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Comments: Please take your time to read what others have written here and enjoy the messages or suggestions that friends have left on our web site. We would like to hear what your comments are. If you are a former member of Tan Son Nhut, Air Base, or passed through the base, we especially need to hear from you, today.
Name: Gene Gilbert (Echo Sector) Dec 30, 2007
Email:
Comments: Hi guys, was lost til I found this webpage. I was with Echo 1, with Palmer, Cogwell and Hensgen, Charley Flight on the night of TET 1968. Hi big head Donaldson,
whatsup catsup?
Sincerely E.Gilbert
Name: Robert Partridge Dec 28, 2007
Email:
Comments: I just wanted to sign the guest book. I was in the 377th during 1969 - 1970. I just came across this site as a fluke, however, as we all know the time
we spent over there is put in the back of our minds but never forgotten.
I really have mixed emotions about the reception of our troops coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan. I am glad to
see them come home and cheered by the public.
But then again I sadly remember having to quickly change out of my uniform at the airport when coming home from Vietnam, to lessen the chance of being
spit on or harassed.
But on a happier note – I wish you all a great and continued “R &R”.
Name: Charles Penley (Sentry Dog Section) Dec 23, 2007
Email:
Comments: I want all of you to have a, "Merry Christmas and a Hapy New Year!" Eat all the good food that you want and to share your love with your family and friends.
To be safe during the holidays.
To remember all those who are currently serving and who have served before us.
Your friend,
Charles Penley
Name: Thomas Bell, (Central Security Control) Dec 23, 2007
Email:
Comments: Hey guys,
A couple of days early, but sending you all a Christmas Greetings and a blessed New Year.
The best thing that happened to me this year was finding you guys
after all these years.
Cold and blustery here in Middletown, OH today with a wind chill of around 15 above; a good day to finish unpacking my worldly possessions. Moved 2 weeks ago and
still surrounded by boxes. Listening to the blues on the radio and wrapping gifts for my kids. Thawing out a turkey breast to put in the crock pot and waiting for the football game to
begin at 1300 hrs. Cleveland Browns vs. my Cincinnati Bengals; big rivalry!!
I'll be in touch.
Thom
Name: Pat Houseworth Dec 16, 2007
Email:
Comments: Charles and other 377th SPS Veterans ... Merry Christmas and the best of health in the upcoming New Year.
Pat Houseworth
14th SPS Nha Trang 1969 A Flight LE
377th SPS TSN 1969 - 70 Charlie Flight Security
Name: Terry "Curly" Marcum Dec 13, 2007
Email:
Comments: This site gave me chills.
I never dreamed all this information would be available. I served in the Base Police section in 1969 - 1970.
I have
pictures and other information, no email at this time but can be contacted through Charles Penley's email listed above.
Name: Gordon Poland Dec 03, 2007
Email:
Comments: Howdy folks; I'm sending this note for the 377th Security Police log. Just wanted to log on to our site and wish you all a, "Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year."
Gordon Poland
K-9 Forever!
Name: Charles Penley Nov 29, 2007
Email:
Comments: I have put up a temporay web page on Google, showing the Tan Son Nhut Map, TET Offensive, Jan 31, 1968.
It is six scans of Col Peebles map that I combined together to get one
map.
It shows many but not all of the 377th Security Police fighting positions during TET.
Alignment is off a little but approximately 98% lined up.
I will take it to a larger scanner
and get it redone.
Please go to URL:
http://cepenley.googlepages.com/map.jpg/map-full.jpg
Once the map has loaded up, put your mouse pointer on the map and click
it, the map will get larger.
Your friend,
Charles Penley
Name: Charles Penley Nov 29, 2007
Email:
Comments: Many of you already know that Col Farley E. Peebles, 377th Combat Support Group, Base Commander, during the TET Offensive, Jan 31, 1968, departed this life on Jul 27, 2007.
Col Peebles, was a Tan Son Nhut Association Member, till his death.&nsp; Another of the TSNA Members, Mr Bob Laymon, was a "Life Long" friend to the Peebles Family.
It was Col Peebles wish that
the Tan Son Nhut Association have possession of several Tan Son Nhut items that he brought back from Vietnam:
1. Feb 1, 1968 Map of Tan Son Nhut, showing most of the 377th Security Police fighting positions during Attack on Tan Son Nhut, TET 1968.
2. Large aerial photograph of Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Vietnam.
3. A six foot circular rug that he had in his office at Tan Son Nhut. It has the 377th Combat Support Group emblem woven into the rug.
4. A three foot circular rug that he had in his office at Tan Son Nhut. It has the 7th Air Force Patch, woven into the rug. If you happened to appear before Col Peebles for
disciplinary actions, such as an Article-15, you would be called upon this rug, to receive your punishment.
All four of the items mentioned above will be brought to the next TSNA Reunion.
I
will make some photographs and post them on the TSNA Photo of the Month for January 2008.
The Peebles Family still own these items. They are to go back to them or to the Texas Tech
University.
TTU is the world's largest collector of Vietnam information and items.
Col Peebles and Bob Laymon, the Tan Son Nhut Association owes you both our gratitudes.
Thank You,
Charles Penley
Name: Tim Mitchell Nov 29, 2007
Email:
Comments: I was stationed at Tan Son Nhut from Oct 1967 to Oct 1968. I was at work in one of the hangers on Jan 31, 1968. We were “trapped,” so to speak, in our shop until
I believe the 1st or 2nd of Feb 1068, due to sappers and other misc. reasons.
We were not armed and depended solely on the 377th Security Police Squdron, to keep us safe. I did not know,
and this is a very good thing, how much we were in danger and the extent of the attack until many, many weeks later when I was with one of your SP’s at the NCO club. Of course I thought about
half of what he told me was “GI” talk. I found out after I rotated that he was probably minimizing the event.
At any rate, I want to say for myself and for many other men, how much we
appreciate the fact that when we were hiding in safety, the 377th SPS, was risking their lives for us.
God Bless and keep you all.
T. Mitchell
SSgt, 460th AMS
FROM THE WEB MASTER: Tim, thank you for your above comments about the 377th Security Police. I was with the security police during the TET Offensive 1968.
Not only was it the security police but many other organizations and individuals who were there that night, that also deserves "Thanks."
To everyone who was on Tan Son Nhut that night
and the following days, "I thank each and every one of you."
"Welcome Home, Everyone."
Name: Jerry Locey Nov 22, 2007
Email:
Comments: I was in the 377th Security Police Squadron, K-9 section, from Jun 1969 - Jul 1970. I'm interested in joining and giving you my information to complete your
record's. This has brought back alot of memories.
Thank You,
Jerry Locey
Name: Randy Stutler Nov 17, 2007
Email:
Comments: Charles, I sure missed you at the Washington, DC Reunion. I was hoping to see a bunch of guys from the Tan Son Nhut Association at the parade ..., I didn't see any of
those beautiful TSN patches.
I would like to encourage anyone who was a member of the 377th Security Police Sqdn. to join the Vietnam Security Police Assn.., What a wonderful reunion we had!
I think there was something like 460 members there ..., we were the largest group marching in the parade ..., What a wonderful five days it was ..., Stop by VSPA.com..., there is a lot open to the
public.
43 years ago I left many of my friends in Vietnam ..., I never thought I would see any of them again. I didn't go to reunions and such ..., I did march in the original "March to
The Vietnam Memorial" (which was not yet there) in 1978 ..., It was worth the wait ..., WELCOME HOME BROTHERS !
Randy "Ramps" Stutler
377th Security Police Sqdn.
Tan Son Nhut Airbase
Oct 1965 - Nov 1966
Name: Gary Redlinski (US Army Mortuary) Nov 17, 2007
Email:
Comments: I wanted to share with you, two web pages that has excellent photographs of the Veteran's Day Parade 2007. The photographs are at URL:
15 photographs in USA Today web page:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/gallery/n071110_veterans/flash.htm
71 photographs in the Stars and Stripes web page:
http://www.stripes.com/07/nov07/parade/
Gary Redlinski
TSN Mortuary 5/68-7/70
Name: Charles Penley, Nov 16, 2007
Email:
Comments: I am asking for everyone's help. I am beginning a new project to show locations of many bunkers and towers that were located on Tan Son Nhut Air Base.
Whatever
section or sector that you belonged to, I would like for you to draw what you remember of your sector.
No one individual can do it alone but need everyone's help.
I will send my address to
those who are willing to help
Your friend,
Charles Penley
Name: Michael Dominiak, Nov 15, 2007
Email:
Comments: I was an early arrival to the 6250th Air Police, but I still remember Capt Holliday and Lt Woods, who I had worked for while stationed at Duluth AB, Minnesota. They
arrived at Tan Son Nhut sometime after my arrival in 1965.
In Duluth I was a clerk in the Air Police office. A lot of old memories.
Name: Daniel B. Whipple, Nov 15, 2007
Email:
Comments: By accident, I happened to come across your website. Very impressive, and a lot of good information is made available.
I was a member of Task Force 35, which
augmented the 377Security Police Squadron during the Tet offensive, January to May 1968. My tour of duty at Tan Son Nhut covered the period September 1967 to September 1968.
I'm writing
because of a speech engagement coming up early in 2008. Is it possible to obtain permission to copy a few of the photo's available at the Association website? These would be used as
visual aids during my upcoming presentation.
I'm also surprised that I did not see any other members of our QRT platoon listed as members or visitors to your site. Hopefully, more will
find and appreciate your collective efforts.
Thank you,
Dan
Name: Charles Penley, Nov 05, 2007
Email:
URL:
Attacks On Tan Son Nhut DVD
*** WARNING ** *** WARNING ** *** WARNING **
1. This DVD contains a few scenes showing death. Please know who is in the room with you when viewing.
2. This DVD is 107 minutes long. I did not put any audio narration, sound effects or music to it. It is a silent DVD. Consists of still photographs and movie film.
3. Recommend that this be shown on your DVD player connected to your television. The moving graphics, photographs and movie film will be smooth as silk.
4. I watched this on my DVD on my computer and there were a few micro-seconds of hesitations.
5. There are four sections to it and you can watch each section individually or you can watch all of them, one after the other.
Charles Penley
377th Security Police Squadron
Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Saigon
Oct 1967 - Jul 1969
Price: $ 19.00 total ( S&H is included in that price.)
Contact Charles Penley,
email:
Name: Charles Penley, Nov 05, 2007
Email:
URL:
At some time in the future, the 377th Security Police Squadron and the Tan Son Nhut Association web pages, will no longer be on the internet. To help keep our heritage alive, a CD has been developed.
With the help of twenty-three (23) individuals and seven months of hard work, the CD is now ready for release.
Some of the various sections are listed below:
1. Over 500 Photographs
2. 49 Stars and Stripes newspaper articles with, TSN by-lines
3. Air Force newspaper with, TSN by-lines
4. 377th Security Police Squadron newsletter
5. Documents
6. Stories
7. Memorial
8. Book Section
9. Building numbered and named
10. Cartoon's
11. Miscellaneous
Price: $ 20.00 total ( S&H is included in that price.)
Contact Charles Penley,
email:
Name: Thomas Bell, Nov 02, 2007
Email:
Comments: Just found this web page tonight and boy did it take me back. I was stationed at Tan Son Nhut, Air Base from December 1968 until July 1970 with the 377th Security Police
Squardron, "C" Flight, and worked at Central Security Control.
Chris Godfrey was my best pal with Daniel Benavidez bringing up a close second. Neither of which I have seen or talked to in
40 years. I located both of them on this web site tonight and I am thankful.
Tell me how I can post my information on this site.
Thanks so much,
Thomas Bell
Name: James R. Speer, Nov 01, 2007
Email:
Comments: My name is James R. Speer and served with the 377th Security Police Squadron, at Tan Son Nhut RVN, from Jan 1969 to Jan 1970, with Law Enforcement. I worked primarily out
of the 7th AF Headquarters Compound. Entry/Exit Gate Guard by the 600th Photo Squadron for a month and the rest of the time served across from the Generals’ Compound (entrance to the area that
contained the Officers’ Club, the NCO Club, Airmen’s Club, library, theater, cafeteria and the Office of the Base Police).
I am a Charter/Life Member of the Vietnam Security Police Association, Life
Member of the VFW, member of the American Legion, and member of the Tan Son Nhut Association.
“Welcome Home” to all that read this posting.
James R. Speer
Name: Richard N. Rosen, Oct 29, 2007
Email:
Comments: I enjoy your web site. My name is (Sgt) Richard Rosen and I was with the 377th Base Police from March 1968 to October 1969. I live in Miami and would like to
hear from anyone who remembers me.
I have quite a few pictures of Saigon, Tan Son Nhut and the squadron area, that I'd be willing to post.
Sincerely,
Richard Rosen
Name: Chad Bloom, Oct 20, 2007
Email:
Comments: "To those that served in Vietnam and especially for those that served at Tan Son Nhut, AB, from 1967 - 1968, I wish to express my sincere appreciation and gratitude for your
service. My Father, James Bloom, would have told you that he had the honor to serve in the Central Security Control while you accomplished the mission. He would have told you, as he
told me, that no finer men could be found. He would have told you that he remembered each and every one of you that he met or that he came into contact with over the radio with a reverence and
fondness that only brothers in arms could share. His stories were ones of nick names and call signs but more importantly they were stories of young men in an impossible and unenviable position.
My Father passed away on September 24, 2007. I wish to thank the men of the 377th Security Police Squadron that gave me the period 1968 through 2007 to share with my Father. You
did that as a team and you gave me that gift without knowing it at the time.
I am certain that my Father is now seeking out those that made the ultimate sacrifice. If I know my father I
would suspect he is coordinating to have a keg of beer and a BBQ set up for when you all arrive.
As an Air Force retiree myself, I salute you. An organization does not make the man; instead
you all made the organization. Take pride in your accomplishments.
With great and utmost respect,
Chad Bloom
Name: Charles Penley Oct 05, 2007
Email:
Comments:
BROTHERS, IT IS WITH THE HEAVIEST OF HEARTS THAT I SEND THIS MSG:
The 377th Security Police Squadron, has lost another brother.
Ronald Calvin Pope
PO Box 669
Ashland, AL 36251
Home Address:
534 High Pine Road
Ashland, AL 36251
"Monk" had gone to see his brother out west and on the last day had a massive heart attack.
He was without oxygen for too long and it affected his brain.
On Oct 02, 2007, the plug was pulled on my friend and he is now holding his own, but it does not look good.
On Oct 5, 2007, Ronald Calvin "Monk" Pope, passed from this earth to heaven.
Amen!!!
Your brother,
Charles Penley
Name: Charles Penley Oct 02, 2007
Email:
Comments: The following email came from James Bloom's son, Chad. It was sent to Art Garcia and he informed the rest of us.
**********************************************************************************
Original Message-----
From: Chad [mailto:………………………]
Sent: Monday, October 01, 2007 11:51 PM
To: Art-n-Jane@......................
Subject: Jim Bloom
Art,
Judy shared with me several e-mails that she received from members of the 377th that served with my father in Vietnam. Each and every one of those e-mails was like finding a piece of a puzzle that had been missing for so very long. I want you to know that Dad always spoke fondly of his friendship with you and spoke fondly of those with which he served in Vietnam. He was proud, to the core of his being, of the men that he had the honor to serve with in Vietnam. I have attached a picture I scanned in of Dad in the Control Center in 1967 or 68.
“Honor” is his word, not mine, although I suspect that I would be honored myself to serve with such men. I will qualify that by saying that I had the honor of serving with men just like you in my 23 years in the Air Force (1978-2001). The relationships and bonds that are formed in our service and that are tempered in a combat AOR are ones that endure and transcend all boundaries; race, religion, national origin, and time. They are the bonds that can not be broken nor memories faded as there is no more pureness of thought than to share the experience of combat; to share the experience of realizing that failure not only fails yourself but those with whom you have a brotherhood.
The 377th served with honor and with valor and was such a complex part of my father’s life. In the last several years Dad and I shared many a beer talking of what makes a man the man that he is; of why some rise and some fall in face of the challenge of adversity. Dad always pointed to his experience with the 377th as making him that man, of giving him the opportunity to succeed. But he would always say that it wasn’t the unit that did that because the unit is just a designation for administrative shoe clerks to track statistics and ensure all the paperwork was taken care of. The 377th didn’t earn the PUC; the men of the 377th earned that award or it may be better stated by saying that a unit does not make the men but the men make the unit.
Dad had a wonderful service with his casket adorned by our flag. I spoke for about 10 minutes about his military service and focused on his service in Vietnam and the profound effect that that experience had on him. The service culminated with military honors. His casket was wheeled outside where the flag was folded and presented to me as Judy wished for me to receive it. Then under a wonderful blue sky the honor guard gave a 21 gun salute followed by a flawless rendition of taps by a bugler. The NCOIC of the guard then presented me with 3 shell casings announcing that they represented Duty, Honor, and Sacrifice. As the last note of Taps was played I felt a strange release; perhaps that note had been a long time coming. From my experience as a flight crew member in AF Special Operations I chose the Bible quotation that appears on the US Special Operations Command Memorial at Arlington:
Isaiah 6:8
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, Whom shall I send and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I, send me.”
I wish you and those members of the 377th that survive today a long and prosperous life. I encourage you to share the experiences you had with those with whom you are now close so that they may understand that the man that stands before them was not molded from a cast, but rather, is the sum of all experiences the least of which was not those shared in Vietnam. At 46 years old I suppose that I am, to some degree, a reflection of you men; a reflection of your character; as my father raised me with a little bit of each of you in his heart.
I wish you all the best.
With much respect,
Chad Bloom
Name: Charles Penley Sep 29, 2007
Email:
Comments: It is with regret that I inform you of the passing of SMSgt James K. Bloom, 377th Security Police Squadron. Jim was the security police "Radio Operator," during TET 1968.
Charles Penley
Name: Charles Penley Sep 20, 2007
Email:
Comments: I was doing some research on Tan Son Nhut and found a French web page that has nine 377th Security Police Squadron, Law Enforcement photographs. It is located at URL:
http://grunts.free.fr/377sps/377sps.htm
If any of you can provide names, then it will certainly be welcomed.
Thanks in advance.
Charles Penley
Name: Samuel Miller Sep 18, 2007
Email:
Comments: I served in, "Charlie sector," from 1-29-1970 to 12-15-1970. My rank was Sergeant
Samuel Miller, Jr.
Name: Chester Echermann Sep 08, 2007
Email:
Comments: Good Morning to you. I have a question -- would anyone remember the next morning of the Attack On Tan Son Nhut, 5 December, 1966 when Colonel Coe was looking over the areas where most of the battle occurred and inspecting the TSN permitter fence, he fell into a hole and was injured?
Have a great weekend.
Ike
Name: Chester Echermann Sep 06, 2007
Email:
Comments: To the Web-Master -- 377th Security Police Squadron:
I am trying to find the exact date of an incident that occurred at Tan Son Nhut Air Base. I believe it was in early 1967 when a group of VC tried to penetrate the boundry of the air base. They did not succeed. The men and guard dogs did a superb job, but one guard dog and the handler stood head and shoulders above the rest. Some years later, The Air Force Association Magazine had an article about the guard dogs and I believe about the dogs at Tan Son Nhut.
Can you give me the date of the incident? Colonel Grover Coe was the Base Commander.
Best Regards,
Ike
(Chester E. Eckermann)
(Colonel USAF Retired)
FROM THE WEB MASTER:
Ike, I keep a listing of all the, "Attacks on Tan Son Nhut Air Base," at URL:
http://webpages.charter.net/cepenley/vcnva/index.html
377th Commanders in Vietnam:
Colonel George Budway, April 8, 1966
Colonel Grover K. Coe, October 8, 1966
Colonel Farley E. Peebles, October 4, 1967
Colonel Benjamin B. Shields, July 26, 1968
Colonel Frank E. Marek, September 1969
Colonel Harold E. Hobbs, July 31, 1970
Colonel Charles D. Gunn Jr, July 10, 1971
Colonel David A. Odell, June 27, 1972 - March 28, 1973
Col Coe's assumed command Oct 8, 1966. Therefore the "Attack on Tan Son Nhut," was Dec 4-5, 1966. Go to the above URL that I have given you and look at all the information for attack # 11.
There are two 7th Air Force Newspaper stories about that attack at URL:
http://www.tsna.org/7thafnews/dec091966.html
There were three military working dogs that were killed or wounded during that attack:
1. CUBBY, 612E, Dec 4, 1966, Killed In Action
2. REBEL, 519X, Dec 4, 1966, Killed In Action
3. NEMO, A534, Dec 4, 1966, Wounded In Action
NEMO is the most famous Sentry Dog from the Vietnam War. His handler that night was A1C Robert Throneburg.
Robert was also wounded that night.
Name: Charles Penley, Aug 17, 2007
Email:
URL:
At some time in the future, the 377th Security Police Squadron and the Tan Son Nhut Association web pages, will no longer be on the internet. To help keep our heritage alive, a CD has been developed.
With the help of twenty-three (23) individuals and seven months of hard work, the CD is now ready for release.
Some of the various sections are listed below:
1. Over 500 Photographs
2. 49 Stars and Stripes newspaper articles with, TSN by-lines
3. Air Force newspaper with, TSN by-lines
4. 377th Security Police Squadron newsletter
5. Documents
6. Stories
7. Memorial
8. Book Section
9. Building numbered and named
10. Cartoon's
11. Miscellaneous
Price: $ 20.00 total ( S&H is included in that price.)
Contact Charles Penley
Name: Charles Penley Jul 23, 2007
Email:
Comments: It is with the deepest sympathy that I announce the death of Katharina Cox, beloved wife of Life MEmber Ben Cox, on July 22, 2007. Ben and Katharina were married for fifty-one years. TSgt Ben Cox served with the 377th (Tan Son Nhut) and 635th (U-Tapao) SPS K-9 sections in 1967-68. Please keep Ben and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Cards of Sympathy should be sent to:
The Cox Family
P.O. Box 412
Polk City, FL 33868
Contributions in the name of "Katharina Cox," should be made to your local Cancer Society:
The Cox Family
P.O. Box 412
Polk City, FL 33868
Name: Charles Penley Jul 23, 2007
Email:
Comments: I am trying to locate TSgt Ernest Adams, 377th SPS Kennel Master, TSN. Bill Cummings is wanting to contact you.
Charles Penley
Name: Charles Penley
Jul 20, 2007
Email:
Comments: I am trying to locate Alan Tucker, 377th SPS. He worked Tango-4 tower, during TET Offensive, Jan 31, 1968.
Please help me with this quest.
Charles Penley
Name: Jerry Clevenger Jul 20, 2007
Email:
Comments: Really enjoyed reading the pages on this site. It brought many memoried back to this old mind.
Name: Jon Hubbs Jun 12, 2007
Email:
Comments: My name is Jon D. Hubbs, Sgt. I was assigned to the 377th Security Police Sqd , Tan Son Nhut, Air Base, in 1967
Name: Charles Penley (377th Security Police Squadron) May 24, 2007
Email:
Comments:
I have mentioned before, that I am in the process of making the Tan Son Nhut Association 2008 CD.
One of the pages that it on the new 2008 CD is the Tan Son Nhut KIA's and MIA's. I have identified thirty five photographs of men, who's names appear on our TSNA Memorial web page.
What I have good quality photographs of:
1. Adams
2. Alves
3. Banks
4. Bare
5. Bevich
6. Chiarello
7. Cooke
8. Davis
9. Dusing
10. Griffis
11. Hebron
12. Hincewicz
13. Ibifolchi
14. Judge
15. Lamp
16. McMahon
17. Mills
18. Moore
19. Nellars
20. Pike
21. Smilman
22. Smith
23. Sodaitis
24 Strayer
25. Treece
The following is poor qualitry photographs, similiar to a zerox:
26. Clarke
27. Cole
28. Cyr
29. Cole
30. DeWolf
31. Fischer
32. Grubb
33. Knight
34. Pike
35. Tucker
If you have a photograph of any of the other Tan Son Nhut KIA and MIA, then let me know and I will add them to the "Faces on the Tan Son Nhut Memorial," on the 2008 CD.
Charles Penley
Name: Diane Moore
May 24, 2007
Email:
Comments: I often come and check out the posts but don't leave notes everytime. I did however want to leave one this time.
When I first started using the internet I searched for info on Tan Son Nhut, then attempted to find my dads old squadron. Never found the 6250th Civil Engineers, but happened here, and that was the night my understanding of how special the Air Force was to my dad, Cmsgt Thomas Moore, USAF, spring 1965 to his POW MIA date of October 31 1965. Along with Samuel Adams, Charles Dusing, and Jasper Page who managed to escape.
I have recieved emails from many of you, and there are some of you that literally "have become my adopted uncles" and I have come to know, Bill Price and Kailey Wong as wonderful caring close friends.
I still hope some day, I will find others who per chance might remember my dad. Even hope to make connection with maybe the flight crew of the chopper who flew them to Vung Tau for he R&R on Oct. 30 1965. But if I don't , I just wanted to let all of you who served and returned with honor, how much I thank you. How much you all are important to us kids whose dads did not make it home except with flags draped with them, and how much those of us whose dads are still MIA need you still, to learn and to heal, and to help us with the fight we pursue to bring any remains home.
Daddy's case has had a couple of excavations but no luck as of yet, but I am determined as ever to contiune to keep our Government and officals pressured to their promises. Never leave another behind, and give us the fullest possible accounting. Not only for the past , but for those of the present and the future.
Thank You and Gods Speed,
Diane Moore, daughter and PNOK
Cmsgt Thomas Moore
Name: John Archer
Apr 19, 2007
Email:
Comments: Received your information, from VetFriends.com organizations directory. I went to Phu Quoc from Oct 1967 to Jan 1968, then onto Tan Son Nhut from Jan 1968 till Oct 1969. I was with the Air Force, 377th Security Police Squadron.
Would be interested in hearing of any information about the place from many years ago.
John J. Archer
Name: Randy Stutler
Apr 13, 2007
Email:
Comments: Hell-o Charles !
I don't get around this way often enough, but today seems a little special to me as you know ... it was on 13 April, 1966, we at Tan Son Nhut Air Base, RVN, were attacked like never before!
About 240 some B-40 rockets and mortar rounds, in less than 15 minutes! It seemed like everywhere you looked something was blowing up, all at once!
It was the first time I ever heard mortar rounds go overhead close enough to hear that "covey of quail" sound, as they went by ... then ya hear a big SLAAM!! ... it got my attention!
That was one long night. Some of the crazy things I saw that night. I saw two US Army Officers in a 6-by, stop, get out ... then one aims his Thompson submachine gun into the air, fires off a full 30 round magazine, then jumps into the ditch! I guess he wanted to be able to say he fired his weapon (probably got a bronze star for that brave act).
I wouldn't have missed it for the world ... I volunteered for Vietnam when we found out there was a war going on ... I even convinced Bob Arvai to volunteer with me ... I don't think Bob, was real happy about it after we got there, but he sure was happy when we left. Bob was a good card player, and he made some money while in the RVN.
'Nuf said.
God bless you Charles, keep up your good work, you make many people happy!
Randy Stutler
SFC/US Army (Ret)
Airborne !
FROM THE WEB MASTER: Randy, I would like to pay, "Honor to every Tan Son Nhut Veteran," who was on base that night.
Here is some pertinent information that tells of that night:
1. ATTACK NUMBER ------------------------------------ 007
2. YEAR ------------------------------------------------------- 1966
3. MONTH ---------------------------------------------------- April
4. DAY --------------------------------------------------------- 13
5. HOUR ------------------------------------------------------ 0027
6. BASE ------------------------------------------------------ TSN
7. TYPE ROUNDS Stand-off type weapons --- 243
8. US Aircraft DESTROYED -------------------------- 000
9. US Aircraft DAMAGED ----------------------------- 062
10. US Casualties KILLED IN ACTION ---------- 007
11. US Casualties WOUNDED IN ACTION ---- 111
Name: Ed Daubert
Apr 13, 2007
Email:
Comments: Does anyone from the 377th Security Police Squadron, remember the name of an Law Enforcement post that was just down from the 1300 area and was manned with the ARVN Airborne, and SP's?
Name: Foy Jolley
Apr 03, 2007
Email:
Comments: I am Foy Jolley, Jr., SSgt when I was assigned at Tan Son Nhut, from October 1968 to October 1969 with the 377th Combat Support Group. I was NCOIC of the weapons/ammo conex storage assigned for each member of the unit and Administrative office clerk for 24/7 dining hall operations. MSgt McFarland was the NCOIC of the Dining Hall. Our unit was not on the main base but located near the flight line where TDY arrivals processed in/out. Frequent visitors to the dining hall was the Security Police Patrols. We called them RAT patrols.
They were always welcome as they came heavily armed with those M-60's etc.
For those of you that remember him ............... CMSgt William Dubious, was the big tall African-American Chief, in charge of the Food Services section. He made sure the troops had good food. With special interest on the 24/7 dining hall.
One of the hard things do observe on a daily basis was seeing those flatbed trailers, stacked 5 coffins high, moving slowly onto the tarmac, making it's way to a C-141 to return our KIA. To this day I still see it and seem not to be able to forget it.
According to a Air Force Sergeants Associations report, TSN was also home to Operation Ranch Hand (Agent Orange) for 9 years. Using that funny looking C-123 aircraft.
WELCOME HOME!
Name: Charles Gray
Apr 03, 2007
Email:
Comments: I am trying to locate a good friend of mine, A1C Mike Lejeune, with the 377th Security Police Squadron, 1967 - 1968.
Mike, sure would be fun to catch up with you again. Anyone that can assist me in this quest, email me at the above address.
Sincerely,
Charles Gray
Name: Jeff Bullington
Apr 01, 2007
Email:
Comments: Hey all, this is Jeff Bullington. I was at Phan Rang AFB in 1968, then transferred to Tan Son Nhut AFB. Did detail for picking up coffee and cakes, as well as driving an Armored Personnel Carrier.
Looking for others that were stationed at Phan Rang from 68-69 and then 69-70 at Tan Son Nhut.
Thanks,
Jeff
Name: Richard Stephenson
Mar 21, 2007
Email:
Comments: Hello,my name is Richard Stephenson. I was stationed at Tan Son Nhut, with the 377th Security Police, from March 1968 until March 1969.
First with Alpha Sector and then Heavy Weapons. What a great site -- sure brings back memories, both good and bad. Nice work. I'll stop back often.
Best of Luck to all,
Richard Stephenson
Name: Douglas Jones
Mar 19, 2007
Email:
Comments: Hello, My name is Doug Jones. Sgt Roger Bertha Mills, 377th Security Police Squadron, was my brother's best friend. I would like to contact anyone who knew Roger, or was at Tan Son Nhut during the TET Offensive, Jan 31, 1968.
I am working on a project, to honor Roger, in our hometown and am looking for additional resources.
Very Respectfully,
Douglas Jones
CTMC, USNR (Retired)
FROM THE WEB MASTER: I will send you an informative email, back channel.
Name: Charles Penley
Mar 12, 2007
Email:
Comments: To all the Sentry Dog handlers, it is with sad emotions, that I let you know of the passing of one of our own, Charles Covert, 377th Air Police Squadron, Oct 1967 - Oct 1968. Charles, passed away Feb 4, 2007.
He was a sector supervisor. Does anyone remember which sector?
Sincerely,
Charles Penley
Name: Charles Penley
Mar 10, 2007
Email:
Comments: To all the Sentry Dog handlers, it is with sad emotions, that I let you know of the passing of one of our own, Leonard Bryant, 377th Air Police Squadron, Jan 1966 - Jan 1967. For awhile, he handled, NEMO."
Leonard passed away on Feb 20, 2007.
Sincerely,
Charles Penley
Name: Jack Griffin
Mar 09, 2007
Email:
Comments: Charles, I recently joined the Tan Son Nhut Association and have enjoyed a trip down memory lane, browsing their website, as well as yours.
When I arrived at TSN, in the fall of 1971, for my assignment with the 12th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, I was greeted by my former AFROTC instructor LTC Ed Petty, who took me on a "tour" of the local area in his jeep. He was a Security Policeman and I had thought he was in the 377th Security Police Squadron but may have been with 7th AF, or in some other staff job.
I do not see any record of him on your website and wonder if you or any of your members recall him.
Many Thanks,
Jack Griffin
Name: Tony Tidwell
Feb 26, 2007
Email:
Comments: I volunteered to be an augmentee in either late 1971 or early 1972. The best I can recall there was no written orders, I was just told where to report. I have looked through all my personal AF papers but I don't recall seeing any written orders for my augmentee training.
Name: Robert Valentine
Feb 26, 2007
Email:
Comments: My name is Bob Valentine. My nickname in "Nam" was Joker.
I just found this site and would like to let you know that I was stationed at Tan Son Nhut, from Feb 13, 1966 thru Dec 19, 1966.
On April 13 I was at the end of the F4C revetments. Pappy Jordan, who was wounded, was right across from me. Both F-4C's in the revetment I was on, were damaged and I remember standing in JP-4 fuel for the rest of the night after the mortar attack.
On Dec 4, 1966, I was on the machine gun bunker with Airman's Currie and Walker. The bunker was at the end of Delta Sector, to which I was assigned, for the entire time I was in Country.
I'd like to hear back from you and I'd like to hear about any information you've been able to gather about this time in Nam.
I'll be happy to share any information I can with you, that you may not already have.
Thanks!
Bob Valentine
Name: Joe Potter
Feb 26, 2007
Email:
Comments: Could you post a question on the site, that asks if anyone remembers if the Security Police Augmentees, were issued orders or just told to report. If orders were issued, does anyone have a copy of of same or posts for May of 1966.
Thanks,
Joe Potter
Name: Joe Pfister
Feb 16, 2007
Email:
Comments: My name is Joe Pfister and I arrived in country on 20 December 1969. I was assigned to the Law Enforcement section and shortly after that, was reassigned to the Embassy (Saigon).
Would like to hear from anyone who was there with me during that time frame. My supervisor was Jim Graf.
Name: LaRue Caraway
Feb 09, 2007
Email:
Comments: Greetings. I am the brother of deceased Harry J. Caraway, who served as a Security Policeman at Tan Son Nhut, (at some point in 1968 1971???). He did not die in Vietnam, he was killed in a tragic homicide where he worked. He left two daughters, who are desperately seeking information about their dad so they will know for lifes' sake. I believe he also served in Chanute and Minot, North Dakota during those years.
Further, there is a Vietnam daughter involved (Lillie) that we would like to try and meet. If this is any help. He had a special friend, that all I remember about him is that his name was all "States" ("Texas" being one of his names).
Any help or directional help would be so heartfelt! You can respond to my email above. I am Rev LaRue Caraway, of Garden City, Alabama.
God Bless all of our Veterans!! (To include me, the Army dude for 20 yrs!)
Thanks,
LaRue Caraway
Name: Maj Robert E. McKeand
Feb 08, 2007
Email:
Comments: Hello, Great site! We are still continuing on with the tradition. USAF SF officer assigned to HQ USAFE A7S ... a long cry from the Air Police Days! Getting ready for retirement after 20 long years.
MAC
Name: Charles Penley,
Feb 03, 2007
Email:
Comments: Bob Harwood, although not in the same context patroling with the 716th MP Bn., we did have an off post K-9 post, not far from the Tan Son Nhut main gate. It was an Army warehouse, manned by the 716th MP's and at night we would be inside the compound and the MP guard, would be at the enterance.
The 716th MP's definately had a good bunch of men. They took care of us, just like one of their own and vice versa.
Charles Penley
Name: Bob Harwood,
Feb 03, 2007
Email:
Comments: I just discovered the web page for the 377th SPS.
I was a member of the 377th from July 1970 to July 1971. I worked "B Flt Law Enforcement," for about 5 months. I then transferred to the joint town patrol with the 716th MP Bn. I believe that this was the first joint town patrol with the 716th. There were less than 10 of us assigned originally.
I enjoy the web page and plan to return to it.
Thanks,
Bob Harwood
Name: Charles Penley,
Jan 31, 2007
Email:
Comments: To all the ladies and gentlemen who was at Tan Son Nhut, Jan 31, 1968 tonight is the 39th Anniversary of TET.
Remembering all those who were KIA and WIA.
Charles Penley
Name: Paula Anderson,
Jan 29, 2007
Email:
URL:
Comments: Paula Anderson of Bothell Washington - visiting to honor my Dad, whom I greatly respect; John Solis who served November 1967 - Dec 1968.
Name: Dana Russell, Jan 27, 2007
Email:
URL:
Comments: I am looking at the web site. I am a retired Chief, that spent time with the army in RVN. I passed through here more than one time.
Dana R. Russell
Name: John Peterson, Jan 04, 2007
Email:
URL:
Comments: I was a member of the 377th Security Police Squadron stationed at Tan Son Nhut from December 1969 until December 1970.
Name: Ron Duckworth, Jan 04, 2007
Email:
URL:
Comments: I served with the 377th Security Police on Tan Son Nhut, during 1967 - 1968. I was there during the TET Offensive. Later, I was sent to Phu Quoc island. I need engagement records and Agent Orange records.
I would appreciate all help, I can receive.
Thanks so much.
FROM THE WEB MASTER: Ron, I have the 377th Security Police Squadron, Jan 31, 1968 TET Offensive, After Action report at URL:
http://www.tsna.org/afteraction/jan311968.html/
The Attack's On Tan Son Nhut are located at URL:
http://webpages.charter.net/cepenley/vcnva/index.html
There is an excellent chart on Agent Orange and the III Corps area. Tan Son Nhut was located in III Corps at URL: http://www.gmasw.com/ao_amts1.htm#Corp3
Name: Andrew Grimm, Jan 04, 2007
Email:
URL:
Comments: Greetings, I was with the 377th Security Police Squadron at TanSonNhut, Vietnam from April 1969 until April 1970.Thank you for this site.
Andrew Grimm
Name: Lionel Jeffers, Jan 02, 2007
Email:
URL:
Comments: When I first contacted this web site, back in September 2002, I asked an open question. If
any of you "apes" (I will always think of you guys as Air Policemen,) had served with a guy by the name of Walter Banks, from
Baltimore.
Walt and I played baseball and football together, graduated high school together, enlisted together (he was my squad leader at Lackland), and served for about six months together at Tan Son Nhut. He fortunately DEROSed
in November 1967, just before Tet.
He was an Air Policeman and I was a photographer with the 460th RTS. I didn't get any replies from the web site, but I just wanted to let you know that he passed away last March 8, 2006.
When I went back to Baltimore for our high school reunion, he was bedridden with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) and I made a concerted effort to visit him. It was really heart wrenching, seeing this once very active young man almost unable to move.
Still if any you newer members had served with him, he no longer among us. He is interred in a Veterans cemetery in suburban Baltimore. He was a very good friend.
Lionel M. Jeffers
Sgt. (E4) USAF, 6470th & 460th RTS
Tan Son Nhut July 4, 1967 - July 3, 1968
FROM THE WEB MASTER: Lionel, even though it has been nearly ten months since Walter passed away, I still send his family and you, my condolences. You are the best type of friend that a person could have. One that will always have him in your heart.
Name: David Darden, Jan 02, 2007
Email:
URL:
Comments: Hello Security Police Comrades. I am glad that the Security Police story is being told. Wearing of the blue beret is very significant for all who have take the creed of the Security Police.
I was in the Air Force Security Police from 1980 to 1994 station at Grand Forks, Osan, Ellsworth, Kunsan and Misawa.
TDY at Clark, Dharhan(Saudi Arabia) and Kuwait.
Having read the web page, once again I feel pride for our top professionals, Security Police.
God speed.
SSgt David Darden
Name: Charles Penley,
Jan 01, 2007
Email:
URL:
At some time in the future, the 377th Security Police Squadron and the Tan Son Nhut Association web pages, will no longer be on the internet. To help keep our heritage alive, a CD has been developed.
With the help of twenty-three (23) individuals and seven months of hard work, the CD is now ready for release.
Some of the various sections are listed below:
1. Over 500 Photographs
2. 49 Stars and Stripes newspaper articles with, TSN by-lines
3. Air Force newspaper with, TSN by-lines
4. 377th Security Police Squadron newsletter
5. Documents
6. Stories
7. Memorial
8. Book Section
9. Building numbered and named
10. Cartoon's
11. Miscellaneous
Price: $ 20.00 total ( S&H is included in that price.)
Contact Charles Penley
Name: Charles Penley, Jan 01, 2007
Email:
URL:
Comments: Happy New Year to one and all !!! We have gotten together many times in 2006. Helped in sharing our memories and helped other veterans, with their search, for answers. We all hope that 2007 will be a better year than 2006.
Stay warm and safe,
Charles Penley
FROM THE WEB MASTER: Today is Jan 01, 2006. I hope that everyone had their wishes granted from the year 2004. However, I am personally wishing each and every one of you a better year in 2005. So what do you want to talk about this year? I would like to hear from all who come to this web page. How can this web page help you better informed?