell DePriest.
Freddy was a highly decorated U.S. Army Veteran, earning a Purple Heart for his service during the Vietnam War. He worked for Arcelor Mittal Steel for over 39 years. He enjoyed playing golf, and was a great fan of sports, often rooting for the Cubs, Bears and Wolverines or Jeff Gordon during Nascar.
Sgt. Robert Irving Berry, 80, C 3-21 IN of East Fort Myers, FL passed away at his home on Saturday July 9, 2011. He served 22 years in the Marine and the Army and received the Bronze Star in Vietnam. He had throat cancer and other medical problems. Robert Irving Berry, 80 of East Fort Myers, FL passed away at his home on Saturday, July 9, 2011. He was born on July 22, 1930 to John and Carolyn Berry. Mr. Berry was a veteran of the Korean War and Vietnam War serving in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marine Corps. During the Vietnam War as a Platoon Sergeant he was awarded the Bronze Star with "V" Devise for his heroism in a military operation against hostile forces. He was also awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Purple Heart and the Gallantry Cross. After 22 years of service he retired and moved to Fort Myers in 1976 from Germany. Mr. Berry was an American Hero. He enjoyed playing and watching football and hunting with his dogs. He was a member of Grace Bible Church in Buckingham, and N.R.A. Instructor and Gun collector.
He is survived by his loving family including his wife of 34 years, Elfriede Berry; son Mike (Andra) Berry of Annapolis, MD; granddaughters, Ariel and Olivia.
Michael Fenner, 59, of Springfield, OH, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on April 14, 2008. Mike served with B 3-21 IN 1968-69.
Sgt Evert Kyle, 1st Squad, 1st Platoon, A Company, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry (Gimlets) 24th ID 1951 to 1953 passed away in July 2010. He served on the line in the Kumsong Valley until the Division was pulled from the line and sent to Japan for Occupation Duty.
Donald B. Montgomery, served with the 21st Infantry Regiment in Korea 51 – 52. Nor further details.
Major Jay E. Pry (USA Ret) passed away at 0320 hrs May 1, 2011. He was 72 years old. Jay was a charter member of the Gimlet Association 21st Infantry Regiment and also served on the board for a while. Jay served the Army and Nation Honorably from November 1955 to December 1975 when he retired. He served as Battalion S-4 and HHC Commander 1-21 IN 1966 to 1968. He served as S-3 Air, Charlie Tigers CO and Echo CO from 68 to 69. Jay was awarded the Gimlet Stick while assigned to the 1-21 IN. Services for Jay will be held on Tuesday, May 17, as follows: 1. 10 a.m. Mass at San Diego Mission; 2. Burial at Miramar; 3. Reception back at the Mission The Mission is located at 10818 San Diego Mission Road in San Diego. Directions are available on its website (full name is "Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala"). Jay volunteered there as a docent. Miramar Cemetery just recently opened, even though it was scheduled to open September 2011. The family has arranged for Jay's remains to be transported in a horse-drawn carriage, and, of course, there will be a 21-gun salute. Cemetery address: Miramar National Cemetery 5795 Nobel Drive San Diego, CA 92122 Condolences to his wife, Dorothy, and family as well as all who served with this fine soldier and man, you will forever remain in our hearts, Jay. The association hopes that some of his Gimlet Brothers will be in attendance for internment.
COL Ralph E Culbertson USA RET 3-21 IN 1948 to 50 Japan and Korea.
COL Carl F. Bernard USA RET Love Company 3-21 IN Korea/TFS.
He was awarded the DSC for action in Korea.
CARL FRANKLIN BERNARD Col., USA (Ret.) Of Ft. Belvoir, Va died on Tuesday, March 4, 2008. Husband of Edith H. Bernard; father of Mary Martha Santos, Franklin Hugh Bernard, Joel Pierre Bernard and Jacques Thomas Bernard; grandfather of Jared Santos, Jeremy Santos, Jessica Santos, Robert Bernard and James Bernard. Friends may call the Demaine Funeral Home, 520 S. Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, where the family will be present on Sunday, March 9, 2008 from 3 to 5 p.m. Funeral services with Full Military Honors will be held on Wednesday, June 4, 2008 at 11 a.m. Interment to follow at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Habitat for Humanity.
Col. Carl F. Bernard (USA Ret.), 81, died at his home at Fort Belvoir on March 4, 2008. A decorated combat veteran, he died of a stroke. He was born in 1926 in Borger, Texas. Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Edith Jouanin Bernard; sons Hugh Bernard of Annapolis, Joel Bernard of Alexandria, and Jacques Bernard of Vienna; daughter Mary Bernard Santos of Jacksonville, Florida; five grandchildren; and a sister and five brothers.
He joined the Marine Corps in 1944 and served in the Pacific and china as an enlisted man. He joined the Army in 1947. In 1948 he was made an honorary member of the 555th, an African American parachute regiment known as "Triple Nickel." He was commissioned an infantry officer in 1949.
At the outbreak of the Korean War, he was a platoon leader with L Company, 21st Infantry, receiving the Distinguished Service Cross for action at Chochiwon, Korea. The citation said, "Lieutenant Bernard's aggressive attacks on the enemy tanks and machine-gun emplacement inspired the outnumbered men of his command to fight with him, until out of ammunition, against overwhelming odds."
After Korea, his military career took him to Germany, Ranger School at Ft. Benning, Georgia, and the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He also helped develop the curriculum at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare School at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
In 1960 he was assigned to Laos as part of the White Star Mobile Training Teams. Colonel Bernard In 1972 he was assigned the task of restructuring the Army ROTC program at the University of California at Berkeley. He retired from the Army in 1978, after which he ran a consulting firm that specialized in Army readiness and U.S./French military relations.
Comments from Volney Warner (life member 24th Infantry Division Association) "I lost a warrior friend yesterday. Carl Bernard died comfortably in his bed reading a book on Korea. Synopsis of our early association follows, as done for his children and in preparation for my eulogy at his funeral. Carl was indeed the bravest combat soldier that I have ever known and a dear friend for many years worth remembering. Great men also die! - Vol Warner
Korea - I reported in to L Company, 21st Infantry as a replacement 2nd Lieutenant fresh out of West Point at the end August 1950. Carl had already distinguished himself in battle in July as one of the few survivors of Task Force Smith. As 1st Lieutenant Company Exec, Carl was now tasked with fitting me and several of my classmates into the remnants of Task Force Smith, then holding a section of the Naktong Perimeter. Carl took one look at the lot of us and remarked, "The war is over. The ring knockers are here." We called him "Peep Sight" because he had broken his glasses and refused to go to the rear to get another pair. Instead, he put a thin strip of white tape across the offending lens, which obscured his vision but improved his aim.
As for weaponry, he often carried a .45 with one round in the chamber as alternative to capture. He wore a bedraggled World War II wool knit cap and sweater which he claimed, as did the Ghost Dancing Sioux before him, to be "magically bullet proofed." No bullet would ever have his name on it as long as he was so garbed. The Division MPs fined him 25 dollars in the rear area for failure to wear a steel pot, but it took an order from Ridgeway to get him to comply. Those soldiers who survived the initial North Korean onslaught with him worshipped the ground he fought on and the rest of us loved him for what he was and would follow him anywhere. The company lost about 200 soldiers mostly killed/captured and some were wounded from July 1950 to July 1951.
When Carl was sent to the rear for a break as an L-19 observer, he continued to keep track of us on the ground like an overhead mother. When the going got tough on the ground, he came forward to join the fight, even once arriving in a "borrowed" armored vehicle for added fire support. He adjusted "danger close" artillery support one day on the Chinese contesting our real estate, so close that it splattered us with hot fragments but separated their body parts and obviated our fixing bayonets.
We never had time to appropriately record his heroic efforts. Pencil and paper was in short supply in those days and the enemy just over the next hill mass. So each year those of us in L Company, plus wives who will listen to us, meet for three days somewhere to relive (and embellish) our exploits and discuss who will toast the company from the "last man standing bottle," before L Company falls in again in the Great Hereafter.
Vietnam: While working in the White House as part of Ambassador Komer and Ambassador Leonhardt's staff, I was dispatched at their direction to Vietnam to make and independent analysis of the effects of Tet 31 January 1968 on the Pacification Plan--presumably as requested by President Johnson.
Of course, I visited Carl at Hau Nghia as part of my tour of the Provinces. I arrived, briefcase in hand, for a short in-brief at the Team House, reminiscing that my good friend Reed Jensen, one of Carl's early predecessors had been killed there by the VC in 1963. After a few uncharitable, and no doubt correct, comments about the inability of the nearby US division to control the area, Carl insisted we take a tour of his domain. So we jumped in his jeep, with him driving, and started eastward along the unimproved road toward Saigon---he with his pistol, me with my briefcase.
We had proceeded no more than a mile when I noticed a wide swath through the adjacent rice paddy, crossing the road to our front obliterating past tire marks and then coursing as far as we could see toward Saigon. Carl decided to ask the adjacent Regional Force Outpost what units had gone by them in the middle of the night. They reported seeing nothing (but their radios has disappeared). Since the outpost had reported nothing, Carl was immediately suspicious that a large enemy unit had "harvested the rice" by marching through it, and threatened the locals to silence as they passed. Carl then said, "Let's go cross country and see if we can find them." I replied, "Let's call the ARVN Regiment and let them go find them, I'm just here on TDY!" I lost the argument so away we went.
About one mile later, we took some incoming AK rounds and had to dismount behind the Jeep for cover. Carl dug an M-79 (shotgun 40mm) out of the rear seat and we tried to engage, at the same time calling the Regimental Commander who appeared on the scene shortly thereafter. About four of us were standing behind the paddy barrier talking strategy when a sniper knocked down the Regimental surgeon and an NCO standing about four feet from us. I immediately got down behind the paddy dike and was amazed to see Carl and his ARVN colonel counterpart remain standing and exposed despite sporadic incoming AK fire. An ARVN fire team ran them off shortly thereafter with the Regiment in hot pursuit. Welcome to mini-Tet May 1968!
I asked Carl and the Colonel why on earth they did not take cover and get down behind the paddy dike. The Colonel's reply was that "The VC/NVA always shoot low, so if you stand tall you only get hit in the legs. If you get down, you will be shot in the head." The two of them were clearly playing "chicken." As in Korea, there never was a bullet that had Carl's name on it. Next day the battle for Cholon was begun in earnest."
Ronald Davis 3-21
COL William Wyrick USA RET 21st IN TFS Korea
COLUMBIA - Funeral Services for William E. Wyrick., Col, Army Retired, were Thursday, December 21, 2006 at Greenlawn Funeral Home, 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia with burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park Northeast with full military honors. Memorials may be made to National Parkinson Foundation, Inc. 1501 N.W. 9th Avenue / Bob Hope Road Miami FL 33136-1494 or Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens, 500 Wildlife Parkway Columbia SC 29210.
William E. “Bill” Wyrick also known as “Chief” by his comrades in arms died at his home on December 17, 2006. He was born December 20, 1924 in Skiatook Oklahoma to the late Elmer F. “Bill” Wyrick and Mildred Stevens Wyrick. He graduated from Will Rogers High School in Tulsa in 1942. He attended Oklahoma Military Academy Junior College before entering the service. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1963 and his Masters of Education from the University of South Carolina in 1975.
Col Wyrick entered the Army on June 17, 1943. He completed the Officer Candidate Course at Fort Benning Georgia in 1945; the Advanced Infantry Course, Fort Benning, in 1954; and the Associate Course at the Command and General Staff College in 1964. In addition, he completed the Airborne course and the Spanish Language Course at the Defense Language Institute in Monterrey, California. Among his assignments were: From 1949 through 1952 served as a platoon leader and then Company Commander of C company 21st Inf. Regt. 24 Inf. Div. (part of Task Force Smith); from April 1956 to April 1957, served as Chief, Ground Defense Branch, Headquarter, 12th Air Force at Ramstein AFS, Germany; from June 1957 to September 1960, was the Executive Officer for Evaluation, Infantry OCS, Ft Benning GA; from January 1963 to July 1964, was at Fort Leonard Wood MO as Commanding Officer of the 2nd and 3d Battalions, 2nd Basic Combat Training Regiment. In September 1965, he went to Santa Domingo, Dominican Republic, where he served as Chief, Army Section, MAAG; from July 1967 to July 1969, was Division Advisor, Iowa Army National Guard, in Des Moines Iowa. From August 1969 until July 1970, was Senior Advisor, ARVN Infantry School, and Inspector General, XXIV Corps in Vietnam. In September 1970, Colonel Wyrick came to Fort Jackson where he served as the Deputy Director, DPT and Executive officer, Basic Combat Training “BCT” Committee Group and later served as the Commanding Officer of the BCT Committee Group. Col Wyrick retired from the Army on July 1, 1973 after serving 30 years.
His awards and decorations include the Silver Star, awarded in Korea in 1950; the Legion of Merit, awarded in Vietnam in 1970; Bronze Star with Valor with three Oak Leaf Clusters; the Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster; the Air Force Commendation Medal; Good Conduct Medal; American Campaign Medal; Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal; World War II Victory Medal; Army of Occupation Medal for Germany and Japan; National Defense Service Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster; Korean Service Medal; UN Service Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Dominican Republic); Vietnam Service Medal; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal; Distinguished Unit Emblem; Presidential Unit Citation and the Korean Presidential Unit Citation. He was also awarded the Combat Infantryman and Parachute badges and in 1972, he was inducted into the Infantry Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame at Fort Benning GA.
Colonel Wyrick and his late wife, Nina B Murphy, continued to live in Columbia after his retirement. He earned his Masters of Education in Secondary Education from University of South Carolina in 1975 and worked at the South Carolina State Department of Education for several years. He then became the primary caregiver for his mother. He served as Past President and the Historian for the 21st Infantry Regiment Association and was a Life Member of the 24th Infantry Division Association. He was a member of the Osage tribe and the Hillside Cemetery Association. He was a 32 degree Mason affiliated with the Skiatook Masonic Lodge.
Surviving are his son, Vance (Sandra) Wyrick of Leesburg, FL; his daughters, Debbie (Bobby) Havens of West Columbia; Laurie (Robert)Taylor of Columbia; his 7 grandchildren, Matthew Wyrick, Maryann Wyrick, Krista Sanderlin-Bunnell, Brandan Clark, Stacey Taylor, John Taylor and Sarah Beth Taylor; 2 great grandchildren, Emily Wyrick and Allison Driggers; special friends, Debbi Coker and Kathryn Bascom. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Nina; his brother, Philip Wyrick and his son, Marty Sanderlin.
Carmona, Crispin, served with C 3-21 IN 1966-68.
Johnson, David, 14 Jan 2010, served in A 3-21 IN 1969-70. The demons of war and stress took its toll, and David took his life.
Gerringer, Carl, 14 Nov 2009, served with B 3-21 IN 1965-67. Carl was from Hennrietta, NY.
Bryant, Thomas, 22 Oct 2009. Tom was the platoon Sgt of Recon E 3-21 IN 1968-69. Warren Neill writes, "Tom loved his family, his men, the 196th, and coming to the reunions. We were very lucky to have had Tom with us in Buffalo. I will personally miss his phone calls when he thought I needed guidance in running the Assn. Rest in Peace brother."
Devereaux, Earl (Rocky), Oct 2010, served with the Gun Squad, A 3-21 IN 1970. Steve Hemmert writes, "Rocky passed away in Syracuse, NY. The last time we talked he told me he had prostate cancer. Please remember him in your prayers.”
Senske, Richard, 14 Jun 2009, served with B 3-21 IN 1969-70. Rich was from Alloway, NJ and suffered a massive heart attack while sitting at his kitchen table.
Lyons, Gene, 12 Jun 2009. Gene was BN S-3 NCO 3-21 IN working in the TOC on LZ Center in 1968, before assuming duties as B 3-21 IN First SGT in mid 1969. Gene was from Hardin County, KY.
Vanduine, Doug, 10 May 2009, served with C 3-21 IN 1968-69. He passed away as a result of conditions associated with his service in Vietnam. Chuck Horner writes, "Doug was a brave and fearless warrior. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him."
Hoover, George F., 21 Aug 2008, served with 1st platoon, A 3-21 IN 1965-67.
Decker, Derry, date unknown, served with 2nd platoon, D 3-21 IN 1967-68. Derry was from Pueblo, CO.
Purser, Benjamin (Chief), 28 Mar 2004, served with 3-21 IN 1968-71. His wife writes, "He served two tours earning 2 Bronze Stars and Purple Hearts. He never for got the people he served with or his time in Vietnam."
Mott, Danny Dwight, date un known, Served with C 2-1 and C 3-21 IN (Task Force Gimlet). This information came from the Americal Association Newsletter, no other info is avail able.
Powers, Paul, Chuck Hitzemann writes: Paul Powers died a month ago (Sept). Powers was the FAC who supported 3-21 IN during the '67-68 era and was on station at Nhi Ha. He had been in poor health and was 85. I can't believe it. I think he had been an F-100 pilot before getting into a FAC seat. He was outstanding in his trade. (There are a lot of guys walking around to day as a result of Paul Powers on station during the battle at Nhi Ha.
Michaels, Richard (Richie), Mar 2007. Richie was a cook on LZ Center HHC 3-21 IN from 1968 to 1969.
Black, Ken, May 2007. Ken served with 3-21 IN, Echo Recon, Assassins/Spectre. Sam Beck writes: "He was a brave soldier and a good friend. He was with us during our night of Hell on April 13, 1968 in the AK Valley. God bless this brave soldier."
Hain, Randell (LT). Served 1968-69. Randell was in A & C Companies, 3-21 IN.
Nigro, Tony, 2006, served in Co B 3-21 IN, no additional in formation.
Hart, David, 2 Sept 2002, HHC, 3-21 IN 1968-69, Johnstown, PA
Melchior, Richard C., 2 Jan 2003, HQ & B 3-21 IN 1965-67. Born 26 Jun 1945, he lived in the Crestline, OH area all his life. He retired as Pres i dent of Crawford Construction Co. in 2002 after 35 years. He was a member of KofC #2642, several contractor’s associations, Jaycees, Fraternal Order of Eagles #859, and VFW Post #2920. Rick was a loving husband, father and grand father. He loved to play golf and attend equestrian events as well as ride horses. He always had a joke to tell and will be missed by those who knew him. He was survived by his wife Linda, and many family members.
Hunt, Douglas John, 7 May 2003, served in A 3-21 IN 1967-68. Doug was an RTO in A Co. He was from Santa Barbara, CA and was buried in Florida National Cemetery. Say a prayer for Doug. He struggled with PTSD since he came home and he is in a better place now.
Farrand, Terry, Jan 2004, Served with D 3-21 IN 1967-68. “Red” Coulthard writes, “This is a big shock and loss for us. Terry died from a heart at tack.”
Vendola, Rich, March 1999, served with B 3-21 IN 1967-68. His brother Doug writes that Rich was riding his motorcycle at the time. “He was proud of his service the 3-21 and the 196th. Rich received several awards including the Purple Heart. He was given a twenty-one gun salute. Some of the members may re member him, he would like that.” Doug Vendola 1st Cav 2/7 V.N. 69-70.
Turpin, Billy Joe, 21 Dec 1935 - 21 Dec 1997. A platoon Sgt with Co “D”, 3-21 IN and Co “A” 2-1 IN from 1966 - 1967, and went with the Brigade from Ft. Devens to Vietnam.
Summers Jr., COL Harry G., 6 May 1932 - 14 Nov 1999. COL Summers served as a squad leader with the 21st IN, 24th IN Division during the Korean War. He was an Honorary Colonel of the 3-21 Infantry. COL Summers served two tours in Vietnam and later re turned to Vietnam with the Four Party Joint Military Team investigating POW-MIAs. He wrote several books and was the Editor of Vietnam Magazine
Canales, Isaac, 4/18/28 - 01/01/99, Isaac served with Company “B”, 3-21 from 1965 to 1967, and was from Willingboro, NJ.
Sawyer, Terry, 02 Oct 1996, Terry served with Company “B”, 3-21 from 1968-1969. He was from Anacortes, WA.
Ritchey, Leland D “Dave”., 6/27/45-10/21/00. Dave served with Company “B”, 3-21 from 1965-1967. Dave lived in Osseo, MI. and is survived by his wife Betty, daughter Sue, son and daughter-in-law Todd and Kelly, grand daughter Kaithlyn and grand son Taylor. A son, James, preceded him
in death in 1971. His family and his friends loved him and will profoundly miss him.
Lapinsky, William 5/27/45-11/28/00, Served in B, 3-21 from 1965 through 1967. Bill resided in Bridge port, MI
Bartash, Robert, 4/18/45 - 12/25/93, Robert served with “B”, 3-21during 1965-1966. His wife Carol wrote that he died of Lung Cancer.
McHenry, David P., Born 2 Aug 1942, David served with E, 3-21 in 1967-68. He lived in Albuquerque, NM.
Nolan, Keith William, Vietnam War Author, age 44 of St. Charles, MO, passed away February 19, 2009. Loving father of Britt Nolan; loving son of William F. and Ulla A. Nolan; loving brother of Erik A. Nolan; dear friend of Kristin Halbert and Jordan Massey; loving brother-in-law to Becky and Ed Millinger; dear uncle of Rachel Millinger; dear friend of Kelly L. Nolan; loving nephew, cousin and friend. Memorials may be given to the Anna Britt Nolan Trust in care of First Bank 6211 Mid Rivers Mall Dr., St. Charles,
MO 63304 or American Cancer Society in care of Alter native Funeral & Cremation Ser vices, 2115 Park way Dr., St. Peters, MO 63376.
Keith was an extraordinary writer on Vietnam. He worked with many members of the 196th to re search his books. We can not thank him enough for his capture of our history.
Books by Keith Nolan:
House to House: Playing the Enemy’s Game in Saigon,
Ripcord: Screaming Eagles Under Siege, Vietnam 1970,
Battle for Saigon: Tet 1968,
Sappers In The Wire (Texas A&M University Military History Series),
A Hundred Miles of Bad Road (Dwight Birdwell, coauthor),
The Magnificent Bastards: The Joint Army-Marine Defense of Dong Ha, 1968 ,
Operation Buffalo: USMC Fight for the DMZ,
Into Cambodia, 1970: Spring Campaign, Summer Offensive,
Into Laos: The Story of Dewey Can yon II/Lam Son 719, Vietnam 1971,
Death Valley: The Summer Offensive, I Corps, Au gust 1969,
Battle for Hue: Tet 1968.
Search And Destroy: The Story Of An Armored Cavalry Squadron In Vietnam: 1-1 Cav, 1967-1968
Keith's last book was recently published after his death.
Colonel (Ret.) Charles Kilbourne Nulsen, Jr., "Bob", 88, passed away peacefully, just before dawn on Saturday, December 10, 2011 at the Clough Center in New London, New Hampshire. He had Parkinson's disease. Bob was born on November 6, 1923 at Fort Benning, GA. Upon graduation from Episcopal High School in Alexandria, VA. he enlisted in the United States Army on July 6, 1943. Following graduation from Infantry OCS at Fort Benning, GA. he entered the United States Military Academy in West Point, NY. on July 15, 1945 and graduated in June 1949. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry and assigned successively to the Army Ground School, Fort Riley, KS. and the Infantry officers basic course, Fort Benning, GA. In September of 1950 he was transferred to the 351st Infantry in Trieste where he served as Aide-de-Camp to the Commanding General TRUST. During that time, he married Alice M. Diggs of Washington, D.C. and returned to Trieste where he served as company commander in the 351st Infantry . From 1953 to 1955 Bob served as company commander of the 511th AIR, 11th Airborne Division in Fort Campbell, KY. He attended Infantry Officer's Advance Course in Fort Benning, and earned an MA in International Relations from Tulane University.
From 1961 to 1962 he attended the Command and General Staff College in Fort Leavenworth, KS. and was subsequently assigned to Vietnam as the Senior Advisor to the Vietnamese Commander of Phuoc-Binh-Than Special Zone until August of 1963. Following his return to the US. Bob was assigned to the Tactical Department at the United States Military Academy, at West Point, serving as a Plans Officer for Military Instruction from 1963 to 1966.
After leaving USMA, he joined the 196th Light Infantry Brigade and was battalion commander of the 3rd battalion, 21st Infantry in Vietnam from May 1966 to July 1967. Upon return from Vietnam, he attended the US Army War College.
From 1970 to 1972 he commanded the 1st Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, NC. Bob closed out his active military career as Director, Joint and Strategic Forces Directorate, concepts Analysis Agency, Bethesda, Maryland.
Bob retired from the Army on May 1, 1975 after 28 years of exemplary service. Among his numerous awards and decorations were the Silver Star, CIB, Master Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab. In 1975 Bob joined the Nuclear Regulatory Commission where he was responsible for publication of physical security requirements and promotion of international safeguards. During his time with the NRC he traveled significantly internationally before retiring in May 1988. In May of 1990 Bob and Alice retired to their summer home, Faraway, in West Springfield, NH. where he served the needs of the community of Springfield in various elective and non-elective positions. He served one term as a town selectman, President of the Springfield Historical Society and as a Trustee of the Wilmot Congregational Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles K. Nulsen, Marion Long Nulsen, and sister, Marion Nulsen Elliott.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Alice Diggs Nulsen, of Springfield, NH; his daughter, Alice M. Nulsen, of St. Paul; his son, Charles K. Nulsen III and wife JoAnn, of Bethesda; niece, Barbara Elliott Adams, of Austin and 5 grandchildren. He will be sorely missed, not only by his wife and family, but by the many communities and people he influenced in such positive ways throughout his life. He was a member of the Chevy Chase Club, Army Navy Club and a member of St. David's Episcopal Church in Washington, DC. A memorial service is planned for May 2012 in New Hampshire. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Bob's name to the Springfield Historical Society P. O. Box 6, Springfield, NH 03284 or Clough Center New London Hospital, 273 County Rd. New London, NH 03257. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Bob's name to the Springfield Historical Society P. O. Box 6, Springfield, NH 03284 or Clough Center New London Hospital, 273 County Rd. New London, NH 03257.
Aaron James Hineman (02/20/13)
Aaron James Hineman, 28, of Palestine, IL and formerly of Linton, passed away Tuesday morning, February 19, 2013 in Lawrence County, Illinois. He was born in Vincennes on Sept. 6, 1984, the son of Jeff and Jean (Enochs) Hineman. He served our country in the United States Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom, stationed in Kirkuk. ... "Click on his photo for full obituary"
Brig Gen Corey Jefferson Wright recently passed away. He was assigned to 1/21 24th ID
"Please click in the General's photo to visit his tribute page"
Medal of Honor Receipent Staff Sergeant Nicky Daniel Bacon 4/21 has passed on.
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The Gimlet Association’s Honorary Regimental Sergeant Major James C. Trepoy (CSM USA RET) passed away peacefully Thursday morning October 7, 2010 in Salina, Kansas. He was 89 years old.
He served two assignments with Gimlet Battalions: 1SG B 1-21 IN (Mech) 25th ID, Hawaii 61 – 64 and CSM 3-21 IN (Light), 196th Light Infantry Brigaded, Vietnam 68 – 69.
"Please click on the Major's photo for a Tribute "
Colonel JOHN J. DOODY "Jack"
B CO/ 1-21 has passed on.
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Medal of Honor Receipent, Colonel Charles P. Murray
Past 196th Brigade Ex. Officer, has passed on at 90
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The Gimlet Association 21st Infantry is not aware of a Gimlet’s passing until we get some type of notice. That notice may come from many different sources. If a living Gimlet has any information about the death of a Gimlet Brother, please send it onto the association so we may pay proper tribute to our fallen brother.
Col. Gary L. Allen, U.S. Army Ret.
(July 23, 1936 - September 15, 2013)
In 1969 Gary commanded an infantry platoon in the 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry, 196th Infantry Brigade and 23rd Infantry (Americal) Division, Vietnam.
"Please Click on the Colonel's photo for his tribute"
Mr. Okey Blankenship, age 73 of Jasper, passed away on Monday evening, October 17, 2011 at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta.Funeral Services were held at 10AM on Thursday, October 20, 2011 at the Chapel of Cagle Funeral Home with Reverend Ben Mock officiating. Interment followed at 12PM at Georgia National Cemetery in Cherokee County with Local Chapter #47 DAV in charge of Military Graveside Rites. Serving as Pallbearers were: Earl and Nicholas Windsor, Nicholas Chapman and Eddie, Bud and Tony Blankenship.
Survivors include his Sons: Bruce Blankenship of Xenia, OH and David Blankenship of Auburndale, FL; Daughters: Wadielee Vance of Wichita, KS and Donna McLemore of Auburndale, FL; 13 Grandchildren; 2 Great-Grandchildren; Sisters: Betty Davis of Elgin, IL and Tammy Colman of Panther, WV; Brothers: Herbert and Richard Blankenship, both of Jasper and William (Bud) Blankenship of Ball Ground. Mr. Blankenship was preceded in death by his Wife: Patsy Blankenship, who passed away on September 24, 2011, his Parents: Mrs. Wadie (Justice) Blankenship and Mr. Mose Blankenship and Brothers: Dencil, Eddie, Larry, Jackie and Freddie Blankenship.
Mr. Blankenship had an extensive military career including tours in Korea, Vietnam and Indochina. He was awarded several ribbons and medals, including two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars and the Distinguished Service Award.
The Family requests that in lieu of flowers, Memorials be made to the VA Association.
Cagle Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
David Ray Frierson, 67, was on the right side of the dirt until Sunday, Aug. 16, 2015, at 1:25 p.m. at the Veterans Medical Center in White River Junction, Vermont. He was born in Sumter, South Carolina, on Oct. 24, 1947, the son of Robert David and Ruby Jean (Garrett) Frierson.
He married Sharon Louise Alonzo in Gates Mills, Ohio, on June 5, 1971. David had lived in Chatham Township, Medina, Ohio for 31 years and central Vermont for the past 12 years.
David was a United States Army veteran of the Vietnam War. He served with Company C, 3d Battalion, 21st Infantry, 196th Light Infantry Brigade from May 1967 until honorably discharged May 1973 with the rank of sergeant. He was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medal.
He worked at Fisher Guide Plant, a division of General Motors in Elyria Ohio; HEB Manufacturing in Chelsea, Vermont, NEI Industries in Lebanon, New Hampshire, and NEP in Randolph, Vermont, retiring in 2009.
He was a member of Vietnam Veterans of America, Military Order of Purple Heart, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion in Northfield, Vermont, and lifetime member of Disabled American Veterans. He enjoyed hunting, semi-pro archery, restoring classic automobiles and spending time with his family.
Survivors include his wife, Sharon L. Frierson, of Roxbury; his daughter, Robyn Anne Steward and her husband, Jason, of Northfield; his son, John Q. Frierson and his wife, Vicki, of Cape Coral, Florida; two step-sisters, Rhonda Thompson, of Georgia, and Debbie Brooks, of Ohio; four grandchildren, Adam and Alec Steward, and Cayla and Keyan Frierson; and two step-grandchildren, Nathan Kappa and Evan Swarow.
He is preceded in death by his daughter, Michelle Lynne Frierson; his brother, Donnie Frierson; and his step-brother, Dan Herring, of Georgia.
Calling hours will be conducted Thursday, Aug. 20, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kingston Funeral Home, 35 Slate Ave., Northfield, VT. A funeral service to celebrate his life will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at Kingston Funeral Home, where military honors will be accorded. - See more at: David Ray Frierson's Obituary on Times Argus
John Abner Swiney, Jr., 68, of Summerville, SC, died Friday, February 26, 2016. His memorial service will be held Tuesday, March 1, 2016 in the J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Northwoods Chapel, 2180 Greenridge Road at 7:30 pm. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm in Stuhr's Northwoods Chapel.
John was born May 9, 1947 in Loudon, TN, son of the late John A. Swiney, Sr. and the late Lois Louise Taylor Swiney. He was an avid hunter, hard worker, loved his family and his dog Panda. He was very patriotic and generous to all. John was a 29 year veteran of the US Army Infantry, including two tours in Vietnam along with other deployments.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Kyong Cha Swiney of Summerville, SC; three sons: Brian J. (Lisa) Swiney of Moncks Corner, SC, Mark Swiney (Neil Perry) of Oakland, CA and Anthony (Jennifer) Swiney of Tustin, CA; three grandchildren: Jordan Bryce Swiney, Kailey Elizabeth Swiney and Finn Oliver Swiney; four sisters: Janice (James) Smith of Pelion, SC, Jacqueline Swiney of Purdy, MO, Joyce Swiney of Pelion, SC and Phyllis Magill of Ainsworth, NE. He was preceded in death by his sister, Judi Frazier.
Memorials may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P. O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.
From Skip Davis
February 28 at 2:20am
Tall timber fell yesterday.
1SG John Swiney was a superb Top NCO and a fantastic leader who walked the walk. LTC Kelly met him somewhere and was so impressed that he came back to HQ and ordered me to "get Swiney to 5-21 for the MFO mission." I was the S-1 at the time. PSNCO SSG Billy Morales made it happen.
1SG Swiney made a big impression on everyone he touched. He led by example.
And he was a really good guy.
Tall timber fell yesterday.
RIP Light fighter John Swiney!
Don was a PSG with 4-21 IN in VN.
Donald H. Landry, longtime resident of Baton Rouge and native of Morganza, passed away at his home on Friday, July 24, 2015 at the age of 74. Don proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean and Vietnam Wars and was retired due to injuries incurred during active duty. He was currently active in the follow organizations: The Military Order of the Purple Heart, Acacia Shrine Temple, Central Masonic Lodge #442, BR High 12 Club, Disabled American Veterans , Veterans of Underage Military Service, Bee Patrol, Americal Division Association, and Big Bad Bravo. Don was survived by his loving wife of 15 years, Betty B. Landry; children, Robin J.M. Landry and Tina A. Landry; close family friend, Amanda Good; step-daughters, Cheryl Bosarge, Terri B. Fitzgerald and Lisa Bosarge; brother, Simon J. Landry and wife Laura; granddaughter, Lauren J. Conner; grandson, Daniel J. Watson; and first wife and mother of his children, Betty (Jane) Vosburg Landry. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence P. Landry and Esma Comeaux Landry; daughter, Lisa L. Watson; and step-son, Ricky Bosarge. Visitation will be held at Greenoaks Funeral Home on Monday, July 27, 2015 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Visitation will continue at the funeral home on Tuesday, July 28, 2015 from 8:30 am until the Masonic Service at 9:30 am immediately followed by the Funeral Service. A graveside service with military honors will follow at 11:00 am at the Louisiana National Cemetery in Zachary. A reception will be held after the graveside service at the Greenoaks Reception Center from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Military Order of the Purple Heart at www.purpleheart.org, or the Acacia Shrine Center at 7991 S. Commerce Ave. Baton Rouge, LA 70815-8029. Online condolences are welcomed at www.greenoaksfunerals.com. - See more at: http://obits.theadvocate.com/obituaries/theadvocate/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=175365781#sthash.3JsgVV5P.Kq0OEXvj.dpuf
Col. John William Callaghan, Born: July 10, 1924, Died: February 06, 2015
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Hareng, Charles P.
Passed away peacefully to be with the Lord on August 22, 2015 at the age of 67
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Selmer "Sam" Leehe, age 67, of Amery, Wis., died Monday, May 20, at Veteran's Hospital in Minneapolis, Minn.
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Gary L. Hunt age 66, a Vietnam veteran B 3-21 Infantry, of Bloomington died peacefully on 10/13/2016 of lung cancer surrounded by his family.
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Eric R. Shimer, 72, of Bethlehem, passed away at home on Sunday, November 25, 2018. He was the loving husband of Barbara (Fairback) Shimer, with whom he shared over 36 years of marriage. Born in Allentown, Ric was the son of the late Acton J. and Eleanor L. (Keim) Shimer. He was a graduate of Liberty High School in 1964, of Moravian College in 1968, and of Villanova School of Law in 1973. He was drafted into the US Army in 1968, and served as a Grenadier in the 196th Infantry Brigade in Vietnam. In 1973, he was admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar, and served as an attorney until his retirement in 2012. Ric was also a member of the Bethlehem Jaycees, American Red Cross, Korea / Vietnam Memorial, and American Legion Post 379, where he was a member of the Honor Guard. Survivors: wife Barbara; son William and his wife Kellie; daughter Susan Olinik and her husband Matthew; brother Jary W. Shimer and his wife Julie; sister Lori Hamilton; cousin Polly Fiddler and her husband Andrew; grandsons Jacob and John; a niece and a nephew. Services: Funeral Services will be held at 11 AM on Friday, November 30, in the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden St., Bethlehem, 18018, where friends may call from 10 AM until time of services. Interment will follow at Nisky Hill Cemetery.
Rocco Negris, Major General (Retired) U.S. Army, died peacefully on Oct 31, 2018, at age 87, surrounded by his family.
Beloved husband of Joan Ann Negris, loving father of James Rocco Negris and Anne-Marie Negris Moccia. Also survived by sister Aurora (Woody) DeLuca, son-in-law Robert S. Moccia, and grandchildren Alexandra (Alex) Moccia, Isabelle (Izzy) Moccia, and Robert (Sam) Moccia.
He will be remembered for his generosity, integrity and love of his family. Rocco was born in North Providence, RI on July 4, 1931 and grew up there, the youngest of 8 children. Rocco was a gifted athlete and was the Rhode Island State Cross-Country Champion as a senior in high school. He attended the University of Rhode Island on a baseball scholarship, graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education, and entered active duty with the U.S. Army in October 1953.
His military education included the Armed Forces Staff College and the United States Army War College. He also earned a Master of Arts degree in Public Administration from Shippensburg State College in Pennsylvania. General Negris served three tours of duty in Vietnam, as Assistant Division Commander, Fort Carson, CO, as Deputy Commanding General, Ft. Lewis, WA, and finally as Commanding General, Fort Dix, NJ. He earned numerous military awards and decorations, including a Silver Star, Bronze Star, Distinguished Service Medal, and Legion of Merit. He retired on July 31, 1988 after serving our country with honor and distinction for almost 35 years. Rocco was inducted into the North Providence High School Hall of Fame, University of Rhode Island Athletic Hall of Fame, and University of Rhode Island ROTC Hall of Fame. He holds a special place of honor in the Gimlet Association. Not only was he an Honorary Officer thereto, he also commanded the 3-21 IN and Task Force Gimlet Commander when the Gimlets stood down in Vietnam.
Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, November 7, 2018, at the Church of the Holy Eucharist, 520 Medford Lakes Road, Tabernacle, NJ. A viewing will take place from 9-11am, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11am.
Internment with full military honors will take place at 2:00pm, at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery, 350 Province Line Road, Wrightstown, NJ.
Obituary
CW3 William (Bill) L. Doyle Jr., USA, Ret. passed away March 17, 2021, at the age of 75. Bill was born in Orange County, California, to the late William Leander Doyle Sr. and Mrs. Alma Augusta O'Byrne Doyle. He served his country in the United States Army and retired after 22 years of honorable service. Bill was a veteran of the Vietnam War where he served in the 196th Light Infantry Brigade and attached to the 101st Air Mobile. He saw action, was twice wounded by enemy fire, and subsequently awarded the Purple Heart. Later in his career, he served in The Old Guard at Fort Meyers, Washington, DC, Arlington National Cemetery, as a Drill Instructor at Fort Dix, NJ, and as an instructor at the Northern Warfare Training Center in Fort Greely, AK. At age 39, Bill attended helicopter flight school at Fort Rucker, AL, with classmates half his age, graduated top of his class, and finished up his career as a UH-1H (Huey) helicopter pilot in command at Fort Drum, NY. Following his retirement from his distinguished army career, Bill worked as a schoolteacher at Rock Church Academy in Petersburg, VA, and finally as a computer technician with Chesterfield County Public Schools where he retired after 10 years. Bill was a faithful member of Harvest Assembly of God in Chesapeake, VA, where he served on the security team.
He is survived by his loving wife Pamela Jean Doyle of 55 years; daughters Leah and Cecilia, and sons Ty, Sean, and Mark. He has nine grandchildren: Zachary, Ryan, Ethan, Meghan, William Luke, Matas, Charlotte, Ashlyn, and Cameron.
Viewing will be held on Thursday, March 25, 2021, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Graham Funeral Home, 1112 Kempsville Rd., Chesapeake. A celebration of life service will be held on March 26, 2021, at 1 p.m. at Harvest Assembly of God, 525 Kempsville Rd., Chesapeake with Pastor Brad Shedd officiating. He will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Please visit www.grahamfuneralhome.com to leave a condolence to the family.
