Editor’s note: The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.

The following is an account from former lieutenant colonel and Marine Corps Veteran James Volkmar who, with the help of Togetherweserved.com, reconnected with his radio operator 44 years after they were both medevaced from the battlefield in Vietnam. To find and reconnect with your own service buddies, visit the TWS Buddy Finder.

Marines in Vietnam in 1969.
Marines at Ga Noi Island, Vietnam in 1969.

I was leading my company, Hotel 2/26, in March 1969, along the river at Ga Noi Island when we were attacked by NVA in a battle that raged for several hours. We had Spooky (Douglas AC-47D,) often referred to as “Puff the Magic Dragon,” sending down from the sky a wall of solid red tracers blowing the hell out of banana trees. As Spooky finished firing in front of my platoon’s perimeter, Lt. Tom Turner came up on the net requesting that he do the same for his platoon’s perimeter. I remember when the first round in front of Tom’s position hit, I said to my radio operator, Cpl. Arthur Phillips, “that was close.” Just then, Turner came up in highly emotional tones shouting, “Check fire! Check fire!” Seems Spooky had shot right down the line of Tom’s platoon, but the “Gods of War” were watching out for those Marines as there was only one Marine with what amounted to a flesh wound.

A moment later, my radio operator and I were suddenly felled by some explosive device that picked me up and launched me nearly 10 feet in the air. I like to think back that I was able to shield my radio operator with my body as I bore the brunt of damage from the shrapnel. In any case, the left side of my body got a healthy peppering of shrapnel and my face might have escaped, but when the blast went off I turned to see what it was. My nose was almost sliced in two.

I struggled up and limped back to my radio operator, who was standing rather rigidly upright clutching his neck with blood streaming between his fingers. I laid him down before the corpsman arrived and took over the triage before a medevac chopper came to take us out. This was the last time we saw each other. I spent nine months in various military hospitals and was then reassigned to the U.S.S. Hornet in Long Beach, California.

I joined Together We Served in January 2006 and quickly found two Marines who were in the same boot camp platoon as me. Together We Served has a feature to record my service memories in a self-interview they call Service Reflections, and my service story was published in their monthly Reflections Newsletter in February 2013. It was just by sheer coincidence that a certain Arthur Phillips had just joined Together We Served and received a copy of this newsletter. He saw my name and my mention of my radio operator injured in the Ga Noi incident, and realized I was referring to him. He reached out to me by phone and I immediately recognized his voice. We had a great conversation and made a promise to meet as soon as we could.

Two men sitting on a couch smiling and talking.
Arthur Phillips (left) and James Volkmar reunite after 44 years.

It turned out ABC News had become aware of our story and arranged for us to travel and meet each other in Washington D.C., which they filmed for a news segment. It was a very special day for both of us and one we will never forget.

Topics in this story

Link Disclaimer

This page includes links to other websites outside our control and jurisdiction. VA is not responsible for the privacy practices or the content of non-VA Web sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policy or terms and conditions of those sites to fully understand what information is collected and how it is used.

Statement of Endorsement

Reference herein to any specific commercial products, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Government, and shall not be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes.

Leave a comment

The comments section is for opinions and feedback on this particular article; this is not a customer support channel. If you are looking for assistance, please visit Ask VA or call 1-800-698-2411. Please, never put personally identifiable information (SSAN, address, phone number, etc.) or protected health information into the form — it will be deleted for your protection.

172 Comments

  1. Robert Almstrom November 10, 2024 at 21:42

    My name is Robert Almstrom joined the Navy in January 1961. Trained at Great Lakes Boot Camp Company 90 for 11 weeks. Boarded the USS Walworth County (LST) 1164 until March of 1964

  2. Timothy Dickey November 9, 2024 at 22:51

    My name is Tim”wonder boy” I was d 2/5 1st cav div. Reading out to those that were there with me that remembers.

  3. Anthony Thompson November 5, 2024 at 11:10

    GRRRRRRRREAT!!!!!

    I, (myself) also reconnected with my former comrade some 30 years afterwards at Los Angeles AFB which pure serendipity given I he heard my voice from several aisles away and come running to where I was in I recognized him as though it was just yesterday.

  4. William (Bill) Blankenship November 5, 2024 at 08:48

    William (Bill) Blankenship I served in Vietnam Sept. 1968-Sept. 1969 with the Big Red 1. 11-B infrantryman. My Lieutenant was Captain Reagan from Memphis, Tn. Who later made Captain and was my company commander. I was a squad leader for several months. Who like to connect with any of my buddies during that time.
    I and three others received the Army Accommodations medal with V device for rescuing a down chopper and it’s crew after a fire fight. The medal was presented to us in a field compound by Colonel Patton of the chopper unit. They flew over after we received our medals with 3 choppers spraying red, and blue smoke.

  5. Paul Marinelli November 5, 2024 at 05:36

    4/16 Inf. Echo Co. Goppingen, Germany, 1988-1990.
    3/502 Inf. Delta Co. Ft. Campbell, Ky, 1990-1992.
    Hope all are well and healthy. Will like to catch-up and hopefully unite.

  6. Bunn November 4, 2024 at 12:32

    USNavy…..SK3 Bunn (Johnny)….served on USS Bordelon DD881 1967-1968

  7. Fred Romero November 4, 2024 at 12:30

    i’m looking for Air Force Security Police that served in Vietnam especially at Cam Rahn Bay

  8. Fred Romero November 4, 2024 at 12:28

    Thanks for the information

    • Stanley R. Brown November 19, 2024 at 09:24

      I’m looking for PO3 Dallas Moyer of NMCB 40 1974-1977. Last duty station was Camp Covington Guam 1976-1977.

  9. Mark Waitkevich November 4, 2024 at 08:15

    My name is Mark Waitkevich and I served in the HSC 307th Med Battalion 82nd Airborne Division, Ft. Bragg, NC from 1982-1983. I am looking for Richard Navarro whom I lost contact with about 15 years ago. His last known state of residence was Arizona.

  10. Anderson November 3, 2024 at 18:38

    Searching for Therlo Ft Sill Oklahoma 1980’s

  11. Bill Hale November 3, 2024 at 16:27

    I was stationed at NAS Agana, Guam in 1952-53 and had a good friend who was in the air force at the same base. It was a MATS base with both navy and air force personnel. We flew on liberty hops together to Clark AFB Philippines. I don’t recall his name off hand but if he or anyone else who remembers me I would enjoy hearing from them.

  12. Louis Payton November 3, 2024 at 13:44

    I’m Louis Payton. Looking for Debbie Nightingale 101 Airborne and John Allen OR tech, 3rd Field Hospital, Saigon.

  13. John shatesky November 3, 2024 at 13:11

    Looking for any 46 engineers. Dump truck platoon or any part of. I was 69/70 long Binh.
    Been trying for years. Have found one or two. One is gone now. On Fb or messenger to connect. . Also check other veteran sites too.
    Have posted emblems and pics on social media vet apps,

  14. Edward J Hartman November 3, 2024 at 09:40

    Ed Hartman Airman 1st class Severed At Laon AFB France 1964 and Chambley AFB France 1965 to 1967

  15. Dane Thomas Jones November 3, 2024 at 09:03

    I am Dane Jones and I am looking for H. Vincent Hensley ( Hillbilly ). I was infantry in Kilo 3/9 and he was with Bravo 1/9. We went through PI together in 68. He was from Harlan County Kentucky.

  16. Sidney Brown November 2, 2024 at 23:30

    My name is Sidney Brown, served 1968 to 1971 in Hanau, Germany 557th Ambulance Company, 31st Medical Group, 7th Medical Brigade.

  17. Richard Strandberg November 2, 2024 at 21:35

    I’m looking for four guys from 1967 to 1968 serving at Phan Rang airbase in the 1882nd Communications Squadron. They are:
    Chuck Rommel
    Richard Powell
    Ed Sarhage
    Denny seifert

    Please give me a call at ***-***-****
    [Editor’s note: Phone number removed. Please do not leave personally identifiable information on this website.]

  18. Jim Slockett November 2, 2024 at 20:30

    Sgt Jim Slockett from Iowa, 5th mechanized infantry. 1968-69. Looking for Jerome Grimes from Oklahoma or others.

  19. Ernest Hartwell November 2, 2024 at 13:33

    My name is Ernest Hartwell I’m looking to locate my buddies. we trained at US Army Training Center, Ft. Jackson, South Carolina. Company C 2nd Battalion 1st Combat Training Brigade in 1976. James H. Crump from California, Dennis C. Higgins from Bethune, South Carolina.

  20. Joe Hess November 2, 2024 at 12:19

    Looking for anyone from HHC 1/505 inf. 82 ABN Div. 70-75.

  21. Richard Eugene Hoke November 2, 2024 at 09:14

    My name is Rick Hoke and I severed with 1st Force Recon and 1st Bn Recon from Dec 69 – Dec 70

  22. Ken Riegel November 2, 2024 at 08:25

    My name is Ken Riegel I’m looking for a friend Ronald Gray Bailey from Canton Ohio served in the Air Force together at McChord AFB

  23. Steve Wick November 2, 2024 at 04:54

    I served in the Marines from 1965 to 1969, boot camp MCRD San Diego and ITR at Camp Pendleton. My duty stations were El Toro MCAS, Ist MAW DA Nang 1966-67, MCRD Parris Island 1967-68 and Marine Barracks USNAS brunswick, Me from 1968-69 I would love to hear from anyone that remembers me

  24. Charles R Lane Jr November 1, 2024 at 21:25

    I’m looking for retired 1stSgt Michael S. Field who I was stationed with at I&I Staff Topsham Maine in the 90’s.

  25. Ray Tauschek November 1, 2024 at 18:26

    Looking for HM1 Bill Marshal. We were stationed on USS EPPING FOREST (MCS-7) homeported in Sasebo, Japan 1963 to 1967.

  26. Tony Marengo November 1, 2024 at 14:26

    Attempting to locate a Corpsman by the name of Andrew Boggie or Bogie that was assigned to H&S Co. 2nd Bn 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division FMF and attached to Fox Company 3rd Plt. would like to him contact me.

  27. EDUARDO MARCHI November 1, 2024 at 13:59

    MY NAME IS EDWIN MARCHI RIVERA, I SERVED IN THE 82ND AIRBORNE DIV. 1970-73 AT FORT BRAGG, N.C.

    IM LOOKING FOR A FRIEND LARRY DOYLE FROM CHICAGO, HE WAS A FANATIC OF PARACHUTING.

    ANY ONE WHO REMEMBER ME, YOU ARE WELCOME TO TEXT ME.
    MY E-MAIL IS MARCCHI WITH TWO CC.

  28. Edward Robert Juratic November 1, 2024 at 13:53

    Outstanding.

    • Looking for Ron Sley or Ken Swim . I severed on Uss Calvert 1956 . My name Erik Kent November 1, 2024 at 15:18

      My name is Erik Kent I am looking for Ron Sley and Ken Swim who served on The uss Calvert APA 32 in 1956.

  29. melanie Yates November 1, 2024 at 12:44

    I am Melanie Yates, basic training Lackland AFB, Tx Aug 83. Looking for Carol Mitchell from Mobil, Alabama

    • David N. Ross November 1, 2024 at 17:57

      Looking for anyone who served with the 39th Combat Engineers in Chu Lai in Vietnam in 1970. Minesweeping, road building and bridge building.

  30. Jeffory McClain November 1, 2024 at 12:30

    Army 1980-1983

  31. Jeff Hudson November 1, 2024 at 10:28

    Looking Todd Archer I served with him on Gunston Hall LSD 44. His Rate was Damage Control. He was from Arizona

  32. Johnny Ellington November 1, 2024 at 09:44

    My name is Johnny Ellington. In Vietnam 1966-1967. Would like to connect to fellow friends

  33. Albert Petrie November 1, 2024 at 07:33

    My name is Albert Petrie and I’m trying to find my good friend Willie Rudd, USAF. We were in Base housing in Perris, California in 1993.

    • Luis Navarro November 1, 2024 at 22:23

      My name is Luis Navarro try to fine Agapeto Rammiz

    • Mike Petrie November 2, 2024 at 15:42

      Hello Albert,
      I never ran into many Petrie’s during my time Army 87-90 & Michigan Army National Guard. You have any relations in Michigan?

  34. Dennis Pasch November 1, 2024 at 07:28

    Looking for my AIRFORCE Viet Nam buddies who served TDY in Udon Thani, from 1966-67 who worked munitions on the SUPER SPAD A1E…

    • Susan Baltazar November 7, 2024 at 20:06

      Sgt Susan Frobish 527th MI Bn Bad Kissingen Germany 1985-89, Schweinfurt, Wurzburg, Wildflecken areas. Now in Florida, West Virginia and Iowa. Loved those Army days! Let’s bring ‘em back!

  35. Artice Norton November 1, 2024 at 07:17

    I would love to hear from some of the guys That I played football with and served with in 1967 and 1968 in Germany.
    I was in the Army and was stationed at Rhein Main Air Base and on the Rockets football team. Bunch of great guys and good friends. I was Army and they were Air Force ,all Americans and great bunch of guys and good football players.

  36. Bob Schwartz ETR2 November 1, 2024 at 07:07

    Bob Schwartz ETR2, USS Northampton CLC1 1957- 1960. Norfolk VA .
    looking for OE Division shipmates. I am now living in California. Is Dan Rhodes , Buffy out there? Lt. Inman?

    • Michael Vinson November 1, 2024 at 20:22

      I looking for Anthony Walker Jr. Was station at Ft. Hood, 4th mmc. We were in Saudi Arabia together, Desert Storm . I’m now in Indianapolis, In

  37. Artice Norton November 1, 2024 at 07:06

    Good Story

    • Jonathan Meeks November 7, 2024 at 16:43

      My name is Joe Meeks I am trying to locate Leroy Newkirk from Milledgeville Georgia we went in the Marine Corp on the buddy plan in 1973 from the job Corp center in Morgan field Kentucky he has a sister name Lillian and his mother worked at the state hospital there

  38. Danny W. Cosby November 1, 2024 at 02:23

    Looking to find my old friend A. Gomes DaSilva from the 820th CES Redhorse Squadron during the mid seventies at Nellis AFB Area 2.

  39. Mike Slyter November 1, 2024 at 01:32

    I was stationed in Tague Korea from January 73’ to August 74’ assigned to 19th Spt Grp, 1st Finance Section D. Looking for any one also there at this time.

  40. Mathew Failauga November 1, 2024 at 00:30

    My name is Mathew Failauga from American Samoa. A Yeoman U.S. Navy Veteran. I’m looking for one of my good buddy that we used to station at Naval Communication Station Western Pacific Guam. His name if I could still remember is: Kevin Smith, a Navy Radioman. He is originally from Dallas Texas.

    • David Bock November 3, 2024 at 13:37

      David Bock, HHB 1st Cavalry Div. 3/69-5/70. Happy to connect with anyone in HHB at that time

  41. Don Homuth November 1, 2024 at 00:28

    Looking for three guys: Richard Holbrook (From CA), Ben Gwyn (from TX) and Dave Nelson (from NJ). Ben and Dave were Chaplain’s assistants. All three from 67-68. All at the 11th Combat Aviation Battalion, Phu Loi AAF.

    • Walter Olsen November 1, 2024 at 17:01

      My name is Walter Olsen what on uss blue ridge 1972,1973 looking for Leone Richardson

  42. Alcide J. Gagne October 31, 2024 at 23:13

    Ben trying to find David LEE Abbott….He was a clerk at Court House Bay…Camp Lejeune in1966 and lived in Indiana at the time He enlisted. WE where Best Friend and communicated for over a year then somehow lost track of each other. If you are still alive David…..STFOMF!!! you will know what it means.

  43. David Owens October 31, 2024 at 22:13

    I would like to hear from anyone who was stationed at Mactan AFB, PI worked in the CBPO 65-66

  44. Rudolph Mann October 31, 2024 at 22:11

    Where is Lawrence Fordham James Reeder James Bouch

  45. Dennis Stricklin October 31, 2024 at 21:35

    I would like to find anyone who was in Heavy Weapons Section on Phan Rang AB, Vietnam in the USAF from May of ‘71-May’72.

  46. Anthony Schmiege M/Sgt,USAF (retired) October 31, 2024 at 18:45

    I am looking to connect with a buddy of mine by the name of John Reidy. When I seen him last he was a S/sgt in the U S Air Force at GRAND Forks AFB , North Dakota. We use to call him Radar.

  47. Roland Nazworth October 31, 2024 at 18:17

    Anybody pick up

  48. Arthur Hughes October 31, 2024 at 17:46

    I am looking for corporal James Jones served in Vietnam 1969 3rd Amtrack battalion from Philadelphia Pa

  49. Alan Robinson October 31, 2024 at 17:32

    My name is Alan Robinson- Looking to make contact with anyone who served 1969-1970 in Gia Nghia – Quang Duc province or Ban Me Thout – or Bu Prang 5th SFG A Camp

  50. James ( Jim) Hemminger RM2 USS Charles Berry DE 1035 October 31, 2024 at 17:31

    I graduated Navy boot camp November 18th 1971, I’m trying to find two of my friends that hat I shared an apartment with after boot camp. First Greg French he was stationed on the John R Perry DE 1034 my sister ship, I was on the USS Charles Berry DE 1035. Second is Rick Hargrove he was stationed on an aircraft carrier I don’t rember which one though, Rick came from San Jose. I would love to reconnect with my ole buddies if possible. Any help would be appreciated.

  51. WALTER G BIBB October 31, 2024 at 16:46

    I’m Walter Bibb, looking for anyone who served in the USAF 36th Civil Engineering Sqd in Bitburg Germany in 1961-1963.

  52. Anthony R. Watson October 31, 2024 at 16:44

    I was in the United States Coast Guard. Looking for those who may remember me on the USGGC Polar Sea (1981-1984).

    Also looking to communicate with those who were stationed on the USCG Loran Station Marcus Island, Japan. I was there from (1980-1981).

  53. George (Butch) Cline October 31, 2024 at 16:42

    I was stationed at Fort Bliss Texas from 1967 to 1969. I would be interested to hear from those that were in the 8th battalion 7th artillery.

  54. Thelma Stewart October 31, 2024 at 16:34

    I would love to be in contact with my friends from Pearl Harbor in 1973-1974. Renee Bodie, Jeanette Pettie, Laura Vancey and all the other that worked up top. I worked in Race Relation Department that was started in 1973. Chief Sumnar, Sr. Chief Braswell, Commander Conn. All people who would like to talk with other Veterans. I am Thelma Darlene (Dee) Stewart USN

  55. Edmund Jackson October 31, 2024 at 16:31

    I would like to connect with SSgt David Sullivan or SSgt Henry Moore, who were stationed at Spangdahlem Air Force Base in the 49th Tactical Fighter Wing from January 1965 until October 1967.

  56. gary wayne gipe October 31, 2024 at 16:26

    I would like to reconnect with Ronnie Eugene Richards
    We served 1966 t0 1968
    Last time I saw him was 1969 in Frederick, Maryland
    Heard he had moved to Florida somewhere around Ft Myers

  57. Albert Hall October 31, 2024 at 16:15

    Albert Hall looking for David Owens formally 10th SF Ft Devin’s. We met while assigned to 97th signal Bn Coleman Brks Germany.

  58. Jeff Bergeron October 31, 2024 at 16:09

    Looking to connect with guys that took Basic Training at Fort Knox D-17-4 April & June 1964 when we were the marching troops shown in the Movie Goldfinger.

  59. Marv Wilson October 31, 2024 at 15:14

    My name is Sgt Marv Wilson and I am Looking For anyone in the 167th Signal Co. Stationed at Dak-To in 1967-1968. –OR – Anyone that knows my

    brother:

    USMC PFC Delvin Kieth Wilson who served in 1969 with C co, 1st bn, 7th Marines, Vietnam. In the Quang Nam Province. He was killed by Friendly Fire on 9/14/2017. Looking for anyone who may be able to clear up how he was killed. Or just hear from a friend of his!
    Thanks GOD Bless you all!

    • William whiten November 2, 2024 at 10:07

      I am looking to find Donnie bell from chatonugh tenn we served to gather in Germany at the Sullivan barracks my name is robert whiten from south carolina

      • Jeff November 5, 2024 at 15:28

        I was a TACP (tactical air control party) with Mike 3/3, 3rd Marine Division, on Vietnam’s DMZ in 1968. We were in H&S Company, Comm Platoon, but attached out to infantry companies on a more or less permanent basis. I was with Mike Company for most of my tour, until they made me TACP Chief. We were led by naval aviation officers who were on temporary duty with 3/3. Most were Marine Corps officers, but a few were US Navy. All of them were cool guys. I would ask them, “Sir, how come they sent you out here to be with us grunts?” And they all had story, almost like they were waiting for us to ask. We learned a lot from those aviation officers. And we picked up the aviation way of saying what we needed. It made things go a lot smoother when calling in close air support. At least I like to think so. One Navy officer in Leatherneck Square told me when we were digging in for the night that the last time he slept outdoors was in his backyard as a kid.

  60. Paul BURGESS October 31, 2024 at 15:10

    Would like to connect with two men I served with in Vietnam. 53rd Signal Battalion Corp II field force.
    Mike Harley
    Rich Czarnecki
    We were together from April 1968 to May 1969

    • LaVaine Lovelace October 31, 2024 at 17:19

      I would like to connect with any of the men I served with in Bamberg, Germany at 1st/75th field artillery Mess Hall Cooks and also the 793 MP unit during 1973 and 1974.

  61. Foster Fuselier October 31, 2024 at 15:10

    I would like to reconnect with LT. Roberts. I was his Radio Operator when we sent to Dia Loc Pass to make the final assault on French bunkers that the VA overran on the morning of February 6, 1969. We were part of the reactionary company for Comm Co. Hq Bn. 1st Mar Div.

    • Doug Hay October 31, 2024 at 23:00

      I’m looking yo connect with anyone who served USMC Bravo CO 2d Recon BN early 1980’s

  62. Steve Fraley October 31, 2024 at 15:09

    I’m looking for a friend that was in the Army 1991 . John Carlisle I think that’s how to spell his name. He was in 29th infantry division in Wiesbaden Germany. He was a cook 94 B. My name is Steve Fraley I was in HHC 3d Coscom at that time . I would like to hear from him. He is probably about 59- 60 yrs old.

  63. Edward L Tardino October 31, 2024 at 15:00

    524 TFS Cannon AFB New Mexico 1968-1972

  64. Ronald Cronholm October 31, 2024 at 14:41

    I would like to find Daniel Hamilton from A Battery 3rd battalion 79th field artillery from ’75 to ’76. I would like to thank him.

  65. Rick October 31, 2024 at 14:21

    Any Kirtland AFB people out there? 1984-1989

  66. Ed Kittle (doc) October 31, 2024 at 13:57

    looking for anyone that was with Company D/26 platoon in 1969,1st. Air Cav.

  67. Roy Fry October 31, 2024 at 13:35

    Looking for Charles (Chuck) __ Witte from our days in the 86th Engr. Btn., 1967-1968, at Bearcat Base, Vietnam.

  68. Joseph Alan Brisson October 31, 2024 at 13:31

    I’m still alive

    • Tommy Prestidge November 2, 2024 at 13:55

      Looking for Eugene Cooper AK1 from Mississippi. We were in VA22 at NAS Lemoore in the 80’s. Also Looking for John Sanderson AME 1 was stationed in VA 27 Lemoore the he transferred to A6 squadron in Washington state. My email is _______@______.com. Thanks. AME1 Prestidge USN/ Ret. [Editor’s note: email address removed. Please do not leave your contact information on this website.]

  69. Jose Lopez October 31, 2024 at 13:10

    Anyone out there in 459th SIG DET Between April 67 and April 68.

  70. Larry (Lyn) Kindred October 31, 2024 at 12:56

    Never had a chance to say goodbye to my brothers in the 25th infantry 1/8 arty.was dusted off (wounded) on feb.13th 1968 while serving the 4/23rd Alpa co. As F.O. Like to hook up with my R.T.O. Paul Gullen.

  71. Billy D Richardson October 31, 2024 at 12:48

    My name is Billy D Richardson, SGT USMC. I was in Vietnam (Quang Tri Province) with 3/9/3 in 1966-1967. I have been looking for anyone from that group with no luck. If anyone knows anything about Johnny Walker from Redlands, California or Dwight Meilke from Wisconsin, please let them know I’m looking for them. If you know anything about either of these men please let me know.

  72. Mike Thomas October 31, 2024 at 12:40

    317th Engineer Battalion 63’ 64

  73. Paul Amos October 31, 2024 at 12:38

    The buddy finder does not ever pick up 12th Combat engineer unit. Why

    • Brian Foster October 31, 2024 at 18:51

      The 12th Combat Engineer Bn is also known as 12th Engineer Bn. We have renamed it as 12th Combat Engineer Battalion for your selection. Enter ‘Combat Engineer’ in the window and then select your unit.

  74. George Matousek October 31, 2024 at 12:20

    Sorry in my previous message the year was suppose to read 1969

    • tom bair October 31, 2024 at 14:28

      Looking for anyone from 2/3 Golf Company. Years 68 .to 69. I joined right after Tet but in Time for Khesan

  75. George Matousek October 31, 2024 at 12:18

    I reconnected with friends from Vietnam after 56 years, served with them in Vietnam in 19768. Semper Fi

  76. Brent Erickson October 31, 2024 at 12:16

    I am looking for the marine I saved from drowning in 1969. Location was in the South China Sea near Hong Ha and Quang Tri. The wind was blowing from the shore and pushing him and his inter tube further out to sea. I grabbed a tire inter tube and swam out to him. I encouraged him to kick with his legs with me to get to shore. We were both so exhausted and I forgot to get his name.

    • Tommy Allen Lockhart October 31, 2024 at 14:36

      Greetings, would like to locate Sgt. Boyd a great friend and guitar player and fellow company members.
      We were stationed in Idar Oberstein, Germany from 1971 to 1972 supporting our troops in Vietnam and around the world with much needed supplies. We were assigned to the 85th Quartermaster Company .

  77. Chuck Gardner October 31, 2024 at 11:57

    Would love to locate my buddy Richard L. Vaughn. Stationed at CCK AB Taiwan June67-July68. TDY to Tuy Hoa RVN, Udorn RTAFB, and Da Nang!

  78. Spec-4 Oscar Esquivel October 31, 2024 at 11:56

    I served at Fort Hood from 1993-1995 2nd Armored Division, 502nd FSB, Alpha and Bravo company. Love to hear from ya!

  79. Dave Adamson October 31, 2024 at 11:55

    Was stationed at Fort Clayton in the Canal Zone in 1965-66. 74th Quartermaster Detachment. Co was Lt. Clifford.

  80. David Carew October 31, 2024 at 11:43

    I am looking for a young Air Force A1C in those days, now Sgt, stationed at Kirknewton Scotland from 1959 to 1963. His name was O. Glen McCowan(McGowan) and he was from TN. Loved them Vols!, Married a Scottish lass named, appropriately, Lorna.

  81. Maximus Gringo October 31, 2024 at 11:41

    I’m a 20 year Navy vet but there is no one I wish to reconnect with. Sad I guess but true. Have a good day.

  82. Buck Holloway October 31, 2024 at 11:41

    Looking for Michael Moore USN. My roommate from the Language Institute in Monterey. 1969&70.

  83. Ricky William Hallert “ aka Remo “ October 31, 2024 at 11:30

    Looking for friends with
    C co 311 MI bn 101st ABN DIV .
    1988 to 1993

  84. Mary McClatchey October 31, 2024 at 10:19

    LT Ella deployed in Bosnia Herzegovina as MI.

  85. larry espA donaldson October 31, 2024 at 10:04

    I was in vietnam from august 69 to august 70 i was with 1/10 cav 4th inf div tank commander i was in pleku and an-khe

    • Gary Topinka November 1, 2024 at 20:18

      Don’t remember you by name but I respect you cause I was with the 4th division 1st of the 10 cav. I can’t remember but I think it was A troop sgt. Topinka

  86. Pat Flynn October 31, 2024 at 10:03

    Looking for sailors assigned to the USS Piedmont during 19680-1971

    • Gerard October 31, 2024 at 12:55

      Stationed at ,6917th SCTY. GP. San Vito Dei Normanni byJune 1969 -Dec.1971.

    • John Zindler October 31, 2024 at 19:50

      Phu Cat Vietnam
      1970. Air Freight Sq.
      Nickname – ziggy

  87. Ted Snyder October 31, 2024 at 09:45

    I think someone can’t subtract. The war has been over for more than 49 years. If they just found each other it’s more than 50 years ago they were in Vietnam.

    • TWS Admin October 31, 2024 at 18:53

      Ted, they found each other in 2013. The article states this. Togetherweserved.com has been in operation since 2003. TWS Admin

  88. Steve Wiley October 31, 2024 at 09:37

    I served as a Radioman aboard the USS Blue Ridge LCC-19 from 1973-75. Looking for any other shipmates that I might have served with. A lot of my buddies have passed away. In memory of Pat McHale, Kevin O’Reilly, Danny Potestio, and Randy “Kelly” Kelahar. RIP. ?

    • Everett Ellis October 31, 2024 at 11:36

      blueridge 75/78 Boiler Tech lot of memorys

  89. Tracy October 31, 2024 at 08:57

    He was a US Marine, not Army.

    • Mike Thomas October 31, 2024 at 12:39

      Who is it you’re referring to?

    • TWS Admin October 31, 2024 at 19:08

      Tracy – Oops the VetResources Newsletter post didn’t get this quite right. James Volkmar is a Marine Veteran as the article clearly states. TWS Admin.

  90. THOMAS Halsey October 31, 2024 at 08:46

    I was in Viet Nam from Nov. 2nd, 1969 to Oct. 21, 1970. I was with 2nd and 17th field artillery. We ended up in Bamnethuot. I was in Service battery that hauled ammo to two of our firing batteries. I would love to meet up with anyone from that unit at that time.

  91. John Richey October 31, 2024 at 08:37

    Looking for my old friend Jim Heck

    • lou johnson October 31, 2024 at 11:02

      there is a jim heck in grass valley ca

    • steve leahy November 1, 2024 at 13:19

      Was he from Massachusetts?

  92. J.K. Sherwood October 31, 2024 at 08:31

    Great story., thank you

  93. Msgt. Frank G. Acuna Retired October 31, 2024 at 08:18

    Awsome story of incredible leadership and courage by all under fire. Semper Fi

  94. Mary L. Roberson October 31, 2024 at 08:14

    This is so AWESOME. I want to sincerely thank you both for your SERVICE!

  95. B.renee1060@gmail.com October 31, 2024 at 07:41

    Thanks for standing up men. God bless your families.

  96. Dan Elmendorf October 31, 2024 at 07:36

    Beautiful story.

  97. john lott October 31, 2024 at 07:28

    kagnew station asmara ethiopia 1966-1967

  98. James Long October 31, 2024 at 07:21

    I have two buddies I would like to connect with if you can help. The first is Michael Black who was my Ranger buddy at Ft. Benning in 1969. We were in the Ranger 5 class of October and November. The other vet is Donald Goff of the same class.

  99. George d teece October 31, 2024 at 04:38

    Us army 1966-1968. 291tc company 519 Battalion

  100. Roland (RJ) Pinder 1973 - 1978 USAF October 31, 2024 at 04:37

    I didn’t know at the time that would look back on my service years with such joy and pride.

  101. William Monge October 31, 2024 at 03:23

    buddy finder doesn’t work.

    • TWS Admin October 31, 2024 at 18:55

      William – let us know the Unit you are wanting to find your buddies in and we’ll let you know how to enter this into the Buddy Finder. Email us at admin@togetherweserved.com. TWS Admin

    • TWS Admin October 31, 2024 at 19:07

      William – it all depends how you enter your Unit – you are prompted to enter a keyword and a listing appears to select from. Let us know your unit by sending us an email to admin@togetherweserved.com and we’ll assist you. TWS Admin

  102. Alan W Burnham October 31, 2024 at 00:51

    USS America, around the world cruise 1971-1972

    • Robert October 31, 2024 at 10:38

      Looking for Jim Graham from Waylon Mi., Served in 381 SMW, WICHITA Ks ’75-’76.

  103. John Lovato October 31, 2024 at 00:09

    USAF K-9, Kunsan Korea, Soesterberg Ab Holland, Kwang Ju Korea, Torrejon A B Spain, Davis Monthan AFB Tucson Az, Dyess AFB Abilene Tex.
    looking for any buddies

    • Nevin Stolte October 31, 2024 at 12:11

      I’m sorry but I can’t help you with your question. But maybe you can help with mine. 1974 the first female dog handler started school at Lackland AFB . Shelia Dugan (Married during training)!She was in the class ahead of us. The second female was in our class Rickie Tompson . The names are right but the spelling may be wrong. Any one know for sure what happened to either one? Please I’ve only heard rumors and neither one was a good outcome. I saw Rickie while walking through the terminal at Anderson in 75. Neither one of us could believe it. Just a chance meeting for sure. I was stationed there and she was “passing through”.

    • Ken Kemper October 31, 2024 at 19:57

      I am certainly happy for these two that they have been able to regain contact.as for me–ZILCH

  104. Michael Phillips October 30, 2024 at 23:53

    Out of the many years I’ve been on TWS, I’ve never found any guys on it from ‘back in the day’. I sure wish the Army had a way of getting in touch instead of a private sector ‘subscription’ ?

    • TWS Admin October 31, 2024 at 19:00

      Michael – the way the Buddy Finder works is that you enter the Units you were in and your years and all other TWS Members who served in the same unit at the same time are presented. Have you entered all your Units and viewed these lists? With 2.3 million members there is a good chance to find someone. You don’t need a subscription to do this and there is no other resource available that can do this to this level. Private sector resources often work better as they are more heavily invested in. TWS Admin

  105. william kokell October 30, 2024 at 23:43

    U>S> Army-1960-1963. 16 Mo. in Korea All above Seoul. Ten Mo. on DMZ.
    I’m 83, I really don’t know if any of the men are still alive! Its 64 years ago, most of the Guys had nick-
    names so I sure remember Faces not to many names.
    William Kokell

  106. Alfred Baumann October 30, 2024 at 23:37

    Steve steel seabe

  107. Jamie S Sledge October 30, 2024 at 23:25

    In Can Tho MACV in 70 with a driver, a Native American, and a Corporal drafted from college Both wonderful comrades. I was removed from Delta with no advance notice. I did not get to say goodbye to anyone.

  108. Michael October 30, 2024 at 23:15

    I guess the VA doesn’t realize a Marine vet is not an Army vet.

    • Al Zale October 31, 2024 at 14:53

      Typical isn’t it? But inexcusable! Just like the VA said they had no record of me when i was still wearing my Army dog tags at the time!!

  109. Richard Bobel October 30, 2024 at 23:11

    You describe Col Volmar as: James Volkmar – Army Veteran. He is a MARINE – you have a picture of him in his dress blues! What is the matter with you?

    • Jim "Gil" Gilchrist October 31, 2024 at 16:29

      Give ’em hell, DevilDog! Ooh-Rah!

    • TWS Admin October 31, 2024 at 19:04

      Richard – Oops the VetResources Newsletter post didn’t get this quite right. James Volkmar is a Marine Veteran as the article clearly states. TWS Admin.

  110. Joe Smart October 30, 2024 at 22:53

    Have been trying for over 50 years to reconnect with soldiers I served with in Vietnam with the 571st Engineer Co. (CBT) 3rd Brigade 9th Infantry Division, from February 8, 1970, to September 1970, when we were deactivated and sent to different units. If anyone who served in that unit when I was assigned there, I would sincerely appreciate hearing from you.

    Sp 5 Joseph Smart

  111. Michael. Beaumaster October 30, 2024 at 22:41

    282 nd Black cats, 1967

    183rd bird dog , 1970

    Diamond head 25th 1967

  112. Michael Drzewiecki October 30, 2024 at 22:20

    Wanting to connect with Army Personnel who served in Cam Rahn Bay, Vietnam with 588th TC Depot Company from 1966 to 1967.

  113. Joel Peterson October 30, 2024 at 21:47

    Seeking Sammy Waxman mortarman with Charlie Company, 1st Bn, 11th Infantry, 1st Bde, 5th Infantry Division, Viet Nam ’68-’69, I Corps. I was his Lieutenant and he claims I saved his life. Lost contact with him 3 years ago I want to reconnect.

  114. Randy Grifford October 30, 2024 at 21:44

    I’d love to vreconnect with some old buddies. Especially Bill Smith from Ohio My name is
    Randy Grifford called (Shorty). 7th infantry division co. A Fort Ord California Please contact me, Bill I have a lot to say God bless

  115. Randy Grifford (Shorty) October 30, 2024 at 21:31

    I love to reconnect with my old buddies, especially Bill Smith from Ohio

  116. Bravo October 30, 2024 at 20:55

    Why did news.va.gov refer to their news subject as someone from the Army? How could you miss that he was a Marine Officer? Look at his Uniform, literally look at the jpg attached to the headline.

    “Read how Army Veteran James Volkmar reconnected with his radio operator 44 years after they were both medevaced from the battlefield in Vietnam.” is the headline-

    LOOK AT HIS UNIFORM. This needs to be corrected, blood was shed that day.

    • TWS Admin October 31, 2024 at 19:04

      Bravo – Oops the Newsletter post didn’t get this quite right. James Volkmar is a Marine Veteran as the article clearly states. TWS Admin.

  117. G.Logan Wilkins October 30, 2024 at 20:13

    It’s amazing how the most important person in our lives can disappear one day after leaving Viet Nam.

  118. Paul Campbell October 30, 2024 at 20:06

    Hey, Robert Anderson, formerly of Rocky Mount, NC, and Radioman on USS Summit County in 1958.
    We’re old vets, and I’d like to talk to you!
    Paul Campbell

  119. Ann Ingram October 30, 2024 at 19:50

    Ii would like to get in touch with Roberta Fedderof – Federoff is the name which I knew her in 1976-1979. We were stationed in Karlsruhe Germany. We were BEST friends, and I’ve lost contact with her over the yeas.

    Thank you for your help!

    Ann Ingram

  120. Joshua Lang October 30, 2024 at 19:47

    SEMPER FIDDELIS?????????

  121. Lee RAINER October 30, 2024 at 19:36

    Outstanding reflection and rejoining of a team.

  122. Charles Martinez October 30, 2024 at 19:20

    Looking for Joe Barrera and Robert Hernandez

  123. Matthews October 30, 2024 at 19:13

    Army 1971 to 1973 in Germany A battery 2/3 Artillery

  124. JOSE LOPEZ October 30, 2024 at 19:12

    IT’S GREAT BEEN ABLE TO RE-CONNECT, AND THAT MOST OF US MADE IT BACK, THANK GOD.

  125. Steven McKinzie October 30, 2024 at 18:57

    Looking for mcb7 Seabees 1965 thru 1968

  126. Michael Mccullough October 30, 2024 at 18:51

    I myself just connected with a buddy of mine.At the forty four years we were m sixty machine gunners with the hunter first airborne division first battalion 327 infantry

  127. Kenrick Morrissey October 30, 2024 at 18:08

    Looking for anyone who served in Alpha Company 13th Signal Battalion when 1st Sergent Grisset was in charge.

    • Walter E. Horn October 31, 2024 at 13:26

      I was in Aco, 37th sig Bn, From 5 September 1968 to 27 April 1972, of course, it was 14th Sig Co at the end. I was mostly in the Hoi An East and West. But had all Generators in the back 40 the last 6 months.

    • Arthur Hernandez November 1, 2024 at 20:12

      Pvt. Morrissey, perhaps giving a month/year, Post/compound, might be like honey and attract someone. Myself, I was assigned to that A Co.
      13th Signal Bn. after it was located at Ft. (Hood) Cavasos, Tx., June/76 to Dec/77. (I left for Cakmkli, Turkey.) 1SG Krostag ran the show then and went to the CAV unit since he was promoted to CSM in late ’77.
      Hope this helps.
      HotelZulu

  128. Seán Dillon October 30, 2024 at 18:06

    So where can veterans go to try to find men they were stationed with, to try to locate them?

    • Michael Phillips October 31, 2024 at 13:06

      TWS (link above ☝?) has a “Buddy Finder”, but speaking from experience, it hasn’t helped me find any with just a ‘free’ level ‘membership’. I sincerely hope you have better luck finding long lost buds ?️

      • TWS Admin November 1, 2024 at 01:00

        Michael – when you complete your service history on your profile page, you are provided a complete list of all other TWS Members who served with you in those units at the same time. Let us know your service branch, rank and years of service at admin@togetherweserved.com and we will be happy to assist you . TWS Admin

        • Michael Phillips November 2, 2024 at 05:14

          I was briefly helping on the site a few years ago, and made our unit insignia available digitally, as well as starting “45th Field Hospital” unit details. I’m visiting the site again now, and I see another member I didn’t see there in the past. I’ll cross my fingers and see if anymore join soon.

        • Michael Phillips November 2, 2024 at 05:36

          “You have reached your monthly limit of Free Profile Views. For Unlimited Profile Views, upgrade to Full Membership and save 50%.”

          I don’t remember that from previous use. Limitation on how many potential service members I can try to find from ‘view’ing profiles??? Another depressing ‘roadblock’

    • William E.(Bill) Hanrahan November 2, 2024 at 00:22

      Would like to connect with Floyd Duke from Lancaster, PA.
      And other sailors who served aboard the USS Leyte 1957 thru 1959. I was a storekeeper.

Comments are closed.

More Stories