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Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Rangers

Vice Chairman Sonny Bragg was seen by the Camp PA and it was determined he needed emergency medical help and was transported to NEGMC in Gainesville. Apparently the leg is not getting better. I do not have the room number but if you call NEGMC I'm sure they can get you in contact with him. When I get more info I will post.


Posted:
Name: Bob Suchke
Message: I saw Heinz at the Post Office today and told him that he was on the most wanted list. His phone number is: (678) 316-6679

Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: re: hank ketchum, if anyone has hank's phone number or email, call me at 678 936-5448. sorry for the repeat msg, but it is imperitive i get in touch with hank. see everybody at the meeting thursday!...rltw....ted

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: I need some help from the Dahlonega area Rangers.

Co-Chairman Sonny Bragg needs a ride to his Doctors appointment on Wednesday. I am in school and can not get away this week. ANyone who can assist please contact Sonny or email me and I will assist in the linkup.

Thanks Rangers

Steve


Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: just got an e-mail from emmitt hiltibrand. he is moving but he wants to get in touch with hank ketchum. i saw hank at the cco so i know he is in the area. emmitt wants his email or i can give him emmitts'. great to have all our wia's back in the hunt....rltw...ted tilson

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: I'm glad to hear from Doug Perry. We're all accounted for now. Doug, I'm doing well, enjoying my semi-retirement. These days I work as much as I used to be off and I'm off as much as I used to work. I think I finally got it right. Everybody reading this message, please, take care of yourselves. Doug Perry says we're getting older but we're still dangerous. You can't stay dangerous if you don't take care of yourself.

Posted:
Name: doug perry
Message: Hey Rangers: I am back, I have not got my e mail set up yet but you can post on this until i do.For the last six weeks it has been pretty tough, but thats is because of the GOOD living I had in the earyy days of MRC.Mike Flack,how are you doing.Suchke and D J hang in there maybe you will get one of these QUADS..RLTW...

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: Hey everyone! The 2011 season of Relay for life is just upon us and I want to start this year off early in order to get people to join me and walk for what I call walking for "War Caused Cancers". You hear of Agent Orange and Mesothelioma concerning our men and woman who have served in our nations military. Please support our soldiers by walking with me during the 2011 Relay for Life. Please come by Casha Hair Studio on Thursday 2 SEPT 10 at 6:30pm for our first meeting! If you are unable to attend, please let me know if you are interested and I will pass on the information to you. The Relay for Life walk is tentatively scheduled for 25 & 26 March 20ll. Thank you for you and your service...love you all!

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: Judas Priest, they're dropping like flies up there. Bob Suchke, I'm glad you're doing better. DJ, I'm glad you're okay, hope they find the problem whatever and wherever it might be. I haven't heard from Doug Perry lately, but no news is good news? Everybody else reading this message, listen up! No more casualties, ahh-ight?

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: DJ

I could have told them that a stroke was an impossibility for you. Glad your OK though.

No, there will not be an overhead at the monument.

Steve


Posted:
Name: DJ
Message: Ya'll might have heard I was in the hospital. I was. First the thought I had a stroke. Wrong.. then they said it was a TIA ( small stoke). Wrong.. they got 2 1/2 days of money from me and Judy to tell us they didn't know what went wrong. I did tell them I didn't have a brain so stay off my case Hawk..

Are they going to build a over head cover for the monument a Pinevally?


Posted:
Name: ron rice
Message: i received a surprise in the mail today after 44 years. My air medal w/2 oak leaf clusters. 75+combat hours over RVN. One more medal to go. I rescued a crashed chopper crew from war zone D using mcguire rigs in nov 66. hope fully i will get that one soon. Also, army times said the problem with the threats and explosions were from Benning support troops. Still, it gives MRC a bad rap.. RLTW Ron (Ropes) Rice

Posted:
Name: Bob Suchke
Message: Last night a program aired on TV about Ranger School. It was called "Surviving the Cut" and it was a very good program. Col Flohr was in it as well a some other notable instructors. All phases were covered in the hour long feature and I believe it was an accurate representation of what today's Ranger student goes through. I say well done! As for me, I am doing much better and offer thanks to all who have called or were concerned about me. My strength is returning and I hope to be fully functional soon. All the best. Rangers Lead the Way!

Posted:
Name: Steve Woodring
Message: Just wanted to say it was nice to be at the camp last week. I had a beer at the overhang which was the first time I have ever found it open and had a nice chat with a couple of old rangers. Good Times!I usualy stop by every year when we stay in Blairsville. Just felt right! RLTW

Posted:
Name: Johnny
Message: Roy that gig I told you about is a go..... give me a call.... 678-617-9238

Posted:
Name: amie close
Message: I knew I heard an explosion yesterday ! I thought we were back at Ft. Bragg! even my dogs heard it but Roy an Gus did'nt because they were cutting grass , but atleast I know I was'nt hearing things.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: OMG guys - this is NOT good! via AJC online: Three soldiers are under arrest in Dawson County after they allegedly threw military explosives into a crowd at a parking lot, Channel 2 Action News reported Sunday. No one was injured in the early morning incident, in which the soldiers allegedly tossed two ground burst simulators at people at a grocery store parking lot, the TV station reported. The explosives are used in place of hand grenades in training exercises. According to the website globalsecurity.org, the ground burst simulator is used "to create battle noises and flash effects during training. It produces a high-pitched whistle that lasts two to four seconds. The detonation produces a flash and loud report." The men are based at Camp Merrill near Dahlonega, Channel 2 reported. They fled north on Ga. 400, and when police drew near they tossed 11 of the explosives beside the road, WSB reported. Camp Frank D. Merrill, about 12 miles northwest of Dahlonega, is the home of the 5th Ranger Training Battalion, where soldiers are trained in planning and executing small unit combat missions in mountainous terrain, according to globalsecurity.org. The training includes "mountaineering skills, small unit tactics, patrol infiltration and exfiltration, raids, ambushes, and other skills required for close combat and direct fire missions," according to the website. The soldiers face numerous counts of aggravated assault

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...last night's meeting had some welcomed faces back and some absences noticed...all the good advice for self-maintenance makes you wonder how your own adventure will be...all of us want each brother to have the best life available and to enjoy each day as a gift...

...having the end of cycle overhang blast later just got the camaraderie between the young lions and us old rogue elephants even better...

...promotions all around for those in attendance, especially Skinny Bob and best wishes for those who couldn't be there except in spirit...

...RLTW!...evahday!...

Mark...770 366 4838


Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Fellow RAngers;

Ranger Jimmy Rawlston is having some rough times. His wife was recently diagnosed with a form of lukemia and is undergoing treatments. She is out of work and of course Jimmy just retired. There is a blood drive taking place at Dahlonega PArk and Rec on August 6th to help out, I understand it is an all day event. Also Rangers if you feel you can help financially, please send to USMRA and we will get the money to the family to help with expenses. Jimmy didn't ask for the help, you know he wouldn't, but this is a time for a RAnger to help a brother.


Posted:
Name: Sharon Hall
Message: ROY OR AMY CLOSE - I am having a terrible time getting in touch with Al Brashier. I have a ton of info on Earl Singletary for an article on their induction into the Ranger Hall of Fame, but only the bio from the program for Al. Doug Perry tells me Roy knows how to get i n touch with him and that he could also tell me a tale or two. Please contact me at 706-864-5842 or iamshall@yahoo.com. I have to turn the article in on Monday, so I will be working on it over the weekend. RLTW Sharon Hall

Posted:
Name: Sharon Hall
Message: Am fixin' to write an article on our local Hall of Famers Earl Singletary and Al Brashier. Anyone out there who would like to tell a tale, make a comment on their service to be considered for inclusion, please shoot me an email at iamshall@yahoo.com by Saturday evening, July 17. I'd be delighted to hear from you guys! Sharon Hall The Nugget

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message: 7066261350 3rd Batt S5

Posted:
Name: horkan3
Message: Got through to the Regiment Duty Officer, Capt. Norman, who was kind enuogh to give me the information I needed. Thanks. gah

Posted:
Name: horkan3
Message: Does anyone here have a phone number for 3rd Ranger Bn.'s S-5 shop? I've tried looking on the net but haven't found one. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I can be reached via my personal e-mail address: gahorkan3@firehousemail.com. Thanks in advance.

Posted:
Name: Johnny Quest ( aka Don HUghes)
Message: Good news today Bob Suchke is to be released today from the Gainesville Hospital. He requests that visitors bring fresh produce and fish for his new diet of no Ying Ling beer. He is in excellent spirits and enjoys your concerns of his brief indisposition. He plans to return to his livelyhood of firewood and tree business with moderation. It's a great day for the Mountain Ranger Camp Association and it's devoted members and followers. RLTW JQ

Posted:
Name: Tom Wilburn
Message:

Although currnetly OCONUS on a short deployment my thoughts and prayers are back home with Doug and Bob; best of luck in a rapid and full recovery.

I was not able to attend the Ranger Hall of Fame ceremony but wanted to say thanks and congratulations to Rangers Singletary, Edmunds, and Brashier. These men help make our country and especially the mountains of North Georgia the best place in the world to live, even in these troubled times. Each of them has given more to our nation and the Army than most folks will ever know, and they have never asked for anything in return. Enjoy this great honor; you have earned it!


Posted:
Name: Jim Regan
Message: Great to hear that Earl was able to attend the ceremony. Thanks Wil' for being there. Do you have a copy of the Talk/Speech Earl gave? I'd love to read it. Seems as if we have had several of the folks from "our era," Dec '69- May '71,recognized as Hall of Famers!!! Makes me even more proud to have been among you fellows! Best wishes to all and 'specially you guys that are "struggling!" I have a "prayer list" that's a mile long, with lots of Ranger Buddies included! Stay Professional, Keep chargin' Hard, and have some fun while you're at it!!! Jim RLTW

Posted:
Name: Willard Langdon
Message:

I was in attendance today as Ranger Earl Singletary was inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his distinguished service to our country. Even though he wore portable oxygen, he gave a touching speech.

Afterwards, at Michelle's brother's house in Columbus, a reception was held in Earl's honor, complete with plenty of food and a camouflaged cake.

Earl and Michelle had a happy and rewarding day, and I'm glad I could share in it.

RLTW


Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: This message just received and I'm passing it on: The Clear Creek Committee for Commitment to Excellence just met and voted 5-3 to wish Rangers Suchke and Perry all best wishes and a speedy recovery.

Posted:
Name: Don Hughes (johnny Quest)
Message: Bob Suchke is resting in Gaineville Hospital room 3445. He requests a few days of rest before entertaining all of his friends who are concerned about him. They put in 1 stint but right now he needs rest and he's exhausted. He looks forward to seeing everyone again.

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Rangers

Ranger Bob Suchke is in the Gainesville Hospital, the victim of a Heart Attack. I have no details at this time. If anyone has further please post

Steve


Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: Can we get a report on Doug Perry? Thanks.

Posted:
Name: Jim Regan
Message: Am here in Henderson, Ky for the "Fourth!" In talking w/ my B in Law, Gary Littrell(SP) was here recently and addressed some town folks along w/ another MOH guy. Sorry I missed him,have not seen him since May '71. Understand he's in FL someplace.

Break, break, has anyone heard from Bobby Meadows lately? How's Earl Singletary doing? Sent him a card. Still remember the days of flying out of Wimpy's in his cessna and "trying" to skydive!!! Never could break the habit af 'Bending at the waist" when I pulled!!!

Sorry to have missed the CCO, will try to do better next year. Best to all and "Happy Birthday America!: Jim RLTW jregan@insightbb.com


Posted:
Name: Willard Langdon
Message:

I visited today with Doug Perry at the Ronnie Green Heart Center at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville. He's doing well after quadruple heart bypass surgery yesterday morning. He looks well, has good color, and they may move him from CCU to a regular room tomorrow.

If all goes well, he may go home Sunday, but most likely it will be Monday.

Based on what he told me, he made it to the hospital just in time. He's in good spirits and wanted me to share this good news with others.

RLTW


Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...appears to be some skulkin and sleuthin to water down the intensity levels of what is the most exclusive gathering of men since the fortress of solitude days...

...hmmm, sounds like a job for S1...

...so unknown to most, impossible for the rest...by authority of "the last walk award", circa '80...I declare by all the power invested, divested and requested of me...the ~***Order of the Rangerus Scrotimus Giganticus Maximus, Third Oak Leaf Cluster with 'V'device for Viagra***~, to be awarded to any and all Camp Frank D Merrill Army Rangers who survived here one day or lots...and who got the TAB!

...if you gouged here you can't forget what the TVD can do to ya...

...if you don't feel at home in the NCO Club, or if tying a bowline seems strange...

...then you ain't one of us...we know it...you know it so let it be known...

...the word is said...~***Order of the RSGM***~ Award Ceremony during July USMRA meeting, where...

...if you're not there to defend your honor, we always choose the sick, aged and refirmed to talk about first...then the more senile of the membership present...

...so next time, be there for the ORSGM...hmmm...could swap the 'G' and 'S'...we'll vote on it...

...if it didn't happen in the mountains, it didn't happen...

RLTW...'nuff said...

Mark


Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: to all who use this format to recruit some and exclude others. i quess my service in the army rangers don't count for membership in the, 'order of rogers rangers'. steve hawk and brian williams, please do something about these disrespectful attempts of some to use this site for something other than what it was intended to do. i am insulted by these atempts to recruit certain members and not others. you all know how thin-skinned i am. i am a usmra member, period, and i think all our correspondence should revolve around those topics that interest most if not all usmra members, period!!!....rltw.....ted tilson

Posted:
Name: "Order of Rogers Rangers"
Message: The "Order of Rogers Rangers" is a special recognition and tribute, to those NCOs who did many years with one or more of the modern era Ranger Battalions, or the Ranger Regimental HQ.

If you are a retired NCO in the pay grade of E-8 or E-9, and you did many consecutive years, or completed more then one assignment to the Ranger Regiment, you can get further information by going to the "Order of Rogers Rangers" email address.

Please go to: orderofrogersrangers@yahoo.com for more information. This is limited to those who are Service Retired with 20 or more years of Active Duty Service, and with many consecutive years, or multiple assignments with many years, to one or more of the modern era Ranger Battalions, or the Ranger Regimental HQ, between the years of 1974-1999.


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thank you Ed. I had the easy part. All I had to do was scratch my head and talk "stupid" which is real easy for me to do. Jonnie, the Editor of ANET did all of the hard stuff. Again, thanks.

Posted:
Name: Ed Tinoco
Message: Ranger Mattison, Hope you had a good Father's Day. Also, wanted to congratulate you on the ANET 203 "Stories behing the stones"...Joseph L. Mattison I just got the e-mail with your picture from then (1976) and now. Take care, Ed

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Happy Fathers Day Rangers! Thanks for what you did.

Posted:
Name: Bud
Message: Happy Birthday Army!! Hope this finds all well.RLTW!

Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: mark jordan, first rule of a ranger.....don't lose nothin',....if you cannot recover your rare, much coveted papa co. coin.......i have another, like an ole ranger once said to me......'always have a back-up.....plan or whatever....we'l conduct linl-up ops at a upcoming usmra meeting so stay in touch.......rltw..... teddy bear tilson

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

Steve Bishop...call me please...I have a plan...

...and another matter...someone done stole my coin...I have searched since the Fish Fry...til 5 am that night and all thru my truck too...it has been stolen...worse than a remote, much worse...

Ted Tilson, man of few words that he is, honored me with some words I'll never forget...and Roderick witnessed it all...

..."you were an officer with the heart of an NCO"

...nothing has honored me more...ever...

...Ted and Terry pull out a Papa Ranger Co coin and give it to me...

...and for the rest of the night, keeping JQ from missing his ezra, listening to all the good stories, I kept my hand on the coin...so appreciative of the day...

...as I avoid snores I find a cot with no one too near and pat all my pockets, getting ready for sleep...

...no coin...

...seriously, the coin was not with me...

...so I search my steps til 5am...Steve Bishop is up for the breakfast at 4...

...so...should the person who found my stolen Papa Ranger coin be kind to alert me, I will forever be in your debt...harumpf harumpf...that's all I got to say... *RLTW* Mark


Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: I agree with Bob about the story on Brian;

Headlines London Post.

Army Ranger assualted by London Street Gang. Ranger Brian Cunningham, a US Citizen was assualted last night by a noted London Street Gang. After brief but violent afray, Ranger Cunningham was found standing over the misshapened bodies of five gang member, he later told police where they could find the other bodies. 10 more gang members later walked into local hospital for treatments ranging from severe to treat and release. Ranger Cunningham was heard exclaiming that while he was at it, he was going to find a few BP executives and kick thier asses also.


Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: The Ranger Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremoney will be Friday July 9, 2010 1:00 pm at the Bill Heard Theater 900 Broadway Columbus Ga. I hope to see you all their.RLTW

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: This scam has been going around for about a year now. My wife got one from a female "friend" she had just talked to. Same exact text. And I agree with Bob; they would have trouble with Brian.

Posted:
Name: Sasquatch Smitty
Message: Jeeze, I feel stupid. I sent Brian 20 bucks.

Posted: 6/15/2010
Name: Bob Williams
Message: The image of Ranger Cunningham writing "with tears" in his eyes, and just the idea that this Ranger was "mugged" is laughable. A truthful account would have, no doubt, been accompanied by a report of several Brits having taken a severe butt whoopin.

Posted:
Name: Christopher Piland
Message: Mike Flack: Hey thanks brother.........I am e-mailing you at the moment...I am pretty excited to see all of the pics of everyone....RLTW!!! As far as that" Ranger in distress" email from London,ENG. HMMM...I did serve in 2ND LRSD in S. KOREA with a Brian Cunningham from 3rd Ranger BN....but I highly doubt its the same Ranger...I would have to agree..stay far away from that response...:o

Posted:
Name: Franklin Murphy
Message: This a Big Time Scam!!!!!!!!! Stay away. Stay Alert! RLTW

Posted:
Name: Willard J Langdon
Message: Did anyone else get this email message today? Do you think it's legit? Can someone verify? From: Brian Cunningham [mailto:ranger270@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, June 14, 2010 5:44 AM Subject: My Horrible Experience!!! I'm writing this with tears in my eyes, I came down here to London, United Kingdom for a short vacation unfortunately i was mugged at the park of my way to hotel where i stayed, all cash,credit card and cell were stolen off me but luckily for me i still have my passports with me. I've been to the embassy and the Police here but they're not helping issues at all and my flight leaves shortly from now but am having problems settling the hotel bills and the hotel manager won't let me leave until i settle the bills, I'm freaked out at the moment -- Brian

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: Christopher Piland, sent me an e-mail with your address and we will be happy to send you a copy. RLTW!

Posted:
Name: Christopher Piland
Message: To Mike Flack: How do I go about getting a copy of the dvd w/ all of the pics from this last CCO and how much $$$ do they cost. I would love to eventually make it to a critter cook out and see everyone once again. I know Al Parten can work a mean grill!!! hehe RLTW......WHOOAAA!!!

Posted:
Name: Robert Hunt
Message: How can we donate Photos? Cordially, Robert Hunt

Posted:
Name: Bob Suchke
Message: Wow! I just received my CD's in the mail from Mike and Judy Flack and I am almost without words. Not quite though. This is a great collection of photos of the past Critter Cookout 28-29 May. It is professionally assembled and presented in such a way to preserve the memories of those good times for the future. There are so many occasions when I've wished I had a camera and didn't. Thank you both so much for taking the time and expense to give all of us old Rangers something to fondly look back on in the years to come. You guys are tops! All the best. RLTW!

Posted:
Name: Bob Suchke
Message: Joe, You got it. Anytime. All the best, RLTW!

Posted:
Name: joe amerling
Message: Bob Suchke I need a load of hickory aslap 678-300-4064

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: p.s. Judy didn't ask me to say this, but I wanted each of you to know what a pleasure it was for her to do all of this. She enjoyed taking the pictures and making the DVDs, but more than that she was truly honored to be with you. RLTW!

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: Today I put 71 packets in the mail to those of you who signed up for pictures and DVDs at the Critter Cookout. My wife Judy took over 1,000 pictures, then culled them down to a few hundred. Those pictures are on one DVD that you can use to download individual pictures, send them to friends by e-mail, or just for looking. The other DVD is a series of slide shows with music to memorialize the weekend. If anyone has a problem with any of these, please, let one of us know. The picture DVD should work in any computer and the one with the slide shows should work with any DVD player. Older computers might have a problem, but that should be pretty rare. If you need help with anything, Judy's e-mail address is jflack@sc.rr.com and mine is mikeflack@sc.rr.com. It sure was a pleasure seeing everyone and was a truly great weeekend. I think the festivity and brotherhood come through on both DVDs. All the best to each of you. RANGERS LEAD THE WAY!

Posted:
Name: Order of Rogers Rangers
Message: The Order of Rogers Rangers is pleased to announce the special recognition of those Rangers who faithfully served in one or more Ranger Battalions or the Ranger Regimental HQ for numerous years. The Order of Rogers Rangers is a special and select group of Noncommissioned Officers who gave a career of Rangering with the 75th Ranger Regiment, and as such, significantly contributed to the present day Ranger Battalions. For those who served with multiple assignments to the Ranger Regiment, or who served many years in one of the present day Ranger Battalions, you are requested to contact the Order of Rogers Rangers. Please go to: Orderofrogersrangers@yahoo.com for further information. You must be a retired E-8/E-9 with a multiple history of assignments or a long serving NCO in one of the Ranger Battalions, as a Noncommissioned Officer, serving in the role of Fire Team Leader, Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant, or Command Sergeant Major. This is a special recognition group to those who have served faithfully with many years in one of the Ranger Battalions, or with muliple assignments to one or more of the Ranger Battlions/Regimental HQ. There are many who served, but there are only a few who made it a career. This only applies to those professional Ranger NCOs who served with one or many of the Ranger Battalions/Regimental HQ, from 1974-1999.

Posted:
Name: Tom Joyner
Message: Thanks to everyone for a great Critter CO..My first & definately not my last..Thanks to Steve,Hawk,Perry and any others I missed. Great organization & I appreciate all of you responsible for making it happen. Great to see all the Old guys...Hughes, DJ, Honeyeager, Tilsons, Sucheke, Cunningham, Fast Eddie & Many Many More!! RLTW

Posted:
Name: Bob Suchke
Message: Steve Bishop is really one of the hard driving forces in the Mountain Ranger Assn. He is always there working, cooking, contributing his hard earned money and continuously doing those things that need to be done behind the scenes to make all the many events successful. I don't think anyone works harder. My hat is certainly off to Steve (and the others) who worked so hard to make Critter Cookout such a tremendous success. Steve works tirelessly to help others and I am very much appreciative of his fine efforts. Thanks again. RLTW!

Posted:
Name: Jeff Everett
Message: Have a comment I feel compelled to make. I watched Sgt Bishop go nonstop Ranger style at this last Critter Cook Out, this is a public Whoa for the work he did. I remember the impression he left on me when he was a SSG in the mid 70's. Interesting how 35 years later he's still leaving impressions of 110% and then some... Not that others didn't pitch in just as well. My "Black" Beret is off to Steve Bishop for a job well done.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: For Joe Nowak: Joe, Please go "direct" to me by email when you get a chance. jjmattison@verizon.net

Thanks, Joe Mattison


Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Peney, an Army medic, had recently graduated from Ranger school, according to his Facebook page. Peney had been married for less than a year. :-(

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...AJC..."An Army Ranger from Marietta was killed Tuesday in Afghanistan, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. Spc. Jonathan K. Peney, 22, died in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when he was shot by enemy forces. Peney was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hunter Army Airfield in Georgia."

...funeral arrangements may be local...

...May God's ORP be full of happy Rangers...

Mark


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: SPC Peney, Combat Medic, D Company, 1st Ranger Battalion, killed in action on 1 June, Afghanistan. He was killed while moving to render aid and assistance to a fellow wounded Ranger. "Rangers Lead the Way".

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: To All former Rangers of 2nd Ranger Battalion: I ask you to contact by email the current roster and records keeper of all of us former members, Ms Sherry Klein. Her email address is: sherrymcklein@gmail.com

She is now ready to begin the data base for all members who served with 2/75 starting with 1974 through present.

Her data base is the primary data base that all of us are using when we are attempting to make contact with fellow Rangers who we served with.

Again, her email address is: sherrymcklein@gmail.com

Thanks Rangers


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Aww, don't kid me George, I happen to know for fact that you pulled me around with a sling rope a time or two. But I'll never admit it!

Posted:
Name: horkan3
Message: Joe, As you well know, I zombied as an instructor too. Had to share the rusty machette award with some other lucky sole though I can't remember who. Taught me a lesson though. Stay safe, gah

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: George,....were you a Ranger Student or Ranger Instructor at the time? hahahahahaa...cough,cough. Joe

Posted:
Name: horkan3
Message: Franklin Murphy. Ranger class 3/76? Started Oct. '75, graduated Dec. '75? If so, I was in that class. I'd have to go back and check my records. Memories not too good anymore. We zombied in the mountains. Cold rain the entire last 4-day patrol. When we started back down to the camp it began snowing. I gotta check this out. George

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...there is an unmistakable brotherhood of mutual appreciation and respect between the young Rangers, in the mouth of the lion today and those who stood in the gap in Vietnam, Korea and WW II...sons listen to fathers and to their grandfathers...much like Native American warriors...

...the mouth of the lion is ever present, but the heart of the Ranger remains as strong as ever!...

...having the CCO weekend like this...without Open House gave the entire Ranger family to have some seriously good memories made...

...my personal appreciation for the support from 5th RTB from the CO to the recycles...

...I hope we keep it always inhouse so from now on we are particularly able to continue this brotherhood and fellowship!...

...RLTW...Mark


Posted:
Name: Brian Cunningham
Message: Let me take this opportunity to thank all of you who have served our country.

And let us all take the time to remember those who have given their lives for our country.

Undoubtedly, each of us knows someone, or perhaps many, who have fallen while in service to our country, in its defense. Just take a moment to think about them. Remember they were someone's son or daughter, father or mother, a loved one. They were our brothers and sisters.

"Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends."


Posted:
Name: Franklin Murphy
Message: Arrived at Cabin here at Neels Gap will be coming to cook-out saturday just wanted to make sure there had been no changes in activities etc. Thanks RLTW 3/76

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Fellow Rangers, CPT Bucci, the "Project Officer" of the 3/75 Memorial Expansion Project is still requesting further information concerning the Deaths of 7 Rangers who were killed in Training while assigned to 3/75.

If you have any information with regards to 1. What Company they were assigned to. 2. What kind of Training Accident. 3. Location of Training accident.

He would appreciate your help.

You can go to him direct with any information that you may have, and his email is: Buccic@soc.mil or you can pass any information that you have onto me, and I will forward it.

The purpose of this request is to fill in the "Historical Section" of the 3/75 Roster.

The following Rangers Killed in Training, but the "general history" of that incident have been lost are:

PFC Neil Secor, Killed in Training, 22 Nov 1987

SGT Alan Johnson, Killed in Training, 29 Dec 1987

SPC David Hughes, Killed in Training, 3 Sep 1988

PFC Toby John K.P. Young, Killed in Training, 28 Jan 1991

PFC Michael Foley, Killed in Training, 11 Jul 1991

PFC Alvis Hicks, Killed in Training, 22 Sep 1993

PFC Ward Benson, Killed in Training, 2 Apr 1994

Thanks Rangers,

Joe


Posted:
Name: ron rice
Message: doug perry it was good to see you at MRC (CFM) last week. i last seen you 41 years ago. sorry i did not recognize you at first. when you called me "uncle ben" that resonated with me and i had not been called that for 41 years. Take care of yourself. all of us old Rangers are dying off. RLTW uncle ben Rice

Posted:
Name: Brian Cunningham
Message: 2010 USMRA Scholarship Committee Selections

After due consideration of the applications, it is the decision of the 2010 USMRA Scholarship Committee that Ms. Erin Keogh and Mr. Clay Williams be recognized as the winners for 2010. Each of these exemplary students will receive a $500 scholarship award.

Erin is the daughter of Ranger Charles Keogh. Clay is the son of Ranger Bob Williams.

Respectfully submitted:

Ranger Keith Antonia

Ranger Brian Beckno

Ranger Brian Cunningham

RLTW


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: As an update, we are now down to 8 Rangers who were killed in Training with 3/75. If anyone knows anything about any of the Rangers who were killed in Training...(see previous post with names and dates killed), then please give me a email. We narrowed down the first one on the list today...PVT McDavid. Thanks Rangers...."Rangers Lead the Way"...Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: George, the short and long of that is: I don't know. Each of the Ranger Battalions have their own Memorials, and they were started long before the Ranger Regiment became activated, and as such, each have their own criteria. 3/75 elected to put both Killed in Training as well as Killed in Action onto their Memorial from the beginning. If I were to guess, I would suggest that the reason...might be, the 1/75 Memorial was created long after 1SG Schmidts death, and when they created it, they "maybe" didn't know the of 1SG Schmidt. Yes, I remember the accident very well, and I remember him on a Gurney at the old Ft Stewart Hospital when we would drop in to visit with him from time to time. His wife died shortly after his death as well, which I guess, is the "rest of the story". I would suggest contacting Bill Acebes about this. If you don't have his email, go "direct" to me, and I'll foward it onto you. Bill Acebes had a lot to do with the "upgrades" to the current 1/75 Memorial. Perhaps he can answer your question. Bill was also there in 1/75, when 1SG Schmidt was injured. Bill was in B Company,...and a SSG/Squad Leader. The injury was a result of a Parachute Jump onto a "Rock Quarry" (I think) at Ft Leonardwood. I remember the Jump and the DZ and I do remember all of the rocks and bolders,...buy hey,..I was a lowly PFC or SPC at the time, and where-ever my Squad Leader went, so did I...which was Bill Acebes. I hope this gets you onto the right track with the question. Take Care George...Joe

Posted:
Name: horkan3
Message: Joe, you and some of the rest here might remember the "original" 1st SGT of Charlie, 1/75th, Jack Schmidt. When we jumped into Leonard Wood, Mo. he and the guy that went out the door in front of me collided under the aircraft, got entangled, and then dropped about 300 feet. Top Schmidt was paralyzed from the neck down. Got promoted to SM in his sick bed. About 2 years after the accident he died of complications due to his injury. 1st RGR Bn is not carrying him on their list, or the memorial, of members killed in action and training. I can't figure out why and all they'll say is they aren't going to recognize him. Does anyone on here have a clue as to why they would do that. Even if was 2 years after the fact he died of complications as a result of his injuries. Am I missing something. I'm dang sure frustrated. Thanks for any help. Stay safe, George

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Fellow Rangers: These are the 9 remaining Rangers from the 3/75 list that needs to be clarified and updated. They are listed by Date of Death and Name. All of these 9 were killed in training while in service with 3/75. The only information requested are three things: 1. The Company that the Ranger was assigned to. 2. The location of his death...example: Ft Benning, Dugway Proving Grounds, Ft Bragg, etc,. 3. Situation of death....examples: Parachute Accident, Drowning, Vehicle Accident, Demo Range, Live Fire Exercise, Fast Rope, Fall from Building,..etc. If anyone can help, in order to clear up the "Killed In Training" Roster of 3/75, it would be greatly appreciated. The following Rangers by Date who were Killed in Training are: 20 Sep 1984 PVT Westley B. McDavid, 22 Nov 1987 PFC Neil Secor, 29 Dec 1987 SGT Alan Johnson, 3 Sep 1988 SPC David W. Hughes, 28 Jan 1991 PFC Toby John K.P. Young, 11 July 1991 PFC Michael K. Foley, 22 Sep 1993 PFC Alvis Hicks, 18 Oct 1993 PV2 Christopher Brown (we think he was killed on a Demo Range at Ft Benning?), 2 Apr 1994 PFC Ward Benson. If anyone can remember: 1.Company that the Ranger was assigned, Place that the Ranger was killed, 3. Brief summary of how the Ranger was Killed, we certainly appreciate your support. This information is to be used by 3/75 only for Historical Purposes, and to give clarification to the names that are carved into their current Memorial Stone. You can contact me with any information that you have at one of the two following email address: jjmattison@verizon.net or rangerjoeusara@yahoo.com Any information, even if it's only a part of it, will be greatly appreciated. Perhaps between many of us, we can finally put closure to the 3/75 Killed In Training List, and the memory of these Rangers. Thanks. "Rangers Lead the Way"....Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Two Corrections on my last post...Ken Ellis and Mike Kelso, and helping on this project. Yep, it's early in the morning and I'm "on duty". I guess I'm getting a little tired. Sorry for the typos.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Fellow Rangers: If you served in 3/75 between the years of 1984 to 1999, please contact me at: jjmattison@verizon.net (or) rangerjoeusara@yahoo.com so I can email you a copy of the Killed in Action and the Killed in Training Roster that 3/75 currently has on hand. So far, the following Rangers have received the Roster: Sam Spears, Mike Kelos, Joe Nowak, Al Brashier, Tony Lewis, John Edmunds, Mark Ellis. It's not as easy as it appears. Between all of us, we put in a small piece of the puzzle, which in turn sparks a memory in someone else, which in turn becomes a picture. If you can help us in anyway with trying to solve the history of the Killed in Training portion of the roster, it would be greatly appreciated. All 3/75 wants to know are three things: 1. What Company was the Ranger assigned to. 2. Where was the Ranger at when he was killed. Example: Ft Benning, Antelope Island, Utah, Ft Bragg, etc,... 3. How was he killed. Examples: Demo Range, Parachute Accident, Drowning, Live Fire Exercise,..etc. We are currently down to the last 9 names on the Roster and we are really beginning to scratch our heads at this point because many of us weren't in 3/75 at the time that the accident happened. We need your help Rangers. Please contact me at either of the two email addresses above and I'll mail you the roster. Lastly, does anyone know how I can get in touch with Mike Ramsey by email. He was a First Sergeant of C Company, 3/75 at one time, and may be able to help. Thanks Rangers....Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks Joe....Thanks! List is on the way,...from: rangerjoeusara@yahoo.com.

Posted:
Name: Joe Nowak
Message: Joe, E-mail me the list,if'n you would. I'll take a look and burn some brain cells from my time there. jnowak@windstream.net

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Hi George, They were Chippewas,...and I still have a pair. They last forever. Joe

Posted:
Name: horkan3
Message: Anyone know if the Mountain Ranger camp still issues instructors mountain boots and, if so, what kind? When I was there in 81-82 they issued a boot that reminds me of a Danner boot but about 6 inches in height. I'm sure Joe, Hawk, and a few others on here remembers them. Stay Safe, George

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: You're right Joe, he is with JROTC in South Carolina. Dale Osterloh was kind enough to get us in touch. Tony says that he's doing well. We are working on that roster that I previously posted and a couple of other things as well. How are you doing Joe?

Posted:
Name: joe amerling
Message: Tony Lewis is I believe working JROTC in South Carolina saw him in December, Willie Nunez may have his contact numbers.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: As a final "foot note" to my previous message, there are a total of 50 Rangers who have died while in service with the 3rd Ranger Battalion, since 1984. Two (2) KIA: Operation Just Cause, Panama, Six (6) KIA: Operation Gothic Serpent, Somalia, Thirteen (13) KIA: Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan, Thirteen (13) KIA: Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraq, and Sixteen (16) Killed in Training. Of the Sixteen Killed in Training, there is missing information on ten (10). Anyone who can help with filling in some missing information is welcome to contact me for a copy of the list. Any help would be greatly appreciated. If you know someone who doesn't ordinarily read this message board, I ask you to also pass this information on, if you think they would be able to help. Again Rangers, thanks for what all of you did, and for what you do now. Lastly, thanks for supporting the 3rd Ranger Battalion Memorial Expansion project. Every dollar really does count. They are out of room on their current Memorial Stone. Now you know why. "Rangers Lead the Way"....Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Fellow Rangers: I'm being asked for some help in attempting to clarify the "Killed in Training" Roster that is maintained by 3rd Ranger Battalion. They've done a pretty good job of maintaining the Records from the late 90s onward, but those Killed in Training prior to that, are "lost". They have the names, and they have the years, but they don't have what Company the Ranger was assigned to, and they don't know where it was, that the Ranger was killed, while training with 3/75. If anyone has any recollection of Rangers from 3/75 who were killed in Training at any time, and would like to help with this project, I would be very happy to email you the list, that was sent to me from 3/75. I've been able to pin down a couple of the names, but to be honest with you, many of them were killed in training during those years that I was back in the Mountain Ranger Camp, and I don't have that kind of memory anymore. I'd love to hear from Rangers who served with 3/75 from 1984-1998. I'll email you the list as I received it, and you can look it over, to see if you have any rememberances, on those who were killed in training with 3/75, during that time frame. Thanks Rangers. Joe

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Jerry good to hear from you.John is a great Ranger, he was an E-5 when we went through Ranger School. He served with a Mike Force in VN and was shot up pretty bad. He went on to get a commission, then flight school and retired a LTC. When you talk to him again tell him to give me a call I lost his phone number...Are you going to be at the critter cook out? I'm sure there are a lot of old Rangers that would enjoy swapping lies with you. RLTW

Posted:
Name: Jerry Roberts
Message: Earl Singletary, I met your Ranger Buddy, John Bradford. He lives in Katy, Texas. Well, I haven't actually met him I spoke with him on the phone. He seems to be a very nice guy.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Got it. Thanks.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Does anyone know how I can email or contact, First Sergeant (R) Tony Lewis? He was a First Sergeant with 5th RTB in 1997/98/99. jjmattison@verizon.net

Posted:
Name: steve hawk
Message: We will be having an auction at the critter cookout. If you have any antiques or military memorobillia or something you think a Ranger would buy, bring it, donate it and lets sell it. All proceeds go USMRA General fund. See you at the cookout!

Steve


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: CPT Kyle Comfort of D Company, 3rd Ranger Bn was KIA on 8 May in Afghanistan. There have now been five Rangers from 3/75 killed in Afghanistan during this rotation. We ask for your support in the expansion effort, of the 3/75 Memorial. Please see the previous message left on this site from a few days back. CPT Comfort was a Fire Support Officer, from Alabama, and he leaves behind a wife and child. "Rangers Lead the Way" Joe

Posted:
Name: ron rice
Message: i am going to Ft Benning for a reunion later this month. I have some pictures from th 1960's that i will drop off to the Camp Sgm. RLTW Ron (ropes) Rice

Posted:
Name: Bill Miller
Message: Fellow Rangers, I just got off the phone with Nancy Powers regarding Ranger Jack Daniel. Nancy says Jack has recovered from the bout with pneumonia and this past week has told his physical therapist that he wants to start working on walking again. She also says he seems to have gotten his old Ranger Spirit again and making good progress. She also said that he will read his email so if you can send him an email. rangerjsd@aol.com I will see you BDQ in Charleston on Monday.

Posted:
Name: Christopher Piland
Message: TO RANGER JOE NOWAK: Hey thanks alot brother...I found that resource page you were talking about. I am gonna save them to my flashdrive and print them later. very useful indeed. also I found this surpising but the ballistic chart that comes on the match grade ammo I am shooting was actually very acurate. Now all I need is to score a newer copy of the latest" RANGER HANDBOOK" They sell them here at the army surplus store but they cost like $20.00 to me thats alot :(..whahaaa I did find a printable version on-line, but thats a lot of pages to save and print...just need one for my SWAT gear bag, plus I am writing a book (fiction) post-apacolyptic setting and there are some useful survival techniques that can be described in my book. THANKS....RLTW..!!!

Posted: 5/6/2010
Name: Webmaster
Message: The events of Saturday, May 29th are as follows:
1600 - Fallen Ranger Memorial Road dedications & Scholarship awards
Upon completion - USMRA Meeting and Planning Bay dedications
Around 1800 - Eat the critters

Posted:
Name: Webmaster
Message: 7:00 pm at the NCO Club

Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: anybody, what time is the usamra meeting begin tonight....rltw....ted tilson

Posted:
Name: Al P.
Message: Thank you to all for the best wishes for Britt and Cody, beautiful wedding, close family. Most of you have known Britt since she was a baby, Now she is a Bride, gotta move Cody out 0845 Fri. to Bliss. Thanks again, I am a little stressed now, so bear with me. Sua-Sponte !

Posted:
Name: Joe Nowak
Message: Chris Piland, If you go to the Leapuold site under resources, there is down loadable 10 page document called the Lepould Ballistic reticule document or some such. Talks ad nasuem about it all. Failing that I would call their customer service and talk to a real person and see if they can't hook you up. They have pretty good CS.

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: Ross, all the best to you. The last time I saw you, I told you that Danny McKnight was working on his book. He says that the book and movie Blackhawk Down are good, but they don't tell the whole story. His book will tell the rest of it. It is due out any time.

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Al, congratulations to Brittany. Didn't she just get out of high school? Sorry I won't be able to make the reception, got some issues right now. Best of luck to Cody. 400 days in Afghanistan sounds like a prison sentence. You! Boy! 400 days in the hole!

I will be unable to attend the CCO this year, but I will be there in spirit. Treatments against the beast will conclude in the fall and hopefully I will be able to participate again. In the meantime I'm working slowly on another book. I miss you guys, but I'll be back.


Posted:
Name: 3rd Ranger Bn Needs Our Help
Message: Please Contact: Ranger Assistance Foundation PHONE NUMBER: (334) 652-5087 or the 3rd Ranger Battalion S-5 (CPT Bucci) at: Buccic@soc.mil Thanks Rangers.

Posted:
Name: 3rd Ranger Battalion Needs Our Help
Message: The current Ranger Memorial outside of the Battalion Headquarters, of 3rd Ranger Battalion, needs expanding. The current Memorial Stone that is there has the names of all Rangers Killed In Action or Killed In Training while assigned to 3rd Ranger Battalion. With regret, the stone is running out of room for additional names to be added. As most of you know, each of the three Ranger Battalions maintain a Memorial to their fellow Rangers who died while in service to their Ranger Battalion. It is done to preseve the names and the memories of those who gave their lives as Rangers, with that Ranger Battalion. Like all Rangers, 3rd Ranger Battalion isn't any different and they aren't going to ask for help, but they are having a "Raffle". The Raffle is for one of two prizes to be drawn on 1 June 2010. The Raffle Tickets are $10.00 each and the prizes are: One (1) Limited Edition, .45 Cal. M1911 Pistol, or a "Signed" Limited Edition, James Dietz Ranger Print. You can contact the organization direct who are selling the Raffle Tickets at: Ranger Assistance Foundation, P.O. Box 6243, Columbus, Ga. 31907, or you can contact Captain Bucci, the 3rd Ranger Battalion S-5 by email at: Buccic@soc.mil for further information. There isn't much time on this Rangers. As most of you know, the 3rd Ranger Battalion will be coming home soon, and they have four (4) names to add to their Memorial. Please help.....please. Thanks Rangers.

Posted:
Name: Christopher Piland
Message: TO Joe Mattison: HEHEE HEE....I'll tell you what brother....If they would let me....I would have just that very thing...and some AC-130 doing some serious "Death from above" on these heroes here in Mexico...hehe....! But until then...I'll just manage with what I have for now....the search will go on though....:)

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ted Tilson: Gosh Ted,...I hope you cook better then you did back in the days that we spent "many a meals", up on Hawk Mountain!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: For Ranger Piland: All of that "stuff" is a little too technical for me. I suggest you consider swapping out that rifle, and getting a Mark 19. That should solve all your range and accuracy problems.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: For Al: Congratulations on the up and coming wedding, and best to you and yours regarding Afghanistan. Time goes by very quickly, and it seems like only yesterday, that they were kids. It's been a few years hasn't it. Take care Al.

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Any one interested, Britt is geting married at 1600 tommorow. Cody is going to Ft.Bliss Friday at 0745 then to Afghanistan for 400 days. We have a Wedding and reception on Heritage road just past Home Depot on 60, the old christmas tree farm. Brick house. All of you are invited, I have 30 lbs of pulled pork 25 lbs spare ribs, 15 lbs tater salsd, 15 lbs beans, 10 lbs cole slaw, and hot wings from roosters. Come by if you can, BYOB , and food.

Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: mike, from what i gather all the cooks, etc., will be there the 27th of may to set-up the cooking areas and to acquire all the logistic support needed.. fish fry is friday afternoon around 1400 until complete...sat morning around 0530-utc breakfast as well as the completion of the cooking phase of the cco. serving times are up in the air at this point. the final schedule will be determined at this thursdays usamra meeting hosted by steve hawk at the cfm nco club. i'm not in charge but will assist in all ways i can. be advised.....this msg was not sanctioned by anyone but me. all official information should come from my ole buddy steve hawk , (or big doug perry)....rltw......and currahee....ted tilson

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: Does anyone have a schedule or info on the CCO? What's happening Friday and Saturday? When will the Planning Bay honors be presented? Anything at all would be helpful for us out-of-towners. Thanks.

Posted:
Name: Christopher Piland
Message: Hello again I just wanted to ask a quick question to any Rangers out there still " Dealing Death from a Distance" if so, I need help. I have a problem, I am the marksman on my respected SWAT team. I have already shot the rifle that has been collecting dust in our SWAT arms room for the past 8 yrs. I effectively zeroed the optics on it, but unfortunately it is not like the 10x mildot leupold we had in the US ARMY. It is a Leupold Variable-x III 3.5X10 TACTICAL model. I am making head shots at 500 meters, but past that Kentucky windage has me doing these high speed Einstien type formulas in my head, due to the fact that someone lost the users manual and I am just using the wisdom gained as a sniper in the US ARMY. The ??? is does anyone know how I could score the users manual for this type of optic??? I already went to the main website on-line at " Leupold" they give me some specifics, but do not go past that :( In my defense it was a very windy day here in S. Texas and I could see vapor trail using a spotting scope and i was missing the head shots by just a hair or two. Given the fact that the drug violence has gotten to be very bad here lately, I just want to be back on top of the game in regards to long distance shooting. Any kind of advice or help would be greatly appreciated.....thank you....RLTW.....!

Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: does anyone have any info on the 2010 best ranger competition. it begins may 7 and ends with the buddy run sun 9 may but that is all i know so far. who from the 5th rtb is competing? i am going down fri the 7th and will be staying at the airport hoiday inn so if anyone wants to go and needs a ride get in touch on this website asap!......rltw....ted tilson

Posted:
Name: Historical Moment
Message: Historical Moment: 30 April, 1975 was the final day of US presence in the Republic of South Viet Nam. At 0459 hrs, a USMC CH-46 Radio Call Sign "Lady Ace 09," lifted off from the US Embassy in Saigon, with the American Ambassador aboard, to an awaiting US Naval Carrier. The last helo flight back into the Embassy Compound, was to evacuate the final members of the USMC Embassy Guard. Thirty five (35) years ago.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: For those of you who new him, Colonel (R) Hargadine, former Intelligence Officer of 2nd Ranger Battalion, as well as numerous other Intelligence and Covert/ Special Operations Assignments, was buried on Friday, 30 April, at the Kansas Veterans Cemetary, Ft. Dodge, Kansas. Colonel Hargadine was a Combat Veteran of Viet Nam, and served in numerous assignments in the Intelligence Community during his career. He was 62 years old. My regards and condolences to his family, friends and those who served with him. "Rangers Lead The Way."

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Amie I still work at Lumpkin County High School JROTC. I just sent you an e-mail. Google Lumpkin COunty JROTC for our webpage. Steve

Posted:
Name: Joe Nowak
Message: Aime, e-mail Steve Hawk,I'm pretty sure ya'll know him. He works at or did the JROTC in Dahlonega. Haven't seen him a while.

Posted:
Name: amie close
Message: Does anyone out there have any info on the JROTC program at Lumpkin Co. Highschool and also do they offer a summer program? we will be moving back to Dahlonega in June and our son is active in the JROTC program here and he will be going to LCHS for his senior year so if anyone has any info please let me know Thanks Amie Close

Posted:
Name: Roy Close
Message: Joe you can do it! You would look real good wearing a little pink apron, might up the attendence too!

Posted:
Name: Joe Amerling
Message: I just spoke with Al and he said he was not attending the CCO. With that in mind is there a cook plan?

Posted:
Name: c. piland
Message: HI GUYS I just read that Al Brashier is living in dahlonega once again.If someone see's him anytime soon, pls let him know that I said "Hello". I lost contact with him after I left Alaska. What ever made me move there in the first place after I left Ft. Bragg is way beyond me, now I remember....it was my ex-wife :( anyways I still owe him a very large number of push-ups from when we were stationed there in Dahlonega,GA. I do remember that he and the ultimate sgt. Wilburn were very good friends...I do miss there wisdom and knowledge.I would also like to extend a big "Hello" to everyone else at the USMRA ...just graduated SWAT school and my job carrer after the US army keeps me very busy, I dont get on-line often....OHHHH...I was very pleased to hear about Noriega....thats what he gets.....I would like to make it to a critter cook out sometime..that would do me some good......RLTW...

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: For all Rangers and especially those Rangers who participated in "Operation Just Cause", Panama, 1989-1990 there is an update concerning our favorite "Dictator." Manuel Noriega (age 72) has just been extradited to Paris, France where he will face trial for Money Laundering. Noriega was released from US Federal Prison Custody and immediatly flown to Charles De Gaulle Airport, where he was taken back into custody by French Authorities. His trial for Money Landering in France is expected to begin in appx. 2 months. He is still wanted (through extradition) by the Country of Panama, to begin serving a 60 year confinement for charges he was found guilty of in "absentia," in Panamanian Courts while he was serving his US Federal Conviction in Miami/Dade Federal Prison, for the past 20 years. Good job Rangers! Our favorite Dictator is still behind bars, and may be sent to "Devils Island" or where-ever the French Penal System is kept these days. If not, there's always the Coiba Island Penal Colony, Panama!

Posted:
Name: US Army Ranger Association
Message: US Army Ranger Association is pleased to announce the opening of it's new website. ranger.org is the easiest way to find it's webpage. There are currently 1056 members of USARA of which, 738 are Life Members, 293 are Annual Members and 25 are Honorary Members. Membership dues are: 1 yr $30.00, 2 yrs $50.00, 3 yrs $80.00, Life Membership $250.00, Life Membership over age 65 $200.00, Life Membership for anyone with 100% Disability is FREE. All Active Duty personnel in pay grades E-4 and below $20.00 per year. Much like this interactive website, USARA also offers a directory of it's members, but you have to be a member in order to access the personal information of other members. The personal information includes: Home Address, Phone Number, Email Address, former Ranger Unit Assignments, and areas of Combat Experience as applicable. There is a members Discussion and Topic forum. The ability to locate members is arranged in three ways: Alphabetical Search of all members, Search by State, and Search by USARA Region ie...Northern, Southern, Central, Western and International. Membership application and criteria for membership is available on the website, and joining with dues payment, is also available on the website. A very good historical section of Ranger History as well as current Ranger events and news are continuously updated. You're invited to visit us at ranger.org the website of the US Army Ranger Association. This is an interactive website for all Rangers, of all eras, living Combat Veterans of all Wars and Conflicts, as well as Rangers who are successful graduates of the US Army Ranger Course, with service to non Ranger Units. If you're wondering where is....., there's a chance that he may be a member, and if he is, will be listed in the Directory. This is an "All Ranger" Association with respect to all Rangers, of all eras, War Time and Peace Time. There are other sources of information also posted on the website, anywhere from Ranger "Links", to job opportunities, as well as College Scholarship funds only for Rangers and their immediate family. The US Army Ranger Association prides itself in conducting an annual convention known as "Annual Ranger Muster", (ARM) and it's location changes every year so that all members are afforded an opportunity to attend at least one, every few years. USARA brings the Annual Ranger Muster to your Region, which allows members to attend an event every few years, with it being somewhere, fairly close to where the Region Members reside. Last year, the ARM was at Las Vegas, this year the ARM will be in San Antonio, and next year, the ARM will be in Savannah. The year of 2012 will be somewhere in the Northern Region, and presently it looks like either Boston or Philadelphia, (yet to be determined, and still in discussion at this time). The ARM further prides itself on being a "couples" event in that, during the Annual Ranger Muster, Ranger with Spouse of "significant other"...(not both), is invited and special events are also planned for the "other member" of your "buddy team". You're welcome to check us out.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Two more Rangers of 3rd Ranger Battalion have died in Afghanistan. Two Rangers from Delta Company have died of wounds from a fire fight. There are now a total of four Rangers who have died on this rotation with 3rd Ranger Battalion. "The boys" are still "down range." Please keep them in your hearts and your prayers. thanks..."Rangers Lead The Way."

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I had a young OEF/OIF Veteran come into our VA/ED a few weeks back who showed me an interesting internet site. Go to: anysoldier.com Then go to the tool bar across the top and select: "News & Stuff." After the scroll down pops up,...scroll down to "Video Corner". Up will pop numerous videos. Some are interesting, some are sad, some are funny, and some are pretty exciting. My personal favorite is: Helo Thunder. There is also a pretty good one entitled Paratrooper. Take care Rangers,...Joe

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: HOUSTON....we have a problem...

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I'm happy to report that the State of New York is in the final phases of acquiring the portion of land that was occupied by Roger's Rangers at Fort Edwards. They intend to continue the historical archaeological dig that is currently ongoing at that site, and bringing in the Ranger Museum under NY State Control and Supervision. Fort Edwards is located on an island in the Hudson River north of Albany and south of Lake George. This is where Ranger "life" as we know it, all began. The State of New York is in the process of resurecting that site, turning much of it into a State Park, and perpetuating the history of Major Robert Rogers and his Rangers, in honor of all Rangers who have served both with Rogers and all the way up to present day Rangers in Afghanistan and Iraq. To my knowledge, this is the first Government Funded Public Park that will exist for the dedication and rememberance of all Rangers, starting with Major Robert Rogers and his Rangers of the French and Indian War, 1756-1762. Congrats on 1000 members Steve.

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: We now have 1000 members

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: SSG Patton, 3rd Ranger Battalion died of injuries sustained from a crash in a UH60 on 18 April, in Afghanistan. SSG Patton is the son of a Retired Army Command Sergeant Major. His wife and children are currently residing at Ft Benning. My regards to his family, and friends. "Rangers Lead The Way." I ask that "the boys" be included in your prayers, they are very busy right now, and they are still "down range". Yes, there was a ford onto the airfield and it's still there. They used the ford that's next to the Club that's on Camp as the primary way onto/off from the Airfield. There is also another ford at the northern end up near the old baseball field for access to and from that area of the airfield. The current location had a small foot bridge where there used to be a small damn for the old Water Treatment Plant. Prior to that, it was a water access area for routine things such as cleaning etc,...back during Tent City. I got all of that from one of the Water Treatment guys who used to work there, years ago. I don't remember the name, but they were a father/son team who did different shifts keeping the water plant operating.

Posted:
Name: Steve HAwk
Message: Sharon

I was told that it was a ford before the bridge was put in. Looking at the 1957 photo of the camp it does not show the bridge. In fact it appears to be a solid woodline seperating airfield and main camp


Posted:
Name: Sharon Hall
Message: PS - Does anyone recall what the guys did BEFORE there was a bridge there? Sharon

Posted:
Name: Sharon Hall
Message: Hey, guys - Sharon Hall from the local newspaper, The Dahlonega Nugget. I am writing a story on no Open House this year, kind-of featuring the old wooden bridge leading to Mosby air field, which has carried so many tons of traffic for so many years and held up so admirably despite no concrete pilings! They made 'em last, back then. RTLW! If there is anyone out there at Camp during the days the bridge was built, or anyone that has a particularly good story to tell about the bridge, please contact me ASAP at the above email address. I will be working on the story over the weekend, so need to hear from you soonest. I also have the phone number of the old bridge's engineer, and plan to call him and the engineer for the new bridge to get its specs. I'll put that in the article too. Blessings on the day, and thanks in advance for any help you can give me, Sharon (Ross Hall's other half)

Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: way to go earl! congratulations on your well deserved selection into the ranger hall of fame!.....never give up is the only way to be. al parten, steve bishop, steve hawk, peewee, and doug, get in touch at 678 936-5448, or etilson273@aol.com regarding the fish fry and the critter cook-out. heard from j. quest, he said he has honeyacre talked into coming. what do you know, three papa co. rangers getting planning-bay signs. anyway i'll be there the afternoon of the 27th and will help with the breakfasts and the fish-fry, and anything else chief perry can think of.....rltw....ted tilson

Posted:
Name: Owens
Message: ** Congratulations Earle...Well deserved Honor....... JIM

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Four Comments: (1): Yes Ross, I think your're right. It is my hope that others will read my story about that event, and send all of their Ranger Buddies the same gift that I received. That way, over the span of the next year or so, I'll know in my heart that the great joke, has been reciprocated in kind. Thanks Ross...and like you, I don't feel a day older. (2): Ranger Patrick: I don't know about the accusation that you make, but if it's true and the Leadership of this Organization can verify it, then you can bet that the individual you state will be removed. USARA just had a similiar incident with a former member as well who (I believe if I have the story correct), altered his DD 214 along with his application for membership. It was also discovered and appropriate action was taken. (3): United States Army Ranger Association has officially launched their NEW WEBSITE today. To get to it, "google" up: ranger.org and it will have direct access. Joining USARA is now available "on line", managing your personal information and membership profile is now available, and a "Comments" section is accessible for Members. I really do like the good, solid work that went into this. Michael Ranger of USARA who is also the Webmaster put in a lot of work, making the USARA website better, and for those who are already members, you'll see the improvements once you "sign in". (4): My regards to the family and friends of the Ranger (CPL) who recently passed away as a result of an aircraft crash in Afghanistan. Details not to be posted here other then he was a member of 3rd Ranger Battalion, a Corporal, and will be buried at Arlington. I ask all to remember, that "the boys" and their Leadership is still "Down Range". Please keep all of them in your prayers. Thanks. "Rangers Lead The Way."

Posted:
Name: Patrick
Message: Just wanted to bring to attention a serious error on the Mountain Ranger member roster. Their is a member on their a SGT Simon Christie that is a fraud! This liar was just chaptered out of the Army for wearing among other things a unauthorized Ranger Tab he never earned. He also never once served in the Royal Commandos like his write up states. Could the site manager please remove his name form the roster of real Rangers.

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Joe, that had to be an I.C.D.--an improvised corn device, probably sent by a Lt. Kernal. Anyway, happy birthday. I hope you're older than me.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: So, I get this box in the mail today. It looks like a box that might have a book in it. The address said "Ranger" and then it said Fort Benning, Ga. I open the box, and out pours about 2 million pop corn kernels all over the kitchen floor, which is quite a show in itself, but then I look inside and there's an envelope. I pull it out, open it up, and it says..."Happy Birthday". No signature on the card. Only a Ranger would do something like this. Good joke! hahahaha...YOU GOT ME! Thanks for remembering my birthday, anonymous Ranger. I'll have to remember this one. Take care "Ranger". Joe

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: I've interviewed about half the RHOF Inductees, some great stories there. The one I enjoyed the most was done with Ranger Raymond Noel Dye. He has an astounding story set in North Africa, Sicily, Italy. Buddies with the great James Altieri. I have a photo of Noel showing me a picture of him in Altieri's book. These are all good men, solid individuals and I am blessed to have known them.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: For: Al Brashier, Congratulations Ranger Brashier!! I just learned that you are still residing in the Dahlonega area. This particular list of Ranger Hall of Fame is especially gratifying to me with: John Edmunds, Al Brashier, Earl Singletary, Ranger Voyles (original 1/75), and Mike Kelso. All were great Rangers, during their time on Active Duty, and we owe them a huge debt for their service in Peace Time and in War Time, and most importantly, for "taking care of the boys." This year was a "Grand Slam!"

Posted:
Name: A Parten
Message: Mark, home e-mail : alparten@gmail.com

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...yo Ted 'the Man' Tilson, to answer and propose another fine mess of an idea -

...my recalling Keith Antonio's most excellent April Fools joke was just that...no selling CFM and no females being students...

...but he did it so well...ask anyone there, the man said it too well...Steve Hawk raised his hand as a subscriber to the Army Times even...

...just remember, you can lie to all others about us and all, but seriously please...don't lie to another Ranger...there's a ...an entire civilization depending on us alone for all answers to any questions asked or yet to be...

...ya know?...

...so order of business prppsal from the lowest ranking individuals...

...Conner Mountain...

...there is private land on a place that all Rangers walk over during patrols at MRC...up Conner to Sassafras and back...

...land that can be purchased for a Mountain Ranger Memorial used as a cemetery where Ranger tabs adorn each marker, sorta like at Benning but with the black and gold tab and name, rank, dates as identification...

...basically a living memorial but a place where a lot of us may like to be laid or scattered and smothered someday...

...a reliable source said the land was in foreclosure so who knows, if there's interest I'll look into it more...

...just a thought...congratulations to those honored in the Ranger Hall of Fame...we walk among heroes...

...one more thing...is there a way to get a press pass or something to get some awesome Best Ranger Competition pictures?...

...and Ross, it's about time for us to ponder for awhile and Al Parten, honor grad of 6-80, I need your expertise, please...

...RLTW, nice weather or not...

...Mark


Posted:
Name: Webmaster
Message: CDC Job Opportunity

Posted:
Name: Steve Johnston
Message: Congratulations to all those selected, particularly those who are members here (I believe there are four) and to Carmen J. Cavezza--my Battalion Commander 35 years ago in Korea.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Thanks to all of you for your kind words, especially you Ross I always knew I could count on you. This is a great honor for an old Ranger. RLTW Earl

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Congratulations to a great group of Rangers. Earl, I knew when I told them you were homeless they'd choose you.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Congratulations Earl, and to the others. I know many of them, and all are good choices.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Congrats Singletary! I wish Manly Mason was here to see this...he'd get such a kick out of it. But I'll step in for him and say - a very good man was chosen. RLTW.... ~C

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Congratulation Earl, you deserve it, Congrats to Al, Mike, Eugene, and everyone else, this is a good group of Rangers. I'll be there at the ceremony. Steve

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: 22 Rangers were nominated. The following 14 Rangers have been selected for the Ranger Hall of Fame; Ranger Jared Bates Ranger William Block Ranger Al Brashier Ranger Carmen Cavezza Ranger Raymond Dye Ranger John Edmunds Ranger Joseph Gagnon Ranger James Jackson Ranger Michael Kelso Ranger Gary O’Neal Ranger Joseph Palastra Ranger Earl Singletary Ranger Eugene Sullivan Ranger James Voyles

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ted, Great Hearing from you, and yep, I think we do have that hole dug out down by the airfield. Quite and incredible story isn't it. It's in the last Army Times that came out. Unbelievable what some will do. Like they say, there's always that 10% of any Unit or Organization. Glad to know that the Trout are biting. Still a little too cold here, but next month, it will be time to get right into the middle of the Genessee River and bring in the "Brownies". Good luck with the Critter Cookout, and when your ready to buy Camp Merrill, let me know, and I'll throw in with you.

Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: hey mark and joe, what are you guys jabbering about? maybe i'm getting old but i can't decipher the previous 2-3 comments. i read the army times but i must have missed the article you are referring to. as for the d--khead who was using studs for his home improvement project; someone ought to take him and his chain-of-command out back and shoot them, don't wait 'til dawn but do it now! hey joe,, do we still have that hole dug under that pretty oak tree across from the airfield? that's my answer to this crap about g.i. jane! what's this about getting rid of frank d. macho? anyway i'll bet me and joe amerling can get a consortium together and buy it, then we can have all the critter cook-outs with bonfires any time we want to resurrect old ranger traditions. also for all you fisherman out there, trout fishing is back and are they taking the bait, i'm catching my limit before 0730 hrs each morning i go out. again, i'm in for the fish-fry and the critter cook-out this year, also, how about another old-fashioned doug perry run auction for a fund-raiser at the critter cook-out. give my best to ranger jack daniels, we really need to cherish rangers like that as they don't come along very often......honor and integrity....rltw....teddt bear tilson

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Update on the US Army Ranger Association: The Home Page of that organization is available by going to ranger.org If you go to that home page now, you'll notice that it hasn't changed much. The new home page which is just about ready to "go live" will be significantly different. The Computer "wizz" of US Army Ranger Association is Mike Ranger (yep, that's his real name for all you "youngsters" who don't know him. Viet Nam Vet, and former RI with the "Ranger Department".) Bob Williams of this Organization (USMRA) did such a great job in setting it up, that it's become the envy of many others who would also like to set theirs up in a similiar and like manner. US Army Ranger Association under the skillful computer ability of Mike Ranger, is just about ready to "Go Live" on their new home page. For those who are members, you'll note that there will be a "sign in" section on the home page which will give you access to the membership information, which will not be readily available to the General Public. Like this home page, Members will have a message board, personal email to each other within the web site and many other features. Each Ranger/Member will have a short Bio of who they are, and where/when they served and where they are currently located by mailing address, phone number and email. If you are a member of US Army Ranger Association, I ask you to periodically "google up" ranger.org until you see a new home page. Take a few minutes and get logged in, then update your personal information which will only be visible to other members. I think you'll like the new US Army Ranger Association home page, once you get in, and play around with it. To Bob Williams,...you set the "standard for others to follow," and they are. Good job Bob.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: That's good Mark. It brings back a memory of when a female Officer once graduated the SF Qualification Course, which I believe was sometime back in the late 1980s. Yep, she really did, and to this day, I don't know why she was even allowed to enroll, but she did, and she graduated. I don't know the rest of the story. I don't know where she went after that, or what she did. Lost in history. I have an update for those who are also members of the US Army Ranger Association, and I'll make a separate message for that.

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...Standing Rules for Rogers' Rangers...particularly, #4...     

Tell the truth about what you see and do.  There is an army depending on you for correct information.  You can lie all you please when you tell other folks about the Rangers, but never lie to another Ranger or to an officer.

...personally I am just now able to respond to a guy who has my absolute belief, especially when he does his command voice stuff, that he knows what he's talking about...

...short version, as presented at the last meeting of the USMRA, last Thursday...*** Back hidden on page 12 of the most recent Army Times was an article about FY'12...

...due to perceived cutbacks and to allow females to (I can't even say it now...but, you know...letting GI Jane in Ranger School)...

...AND, if THAT just don't rochambeaux your family crackers enough, get this!!!...(tears and snot starting to sniffle)

...to accomodate such a retrofit, the Benning and Florida phases would be lengthened and the Mountain Camp would be closed saving millions***...

...*that just ain't right* was my first thought...

*well, that totally proves the Mountains have always been the Big Decider between making the grade or...falling just a little bit too, ever so slightly too short to earn the coveted Black and Gold...

...*we could buy the place and never have to concern anyone again about our plans for the infamous Critter Cook Out*, was my third thought...

...then, once again speaking, Mr Bearer of Cardiac Stress himself, Keith Antonio, says something about April Fools right before my head hits the floor...

...*sheesh* some things you just don't kid about...


Posted:
Name: Sasquatch Smitty
Message: Hey Joe, I got your back if you decide on returning to active duty!!!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Wouldn't that be fun. All it takes is one single and very Stupid Ranger, to do a very stupid thing, to dishonor the good names of all Rangers of all times. You'd be right there with me Smitty, and we'd be accused of having PTSD which would be the equivalency of some one else's nightmare!

Posted:
Name: Sasquatch Smitty
Message: I think we need Joe to come back on active duty to square this away.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ok, so I open up my latest issue of the Army Times what what do I read on the cover page: "Home Improvement, Ranger Instructor Fired For Using Students To Work On His House."......What the heck is going on folks? Does this sound like a nightmare from my past, and the experience that I walked into back in 1996, at the MRC? And many of you thought I was smoking way too much hemp when you read my experience as a CSM on my final assingment to Camp Merrill. Guess what,....now reality is staring the "naysayers" right in the face. Could this be a direct result of appointing a CSM from the National Guard to be the 4th RTB CSM?.....or could this be a direct result of the Command Climate of the current 4th RTB Commander or the Command Climate of the RTB Commander...Colonel Fleur? Where the heck is the adult leadership? Who is watching the "chickens"? Are we being as stupid as we can be? Ross,....are you ready to publish another Ranger History Book of the Ranger Training Brigade and all of the frustrations that the genuine leadership went through during periods of extreme idiosy? Why are we so good at sweeping the shit under the rug? Nuff said...have a good one! Joe

Posted:
Name: tom wilburn
Message:

Mr Wages, Glad to hear ya'll were able to visit Jack. Is he well enough to receive calls, and if so, do you have a number? I am forward deployed but would like to at least give him a call. Thanks, Tom


Posted:
Name: Robert Wages
Message: Bryan Hall Jackson and I visited Jack Daniel at Park West Hospital in Knoxville where he is recovering from bacterial pneumonia. He is still very ill, and remains stubborn about cooperating with the hospital staff. I ask if he had any message to deliver back to the USMRA members and his strong reply was Rangers Lead The Way! Please remember Jack in your thoughts and prayers.

Posted: 4/2/2010
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Rangers,
Here is the final word! Trust me…
The 5th RTB Open House has been cancelled for 2010.
The Annual Fish Fry will be conducted at Camp Merrill on the evening of May 28, 2010.
The Critter Cookout will take place at Camp Merrill on May 29, 2010, with a late afternoon (1700hrs) USMRA meeting.
The Fallen Ranger Memorial ceremony will take place on the afternoon of the Critter Cookout but prior to the meeting.
All of these activities will be near the Camp Merrill NCO Club.
The Ranger Run will take place on May 29, 2010 but will be conducted out of Camp Wasega.
FYI: The next Open House is on the schedule for May 7, 2011.
Thanks for your patience.

Bob Williams
USMRA Webmaster

Posted:
Name: Amerling
Message: Roger that!

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Critter Cookout and fish fry are still a GO

Posted:
Name: Amerling
Message: Regardless of the open house being a go or not is the critter cook out still on?

Posted:
Name: Bill Miller
Message: Received a call from Nancy Powers (Ranger Jack Daniel) significant other informing me that Jack is back in the hospital with Pneumonia and a blood clot. Apparantly he is not doing well but wants to stay in touch with his Ranger family. Give him a call if you have the time.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: You can now add the Commandant of the Marine Corps and his comments with regard to a newer and more socially acceptable "don't kiss....(I mean)....."Don't ask/don't tell" policy. Sempre Fi. As for all of the rest of them, who don't have the intestinal fortitude to step up and be counted, and lack a back bone....probably "Eunichs," or possibly, don't "kiss and tell," themselves".

Posted: 3/26/2010
Name: Marie Towner
Message: We were previously stationed at 5th RTB and would like to rent or sell our home. Here is a link with photos: http://dawsonvillehome.shutterfly.com Please pass along to incoming soldiers or your friends. It's a touch market and we really appreciate your help from one Ranger Family to another - Thanks!

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: NEWS FLASH----NEWS FLASH----NEWS FLASH

I have no offical word yet but I recieved word that the Open House has been Canceled agian. I am awaiting word from Camp Command on the reason for the latest decision.

I will wait to POST anything further.

Rangers, keep your knees bent and flexable.

Steve


Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: My apoligise for lack of info. ASSUME has raised it's head and cast a shadow, I will take the NO-GO.

Easter egg hunt begins at 12:00 Noon, be there a little early if you young one needs a basket.

0-1 YOA hunt first then 2-5 YOS, then 6-12 hunt.

Hamburgers and hotdogs served after that.


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: As many of you might have already read, LTG Benjamin Mixon (North Georgia College Alumni), is now in "hot water". He expressed some personal views with regard to the current pressure on the Military to revise the "Don't ask, don't tell" Policy and make it more liberal for persons of that sexual persuasion, to join the military. I don't have the answer one way or another at this time. I was a CSM back in the early 90s when this first raised it's head during the Clinton Administration, and I got to see the points of the argument from both sides, from the troops, not from the press, but getting back to LTG Mixon. I have had the pleasure of serving with him for many years in the past. He was the "original" Company Commander of C Co. 3rd Ranger Battalion in 1984. We later went on to serve in Italy together, where he and I were a part of the "startup" for Task Force Lion which entails many Combat Units built around the current 173rd (then it was 3/325 ABCT). He later went on to Command that Airborne Combat Team. He later Commanded all ground forces in Northern Iraq under Generals Abizaid and Petraeus. The norther sector of Iraq was very quickly secured and maintained in that capacity during his Command Time of nearly 2 years or so in that sector. In his younger "Field Grade" days, he was the Operations Officer for Maneuver, 101st Airborne/Air Assault Division during the Persian Gulf War of 1991 and he is the son of a retired Command Sergeant Major with lots of Airborne and Combat experience, most notably with the 101st during the 70s and before. LTG Mixon is now the Commander of US Forces Pacific. His comments were printed in the Stars and Stripes, and has recieved much attention from the Chief of Staff, General Casey (who I think is a tanker by career track), and regrettably, the Secretary of Defense. Apparently, General Officers aren't allowed to have a personal opinion, conveyed publicly. His loss will be a loss to our Army and our Nation. "And the Caissons keep rolling along."

Posted:
Name: Johnny Houston
Message: Anyone know what time the Easter egg hunt starts.... I saw that there is one only no one posted any information

Posted: 3/23/2010
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Rangers

There will be an Open House this year. I got word late this evening. Dispite there will be no bridge to the Airfield. Demonstration may take place at the lower area. Coordination and planning are still underway, but the Open House on May 29th. 28th is a go as is the Fish Fry on Friday night at the club and the Critter Cookout on Saturday evening.

LTC Stone, Major Beckno have worked hard to find a solution. I'm sure the community is happy that the Open House will occur as it has come to be as one of the most recognised events in Lumpkin County ans the surrounding area. Gentlemen , well done.

We Ranger find no obstical insurmountable.

Also the Easter Egg Hunt is this coming weekend. I will have all needed material at the Club on Thursday night, Peewee will cook and Steve Bishop, Steve Caldwell, Jeff Everett and Gary Head will take care of the HUnt.

Call my cell phone if you need me.

Rangers Lead The Way

Steve


Posted:
Name: Brian Cunningham
Message: This is a reminder that 2010 USMRA Scholarship applications are due NLT 30 Apr 2010. The winners will be announced at the Critter Cookout and checks will go out right after that. Please see the qualification details and my address on the USMRA web page under the Activites/USMRA Scholarship link. RLTW.

Brian Cunningham, Scholarship Committee 2010


Posted:
Name: Brian Cunningham
Message: USMRA Annual Ranger Planning Bay Naming Honors 2010

Pursuant to the constitution of the USMRA, especially that part which states: “…to honor and support those who are in keeping with the highest RANGER TRADITIONS,” once again this year, we establish this day to honor those veteran instructors who have served with distinction here at CFM and are still serving as members of USMRA.

Each of these men has served as an instructor here at CFM or other historic locations of mountain Ranger training. Each honoree has devoted himself to service of our country in peace and in war. Each has trained those Ranger students under their charge and instilled in those students the highest traditions of the Ranger legacy, selfless leadership and the desire to serve our country.

Every student who attends Ranger training here at Camp Frank D. Merrill participates in a planning phase before each training operation. Within the confines of CFM, the planning is conducted at one of six structures located throughout the camp that are known as planning bays.

To mark this occasion, today we are placing a sign on each of the six Ranger planning bays to honor this year’s six veteran Ranger instructors who are still serving, each in his own way.

This year’s honorees are:

RGR Thomas Brock ‘70

RGR Roger Honeyager ‘70

RGR Donald Hughes ‘70

RGR William Miller ‘70

RGR Ted Tilson ‘71

RGR Edmond Nelson ‘71

USMRA would like to extend our thanks to the Commander, 5th Ranger Training Battalion and CFM for his support of this project. We look forward to working with him and those under his command in this and other cooperative endeavors honoring and supporting those who are in keeping with the highest RANGER TRADITIONS.

2010 Honorees: Please send me a brief (one page limit) bio that will be posted along with your signs in the planning bays. Thanks. RLTW

Brian Cunningham

ranger270@gmail.com


Posted:
Name: Ray Schuetze
Message: To Jim Quirk: I would be pleased and honored to talk to you in reference to your father's service at Camp Merrill! He served as the Camp Sergeant Major whilst I was the Camp commander and he was truly a fine soldier and leader. He was able to consistently bring out the best attributes of every individual with whom he came in contact. My 'phone listed by Bill Miller is correct...I would be glad to talk with you! RLTW

Posted:
Name: Bernie Larson
Message: Hey guys I need some help, I'm working for the state of Louisiana at the Youth Challenge Program. I was just told that we needed to up our Cadre Staff by 13. We hire retired,prior military,also active NG. Any help would be great. Also wanted to update everyone on my cancer,I'll have the operation on the 25th of March and be in the hospital for 4 days with a 2 or three week recovery barring any problems. Thanks to all of you that have sent E-mails and Phone calls.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Hey guys - I am in need of someone with grading equipment. Any of you old retired fellas do that kind of work? If nothing else, I could certainly use a bushhog....give me a holler if you can help out - I gotta garden to plant this year. YEAH!! ~Cookie

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks Dale.

Posted:
Name: Dale Osterloh
Message: Just got off the phone with Bernie Larson and he has been diagnosed with colon cancer. Says he has caught it early and has to meet with the surgeon in the next day or two. He also just lost his father to cancer a couple of weeks ago, so if you get a chance, drop him a line to wish him well.

Posted:
Name: Johnny Houston
Message: "C", Just moved to Gainesville....Drop me a line...Hope to see you soon. Johnny

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: That's a very good idea Ross! Ranger Students cross that bridge all of the time. I "3rd" that motion. Thanks Ross.

Posted:
Name: Howard Denton
Message: Ross, I'll second that motion! Excellent idea.

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Why not name the new bridge to the airfield after Bob Howard?

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: I agree with the idea of a memorial for Bob Howard whether a road or memorial of some sort. It would be a good thing to do. As for the Open House not happening this year, that's not a bad thing. It means we can have our annual gathering without all the traffic and crowds. I know it was nice to have the Open House going on so family and friends could enjoy the demonstrations, etc., but having the camp to ourselves won't be a bad thing.

Posted:
Name: Bill Breen
Message: Great idea Joe, I dont attend meetings, and I didnt know Col Howard well, however he did make a heck of an impression upon me. If not a road, some kind of memorial that the Students could see.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I'd like to throw this idea out for conversation or a proposal amongst the members who attend regular USMRA meetings. As most of us know, Col(D) Robert (Bob) Howard passed away and was buried at Arlington last month. He served at the Mountain Ranger Camp as a Capt and Major, in the capacity of Patrolling Committee OIC and later as Executive Officer. I don't know if anyone is talking about it yet, but I'd like to suggest that a Road/Street be named in his honor, if one is available. He was a National Hero, but to those who served with him at Camp Merrill and other places, he was Cadre and Family. I know for fact, that Doug Perry knows how to do this, and if there is agreement, I think it would be appropriate. I would think a Road/Street that the Ranger Students travel on often. If a Road/Street is not available then perhaps the "path" that leads from behind the NCO Club to Lower Mountaineering and it could be called just that....Col Howard MOH pathway,....or something like that,...and that's only assuming that Ranger Training still has the Rangers using that path. .....thanks, Joe.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Johnny Houston - where are you?

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thnaks for the updates Steve and Earl. Bill Miller former SGM of Camp Merrill. Good choice. thanks, Joe

Posted:
Name: William Antoine Dixon
Message: Hello my name is Antoine And I am 25 years old now And have been looking for my father since i was 6. will today in class I was looking on yahoo search and thought it would be fun to see what was under my name. What I found Shocked the hell out of me. My date and place of birth, and my fathers name where at the top of this website. He is; Dixon, William 07-98 101st PF, E/51st LRRS, 5th RTB my email address is antman84317@yahoo.com and it is good for finding me on facebook, myspace, and tagged. Please if you could let my father now that I still support Purdue University just like he does but I didnt join the military either. Hell, Im not even in a gang and no children! Please tell him to look me up. Life hasnt been that easy. The Adoption went horrible and they treated me like trash but Im still here unbroken. If my Father dont wanna be botherd with me I understand. I just wanted to let Him know that even hough he didnt raise me the goodness that was in his DNA enabled me to survive being shot 3 times, being homeless for 8 years and a host of other things too. I came from noble stock and before I dont ever get the chance again i just want him to know that i Love him and miss him and finding him would finally erase all of the lies and finally give me closure. Ive taken enough time from you. Thanks for listening.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Correction on Steve's post.The Bill Miller being posted on the planning bay is not Bill Miller from BDQ but SGM Bill Miller. He at one time was SGM of MRC.

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: !!!ATTENTION!!!ATTENTION!!!ATTENTION!!!ATTENTION!!!

Quite a bit to cover from last night's meeting.

Congratulations to Willard Lagdon for being selected as Distinguished Member of the Brigade. His ceremony is May 6th 2010 at Brigade Headquarters. If you plan tyo attend contact Brigade for times. This the Best Ranger Weekend also so lots of folks there.

Easter Egg Hunt March 27th at the NCO Club Steve Caldwell, Steve Bishop Pete Anderson will behandling I will be away at State Competitions with Drill Team.

Critter Cookout . We were told last night that we couldn't have Critter Cookout on Camp. There is a CORRECTION; We can have critter Cookout on camp and fish fry same dates as previous stated 28th/29 May. Stipulation NO BONFIRES!!!!

Scholarship paperwork is due soon. If you know of a deserving son, daughter, Grandson or Grandaughter of a Ranger who is a member please tell them to check this website for paperwork and information. Brian Cunningham appointed as Chairman of that Board, his staff was selected last night.

Planning Bay honorees for this year; Thomas Brock Roger Hunsinger Don Hughes (Johnny Quest) Bill Miller (BDQ type) Ted Tilson Bat Nelson

BDQ Reunion in Charleston SC, May 10th 11th and 12th 2010. Contact Bill Miller for more info

USMRA Sponsoring an Obstical for JROTC Obstical Course here in Dahlonega

OPEN HOUSE Due to the bridge being repaired here at Camp Merrill the Open House may not be occuring. Camp is working on getting the issue resolved, however standby for cancelation. We will let you know as soon as we know. I know a lot of people will be coming from far off. If no Open House there will be no Fallen Ranger Memorial Road Dedication this year and names will rollover to next year. We can still have Planning Bay and Critter Cookout however. Many visiting Dignataries were planning on attending this year, Gen Merill's Daughter SMA Glenn Morrell.

Rangers, I will let you know as soon as I can on the changes.

Rangers Lead The Way

Steve, Chairman USMRA


Posted:
Name: Bill Miller
Message: LTC Raymond Schuetze lives in Gainsville, GA and phone 770 536-6180 or 770 532-4421. LTC Schuetze was my Senior Advisor to the 2nd Ranger Gp ARVN in Jan 68. Good Luck

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Mr. Quirk, I believe LTC Ray Schuetze was in command at that time. Far as I know he is still alive and kicking. Maybe somebody on this board can give you contact info for him.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Dear Mr Quirk, I arrived to Camp Merrill as Cadre on my first assignment there in Sept 1979. I can confirm that I have heard that name. I can't remember much more then that, because he apparently left before I got there, but I must have heard the names from other Cadre who served with him. Perhaps Ted Tilson would remember. Good luck with your search.

Posted:
Name: Jim Quirk
Message: I am searching for folks who knew my brother SGM John Quirk. Among his memorabilia is a plaque made from cedar wood for Dec 76 through April 78. I would like to hear with folks who served with him. I just spoke to Bill Janous, who served with him before transferring to Ft Hood. He served at the time as Chief of Mountaineering and Camp Exective Officer. My brother served in Korea and Vietnam. Please contact me if you remember serving with him. Thank you and God Bless.

Posted:
Name: Becky Corcoran
Message: SGM PATRICK CORCORAN and FAMILY SELECTED FOR 2010 HOME AT LAST PROJECT

West Orange Habitat for Humanity is pleased to announce U.S. Army Sergeant Major Patrick Corcoran to be the recipient of - Home At Last 2010 – the third special project to be built, by the local Habitat affiliate, to honor a combat wounded, disabled, and veteran of the Iraq/Afghanistan wars. Construction on the home is... planned to start June 1, 2010 with a mid November completion date.

DONATION INFORMATION: Checks or money orders should be made payable to West Orange Habitat for Humanity and mailed to P. O. Box 38 Oakland, Florida 34760. Please be sure to indicate your contribution is for "Home At Last 2010" .We are a 501 (c) 3 non profit organization, and donations are tax deductible. All donations will be acknowledged with a receipt. Pat and our family are so excited that they picked us for this special honor and whatever the Ranger Community can do to help us out is appreciated. RLTW!!


Posted:
Name: Bernie Larson
Message: Things are great Just wanted to check in and give an update. I’ve sold my company and now work for the Louisiana military department . Working for the Youth Challenge Program (YCP) in Minden, Louisiana and I love the job . If you want to check out the program or now any one that would be interested in working for the program there is a National web site at http://www.ngycp.org/site/. We sure could use some help in Louisiana and I’m sure most of the States need Cadre also. Everyone take care and drop we a line, here’s my Info bernie.allen.larson@us.army.mil or phone # (985)381-9833

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...my inspirational mentor and personal RI, the indomitable Johnny Quest, sent this to me earlier...I must promote it as a considered project needing immediate attention...*harumpf*....promotions all around...

***Drafting Guys over 60***

...this is funny & obviously written by a Former Soldier...

I am over 60 and the Armed Forces thinks I'm too old to track down terrorists.

You can't be older than 42 to join the military.

They've got the whole thing ass-backwards..

Instead of sending 18-year olds off to fight, they ought to take us old guys.

You shouldn't be able to join a military unit until you're at least 35.. 

For starters: Researchers say 18-year-olds think about sex every 10 seconds.

Old guys only think about sex a couple of times a day, leaving us more than 28,000 additional seconds per day to concentrate on the enemy.

Young guys haven't lived long enough to be cranky, and a cranky soldier is a dangerous soldier.

'My back hurts! I can't sleep, I'm tired and hungry'.

We are impatient and maybe letting us kill some a**hole that desperately deserves it will make us feel better and shut us up for a while. 

An 18-year-old doesn't even like to get up before 10 a.m.

Old guys always get up early to pee so what the heck.

Besides, like I said, 'I'm tired and can't sleep and since I'm already up, I may as well be up killing some fanatical s.o.b.

If captured we couldn't spill the beans because we'd forget where we put them.

In fact, name, rank, and serial number would be a real brainteaser. 

Boot camp would be easier for old guys..

We're used to getting screamed and yelled at and we're used to soft food.

We've also developed an appreciation for guns.

We've been using them for years as an excuse to get out of the house, away from the screaming and yelling.

They could lighten up on the obstacle course however.

I've been in combat and didn't see a single 20-foot wall with rope hanging over the side, nor did I ever do any pushups after completing basic training. 

Actually, the running part is kind of a waste of energy, too.

I've never seen anyone outrun a bullet. 

An 18-year-old has the whole world ahead of him.

He's still learning to shave, to start up a conversation with a pretty girl.

He still hasn't figured out that a baseball cap has a brim to shade his eyes, not the back of his head. 

These are all great reasons to keep our kids at home to learn a little more about life before sending them off into harm's way.

Let us old guys track down those dirty rotten coward terrorists.

The last thing an enemy would want to see is a couple of million pissed off old farts with attitudes and automatic weapons who know that their best years are already behind them. 

***

How about recruiting Women over 50...in menopause!!!

You think Men have attitudes !!!

Ohhhhhhhhhhhh my God!!!

If nothing else, put them on border patrol....

They will have it secured the first night! 

***for immediate desemination***

...RLTW!!!...


Posted:
Name: Chris Piland
Message: Man I am sorry to hear about MR. Ned White...I remember him very well and to Reed Leisinger...keep your chin up brother...you can beat that stuff Bro...My mother beat a form of breast cancer that should have killed her...she is back in the harness now!!!! was also sory to hear about the missing pilots daughter in Haiti....I would have liked to have helped him on that one.

It's always good to read from Tom Wilburn any Ranger would be wise to benefit from his wisdom!! RLTW....


Posted: 2/18/2010
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Rangers

Ranger Jack Daniel is in pretty bad shape in Knoxville. They are having trouble getting him to take medication and do therapy. If you get a chance call and encourage him to keep trying. Bryan Hall Jackson provided the info. Keep Jack in your prayers.

Steve


Posted:
Name: Scott Carter
Message: Roy Close..Ditto what Al said. My email to you was returned as well. You lost your comsec Ranger! Al Martin..Do you speak Swahili yet?

Posted:
Name: Al Martin
Message: Roy Close I got your e-mail but when I answered it came back undeliverable for Spam. Send me another e-mail address. We have some openings. Stay Safe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: There is some $$ available in College Scholarship funding for those who are eligible. Without taking up a lot of space on this site, you can go to Rangermemorial.org, and fill out the on-line application. The online application must be received electronically, no later then 1 June.

Posted:
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Ranger Runners,

I have been getting many questions concerning the 5th RTB Ranger Run. We no longer operate the 5th RTB website on which the run information was posted, so we at the USMRA don't have any details. However, I know the command group at camp is planning to conduct the run during the Open House to be held on May 29, 2010. I believe you can go to Active.com for registration information though it may not be updated yet. That's all I know.

If I receive more information, I will post it on our home page.


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks Earl, and for any other information, you can review it at US Army Ranger Association (on line).

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: I thought some of you might be interested in this. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- President's Message COL Robert L. Howard, USA (Ret) COL Robert L. Howard was assigned with the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment and at Camp Frank D. Merrill, 5th Battalion, Ranger Training Brigade. He served with the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) with whom he was awarded the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross and Silver Star. In 2005 He was inducted into the US Army Ranger Hall of Fame. Linc German, President, USARA Ranger Memorial Service February 17, 2010 - At 11:00 hours there will be a Memorial Service honoring Bob at the Ranger Memorial, Fort Benning, Georgia. USARA will have officers and members attending. Please email Butch Nery or Frank Casey as soon as possible if you plan to attend so an association head count can be provided to the 75th Ranger Regiment. Arlington National Cemetery Burial February 22, 2010 - At 11:00 hours, the family requests attendees rendezvous at the Ft Myer Memorial Chapel. This Chapel is the large one near the PX, not the "Old Chapel" closer to the cemetery's upper entrance As of a few days ago, the specific burial plot # had not been released. Bob asked to be buried next to Audie Murphy; he participated at Murphy's burial. SEC 7A (Tomb of the Unknowns area) is the section where Murphy is buried, so if not next to him, Bob will be close, getting another wish. The USARA will have at least two association Officers attending at Ft Myer, myself as President and Mark Pelphrey, Secretary. If you plan to attend please contact me as soon as possible for coordinating information. About the US Army Ranger Association The history of the American Ranger is a long and colorful saga of courage, daring, and outstanding leadership. It is a story of men whose skills in the art of fighting have seldom been surpassed. The purpose of the United States Army Ranger Association (USARA) is to promote and preserve the heritage, spirit, image and service of U.S. Army Rangers.

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...Ned was one of the few that everyone enjoyed knowing and being with...

...His time at Camp will be remembered by so many that enjoyed a good laugh and genuine friendship...

warmest regards and condolences to his two sons and wife and to all who knew this fine man as friend...

...and a bit of Valentine prose for all us highbrows...

..."It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them." - Ralph Waldo Emerson ...Mark


Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Ned White. I remember him well as he was the truck driver who brought groceries from Gillem to Merrill. May he rest in peace. ~C

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks for the updates guys. My condolences to the family of Ned White. Many Ranger Instructors may have never met him due to his hours. He'd leave Camp early in the morning and get back around mid afternoon, and off load. I remember him well, and that's what counts to all of us I think. Reed, sorry to read of you fight with Cancer. Sounds like you're doing better and you're "upbeat" about it. Glad to know that you're still in the "fight". Best to you Ranger Buddy, and I hope you stay in touch with updates. Tell Craig Polzin I said hi. Joe Mattison

Posted: 2/10/2010
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Tom, thanks for posting the information on Ned White. He probably had the most important job at Camp Merrill--he hauled the chow from Ft. Gillem to Camp Merrill every day.

A month after arriving at camp, Ned provided me a room in their old garage where I stayed until I found better quarters. I worked with his sons and rode horses for them. He loved Camp Merrill.

I visited the family tonight and they are doing well considering the circumstances.


Posted:
Name: Tom Wilburn
Message:

Many of you will remember Mr. Ned White and his service to the folks at MRC and in the local community. Mr. White passed away as a result of a recent battle with cancer. He will be at Mountain View funeral home in Blairsville from 1800-2100L on 10 February 2010. He will lie in state at Mount Lebanon Baptist Church from 1000-1100L on 11 February, and be buried at Mount Lebanon immediately after. Mount Lebanon Baptist Church is located about 1.5 miles north of Woody Lake on HWY 180 in Suches. Mr White was a great supporter of MRC, a dedicated family man, a patriotic American and retired from Camp Merrill although I don't remember the exact year.


Posted:
Name: Harry A. Speaker
Message: I saw where Frank Lincoln was listed with the Fallen Ranger Memorial. When I was with the Mountaineering Team in '69 and '70 we had a Sergeant Lincoln. Can someone tell me about Frank Lincoln? Thanks.

Posted:
Name: Ernie Cornell
Message: I am trying to find a contact at Camp Merrill (or the surrounding area) who might be able to help me with trip that we are planning for some under privilaged kids... mountain biking in the Dahlonega area. We need approximately 20 sleeping bags for use for the weekend... all other needs have been met. I am hoping that I might be able to sign some out from the training battalion. We are also interested in having an active Ranger participate as a role model as well as having some experience with the local area. Thoughts? Ernie Cornell Class 80-2

Posted:
Name: Reed Leisinger
Message: Just wanted to keep all my brothers updated on what is going on with my latest health challenges. Decenber of 2009 I was diagnosed with stage III melanoma and subsquently had to have a cross section lymphadectomy in my groin, neck and underarms. I started with large amounts of adudant therapy using very high doses of"interon" to kill all the cells in my body that has to do with killing cells. The lymphnode dies and so does the imune system, after 6 weeks then its time to start the other 48 weeks of therapy which puts small 2.4 mm of interferon into the body. In the mean time I was in the hospital twice for Congested Heart failure and a very high potassium count which almost killed me. I take kemo three times a week an should be done with the 48 weeks in May 2010. There is a mass on my lung that might need to be cut out but we won't know until March if we are going to Wizmer, Craig Polzin,Chuck Wood, Bob Williams, and many others of the USMRA. The good aspect of this terrible is I have lost 105 pounds and the bad part is no beer or hardons for the same. Hopefuly I will be trucking right along soon thanks to wonderful brothers and sisters. I truly love each and everyone of you, I hope to go back to work and give that a try by June. 509-994-4872

Posted:
Name: john tompkins
Message: Johnny Houston - Covey leader to Raven,,,talk to me Johnny. So, ur at Ft Lewis? I retired in good ole WVA, been ass deep in snow since before X-mas, can't get out to hardly do anything. My e-mail is abnrgr1sg@hotmail.com I don't check it or the message bord much but will send a sitrep to ur e-mail. Tompkins

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: When I arrived at MRC in 1967 Pappy Hudson was the 1SG of 2nd Ranger CO. Whip Wilson was the SGM and Major Acre was the Camp Commander. About 69 Whip became SGM at NGC and Pappy took over as acting SGM. Acre left for Vietnam, where he was KIA shortly after arriving in country.I went to Vietnam in 69 and returned in 70. At that time Pappy was chief of Police in Dahlonega. Whip ran for Sheriff in Lumpkin county and didn't get elected but came close. After that he retired here in Lumpkin County. Last report I have on Whip he is in pretty bad shape,fighting the big C. If I can help with other information email me. RLTW

Posted: 2/6/2010
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I was the Operations NCO at Camp Merrill back in 1983. Pappy Hudson died of natural causes, and was cremated. His last request was to have Military Funeral Service at Camp Merrill with a Firing Party and Bugler. He then wanted his ashes scattered over the TVD. I was the one who did that for him, out of a helicopter. That's about all I can say about that particular event. I'd never met Pappy Hudson personally. I just had the honor of taking care of his final request. I understand that he was a Veteran of WWII, Korea and Viet Nam if memory serves me correctly with regards to his history. There was a large turnout of both family and friends at the Funeral Service. Immediately after the Funeral Services, he was taken aboard the Helo for his last trip up the TVD. The helo was a UH1H, and I'm almost positive that it was 1983. Regards, Joe Mattison

Posted:
Name: Jim Hamilton
Message: Anyone around that was assigned MRC in 59 or 66? Or Benning in 67/68? Anyone Know when/how Pappy Hudson deceased? MSG Wilson or any other "old-timers" up and about? Any Off/NCO that served under Larry Acre or I.A, Edwards around? Thanks Jim

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...guess this means we get to have the inaugural 'Hooters Girls' Color Guard Competition instead, if Vice-Generalissimo Sonny doesn't have too many motions to contend with...

...RLTW!...especially when it's cold outside...


Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Rangers, I will be unable to attend the meeting Thursday. I will be at Ft. Jackson on a uniform pickup run.

Steve


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks Bob.

Posted:
Name: webmaster
Message: The cookout information has been posted on the home page for several months. May 29 in conjunction with the open house.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: When is the Critter Cookout for 2010? I read in an earlier post that is was to be in conjuction with the Open House. What are the dates, and the itinerary....again?

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: VA Update: There is now a new Veterans National Cemetary located near Philadelphia. It opened on 20 January. The name is: Washington Crossing National Cemetary in Newtown, PA, located North of Philadelphia, in Bucks County. It's about 3 miles from I-95, and about 3 miles from the famous "Washington Crossing Historical Park". For further information, you can contact the Cemetary Office directly at: (215) 504-5610 or: 1-800-535-1117. Take care Rangers. Joe

Posted:
Name: cpl sweatman
Message: what is your affilliation with the 506th, i deployed to rvn with them in 67, tiger bravo, 2d bn 506th pir (abn). then ltc david e grange commanding.....rltw....ted tilson

Posted:
Name: c/Cpl. Roger Sweatman
Message: my email is cadet.sweatman@gmail.com to ssg hawk thanks c/Cpl sweatman

Posted:
Name: c/Cpl. Roger Sweatman
Message: that is for col teston's retirement party at school ps the lesson plans you teach are not boring to me they are quite fun thanks again c/Cpl. Sweatman

Posted:
Name: c/Cpl. Roger Sweatman
Message: hi seargent hawk send me any pics of col teston so i can do a slide show for him of his life and some of the currahee battalion thanks, c/Cpl Sweatman

Posted:
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Earl, you are a genius.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Good one Earl! Hell, I'm still laughing! Why do I really believe that Doug would actually do such a thing? Take care Earl, and thanks for the good belly laugh. Joe

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Ross. They are tibits of life that add dramatic emphasis to the otherwise boring lesson plans.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Come on Rangers don't be to hard on Doug, he can't defend himself. He recently moved and don't have his commo set up yet,telephone,computer etc.Doug has been kind of lost with all the modern stuff, in fact he has been lost sense we stopped using smoke signals and drums. Someone will help him get setup and he will be back on the net soon. By the way I talked to Doug this morning and he was all excited, he shot his first turkey yesterday. He said it was great but it sure scared the heck out of the people in the frozen food isle at Wal Mart. RLTW

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Hawk, don't be too hard on Doug. Dylan tells me the stories you tell him in school.

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Don't doubt he could but it would be the "many things" that would bother me.

Posted:
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Steve, slap some clusters on Doug Perry and give him the job. He could teach your students many things.

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: We have a job opening here at the Lumpkin County High School JROTC for an Officer O4 or higher. COL Butch Teston will be retiring at the end of this school year. ANyone interested should contact me here at the school. Remember you will have to meet the guidelines set by Cadet Command. Go to Cadet Command website for further info.

Posted:
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Our Ranger buddy, Kelly Hyde has created a great screen saver for USMRA members. Download it at www.airborneranger.com

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: For Ranger Brooks: You are always in our thoughts, Always! Take care of yourself, and your Ranger Buddies. We wish all of you good hunting!

Posted:
Name: Brian Cunningham
Message: Applications for the 2010 USMRA Scholarship are now being accepted. See details for qualification under Activities on the USMRA web page. You may mail applications to me at PO Box 208, Gainesville, GA 30503 - Incomplete packets WILL NOT be considered.

Also, the post of Scholarship Committee Chairman is open for nominees. Please be prepared to make your nomination at the February meeting or email Steve Hawk before then if you cannot attend.


Posted:
Name: Brian Cunningham
Message: It is time to make the 2010 Planning Bay naming selections for the next group of Rangers to be honored. We are already in to the 1970's. If you graduated Ranger School after 1969 and served as an instructor or other cadre at CFM, please be sure your information is up to date on the Unit Roster. See details for this program under Activities on the web page. Next month I will present a proposed list of honorees to the membership for approval. RLTW.

Posted:
Name: Ranger Brooks
Message: Set to deploy soon, (3Batt 75th) keep us in your hrats!!!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I'm sorry to read about that Dan. Thanks for the updates. Thanks for what you did in getting a Team together. Joe

Posted:
Name: Dan Rhodes
Message: Update on the Haiti mission: Happened this weekend but the outcome was not successful unfortunately. The daughter didn't make it. Thanks to those who volunteered.

Posted:
Name: Franklin Murphy
Message: With that cleared up put me on the list to do what I can. RLTW

Posted:
Name: Dan Rhodes
Message: No, its a call for any Ranger, not just active duty.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ross..you have excuslive I would think.

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Man, would I love to write the story for this one.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I hpe that he isn't because a whole lot of folks who are former as well as retired Rangers can help with this one. She's either alive or not. It's a personal security thing I think.

Posted:
Name: Franklin Murphy
Message: Are you looking for only active duty Rangers?

Posted:
Name: Dan Rhodes
Message: Derek, passed along your info but he is looking to go in a day or three and you wouldn't be able to make it back before he left. Thanks to those others who already are deployed for offering assistance.

Posted:
Name: Runyon
Message: e-mail me, i'll take leave to help if i can.

Posted:
Name: Dan Rhodes
Message: Rangers: The pilot for the Georgia govenor has a daughter missing in Haiti. He is looking for two Rangers to accompany him into Haiti once the airport is open. This is a short string mission so you have to be ready to go. If you are interested contact me and I will forward your info so he can contact you. I don't have any specifics other than what I've posted. He will contact you with all other details.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Temps are now in the mid 20s. Skies are clear and the sun is out. Most of the Rangers who had signed on with Major Rogers have returned, and they are all asking for forgiveness for running from the extreme temperatures of last week. Upon further inspection, it has also been discovered that their canteens are empty and their rucks are also empty meaning that they have ran out of fine spirits "whiskey" and Venison. Perhaps we will be able to keep them employed as guardians of the Norther Frontier until spring, when we hope to hire some replacement Rangers who can show that they have sewed on their Ranger Tabs with white thread.

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Hey Cookie, I keep trying your new e-mail address. Comes back undeliverable ?

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: We are -14 degrees, at 0815 hrs this morning. Winds 3-5 and variable. All of the Roger's Rangers have terminated their Jump Status.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Steve: You're a DOG....a DOG! Bob: I'm not sure,...email him.

Posted:
Name: Steve Woodring
Message: Damn Jimmy, Im not sure what part of fl. you live in but it was 24 degrees at my little farm here in Lakeland the other night. How cold does it have to get before you get a chill.Oh well I guess ill just have to turn up the hot tub a little bit and chill the beers a little less I guess.Ya all have a good one and stay warm. RLTW Steve

Posted:
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Where in Iowa is Johnny Quest? I grew up near Ottumwa.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Johnny Quest says...8 more inches in Iowa. Got to love it. When the heck is that Global Warming supposed to start? I want everyone to go out and buy a Diesel Pick Up Truck.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Jim: Another 6 inches overnight. Wearing out the snowblower. Can't wait to start "snowbirding". Love NY in summer....but they can keep this place in winter.

Posted:
Name: OWENS
Message: JOE.... Yes - it's very NICE here in sunny Florida... NO SNOW, it's been a very pleasent winter this year, as I wore the old white t-shirt and shorts on xmas day... Been very worm so far this year....No cold wind, very little rain, warm days... Just another day in the sun.... JIM

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Steve: I know that you know about Bob M, and "Digger" Lee. Doug has to know about Ranger Parrish. I also understand that you are the point of contact for anyone wishing to send a "get well card" to Doc Donovan. Congratulations on being the overwhelming response...by the "originals" of 1/75 in creating a coin for the "originals" and most importantly, thanks for what you do. Snow.....? Someone mention snow? Does anyone want me to pick them up at the Buffalo Airport, where I can show you some of that doggone...snow? If I were a member of Rogers Rangers and it was 1756....I'd have to terminate my Jump Status just to get the heck out of that outfit. Colder then all get out, winds howling out of the north and snow up to my armpits....welcome back to upstate New York....Joe. Dumber then a box of rocks when I think that I could have retired to southern Florida.

Posted: 1/7/2010
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Thanks, Steve. I was determined to drive to camp from Blairsville. You kept me from making a dumb decision.

Next month the Fallen Ranger nominations are due. I still need information on Bob Myhrie, Frank Lincoln, Emory Parrish, & James Lee. I have the information on Pete Neves & Joseph Castagna.

If we don't have the required Bio and photo, we will have to rotate the name to next year. Unfortunately, past experience has shown that if the information isn't turned in by the February meeting, it does not get turned in before the ceremony in May.


Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: But Steve, I just got my horse saddled and my mucklucks on.

Duke says he saw Doc Donovan before the left the country. He's all right.


Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Looks like the weather is getting worse so I am canceling the meeting for tonight. Go play in the snow

Steve


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Joe: He got hurt in Afghanistan. He was near the suicide bomber that took out several CIA folks. I'm getting the updates from different venues, but word is....he's going to be ok. Shrapnel on the left side, got up and renedered aid and assistance to those who were also wounded in the attack. Again, preliminary reports indicate that he will be ok. Shaken, but not stirred! You take care of yourself as well. Joe

Posted:
Name: Amerling
Message: I must have missed something, what happened to Doc?

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Yes there is a meeting this Thursday. See you all at the club.

Steve


Posted:
Name: Bill Breen
Message: My memmories of Doc arent as detailed as yours Joe. I do recall upon my arrival at 1st plt in the Batt. Meeting Doc and viewing a photo album he had of Nam. He was sent to "Higher up" shortly there after. Yes I hear hear hes walking and talking......thats a good thing.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: A long time ago, when the earth was still flat...Doc Donovon and I were in Ranger School together. We were in the same Platoon during the final phase in the Florida Ranger Camp. I was designated to be the "Patrol Leader"...(all of us have heard our names called in the middle of the night as I was)...and Doc was designated to be on left flank security...along with his Ranger Buddy. To make a long story short, I failed that Patrol, and Doc had a small part of my failure. That's not important...and to this day...it's not important because now I'm going to tell you and the rest of the world...the rest of the story. Doc felt SO BAD about the part that he played with regard to my failure of that patrol...that he insisted that I get his rations...for the rest of that 12 day Patrol. Doc wasn't a "smoker" and the rations were C-Rations that had the famous "Chesterfields" and "LSMFT" stuff. I smoked the 4 cigarette packs and drank the instant coffee (that he could have traded) in lieu of the food that he wanted me to take. I'll never forget his "sense" of integrity, or his "sense" of responsibility (in his opinion)...and even though I made up for that failed Patrol...I still smoked his C-Rat cigarettes and drank his C-Rat instant Coffee until we finally road marched back into Field Six. The point is...Doc has a very deep feeling of responsibility...and I will never forget it. Those feelings are what makes him who he is, and thats why the rest of us love him. He's still a dirty bastard with a tough hide who needs to get his ass back to a safe place and write books about his experiences... How the hell are we as a Nation going to preserve our National Treasures...like Doc...as long as they keep going into "harms way?" Doesn't Doc have any other hobbies other then being shot at, or being blown up? Take care Rangers...now you know the rest of the story. Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Latest word on Doc Donovan is that he's going to be OK. That leather hided bastard...I wish he'd settle down somewhere, and write a book or something.

Posted:
Name: Bill Breen
Message: Wishing a Speedy Recovery to Doc Donovan.

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...Rose Bowl...Alabama introduces Texas to the SEC...

...8pm, Thursday Night...

...last game worth watching until August, when college football, SEC et al, will again play...

...Question...Has Sonny mentioned anything about postponing this one upcoming meeting of the mountain masters for one week, to, say, the 14th of January, so the college national championship game can be properly appreciated by some of us?...Sonny's been considering talking to me about it, but I keep getting pre-empted by his 'to-do' lists, I guess...

...so, has that historic motion been made?...or am I delusional?...

...RLTW on 14Jan10 too!...

...Mark...back in the USA for my VA...


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ranger Bozeman: Nice to see that a fellow "Cacti" and Ranger has joined. Welcome. Joe

Posted:
Name: Franklin Murphy
Message: Happy New Year to All.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Happy New Year, and may this year be the best one ever, for everyone.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: MESSAGE FOR: "ORIGINALS" 3RD RANGER BATTALION, 1984. If you would like to purchase a Commemerative "Originals" Dietz print, or an "Originals" .45 ACP Auto...you can contact CPT Carmen Bucci, S-5, 3/75. He is the point of Contact. The Pistol is $470.00 and they do ship out of the State of Georgia to a Federally Licensed Gun Dealer, of the purchasers choice..ie,..(Gun Store). The Pistol is engraved with 3/75 and Regimental Distinctive Unit ornamentation. The pistol grips can be distinctly engraved with what ever the purchaser wants to put on them (within reason). Contact CPT Bucci, S-5, 3/75 at: email: buccic@soc.mil Phone: (706) 545-7954, or US Postal Mail: Headquaters, 3d Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, 7917 Dawson Street, Bldg 2946, Fort Benning, Georgia, 31905. Glad to know that Doug is doing OK, but then again, he's a pretty tough bird! Thanks Earl for the update.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: I talked to Doug a couple days ago and he is well on the way to being his old self, look out ladies.

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: What's the latest on Doug Perry? Is he back to normal? As bad as that may be, it's better than knowing he's sick.

Posted:
Name: Johnny Houston
Message: John T... Glad to hear from you... Drop me a line a ranger0565@yahoo.com... I retired out here at FT Lewis...

Posted:
Name: Jim Owens
Message: Joe, Thanks... That was very well done.... Jim,... I noticed over 172,200 people visited the site and it's stil growing in numbers....

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Jim Owens: I invite you to go to: "Robet L. Howard Tribute Website." It is very well done. Regards, Joe

Posted:
Name: Sasquatch Smitty
Message: Merry Christmas everyone. We had a great dinner like Mr. Padgett use to make. I like blueberries on my pancakes and ice cream. smitty

Posted:
Name: Franklin Murphy
Message: Merry Christmas to all. Ranger Bob Howard Rest In Peace

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Merry Christmas guys.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Good Morning America News honored a fallen Ranger this morning. Young fella - I caught the tail end of the bit, so I didn't catch his name. Another life given for our freedom, and yet, he saved lives even in death....as he was an organ donor. This morning, I say a prayer for all our military....home and abroad - may God give you peace in your heart this Christmas Day.

Merry Christmas everyone!! ~C


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Merry Christmas.

Posted:
Name: Jim Owens
Message: I consider myself very lucky and fortunate to have served with Col(R)Bob Howard twice. I highly respected him and admired him for everything he took the time to teach me as a young Buck Sergeant and as a Sergeant First Class. He would not ask you to do anything he was not willing to do with you. Sir, you carried more than your share of the weight and you definitely “Led The Way” for many of us…..There are not enough words to express the gratitude for all you did…..Ranger Howard, Rest in Peace- Sir, You will be missed by many.... Thank You…... RLTW Jim Owens

Posted:
Name: Bill Miller
Message: To all Rangers past and present from your BDQ Rangers. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Remember all our service men and women deployed around the world in your prayers.

Posted:
Name: christopher piland
Message: MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!!! RLTW!!!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I want to pass on that I received from a reliable source...Col (R) Bob Howard passed away this morning. To all who knew him and to those who served with him, my regards. To those who don't know him, Col (R) Bob Howard was nominated for the Medal of Honor 3 times, but due to his location at the time, it was downgraded to the DSC. On the third event and nomination, it was approved and presented to him by the then, President of the US, Richard Nixon. It is possible and very likely that Col (R) Bob Howard was the most decorated (for Valor) in the history of the United States with 1 Medal of Honor, 2 Distinguished Service Crosses, Silver and Bronze Stars for Valor, Purple Hearts and many other awards. Col (R) Howard received most if not all of these awards as a Noncommissioned Officer serving with Special Forces (SOG) in Southeast Asia/Viet Nam. He was received a Direct Commission and continued his military career as a Commissioned Officer retiring as a Colonel. After Viet Nam he commanded two different Companies in 2nd Ranger Battalion, and later served at Camp Frank D. Merrill as the OIC of the Patrolling Branch. Upon his promotion to Major, he became the Executive Officer at Camp Merrill. He then went to JFK WarFare Center at Ft Bragg and was in charge of the SF Qualification Course as a Major and Lieutenant Colonel. He final assignment was as a Garrison Commander in EUSAREC/EUCOM Germany. For much greater detail, you can look up Col Bob Howard in Wikipedia, and for those who didn't know the details, I highly recommend the search. I have further received word that Col (R) Howard has requested burial at Arlington National Cemetary. With regrets...I report another "Fallen Comrade"...and again, to those who knew him and served with him...my hopes are that each of you remember a National Treasure that he is and was....as he would want you to.

Posted:
Name: John Tompkins
Message: Johnny Houston???? Talk to me Johnny....our daughters grew up together while we were hanging out the door. Had no idea of where u ended up at. Lets get in touch. Ranger Tompkins

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: My Brother Rangers

Just a few short days before we Celebrate the birth of Christ. I know some of you are far from family and friends and to each of you, know that, I know that empty feeling and will say my prayers for your safe return and for the days when your are finally home for Christmas, and warmed by the hearts and hearths of family. For my brothers who have family and friends you are with, drag them close and enjoy this season.

Only a few of us can truely understand that being home with loved ones, is one of the greatist gifts that a man can have.

Merry Christmas my brothers.

Steve


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Sorry Ed. I don't have many photos of that time, and I don't have one of your Uncle. I didn't really carry a camera around with me too much in those days. Maybe some of the others might have one, and thats why I'm responding back to you on this site per your photo request. Good luck, and tell him I said "hi"!

Posted:
Name: ed yazzie
Message: to joe m. or greg b. or any other rangers that knew my uncle gilbert yazzie. i was wondering if anyone had pictures of him "back in the day" when he worked with you all. i would like to surprise him with a plague with a picture of him back then. i am compelled to honor him with this plaque since he and others in my immediate family are the reasons i wanted to join the us army. you can emails the pictures to may email address, thank you i appreciate it.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: MESSAGE FOR ALL RANGERS WHO SERVED WITH COL (R) BOB HOWARD. If you served with Colonel Howard during your service with 2/75 or at Camp Frank D. Merrill, (Mountain Ranger Camp), you are being asked to contact: SFC George E. Smith, Public Affairs NCO, 75th Ranger Regiment, Ft Benning, Georgia. You can reach him by phone at the following: (706) 545-8407 or (706) 604-6457.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Tell him to stack his pillows high, keep his head elevated, use Vicks vapor rub under his nose and on his upper lip as well as his chest. Tell him to use his incentive spirometer that they gave him at the hospital every hour while he's awake, at with 10 deep breath efforts every hour, and most importantly....keep the Budweiser to no more the 6 cans a day....yep thats 12 oz cans! Glad to know he's ok, but don't tell him I said so. How's Charlie Daniels?

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: I just talked to Doug and he is on the way home .He is still very congested, but feels a lot better. I guess he will go into hibernation mode for a few days .Thanks to all of you who are concerned. RLTW

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: I'm too far away to go and visit Doug Perry, so would someone close to him tell him I said for him to get his a** out of bed and get back to work. Oh, wait a minute...he doesn't work any more. Okay then, please, just tell him I said to get well and go home for Christmas. And quit being so cranky. And we love him.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I also ask the same that Amie did. I'd like to send a Christmas Card, and get some "pogey bait" smuggled into him.

Posted:
Name: amie close
Message: What hospital is Doug at? and is there a # where he can be reached.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: I just talked to Doug Perry and found out he is in the Hospital suffering from pneumonia. He didn't sound to strong but seemed to be in good spirits. Please keep Doug in your prayers...Having been down that road before, I would imagine he had rather not have a lot of visitors. I will keep everyone posted. RLTW

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Anyone have further intel on Jack Daniel?

Posted:
Name: Joe Nowak
Message: Thanks Bob. Joe

Posted:
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Joe,
I have his daughter in class later today. Send me an email and I'll get it fir you.
Bob

Posted:
Name: Joe Nowak
Message: Anybody have Art McCann phone number/e-mail. Used to have it, lost it. Thanks Joe

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: I've always loved that poem though it brings a tear to me eye every time I read it. Thanks for sharing it again here, Mark - and of course, I've read it many times, but I had to read the whole thing again. I just can't pull my eyes away from it whenever I see it. I don't recall "Ranger" being in it before, so that was a nice twist. Thanks again for sharing, Mark - I hope you got your VA meds situation settled.

All the best to all of you, near and far ~ Merry Christmas, my friends! ~C


Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...it's not my writing, just something worth passing on, which I rarely do...

...so many of us remember the family back home during this season while serving as a young teenager in the service...

...my humble opinion would support a mandatory 4 year service commitment for all males and females in capacities from the military to even the Peace Corps, so an appreciation for our country could be experienced first hand by all our youth...of course, that's just my humble opinion, mind you...

...RLTW anyhow!...Mark


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: An update on Col(R) Howard. He has now transferred to a hospice facility in Waco, Texas. His son who is stationed at Bragg is with him as well as other family members. He has requested to be buried at Arlington when the time comes. The hospital in San Antonio will forward his mail. On another note, thanks Mark for a great poem. I printed it, and put it on our Bulletin Board here in the VA Hospital. Very well done. My thanks, Joe.

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...A Different Christmas Poem...   

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,

I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.

My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,

My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,

Transforming the yard to a winter delight.

The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,

Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,

Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.

In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,

So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,

But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.

Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,

Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,

And I crept to the door just to see who was near.

Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,

A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,

Perhaps a Ranger, huddled here in the cold.

Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,

Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,

"Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!

Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,

You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!

"For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,

Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts.

To the window that danced with a warm fire's light

Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,

I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."

"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,

That separates you from the darkest of times.

No one had to ask or beg or implore me,

I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.

My Gramps died at 'Pearl on a day in December,"

Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers."

My dad stood his watch in the jungles of 'Nam',

And now it is my turn and so, here I am.

I've not seen my own son in more than a while,

But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.

Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,

The red, white, and blue... an American flag.

I can live through the cold and the being alone,

Away from my family, my house and my home.

I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,

I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.

I can carry the weight of killing another,

Or lay down my life with my sister and brother.

Who stand at the front against any and all,

To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall.."  

"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,

Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."

"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,

"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?

It seems all too little for all that you've done,

For being away from your wife and your son."

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,

"Just tell us you love us, and never forget.

To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,

To stand your own watch, no matter how long.

For when we come home, either standing or dead,

To know you remember we fought and we bled.

Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,

That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."... ...RLTW!...


Posted:
Name: Joe
Message: Thanks Steve, good preliminary news. Joe

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Jack Daniel is in ICU at Park West Hospital in Knoxville TN. I spoke with Nancy and even to JAck. He had several blockages along with the strokes. They are waiting on test results and should know more later. Jack, as in true Ranger Fashion asked about USMRA business and Historical committee. Several good signs that he requested breakfast and lunch and ate some of each.

Prayers help

Steve


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thank you Steve. Please keep us posted. I remember him well, and I had the pleasure of linking up with him and his ROTC unit when he was last on Active Duty, for a couple of days back in 97 or 98. This does not sound good. Thanks again.....Joe

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Rangers

Sad news seems to come this time of year. Unfortunately , I've just recieved word that Ranger Jack Daniel has had a massive stroke and several smaller ones. He is hospitalized and they have asked the family to come in. I am attempting to gain further information and have a call in to Brian JAckson. Jack is a member of the Ranger Hall of Fame and one of the first Lane Graders at the Florida Camp. However we have made him an offical Mountain Ranger Cqamp Instructor. He is a great guy and I have said my prayers for him. When you take a knee today ask the Great RAnger in the Sky to watch over Jack and his family.

I will post more when available.

Steve


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: There are many online sites about Colonel Howard. Just "google" Robert L. Howard. Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Some of us are using the "season" to simply mail Col Howard a Christmas Card. Just a simple "Merry Christmas" card.

Posted:
Name: Brian Cunningham
Message: As best I can recall, Bob Howard arrived at CFM in the Fall 1976. I was still the CO, 2nd RGR Co, at the time. I remember his coming into the Orderly Room the first time and getting to know him. Hell of a guy.

Posted:
Name: Bill Breen
Message: Its been over 30 years, but as a student in class 2-77 Col Howard, then Capt Howard, was an RI on more than 1 of my patrols. I think most all the students knew he was awarded the MOH. but none knew the details. As far as I can recall, he wasnt blind in 1 eye, but he wasnt real fond of the fridgid temps we endured. Hell of a man, and I'm proud to have been taught by a true American hero. RLTW Breen

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Colonel Bob Howard (R), US Army St Lukes Baptist Hospital, Room 517A, 7930 Floyd Curl Drive San Antonio, Texas 78229-3925

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks Ross. Yes, they've been publishing all along, and I think this last one is the 3rd article in a series. Your "Ranger Book" has been used quite a lot in preparing those articles. I want to add that this past weekend, I accidentally came across a really good viewing of the 2nd and 5th Ranger Battalions during the Normandy Invasion. I accessed it on line and it's sponsored by the Veterans Administration. I encourage you to watch it....and you can find it by going to the website: Battle Field Monuments Commission. Once there, click on the viewing of the Rangers etc,... It gives the entire battle of Normandy from the Ranger's perspective in precise time lines. What went right, what didn't, what happened after they found and destroyed the guns, what happened during the counter attacks, how many survivied...etc. It's a combination of actual footage, and art work. It's very interesting, and very well done. I enjoyed it, and I learned a great deal more about that particular moment in time, with regards to our Ranger History. Thanks for your encouragement with regards to Static Line. Joe

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Hey Joe, I see you finally got published in the Static Line. Good job.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: For the convenience of those who are out of State and read this bulletin board, I'll go ahead and post all of the information that I have with regards to the 20 Anniversary events, "Operation Just Cause", Republic of Panama, sponsored by 1st Ranger Battalion. Friday: 18 December; 1900 hrs, Ice Breaker/Social at Kevin Barry's Pub in Savannah, 2nd Floor. Saturday: 19 December; 1230 hrs, gather/social at the 1/75 Memorial Site, 1/75 area, Hunter AAF, Savannah, Ga. 1300 hrs: Memorial Service and Historical account of "Operation Just Cause". 1500 hrs: Informal Cookout sponsored by 1/75. 1900 hrs: Social and closing get together at Barry's Pub, Savannah. Rooms have been "blocked" at the Land Mark Inn on Hunter for out of town participants. Point of Contact is: jeremy.mccallister@us.army.mil Take care Rangers.....Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks Ted. Great information about Col (R) Howard. I remember you speaking of him often while we spent numerous hours at the CP on Hawk Mountain. I believe I may have him confused with someone else regarding the vision loss in one eye, but I can't seem to remember who it was. On another note, and for all Rangers, 1st Ranger Battalion, at Hunter AAF, will be hosting a 20th Anniversary of "Operation Just Cause", Republic of Panama (Noriega etc,.) on the 19th of December. You can contact 1/75 for more details if you're able to attend. Hard to believe that it's been 20 years. Time goes by too fast.

Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: hey guys, some info on what i do know about bob howard: he was the pi of rmir33n when i arrived at cfm in july of 1976. bill miller was his api. later he became the oic of patrolling with stanly fox as his ncoic. i was assigned to 31 staff but we were doing double runnings at the time so instedad of staffing , i was assigned to walk five patrols per cycle. i wasen't the exception. i walked maybe 20-30 patrols with cpt howard. i didn't know he was blind, (was he?) he knew more about conducting small unit combat ops than anyone i ever met. his knowledge and real experience was vast and he was able to share that knowledge with beat-up ranger students. he was promoted to major in 78, (i think) and became the xo. he was a true professional and totally mission-oriented. he kept his nco mentality when dealing with all sorts of problems, (if he "invited" you to take a lunch-time jog up cooper gap road you knew you were in deep crap),if, you were an nco, he had a different take on dealing with 'other ranks'. he saved many many nco's careers, believe me because we were a very unruly bunch in those days. he left in middle 79 and was assigned to camp mcall n.c. where he ran the sf selection phase for a number of years. my last active encounter with him was in 85, he was the garrison commander at seventh corps hq in stuttgart germany. he saw me and treated me like gold up in his office. he was the same as i remembered. i am proud to know him and was especially so when he was finally inducted in the ranger hall of fam. (how could those snobs NOT vote for one of the most decorated soldiers of the entire history of the us army). anyway, you either loved this professional or you didn't, as it is in almost every case when discussing great men. i wish him and his family the very best and i will be there if he ever needs whatever inadequate services i may offer....... rltw always....tddy bear tilson

Posted:
Name: webmaster
Message: To donate to the fund supporting the families of the slain Police Officers in Washignton or to donate specifically to the family of Ranger Mark Renninger - one of slain Police Officers - simply access www.lpig.us – the website for the Lakewood Police Independent Guild – and indicate in the comments you would like the money to go to Sergeant Mark Renninger’s family. You can also access any Bank of America branch nation-wide and donate to the Lakewood Fallen Officer Fund – again specifying all proceeds to Mark’s family, if you wish.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Well....Joe....that certainly explains why Randy appeared to be laughing so hard! ;-P His dad sent me the picture, but it is also posted here on his bio page.

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: I left CFM 31 August 1976 and Bob Howard was there then. I don't recall when he got there. I do remember one time talking with him. He was always quiet, not the talkative type like so many I could name, one or two of whom are hunting in Ohio right now. I had seen a picture of him in a magazine dragging a VC into an SF camp and asked Bob why he did that. He just shrugged and said he thought somebody might've wanted him for something. Typical of him. Good Man. Great Soldier.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Cookie: Postscript...yep....Memory DOES serve me correctly on the photo. I was there. It was a Cadre Jump, and we were Jump Mastering. We were headed out to the DZ after rigging and inspecting the Air Craft, to pick up the first load of Jumpers. Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Cookie, You're not going to believe this, but I was sitting directly across from Randy when that photo was taken. Glad you finally found where he's buried, and thanks for the link-up site. Take Care, Joe

Posted:
Name: amie close
Message: Glad to hear Doug Perry and Tommy Wilburn made it up to Ohio to go deer hunting with Roy and Gus , it is pretty cold and rainy but I am sure they are having a blast !!!!

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Oh....and if anyone is curious how my search for Randy turned out - with some help from his "little" bro, I came up with this: Randy Williford

Wouldn't it be great if someone who has the time could put together a virtual Ranger cemetery...we could visit all our loved ones who have passed on or given their lives for our freedom...no matter where in the world we are.

Love to all...~C

RLTW


Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Ok....is it just me or are we all saying "if memory serves me correctly" an awful lot lately?? :-)

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Doug: "Major" Howard WAS NOT at Camp Merrill when I first reported for duty as Cadre in Sept 1979. I had heard a lot about him from Ted Tilson and he liked to talk about him a lot when we both served together on the old "31 Staff". I believe he left Camp Merrill to go to Ft Bragg if memory serves me correctly, and I think it was Ted who told me that he went there to take over the JFK Warfare Center School for SF Selection and Training Candidates...so in summary, "Major" Howard departed Camp prior to Sept 79, and was at Bragg. Perhaps Ted can give you better info. I have not heard anymore about his condition. My regards to all who knew him and served with him. Ted told me that he was a great Officer, good Ranger, and really good man. I believe I remember there was something about his vision. Again, if memory serves correctly, I think Ted told me that he was blind, or partially blind in one eye, and that it played "hell" with his night vision on Ranger Patrols.

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: Hey Chris, what a very pleasant update from you. I am so glad you are okay and doing very well. Yeah, it was Milford Pace but I couldn't remember the DZ and your are right now that you reminded me it was Garrett DZ. I miss all you HHC guys terribly. It really makes me feel good to know you are doing well. You were always very kind and polite to me (must be the Indian thing, I am part Cherokee LOL. No Chris you really were a good soldier and a nice guy. Please email me some along the way or post on here so that I can hear from you every once and awhile. Take care Chris.

Posted:
Name: "O"
Message: Earle, sorry about the mix up, that message about Bob Howard was for you, Ooopps.... I hate it when that happens.... JIM

Posted:
Name: "O"
Message: Doug, If my memory serves my correctly Bob Howard arrived to MRC in NOV 76, he was the Patrolling Comm. OIC for awhile, then became the Camp XO when he was promoted to Major,... I believe he departed MRC in Mar or April of 78 ? Hope this helps, JIM

Posted:
Name: c.piland
Message: my manners. hello to all!!! T. Wilburn, A. Parten and the rest of you. it has been several years since i even got on this website. sorry it has been so long. i did take the time to review the messages from old. to ranger Bob Kaufman, i did run into the newer version of sgt. Hershey at FT. Bragg back in "95" when i was with 18th ABN CORP LRSC. it was kinda funny as i walked up to him in passing i immediatley recognized him, but i was used to seeing non-com rank on his bdu's. he graciously accepted my salute to my surprise he was a 2nd lt.(butter bar) we shared a few quick laughs and were then on our way.once again would like to say hi to all that know me, i am still a cop and still live in south Texas. i have taken up flying and now fly airplanes as a hobby. also made the SWAT tm at my respected Police Dept. was wanting to ask any other rangers here how i can get my hands on a "Ranger handbook" some of my fellow swat members need lessons in KNOT tieing, plus there is alot of info in it that i would just like to freshen up on. i found one here locally, but was very spendy $$$. also joined the Texas Lipan Apache tribe and currently a member of the gourd dance society. its for warriors or veterans. hehee i was able to hide my heritage from my fellow ranger buddies there in the mountains. we always got made fun of for god knows what, so i figured i would keep that to myself. yes i am an Apache indian, but oh well. to Al parten...who could ever forget the "x-man" that dog was your best pal..he went everywhere with you. well it being December i will say to everyone 'Merry Christmas" if i dont make it back on here before then.i was also saddened to hear about the fallen comrades that i learned about while reading past messages.and i always ask...but has anyone heard from or talked to Al Brashier..if so..please tell him i said hi....good friend..and i know that he and T. Wilburn were close. nothing but respect for you all...RLTW!!!!

Posted:
Name: C.PILAND
Message: HI CATHY, THIS IS SGT. PILAND OR CHRIS. I READ YOUR MESSAGE ON THE POSTING ABOUT THE RANGER THAT WAS INJURED ON THE ELECTRIC WIRE. HIS LAST NAME WAS “PACE”. I KNOW DUE TO THE FACT THAT I WAS AT THE BOTTOM OF THE POLE WHEN IT HAPPENED. HIS WOUNDS WERE A LOT WORSE THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE. THE ELECTRICITY ENTERED THRU HIS HAND AND BLEW OUT THE INNER PART OF HIS THIGH. IF MEMORY SERVES ME CORRECTLY IT WAS GARRET FARMS DZ. I KNOW IT HAD A CREEK THAT RAN THRU THE MIDDLE OF IT AND I WAS TASKED OUT ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WITH OTHER RANGERS TO BLOW THE BEAVER DAM THAT THE BEAVERS WOULD BUILD AND FLOOD OUR DZ. I KNOW PACE WAS IN THE HOSPITAL FOR SOME TIME AND YES IT DID END HIS CAREER.

Posted:
Name: Robert K. Suchke
Message: Earl, Bob Howard was Honor Grad of Ranger Class 7-73 which went from March - May 1973. I know he was at the Mountain Camp in 1977, but that's the best I can do. Some of you later guys can fill in the exact dates. Quest was there, so perhaps he knows.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Does anyone know the dates Col Howard served at the Mountain Ranger Camp. I plane to write an article in the local paper and need the dates. RLTW

Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: anybody know the latest status of our ranger buddy col bob howard? whoever has contact please update me (us) on his illness. another great american hero!....rltw.....ted tilson

Posted:
Name: Ramon Bual
Message: Thanks Joe A. I can rest easy about Johnny Houston. I left Afghanistan about a month ago, Pat Smith and I were on the same team there and was just throwing some names around. Some old Ranger Buddies are getting hurt contracting or still on active duty and no one hears about it.Heading to the Philippines to do a contract there.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks Cathy same to you as well. For all Rangers, with the up and coming 20th anniversary of "Operation Just Cause", I've been asked to write an article about it. While doing some research, I thought I would try to "google earth" a photo of Rio Hato Runway, and sure enough, there it was. I first had to enter Rio Hato, then I fooled around with the zoom and direction controls until I got right over the runway. Man, this google earth stuff is pretty incredible. I'll be you could google earth the Mountain Ranger Camp, Point Salinas Grenada, and any number of places. Just thought I'd leave this post for those of you who haven't tried it yet. PS, don't tell anyone about it in the Intelligence Community. They'd probably lose "billions" in funding. Joe

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: LOL Joe! It seems everytime I write something on here no one else does for days, I run them off it seems. Have a blessed day Joe!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: but Cathy,....if we emailed you direct, then nobody else would be able to read our mail,...and they'd all "gossip"! Thanks for your thoughts and prayers, especially for todays, modern and very busy Rangers. Joe

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: The first thing I thought about this morning when I awoke was how thankful I am for the military and their families. I have been thinking over and over again about the soldiers who will not be feasting on this day with their families and I just wanted all of you to know you are constantly in my thoughts and always in my prayers. I am so thankful for my journey of 26 years working with you and I cannot put into words what all of you really mean to me. My heart explodes with patriotism 24-7 and I so grateful for what you have taught me. Thank you and may all you have a blessed day and remember the ones who are away from the families and the ones who are having their blessed dinner with the Lord. May God always blessed and keep you safe. RLTW always! [p.s. my email works in case one day anybody would just like to say hello from time to time :) ]

Posted:
Name: ed yazzie
Message: yah a tah back to you greg. i got out in december of 1991. they had us doing post details after desert storm. you can only bury so many vets, and drive ait kids to class before it gets to you. i tried to get orders for korea but got turned down so i decided to leave the army. gil was a boilermaker for a bit, we worked in other states together then he decided to stay on the rez. i havent seen him yet since i posted these messages but i know i ll see him today and tell him you all said hi. have a good thanksgiving.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Steve Hawk: Nice story in the online version of the 1974 "Originals" of 1st Bn Ranger, 75th Inf Regiment. Nice photo as well. Happy Thanksgiving old friend. Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Jan and I would like to wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving, and to all that we ever served with, we give a special thanks for the happy memories of Thanksgiving in the past. Many of you were "barracks rats"...at one time or another, and Jan's "down home" country home cooking, fed many of you over the years, who managed to make it to our table, wherever it was at the time. Well, she's doing it again. Come on by, if you find yourselves in our area. You're always welcome, and I might be able to find something that we can "pull a cork" out of. Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Posted:
Name: Robert K. Suchke
Message: Just to add to Joe's message. Bob Howard was one of my Ranger students in Class 7-73. I later worked with him in SF. Message folllows: I very much regret to inform you that recent Foundation board member and immediate past president of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, Bob Howard, has been diagnosed with non-operable pancreatic cancer that has spread to his liver. His life expectancy is limited. He is presently in St. Luke's Baptist Hospital in San Antonio and has begun a very hard chemo therapy regimen. We are unsure of how long he will remain in the hospital. He is very weak has been reluctant to accept phone calls at the present time. We will provide more information as we are able to get it.As an aside, in typical Bob Howard fashion, despite feeling terrible, he joined his fellow recipients in Seattle recently for the University of Washington Medal of Honor Memorial dedication on Veterans Day. He moved slowly and was very weak and unable to eat much...it was obvious that he was "gutting it out." He even took the time, on top of other scheduled events, to speak to several classes at the University of Washington and to a local Rotary luncheon. He just wouldn't say no, regardless of how badly he felt. Please keep Bob in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Buddy Gilbert 601 Elm PlaceEdmonds Wa. 98020 cell 206 851 2559

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: With regrets, I have to pass on that Colonel Bob Howard isn't doing too well, and isn't expected to live much longer. He is currently at Saint Lukes Baptist Hospital in San Antonio, Texas, for all that ever served with him, or who knew him. Regards...Joe

Posted:
Name: Greg Baker
Message: Ed Yazzie, Yaa'teeh.

Thanks for the update on Gilbert.

How about you? You still in?

I'm a double digit midget myself.


Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Rangers

I asked the Great Ranger In the Sky to watch over everyone of you this Thanksgiving. If you are with family and friend, be thankful and if you are apart from your loved ones, know that you are remmembered at my table with my family prayers.

I have so much to be thankful for, and that list includes my friendships with all of you.

Happy Tahnksgiving

Ranger Hawk


Posted:
Name: Johnny
Message: Roy,,, whats up brother...Where are you now??? I lost touch after good ole FT Polk..... Hope all is well... Talk to you soon.

Posted:
Name: Scott Carter
Message: I'm at FOB Salerno. Any Rangers here or passing through give me a hollar..we'll do refreshments and swap lies. Roshan 0797963199. RIP Col. Millet. I met him twice while stationed in Hawaii. One of a kind.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Well, doggone....Thanks Ed Yazzie! Tell your Uncle I said "Hi". Glad to know that he's still "alive and kicking". That was only about....26 years or so ago...when I last saw him. Thanks again.

Posted:
Name: Roy Close
Message: Doug Perry you still coming? Left a message on your other e-mail. Tom is still on and if Danny is coming along got a spare bullet launcher if he needs it, let me know.

Posted:
Name: ed yazzie
Message: to joe mattison and greg baker, found a message you left in december 2008 concerning gilbert yazzie. he is alive and well living in arizona, i know this for a fact because he is my uncle. just fyi if you were still wondering

Posted:
Name: Johnny
Message: Bual and Cookie, Joe said you where asking about me... Its been awhile. I hope every thing is going well for you both... Look forward to hearing from you. Johnny

Posted:
Name: Bob Dawes
Message: Doug Perry, left a message on your machine, not sure if you got it. Give me a call (303)570-6659.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: For all who are interested and can attend, the 3rd Ranger Battalion awards ceremony at Ft Benning, is on the 24th of November. I believe the start time is 1230 hrs. A Silver Star to a SSG Squad Leader, for actions in Afghanistan, is but one of the awardees. Take care Rangers.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I've just been informed that General Motors is giving discounts to Active Duty and Reservists, for the next 60 days.

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...even I met Lew Millett...he was living out in west tennessee when I left the Army and had my first Chick-fil-a restaurant in Jackson, TN...

...some feather merchant named Isaac Tigrett opened up a little bbq place called "the hard rock cafe"...and he had me for competition...his mother and uncle owned the mall where we were both located...and as good as my business became in ´83, I couldn´t understand why the mother was giving me such a hard time...she was "old money" from railroads and much too refined to even notice one of her tenants...but she was furious at me for doing so well...

...a few months later, Isaac closed the doors on his place, taking all the john lennon pictures, elvis guitars and all that other junk to NYC...and he´s done okay since then...but try to compete with a Ranger?...pity the fool...

...Lew Millett told me that day of his son who went down on the plane that exploded...right now I´m trying to remember if it was the Lockerbie, Scotland bombing that claimed others of the 101st back in the early 80's...

...he was in town for some ceremony...Medal of Honor heroes do get called for those times of national pride and like Ted said, he somehow took a shine to me too and told me stories and how he still did one armed push ups until I thought I needed to do some serious PT just to be around the man...

...each one of us, as RI´s made an impression on some young stud, and we probably didn´t even realize it...but for each of us...to remember the admiration and appreciation of the legends among us keeps the blood clear and the life flowing...and they are with us today...at each meeting, at each CCO...

...and still, among us, are giants who walk this earth, and for those who´ve gone before, they watch over us from wherever they choose to be...

...RLTW brothers...


Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Got some bad intel on Col. Millet's desertion, but I found an interview with him so I'll set it straight. He joined the National Guard in 1938. He was in the Guard for 12 years before he became Regular Army. When he got the MOH in Korea, he was a Guardsman on extended active duty. He joined the Army Air Corps while a senior in high school, but heard a speech by Pres. Roosevelt that we would not fight Germany. He deserted and went into the Canadian Army. He trained in radar. By the time his unit got to England the US was in the war and he was allowed to transfer to the American Army, assigned to the 1st Armored Div. From there he went to North Africa.

Posted:
Name: Bill Miller
Message:

Not only was Col. Millett instrumental in establishing the Recondo school. He also was an Advisor to the Vietnamese Rangers. Col. Millett was awarded the 1st Vietnamese Ranger Badge (Biet Dong Quan)of which only approximately 2500 were awarded.

Col. Millett served as Grand Marshall for the "Salute to veterans Parade" in Riverside, CA this past April. Earlier this year, a park in San Jacinto was dedicated in his name.

He was a soldier's soldier who was always available for the troops. All the BDQ are saddened by his passing and he will be missed.

To you Col. Millett "Biet Dong Quan Sat".


Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: rangers, it's a sad time for me. i knew 'bayonet millett', from my early days in the 101st abn, (note: i didn't add airmobile), he was the cmdr at ft devins, mass. i was a sp/4 in summer of '67'. i was screwing up at the time and got called into his office for some remedial ass-kicking. anyway, to make a long story short, for some reason he took a liking to me and proceeded to give me a guided tour of his office with all his 'stuff'. he also gave me a motivational speech that i've never forgotten. in 1987 i went to the ausa convention in wash. dc. guess who was there, yep, and believe it or not guys, he remembered me way back then. its hard with veterans day last week and to hear about the passing of a true american hero...rltw....teddy bear tilson

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: It was announced on this message board the other day that Lew Millet has left us. Many of us know the name, but little else. Here is some intel on this great man.

Colonel (ret) Lewis L. Millet died recently at the age of 88. Before America entered WWII Millet left high school as the junior and migrated to Canada where he could join that army and fight Germans. He was overseas when the US came in, and he subsequently joined our Army. He was courtmartialed and fined $52 for desertion because he never signed up for the draft, immediately inducted into the US Army, given a battlefield commission to 2nd Lt and a bronze star. He already had a silver star for actions in North Africa. He also fought in Salerno and Anzio. He was part of the 1st Special Service Force later in the war.

After the war he joined the Maine National Guard and was called up for Korea with an artillery unit. Not long after he took over for a commanding officer who was killed. That put him with the 27th Infantry "Wolfhounds" of the 25th ID. It was there he led the men of his depleted company up a hill into murderous Chinese fire in a legendary bayonet charge that cleared the hill. The big man with the big red handlebar mustache was given the Medal of Honor for his actions on that hill.

After Korea he went through IOAC and Ranger School as a Major. In Vietnam, Millet, along with Colonel Fracis Kelley, CO of 5th SF, was instrumental in establishing the Nha Trang Recondo School, run by 5th Special Forces and Rangers. Many were both. Millet also was a force in training commandos in Laos. He was Honorary Colonel of the 27th Infantry Regiment and has held many posts in his retirement years. He was inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame in 1997. This is a lot of intel, but it is not all by a long shot. It's enough to tell you who we lost.


Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Derrick. Glad you made it back.Anyday just call me. I will be going up to your homestate of Ohio to do some hunting with Roy. I hope Chicken Hawk can make it this year. Tom Wilburn is supposed to meet us up there. Runyon what does the future hold,Can you get back to the Camp.? I hope so. Tell Lori and the redheaded stepchild Hello.See you in a couple of days, RLTW....

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ranger Runyon: Welcome back home.

Posted:
Name: Runyon
Message: Home again after 15 months away. Thanks for the entertainment. Doug, lets have a beer.

Posted:
Name: Howard Denton
Message: Very sorry to hear of COL Millett's passing yesterday after a brief hospitalization. He was a fine man and Ranger. Rest In Peace, sir. RLTW!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Rangers: I've recieved more then a couple of emails about CRSC. Let me try to explain it in another way. CRSC means; Combat Related Service Compensation. Combat Related (or Training under Combat Conditions) resulting in permanent injury(s) is the qualifier. Examples: Purple Heart with permanent injuries (Combat), Broken Back from a Night Training Jump (Training under Combat conditions). Both examples qualify. The Rules are: 1. You must be retired from the military for 20 or more years of service. 2. You must have a Veterans Administration Service Connected Disability. How to apply: Go to the CRSC website that is sponsored by the gov/mil, and download the application form. Fill out the application form, and attach copies of your VA Service Connected Disability Rating, Retirement Orders/Certificate/DD214. Attach copies of any Military Health Records that support the claim (if you have them). If you don't have them, don't worry, they can get them, and will anyway. Why CRSC: If you are retired from the military for 20 (+) years of service, draw a Retirment Check, and a VA Disability Check, then a portion of your Retirement money is deducted monthly due to you recieving a VA Disability Check. Congress has recognized this to be a serious flaw and a disservice to Career/Professional Service Members who served honorably and faithfully for 20 (+) years and then have a part of that Service Retirment deducted, due to a VA Compensation Check for a Service Connected Disability(s). In other words, many Retirees are making a non-tax deductible contribution to the DOD each and every month, because they get to keep the money that you aren't getting. All of this is supposed to go away in 2014 (I believe) and all Retirees with Service Connected Disabilities will begin to recieve both payments (one for Service and the other for Injuries)in the full amount. Until that day, CRSC has been established for a special group of Retirees who have Combat Related, or Training Under Combat Conditions injuries that are permanent. Some examples that probably apply to all of us Rangers are: Hearing Loss, Muscle/Skeletal Injuries/PTSD/Cold Weather Injuries that are debilitating etc,...not to mention the loss of a limb or site or anything else that may have happened to you, along the way. Remember, this is money that is owed to you as mandated by Congress. It's your back pay, that you haven't recieved for the many years that you drew a "partial" Retirement check, and a VA Disability Check. We can all thank Ranger Rice for bringing this subject up, and to the attention of all. Please pass the word. Thanks...Joe

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...thanks for all of your replies...they certainly are on point for what I´ve gone thru so far, for what to me is pretty easy, but that´s my warped way of thinking I´m sure...

...I´ve done all the things you´ve suggested, except for the courier part...that reminds me of my amigo in the cia who brought me my first cuban cigars back after he did some work down africa way, so that would be a solution, if someone in the consulate here would be so kind...and I guess that may be the only way this is to be done, other than just start getting my meds locally...and the VA price is much better...but oh, well...

...all good things for each of you...

...RLTW...


Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Thanks Joe A. - I do appreciate it! :-)

Mark - will the VA mail your scripts to a family member or friend in the States, and then that person could mail them to you? I guess you'd still take a chance of having them confiscated if either US or Mexico law prohibits international mailing of scripts....but then how do all the expats get their meds? There must be a solution. Good luck!

~C


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Mark, I don't know the answer to your question but I would suspect that the VA does not mail/ship to an overseas address. The VA has hospitals and clinics in many places overseas, but they are all on US Soil or are under American protectorate status of somekind. Try contacting the VA by telephone is all I can suggest. Contact the last place that you did a VA visit, and they will have you in their computer system. They can also advise you on what can be done, if anything about sending to an overseas address. Sorry, but the long and short of it is: I don't know.

Posted:
Name: Joe Amerling
Message: cookie, spoke with johnny today he did not take the job in Kansas and told him you said hey. Also told him about the site maybe he'll log on.

Posted:
Name: "O"
Message: Mark, have you checked with the American Embassy to see if a Courier with “Diplomatic Immunity” can bring in the items for you, once a quarter and you could pick them up from the Embassy. It's amazing what these guys can bring in and out. "O"

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...I went back 28 pages to find Joe Mattison´s email address...so don´t think I´m just taking up space here...

...my medications from the VA can´t be shipped to Mexico?...I have tried to submit a question to the VA Medical Dept online, but they say I have to register, and I did...only to find out that somehow I´m already registered, but I sure didn´t do it...and I have no idea how to access the site to ask the question as to why and how my meds can get to me way down here on the tip of the Yucatan...

...I´ve waited for some time only to find out that...and my meds are running out...no big deal, I´ll just croak and they won´t have the problem any more...but Joe, the Man, Mattison...can you tell me if there is something I don´t know about getting my medications to me down here...the ups/fedex types in the US say it can´t be done...???...there has to be some sanity left that can understand that sealed medications are not illegal heroin and such...

...bout time that critter'n cookin' got settled...good job of keeping your always keen disposition, Herr Hawk...


Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Joe. I believe Cpt. Hansen was the CO 2nd Ranger company in April 61 or he took over shortly afterwards.There was another Hansen there but he was enlisted.Cpt. Hansen was a tall blond guy ,but I do remember that he was CO 2nd Ranger company. Anyway I got there in Mar. 1961 and I believe this to be correct.RLTW...

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I got home late last night after a very short visit with 3/75 at Ft Benning. I haven't been to their new barracks area, and in fact, I haven't been to Ft Benning since 1998. I was very impressed with their new Battalion area, and the buildings are very modern. I walked into my old A Co orderly Room, and just "looked around". I was very surprised to see that all of the old plaques and trophies that were earned by that Company, as well as some "War Trophies" from Panama, Somalia, Iraq etc,...were there. The Memorial dedicated to all who served 3/75 and were either killed in training or combat is very nice. To be honest with you, all of it came back a little too fast for more. I saw some of "the boys"....and they are still the same, as they always have been. I didn't stay long.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Hi Joe A. - please send my regards the next time you speak with Johnny. Thanks, ~Cookie

Posted:
Name: Joe Amerling
Message: Do any of you old rangers remember Tom Hansen probably at the camp in the 60's possibly a Lt. or Cpt. He passed away on Saturday from lung disease in Gainesville Georgia he was 75. The obituary said that he retired as a LTC in the early 80's after 23 years of service.

Posted:
Name: Joe Amerling
Message: I spoke with Johnny last week he was still in Washington State retired. I believe he just accepted a job at the War College in Kansas and was planning to head out there as early as this week.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: As in....Johnny Houston? Is he still around?

Posted:
Name: Bual
Message: Has anyone seen or heard from J. Houston? Last I saw him was at Ft. Lewis.

Posted:
Name: ron rice
Message: Rangers, thanksfor receiving my info on CRSC. one more thing and i will leave the message log alone for a while. If you wear any type of brace (i wear a lower left leg, foot and ankle brace) or any prosthetic device, enclose a picture of you wearing said device and staple it to your paperwork. Have a great Veterans Day. RLTW R Rice

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: I grew up thinking veterans were old men who fought in old wars. Then came Vietnam and my friends were going away. Some of them didn't come back and the ones that did were different somehow. I began to realize what war was and what service to your country meant. You are all heroes in my book. Thank you.

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart. I love all of you and you are in my heart each and every day. May God bless you. Rangers Lead The Way!

Posted:
Name: Brian Cunningham
Message: On this Veterans' Day, 2009, I want to thank each of you for your service to our country.

Each of us has in some way contributed to the freedom we enjoy as Americans.

I am greatly encouraged by the caliber of service men and women we are seeing today. Never miss the opportunity to thank them, too.


Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Also guys - don't hesitate to use the appeals process if you feel that a decision is not right. You may have to appeal several times to get what you are due as far as VA disability benefits are concerned. I did all the paperwork for my (then) husband, and I appealed several times until the VA came through with the "correct" decision. It took a total of 5 years, but he received back pay for those years. Joe and Earl are right - it is best to speak with a Veterans Services Officer as that is their specialty, but don't be afraid to push what you know is right.

And thanks, guys, for the info on CRSC - I passed that info along to my ex. Although he receives full compensation as 100% disabled, his retirement (CRDP) is taxed. If I understand this CRSC correctly, retirement (like VA disablity) is not taxed?

RLTW


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Earl, that is very good advice. Each VA Medical Center has a Veterans Service Office to help the Veteran through the different VA processes. I also want to add a personal recommendation and that is to contact a Veterans Service Officer who represents the Disabled American Veterans Association. They are very good at getting the "paper work" through the many In and Out boxes of the different VA Offices for filing of VA Claims. When it comes to VA Health Care, getting signed on is very easy, and thats accomplished at any VA Hospital in their Veterans Service Office, and many VA Hospitals also accept TriCare for Spouses and family members of the Veteran. Not all do, but many do, and it depends on what their overall Veterans case load is, for that particular area. For many Veterans who are self employed, and lacking a Health Care program, or paying a high premium for Health Care, this may be the better way to go....utilizing an existing benefit, being the VA Health Care System. Thanks Earl, and Ron. I've discovered since working for the Veterans Administration that the biggest problem is the Veteran who doesn't take the time, to ask for help, or even begin to investigate what is available. Most of us just get on with out lives, but we are leaving a lot of benefits or money behind when we do that. Again, thanks Joe

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Joe Ron, thanks for your post. As I have said before there are a lot of benefits available for Veterans, the problem is getting the word out. I write an article each week for the Dahlonega Nugget called the Veteran's Corner,I put in a lot of information on veterans benefits. I have done a lot of research for these articles and the best source of information is military.com. They make it simple and easy to understand. I also get some information from va.gov, but let me tell you, it can sometimes be hard to figure what they are saying. I have a college degree but a GED brain so it has to be pretty simple for me. One peace of advice I have for veterans, NEVER EVER FILL OUT THE PAPPER WORK BY YOURSELF. Get a Service Officer to help you. Most States and veterans organizations has a service officer. Do a little research and you can find one. For you local veterans if I can help give me a call,I'm in the book.RLTW Earl

Posted:
Name: ron rice
Message: Rangers may i add to mr mattison and my message. do not just fill out the app. you need documentation and dates. do not be afraid to talk to these folks that handles the paper work. they are very nice and professional and one govt agency that does care (unlike the VA system) and they will help you. you got it coming to you, if you fit the category. i have to go to a jump school reunion in may (from 1958) may be i can make it to the cco. the crsc includes agent orange which i have, diabetes, any combat injuries which i have, hearing losses and the list goes on. file and see what happens and good luck. RLTW Rice

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: To all Retired Rangers: Mr Ron Rice has given some VERY good advice. I urge all retirees to investigate CRSC and to make application. CRSC and CRDP are two different programs, and you can "google" the information you need to make application. When you make application for CRSC compensation, the DA Review board will look at your military service, combat service, or any training that was routinely conducted under combat simulated conditions. All Rangers who are retired, and have some kind of existing VA disability should also make application to CRSC. CRDP is the "phased in" program that is ongoing right now, where full compensation for Service Retirement AND full compensation for VA Disabilities will happen, at some time in the future. What is really significant about CRSC is that a portion of your service retirement will become tax exempt, and you still receive you full VA disability payment. It's a complicated formula that I think involves voodoo and mojo bones, but someone in DFAS does know how to compute the numbers once a Disabled Veteran with an existing VA disability payment, is approved for CRSC. What Ron is trying to simply say, and I have probably made confusing is: If your a retired Veteran with an existing VA disability, then you ought to apply for CRSC as well. CRSC does NOT affect your VA disability, it only makes a portion of your retirement "tax free", for us retirees, and in some cases (such as Ron's) you may also get some back pay. As I said, "google up" CRSC, look on the list for the DFAS site and it will explain all of it, and you can also download the application form. Make sure that you send in all military documentation with the application that would further justify CRSC entitlement as well as a copy of you VA Disability rating. As Ron states, it is a fair and square deal, and we retired Veterans are finally getting some owed back pay....that we've gone without for many, many years. I am a VA disability recipient AND 50% CRSC with an effective date of January, 2004 (when made CRSC effective). It's your money, but you do have to make application. It's not always automatic....at least not yet.

Posted:
Name: ron rice
Message: my fellow RANGERS some of you may be eligible for CRSC i received 40 thousand plus $601.00 a month for the rest of my life and it can be updated and amounts added to your monthly comp. as you get older and worse in your related health problems. i got mine this year. its not hard to get. i put in for it and 90 days later i got my money. RLTW Rice

Posted: 11/6/2009
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Rangers

The Critter Cookout will be held in conjunction with the 5th RTB Open House at Camp Frank Merril on 29 May 2010.

Friday night prior will be the Fish Fry with all the fixins on the 28th. We will serve Saturday around 1630 hours and have the USMRA meeting at 1800 hours.

Rangers and families are Welcomed.

I know many of you have been waiting and we just received guidance from 5th RTB Command which gave us the dates and their requests. Now you know, plan accordingly. See you there.

Rangers Lead the Way

Ranger Hawk


Posted: 11/3/2009
Name: Al P.
Message: So sorry to hear about Jim, would liked to have come to the service, but had to work. He made the best BBQ sauce I've ever had. He will be missed by all that knew him.

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Jim Squires was a good man, a Ranger in his heart. I always enjoyed talking to him.

Posted:
Name: Joe Amerling
Message: We laid Ranger Squires to rest yesterday at Memorial Park Cemetery. The ceremony was small. It was an honor to meet some of his Korean War Veterans who all wore their garrison caps with Korean War Veteran proudly displayed on them. There is not a time that goes by when I encounter a veteran from WWII to present that I don't thank him or her for their service. Ranger Squires will be missed.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: All Rangers/Veterans: I'm getting some email from old friends who are asking me about different Veterans Administration programs and availabilities. I'm not the expert on the Veterans Administration, but I can "steer" you to an expert who knows just about anything you want to know about the VA, and what it can do for you. At any VA Medical Facility, there is a Veterans Service Office, and they are the one's who can answer just about any question you may have, and what you have to do, to make application for Veterans Benefits. There is another source that all Veterans should probably have at home with them, and that is the pamphlet entitled "Federal Benefits For Veterans, Dependents, and Survivors". This pamphlet is updated annually. The current 2009 version is available to all Veterans by one of three ways, that I know of. The easiest and quickest way to get your own copy is to down load it in PDF. You can get it by going to the website www.va.gov/OPA/vadocs/current_benefits.asp and once you get to that site, you simply down load each chapter, punch three holes into all pages and put them into a 3 ring binder. The other way is to request a copy to be mailed to you. Call 1-800-827-1000 and ask for the pamphlet to be mailed. You can also write and ask for the pamphlet from the VA. Just send a handwritten letter requesting the pamphlet (with your return name/address) to: Dept of Veterans Affairs, Office of Public Affairs (80 D), 810 Vermont Avenue, Washington, DC 20420. This pamphlet consists of an Introduction Chapter, 14 specialty chapters, and 2 appendixes which of which, one of them lists the internet address for all VA agencies that are under the VA System to help Veterans. Lastly: Joe Amerling....my regards to the loss of your friend, Ranger James Squires. Glad to know that your ok and doing well. Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Amerling
Message: We lost another Ranger this week some of you may have known James Terrell Squires. He was a Korean war veteran and when healthy used to attend the association meetings at camp. Jim passed away on Thursday, there is visitation at Mason and Ward funeral home in Gainesville from 2-5 tomorrow Sunday 11/1/09. You can also go to the funeral home web site to view his obituary. Grave side services will be on Monday at Memorial Park cemetery at 1100 hours. I was fortunate to know Jim he was a good man and a proud Ranger and man could he make some good barbeque. He will be missed. RLTW

Posted:
Name: Sasquatch Smitty
Message:

Hi, what is up with this CCO? I'm ready to give everybody a "No Go" for planning phase for the CCO!!! smitty


Posted:
Name: Al P.
Message: Well, what I mean to say Joe, is that I am pretty fed up with all the talk about when and where. I understand the hows and whys. Been to all the meetings and heard all the discussions. Everyone one has good Ideas, but the actual people that do the Cookin', Pete, Tilson, Bishop and myself, seem to be left out of the decision making process. We all know it revolves around what the Cmd Staff at CFM decides, it is their Camp. Someone brought up, " why do we start cooking so early " Well for the amount of meat we smoke, it takes between 6 to 10 hrs, then you got the stews, Boils , sides etc... Also, we have never ran out of food, last year Hawk, Tammy and I threw out ( Sunday ) morning, a 30 Qt pot of stew, about 20 lbs of low country boil, and many other Items , we started serving at 1500. So, with that said, cut me up and feed me to the wolves. Let me know when and where to have my cookers and I'll be there as usual. Out

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Hey Al, I've got an idea, I'll bring the beer, and the meat, and you bring yourself, and your side kick. We'll have our own critter cookout, just like we used to do, and our wives did all of the "trimmings". I'll call you next time I'm going to be in/around Dahlonega.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Thanks Roy...and Joe. While I am not Catholic, Roman or otherwise, Saint medals are worn on charm bracelets quite often. I wanted to add one to my "Ranger Tribute" bracelet, so I needed to know which Saint was the correct one. :-) I'll share a picture of my bracelet one day - I found some old Ranger charms just last week and need to add them to my bracelet. Now...if I could just find one of an open parachute, I would be happy.

RLTW


Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: I am so tired of hearing all the BS about the CCO, that I am no longer interested in it. I really hope you Rangers get it figured out. A.P.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: To All Rangers with College eligible or soon to be College eligible students in the house hold. I have been asked to get the word out from Linc German, President of USARA, that there is a fully funded scholarship available to children and grandchildren of Rangers and former Rangers. The scholarship is at Georgia Southern, in Statesboro Georgia, about 50 miles north/northeast of Savannah. You can go online and check out the scholarship information. Go to: http://admissions.georgiasouthern.edu/scholarships.htm and look it up under the Ranger Haywood Scholarship Program. It's a complete and total "free education" for those students who academically qualify. I hope that his helps someone. It's available to Children and Grandchildren of former Rangers, Retired Rangers, and Active Duty Rangers, and applies to both in State and out of State applicants. Take care, Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks Roy and Doug, I agree. I especially like Dougs comment about..."stop the leg sh**". Airborne Rangers are famous for their ability to plan and coordinate, in a timely manner, conduct troop leading procedures, then conduct brief back to verify understanding. This takes time, and it takes effort. The localized "in house" bickering about all of it, and the "Bear" that was brought up earlier, isn't the way to conduct an Airborne Ranger Operation. We only "improvise, adapt, and overcome" due to unforseen circumstances, but we Rangers don't routinely operate that way because that's how "Legs" do it, by pulling "sh**" out of their "a**" at the last minute, then do the blame game, when all goes bad. Thanks Doug. Best description of the mess, that I've read lately. Yes, Cookie. Roy is correct about the "official" Patron Saint, but I think it only works if you're Roman Catholic. I have to defer you to the Vatican on that one, to clarify. Been fun, take care Rangers.

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Roy Close .. I will be there for the hunt.I am like Roy Close stop this Leg SH** and get along with living.RLTW...

Posted:
Name: Roy Close
Message: To Tom Wilburn is your e-mail still the same? Deer hunting is approaching quik, already invited Chad. Doug Perry can you and Danny make it this year? First week after Thanksgiving, will have a roof,heat and cots this year! Cookie, Saint Michael has always been the Patron Saint of the Airborne don't know about the rest sorry. To my fellow Rangers lets set the critter cookout for open house that way Rangers can plan for it. We need to stop the bickering and remember the reason we started the USMRA before we drive friends and brothers away. God bless all Rangers everywhere and keep your powder dry.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: So you don't know, Joe?? :-P

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Cookie, thats a pretty simple answer. When a Paratrooper is about to do a Combat Jump into enemy fire, he usually calls upon any and all Saints, and a few others that aren't Saints, and even a few others who would never be considered for Saint Hood. I guess all them apply, given the different circumstances. If any of all of them are listening, and they protect that soon to be Combat Jump Star wearing Paratrooper, then who cares which one counts the most. All will be called upon again, should it be required, I would think.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Another question that is easier to answer than my previous question (I hope):

Who is the Patron Saint of Airborne Rangers?

It appears that Saint Michael is the Patron Saint of Paratroopers, and I have read that Saint Andrew is the Patron Saint of Army Rangers. I have also seen mention of Saint George as Patron Saint of Airborne/Paratroopers. So, what's the correct answer?


Posted:
Name: Just Jan
Message: My son Cc Brooks is doing a project for college and wants any "stories" or "memories" from the time his dad "Ray Brooks" was at RTB (yrs were 84 till 88 )and photos if anyone has any ....Thanks and be blessed.....

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Yeah, I tried the VA site immediately after obtaining that info, but I came up empty-handed there. Pretty cool info page on VA cemeteries that does allow you to search....in case, anyone needs that info. It's an excellent resource and very well put together by the VA.

And if what I have found is correct,there are three cemeteries on Ft. Rucker - two appear to be very old "family" plots, with one bigger cemetery near one of the major roads through Rucker.

I haven't tried calling Rucker yet, but I did reach out to the Chamber of Commerce in the hopes that they may lead me in the right direction. Now, I suppose I need to contact Rucker and the County Court System there (that was the only suggestion from the Chamber of Commerce).

And I suppose you are right....I need closure. I didn't attend the funeral all those years ago because I couldn't make myself go alone. I've always regretted that bad decision.

And maybe it's what Jimmie mentioned...time flying away so fast now. We'll all be home before we know it....and maybe I'm trying to make things right before I go home. :-/

Thanks again for the pointers, Joe - although this search is difficult in several ways, I will not stop until I find Randy again. (yeah...I'm still just as stubborn-headed as I used to be - time doesn't change some things)

RLTW ~ all ways...always


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Cookie, another thought on this....it's possbible that there is a Cemetary on Ft Rucker. The probability is that it's not an "official" National Cemetary ran/managed by the Veterans Administration. You may have to make a phone call to the Ft Rucker Operator, and ask for assistance. It's possbible that he may be buried on Ft Rucker, if they have a cemetary, like many other large posts and installations have, such as the one at Ft Benning. Jimmie, you are ohhh, so right.

Posted:
Name: Owens
Message: ** If only I had known the "Good Old Days" was while I was at MRC, I would have paid more attention and actually enjoyed it more... Sometimes you do not realize what you have in your hands untill it's GONE... How do you slow down this ride anyway? Seems the Older I get, the faster the train speeds up.... JIM

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Cookie, There's your next clue. Google up the National Cemetary at Dothan Alabama. Many of the National Cemetaries have a site that you can go to, and locate the grave site of a Veteran. Some don't. All National Cemetaries are on the internet....check it out for yourself....National Cemetaries....and you'll probably come to a Veterans Administration National Cemetary Home Page...then go to the Dothan National Cemetary. As a minimum, the point of Veterans Administration Office phone number and email, will be listed for you to contact, and they maintain a very accurate roster of who is interred at that cemetary, and where. Thanks Al, I thought we were in Dugway at the time. I seem to have been at a PI Briefing when it was announced, and I thought it was in the old PI Briefing Room at Dugway. Good luck Cookie with your quest. Take the VA Cemetary Route, and I think, you'll have your anwers. It's time to bring closure to this, and I understand how important it is to you. Good Luck, warmest regards, and all of our love to you, and the "Good Old Days".

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Thanks Al - I'm not sure how to get in touch with Ivan. A few weeks ago, I looked up the Wingmen's website and emailed the webmaster there, hoping that he may have some info. He only came back with the VA cemetery in Dothan. And I only asked that he pass along a message saying hello to Ivan (I didn't wanna push my luck). But I suppose I could bother him again to see if he'll check with Ivan. I did notice that the Wingmen are having a "get-together" in Dawsonville this weekend. I'll be at my new place over the weekend and it's not far from Dawsonville - I might drive over and see if I recognize any of the guys.

I have also tried to locate a phone number for Randy's dad, and although there is one listed in Dothan, I don't think it's the right one. :-(

Well, if anyone has contact with Ivan, please let him know that I'd like to talk with him. In the meantime, I'll try the Wingmen webmaster again.

Thanks again Al & Joe!


Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: C , One of your best bets is to get in touch with Ivan Alston. He and Randy were very close. I was assigned to CFM when Randy had the Accident. Joe is correct, we were at Dugway when we got the bad news. Also, Randy was a member of the Wingman MC, some of those guys may be able to help, I have a Wingman Patch which is dedicated to Randy with the Date March 12 1987. Maybe that helps. A. P.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: You're welcome Cookie, but I'm not sure that I was any help at all. I'm sorry that I can't seem to remember any more of the details, but I do remember that the two of you were pretty close back then, and before he died. Another thought, and only a possible on this, would be to contact Francisco Flores (Frank). See if he's on the membership rolls, and if he has an address. If memory serves me correctly, I believe that he and Randy were neighbors. He may remember something more then Craig or I do. Thanks for the flowers at the Memorial. It's been mentioned before by others, who have seen them.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Thanks Joe - Craig brought up Ft. Rucker too, so I guess I'll look there next. Got two more emails out to RIs who I think were there during that time period - maybe one of them will come up with something for me.

I did attend Open House the year that Randy was on the Fallen Ranger list - first time that I'd been to Open House in many, many years. I tied some yellow flowers and ribbon on the Fallen Ranger sign before it was moved to its permanent home - then I just took some flowers up there and placed them at the base of the sign - for all Fallen Rangers. I haven't been able to keep the flowers up, but after my move (soon now), I will be closer to the area and maybe I can make sure there are always nice flowers at the base of those signs.

My search continues....


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Sorry Cookie, that's about all I thought I remembered of it. Randy was added to the Fallen Ranger Memorial of this Organization back in 2007, and you can look up his bio., written by his father. He mentions that he graduated from Daleville High School, Ft Rucker, Alabama. That may be a clue. It's been too many years, and too many Rangers, for me to remember. I believe I was doing a Desert Training rotation when he died, and when we returned, most of the arrangements were already ongoing. Good luck with your quest.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Joe - are you kidding me? No, I don't think Craig was on the color guard. If he was and hasn't spoken up, I guess I'll have to take a short drive over to "say hello". Made me think for a minute but....I'm pretty sure that Craig was in Hawaii at the time.

You were in Hawaii, weren't you, Craig??


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Cookie, Email Craig Polzin (look him up on the membership roster). If memory serves me correctly, he was on the Color Guard that we sent to the funeral.

Posted:
Name: A week from today...
Message: Ok - guess no one knows the name or location of the cemetery...how 'bout Randy's father's (Ranger Lamont Williford) email address? Does anyone know it? The one I have for him is not good anymore - messages sent to it bounce back. Somebody help me out here....please. ~Cookie

Posted:
Name: Jim Regan
Message: Just checkin' in! I don't go too far back to read the entries in the Log. Last few talked about the "Real" date for the Critter Cookout and the "Open House." Does anybody talk with the CSM at the Mountain Ranger Camp? He should know what's supposed to go on in his AO! I plan to show up! Hi to all and 'specially those folks who were at the "MRC" with me from Dec '69- May'71.BDQ&RLTW Jim

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Any of you Rangers know or heard of Bob Delzell ? Class 2-70, says he is teaching in Saigon. Served with Col.Carvell, Ranger HOF. Says he served with the Americal Div 196th LIB. 69/70 He wants to chat with me on Facebook.

Posted:
Name: ~Cookie
Message: Does anyone know the exact name and location of the cemetary where Randy Williford is buried? His birthday is coming up and I'd like to place flowers.

Posted:
Name: Amerling
Message: I knew back in the day he kept one and there were no specific hours. Appreciate it bob. Joe

Posted:
Name: Bob Williams
Message: The staff duty NCO has let me in the museum a few times.

Posted:
Name: Amerling
Message: Question can you visit the museum the camp at any time?

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Mark, As you probably recall, every Battalion has a short and long range Training Calender. TO&E Units have to shuffle that calender due to "real world" mission deployments, but TDA Units, can pretty much "Lock In" their calenders. I'll bet that the 5th RTBn has known when their going to have their Open House for probably, the past 6 months or so. True, it may have been a "tentative", but when it's "Penciled In", then it's a very high probability of happening on the dates selected. This is what I can't understand. I can't understand why we can't seem to firm up a date for the Critter Cookout. Whether it's on the same day as the Open House, or another date. One thing is for sure, those Ranger Class Dates are carved into stone way out in advance, so the whole Army, as well as other Armies of the world, can schedule students to attend. The biggest group of attendees are those graduating from IOBC. This "ain't", and has never been, a hard thing to do, provided someone from USMRA is actually involved, and working in close cooperation with the 5th RTBn on a regular basis. Everyone has a telephone, and most have email, if someone can't drive that 9 mile road to Camp Merrill. As an example, I would say that no later then around June/July 2010, someone from USMRA needs to be in very close coordination with 5th RTBn, for the next years scheduled Critter Cookout in 2011. That would mean USMRA getting the word out NLT August 2010 for Critter Cookout, 2011. If we just keep "making it up as we go along"....then it will forever be something that only those who haven't got a job, or live close by, or are able to move their off time because they don't have a job such as I do....can attend. Frankly, I don't really care too much about the particulars of it, but I can't understand why we as an organization are unable to at least "lock in" the dates 7-8 months before the event. As another example, The US Army Ranger Association has already published the dates and location for their Annual ARM in San Antonio, Texas...for Sept, 2010. They constantly move the annual location of their Annual Ranger Musters so that all members, no matter where they live, will be able to attend at least one, every few years. It takes a whole lot more planning and coordination to do something like the ARM which lasts 6 days or so, and in different locations, then it does to throw a bunch of "Critters" on a grill, and pop the tops off beer bottles at the Club on Camp Merrill year after year and in fact, every year. What is the problem with all of this....except that damn bear and two factions pulling against each other? Another example again with US Army Ranger Association. When they meet in San Antonio, Texas, in Sept 2010, ALL attendees will vote on where they want to meet in in 2011. We are already discussing the pros and cons of having it at Ft Benning/Columbus or Savannah and Hunter AAF...and that discussion is ongoing right now, for 2011. We are doing it, using email, with open discussions, and "replies to all". There's no secrets. Ok...done with the rants and I'm out of here. Bulletin board is once again, open for whatever and whoever. Sorry for "bo-garting" the site. Take care Rangers....Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Mark, just a clarification to your last post. I was never, ever a SMA. SMA means "Sergeant Major of the Army". NO Mark, I was never a SMA. I always had a real job, with soldiers, all the time, and I never, ever served above Battalion Level as a CSM, now retired. I'm pretty proud of the fact that I stayed at Battalion Level for the 5 1/2 years of CSM time, and had 3 different Bns....One heavy, 1 light, and the famous....5th RTBn. I did however, get to serve on the Army Wide promotion board for E-8, Master Sergeant at the now defunct, Ft Benjamin Harrison, Indiana. That was a 30 day process in civilian clothes, getting to be a part of the panel that selected E-7s for promotion to E-8 in 11B, 11M, 11C, SF/Delta, and Psyops. Quite a panel, with great CSMs and 3 Officers. The process really is a good one. I wouldn't even know, how to make it better. that was then of course, I'm sure it's all different now.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Mark, I forgot the name of the award we used to give, and in fact, it was probably something simple like "gouge award"...or something like that. It was an award that we gave a Ranger Instructor who had some kind of "mis-adventure" during the previous class, and it was always given in good fun, and jest. You didn't happen to recieve that award by chance....did you?

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...today it's in the high 80's, Joe...december and january should be in the 70's...20 degrees latitude is pretty warm for sandals, shorts and t-shirts all year round...

...usually I got the patrol for descending Penitentiary Cove after being at Three Forks for planning...

...no one could miss Pen Cove...one step forward, ten steps down...

...the one time I didn't check my compass on the direction of march from the patrol base, my student did not make the left turn after 100 meters...

...the next morning, off the map, the S3 is doing all the Mosby AAF stuff for me to see or hear where to go...

...SSG Stafenhagen recognized 'Jones Creek Trout Station' and headed off in a deuce and a half to haul that ragged bunch of miscreants back to Camp where I heard about getting lost for weeks from SFC Regan...

...that one time...to pull the "keep talking LT, we'll find you" every time I pass gas, brings me back to that patrol...

...but Pen Cove is beautiful...every time I walked down it, back to the road, I thought about what a great place it'd be to camp...someday...

...and for the Mayans, remember 2012, Kulkucan is coming...they can't all be wrong...

...Joe, being an RN for the Veterans...amazingly good stuff...I figured as SMA you'd be paper shuffling, *harumpfing* at your coffee being tepid, and trying to make some sense in a feather merchant world...

...and here I am thinking you got by on your wits and good looks all this time...an RN...for Vets...Bless You and all y'all who care for us old war ponies...

...better than the NY Times, I say...this Ranger Bob Creation, the Message Log...

RLTW...'nuff said...


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Well, I've just completed my 6th column for Static Line Newspaper, and it's a break from what I had been writing about. It will come out in Dec/Jan time frame if they continue to run the columns sequential. This column is about the different Ranger Associations and Organizations that I belong to which include: 1. US Army Ranger Association (Life Member) 2. 75th Ranger Regiment Association (Life Member) 3. US Mountain Ranger Association 4. Supporter of Ranger Memorial Foundation 5. Rogers Ranger Riders (for Rangers with Motorcycles). My hopes are that it will boost an interest in joining any or all of the one's that I cited, or any of the others that I didn't. Static Line is printed for the Airborne Community of which we Rangers are a part of.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Mark, You're memory is too good! I do seem to remember a case where there were more then a "reasonable" amount of cold weather injuries, and the "arm chair quarter backs" at Ft Benning got involved. When you mention the thermometer hanging inside of the tent on Hawk Mountain is what triggered my memory of that event as well. You may remember that I was the 31 Staff member who always had the eastern sector of the old 31 FTX which included all of the objectives that were on the eastern side of the TVD road. The PI (Kelly) always had the same 31 Staff members in charge of the same areas, because they became "experts" of that area, which facilitated "strokes" on the Patrols, and facilitated rapid ground evacuation for Students/Cadre in the event of injury, and not Helo accessible. We knew every trail, every new logging road, every path, of our assigned sectors. Yea, I remember the "fall out" due to the cold weather injuries on that class. Yes, I also remember you being tossed around like a "rag doll" when the old PLT/PSG/SL Class was being taught in the old classroom. You know, that really was a great class. It used the O.R. as the source document to specifically outline every task of each leader, at each phase of a patrol, and what they needed to do, to get a "Go" on their Patrol. It was a long class. Several hours in duration, but what I remember most about that class, was it was one of the few, "in classroom" classes taught that virtually all Rangers, wrote lengthy notes, stayed awake, and paid attention. They all wanted to pass their patrols was the reason, and they new that if they took detailed notes, and then did the tasks in the same sequence that was covered in the class, and to the standards that was covered, they passed their patrols. The old O.R.s were a great source document for PLTs, PSGs and SLs....and I even passed out copies of them to the PLs and SLs that I had while I was in 3/75 (the first time). They were to the point, and sequential, from beginning to end, for a successful patrol. While I'm still writing way too much for this bulletin board, I have to say, that no, I can't just take some kind of unannounced, unanticipated Emergency Leave. I'm now and RN and I work in the ED primarily as well as the ICU when needed. There aren't enough of us. If you haven't heard, there's a Nursing shortage, and the bill payers to someone just "calling in" are the patients....in my case, Veterans. I work for the VA. It wouldn't be right, and it violates my ethics. Sorry Mark. I have to schedule leave just like everyone else does. The only exceptions are in the event of death of a close family member, just like the military. Are you still in the Yucatan? If so, you may need to stay there. We are now getting our first "snow fall" today. My thermometer is outside of the house, and it's 30 degrees, with a light snow. Looks like another great winter, with snow up to my ass.

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...this one night, Joe, was absolutely the coldest I've ever been...

...a soft drizzling rain coated all the planning bays at CFM with a thin, shiny layer of ice...

...going up to my objective, to recon Horse Gap, the freezing rain continued, dropping iced limbs down in spectacular crashes all around up on Sassafras (3336') and as I'd told my previous cold weather injured student to let me know when his feet got cold, we'd all stop and change socks...he did on the slope going down towards the gap...

...beating the ice off my rucksack, frozen tight, finally I opened to get some socks, icicles growing longer than an inch off the front of my patrol cap...pant legs stiff...

...arriving near the gap, trees falling (by sound, you couldn't see your hand in front of your face), I sent my patrol into the tent to warm up while I got into a staff jeep...

...the temperature of "26 degrees, from where I'm at, Sir" got a silent look from everybody inside...

...the last leg was shortened; I walked them back to Cooper Gap on FS 42 and then down towards Gaddistown on FS 15, where we ended up beside the road with the patrol base under a mountain laurel thicket...

...the next day Sgt Brown, E5, arrived with Mike Ramsey and black coffee for the changeover...I did not tell Mike about my way of changing socks and when the lamb came before the Lion in Winter to complain about his feet being cold, Ramsey told me later that he said, "Ranger!...Everybody's feet're cold!...Get outta my face!"...

...and he did...

...a few more CWI's got awarded after that last day of '31 and the Benning doctors got a bit feather-ruffled...

...the 26 degrees was from a thermometer hanging by a chicken heater, inside the CP, at Hawk...

...THAT was the coldest I've ever been...beating several single digit cold nights on any other patrol...

...Joe, fellow Platoon Leader/Platoon Sergeant Class Instructor...do pass my message along to Luke the Gook, absolutely one of my favorite RI's while I was at CFM...

...and Joe, do you remember when we were being evaluated by this fat civilian from Benning, about our class presentation, when Frank Kelly,the current TAC NCO, a '33 staffer along with Mike Ramsey, Bob Henry and Mike Condrella, had his students rush the stage, grab me off of it and toss me around like a beach ball, while Cpt Kelley, Patrolling OIC, attended too, seeing all the absolute mastery I had for the situation...

...I remember looking at you from a glimpse as I was being spun around and seeing , " LT, you're in one helluva mess now", coming from your eyes as the molestors had their way for another minute or so...before putting me back on stage...

...that was vintage Frank Kelly...bringing a true appreciation of respect for his rater when style about platform instruction was the evening's supposed highlight...

...it'd be a joy to see you and Lucas again, Mike Smith too...come on down anyway and take emergency leave for the notification you need; I'm sure we can approve it...or something similar...

...RLTW...better than anybody else!...


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Those couple of others by the way were Lucas, and Smith.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Yea Mark, I was on 31 Staff back in 79. So was Ted Tilson, Kazmierzak, and a couple of others...I don't recall the particular event that you're citing. I remember many cold nights, but there were so many, that they blend together in my memory. What was more unique about the one you're talking about?

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...in the past I suggested Indian Leg Wrestling at Horse Gap to settle deferring opinions...

...of course, young Sgt Merchant would have to be my stand-in, since I'm back in ole Sisal...

...but that stroke of genius fell on blind toes, it seems...

...I'm thinking Ranger Suchke has put some considerable thought into his "most excellent idea" yet for this hallowed occasion for friendship fellowshiping...

...I think though, maybe anyone we don't know gets charged $20 for eating bear, elk, possum and such...

...if any member recognizes them, and they're not a Ranger...$15...

...spouses or significant whatnot, you know...eat free...if anyone has to be a ghost in the dark, occasionally fed mounds of clear wisdom only true geniuses can fathom, it is your wife, ex-wife, soon-to-be your ex-wife or whatever else would come with you...even your dog...

...and don't get me started on non-Rangers posting on this noble mantruth board...a wife calling Camp back in the days of the Black Brrt better be taking a kid to the hospital...

...and now?...some post...here...

...and we yack so well...(I'd love to see Joe Mattison and Doug Perry on a patrolling staff or walking a platoon size patrol)...but...

...the leaves still fall and the Critters be cooked...

...and all is right with the world because we still stand in the gap...

...the gap mostly in our minds...

...and before any angry retorts come down yucatan way, I like the reading of this message log better than I do the New York Times...

...and please ladies, forgive my ignorance expressed so recklessly...without your keen insights and amazing wisdom, you must all be laughing at these men planning a get together...

...any lady/woman would have had this down to a lock-step science after the second one ever...hands down...but do we ask them?...

...see?...just kidding about the message log being one of the last bastions of ruggedly male wisdom being shared amongst other rugged, wisdomly type males...(beer mugs banging)...*Man Law* *Man Law*...

...and the auction at Open House?!...total genius...excellent time and place for tourists that buy out the PX for anything 'Ranger'...and who'd consume an entire box of the highly coveted yet rarely sold official USMRA collector edition coin...I've given away 8 or 9 myself...

...thank you for allowing this message log to continue unimpeded by persons of interest, non and so forth, Bob...

...one question, off that dead horse...do any staff members of '31, circa winter of '79, care to rehash that coldest patrol I ever walked, turning it over the next day to Mike Ramsey?...

...a freezing drizzled started during the planning phase at Camp, then that night LTC Hawkins calling SFC Larry Kelly up on Hawk for a temperature check...

...THAT's a story to tell!...

RLTW...in each and every way...


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ross, Earl, and Bob....you're making way much sense, and we all know that common sense has nothing to do with the critter cookout. Just come up with a date and a time, and I'll figure out if I want to be there or not, based on when it is, and who can come. "Home boys" shouldn't have any problems, all they need is about 24 hours notice, minimum. I can adjust or not be there...either way. I know that I'm speaking not only for myself, but for all of the other "frustrated" Rangers who don't live within 40 miles of Camp Merrill. Why wasn't all of this figured out at last years Critter Cookout where everyone present could have had a vote on the options? Why is it always the "home boys" who determine when and who? This is my last on this subject....I'll make it if I can, probably won't because I work weekends, and not enough time to get in a request for leave (inside the 6 month window). This damn bear!! How can so many smart people, be so dumb about something thats pretty simple to figure out? Is this any way to fight a war?

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Ah, the Critter Cookout Annual Debate. Remember this is a cookout, not a camping trip. A cookout shouldn't be much different from an eating' meetin' except it lasts longer and people get to stumbling around some. I propose we have it on Open House day, later in the day after most have gone home as Runyon points out. I agree with Bob that tickets for the heathen are a good idea. Every member could get four tickets for family only, but if cousin Sid tags along he busts out five bucks to eat. But I believe wives should be allowed, and a tyke or two--for a while. To eat and then go home. This should be understood by all Rangerettes when they get there. Then we've got all night, we're safe, we have access to beer and bathroom and whatever else, we can build a fire (Command permitting)and be fairly free. Besides, if we have it that day all the far away Rangers can do both events. We have to think of our brothers, even the ones in New York.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I just wanted to get the word out for all who may attend, to start their planning processes. The US Army Ranger Association, Annual Ranger Muster will be at the River Walk, Crown Plaza Hotel in San Antonio, Texas, 9-14 Sept., 2010. You do not need to be member of USARA to attend. All Rangers and former Rangers are invited to attend all Annual Ranger Musters held by the US Army Ranger Association. You can get more information about this event by going on-line to their home page: US Army Ranger Association. The official home page doesn't have details of this event at present, but they will soon, as more of it begins to come together such as the event schedule, and time lines for each day. Just keep checking their home page, for further details, and for a sign up sheet that you download and mail in. It's eleven months from now, and plenty of time to get ready for it, especially all of you "Texas" Rangers.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Earl, I agree. US Army Ranger Association, and 75th Ranger Association have location, dates etc,...worked out 10-12 months in advance. If I make the critter cookout in Aril or May or whenever....2010, I'll be there, and if not, I'm not. I will be at the 25th Anniversary of 3/75 on 11 November. I can't stay for the 12th, but will be there on the 11th, at the 3/75 area, Ft Benning, Ga. I'll never guess how reasonable minds can't seem to come together and agree on a Critter Cookout format that can be easily executed, year after year. Way too much "pulling on the rope", but in the wrong directions.

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Doug, please call me or come by and see me at NGC. I need to talk to you about the last eating meeting. Some problems have to be worked out. As for the Critter Cookout, what ever you Rangers come up with is fine with me. Pending on action by the Association.

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Tom Wilburn.. Its looks like we will have to ask for the loan of one of your tractors.That will be on Fri.the 30th. SFC Weiner said he would drive it across the Mtn.And I will follow him with blinkers. Please let me know if it is OK and the location. On Sat. the 31st we will take it back..Thanks Tom .RLTW..

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Rangers I Think I can truly say without fear of contradiction that the "Critter Cook Out" has caused more problems for the Association than any other one thing. I know for a fact some members have quit coming to the meetings because of the hassle. I am a member of the Vietnamese Ranger Association. We have our reunion every two years and here's how it works. The association President decides when and where, he does all the coordination, hotel, banquet hall etc. He then sends a letter to everyone with the information way in advance. No muss no fuss. I would recommend that after this year that Steve Hawk coordinate with the Camp Commander at least 9 to 10 months in advance as to when and where we can have the cook out and then put out the information. Who what when and where. Of course there will be some who complain, but remember Rangers are use to following orders of their Commander. No more fights at the meetings or on the net. This is just my humble opinion.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: TO ALL 3/75 "ORIGINALS": I was re-reading my previous post and I see where I typed an error. I didn't mean to say 2010. The actual dates for the 25th Anniversary of 3/75 with appropriate ceremonies etc,...is: 11/12 Novemeber 2009. About a month away. For further details, you can contact CPT Bucci, the S-5 of 3/75, and he will also help with hotels etc. You can reach him by phone at one of two places. Work Phone Number: (706) 626-1350, Cell Phone Number: (484) 574-1627, E-Mail: buccic@ahqb.soc.mil He is also the one to contact if you're interested in a .45 cal Commemorative Pistol that I previously mentioned. Sorry for the "typo" in the previous message.

Posted:
Name: MSG Runyon
Message: Bob, All sounds good, the chow getting eaten early seems to be the only draw back and your salution fits. I've been one of those guys that had to show up late for the last few years (life of one of the 1SGs). If you served chow a little later many of the Open House visiters would be gone and many of our drunks wouldn't have to be seen passed out in the day light. We've always started cooking when everyone could find the cook out with there nose. An hour after the Open House demostration most of all the displays get shut down then poeple go home unless they smell the chow or know it's there. If you start cooking after the demostration and tell all the non USMRA folfs the foods not done yet I don't think they would wait around. Only invited guest would wait around for it and the guys closing up the Open House could partake in the event (eat). Why have we been in such a hurry to cook if we intend to spend all night anyway? All the chow gets eaten before 1400 then no body eats anything but a liguid dinner. Food for thought. 18 days out, I'm so short I have to pole vault over a mouse trap!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Bob, you make good points, and the idea of tickets sounds like a good one to me. I'll be honest with you, and every one else, I'm beginning to lose interest. My son lives in Gainesville, and I visit there often. I can go to the Camp anytime I want to. I can sit at the bar in the NCO club and have a few beers with anyone who wants to join me, or anyone who I contact, to let them know that I'll be there on a given date and time. I can bring my wife, and we can have a great time, anytime we want to. I can schedule my own separate get together with old Ranger friends, and not rely on the USMRA to figure it out, get the word out in a timely manner, and solve this problem, once and for all. In fact Bob, for me, who lives about 1000 miles away from Camp Merrill, this sounds like the best solution, instead of waiting and waiting and waiting. Ya'll have a good time. Joe

Posted:
Name: Robert Suchke
Message: Critter Cookout:

This has been an issue for several years now with basically two sides represented: one group would like the original totally separate critter cookout out in the woods at a remote site with a campfire and Rangers only gathering for the eating, telling of war lies and lots of liquid libation. The other group would like critter cookout to be essentially a Ranger family event during Open House near the Ranger Camp or at near the NCO club where logistics are much simpler.

History: Critter cookout was started at Penn Cove back in 1999 if my memory serves me. And by the way, I have been to every one of them since we began this event. The first was a relatively small affair with a GP medium, water buffalo and a couple of tables provided by the Camp. Most participants brought their favorite possum stew, venison chili, rattlesnake soufflé or bear roast to share and enjoy. We had a big campfire and it was a great event. Simple and fun, Critter Cookout was attended by 40 or so fine young and old Rangers that forded two streams and made the 3 mile drive out to Penn Cove. CC was held at Penn Cove twice more and got larger each time with parking, logistics and vehicle traffic becoming issues. We did have a couple of minor vehicle problems that were solved by the appropriate use of winches. Pine Valley at North Georgia College on the Etowah River was next chosen as a CC site. This was held on property owned by North Georgia College, so rules that prohibited open fires restricted that part. Families and a few straphangers attended. I believe we held it at Pine Valley twice (last in 2004) and it was accessible, lots of parking, nice setting by the river (with fishing) and a covered pavilion. Logistics was a small but manageable issue. The next year and in several years since 2005 we have held Critter cookout at or very near Camp Merrill. Once in April we had it at the old landfill on the hill above the church. The weather was mostly miserable with rain, sleet, snow and winds trying to dampen our spirits. We drove on anyway with frequent trips to the club for emergency re-supply of beverages. By now we have pretty much realized that the NCO Club, our traditional meeting place and favorite watering hole is actually as much a part of Critter Cookout as eating critters and seeing fellow Rangers.

The Issues: So for the past three years, the location behind the NCO Club at the Ranger Camp has been ground zero for critter cookout. This past event it was voted to have Critter Cookout as a separate event from Open House and have it as a RANGERS ONLY event. It was of course a success as all Ranger events go, but there remains the question of do we keep it for Rangers Only and separate from Open House or have it during Open House and have our Ranger meeting separately? If not held during Open House, then lots of out of town Rangers don’t get an opportunity to attend Critter Cookout. Another issue of critter cookout is control measures for the available supply of critter food. During past open house weekends, we have had masses of hungry folks line up and help themselves to the free chow that is served up by hardworking Rangers like Steve Bishop, Pete, Doug Perry, Al Parten, and many others. Often, some Rangers who have had other duties arrived to find all the food was gone. So there we have the problems pretty much outlined. There may be others, so come up on the net and let’s hear from you if you have input on this subject. Long ago, one of my mentors told me to never bring up a problem without proposing a solution. OK, here is my suggestion for Critter Cookout:

1. Hold Critter Cookout at or near the NCO Club during Ranger Open House at Camp Frank D. Merrill subject to the 5th RTB Commanders guidance and directives (remember we are on his turf). 2. Have the Rangers Only -MRA meeting at a place (where a campfire is permitted) within walking distance of the NCO club (again with 5th RTB permission). 3. Print special Critter Cookout tickets and issue CC tickets to each MRA member that requests them to feed him and his guests (number to be decided later). 4. Sell CC tickets at $5.00 each to those non-member guests who wish to enjoy our famous cuisine at Critter Cookout with all funds going toward the Mountain Ranger Association to help offset the cost of CC and monies leftover going into the MRA general fund. Note:These tickets could be also used for door prizes if we want to add any incentive. Added note: The recent auction was a modest success and if we want, we could have another auction during the critter cookout/open house weekend as a fundraiser for the MRA.

So there you have it. We have committed to making a decision on this subject at the November meeting, so if you have other suggestions or ideas, present them or live with the decision. RLTW! Robert K. Suchke


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Announcement for 3/75 "Originals:.....3/75 is hosting the 25th Anniversary of 3/75 and is inviting all of it's "originals" to attend. It will be held at Ft Benning on 11/12 November, 2010. They have even arranged for "Originals" to purchase a Commemorative .45 Cal M1911 Auto Handgun complete with 3/75 scroll, personalized pistol grips with optional engraving, and a special serial number for each handgun. If you're interested in attending the 25th Anniversary, or want to purchase a 3/75 Commerative .45 Auto, please contact: 1LT Carmen Bucci, S-5, 3/75. His email is: buccic@ahq.soc.mil

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks Earl, I appreciate the info. It looks like I may miss this one as well. I'm putting in Leave Requests for 2010. I have to put them in 6 months in advance. I wish we could pin this down better, and longer out then we do. Some of us, have to do a little more then 40 miles. For some, it's an airplane ride, and for others, such as myself, it's a long term scheduling issue. I'm locked in to attend the US Army Ranger Association, Annual Ranger Muster in San Antonio, Texas....for 9-14 Sept, as they have posted. Thanks again Earl....that damn bear!! Every year....always that damn bear!!

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Joe the Critter Cook Out when brought up at a meeting, to use an analogy, is like going in a bears den and poking him with a sharp stick. You can bet there is going to be a fight. Right now Doug is coordinating with the powers to be to see when we can have it at the Camp . I'm sure someone will post the information right after the Nov. meeting.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: What's the latest information regarding the Critter Cookout for 2010?

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Al, I have recovered fine,thanks for asking. I believe the total was $439.00. Thank you and your beautiful wife for the equipment donated and the hard work. See you next meeting.

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: How much did money did we end up raising during the Auction ? Hey, Earl, how's your vocal cords doin' ?

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: The US Army Ranger Association will be holding it's Annual Ranger Muster in San Antonio, Texas next year. The 2010 Annual Ranger Muster will be in September. I believe the dates are 9-14 Sept, and the Convention will be held at a hotel on the River Walk. For all you "Texas/New Mexico Rangers" who want to join us, your welcome. Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Rangers, I'd like to forward to each of you a few job openings that were forwarded to me through US Army Ranger Association, email, news..... There are some positions available, on a 1 year contract for Rangers, and former Rangers who may be interested. The Positions are: Communications/Intelligence/Ranger Instructor/Training and Doctrine Specialist. If you're interested, please contact Carl Schumacher, Recruiter. His phone number is: (847) 506-2496 and his email is cschumacher@electronicsearch.com. I don't have any further info about these positions other then they are all supposed to be in Georgia. Take care...Joe Mattison

Posted: 10/5/2009
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Rangers

It's that time of year to begin thinking about our brother Rangers who may need our help.

As you know each year we provide funds to the Mountain Ranger Camp Command for Rangers who need finacial aid during the Christmas season. And in this depressed economy we are currently experencing, the need for our underpaid Rangers is even greater.

If each of us, members of the USMRA, take the cost of one take-out meal and donate that we can make life much better for our Brothers.

There fore I am asking each of you 956 members to send a small donation to the association, marked for Christmas Fund. If we each send $5.00 we can make this Christmas much brighter and relieve at least some of the stress of the season from our brothers.

Use the mailing address at the bottom of the page

Please help with what you can.

Rangers Lead the Way

Steve Hawk, Chairman, USMRA


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Earl, I can well imagine. Thanks for the update, and I'm glad that all had a good time.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Well, the eatin meetin is over and I think every one survived. My voice will never be the same, Doug volunteered me to be the auctioneer and it's hard to yell louder than a bunch of Rangers fired up on stump water...I had one of Al's famous Sloppy Joe's and there must have been one wild Buffalo in there because at 4 o'clock this morning he was still running. Of course it could have been the Rhino Dog or the Hippo Burger I had. I think next time I will just bring an MRE.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ted,....I'm still laughing as I type this. Yea, I remember that and you're right, we made you stay outside of the club. You weren't allowed in because of the skunk smell. Ranger Kittle: Happy Anniversary to you as well. 25 years has gone by too fast. Take care, all and keep that antelope population under control there at Camp Merrill.

Posted:
Name: RGR Kittle
Message: Happy 25th Annaversary 3/75 Ranger Battalion. Reactivated 3 OCT 1984 @ Fort Benning. 25 Years of Hooah! Best regards to all my Ranger Buddies from the Mountain Ranger Camp! RLTW! Kittle Out

Posted:
Name: ted tilson
Message: hey joe, you forgot to mention the skunks at hawk mountain. you threw a frickin boot at one in the middle of the night. problem was that the skunk was under my cot. no one would come near me the remainder of the problem!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I meant to add that we also had one heck of a problem with elephants and giraffes, but we were able to hunt them and I think we pretty much got that population cut down a bit. Good thing too, cause in my day, you didn't want to run very fast without looking down, while loading or unloading from a helicopter on Mosby AAF!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Yeah,...I can see where the hills of North Georgia are overloaded with Antelope and Buffalo. We had the same problem when I was stationed there. Couldn't keep the damn Antelope and Buffalo off from the airfield. Glad you're able to hunt them now.

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Well , I hope all that show up for the Meetin' Greetin bring something to eat. I just spent 3 hrs doing some Venison, antelope, and buffalo sloppy joe. 10 lbs of it. Now it's time for a beer and a glass of wine with Tammy. Wish all you Rangers could attend.For those that can't be here, we will talk about you, in memories, and stories, you cannot defend your selves, so what we say is what happened .

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Yeah, Joe - I was in Hawaii for 4 years. Sold everything I had, left CFM, and moved to Oahu in Nov 87. Returned to the mainland in August 91. I was trying to escape "something" that caught up with me even in Hawaii...where I thought I was safe. Lived in Haliewa (North Shore) for awhile, then moved into Wahiawa - worked at the Cornette's (spelling?) store there. Still have friends over there - should would like to go back for a visit! :-)

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ranger Owens, Sorry...I misunderstood you last post. Now I recognize that you're referencing a previous post. I just had to click the thumbnails back.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Hi Ranger Owens: What article did you read it in? I'm understanding that the articles are published in other articles as well as Static Line. I'm curious as to what article you read the one you're referencing? Your're right of course...it was just another number on someone's board for number counts. I agree, it was a waste of your time, and Army money. They should have sent someone without your background. Sounds stupid to me as well. At least you maintained full pay and allowances, and got another "I've been there badge" out of it. Cookie: I thought it was you with the C....but I wasn't sure, because you mention living at Schofield Barracks, and I didn't know that you had lived there once. I'd like to read more about the Ranger Training in Bolivia....back in the 60s. Does anyone have any info on that? That was an interesting post.

Posted:
Name: Bill Miller
Message: To all RANGERS. Does anyone know RANGER Edmund Fricke? He was on a mission to Bolivia to conduct RANGER Training for Bolivian Army Draftees in the late 60's. Just about the time Che Guevara was captured. The Airborne & Special Operations Museum in Fayetteville is trying to obtain information on him. If anyone can shed some light please contact me at bietdongquan@yahoo.com. Thanks

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Willard

Meeting is this Saturday, It is the eatin Meetin. If you can't be there we understand.

Tell your wife I will miss her.

Steve


Posted:
Name: Willard Langdon
Message: To Steve Hawk: I'll be out of town for the next few days, so won't be at the meeting on Thursday night. Sorry. Hope to see you next month. Willard

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Whooaaaa Joe - I've heard of short-term memory loss....even suffer it myself sometimes, but forgetting who I am from one message to another sounds pretty serious to me! You might wanna check with a doctor if this continues. In fact, why don't you go ahead and print this out so you don't forget what you're supposed to do. ;-P Let us know when you snap outta it - til then, take care 'ol man! ~C (as in Cookie, if that helps) :-)

Posted:
Name: OWENS
Message: Hey Joe, saw your post about Schofield Barracks, I was assigned to CSC, Scout Platoon, 1st Bn 35th INF from Dec 81 - Jun 85. What amazed me right off the start with the 25th INF, was I had not been there 6 weeks and they were telling me "I had to go to Air Assault School" and of course I said what for, I'm already Pathfinder Qualified, been pushing troops out of aircraft as an DZSO and ran Rotary Aircraft Ops while pushing Ranger Students.... Of course the answer was your still not Air Assault Qualified and we're and Air Assault Division.... So I went... Biggest waste of my time in my entire Career.... Tried to teach me how to Rappell, Sling Load, Cross Load Chalks, Talk to Pilots on a Radio,... I could not believe I was being retaught everything I had just been teaching in the Ranger Dept.......Nothing but an extended PT course for several weeks so I could get a Ticket punched for somebody's numbers board..... MSG Anderson from 2nd 75th was the NCOIC while I went through.... That has bothered me till this day why someone would do that....

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Yes, we did. It's referred to as "Sergeant Majors Loop" but it did have a street sign, that I don't remember. By the way, who are you?

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: We left Wahiawa (he was stationed at Schofield) late summer of '91, and went to Ft. Jackson until his retirement in early '93. Did y'all live in housing while at Schofield?

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: At Schofield from early 94-late 96. I don't remember the months. John Edmunds and I arrived at about the same time. We each, had a Light Infantry Bn, in the same Brigade.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Hey guys - I don't know what sort of crowd y'all are expecting at the eatin-meetin, but I'm a vintage/antique jewelry dealer (part-time). I have tons of vintage/antique jewelry - mostly Sterling, but some costume. I have been collecting Army/military charms for a few years now, and I could put together a nice Sterling Charm Bracelet - it would be a "big ticket" item, but would make a fabulous gift for the wife. (Christmas will be here before you know it!)

If y'all think it would make a few bucks, I'd be happy to send some jewelry that way. I'll try to get the bracelet ready to mail tomorrow, but it may be Thursday before I could get it in the mail. And I'll only send the bracelet if y'all think somebody would be interested in a "big ticket" item.

If y'all think there'd be any interest in vintage jewelry, somebody shoot me a street address and I'll get a package off tomorrow. Our postal service seems to be back on track since the floods, so a package should make it there in time.

I wish I could be there to see some old friends and meet some new ones, but I won't be able to make it - I'm closing on my new home this morning and will be moving over the weekend.

Y'all have fun! ~Cookie

PS - Joe Mattison...when were you stationed at Schofield?


Posted:
Name: tom wilburn
Message:

Doug, I have a brand new Kubota 5500 4WD that you are welcome to use. I have a smaller (maybe too small) John Deere 950. Both are in Suches and would need to be hauled or driven. If they are needed for CFM activities the Kubota or Deere could be driven on TVD and Cooper Gap road if someone is willing to drive them. I am away until mid October. Take care, Tom


Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...if 3 gorrilas and shrek would go to Alpharetta and pick it up, I've got a really good woodburning stove I'd like to donate for this next gathering of the gods, october 3...

...it's heavy...took five mexicans to get it inside my son's townhome...maybe one good pickup truck driver could find some local help and that'd be it...

...as the sun's setting with purple and pink and golden clouds, here in Sisal, Yucatan, I figure I'll be back in my truck again when I return to those hills overwatching Camp Merrill, and some good souls could stand a bit of warmth...

...RLTW...always have/always will...


Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Rangers. I talked to GYSGT Sealey today and he will be there on Sat. for the eating meeting. He has something to put out for raffles etc.Al Partin talk to me.They are picking another class Sat. but we hope Ltc. Stone and CSM Phfrogner can make the meeting.Steve buy the hot dogs and whatever you can at DECCA. we need to support it as much as we can.but if you can get it free at Wally World go for it. Bob Suchke do you have somebody to auction Earl Singletree or maybe Randy Pruitt would be ok.Maybe you can do it.Don;t bring any wood..RLTW.......

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Bob Williams, As far as I know we will eat and meet starting around 1700 or 1800 hrs.Rangers remember we are having an auction to raise monies for the USMRA.Sfc.Waters will have a bartender there at 1100 hrs.Bring something to eat and something to sell. GOOD TIME TO GET RID OF SOME OF THAT OLD MILITARY JUNK.Steve Hawk. answer your D*** phone.We will deliver the stuff for black cat night on 10 Oct.at 1100-1200 hrs to Porter Village to the FRG. It has all been laid on with Sfc Banks and Cpt,Terry.They are looking for a tractor for the hayride ????.We will have a grill so if you want to bring a steak for yourself and me feel free to do it.RLTW.....

Posted:
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Brethren,
What time is the meeting this Saturday, Oct 3?

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: You mention in the Cobra story that the Rotor Weight ended up by the Monument Rock near the Bn HQ Building. Does that mean there was an explosion with fire? You may remember the old "parachute rigging area" which used to be gravel and a steel cables that the students lined there gear up on, before rigging for Airborne Ops. I think I heard once that a large chunk of one of the helo engines or transmissions ended up landing there as well. You know, Camp Merrill has a lot of aircraft crash stories over the many years of it's existance. All of them seem to end up in the recesses of the memories, and not right up front in our minds. I guess that it has to do with the fact that none of them were actually assigned to Camp Merrill, but all were there for training themselves in a mountainous environment, for those aviation units that are stationed in the south east (and a lack of mountains where they are at). Thanks for the update to the story. I had also heard that they were from the 82nd, many years ago, when I first heard the story. Joe

Posted:
Name: Ray Schuetze
Message: Yes,two cobras from the 82nd (one overflew the other from the rear) whilst the first was beginning to refuel on the South end of Moseby. Maybe 1973? We were on cycle break and doing some committee training (informal). No Ranger students in bleachers. The injured were given 1st aid and taken to local hospital via pov (pickup trucks) by MRC folks.. all recovered from their injuries. The rotor weight of one 'copter landed very near the Rock outside Hqs bldg. It was a real credit to Ranger training and quick-thinking initiative! RLTW!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thats ok Earl. I sometimes type with my toes and forget to take off my socks.

Posted:
Name: Earl A Singletary
Message: Sorry about the double post and mistakes. It must be the stump water kicking in.

Posted:
Name: Earl A Singletary
Message: Good morning my brother Rangers.Today is Sept.17, the first day of the rest of your life.I pray that God will keep you safe and prosperous...VFW Post 5533 will have its monthly meeting this evening at 1900 hrs. Location. Across from the Post Office at United Community Bank on Morrison Moore Parkway. If you served in any war or Korea you are welcome. The coffee pot will be on and for you Pepsi generation Rangers there will be some lickies and chewies. For you geriatric Rangers you can take a pull or two of your stump water before you come, none will be there. For those of you who don't know the VFW was very instrumental in getting the Post 9-11 GI Bill past. They are our watch dog at the funny farm in Washington DC. They do a tough job of looking out for us Veterans. I hope to see you local Vets at the meeting. If we don't take care of each other know one will take care of us. RLTW

Posted:
Name: Earl A Singletary
Message: Good morning my brother Rangers.Today is Sept.17, the first day of the rest of your life.I pray that God will keep you safe and prospers...VFW Post 5533 will have its monthly meeting this evening at 1900 hrs. Location. Across from the Post Office at United Community Bank on Morrison Moore Parkway. If you served in any war or Korea you are welcome. The coffee pot will be on and for you Pepsi generation Rangers there will be some lickies and chewies. For you geriatric Rangers you can take a pull or two of your stump water before you come, none will be there. For those of you who don't know the VFW was very instrumental in getting the Post 9-11 GI Bill past. They are our watch dog at the funny farm in Washington DC. They do a tough job of looking out for us Veterans. I hope to see you local Vets at the meeting. If we don't take care of each other know one will take care of us. RLTW

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: didn't we throw Donny in the brook last year?

Posted:
Name: Sasquatch Smitty
Message: It sounds like it is time for a good old fashioned donnybrook!! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donnybrook

Posted:
Name: Al P.
Message: Well get over it, not like it happened yesterday. I'm talking about eating , beers and good times.

Posted:
Name: ~;
Message: I think their still choked up over the Cobra Helicopter Story, must be a lump in their throat.

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Is anyone showing up early at the Club to cook something besides burgers and dogs for the eatin-meetin ? Doug, Pee-wee , hello out there, kinda quiet around here.

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: God bless us all on this infamous day.

The Cobra story is looked at a couple of ways in Mountain Ranger. Earl's version is the best.


Posted:
Name: Owens
Message: ***** NEVER FORGET- - WHAT THEY DID - - WITHOUT FEAR OR RESERVATION - - OUR FIRST RESPONDERS RUSHED IN - - WHILE EVERYONE ELSE RUSHED OUT - - WE LOST SO MANY - -BUT ONCE AGAIN "WE" AS A COUNTRY - - "UNITED AS ONE" ***** NOW OUR SERVICE MEMBERS STAND AS ONE, IN HARMS WAY AND CONTINUE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE ***** GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS, EACH AND EVERY ONE OF THEM... JIM

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: The Cobra Story can best be told by Earl, and Doug. It's an old Camp Story that's been told and re-told for many years, and it has some different twists, each and every time I hear it. Like I said, I think the best person to tell that story would be either Earl or Doug. I think the story was posted once on this bulletin board some time back, and if memory serves me correctly, it was about two Cobras trying to get into one re-fuel site on the south end of Mosby near the tower somewhere. It's a story that comes from the early to mid 70s time frame.

Posted:
Name: ~;
Message: Someone just told me a Story about Two Cobra Helicopters that landed in front of bleechers filled with RGR Students at Mosby Airfield,... And suddenly the Two Cobras ate each other, .... Right in front of the students.... Damn....

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: A couple more "tidbits" of Ranger History. General Stan McChrystal, Commander of ISAF Forces in Afghanistan was at one time, the Company Commander of A co., 3rd Ranger Battalion, in 1986. He eventually went on to Command 2nd Ranger Battalion, and the 75th Ranger Regiment. Another very successful Ranger/General Officer is LTG Benjamin Mixon. LTG Mixon was the "original" Company Commander of C Co., 3rd Ranger Battalion, in 1984. He later went on to Command 3/325th Airborne Combat Team (ABCT), Vicenza, Italy in 1993. LTG Mixon is now the Commander of US Army Forces Pacific Command (USARPAC). LTG Mixon is an ROTC graduate of North Georgia College.

Posted:
Name: Mary Hamilton
Message: Myself and several of Sgt. Treves Garletts former army buddies are trying to locate him after losing contact. If anyone has any way of reaching him please forward my information on to him or give me an email, phone number, or address to contact him. Thank you. Mary

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Just a small "tidbit" of Ranger history. LTG Eikenberry (R) is now the US Ambassador to Afghanistan. He was (back in 1975) the Platoon Leader of 2nd Platoon, B Co., 1st Ranger Battalion.

Posted:
Name: Todd Landen
Message: I was recently a 1SG in 2/87 at Ft Drum. I'm now at Walter Reed for some personal medical festivities. I just checked in on SGM Corcoran. He's a little medicated but very optomistic. He moved his left leg while I was there. Very good news as he hasnt had surgery for his shattered back yet. I'll be in the AO for at least the next two weeks. If anyone would like a sitrep on Pat or would like me to relay a message feel free to shoot me the details on ako and I'll get it to him. todd.landen@us.army.mil

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Some of you old timers,3.2% might remember Udo Tarring. I saw him at the MRC today. He was with his family and is staying a few days in one of the cabins at CFM.The Country Cottage to be exact.Udo was in both Mtn. and Patrolling while at the MRC.He was also in FRC too. Good to see some of the old timers again. RLTW.

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Tammy and I are bringing Venison sloppy Joe, be advised this is also a BYOB event.

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Rangers The October USMRA Meeting will be held on Saturday October 3rd 2009 at the NCO Club. This will be our annual Eatin Meetin. Bring a covered dish, USMRA will provide hamburgers and Hotdogs. Bring your spouse, girlfriend, significant other. Food served at 1700 hrs, meeting at 1900 hrs. We will also have an auction so your entrance fee is one Item to be Auctioned off at the end of the meeting. This will be an open auction. All proceeds to the USMRA.

See you then

Steve


Posted:
Name: Terry Baumann
Message: I just heard about Pat Corcoran, I hope everything is going better for him. I've known Pat personally for over 15 years, served with him twice. I can't wait for all this crap to end, just another reminder of how precious our lives are and how important friends and families are. Rangers throughout the world are pulling for Pat and others like him. We all have felt the sadness and heartache since 2001. Pat, take care and you have the prayers of so many friends and family calling out to God for deliverance and protection. Out community is tight and we take care of our own! Derek, you and Rob and the boys stay safe until we all get back to north georgia. terry

Posted:
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Doug, middle school and JV football happens on Thursday nights. Won't see you all until probably December meeting. What's a dad to do?

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Ross. We missed you and several others at the USMRA tonight.I need to see you for something for Pat Corcoran.RLTW.

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Rangers, we have lost two more from the ranks. PFC Eric Hario and SSG Jason Dahlke were KIA Aug 29 in Afghanistan. Both were from A/1/75. Sadness.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Joe,Runyon, Thanks for the info.I will be doing a lot of research in the future...Runyon you keep your head down I hear things are pretty tough over their.RLTW

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Hi Earl, You can also go to the Veterans Administration Home Page....type in VA, and search around on that site. You'll find a lot of benefits and instructions on how to file for those benefits. The new GI Bill is now in effect, and information updates are available about that program as well. You can also down load a full booklet in Veterans Benefits, where to go, and how to apply.

Posted:
Name: Runyon
Message: Mr. Singletary, I am glad that this will get out and may help someone. I'll surely post any info that I come across. I've been researching my retirement and had some retired friends here in Afghanistan pass along good stuff such as this to me. Hope it helps someone. Thanks for your help in passing the info.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: MSG Runyon, thanks for the information.I write an article for the Veterans Corner in the Dahlonega Nugget each week. I always try to include information about veterans benefits. There are a lot of resources available for veterans, unfortunately many of them don't know or understand what is available. The information you posted will be in next weeks nugget. If you or anyone else has information that would be helpful to veterans Email it to me or post it here on the web. Again thanks for the info. RLTW

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I'm fine guys, and thanks for the emails. I've been in Georgia for the past 3 1/2 weeks due to the death of my Mother In Law. All is well and thanks for checking up on me. Congrats to the Hall of Fame nominees and my regards to the loss of friends. Ross and Doug....Thanks. Joe

Posted:
Name: Runyon
Message: I was given this today from a reliable source. Worth checking out for the future. Not that anyone on this site would ever need it. A LITTLE KNOW VETERAN BENEFIT YOU SHOULD PRINT OUT AND FILE VETERANS NEWS & INFORMATION "Aid and Attendance" Regardless of your personal status, consider passing this along to all veterans, families of veterans or individuals with veterans in their family. "Aid and Attendance" is an underutilized special monthly pension benefit offered by the Veterans Administration for veterans and surviving spouses who require in-home care or live in nursing homes. To qualify, a veteran (includes the surviving spouse) must have served at least 90 days of active military service, one day of which is during a period of war, and must be discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. The veteran's benefit is $18,234 annually (paid monthly) and increases to $21,615 if a veteran has one dependent. The surviving spouse alone is $11,715 annually. For more information, call 1-800-827-1000 Visit http://www.va.gov (type "Aid and Attendance" in the search block), or contact your local VA office. Apply on-line at http://vabenfits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/main.asp MSG Runyon

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Becky, I will send a book to you today. There will be no charge. My best to Pat. I think of him every day.

Posted:
Name: Becky Corcoran
Message: Ross, I need to get a signed copy of your new book for Pat. He has asked me to get him one. I have all your contact information at my house, but not here. Please let me know how much and where to send the check. My address here is Becky Corcoran 6900 Georgia Ave. NW Bldg 20 Room 436 Washington DC 20307-5001

Posted:
Name: Bob Williams
Message: I have added two links to our wounded Ranger Buddies on the right side of the home page. If you know of any others, send them to me or post the web address here.

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Pat Corcoran has made it back to the States. He's in Walter Reed with Becky at his side.

Posted:
Name: Anthony Brooks
Message: Cpl Ryan McGhee Bravo Co 3/75 Ranger Regiment From Fredricksburg Va, was K.I.A. August 13, 2009 in Balad, Iraq. Ryan leaves behind a fiance', brother and siter, along with his Mother and Father. Cpl McGhee was on his 4th tour, and enlisted in 2006.

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Anthony Brooks. Can you post some more on Ranger McGhee.Hometown,Family etc.Thanks. RLTW.

Posted:
Name: Anthony Brooks
Message: The World lost another GREAT ARMY RANGER. Army CPL RYAN McGHEE from Bravo CO 3/75...KIA August 13, 2009.

Posted: 8/18/2009
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Becky I echo everyone's feelings , and want you to know that we are here for you too. If we can help or you need anything we will try to get it for you. We fell helpless out here and only want the best for Pat and you.

Steve


Posted: 8/18/2009
Name: Becky Corcoran
Message: I have set up a website dedicated to Pat's journey. Will try to update daily. You can also send him a message. When he is up to it, I will let him see it and read it. I know there will been a time in the future where he will really going to see how much everyone thinks of him. The outpouring has been overwhelming with support and want to give everyone the chance to follow his journey.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/patrickcorcoran

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Becky Corcoran. I am sure I speak for everyone in the USMRA,If you need any thing with-in our association please ask and we will attempt to help you.Tell Pat we are pulling for him and waiting his presence at the next Critter Cook-Out.God Bless and RLTW..

Posted: 8/16/2009
Name: Hugh Harmon
Message: Becky, same from here, if ya'll need anything let me know. Tell Pat we are all behind him.

Posted:
Name: Becky Corcoran
Message: Spoke to Pat finally. He knows I am enroute. He said he is getting GOOD DRUGS and he has major JET LAG. He is a true Ranger through and through. He has a long, long road ahead of him, but he survived and that is the most important thing right now. Thank you all. RLTW!!!

Posted:
Name: DURKAN
Message: Becky, please let Amanda or I know if there is anything you need or anything we can do. I am still in Afghanistan, but can coordiante from here. Amanda is still in Dahlonega, and I have family near Walter Reed. I know you have a lot on your mind, especially with the children and having to deal with this and making your way to Pat ... but we are all here! Just let us know! Take care, God's speed, and God Bless! Duke

Posted:
Name: Becky Corcoran
Message: Pat is not currently stable enough to travel to WRAMC. He will be undergoing surgeries on Monday. Thank all of you Rangers for your thoughts. I will be traveling to Germany today. Will keep you posted. RLTW!!!

Posted:
Name: DURKAN
Message: Pat and Becky! Prayers and wishes are with you, family, and closest friends! God bless! Duke

Posted:
Name: Runyon
Message: Just heard this morning from Lori. Pat, we're all pulling for you.

Posted:
Name: Hugh Harmon
Message: My thoughts and prayers go out to PC and Becky. Hello to all my Ranger Buddies from Alaska. Kenny Loggins and I are holding down the fort here.

Posted:
Name: BILL MANNING
Message: Hey,Joe Mattison,i talked to Herbie Baugh the other day and he said to tell you hello.

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: My prayers for go to Pat and Rebecca!!! God be with you!

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: We're thinking about you Pat. Hang in there, buddy.

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Rangers,I have just received an e-mail from Becky Corcoran, wife of CSM Pat Corcoran. Pat was wounded yesterday in Afgan. He will be flown to Germany today and then to WRAMC.He is stable but in critical condition.She will be enroute to be with him as soon as she gets clearance.Pat was one of the first seargents at the camp.I Think C. company then HHC.Let us remember Pat and his family when we get a knee.RLTW..

Posted:
Name: M Bundy
Message: Congrats to LTC (R) Antonia. My best to Angela and the team.

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...once again I'm asking for some solar panel expertise to meet a need I've got...running my CPAP from a battery, recharged by a solar panel...

...for those yet to enjoy the benefits of a CPAP...(Considerably Polite And Proper)...one's sleep apnea is overcome...

...there has been Iowa Thin Film, a solar technology company, that developed a tent material that would be perfect for the entire houseboat-to-be-built-soon...

...or any sources currently in use...this ain't a huge amount of juice needed...

...please let me know of any reliable, effective sources...

...seeing's as how I don't have any "war" stories, I thought this may be something already considered in sharing moments with Joe and his new editing leadership...simply said, I'm sure all of us have memories about our student days and I'm asking about what "forum" would be suited for those tales...

...Good thoughts, wishes and prayers for all you and your's...

...RLTW...Mark


Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: LTC Antonia definitely deserved his spot in RHOF. He was always good to me when I was prowling 5th RTB and doing research. A good man. Solid. Congratulations, Sir.

Pat Corcoran, have you seen Luca Bertozzo's new bride? He sent me a wedding photo. Never saw him until now. Nobody ever looks like you think they'll look just from talking to them. Hey, if you want a book just ask.


Posted:
Name: RGR Corcoran
Message: Congrats to LTC Antonia on your induction in the RHOF, What a great honor. Derek, I have been trying to arrange a link up at your place, but I been gettin a workout here lately. Great to hear from Terry B. on here and Boston. Glad to see all the Mtn Rangers reunited up there with you Runyon. Not quite a critter cookout, but sure makes you look forward to it. Ross, great book, can't wait to see your new one. Doug, take it easy on them critters this fall. RLTW PC

Posted:
Name: 1SG (R) D. Lopez
Message: Congratulations LTC (R) Antonia for your induction into the Ranger Hall of Fame, Thanks goes out to you and your family for your dedicated service to Our Country and the Rangers. Glad to see postings that Mountain RIs are still doing good things. We'll be visiting Fort Drum and West Point, NY in September 2009, if anybody is out there, let me know, we can catch up and have a beer. God Bless you all. RLTW

Posted:
Name: Al Martin
Message: LTC (R) Antonia Congratulations on your Induction to the Ranger Hall of Fame. Thanks for your hard work and dedication to all Rangers near and far. Seems like just yesterday our kids were playing little league baseball. Man the time flies. Great seeing you and all Rangers at the 09 Critter Cook Out.

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Rangers. Just got back from Ft Benning where I watched a great Ranger and Leader inducted into the RHOF,Keith Antonia was inducted in true form, his remarks was great.His Family was there as was a great many of the USMRA. Ltc Antonia always supported the USMRA 100% and then some.I also saw CSM Bellich Whom I had not seen since he left 5th RTB.Also CSM Legg.We had a great BBQ out at Hog Brown's where I am sure the war stories and fairy tales went on way into the night.Good to see Tom Wilburn again.Hope every body can make the meeting tonight.RLTW.

Posted: 8/6/2009
Name: Bob Williams
Message: LTC(R) Antonia,
Congratulations on your induction. I just talked to a dad who expressed his great appreciation toward you for assisting his son in getting involved in the NGCSU ROTC program. Just another example of your great work.

Posted:
Name: Jerry Massey
Message: LTC ( R ) ANTONIA,

I know all of us that have worked with you benefitted from that experience. Congradulations and thanks for being the outstanding leader that you are!!

Rangers Lead The Way!!


Posted:
Name: MSG Runyon
Message: Congratulation LTC(R) Antonia, You’re a great leader and you always set the example for 5th RTB. "RLTW" from AFG.

Posted:
Name: Tom Wilburn
Message:

LTC(RET)Keith Antonia was inducted into the Ranger Hall of fame today at Fort Benning. Always the professional and humble Soldier, Keith recognized many Rangers who had a part in his achievments and provided a special thanks to the Mountain Ranger Association. Please take the time to congratulate Keith for his service and accomplishments over his career (including Commander of 5th RTB)and his continued service to our next generation of Soldiers at NGCSU.


Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Is there a meeting Thursday night ?

Posted:
Name: Runyon
Message: SGM B, Tell Old Man Boston Hi for me. Good egg. If you see him, give him my e-mail. Take care Ranger Buddy.

Posted:
Name: Terry Baumann
Message: Just a note to let some of you know I ran into Ranger Bosten who was an RI in B CO. He's currently visiting our unit in Iraq and is going back to Kuwait where he works with MPRI. Once again RI's are all over the world doing amazing stuff. take care, Terry

Posted:
Name: Runyon
Message: DOUG, No site of Austin. But I have coordinated and completed a link-up with SGM Durkan, Mark Keith, Smitty, Massey and Olsen. Things are good on this end you take care and have a cold one ready for me in November..

Posted:
Name: Jerry Roberts
Message: I had just graduated from Weapon School at JFK and was assigned briefly to the 7th group awaiting orders for the 5th group, which never came about because I was diverted to the 173rd and then on to C/75th Rangers. They told us in school that they landed on the moom but I need to train on disassembly of the 45 cal. pistol more than I needed to watch that event.

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Hey, you Rangers over on the far side of the moon.Runyon, Massey, Pat Smith,Olsen,Al Martin,Drew Herbert, or anybody else Keep yer Top Knots down, and let us know if anyone has seen Stoeffel.RLTW..

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Anyone know where Austin Stoeffel is these days?

Posted:
Name: Bill Breen
Message: Anyone see the article on AOL about retiring Col. Henry A Moak Jr.? At his retirement party, he opened and ate a 36 year old C Rat pound cake that he saved from his tour in Nam. I remember mixing cocoa to make a frosting on those cakes, pretty good chow for a hungry troop. RLTW

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Doug and I were at the NCO Club one night many years ago. The beer was cold and it was flowing. One thing led to another and Doug began to telling stories of his time in Viet Nam. He didn't talk about near misses or fire fights or anything like that. It seems that the only thing Doug remembers is his R&Rs in Saigon. Well, let me tell you,...his stories even made this Ranger "blush".

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: Doug Perry? The guy who spent eight years in the field without an R&R? Not believe anything Doug Perry says? I can't imagine.

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Doug, I believe every word that comes out of your pie hole. RLTW Al P.

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: CSM. Legg is supposed to be taking over the 4th RTB.soon and when CSM. John Burns retires he is slotted to take his place. At least that is what the hear is.Did anybody believe that we saw the lander and dust,if you did well I caught a Wompas cat on the TVD. RLTW...

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Has anyone got info on Ranger Training Brigade CSM change? I heard that our old friend, Glenn Legg was headed back to south Georgia for that job.

Steve


Posted:
Name: Bud Huber
Message: Ranger Buddies, you all are impressive! I am alot younger than some of you guys..(most lol) all I know from 69 is the Mets won the series!! I was 9 years old.. Hope this finds everyone doing well!

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: I remember,Myself,T Boggs,Roger Macdonald,Nuck and Ron Brinker was sitting out in the desert on Hwy 10 just outside El Paso Tx.behind the motel we were staying at . we were cooking hot dogs and drinking beer, alot of beer.We saw the lander go down to the moon saw the dust cloud it kicked up just before landing.RLTW>

Posted:
Name: Sasquatch Smitty
Message: I remember where I was. I was feeding my dog. I miss that dog. My mom said the moon was made of cheese.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Jan has offered several times to put me on the moon in those many years, but yes, I first met Jan in Junior High School, in Anchorage, Alaska. 1967. We were both on the Ski Team. To the others who were already serving, in and out of Viet Nam....my regards, and my thanks. I have just written my first story for static line, and it's about Doug Perry and his 1 week in county R&R to Saigon. I did elaborate where I found it to be the most interesting. Joe

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: OMG Joe - you're saying that poor Jan has put up with you for 40 years?? That's almost as remarkable as the first man on the moon! ;-)

Posted:
Name: Brian Cunningham
Message: Al, I watched most of it on TV from a bar in a Ft Benning BOQ. I reported to Harmony Church the following morning to begin Ranger School, Class 2-70, along with Bob Wages. Oh, BTW, JD Kirby was the Tac Officer of that class.

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Al, I was 19 and on a sailboat some where in the Caribbean. Didn't know about it until we went ashore in Jamaica a couple days later.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I was in Alaska. I was a 15 year old, and I was skiing on Mount Alyeska which is south of Anchorage about 40 miles. My father was in the USAF and stationed at Elmendorf. The beautiful blue eyed girl that I was skiing with, is still with me today. While you guys were watching the moon landing, I was watching this really cute little girl in a really tight ski suit. I later caught it on the news, and yep, it was in black and white.

Posted:
Name: Mike Flack
Message: July 20, 1969, I was in the BOQ at Ft. Benning. The CG had declared a training holiday so everyone could watch the live moon landing live on TV. All the dayrooms were full of people, but I had a little black and white 17" TV that my grandmother had given me so a crowd gathered in my room. It was absolutely amazing to watch a man actually walk on the moon.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Al, I was on a remote out post with a Vietnamese Ranger Co. Near the Cambodian border. The Rangers kept coming up to me and pointing at the moon and jabbering. I couldn't figure out what the hell they were talking about. There was a big bright moon that night. I had been out for a while and didn't know what was going on in the world. I found out later and felt like a real dumb ass.

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: Al, I didn't know we were the same age...You don't look as 'young' as me, LOL...hope you and Tammi are well. I watched it at home with the family. Then again at school forever and ever and ever.

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Okay Rangers here's a good conversation starter. Where were you today, July 20 1969, when we landed on the Moon ? I was 12 and was watching live coverage with Walter Cronkite on a little black and white T.V. About 20 friends and Family gathered and stayed up until Neil A. first stepped on the Moon and we watched the entire thing live. Al P.

Posted:
Name: Mark Wilton
Message: I am trying to locate Clark "Hank" Henry. If anyone knows his where abouts or is in contact with him please pass on my contact info. He is still in the Dahlonega area and last I heard he was at North Georgia College. Sua Sponte Mark Wilton rgrmbwblaise@yahoo.com

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Dear Santa, really wish I could turn loose for a couple of moons and come down there to help you build your casa barca. I've got an idea how to put sails on a houseboat, maybe a small keel to keep it from going sideways so much, darn things are like trying to sail a mailbox downriver. All over the place. But to harness the wind using small sails on either side of the boat...

In my youth I sailed all over the Gulf and the Carribean, but in later years I took to houseboats as the natural extension of life on land. Still, I could never figure out how to do a garden boat or a horse shoe boat.

Enjoy, my friend. Drink the women, watch the wine and don't let that Santa crap go to your head uh, belly uh...


Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...Kaz and I tac´d Class 6-80 together...Al Parten still remembers the first day when Kaz and I felt particularly fatherly for the new students and tried, as best we could, to warm up the warm pit for them...much like one does when entering the swamps of Florida for that moment of warmth all over...

...He was on RM1R31N...with Larry Kelley and others...the patrol I had hoped to join after TACing...but LTC Blount wanted an S-1 that could write, and reading my after action reports, I got selected...what a disappointment...after TACing 6-80 with such fine results, immediately the wind is taken from the sails and S1 is what I did...oh, please, let me recontain my enthusiasm...

...Kaz was a fine trooper...along with so many more...my last walk with Bill Manning was memorable, as well as all the others in between...even back to being a student in the Mountains with 10-75, Cpt Shehorn, TAC, and passing both patrols, MSG Fox and Cpt Maynard, among the streams and mountain laurel of the night...

...about to be me and build a casa barca on el mar...houseboat out on the gulf of mexico...not much of a cost and using solar and wind as much as practical to develop batteries for power...what a fine mess I enjoy getting into...

...if anyone knows about the Iowa company that has developed solar panels within tent fabric, for the Army, I´d really like to get a contact number for some surplus material to use as shade and power for my houseboat to be...

...(the recon is going well...most think of me as "Santa Claus"...in Sisal, Hunucma and Merida, Yucatan)...I´m hoping to start teaching the Mayans English, so they can better deal with tourists...most of the young street hawkers get one year of school and are out selling seven days a week from age 10 on...

...many good thoughts and hopes for all Rangers everywhere...if the hammock that is being made for me in Merida, with a huge Ranger Tab comprising most of it, maybe I can send it up to be raffled like the shotgun was in the NCO Club...and the proceeds going to having a Ranger Tab flower arrangement for any funeral that we know of...something to gain some funds for something very appreciated...

...to all the Leaders of the Way, my sincere appreciation for being a RANGER!!!...

...adios amigos...Marko Edwardo Jordan...Sisal, Yucatan...(no post office, no address...just ask for Santa...no problem)...


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I saw Kaz's photo in the Army Times as well. He was interviewed about the Ft Meade Commissary. Kaz was a Staff Member of the old 31 Staff with me, Larry Kelly, Ted Tilson, Tom Smith (Puddin Head) and Luke the Gook. This was around Sep 79-Late 80, maybe early 81. He then transferred, but I don't remember where. He was a good man, and a good RI. I didn't realize he had retired in the Maryland area.

Posted:
Name: "O"
Message: GAH--- Not sure if they are one in the same,... I know he was an RI at MRC around 1978 maybe 1980 time frame, he also was Tac NCO of a Ranger Class with LT Jordan,... Do not recall the Ranger Class number or date, ....Mark Jordan maybe able to help with the Class Date and time frame,.. SFC (RET) KAZ- picture is in the current Navy Times issue. "O"

Posted:
Name: George Horkan
Message: "O"! Is that the same SFC (RET) KACZMARCZYK that was a medic in C Co. 1/75th in '74 - '76? Later went tp SF? gah

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I'd be glad to Ross. There is a small handling fee of course, and I know that you wouldn't want it any other way. If fact, I'm going to set up a Pay Pal account. Just kidding of course....I'll be glad to send stories on. Bill made his offer to me yesterday, and I expect to see something in the email soon. I'll give you a forward copy. To all others, still looking for more Viet Nam stories. Where are you at Steve Bishop and Ted Tilson, as well as the many others that I served with at Camp Merrill during the 70s and early 80s. I think all of you were Viet Nam Vets. It doesn't need to be a Ranger Unit, but it does need to be about a Ranger, in Viet Nam. The only one that I have is about Doug Perry and his R and R.

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Joe, you're doing great generating stories. If you should run up on a good one, one that could be a war story, please send it on to me for Ranger War Stories. You can still publish a cut-down version in Static Line, but I can lay the whole story out in a book. Maybe Bill Miller will read this and send me a war story on his own, or anybody else for that matter. The idea is to preserve the history, however we get it done.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I want to thank Bill Miller for some Viet Nam Ranger stories about the BDQ. Any other Viet Nam Rangers have a story to publish in Static Line?

Posted:
Name: "O"
Message: Lost Ranger spoted: I just read an article on shopping at the Commissary in the Navy Times and low and behold there was a picture of SFC (RET) KACZMARCZYK, being interviewed on why he shops at the FT. Meade, MD Commissary and how much money he saves. In the photo looks like he's still wearing a Ranger haircut. Just goes to show how someone can pop up on radar at anytime. "O"

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Sounds fabulous, Mark - thanks so much for sharing that with us! I had considered Belize at one point, probably 10 years ago, but then the crime rate started to increase and I backed off the idea. Sisal sounds quite lovely - if it's anything like Cancun without the tourists, I'm sure it is beautiful.

Speaking of the Mayans - I visited Chichen Itza during my stay in Cancun - what a wonderous place. I wasn't too thrilled about their gruesome ceremonies, but the ballfield was (is) a work of art...and sound - amazing! The temple, too, is something to behold (and the sounds coming off of it - again amazing!), but I could not force myself to climb the treacherous steps - or really, the way down was the most frightening for me. I think the year I was there was the last year that anyone would be allowed to climb the temple. As I stood there looking at that temple and watching people climb it - one girl in a miniskirt and heels (my God, what was she thinking??)(and the men thinking - thank God for miniskirts! LOL), I realized just how different a foreign country can be. Nothing like that would have been allowed here in the US, where our government knows what is best for us.

It sounds like you are adapting quite well to a change in lifestyle - and enjoying it too - good for you! Let me know when you get that cabana built - I'd be more than happy to rent it from you for a week or two! :-)

Peace and happiness, ~Cookie


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Mark, what the heck are you doing in the Yucatan?

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks to those who have given me a story to write about. I'm going to put them together in a chronological sequence. I'm looking for more stories from: Viet Nam, Grenada, Panama, Persian Gulf War 91, Somalia, current Afghanistan and Iraq. Again, thank you Rangers for the help. You can send stories to: jjmattison@verizon.net and again, thanks. Joe

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message:

...moi? expat??...I was just sorta getting used to the idea of being "recognized" by Joe Mattison as "Mark"...hahaha...

...being in Sisal, Yucatan, Mexico is as peaceful and tranquil as Mayberry was in the 50´s...always...every day...every night...every moment...a cooling breeze blows off the Gulf of Mexico, warm as bath water, during the day and the land breeze comes at night...the food is as fresh as seafood can get and there´s no crime, in the least...

...maybe time to have a Ranger get together just to see if there´s a pulse to this patient...

...my pension goes further...very much further, especially when they don´t charge me gringo prices...and it´s obvious I´m not a local...being a foot taller and having a long white beard...so as each day comes and goes, I relax even more to having Sisal as a home for a long time...eventually to actually just build a cabana out into the Gulf about 200 yards, only needing a roof for the sun, and a small boat to get to shore...the depth would probably be about 10´ if I ever got out that far...so far, 100 yards out is up to my beltline...

...when gas went to $2/gallon the first time I smelt a skunk...also when duct tape got its 15 minutes of fame...when gas went to $4/gallon I knew we were being treated like boiling frogs...how much could we take before it was too much and anarchy ruled...so...when gas again got to $2 and no one really said or acted as if it were again the ministrations of greed, it was time for me to do what I´ve done since the first price gouging...

...I looked for relief...philippines is probably even better since we earn 9 times their per capita income, but the yucatan is 4 hours from the TVD...and Sonny already knows where my heart is...up with the men who have always stood in the gaps...the Mountain Rangers...

Good things to all...and to all a good night...ho ho ho...


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: I'm looking for some help from Rangers. I've been in touch lately with the Editor of Static Line, and basically, I'm told that the Ranger Column is "wide open" and I can write just about anything I want to, except stay away from Religion and Politics. That makes sense. What I need to know, is what do all of you want to have written? What are your interests? Where are your stories? What do you want to read about? I can start with a blank computer screen, and go from there, but I'd rather have Rangers tell me what they want to have published, or what they want to read about. Need some help Rangers. Go direct and give me a message. jjmattison@verizon.net

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ok Rangers, here's one for you to go to. Go to the internet site entitled: anysoldier.com After you're there, go to the Top/Middle and select News & Stuff. Under that icon, a drop down will appear. Scroll down the drop down until you come to "The Video Corner". Click on that, and another page will pop up. Enjoy the videos. Some are a little "heavy" (not for PTSD sufferers) and some are a riot. I for one liked the Baghad Hells Angels, and the Norwegian Infantry Infantry in Kosovo. There's great footage on Paratroopers (entitled Paratrooper), and a real good video on Helicopters near the bottom. I was led to this site by a friend at work, (I work at the VA) who is also a Veteran. A Marine Veteran, but I won't hold that against him. Take care Rangers, and enjoy. Joe

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: Ross Hall, I enjoyed reading "Mountain Ranger". I love hearing those old stories from the Rangers. It was also an honor that you gave me a chapter in the book among all the greats, thanks. Sharon, you are an awesome photographer and the pics you took for the book captured the intensity of training. Like I told you before, you should be an "honorary Rangerette", no disrespect intented.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: So Mark - what's it like for an ex-pat in Mexico?

Posted:
Name: Mark Jordan
Message: ...loco gringo Ranger just checking in with sitrep about invasion of Yucatan...I´m continuing to recon for taking back what´s been allowed so far...the mayans just don´t know it yet...official raid time is december 21, 2012 when Kulkucan in coming back and the mayan calender ends...I think it´d be a great time for airborne insertion around midnight...they'll think we're the gods floating down from the sky...Sonny, you´ll be jumpmaster...it shouldn´t take more than a platoon or so... ...actually, I´m in Sisal, a small fishing town on the gulf of mexico almost across the peninsula from Cancun...seeing if my pension goes a bit further here than in the states, but as Sonny told me when I was about to leave the mountains for awhile, ¨my heart will always be along the TVD¨... ...All Good Things for All of YOU and Yours... (you can see by my email address that getting used to a spanish keyboard ain´t quite my forte´...)... RLTW!!! Mark...but in Sisal and Hunucma...¨Santa Claus¨...sheesh...

Posted:
Name: Bill Miller
Message: To ALL RANGERS. Happy Independence Day, and GOD BLESS our TROOPS!!

Posted: 7/4/2009
Name: Bob Williams
Message: Joe, Check your email. The number I sent you works. I just talked to Reed. He is visiting family and doing well. Still fighting medication, but driving on.

Posted:
Name: Joe Amerling
Message: Is there any update on Reid Leisinger? I had been in telephone contact with weekly before he went into the hospital then his phone was disconected.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Cathy, I've told you before that when you're going to send me these love notes, you should use my email address, and not be so public about it. Ok, ok....we love you too. Joe

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! May God bless you always and keep you safe! Love 2 U!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Glad to know that LTC Stone came by during the last meeting. Glad to know that Tommy is doing well. Joe

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Doug, don't forget my hat at the meeting tonight.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Hi Doug, my mailing address is: 410 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. Home Telephone: (585) 593-1007. Thanks. Joe

Posted:
Name: Don Hughes
Message: Would like to get Doug McCabes email address to correspond.

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Rangers. As far as I can tell we will be having a meeting tomorrow at 1900 hrs. I cannot be sure as I can not get in touch with any of the officers.I plan on showing up. Larry Bragg the Vice Chair said that we was.RLTW...

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Jerry Roberts. Glad to hear from you again. Will you be at Benning for the RHOF on 4and 5 Aug? If so I will see you then,keep in touch and post on this site whenever.RLTW.

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Pepsi Joe. Send me your address to me by e-mail. I have got you something to write about.RLTW..

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Roger that Smokin' Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks Al. I appreciate the support. Does this mean that I can also count on you to contribute a story or two?

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Joe, glad to hear your going to do the Static Line. We all know you can be very articulate and of course knowledgeable on Rangers and the history behind us. Get 'er done ! A.P.

Posted:
Name: Jerry Roberts
Message: Hello everyone, glad I recognize some of the names on this board. It certainly has been a long time since I was at the Mountain camp, glad to see Perry at Benning for the Best Ranger. Hello Mr. Roberts, glad you guys are up and about. Tell Ketchum hello for me.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: For all Rangers; I'd like to approach this article in Static Line as "our" article, not my article. I'm going to need stories. I'm going to need "your" stories. Once Ross guides me through the set up on this, I'll be ready to turn "your story" into the format that is required, and get it published. If you send me a story, and it's published, it goes in under your name. Your story, your credit. I'll let you know when I'm ready to take them. I have a few "technical details" to work out with a whole lot of help from Ross, and after that....we publish Ranger Stories, your way. Thanks....Joe

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: The Geriatric Generation did a lot as Rangers. Korea and Viet Nam are their time frames. The problem is, they have to have the stories read to them whilst they eat their cream of wheat and keep their blankets tucked in tight. All except for Doug and Earl of course. Their both going to go down with their swords in their hands and the blood of a wooly mastadon smeared across their chests and arms.

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: Well put, Ross!! :-) I agree with you completely - Joe does seem to have the ability to put "ALOT" into words. I'm having trouble believing that Joe would even consider giving up this challenge to the geriatric generation. What's up with that, Joe??

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Rangers, it doesn't really matter to me who takes the slot, but there's only one Ranger Writer, and that be me. Personally, I think Joe would be perfect. He has the knowledge and contacts and he sure has no trouble putting his thoughts down in print. You go, Joe. I've got another book to write.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Doug; You just wrote a very articulate posting. How about you being the Ranger Writer?

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Joe Mattison. You the man.I just got back from Ross Halls and we had a long talk. Both of us agrees that you are the chosen one.Earl believes in you Mike Martin too.Joe, maybe by doing this we could get more RANGERS as Airborne man of the year.The ball is on the 20 yard line pick it up and run like hell.RLTW>

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: You know Earl, I happen to think that you would do a great job with this. You're pretty close (geographically) to Ross, and I think you're a pretty good writer. What do you think?

Posted:
Name: Bill Miller
Message: Doug Perry, Did you receive the BDQ patch for inside or outside? Will talk to you soon.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Joe sounds to me like you have already volunteered to replace Ross. I will be glad to help, I have lots of stories about Doug that I will be glad shear. Thanks for volunteering I can't think of anyone better or more qualified.RLTW

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ross, we Rangers are chimps with the alphabet. If we were any smarter, we would have gotten a real job such as "auto lubrication specialist" at a Jiffy Lube. If Doug doesn't come up with some real stories for me, then I'm going to make them up, and I'm going to use Dougs name in vain. Did he ever tell you about the time he was on R and R in Saigon, and got hooked up with....well, I'll save that story for the Static Line issue, unless of course he gives me another story to write about!

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Joe, you're right. There's no pay with Static Line or with the various newsletters I've written for WAR, but there are definitely benefits. Being sort of a voice for Rangers has given me great satisfaction over the years. That being said, getting Rangers to say anything on their own is like getting a chimp to type the alphabet. You can do it but it takes a lot of prodding. I've been trying to get a war story from Doug for years. Prod. Prod. Doug. Prod.

I'm going to write one more, which means another month before a new column is needed. It's been a pleasure, but it's time for a rotation.


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Doug..."I am saddened...I would like to see someone like Joe Mattison"....etc, etc,....is this a setup or what? You had better give me a whole bunch of BDQ stories or I'll talk about you like a "dog" that you are!!

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Wait a minute guys...I haven't committed to this yet! I will require a whole bunch of input from fellow Rangers (such as yourself who have a keyboard) to help me out. Last time I talked to Ross, the pay and benefits were "shi-T" So before I say...yeah, ok....I need to know that a whole bunch of Rangers....thats right....starting with you two...are behind me 100% and then some..... Do we have a deal or what?

Posted:
Name: OWENS
Message: Joe...Doug Perry is right!-- YOU would be "perfect" for the JOB, your knowledge of Ranger History, your writing skills and you have all the attributes of a good writer....Sounds like the shoe fits to me.... JIM

Posted:
Name: Doug Perry
Message: Ross Hall. I read your Rangers every issue of the Static Line.I am saddend about you having to give it up.I would like to see someone like Joe Mattison to take that duty over. How about it Joe ?RLTW>>

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: It happened because you've been drinking again, and you kept hitting the button. Bet you can't guess how I know that?

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: Help webmaster, take one of them off...I don't know how that happened. Sorry everyone!

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: I agree with you Cookie and Derrick. Those are wonderful words and I wish that everyone really knew what we know and that is "Rangers never give up". I realize that not every soldier is a Ranger but it just goes to show you how the brotherhood is between fellow soldiers. I know in the civilian world the true followship among friends and co-workers are not like that of the military. The military not only give of themselves to the USA but they give so much to others on a day to day basis. I am having a hard time adjusting to civilian life again (even though I was a civilian anyway) after working with the soldiers at CFM for 26 years you begin to think like them and it is hard to understand some of the reasoning behind things that us as civilians do or say. I just thank God so much for the teachings of life that the Rangers and soldiers of CFM gave me. The love of God, country, family, animals and the bonds that they have with one other is just great. I have been taught so much. I came in as a naive country girl with little smarts and I feel I left with a much maturer way of dealing with life and what it dishes out sometimes. If I get down and out, I just remember what some of the guys have been thru and I re-group my thoughts away from me. I am a much stronger person, my strength comes from God, my Rangers and soldiers and from being part of the military community for so long. God Bless! P.S. Terry how are you?

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: I agree with you Cookie and Derrick. Those are wonderful words and I wish that everyone really knew what we know and that is "Rangers never give up". I realize that not every soldier is a Ranger but it just goes to show you how the brotherhood is between fellow soldiers. I know in the civilian world the true followship among friends and co-workers are not like that of the military. The military not only give of themselves to the USA but they give so much to others on a day to day basis. I am having a hard time adjusting to civilian life again (even though I was a civilian anyway) after working with the soldiers at CFM for 26 years you begin to think like them and it is hard to understand some of the reasoning behind things that us as civilians do or say. I just thank God so much for the teachings of life that the Rangers and soldiers of CFM gave me. The love of God, country, family, animals and the bonds that they have with one other is just great. I have been taught so much. I came in as a naive country girl with little smarts and I feel I left with a much maturer way of dealing with life and what it dishes out sometimes. If I get down and out, I just remember what some of the guys have been thru and I re-group my thoughts away from me. I am a much stronger person, my strength comes from God, my Rangers and soldiers and from being part of the military community for so long. God Bless! P.S. Terry how are you?

Posted:
Name: ~C
Message: SGM Baumann - thanks for the excellent post. I hope you don't mind that I copy, paste, and spread the word via email. Stay safe, ~Cookie

Posted:
Name: Runyon
Message: Well said Terry. Stay safe and tell CSM Kirkover I said Hi too.

Posted:
Name: SGM Terry Baumann
Message: Just a note from Baghdad, Iraq. I read through some recent posts about our fellow Rangers who were killed recently. It's hard to deal with the loss of friends and coworkers, but with the knowledge that those still patrolling makes it somewhat easier. Recently we had 6 wounded warriors revisit Iraq the site where all of them lost a limb or in one case one who lost an arm and a leg. The true spirit of American Soldiers is evident when you hear them speak about their recovery and plans later in life. It's truly inspiriational when all they wanted was to return to their unit and continue the fight. The American public doesnt know their names and the media will never broadcast a positive story. However these guys are amazing young men overcoming adversities which most of us couldnt imagine. Thank you fellow Rangers for your support and prayers to our soldiers still in harms way. Please remember the wounded warriors in our ranks, they inspire me and display the meaning of the Ranger Creed on a daily basis, Terry Baumann, 2-505 OPS SGM, JSS Belidiyat, Iraq. RTLW

Posted:
Name: Ross Hall
Message: Rangers, I've been writing a monthly Ranger column for the Static Line Airbone newsmagazine for about three years now, but I'm going to have to give it up. I'll do one or two more to try and fill the gap until they can find somebody else to contribute. If anyone is interested, please contact me and I'll put you with the right people. pageone@windstream.net

I consider it an honor to have been able to write those words in support of Rangers. I took it over from Bob Black, the great Korean War Ranger, and I hope someone of like knowledge will continue this forum.


Posted:
Name: George Horkan
Message: Don Hughs tells me the NCO in FLorida was JQ Jutras. Thanks for that Don.

Posted:
Name: George Horkan
Message:

Thanks for the posting Joe. Yea; I left my knee imprints ni the metal dash of that CJ5. Had my seatbelt on too, thanks to Joe. Probably would have gone through the windshield and into the hood that popped up if I hadn't.

I've been refreshing my memory, what there is of it, with Joe and by reading "Mountain Ranger". Its brought back a lot of memories. (Thanks Ross & all contributers).

When I went through Ranger School with class 3-76 (Oct-Dec 1975) there were two instructors that really impressed me. One was in the mountain phase, a SFC White. The other in Florida & I think it was Justrice. Kept his sleeves rolled up, arms camoflaged, and it was 22 degrees with swamp water up to our necks. Dusted off 5 guys from my patrol that night with hypothermia. Just seeing this RI with his sleeves rolled up made me think, "If he can do it, so can I". I didn't roll my sleeves up but I made the patrol. I got through Ranger School but went back to 1st Rgr. Bn. with , what the doc's called, a combination of trench foot and mild frostbite. I got back and guess where we were going(?). Alaska for Operation Jack Frost.

I can't believe they took passage of the FFU out. It is such an important part of patrolling, I don't care where you are.

Team 33: Ketchum, Beltran, Hawk, Mattison, Tony, Flores, Forman, Lewis ...... Hope your all doing all right. It was an honor to serve with professionals like yourselves and I learned from each of you. Thanks. George


Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: For those of you who can go back to the early 80s, I just received an email from George Horkin who served there as an RI on the old Patrolling Committee, 33 Staff. He and I were involved in a head on collision with a brass picker on the old Mulky Gap road. It totalled out both vehicles. We were all lucky to walk away from it, and it took another brand new CJ5 off the roster of available vehicles. George is doing well, and like me, he went into Nursing after leaving the Army. He mentioned that he has read Ross's new book and has laughed his a-- off a couple of times, and could have added quite a few stories of his own. At any rate, for those who know him, George is doing well, living in Georgia and still Nursing.

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Ross, I received the shipment of books yesterday afternoon. They all arrived in great shape. Thanks for the special packaging and handling. Take care friend. Joe

Posted:
Name: Webmaster
Message: Thanks to Al Parten, Amie Close, & Sharon Hall for sending the pictures. I still have a few more to post.

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Bob, Thanks for loading the new photos from the Fish Fry and Open house. Al P

Posted: 6/14/2009
Name: cecil sager
Message: here is reed lisingers email for those that know him he is a LT in the washington state prison system out side of spokane.I am sure as a old ranger he would love to hear from old buddys.

Posted:
Name: David Lucius
Message: My Family was on vacation last week. I heard of Kevin's death a day or two before we had to leave. I posted it on here as soon as I heard. Sorry if I didn't get back with anybody who may of had questions. I rushed over to the grave sight as soon as we got home this evening. The Ranger Tab of flowers blew me away.!! Very Nice RLTW

Posted:
Name: Searching for Col Mark D. Harrell
Message: Hi, My name is Tom Capps I am a retired SFC, ex-member of the 82nd, and was kicking around Panama for 3 years after the little live fire exercise there in 1989 with the 5/87th as a infantry platoon sergeant then the battalion operations sergeant. I am searching for Col (Ret) Mark D. Harrell, the author of various books about Rangers, like Night of the Ranger. I served with Col Harrell at Siena College. I need him to contact me. I have my own little high tech startup and I am in the process of raising approximately $16 million from Angel investors, sports and media celebrities, and private investors. Anyway, he wrote me an excellent reference letter from my Siena ROTC days and I need to see if he would repeat it on linkedin. When you are trying to raise that much cash, every little bit of credibility helps. I can be reached any of the following ways: W. 408-496-0833 Cell 408-661-7830 email tcapps54@aol.com my startup company's email: tcapps@m57tech.com or by linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/tomcapps or my company's website: www.m57tech.com If anyone knows Col Harrell and how to contact him and would pass on this message for a fellow soldier I would appreciate it. Thanks, Tom Capps

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Thanks Steve. I appreciate your post about the brick. Mark and I are in for a few dollars already. I hope others are willing to send a few dollars who knew him. We have to take care of our own, no one else will.

Posted:
Name: Steve Bishop
Message: I spoke with Tina Myhre today. She and her children are doing fine, but miss Bob. Mark Stout mentioned getting a "Brick" for Bob, but needs financial help. Anyone who would like to help, please contact me either on line or @ 678-758-0628. Thanks... Rangers Lead the Way...

Posted:
Name: Cathy Beck
Message: Rangers,since the lose of the recent soldiers, I have to say this to all of you. Even though being a soldier was your choice or profession (after mandatory enlistment or whether or you just wanted to join) you have impacted so many lives. Whether it be just in passing and saying hello or even if we have never met. I don't know if this is making sense to any you but I have been reflecting on all of you since the loss of the recent deaths of soldiers from Camp Merrill. You may not realize it since you are use to moving around, meeting all types of people from all around the world and you may not even know that you have impacted someone during your stay, but you did. So many of you have passed thru my life and all of you have meant something to me. I had rather see a smile on a soldiers face more than anything. A smile is contagious and if you smile, then maybe your life is okay that day. That matters! You as soldiers go thru alot in your profession and I don't see how you handle some situations like you do. You are elite, you do care about others and you do leave an impact on people. I just wanted to tell all of you and to 'THANK YOU' for sharing your smiles, your words, your kindness with me, even though you might not of even known it. God bless you all and your familes and thank you for being there for me and my family. I love you all so much and I am grateful for my time that I was allowed to be part of any of your lives. I am blessed by all of you.

Posted:
Name: Earl Singletary
Message: Rangers it saddens me to announce the passing of a great friend and Ranger, McDonald Valentine. He lost his fight with ailments caused by agent orange. He fought a good fight for over a year. He served as an Advisor to the Vietnamese Rangers in Vietnam. He co- authored the book Black Tigers. Visitation will be at 0900 Mon. with services at 1100. Location is McDonald and Son Funeral Home, 150 Sawnee Dr. Cumming Ga...I spoke with Mike Martin this morning and he informed me that Mac"s wife is left with financial problems. If you would like to make a contribution, send it to USMRA, 1 Camp Frank D Merrill, Dahlonega Ga 30533. Mark your contributions to McDonald Valentine. Please keep the family in your prayers. RLTW

Posted: 6/11/2009
Name: Al Parten
Message: I was listening to AM 550, a Gainesville, Ga. Radio station at work today. They had live on the Air coverage of Maj. Jenrette's arrival to the Gainesville Airport and then his Military and Police escort through the town and then on to the Funeral Home. From what I heard, thousands of people lined the streets and most Business Places allowed their employees to come out and hold American Flags as the Escort went by. It was heart warming to hear that some folks still care about our small town Hero's and show their respect in that Manner. RLTW, Al P.

Posted: 6/10/2009
Name: Runyon
Message: I spent a few days working with Maj Jenrette inproccess his unit in Kabul a few weeks ago. It was great to see him and spend those days together. Kind of felt like a relief to have a Ranger Buddy show up. I got called last night from my wifes aunt who lives close to the family in Lula. She said the visitations should be Thursday and Friday night 1600-2100 at Memorial Park in Gainseville.The Funeral should be Saturday 1500 at the Timberidge(Rd.)Baptist Church in Lula. Smitty, Rob, Mark, thanks for the picture and if you get the Phoenix memorial flyer send it to me.

Posted:
Name: Steve Hawk
Message: Rangers

Ok, new info. my last post was old info. Reid did have heart problems and was put in the hospital. However this was several weeks ago and is out. Spoke with Craig Polzin who advised Reid didn't want alot of people to know. Sorry about that Reid. ANyway apparently he is better and following the doctors orders. Sorry to worry some but when I get the info I post it. Get well Reid

Steve


Posted:
Name: steve hawk
Message: Rangers

Just recieved word that Reid Lessinger is hospitalized with congestive heart failure somewhere.

I am not familer with his location or current condition. If anyone has contact please post.

Steve


Posted:
Name: Tom Dartez
Message: I had the privlidge of working with Major Jenrette for at least two years. He was the S4 and then the S3 Air and Joe Turner and I ran the FTX Duke was the NCOIC and Major Blackmon was the S3. Some of my best memories working with those gentlemen. Jamie hit the nail on the head when she said "he always stopped to speak to her". He was just that type of guy. We spent many hours pulling duty together during FTX's as we manned the radios and prepared the in-wakers briefs. He truly loved the Army but loved his family more. Last time I saw him he was trying to figure out a way to serve the Army but not force his famly to move. I guess he found a way. I know there are no words to make make his family feel better at a time like this, but would like them to know that he was truly respected and liked by those of us who served with him. Please post when his service will be as soon as it is known. Thanks and God Bless Ranger Dartez

Posted:
Name: Jamie Seabolt Musgrove
Message: I may not have "served" WITH you guys at CFM but I served enough of you guys at The Overhang over the 9 years I worked there as a Sunday bartender to feel a close connection with the RANGER family. The loss of Kevin Jenrette is tragic and I'm so sorry this has happened...Even though a few years have passed since I last saw Kevin I can still recall his smiling face and how he always stopped to speak to me when he was on post. He was way more than just a nice guy---he was a good friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends who are feeling his loss. I pray they find some comfort knowing how many people Kevin touched in his life. After all, the measure of a man's life can't be judged on what he accomplished or what he had. It's judged on how he lived his life and how many people hold his memory in high regard. Well done, Kevin...

Posted:
Name: Al Parten
Message: Bob, I have quite a few from the fish fry and open house ( 45 ) I'll go through and send the best ones. Al P.

Posted:
Name: Bucky Simmons
Message: I am looking for info on Maj Kevin Jenrette's services. I worked with Kevin, SFC Jimmy Rawlston, and SFC Will Holden during the years on reunion in Toccoa and really thought a lot of them all. I had talked with Capt J several times over the years since he left the 5th RTB and really had the wind knocked out of me when I heard the bad news. If anyone can give me any info I would appreciate it. Kevin was a good friend and a great man. Thanks to you all. Bucky Simmons Toccoa Ga.

Posted: 6/7/2009
Name: Patrick Smith
Message: Myself, Mark Keith, and Rob Olsen will be attending a memeriol service for Maj Kevin Jenrette this morning. I would like to share a photo of all of us that was taken just 3 weeks prior to the incident. We would gather every once in a while for the Dahlonega "huddle"... just to keep in touch with each other. He was an awesome friend and Ranger. There is hardly words to say... he will be sadly missed.


Posted:
Name: Webmaster
Message: I have posted a few pictures from the cookout and open house in the Photo Album. If there are any more out there, please send them to me.

Posted:
Name: Amie Close
Message: I have Pitures from the CCO and also Ranger Open House and have been trying to send them to the Web Master but I don't know if he has recieved them and on a more somber note our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the Rangers lost , it is very sad day .

Posted:
Name: Joe Mattison
Message: Sixty Five years ago today, the largest Amphibious Operation in the history of mankind was launched by American, British, Canadian, and many other Coalition forces against the German Defenses on the beaches of Normandy, France. The 2nd and 5th Ranger Battalions were there, and each of them added to our Ranger history in their own way. 2nd Ranger Bn had the mission of scaling the cliffs at and scuttling the anti-naval shore batteries and 5th Ranger Bn had the mission of "Leading the Way" over what was expected to be the heavily defended stretch of beach. Each Ranger Battalion succeeded in their missions and overcame, adapted and improvised as needed in the process of accomplishing those missions. A WWII Ranger would be somewhere around 82-95 years of age today. With our own Rangers continually going into "harms way" in Afghanistan and Iraq, the Rangers of yesterday, whilst they remember their noble deeds of 65 years ago, can take great pride in the accomplishments of all Rangers of all generations which include the Ranger Companies of Korea, and Viet Nam. The Ranger Battalions in all post Viet Nam Operations to include Grenada, and Panama, and the current generation of Rangers in Iraq, and Afghanistan. Good job, to all Rangers, and thanks for what you do.