Acevedo, Ben: One of ten children; brought up in the rural Yakima Valley of Washington where his father Benjamin worked as a farm laborer and his mother Berta was a housewife. Served as a team leader in 1st Platoon. Helped to rescue Charlie Nelson in the battle of May 15. After the war worked for Boeing for a short time, but then moved from job to job, especially as a truck driver. Loved to ride Harleys. He passed away in 2009.
Alldridge, Gale: Replacement who came to Charlie Company through infusion in September, 1967. Member of 3rd Platoon. Killed in action, October 6, 1967.
Bailey, Danny: Born in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Injured by a booby trap on April 8; threw away his crutches and returned to action in the fighting on June 19. Best friends with Cecil Bridges. Married after the war and had two daughters. Passed away in 2009.
Balch, Bobby: Member of 1st Platoon. Wounded in action on June 19, 1967.
Bauler, John: One of the California contingent of draftees. In Vietnam served in 1st Platoon and as RTO for squad leader John Young. Along with Doug Wilson retrieved the body of Don Peterson after the fighting on May 15. Passed away in 2002.
Benedick, Jack: From Omaha, Nebraska, graduate of Officer Candidates School. Married Nancy in 1965 and had a son, Jack Jr., in 1966. Platoon leader, 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company. Wounded in the fighting on June 19. Returned to Vietnam in 1969 as commander, Charlie Company, 3rd of the 60th Infantry. Wounded by a booby trap in April 1969 and lost both legs below the knee. Continued with military career and became a champion downhill skier.
Bertolino, Fred: West Point classmate of Lynn Hunt and John Hoskins. Platoon leader, 1st Platoon, Alpha Company, 4th of the 47th Infantry. Killed in action on June 19, 1967.
Black, Duffy: From Peoria, Illinois. Joined the military in 1962, and later attended Officer Candidates School. While at Fort Riley with Charlie Company met and wed Ida, the daughter of the postmaster of the 9th Infantry Division. Served as company executive officer in Vietnam. Wounded by a booby trap in the Rung Sat Special Zone on April 8, 1967, and died in the hospital three days later.
Blas, Pedro: Born in Guam, served as platoon sergeant for 4th Platoon, Charlie Company. Died in 1994.
Boetcher, Frank: Machine gunner in 1st Platoon who dueled with a VC machine gunner on June 19.
Bradfield, John: From Cleveland and was only eight when his father died in an industrial accident. Always managed to have a record player on hand to play Motown for his buddies. Member of 3rd Platoon. Wounded by a booby trap in August 1967. Returned home and worked for the post office and married Esther, his “angel and care giver.”
Bridges, Cecil (Benny): From east Texas. Member of 1st Platoon. Served as John Young’s RTO. Killed in action July 29, 1967.
Bryan, Ronnie: Member of 2nd Platoon. Wounded in action on June 19, 1967.
Burkhead, Danny: Replacement who came to Charlie Company through infusion in September 1967. Member of 3rd Platoon. Killed in action October 6, 1967.
Burleson, Henry: From rural Texas outside Abilene. Convincingly buried a cigarette butt at Fort Riley. Served in 2nd Platoon, where he was close friends with Mike Cramer, Phil Ferro, and Butch Eakins. After the war returned to Abilene, where he worked for a sign company for several years before going into business for himself.
Caliari, Tony: From an Italian family outside Pittsburgh. Family moved to California in 1959. Member of 3rd Platoon. Wounded in action May 15, 1967. Returned to California where he worked in construction for several years.
Cara, Robert: Member of 4th Platoon. Killed in action June 19, 1967.
Casares, Idoluis: From Brownsville, Texas, where he learned English in the local public schools. Served in the 2nd Platoon and was dubbed “Bear” by his friend Bill Geier. Wounded in action July 11, 1967. After returning from Vietnam, married Toni, his high school girlfriend, in January 1968. Graduated with BBA from University of Texas-Austin in summer of 1968. Licensed as a Certified Public Accountant since 1972. In 2007, went back in to Vietnam, with his three children and 13 others, to visit on the 40th Anniversary of the Ap Bac battle. Still resides and works as a CPA in Brownsville, Texas, a border town across from Mexico.
Cockerell, Stan: From North Hollywood, California. Though only 129lbs, was a star football player in high school. Volunteered for the draft, and served with 2nd Platoon. After the war he did, indeed, work up the gumption to ask Linda Walters for a date, and the couple married in 1969. Cockerell went to work as a propmaster for several major Hollywood movie studios and worked on a host of projects including The Natural, Dead Poets Society, and We Were Soldiers. Cockerell retired in 2008. He and Linda have three children, Scott, Jeffrey, and Mindy, and six grandchildren.
Conroy, Tom: Son of a meat cutter from Lancaster, California. Married Vivian after basic training. Member of 3rd Platoon. Served as RTO to platoon leader John Hoskins. Worked several jobs after the war, especially in construction. He and Vivian had three children. Tom retired in 1999 and now loves tinkering on cars.
Cortright, Carl: From Mission Hills, California. Came to 1st Platoon of Charlie Company as a replacement in April, 1967. Wounded in action and paralyzed on May 15, 1967. Became a champion athlete in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games.
Cramer, Mike: From Pacoima, California. Worked at Rocketdyne after high school. Served in 2nd Platoon as an RTO. Called in the first air strikes on June 19. Close friends with Phil Ferro, Butch Eakins, and Henry Burleson. After the war got married and graduated from college. Works as an insurance adjuster.
Crockett, Lynn: Born into a farming family near Cumberland, Kentucky. Entered the military at age 17. Served as first sergeant for Charlie Company and played a pivotal role in training at Fort Riley. Served a second tour with the 25th Division in 1969–70. Retired from the military in 1973.
Cusanelli, Jim: From Saint Louis, Missouri. Served in 3rd Platoon of Charlie Company. Was close friends with Jose Sauceda.
Deedrick, Don: Member of 1st Platoon. He and his wife Sue lived with Steve and Karen Huntsman and Don and Jacque Peterson while at Fort Riley.
Dennison, Jim: Son of an Irish pub owner from Chicago. Member of 1st Platoon. Once tackled a Viet Cong while on night ambush in July. After the war worked selling construction equipment and eventually moved to California, where he and John Bauler were instrumental in setting up the first Charlie Company reunions.
Eakins, Butch: From Cape Girardeau, Missouri, and later worked at Caterpillar in Peoria, Illinois. Close friends with Phil Ferro, Mike Cramer, and Henry Burleson. Member of 2nd Platoon. Killed in action on July 11, 1967.
Ehlert, Bob: Born on a ranch in Montana, but raised in Minnesota. Loved the outdoor life and horses. Worked as a machinist before being drafted. Served in 2nd Platoon of Charlie Company and was wounded by a sniper on June 5, 1967. After the war worked in construction and as a homebuilder in Minnesota, married the love of his life Linda, and raised four children. Foot and back problems stemming from his wounds in Vietnam led to a career change into real estate, in which he still works.
Eisenbaugh, Bob: From Philadelphia and Shamokin, Pennsylvania. One of Charlie Company’s early replacements, arriving in April 1967. Wounded in action in November. After the war worked as a correctional officer and then a counselor with the prison system for 25 years. Married with one child.
Fadden, Paris: From Robbinsdale, Minnesota, where his father worked as a mechanic and his mother was a homemaker. Liked cars, drag racing, and girls. Drafted into 4th Division, but transferred into Charlie Company, where he served in the 4th Platoon. Wounded in action on June 26, 1967. After the war returned to Minnesota, went to trade school, and worked in sheet metal and air conditioning for 31 years. Still enjoys working on cars and is married to a wonderful woman who understands him.
Ferro, Phil: From Northridge, California, where he won the Los Angeles city championship in high hurdles during high school. Was especially close to his sister Diane, and married Sandy in 1965. Close friends with Mike Cramer, Butch Eakins, and Henry Burleson. Member of 2nd Platoon. Killed in action on July 11, 1967.
Fink, Hubert: Member of 4th Platoon. Killed in action on June 19, 1967.
Fischer, Tim: From Cleveland, where he worked as a hod carrier on construction sites. Member of 3rd Platoon where he served as a squad leader. Close friends with Ron Vidovic. After the war worked in construction and then as a long-haul truck driver.
Frakes, Kenny: From Lancaster, California, where he was on the high school track and wrestling teams. Drafted with friends Larry Lilley and Tim Johnson. Member of 4th Platoon. Killed in action on June 19, 1967.
French, Bob: From Tampa, Florida, where he had quit college to work in the post office, which left him open to the draft. Married Kaye who accompanied him to Fort Riley. He did not find out that she was pregnant until he was in Vietnam. Served as an RTO in 2nd Platoon. His sister, Ginger, became a pen pal of Bill Geier. Wounded in action on June 19, 1967. After the war returned to Tampa and worked at the post office for 21 years.
Fulton, William: From Berkley, California. Graduated from the University of California as an ROTC honor graduate. Won a Distinguished Service Cross as a company commander in Italy during World War II. Served as a battalion commander in the 4th Infantry Division during the Korean War. In Vietnam served as Commander 2nd Brigade, 9th Infantry Division. Retired as lieutenant general in 1977 and then worked for the Association of the United States Army. Passed away in 2006.
Gann, Ronnie: From Los Angeles, where his father worked as a machinist for Lockheed. Member of 4th Platoon. Wounded in action on October 6, 1967. After the war, completed his college degree and worked as an accountant in a law firm. Married twice and has three children.
Geier, Bill: From the Chicago area, son of Jack and Bernice Geier. Medic with 2nd Platoon. Killed in action on June 19, 1967. Mother, brother, sister, and other family members still demonstrate love and support for Bill by attending Charlie Company reunions.
Gronseth, Gary: California native. Served with 1st Platoon. On May 15, 1967, hit a fleeing Viet Cong on the head with a shell from an M79 grenade launcher.
Hartman, Ernie: From Sugar Grove, Pennsylvania. After high school took a job as a precision grinder and married his sweetheart Jeannie. Arrived in Charlie Company as a replacement in 1st Platoon just after the battle of June 19, 1967. Wounded in action on July 29, 1967. Went back to work as a precision grinder for 37 years before the company was sold. Ernie and Jeannie have a child, Corey, and a grandchild, Dylan.
Harvey, Gene: From North Hollywood, where his father worked for Lockheed. After high school went to college, but dropped one too many classes leaving him open for the draft. Married sweetheart Deanna before departing for Vietnam. Member of 1st Platoon. In the fighting on May 15, 1967, volunteered to search for the downed squad. Re-enlisted after May 15, and was assigned to Transportation Command. Worked for United Parcel Service, rising to the rank of Human Resources Manager before his retirement in 2000. He and Deanna have been married 45 years and have two children and two grandchildren.
Hoffman, Edward*: Fictitious name for Dave Jarczewski’s RTO in 1st Platoon who failed to give the order for the squad to fall back on May 15, 1967.
Hoover, Buford: From West Virginia. Platoon sergeant, 1st Platoon. Passed away in 2001.
Hopper, Steve: From the rural area near Greenfield, Illinois. After high school worked for Caterpillar in Peoria, Illinois. Member of 3rd Platoon. Wounded in action on July 1, 1967, and on October 6, 1967. After the war returned to Greenfield, married his sweetheart Jennifer, and worked for Caterpillar.
Hoskins, John: US Military Academy graduate, class of 1966. Platoon leader, 3rd Platoon, Charlie Company. Wounded in action on July 11, 1967. Later served as company commander, Echo Company, 3/60 Infantry. Killed in action May 6, 1968.
Howell, John: From Pismo Beach, California. Had a job that didn’t take too much of his time, and loved surfing and girls. Member of 3rd Platoon. Wounded in action on July 12, 1967. Infused in August. After the war, returned to California, married four times and now has two children and five grandchildren. Owned his own company doing home remodeling and ceramic tile installation. For the last 12 years has lived in Florida.
Hubbard, Henry: Replacement to Charlie Company in June 1967. Served in 2nd Platoon. With Frank Schwan, narrowly avoided Viet Cong patrols following the fighting on July 11, 1967.
Hunt, Lynn: Grew up in the Miami area. Went to the US Military Academy on a swimming scholarship. Class of 1966. Platoon leader of 1st Platoon. Retired from the military as a lieutenant colonel in 1989. Next worked as manager of a computer war game simulation center for the military in Germany before moving back to the United States and working with Westinghouse in Aiken, South Carolina. In 1997 moved to Myrtle Beach and ran his own hurricane protection business until 2009. Now is semi-retired and enjoys playing tennis.
Huntsman, Steve: From Saint George, Utah. Attended Brigham Young University and married Karen before going to Fort Riley, where the couple lived with Don and Jacque Peterson. Served in 1st Platoon. Wounded in action May 15, 1967. Later re-enlisted. After the war worked as a truck driver for 27 years.
Irvin, Curtis: Grew up in Lutesville, Missouri. Member of 2nd Platoon of Charlie Company. After the war returned to Missouri, living in Farmington. Married and has two children and one grandchild. Owned and operated his own business in Farmington until his retirement in 2009.
Jarczewski, Dave: From Depew, New York. After high school worked in the Lackawanna, New York plant of Bethlehem Steel. Member of 1st Platoon. Squad leader of 2nd Squad, which was furthest from cover in Charlie Company’s first major battle on May 15, 1967. Wounded in action May 15, 1967. After returning from Vietnam, went back to work for Bethlehem Steel until it closed and then worked in the US Post Office.
Jindra, Bobby: From Wickliffe, near Cleveland. Married to Dolly and had a daughter named Jacque, both of whom accompanied him to training at Fort Riley. Killed in action on June 19, 1967.
Johnson, Jim: Member of 3rd Platoon. Heavily involved in the fighting on July 11, 1967.
Johnson, Tim: From Lancaster, California. Worked for General Telephone after high school and was drafted along with Larry Lilley and Kenny Frakes. Member of 3rd Platoon. Killed in action on June 19, 1967.
Johnston, Jace: From the near north side of Chicago, father Jace was a military man and mother Bernadette a telephone operator. Turned down a draft deferment for his work in optical medical supplies. Served in 3rd Platoon. After the war moved to Arizona and first worked in construction and then as a real estate agent and broker.
Kayser, Evans (Sonny): First lieutenant and member of a Crusader Fire Team of Delta Troop, 3rd Squadron, 5th Armored Cavalry, which often provided fire support to troops of the Mobile Riverine Force, notably on the battle of June 19.
Kenney, Elmer (Fred): From Chatsworth, California. Married Barbara, who gave birth to their son, Freddie, while Kenney was on the troopship to Vietnam. Served in 3rd Platoon. Killed in action July 11, 1967. After the war Barbara worked for a title company, while she and Freddie did their best to honor Fred’s memory.
Kerr, Daniel: From Indiana, Pennsylvania. Abandoned by his father in Beria, Ohio, and became a ward of the state. Joined the military in 1960, largely for survival. Married Karin while stationed in Germany, who accompanied him to Fort Riley. During his tour became platoon sergeant for 2nd Platoon. Retired from the military in 1980. Became a stock broker and moved to Tacoma, Washington.
King, Harold Wayne: From Copper Hill, Virginia. Arrived in Vietnam in February 1967 and became one of the early replacements in Charlie Company. Served in 2nd Platoon. Was close friends with Butch Eakins, Phil Ferro, and Mike Cramer. Killed in action on July 11, 1967.
Larson, Rollo: From Macon, Georgia. Joined the National Guard in 1952 as an enlisted man. Went to Officer Candidates School in 1963. Became first commander of Charlie Company in 1966. In June of 1967 rotated home. Retired from the military in 1975 and lived in North Carolina, where he worked for a building supply company. Moved to Atlanta to be near his parents and worked for the state of Georgia until he retired on his 65th birthday. Retired to Eatonton, Georgia, where he loves to play golf.
Layman, Ray: Born in Frostburg, Maryland, but raised in Mentor, Ohio. A Charlie Company original who served with 2nd Platoon. Wounded in action on April 23, 1967. After his service Layman returned to Ohio to his wife, June, and a family that came to include two sons, Raymond and Joseph. Worked at a major energy plant in northern Ohio 25 years before moving to a new job at Ameri-gas. Enjoyed bowling, golf, and billiards. Passed away in 2002.
Lerquin, William: Platoon sergeant, 1st Platoon.
Lethcoe, Mike: From Houston; survived polio at the age of eight and was abandoned by his father at 14. Served in 2nd Platoon, Alpha Company. Was walking point when the battle broke out on June 19, 1967. After the war worked as a truck driver before becoming a commercial deep sea diver.
Lilley, Larry: From Lancaster, California. Champion motorcycle rider in high school. Drafted with his friends Kenney Frakes and Tim Johnson. Served in 1st Platoon. After Vietnam took over the family group of motorcycle dealerships.
Lind, Herb: From St Paul, Nebraska. Got his draft notice as a senior in college in 1961 and went to Officer Candidates School. Married Becky during his initial assignments. Took over command of Charlie Company when Rollo Larson rotated home. Retired from the military in 1985. Settled in Manhattan, Kansas, and worked in auto parts before working part time for a local church as a step toward retirement.
Lopez, Mario: Born into a family of migrant workers in Calexico, California. Almost quit school before receiving a lesson in the true nature of hard work from his father. Served in 2nd Platoon. After the war worked for Owens Corning Fiberglass and then for Unocal agricultural products where he rose to the rank of Unit Coordinator, producing fertilizer for crops that provided agricultural workers with employment. Never talked about Vietnam until a 2010 camping trip with his son Mario Jr. Entranced by the stories, Lopez’ grandson, Mario III, went looking for information on the internet, and located the 9th Infantry Division website. Lopez attended the 2010 reunion of Charlie Company – the first time he had seen his brothers since 1968.
Lovell, Wayne: First lieutenant and member of the “Long Knives” lift platoon of Delta Troop, helicopters that often ferried the men of Charlie Company into battle. Pilot of the first medevac helicopter that was shot down on June 19.
Lukes, Larry: From Sioux Falls, South Dakota. After high school moved to Fairmont, Nebraska, and worked on farms. Married Kay in December 1966. Served in 3rd Platoon. After the war returned to Nebraska and worked in a factory before taking a position as a truck driver. Now retired and owns 9 acres in the country where his grandchildren can come and play.
McBride, Terry: From Greenfield, California. Had a rural upbringing and loved boxing. Served in 3rd Platoon. In June 1967 wore the ponytail of a VC on his helmet. After the war Greenfield just didn’t seem quite the same, so McBride picked up and moved to Alaska. Worked in several “tough” jobs including as a bouncer at a topless bar. McBride married Patti, and enjoys riding motorcycles and fishing, even though he has serious Vietnam-related health problems.
McMillan, Fred: A Charlie Company replacement universally known as Moon Mullins. Served in 1st Platoon. Wounded in action May 15, 1967.
McTear, Willie: From Newellton, Louisiana. Was drafted out of Las Vegas, while also attending school part-time at Southern University. Served in 2nd Platoon. Close friends with Ron Schworer. After Vietnam returned to Las Vegas, got married and had two children. Spent a few years homeless and addicted to drugs, before getting clean and working in California hospitals aiding those with chemical and alcohol dependencies. Now lives in Las Vegas and helps veterans with PTSD.
Maibach, Gary: From Sterling, Ohio. Worked for the local family store and was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church. Married Mary and had one child before departing for Vietnam. Was a conscientious objector, and joined 1st Platoon of Charlie Company as a medic. After returning home eventually took over the family business, helped to raise a family of four children, and became a minister in the Apostolic Christian Church of America. Is especially involved in veteran outreach.
Marr, Joe: From Warrensburg, Missouri. After high school did not find a job to his liking and chose to join the military along with three of his friends in 1958. Married Edna and had one son before departing for Vietnam. Platoon sergeant, 3rd Platoon, Charlie Company. Wounded in action on June 1, 1967. Got out of the military shortly after returning from Vietnam. Eventually went into the trucking business with his brother, and is still working in the same job.
Miller, Jimmy: From the hill country of Tennessee. Served in 1st Platoon. Wounded in action on June 19, 1967.
Moede, Steve: From Encino, California. Sent off the infamous “letter” during training at Fort Riley. Served as a squad leader in 2nd Platoon. After the war worked in the Los Angeles Police Department, rising to the rank of captain. Passed away in 2006.
Morgan, Lance*: Fictitious name for the soldier who served in 1st Platoon who froze up during the battle on May 15, 1967.
Morgan, Larry: Member of 1st Platoon. Wounded in action on June 19, 1967.
Nall, James: From Fairfield, Alabama, where he wanted to be the next Willie Mays. Moved to Los Angeles to live with his sister and worked for the US Post Office before being drafted. Served in 1st Platoon. Wounded in action after being infused to the 5th Battalion, 60th Infantry. After returning from Vietnam went back to work for the post office in Los Angeles where he worked for another 34 years.
Nelson, Charlie: From the Navajo reservation in Arizona and later moved to Los Angeles with his parents. Served in 1st Platoon, often as a mailman due to the fear that he could be mistaken for a Viet Cong. Talked his way into serving in the field with his brothers. Wounded in action on May 15, 1967. After the war tried living in Los Angeles, but returned to the reservation to deal with issues arising from the war. Now lives the simple life of a farmer.
Northcott, Richard: From Encino, California, where he loved to surf and race hotrods. Served in 4th Platoon. After the war worked with Lockheed for 41 years, working with Bill Reynolds and not even knowing it until the two reconnected as part of the Charlie Company reunion process.
O’Gara, Mike: Had grown up a typical Midwestern kid and gave college a try while figuring out what was next. Went to school only part time because he also needed to hold down a job, resulting in draft eligibility. Served in 2nd Platoon. After the war finished college, held down a good job, got married and raised a family. Today enjoys time in his cabin and with his grandchildren.
Peterson, Don: From Arroyo Grande, California. After high school worked with his father painting houses before marrying Jacque, who followed him to Fort Riley. Son Jimmy was born just before Peterson shipped out to Vietnam. Killed in action on May 15, 1967. Jacque remarried and separated from the Peterson family. All were reunited when Jimmy was a teenager and learned of his real father. Jacque works as a Licensed Vocational Nurse. Jimmy first tried a stint in the US Navy before working in the music business.
Rademacher, Jim: From Fowler, Michigan. Kept up a steady stream of letters to his sweetheart, Mary Ann, after his departure for Vietnam. Charlie Company replacement, arriving in June 1967. Served in 2nd Platoon. Wounded in action on June 19, 1967. Returned home to marry Mary Ann.
Radowenchuk, Walter: From Lakewood, Ohio, near Cleveland. Son of Ukrainian immigrants. Had a short stint in junior college before being drafted. Served in 2nd Platoon. Wounded in action on June 19, 1967. After Vietnam returned home and worked for the phone company until his retirement in 2003. Married Carol and had two children.
Ramos, Forrest: From Wapato, Washington, where he often worked in the fields with his father as a hop thrower. Served in 3rd Platoon, where he was known as one of Charlie Company’s top pranksters. Killed in action on June 19, 1967. His younger brother, Jesse, followed Forrest to Vietnam and served in the 101st Airborne Division.
Reed, Bill: Second son of a family of four from Lancaster, California. After high school enrolled part time at a junior college and worked several part time jobs. A Charlie Company original who served with 1st Platoon. After three months in Vietnam doctors removed him from the field for medical reasons. Reed kept trying to return to the field to be with his Charlie Company buddies, but doctors kept him from combat until he was infused to the 2nd Battalion, 60th Infantry. After the war went to college and received a Masters Degree in business and had a successful career with Lockheed Martin, retiring at age 55.
Reeves, Robert: Commander of Alpha Company, 4th of the 47th. Lost much of his command in the battle of June 19, 1967. Later took over command of Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 60th Infantry. Killed in action on February 21, 1968.
Renert, Marty: Raised in Fairlawn, New Jersey and was a varsity wrestler in high school. Went to college at Rutgers, but transferred to UCLA, which necessitated sitting out for a year. With deferment gone, volunteered for the draft. Served in 1st Platoon in Vietnam. In May 1967 was reassigned to a postal unit and remained in the military until 1970. Later was readmitted to UCLA, where he studied economics, while also working part time and helping to raise two children, John and Joey. Went to work for the City of Los Angeles where he rose to the position of Director of Administrative Services for the Los Angeles Water System. After retirement in 1998, worked as a volunteer for the Court Appointed Special Advocates of Orange County, California.
Reynolds, Bill: Lived in Texas and Australia before settling in the San Fernando Valley of California. Worked at General Motors and went to community college before being drafted. Served as a squad leader in 2nd Platoon. Wounded in action on June 19, 1967. After the war worked at Lockheed and has been instrumental in setting up the website of the 9th Infantry Division and in the development of Charlie Company reunions.
Reynolds, Ronnie: From Malvern, Arkansas, where his father worked for a local shoe company. Served in 2nd Platoon. Wounded in action on August 16, 1967. Returned home on 80 percent disability due to his wounds. Married in 1969 and had two children. Worked for Alcoa on mining equipment. Since the war has had an additional 150 small pieces of shrapnel removed from his body.
Rhodes, Dusty: US Navy commander who took his monitor gunship up a tiny stream to aid Charlie Company in the battle of June 19, 1967.
Rice, Cameron: Member of 4th Platoon. Killed in action on June 19, 1967.
Richards, Alan: From Mequon, Wisconsin. Raised as part of a family of nine, his father passed away when he was too young to remember. Served in 4th Platoon. Wounded in action on June 1, 1967, and on October 6, 1967. After the war worked in management in a machine shop in Wisconsin prior to opening his own business, from which he retired in 2007. Serves as state commander for the American Legion.
Riley, Bill: From Tell City, Indiana. Worked on farms but wanted to be a welder. Moved to North Hollywood before being drafted. Served in 3rd Platoon. Wounded in action on June 19, 1967. After the war returned to Indiana where he first worked in mining and then as a road crew boss in the prison system. Retired in 2006 and now enjoys fishing and golf.
Robin, David: Member of 4th Platoon. Killed in action on June 19, 1967.
Rubio, Richard: From Canoga Park, California, where his father worked as a foreman on a local ranch. Was a high school classmate of Fred Kenney. Served in 3rd Platoon, where he was especially close to Forrest Ramos. Returned home to California and worked for Schlitz Brewing Company, got married and had three children. Retired and teaching golf at the El Caballero Country Club.
Sachs, Robert: Served in 3rd Platoon. Wounded in action on June 1, 1967.
Salazar, Jimmie: From Austin, Texas. Married Aurora before departing for Vietnam. Served in 2nd Platoon. After the war returned to Texas where he worked for the Lower Colorado River Authority. Suffered from PTSD and heart disease, but he and Aurora fought through the hard times and reconnected with Charlie Company.
Sauceda, Jose: Son of Mexican immigrants, raised in Mercedes, Texas. Was a migrant worker growing up and later took a job at a General Motors plant in Michigan. Before departing for Vietnam married his sweetheart Noemi, who gave birth to the couple’s first child, Belinda, early during Charlie Company’s tour in Vietnam. Served in 3rd Platoon. After Vietnam went to college first in Texas and then in Michigan before becoming a teacher in migrant camps. Worked his way through various jobs before becoming the head of housekeeping for 83 Lord and Taylor stores, working out of New York. He and Noemi had two more children, Jose Junior and Omar, both of whom sadly passed away. Retired back to Mercedes, and Vietnam remains a major part of his life.
Schulman, Sheldon: From Chicago, Illinois where he graduated from South Shore High School. Married Fern Davidson before enlisting in the Army and attending Officer Candidate School. Remained behind when Charlie Company deployed to deal with complications from the birth of his son, Michael. Served as platoon leader of 4th Platoon in Charlie Company and was killed in battle on June 19, 1967. After Schulman’s death, Fern moved to Florida to work as a travel agent. She married twice more and had another child, Marnie. In a 2004 ceremony Fern received the military decorations awarded to her late husband. The family gave the medals to Fred Rosenberg to display in his home, where they hang to this day. Fern passed away in 2011 after a battle with cancer.
Schwan, Frank: From a Hungarian neighborhood in Cleveland. After high school worked in a factory and loved to hang around in pool halls. Served in 2nd Platoon. Wounded in action on July 11, 1967, with he and Henry Hubbard having to evade Viet Cong patrols at night. After the war worked for Ohio Bell until his retirement in 2000. Now enjoys hunting and fishing, though his wounds sustained in Vietnam still bother him from time to time.
Schworer, Ron: Born in 1946; grew up in Lancaster, California and Las Vegas, Nevada. With a strained family life leading to a great sense of self reliance, Ron was an exceptional intellect, excelling in mathematics and the study of computers. Had formed a computer programming company with two of his friends before being drafted. Served in 2nd Platoon and was especially close to Willie McTear. Was declared missing in action on April 8, 1967 and later presumed dead. Ronald Schworer’s remains were never recovered.
Sclimenti, John: From the San Fernando Valley of California. Excelled in gymnastics in high school, where he also served as class vice president. Served in 1st Platoon. Rescued Charlie Nelson from the battlefield on May 15, 1967. After the war worked for L-3 Communications, married, and had three children.
Scott, Enoch: From Texas. Served in 1st Platoon. Wounded in action on May 15, 1967.
Searcy, Ted: From Portland, Tennessee. Dropped out of school in the 9th grade, and enlisted in the army in 1959 to avoid trouble with the law. Out of the service from 1962 to 1964. Served as a sergeant in 2nd Platoon. Wounded in action on June 19, 1967. Retired from the military in 1972. Got heavily involved with drugs and alcohol. In 1978 found religion, got clean, and turned his life around. Has been preaching and working as a carpenter ever since.
Segaster, Joel: A Charlie Company replacement in July 1967. Served in 1st Platoon. Wounded in action on July 29, 1967.
Shires, Clarence: From Chesapeake, Virginia. Got married in 1962 and had a child, but a divorce changed his draft status. Took Charlie the Cat to Vietnam. Served in 1st Platoon, wounded in action on July 11, 1967. Returned home and married Loretta in 1970. Worked as a management analyst for the Department of the Navy for 34 years.
Slaughter, Sam: Leader of a Crusader Fire Team of Delta Troop, 3rd Squadron, 5th Armored Cavalry, which often provided fire support to troops of the Mobile Riverine Force, notably on the battle of June 19.
Smith, George: Squad leader in 2nd Platoon. Led the squad that first made contact in the battle of July 11, 1967. Killed in action on July 11, 1967.
Smith, James (Smitty): From Shaker Heights, Ohio, where he lettered in three high school sports. Attended college in business administration, but his grades didn’t hold out and he was drafted. Served in 3rd Platoon. Wounded in action on May 15, 1967, and by a booby trap in August. After the war returned to Ohio, got married in 1973 and worked in many jobs, including working at Southwest Airlines. Is heavily involved in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and volunteers at hospitals.
Smith, Robert (Smitty): From North Carolina. Mess sergeant for Charlie Company, who also ran a perpetual poker game. Served in the military for nearly 30 years. Married with four children. Passed away in 2008.
Spain, Kirby: From Danville, Arkansas, where he was brought up on a farm. After his father passed away when he was 18, Kirby worked for International Harvester in East Moline, Illinois. Served in 1st Platoon. Wounded in action on April 8, 1967. Later re-enlists. After the war had several jobs, including as a crop duster before becoming a long-haul trucker.
Stancil, Wayne: From rural eastern North Carolina, Stancil had turned down a draft deferment and became one of the first replacements to join Charlie Company. Served in 1st Platoon and was wounded in battle on April 18, 1967. After recuperation Stancil was reassigned to an artillery unit where he had a run in with an officer who demanded that he not wear his Combat Infantryman Badge. After his service, Stancil worked for Orkin Pest Control, got divorced and remarried, and helped to raise a “flock of young ‘uns and a house full of grand young ’uns.” Now retired, Stancil works to help veterans who suffer from PTSD.
Stephens, Jim: From Morro Bay, California. After his mother left the family in 1958, his father was left to raise five children alone, resulting in some of the Stephens siblings being taken into foster care. After graduation from high school in 1965, Jim went to work for a local Sunland Gas Station to try to get a grip on what he wanted to do in life. Was drafted and served with 1st Platoon of Charlie Company. In October 1967 Stephens was transferred to the 3rd of the 39th within the 9th Infantry Division, after which he was badly wounded by a mortar round. After recuperation went to work for the California Department of Corrections and later into business with is brother. Vietnam remains a constant presence in his life; not a day goes by without him thinking back on the war.
Stephenson, Jim: From rural Marceline, Missouri. Worked for the Santa Fe Railroad and for Ozark Airlines before being drafted. Got married while on leave from training. Served in 1st Platoon. Located Don Peterson’s body on May 15, 1967. Wounded in action on May 15, 1967. Infused after June 19, 1967. Went back to work for Ozark Air, which was later bought out by TWA and then American Airlines. Retired in 2002 after suffering a heart attack.
Taylor, Elijah: From Highbank, Texas, where he worked on cotton fields until his family moved to Dallas. Worked at the US Post Office before being drafted. Served as a medic with 3rd Platoon. Infused in August 1967. Returned to work in the Dallas post office from which he retired in 2004. Married with three daughters, one of whom served in the Persian Gulf War.
Thomas, Ray: From the rural Choctaw reservation in Newton County, Mississippi. One of seven children; father drove the bus for the local tribal school, where they were not allowed to speak their native language. Went to junior college before being drafted. An early Charlie Company replacement, arriving in May 1967 to serve in 1st Platoon. Wounded in action on March 8, 1968. After the war worked for the tribe and later in a government post. Married Ruby and had three daughters and one son.
Thompson, Sam*: Fictitious name for the lieutenant who took temporary command of 1st Platoon, leading it into battle on May 15, 1967. Also led 3rd Platoon into a minefield while on temporary command of that unit during August 1967. By happenstance turned up at one of Charlie Company’s first postwar reunions.
Trcka, Don: From League City, Texas. Was the only student in high school to letter in all four major sports for all four years. Served in 3rd Platoon. Wounded in action on May 15, 1967. Dropped over 100 pounds while recuperating in the hospital. Married his sweetheart Beverly after getting out of the military. Moved to Houston where he worked as a director with a major auto sales firm from which he retired in 2006. He and Beverly now boast six children and 11 grandchildren.
Tutwiler, Guy: From Birmingham, Alabama. Drafted into the military in 1943 and went to Officer Candidates School. Served as a platoon leader in the 41st Infantry Division in the Philippines during World War II. Served as a company commander in the 2nd Infantry Division during the Korean War. Was a lieutenant colonel and served as commander of the 4th Battalion of the 47th Infantry (the parent unit of Charlie Company) during 1967. Retired from the military in 1976 and lived in Auburn, Alabama. Passed away in 2006.
Varskafsky, Bill: From Bremerton, Washington. Worked in a shipyard and got married before being drafted. His daughter was born the day that Charlie Company landed in Vietnam. Served in 2nd Platoon. After the war, returned to shipbuilding for the navy and retired in 2001 as Assistant Business Manager. Divorced his first wife three years after returning home, and two years later began a second marriage. He and his new wife, Cindy, now have seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Vidovic, Ron: From Tacoma, Washington. Dropped out of school in the tenth grade and worked in a gas station. Got married at age 19, had two children, and worked in a cabinet making factory before getting divorced. Served in 3rd Platoon. Was close friends with Tim Fischer. Wounded in action in August 1967, losing a leg. Returned to Tacoma and worked for 20 years with a company that manufactures school furniture, until the job became too physically demanding. Then worked for the Tacoma School District in custodial services. Married Rosemary in 1982.
West, David*: Fictitious name for a squad leader in 3rd Platoon who broke down in battle on May 15, 1967.
Wilson, Doug: From Huntington Beach, California. Went to community college, but surfed too much and dropped out, resulting in being drafted. Served in 1st Platoon. Kept a diary while in Vietnam. Along with John Bauler carried Don Peterson’s body from the battlefield on May 15, 1967. Was infused at the end of May 1967. After the war spent some time in the California redwoods before going to college and receiving a plant science degree. Managed a ranch for one of the biggest Kiwi planters in the country before becoming a grower-packer-shipper in his own right. Married Linda and still runs his very successful business.
Wilson, Ralph: From Andover Township, New Jersey where he lived on Lake Iliff and dreamed of growing up to own a bait and tackle shop. Came to 1st Platoon of Charlie Company as a replacement in May 1967. Wounded in battle on June 19, 1967. After the war went back to work in construction while dealing with issues stemming from his combat experience. Had two children, both boys, and moved to Williston, Florida. Retired in 2006.
Windmiller, Bernie: From Gary, Indiana. Was drafted in 1954 and served his hitch in the military before going to seminary and becoming a minister in the Evangelical Covenant Church of America. Married Esther and served as a chaplain in 2nd Brigade of the 9th Infantry Division. Helped care for the wounded in the battle of June 19, 1967. Rose to the rank of colonel before his retirement from the military in 1992. Worked in various interim positions in the Evangelical Covenant Church and became Executive Director of the Board of the International Association of Evangelical Chaplains, working to train chaplains all over the world.
Winters, John: Member of 4th Platoon. Killed in action on June 19, 1967.
Young, John: From Saint Paul, Minnesota. Went to college, but felt John F. Kennedy’s call to generational service and enlisted in the military. Served as a squad leader in 1st Platoon. Wounded in action on June 19, 1967. After the war held down many jobs before re-enlisting in the military. Was discharged in 1982 for PTSD. Got off alcohol in 1985 and received treatment for PTSD for the first time in 1993. John now resides in Picayune, Mississippi. In 1996 agreed to meet with a group of college students to discuss Vietnam, and this book was born.