QUARTERDECK LOG the - Cimpress (2024)

the QUARTERDECK LOG Membership publication of the Coast Guard Combat Veterans Association. Publishes quarterly —Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Not sold on a subscription basis. The Coast Guard Combat Veterans Association is a Non-Profit Association of Active Duty, Retired, Reserve and Honorably Discharged Former Members of the United States Coast Guard who served in, or provided direct support to, combat situations recognized by an appropriate military award while serving as a member of the United States Coast Guard. Volume 35, Number 3 Fall 2020 REMEMBERING JACK RITTICHIER THE COAST GUARD’S SOLE MIA DURING THE VIETNAM WAR LIEUTENANT JACKCOLUMBUS RITTICHIER, USCGAugust 17, 1933-June 9, 1968 In This Issue:From The PresidentFrom the Vice President Pages Page 2 3 REUNION UPDATEFrom the Secretary/TreasurerAuxiliary News Page Page 4-7 7-8 The CGCVA reunion has beenCover Story Pages 9-13 rescheduled for VirginiaProposed Bylaw Changes Pages 14-16Reunion Announcement Pages 16-19 Beach, VA, June 9-13, 2021Featured Articles Pages 20-29Ships Store Page 30 Information on pages 20-21CGCVA Membership Form Inside back-cover

FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT COAST GUARD COMBAT Shipmates, VETERANS ASSOCIATION ELECTED OFFICERS These are challenging times National President—Stephen Petersen, LM for all of us and for your National Vice President—Terry O’Connell, LM Association. Our reunionNational Secretary/Treasurer—Gary Sherman, LM planners have been working BOARD OF TRUSTEES overtime to assess the current Chairman—PNP Michael Placencia, LM and future COVID-19 situation.1st Term– Bruce Bruni, LM, Floyd Hampton, LM For the safety of all, our2nd Term—William Figone, LM, Gil Benoit, LM leadership has cancelled our previously selected time and ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE* location. This required a serious review of all aspects that National Secretary / Treasurer make a reunion meaningful, but mostly safe. I won’t bore P.O. Box 969 Lansdale, PA 19446 you with the details, but in the final analysis, a new site and Phone: 410-690-8000 date were selected. So, look out sailor town, the Coasties are Email: cgcva@comcast.net coming to Norfolk in June 2021. All new information is Website: www.coastguardcombatvets.org published in this edition of the Log. The reunion planners*Use the Administrative Office for contact with the have done an outstanding job and should be commended. CGCVA on all matters The Association has selected two outstanding individuals THE QUARTERDECK LOG out of many candidates, to co-share Person Of The Year.Publisher — Bruce Bruni, LM bfb203@gmail.com These awards will be conducted in accordance with base Publisher Emeritus—PNP Ed Swift, LM safety policies, which excludes us from making the AUXILIARY OFFICERS presentation. This will be accomplished at a local level by the National President—Javaughn Miller command. Coverage of this event will be in the next issue of National Vice President—Beverly Johnson QD Log. Again, an altered way of doing business. National Secretary / Treasurer—Mimi Placencia Secretary/Treasurer Gary Sherman and the Investment APPOINTED OFFICERS Committee continue to monitor and adjust our finances. ByLaws—Gary Sherman, LM When the final bell tolls for 2020, the members should be Reunion Planners—PNP Michael Placencia, LM Michael Johnson, LM and Bruce Bruni, LM pleased. We are lucky to have such dedicated people in our Membership—PNP Michael Placencia, LM group. Historian—PNP/Founder Paul C. Scotti, LM The Coast Guard has named all sixty-four Fast Response Service Officers—Thomas Huckelberry, LM, Richard Hogan Jr., LM, and Larry Jones, LM Cutters and ten will be in honor of combat veterans. We, as MAA– Russ Weeks an association, will continue our plaque and book Chaplain—Vince Patton, LM presentations to the crew, even if we cannot attend. My Parliamentarian—Michael Placencia, LM sources have told me that the FRC Douglas Goldman, Bronze Nominating Committee—Bill Figone, LM Star Medal recipient, will be commissioned the first part of Cape May Liaison—Thomas Dougherty 2021 and will be assigned to Patrol Force Southwest Asia. MEAP—Edward Bachand, LM, and PNP Ed Swift, LM The Goldman will be one of six to go to the Gulf region. Small Stores—Rich Hogan, Jr. I am anxious to see everyone at the Virginia Beach.COAST GUARD HISTORY CONTRIBUTOR Reunion and I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Dr. William Theisen, Ph.D, CG Historian Year. ~ Steve The Quarterdeck Log 2 Vol 35, No. 3

FROM THE NATIONAL VICE-PRESIDENT While I was in U.S.Navy boot camp, I soon graduate at TRACEN Capelearned that NAVY is an acronym for Never Again May during each graduationVolunteer Yourself. That saying has never been the ceremony. Edward Bachandnorm within our Association. As I approach the represents the Association’sending of my fourth term as the CGCVA National during Parents’ day events atVice President, I’d like to acknowledge the many the USCG Academy. MAAmembers that currently volunteer their time and Russell Weeks maintains laweffort to ensure the continued success of our and order and custody of theassociation. Lucky Bag. When necessary, President Steve Petersen, Secretary and Treasurer Service Advisors Tom Huckleberry and Larry JonesGary Sherman and the entire Board of Trustees; will assist veterans with issues concerning theMichael Placencia, Bruce Bruni, Gil Benoit, William Veterans’ Administration programs.Figone and Butch Hampton ensure the compliance An important topic of this QDL issue is our 2021with the association by-laws and federal non-profit reunion. The reunion is discussed in detailassociation regulations. They maintain the continuity elsewhere, but it is appropriate to acknowledge theof our relationships with the USCG and attend Reunion Committee for their continuing efforts tocountless Coast Guard official and unofficial events. ensure a successful and meaningful event, Bruce The Webmaster of our webside, Richard Ames Bruni, Michael Placencia and Michael Johnson.shares his expertise and time to keep the site active Bruce Bruni has been very active since our lastand current. Richard Hogan, Jr., is the proprietor of reunion. He is an elected Trustee, Reunionthe Ship’s Store; he maintains the inventory and Committeeman and the Editor of this magazineensures applications are quickly fulfilled. Historian which is among the best of its kind. We thank youPaul Scotti has compiled and continues to maintain one and all.the Association’s Historical Record. Thomas Finally, lest we forget the ladies of the CGCVADougherty is our Cape May Training Center Auxiliary. They play a vital role in providing thecoordinator and assists with our recognition of charm and decorum at the reunions that mightnoteworthy Boot Camp graduates. John Seubert otherwise be absent without their involvement.and George Hamilton present the CGCVA ~ Terry O’Connellchallenge coins to the outstanding Physical FitnessHONORING LT JACK RITTICHIER AT THE bust to the right is COAST GUARD MUSEUM what the finished Many Coastie might have heard of LT Jack product will lookRittichier, who was the only Coast Guard MIA in like.the Vietnam War. But what you may not realize is The CGCVAthat he is the only Coast Guard aviator lost in will donate $1,000combat in any war. To commemorate LT for the purchase ofRittichier’s sacrifice and memory, a bronze bust is a wooden pedestalbeing made and funded by the Coast Guard for displaying theAviation Association for placement in the Coast bust at the CoastGuard Academy Museum. The preliminary clay Guard museum. The Quarterdeck Log 3 Vol 35, No. 3

FROM THE NATIONAL SECRETARY / TREASURER REUNION/CONVENTION DURING PAYABLE TO CGCVA! COVID 19: This is just a reminder that Our great Reunion/Convention team of Bruce when you’re mailing in aBruni, Mike Johnson and Mike Placencia are check to the new addressconstantly monitoring the COVID 19 situation and (P O Box 969,preparing for contingencies due to the worldwide Lansdale, PA 19446), pleasepandemic that has plagued this planet for most of make the check payable to2020. The Reunion Committee’s concern, and that CGCVA only. If it’s forof Steve Petersen is for the safety of our members. dues, small stores or Booster,Therefore, after much discussion and concern, it please indicate that on the memo line so it can behas been decided to move the reunion to Virginia applied appropriately! It drives the bank crazyBeach-Norfolk to occur next June 9-13. There is when we get a check payable to “Boosters.”just no easy way to plan anything, as I’m sure all DON’T USE THE OLD P O BOX 777!of you understand, but I think that this is a greatalternative to what initially had been planned in Please note the new address is:New Orleans. We will look at New Orleans for a CGCVA, P O Box 969, Lansdale, PA 19446future reunion, but for now it is full steam ahead Thank you!for Virginia Beach. Semper Paratus, Gary Sherman, NS/T WE NEED MORE VIETNAM VETERANS! ENVOYS WANTED: We currently have 530 Vietnam Veteran We need more CGCVA representatives!members in the CGCVA, which is only a There are events taking place throughout thesmall percent of the 8,000 total U.S. Coast Guard country, and your community may request that themembers who served in Vietnam. CGCVA furnish a member to represent the CGCVA Please call your shipmates and ask them to and the U. S. Coast Guard. If you would beconsider joining the CGCVA. The Quarterdeck Log interested in representing the CGCVA and themagazine, alone, is worth the price of membership USCG at an event in your area, please do theand should bring back memories of times past, and following:is a great source of stories and articles about the Send an email to cgcva@comcast.net.Coast Guard’s participation in this nation’sconflicts. Most of us weren’t given the respect and Please indicate your name, contact informationacknowledgement we deserved upon our return and what area or territory you would be able tofrom Southeast Asia, but when we read about our attend.history, we learned about the proud tradition of the It can be an area, a state or multiple states, whatwartime U. S. Coast Guard as an Armed Service. ever does not require an overnight stay.This makes us proud to have served and hopefullyyour shipmates will benefit from association with Please join the CGCVA Envoy List!the CGCVA. Please call that shipmate who Thank you!probably wants to hear from you, anyway! The Quarterdeck Log 4 Vol 35, No. 3

BOOSTER CLUB AND MEMBERSHIP CRITERIA QUARTERDECK LOG (QDL) BOOSTER CLUBThe printing and postage for the QDL is by far the largest expense item we have and it was determined that ifevery member contributed $10 or more to the QDL Booster Club each year, it would pay for all the expensesthat go into printing and mailing the magazine. Donations can be sent to the Administrative Office (markedin the “memo” section of your check as “QDL Booster Club”) and all those contributing will have theirnames listed in the subsequent magazine. Contribution amounts will not be published but all contributionsare greatly appreciated. We have been told many times that we have the best association magazine out thereand we’d like to keep it that way.Since publication of our last magazine, the following individuals have made donations and become membersof the QDL Booster club: Thanks to all who have become QDL Booster club members so far! All contributions are appreciated! And remember, these contributions are tax deductible as we are a 501(c)19. NEW TO THE QDL BOOSTER CLUB Terry Carnila, Sally Brice-O’Hara, Thomas Frischmann, J. Timothy Riker, Paul C. McCurry, Daniel F. Bothe, Stephen Van Renssealer, Frederic Armstrong, Thomas Dougherty, Franklin Bullock, Herb Cohen, Paul J. Prokop, John J. Fanelli, Robert Weber, Michael A. Johnson IN MEMORY OF—IN HONOR OF Charles Bevel IMO Joyce Bevel, Jack Hanlin IMO Crew of #83408, D-Day June 6, 1944, Robert Heater IMO SN Thomas Sherry, Walt Viglienzone in Honor of Mike Placencia and William Figone, John MacFeat in Honor of USCGC Chase 718 QUARTERDECK LOG BOOSTERS To all Life Members: Please don’t abandon the QDL Boosters. This money is still needed and there is still availability for all members to make contributions of any amount, at any time. We don’t want to see QDL Booster donations cease. We welcome your thoughts and suggestions regarding both the RMC and the QDL Boosters. Our goal is to sustain the Association financially and be able to pass it on to the next generation of Coast Guardsmen who served in combat theatres anywhere in the world. If you have any questions, please call the Administrative Office at 410-690-8000 Thank you! ~ The Officers and Trustees of the Coast Guard Combat Veterans Association The Quarterdeck Log 5 Vol 35, No. 3

WELCOME ABOARD NEW MEMBERSThe above campaign and service medals are authorized for CGCVA membership and are shown from topleft to bottom right:Navy Expeditionary Medal, * China Service Medal * American Campaign Medal (must have at least one5/16 bronze battle star) * Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal * European-African-Middle Eastern CampaignMedal * Korea Service Medal * Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal * Vietnam Service Medal *Southwest Asia Service Medal * Kosovo Campaign Medal *Afghanistan Campaign Medal * IraqCampaign Medal * Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal * Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal *Korea Defense Service Medal. Unfortunately, there will be future world conflicts that will add to this list. NEW MEMBER SHIP/UNIT CONFLICT SPONSOR IN CONFLICT Rand I. Bartlett CGC Campbell / CGC Owasco RVN / DST David P. Bichrest CGC Cook Inlet RVN James B. Brendel, Jr. CGC Dallas GWOT Bruce Bruni James M. Loomis Jolly Green Combat Rescue RVN Tobey W. Morison PSU 301 DST Roc A. St. Martin PSU 308 GWOT Bruce Bruni Andrew M. Thompson CGC Wrangle / CGC Monomoy GWOT Tom Dougherty Diane E. Avery PSU 301 DST Bruce Bruni Robert T. Kelly CGC Dallas RVN Jared A. Frerichs CGC Aquidneck GWOT Gregory P. Hunton PSU 303B DST Samuel O. Williams, Jr. CGC Basswood RVN George C. Obusek CGC Pt Dume RVN CROSSED THE BAR It is with sadness that we take note of the following members who have crossed the bar.Hurbert J. D’Ambrosio, LM WWII; Nick Adams, LM, WWII; Laurence H. Robbins, RVN; Keith A. Barker, RVN; Daniel R. Cinq-Mars, LM, RVN; John W. MacMillan, LM, RVN The Quarterdeck Log 6 Vol 35, No. 3

CROSSED THE BAR We are sad to report the passing of DaveAndrus. David Andrus and brother, Scott, who arepictured on the right, were our bartenders at manyAssociation reunions where they worked their tailsoff. Hanging out at the bar was always fun withthem. Dave will be greatly missed. Editor’s note: Dave and Scott Andrus begantheir association with the CGCVA when they firstattended one of our reunions with their father whowas a member and WWII veteran. Bothveterans, with Dave retiring from the USAF with 23years service as a Senior Master Sargent and Scott aNavy veteran. David Andrus on the left with his brother Scott AUXILIARY NEWS The Quarterdeck Log 7 Vol 35, No. 3

AUXILIARY NEWS Hello esteemed CGCVA veterans, Auxiliary, family, friends and supporters! I hope this letter findsyou and your families safe and well. Wayne and I are so excited as we look forward to our upcomingreunion in Virginia Beach. It is unfortunate that we needed to change the reunion venue, but circ*mstanceswarranted it. We hope that we will be able to return to New Orleans for a future reunion, possibly in 2023. The cities of Virginia Beach, Norfolk and the entire Hampton Roads area offer many opportunities tovisit historic sites like the Yorktown Battlefield, where America won its freedom from Great Britain in1781. Another great historical site is Colonial Williamsburg, with its 17th and 18th century architecture.The waterfront of Virginia Beach offers a relaxing “day at the beach” for those who like the sun and surf.And there are many great golf courses in the area if that is your desired activity. The large CGEX innearby Chesapeake, which is a quick drive from the hotel, offers the shopping opportunity for Coastieslooking for that special CG souvenir, uniform parts and the general CG Exchange shopping experience. To our Auxiliary members, please remember to reach out to Mimi Palencia if you need to bring yourdues up to date. We are also in need of a Nominations Committee Chair. This is a very important duty aswe may have three potential positions available, which are Auxiliary President, Vice President andSecretary. If you’re interested or have questions, please email me or call me as soon as possibleat jallsmiller0@gmail.com or 619-328-8576. REUNION 2021 will be a challenging year with the COVID-19 situation. And, as you know, ourSilent Auction and your donated items for it will be more important than ever. Remember, all funds raisedby the Silent Auction go to the CGCVA operating fund. Silent Auction Item Registration FormDescription of Item:_____________________________________________________________________Name :_______________________________________ Email Address:____________________________Value:__________________________ Minimum Bid:____________________________Please email this form to me, Javaughn Miller, at: jallsmiller0@gmail.com (the 0 is a zero) or snailmail to: 109 Bent Oak Cove, Marble Falls, TX 78654. Please ensure you receive an email confirmationfrom me confirming I received your donation information. We will provide an address for shipping theauction item(s) in the Winter QDL and on the CGCVA webpage if you are unable to transport themyourself.With respect, admiration and appreciation for all that each of you do and have done,Javaughn The Quarterdeck Log 8 Vol 35, No. 3

COVER STORY Golden Flashes-Two Days in the Life scholarship to the University of Kentucky, coached by Paul “Bear” Bryant who would go on to fame at of an American Hero the University of Alabama. The players in the By LCDR (Ret.) James Loomis Southeastern Conference (SEC) were of a caliber U.S. Coast Guard, CGCVA Jack had never seen before. He saw no future in the PART ONE SEC so he returned home to attend Kent State University (KSU) on a full athletic scholarship. HOMECOMING Jack did well there, academically, athletically and OCTOBER 30, 1954 socially. His best year athletically was 1954, his Autumn begins in Martins Ferry, Ohio junior year when his team, the “Golden Flashes,” by James Wright was enjoying one of its best seasons ever. In the Shreve High School football stadium, October 30, 1954, was homecoming day for I think of men nursing long beers in Tiltonsville. KSU and there was something for everyone, be it catching up with former classmates, roommates, And gray faces of steelworkers in the blast furnace of Benwood, teammates, and professors; a judging of the best decorated dorms, sorority and frat houses, and the And the ruptured night watchman of Wheeling Steel, day culminating with an SRO soiree, dancing the Dreaming of heroes. night away to the music of the great Jazz band of All the proud fathers are ashamed to go home, the day, “Woody Herman and his Herd.” Oh, and Their women clucked like starved pullets, did I tell you there was a football game to be played? Although Jack Rittichier loved the campus Dying for love. scene and was normally a more than willing Therefore, their sons grew suicidally beautiful participant in the revelry, make no mistake; this day at the beginning of October, was first and foremost about football! Jack, whose And gallop terribly against each other's bodies. teammates called him “Cornell” because he was “polite enough to be an Ivy Leaguer,” knew this Jack Rittichier's formative years were in wasn't just anyCoventry, Ohio, an Akron bedroom community game; it was one ofwhere lived many automotive tire industry workers, the biggest gamesincluding both of his parents. He was a star athlete in the school'sat Coventry High School, in track where he claimed history with a posttwo team all-time records, and in football where he season bowl gamemade the All-City (of Akron) team. He was well at stake whichliked and played well with others. Coventry was would be a first inlocated in the Portage Lakes District, so named for KSU history! Whatit* trail of disconnected lakes stretching northward also made home-to Lake Erie where indigenous native Americans coming special forwould canoe (much of it requiring “portage”) to the team was theCleveland to trade. He was a good student and was opportunity to playaccepted at Princeton where he had to decline before thousands ofbecause Ivy League Schools did not offer athletic LT Jack Columbus friends, family andscholarships, accepting instead a football Rittichier, USCG alumni. The Quarterdeck Log 9 Vol 35, No. 3

COVER STORY This, the leading KSU rushing team of all time, The game was a real nail-biter as the leadwas special. The running game was still in vogue seesawed throughout most of the game, with Jackin much of Ohio, or as legendary Ohio State coach scoring one of the team's two first-half touchdowns.Woody Hayes called it, “three yards and a cloud of The Flashes went into the halftime locker roomdust.” As a starting running back, Jack was an holding a 14-0 advantage, but BGSU fought backintegral part of this offense, averaging an excellent using that vaunted aerial attack to close the gap.8.9 yards per carry, good enough to gain him all Things looked grim when the Falcons scored on aMAC second team honors, this in a conference touchdown pass to go up by four with only minutesloaded with running backs, several of whom went left on the clock. Bill Bradshaw, the BGSU punter,on to play professional football. Their opponents, was the leading punter in the country for twoforty year arch rival Bowling Green State consecutive seasons, showed why when he kicked aUniversity (BGSU) who defied the philosophy, as booming punt that pinned the Flashes back on theirone wag put it, “the forward pass is illegal in the own 10 yard line with the clock winding down. Butstate of Ohio,” had a different look to their game lightning struck on KSU's first play fromplan. In keeping with their nickname, the Falcons scrimmage. Jack took a pitchout, circled right end,had a very good passing game, a contrast virtually then followed two crushing blocks to break into theguaranteeing an interesting matchup. All that was open and raced the length of the field for a gameleft was to play the game; and play it they did! winning 90-yard touchdown run. This story would have had a perfect ending had the Flashes won their bowl game. Although they acquitted themselves well, but victory was not to be as they fell to the University of Delaware's strong passing game led by gifted quarterback, Don Miller. Miller would go on to become the winningest coach in New England college history as the head coach for Trinity University in Hartford, later the long-time quarterback coach at the Coast Guard Academy. Here's another interesting tidbit - Miller threw only two interceptions in 1954, one of them was by (guess who?) PART TWO JUNE 9, 1968 SCRAMBLE THE JOLLYS! Jack graduated from KSU in 1956 with an Air Force ROTC commission and his new bride, Carol, also a former Kent State student. So, it was off to flight training and ultimate qualification in the B-47, the Strategic Air Command's (SAC) long Jack (left) and the Mopheads range six jet engine bomber. This was during the height of the “cold war” with its ever-present threat of nuclear war with the Soviet Union. It would be The Quarterdeck Log 10 Vol 35, No. 3

COVER STORYan understatement to say that he didn't enjoy his six options, he heard about the USCG Directyears of flying nuclear weapons for SAC. The Commission program. The thought of saving livesthought of having to drop his was anathema to him, appealed to him. He wanted to fly helicopters butbut he told his brother on more than one occasion his interview board had other thoughts; his 5,000that if ordered to do so he would comply but he was hour “heavy iron” time making him a primenot sure he would be able to live with himself had candidate for the burgeoning C-130 fleet, but Jackhe done so. Fortunately, neither he nor the countless was adamant and convincing. And so he wasnumber of fellow pilots ever received those orders. selected for helicopters, probably the lowest timeBut the B-47 was a “widowmaker” in its own right helo pilot ever accepted in the Direct Commissionwith one of the worst safety records of any military Aviator program. Being a neophyte helicopter pilot,aircraft ever flown, with 203 crashes taking more he was first sent to Pensacola to complete basicthan 450 pilots and bombardiers to early graves, helicopter training; then it was off to Elizabeth Citythis in peacetime. for his first USCG duty assignment. By all accounts, Jack loved the Coast Guard and its After Jack left the Air Force in 1962, he tried his lifesaving mission. He quickly accumulated a lot ofhand at civilian flying, first flying a crop duster that flying time, much of it during a temporaryended abruptly when he lost a battle with somepowerlines, escaping unharmed but totaling hisaircraft. Next, his father-in-law helped himpurchase a small helicopter which proved to be abad investment. Giving rides at county fairs was notwhat he had anticipated. While considering job HH-3E “Jolly Green” Rescue Helicopter assignment to CGAS New Orleans for flood relief in the wake of hurricane Betsy. His next tour was AIRSTA Detroit, an assignment he enjoyed, it being close to his hometown. He was awarded his first Air Medal there for a night flight through heavy snow to assist a sinking tanker in Lake Huron. In 1967, Jack got wind of a pilot exchange program with USAF in which USCG aviators LT Jack Rittichier (left) with LT Lance would fly HH-3E combat rescue helicopters in Eagan and LCDR Lonnie Mixon with Vietnam and returning USAF pilots would be the Jolly Green assigned to CG Air Stations. He requested this The Quarterdeck Log 11 Vol 35, No. 3

COVER STORYassignment and he, LCDR Lonnie Mixon, and LT aircraft pre-flights, followedLance Eagan were the first three selected. by crew, weather and intel briefings. On a routine day, A year of intensive training followed, including JG23 would have an easierCH-3 qualification, HH-3E “Jolly Green” combat day, but this was hardly goingcrew training, and combat and jungle survival to be the case on this day.schools. Then it was off to the 37th ARRS inDanang, Vietnam, where in short order they were Meanwhile, at the Chu Laidesignated Rescue Crew Commanders (RCC) and USMC airbase 55 miles southput to work; their primary mission the recovery of of Danang, two USMCshot down U.S. airmen anywhere in the southeast aviators got similar earlyAsia theater. LT Rittichier had an immediate wakeups for a fragged 1st LT Walterimpact, participating in several demanding rescues, mission in their A-4 jets, Roy Schmidt, Jr.earning three Distinguished Flying Crosses in Hellborne 215 and 216, tobarely over a month of flying. provide close air support for ground forces operating in the A Shau Valley, 45 miles west of June 9, 1968, was hot in Vietnam in more ways Danang, one of the most heavily North Vietnamesethan one. Following North Vietnam's (NVA) Army (NVA) defended pieces of real estate alongbloody spring Tet offensive, the ground and air the Ho Chi Minh Trail, the critical supply linefighting was intense. This day marked a signal stretching from North Vietnam, through theevent in CG aviation history. The crews of Jolly mountains of Laos, into South Vietnam andGreen 23 (JG23) with Rittichier the assigned RCC, Cambodia. The assigned flight leader, who was aas “Hi Bird,” whose primary responsibility would Captain with 200 combat missions under his belt, ceded his flight leader position to his wingman, a decision that would prove critical, but within his authority to do. Walter Roy Schmidt, the young First Lieutenant had recently flown his 100 th combat mission, qualifying him to assume the flight leader position. The beautiful and rugged A Shau Valleybe to come to the assistance of JG22, the “Lo Bird,”or primary rescue aircraft, should it be required.The crews were the designated alert crews for theday. After an Zero dark hundred wakeup, the ready Coordinates of the Rittichier crash site:crews proceeded to carry out the ritual duties of 162144N 1070534E YD235100 The Quarterdeck Log 12 Vol 35, No. 3

COVER STORY Their brief flight over Danang then longer had sufficient fuel to make another attempt.westward to A Shau was uneventful. Upon arriving The survivor was either unconscious or dead but theon scene, Hellborne 215 prepared for his bombing NVA made no move to capture him, setting intorun as Hellborne 216 orbited at altitude. 215 play a helicopter trap. LT Rittichier agreed to makecommenced his bombing run, but upon reaching his an attempt, but was driven off by intensetarget his bombs had failed to release. The pilot had groundfire. He retreated to a safe area while fightertwo options, to try another bombing run or RTB to jets pounded the area. Rittichier agreed to makeChu Lai, no questions asked. He opted for the another attempt, led in by USMC gunships. Thisformer. This time his bombs released but he time he was calling out the door just as a Forwardreceived extremely intense groundfire and was Air Controller (FAC) yelled to Jack that his aircraftforced to eject at low altitude and fast speed directly was on fire and attempted to direct him to a nearbyabove his target, a recipe for disaster. He hadn't clearing. Jack announced that he was headed for thebeen able to exit the immediate area, nor climb to a clearing. The rotor on his crippled helicoptersafer altitude for his ejection. He suffered severe slowed to a near stop and JG23 crashed in a ball ofinjuries, including a badly broken leg and arm. His flame killing him instantly.rescue would obviously require the In 2002, a combined team from the Joint Taskassistance of the Jolly 23 PJ, further complicating Force-Full Accounting and the U.S. Army’s Centralthe rescue. The HC-130P King, the airborne Identification Laboratory, Hawaii located the crashcommand post, and helicopter re-fueler was alerted scene of Jolly Green 23. At the site, remains wereand the command to SCRAMBLE THE JOLLYS! recovered and tests identified crew members…as passed to the Joint Rescue Coordination Rittichier, Yeend, Holden and Locker in FebruaryCenter in Saigon which was quickly passed on to 2003. No found records indicate Roy Schmidt’s the operations desk remains were ever recovered. Jack Columbus at the 37th ARRS, Rittichier, Aviator 997, was one of seven Coast and so they were. Guard service members to die in Southeast Asia. He A PJ was on the was buried with full honors at Arlington National ramp helping Jack Cemetery on October 6, 2003. put on his parachute and survival vest. He said that Jack had a big grin on his face, going off to do what he loved LT Rittichier funeral at to do best. Arlington National Cemetery (USCG Photo) JG22 made several rescueattempts, being driven off by witheringgroundfire. After additional strikes were put in by LT Rittichier’s personal awards include a SilverAir Force fighters and USMC helicopters, it was Star, three Distinguished Flying Crosses, Purpledecided to make another attempt, but JG22, having Heart and two Air Medals.removed his drop tanks for his previous attempt, no The Quarterdeck Log 13 Vol 35, No. 3

ASSOCIATION ADMINISTRATIVE BUSINESSPROPOSED BYLAWS AMENDMENT a. Those persons considered, by the National FOR THE 2021 BUSINESS MEETING President, to be supporters of the association by their actions or financial support, but are ineligible for Regular, Life, Associate orBYLAWS CHANGE #1 Auxiliary membership, can be nominated for affiliation as a Friend of the Association.SUBJECT: FRIEND OF THE ASSOCIATION b. Those persons considered as Friends of theMore frequently lately, we have received requests Association will be placed on the Quarterdeckfrom individuals and/or family members to have Log mailing list, but will have no voting rightssome affiliation with the CGCVA. In those cases in the Association’s business, and theirthe individual is not eligible for Regular, Life or affiliation will remain in affect with payment ofAssociate membership, and is not a spouse of a biennial dues, equal to the dues paid byCGCVA member, eligible for CGCVA Auxiliary Regular and Associate membership.membership. However, they have demonstrated, bytheir actions, or by their willingness to provide c. The National President shall be limited to afinancial support to the Association, that they maximum number of appointments to five (5)deserve some official status. per year. Any appointments above the minimum must be approved by the Board ofThe Association’s Microsoft Access software was Trustees in any one year.set up by previous members Ed Burke, BakerHerbert and many others and a “FRIEND” category d. Friend of the Association affiliation can bewas included in the Status options, but there is no revoked at the discretion of the Nationalmention of this category in the ByLaws. The President, at any time.“Friend” category has been used by past nationalpresidents to designate an individual as a “Friend ofthe Association” but that selection has been totally BYLAWS CHANGE #2discretionary on the part of the National President. The Association currently has no provision to electIt is therefore recommended that we formalize the or re-elect an Association officer or trustee unlesscategory of “Friend of the Association” so that we they are present at the reunion/convention businesscan reward supporters with an official affiliation meeting. We are all getting older and the likelihoodstatus and benefit from additional dues revenue. of an officer or trustee not being able to attend (forThis status would be non-voting and dues paying, at example, due to medical reasons or personal familythe same level as Regular and Associate crises, or for whatever reason) could result in anmembership. Appointments to this category should absence of that position, or someone else appointedhave an annual limitation of no more than 5-10 for a 2 year term, when the current office holder isappointments per year. ready, willing and will be able to continue their duties in a few months. Having another memberThe bylaws change would be as follows: appointed, as a replacement, could be a detriment to“ARTICLE II – Membership the Association.6. Friend of the Association: Non-Voting, Friend Also, if there are no members present at theof the Association is a non-membership affiliation business meeting, who wish to serve in the capacityand is established for: of officer or trustee, having that position vacant The Quarterdeck Log 14 Vol 35, No. 3

ASSOCIATION ADMINISTRATIVE BUSINESScould prevent the Association from functioning. If It is believed that consideration to havethere is a Trustee position vacant, the Board of grandchildren included, was just not anticipated atTrustees would have an even number of members that time.and no tie breaking 5th vote. It would be a benefit to the Association to haveSomeone serving as National President or National grandchildren of fallen veterans included asVice President, who served a 2 year term of office Associate Members, paying dues and receiving theand sincerely wishes to continue in that position, Quarterdeck Log in their remembrance of theirbut cannot attend for medical or personal reasons, relative loss in combat. With that the belowshould be allowed to be re-elected and continue amendment is offered:their service to the Association. ARTICLE II – MembershipThe purpose of this proposed bylaw change is to Change bylaw to read:allow the continuation of Association business bygiving the National President (or the National Vice “c. A spouse, child, grandchild or orphan of aPresident, in his absence) the authority to appoint deceased Coast Guard Combat Veteran who diedsomeone who is willing to serve, but not present, to prior to the founding of the Association may bebe elected by the membership at the business eligible for Associate Membership.”meeting.Under Article I – Organization, Para. 4, Term of ADMINISTRATIVE BYLAWS CHANGES:Office, the following change should be added:In the temporary absence of an officer or trustee not BYLAWS CHANGE #4present at the biennial convention, the NationalPresident (or, in his absence, the National Vice Article II is titled “Membership”. This title shouldPresident) shall nominate the existing office holder be broadened and should include Members, Associ-who is willing to serve but unable to attend, due to ate Members, Friends (Affiliates).temporary illness or family crisis, (or other Change bylaw to read:unforeseen circ*mstances). The Membershippresent at the Business Meeting can consider this ARTICLE II – Membershipnomination, or other nominations, equally in Add: “/Affiliation” after Membership, to readelecting the officers and trustees. If this candidate ARTICLE II – Membership/Affiliationfor election or re-election is elected by the majoritymembership, they may be sworn into officeremotely or sign an affidavit swearing their oath of BYLAWS CHANGE #5office. Currently the Board of Trustees provides authority for all expenditures of $2,000.00 or more. This should be changed to $2,000.01 or more to allowBYLAWS CHANGE #3 the National President to spend $2,000.00, at hisOur current Bylaws permit Associate membership discretion. As the current bylaw states, theby children of a deceased Coast Guardsman, whose National President only has discretion to spendlife was taken prior to July 1985, the formation of $1,999.99, which would be an embarrassingthe Association. amount to send as a donation. The Quarterdeck Log 15 Vol 35, No. 3

ASSOCIATION ADMINISTRATIVE BUSINESSThe proposed change would be as follows: “Member” shall be defined as voting eligible members, consisting of Regular and LifeARTICLE IV – Officers Members.4. Board of Trustees “Members in good standing” shall be defined as Approve expenditures of Two Thousand and Regular Members, whose dues are current, 01/100s ($2,000.01) or more. and all Life Members.BYLAWS CHANGE #6 BYLAWS CHANGE #7The current Bylaws refers to “Regular Members” Under Article I – Organization, Para. 4, Term ofbut that term is not defined in the Bylaws. For Office, indicates that officers and appointees are toexample, the Bylaws indicates that the Board of be sworn in at the awards banquet. In the past 12Trustees shall be made up of four (4) “Regular years we have not sworn in most appointees. In theMembers”. It should be indicated in the Bylaws that case where a new National President is elected, theany reference to “Regular Membership” should appointees have not been appointed at that time.consist of both periodic Dues paying members and The Bylaws should read, “officers and trusteesLife Members. are to be sworn in at the awards banquet”.The proposed change would be as follows:ARTICLE II – MEMBERSHIP Add to the end of Paragraph 1 the following: REUNION—JUNE 9 TO 13, 2021 2021 CGCVA REUNION Beach—Norfolk Hotel and Conference Center. Located at 5655 Greenwich Rd, Virginia Beach, The CGCVA reunion committee has moved the VA, every close to the I-64 and I-264 interchange.2021 reunion to the Holiday Inn Virginia Beach- A free shuttle service from the Norfolk AirportNorfolk Hotel and Conference Center. It was a (ORF) is also provided.necessary move because of COVID concerns but wethink it will offer an opportunity for many more to There is free parking for 420 cars as well asattend that might not have done so in New space for buses and RVs. The hotel has 175 doubleOrleans. Working with Armed Forces Reunion, Inc. occupancy rooms with queen beds and 60 rooms(AFRI) allowed for a quick selection process that with king size beds. The cost per night is $129.00might have taken weeks to accomplish. As with the plus tax. All rooms are non-smoking, but smoking2019 reunion in Charleston, the 2021 reunion is permitted outside. Some first floor rooms offerpromises to another successful event. doors to the outside. Check out the hotel website at: www.HIVABeachNorfolk.com. We will be staying at the Holiday Inn Virginia The Quarterdeck Log 16 Vol 35, No. 3

2021 REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH — JUNE 9 TO 13, 2021 For those who need mobility equipment whileattending the reunion, they can be rented throughMed Emporium located at 192 Hilltop East S.C.,Virginia Beach, VA 23451, phone 757-428-0787. The hotel is four miles away from the largeTown Center shopping area and a fifteen minutedrive from the Virginia Beach oceanfront.Downtown Norfolk can be reached via the TideLight Rail system which is located just a fiveminute walk from the hotel, but they will provide Colonial Williamsburg is about an hour’s driveshuttle service to the rail line stop if the shuttle is to the west along I-64 with historic Yorktown aboutavailable. There is also free parking at the Light the same distance away. The large Coast GuardRail stop. Cost of the rail is $1.75 each way saving Exchange in Chesapeake is only a seven mile driveon the cost for downtown parking. In downtown eastward on I-64 and is located across from theNorfolk you will find the museum battleship, USS Greenbrier Mall.WISCONSIN and Norfolk's iconic WatersideFestival Marketplace allows visitors to enjoy thebest national, regional, and local restaurants andoffers live music, festivals, and more in anatmosphere that integrates Downtown with itsglorious waterfront. The Norfolk Premium Outletsare also located a mere five miles from the hotel. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk has many bars, restaurants, shops and beach for those who will spend their time there. Make sure that you check out the Surf and Rescue Museum located 2401 Atlantic Ave which is a former U.S. Lifesaving Service building. See the informative weblink for the Boardwalk activity at: There are several area golf courses close by and www.visitvirginiabeach.com.the large Top Golf multi deck driving range justdown the road from the hotel. “Top Golf features102 bays over 3 floors, an amazing rooftop terrace,lively bars and a golf game concept that is sure toblow you away!” The Quarterdeck Log 17 Vol 35, No. 3

2021 REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH — JUNE 9 TO 13, 2021 On page 19 is the CGCVA reunion registration form. You can either use the form to register or you can register via the CGCVA webpage at: www.coastguardcombatvets.org. We need your attendance to make the reunion successful. We look forward to seeing you there. Additional local information on things to do will follow in the Winter edition of the QDL. For those who are military aviation buffs, theVirginia Military Aviation Museum is only 17 miles ~ The Reunion Committee Mike Placencia, Mikeaway on Princess Anne Road in Pungo, VA, and is Johnson and Bruce Bruniopen 9:00am to 5:00pm, daily. With the world’slargest collection of classic fighters, bombers,  Wednesday, June 9, for the check-in andtrainers and other aircraft dating from WWI and opening ceremony;WWII, from the nations of the U.S., Great Britain,  Thursday, June 10, is a free day;Russia, Germany, Japan and others, you will not be  Friday, June 11, hosts the Business Luncheondisappointed in your visit. See the museum’s and Auxiliary Luncheon;website and be sure to watch their short two minutevideo at: https://militaryaviationmuseum.org.  Saturday evening, June 12, is the Awards Banquet;  Sunday, June 13, is Checkout.  The hotel is offering the reduced rate for Sunday, June 6 through June 13, should you want to arrive earlier. Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Center Hotel reservations can be made directly throughthe hotel by either using their direct number757-499-4400 or through the hotel’s weblink whichcan be found on the CGCVA website. The groupreservation code is CGC. This year we have changed the schedule ofevents to commence midweek and end on Sunday. Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Center Lobby The Quarterdeck Log 18 Vol 35, No. 3

VIRGINIA BEACH REUNION JUNE 9-13, 2021 – CGCVA REGISTRATION FORMThe 2021 CVCGA reunion is scheduled for June 9-13, 2021 and will be held at the Holiday Inn, Virginia Beach-Norfolk Hotel &Conference Center located at 5655 Greenwich Rd, Virginia Beach, VA. Listed below are all reunion registration and meal costs. Please enterhow many are participating in each event & total the amount. If paying by check or money order, send the amount payable to ARMED FORCESREUNION NC. Your cancelled check will serve as your confirmation. There is a 3.5% service fee if paying online through the AFRI websitelink at www.afr-reg.com/CGCVA2021 ALL EVENT REGISTRATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED ON OR BEFORE MAY 7, 2021ALL HOTEL ROOM RESERVATIONS ARE MADE ONLINE OR VIA TELEPHONE The hotel booking site isauto-filled with dates June 6 to 13. Make sure you reserve only the nights for which you will be staying.Group Code: CGC. For the Holliday Inn direct number: 757-499-4400. The CGCVA website offers the online hotel reservationlink.Mail registration to: Armed Forces Reunion, Inc. OFFICE USE ONLY 322 Madison Mews, Norfolk, VA 23510 Check# _________________ Date Received _______________ ATT: CGCVA Inputted ___________________ Nametag Completed ____________ CUT-OFF DATE IS MAY 7, 2021 ALL BUSINESS AND AUXILIARY LUNCHEON MEALS ARE $30.00 PER PLATE Wednesday Business Luncheon (CGCVA Members Only) Wednesday Auxiliary & Friendship Luncheon (Open to all) Choose entrée’ listed below & indicate number at right Choose entrée’ listed below & indicate number at right Entrée (X) # Meals = Total Entrée (X) # Meals = TotalAmountGrilled Vegetable Napoleon Grilled Vegetable Napoleon Chicken Marsala Chicken Marsala Eggplant Parmesan Eggplant Parmesan SATURDAY AWARDS BANQUET DINNER – OPEN TO EVERYONE Choose entrée’ listed below & indicate number of meals desired at right & then total the amount Entrée Cost of meal/PP (X) # of Meals = Sub-Total Pan Seared Salmon $55.00 Chicken Boursin $55.00 Sliced Sirloin of Oven Roast Beef $55.00 Egg Parmesan $55.00 AFRI MANDATORY REGISTRATION FEE PER PERSON Includes Hospitality Room and $40.00 # OF PEOPLE Administrative Expenses Total Amount Payable to ARMED FORCES REUNION, INC. DO NOT STAPLE OR TAPE YOUR PAYMENT TO THIS FORM Total Amount $PLEASE PRINT __________NAME (FOR NAMETAGS) _______________________________________________________ WHEELCHAIR USE Y _____ N ____SPOUSE/GUEST NAME __________________________________________________________WHEELCHAIR USE Y _____ N ____STREET ADDRESS __________________________________________________________________________________________CITY, STATE, ZIP __________________________________________________________________ PHONE (_____) ___________VESSEL/UNIT ____________________________________________________ ARRIVAL DATE _______ DEPARTURE DATE_______DISABILITY / DIETARY / RESTRICTIONS _________________________________________________________________________EMERGENCY CONTACT ____________________________________________________________ PHONE (_____) ____________ARE YOU STAYING AT THE HOTEL? Y ____ N ____ ARE YOU FLYING? _______ DRIVING? ________ R/V? __________________ For refunds and cancellations, please refer to our policies outlined at the bottom of the reunion program. CANCELLATIONS WILL ONLY BE TAKEN MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 9:00AM-5:00PM EASTERN TIME (excluding holidays) Call (757) 635-6401 to cancel reunion activities and obtain your cancellation code

FEATURED ARTICLES AMERICAN HEALER trauma war brings. I learned a lot from him and would put that knowledge to use many times A Coast Guard Corpsman in Vietnam 50 years tonight. Our 26-foot motor surfboat was hanging ago - by Joseph White, HMC, USCG (ret) over the side waiting for the word to be lowered. It Reprinted from the Long Blue Line was pitch dark, but in the distance, you could see What a way to fight a war—kill all the kids and fires burning in the village—they must be catchingthe next day is routine as usual. ~ Chief Hospital hell. We had just gotten underway when two U.S.Corpsman Joseph “Doc” White, 1970 Air Force jets came over our boat, which was [Editor’s note: This essay is transcribed from the painted gray, and shined a bright strobe on us. I wasoriginal article written by Chief White with only scared as hell of Air Force planes; I knew thelight editing. A few words have been inserted in damage they could do. Someone must have toldbrackets to clarify meaning; however, the text them we were friendlies. They buzzed us very low;remains largely unchanged. The term “American the sound of the jets was deafening, and you couldHealer” was used by the Vietnamese to describe feel the heat and smell the fuel from their exhaust asAmerican corpsmen who provided medical care for they roared away. All at once everything turnedlocal villagers.] dark and quiet again—just the sound of our engine and some small waves hitting the bow of the boat. I had just dropped off to sleep when I was It’s exciting when fighter jets buzz you, a real sensesuddenly awakened by the boatswain of the watch. of their power. I don’t need any trouble from“Chief White. Wake up! They blew up Song Ong friendly fire.Doc! They need you and Doctor Bunin right away.”It was just after 23:00 and I had been asleep an DEAD AHEADhour. Song Ong Doc was home for a small U.S. Nothing could have prepared me for what layArmy Special Forces Base and a U.S. Navy River ahead. I had training with the U.S. Navy TrainingBoat Squadron. The area was a known Viet Cong Command at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (GITMO),stronghold on the Gulf of Thailand and oursquadron provided gunfire support for the militaryforces and medical and civil assistance for thecivilians. The USS Garrett County was a [WorldWar II-era] LST that provided the area with sup-plies and assistance. I felt sorry for the troops still incountry—they would have to fight their way out.There was only one way to escape—that was byboat. The Viet Cong gave us advance notice thatthey were going to blow up the base; I just didn’tthink it was going to be this soon. LOWER AWAY I grabbed my medical bag and headed for the 01deck to catch a ride to the LST where all the action HSC Joe White at sea on board WHEC CGCwas going on. Doctor Bunin was there already and Bering Strait during refueling operation fromcharged up to go. He was against the war in general, a U.S. Navy oiler. (Mrs. Misa White)but a very good doctor. He saw no sense in all the The Quarterdeck Log 20 Vol 35, No. 3

and Pearl Harbor for this type of evolution. I never time. The Wardroom started to pick-up the villagebelieved I would be involved in a situation of mass smell—part diet, part war. I recognized it and put itcasualties of this magnitude. This was a Navy war— out of my mind—there was work to be done. II was Coast Guard. Things had changed; we were picked up a kid who was close by and started thepart of the Coast Guard Squadron Three out of first of many procedures. Everything we learned atSubic Bay, Republic of the Philippines, and GITMO and Pearl started to fall into place. I’llunder operational control of the U.S. Navy. Our never bitch about Underway Training again.mission was to train Vietnamese sailors to take over MORGUEour ship and provide gunfire support for theirtroops. As we approached the Garrett County, an The Chief’s Head would be the morgue; theLCM [a large landing craft] from Song Ong Doc Crew’s Mess was the triage center; and thewith a load of wounded passed us and were flying a Officer’s Head was for the seriously wounded.yellow flag with large black letters with “F*** it.” I Evans had this all arranged before we arrived; itguess they had it. There was plenty of action on the saved a lot of time and helped the patients’ outlook.Garrett County—sailors were running all over the OPERATING ROOMdeck. They were taking wounded off the Just the two of us to work on the wounded. I(helicopter) gunship; other sailors were knew we weren’t going to be able to save themputting stabilized wounded on the same gunship for all—there were too many and more on the way. Offtransfer to a better-equipped medical facility. Doc in a corner were about eight Navy men from theBunin and I headed toward the Wardroom, which 572nd River Boat Squadron—all were wounded andwas the Primary Battle Dressing Station (BDS). It sitting there stripped to the waist. Some of thewas easy—all we had to do was follow the decal sailors were watching trickles of blood leakingsigns to the BDS, that were on the gray bulkheads.Petty Officer Evans was the corpsman on the LSTand an old friend of mine from U.S. NavyIndependent School. We could work together verysmoothly; I was glad he was here. BDS Evans would be the circulating corpsmantonight. It was his ship, and he knew where all thesupplies and equipment were located. I knew hewould be a good backup when we got into a jam.The crew helped us strip down two large tables toserve as our operating room tables. The OR[operating room] lights were permanently mountedfor this type of emergency; Evans had all the packslaid out and we were ready to go. Doc Bunin startedworking on a kid right away. There were so manywounded civilians—mostly kids—I didn’t know Aerial photograph showing helicopter gunships landing on USS Garrett County,where to start. The crying and moaning worked on APG - 786. (navsource.org) The ship hadyou for a while. You could only do so much at one been a USCG LST during WWII The Quarterdeck Log 21 Vol 35, No. 3

FEATURED ARTICLESfrom their bodies. One man had a large stomach little girl who I knew very well was on my tablewound but refused treatment until the kids were with her left arm and both legs blown of theirtaken care of properly. He said, “they were worse sockets. I knew I was losing her; she was in shock,off than he was.” It was true. The kids were dying turning gray. I did a tracheotomy on her andon us quicker than we could treat them. I attempted to ventilate her. Doc Bunin came overrecognized some of them from the village where and said, “she should have made it.” He turned herthey would play with the hair on my arms. Now over and found a deep head wound whichthat I was looking at the shiny sockets where their swallowed his forceps. Now I knew what killedarms and legs belonged. What the hell could have her. Ordinarily, I would have picked it up [when]done this? A Navy man came over, looked at the doing a body survey, but they were coming so fastwounds and said, “the gunship did all the and had so many wounds, you threw the bookdamage.” The Viet Cong would come into the away in some cases. We did our best to stabilizevillage, throw a few hand grenades, and disappear. them for transportation to a better-equippedThe villagers would run through the elephant grass facility.to hide; the gunship would come over andilluminate the area; seeing the grass move andthinking it was the Viet Cong, it would open fire.The kids and civilians got hit all the time. Doc White providing medical care to wounded Vietnamese children during a visit to their Doc White providing medical care to wounded village in South Vietnamese villagers. (Mrs. Misa White) Vietnam (Mrs. Misa White) AFTER SHOCK It was 04:00 and we had a short break and caught up for a while. I felt so bad for the little girl that I knew and lost that I went to the Chief’s head MORE WOUNDED EN ROUTE and brought her back and started cleaning her up. The casualties kept arriving all night long. A lot of Doc Bunin and I loosely sewed her limbs back inparents were in the Crew’s Mess scared and place and bandaged her wounds, so her mothercrying. They were waiting for their kids to come didn’t see the horrors her daughter went throughout of our OR. I don’t know who told them the bad before she died. I wish I could have cried; it mightnews. It wasn’t us. At times, we had two and three have helped, but I was cried out. More woundedkids on the table at the same time. They didn’t take were coming, but in smaller groups now. I took aup much space when their legs were missing. One quick head break and could barely get into the The Quarterdeck Log 22 Vol 35, No. 3

FEATURED ARTICLES A good piece of history was the Navy men who gave up their beds, food, and ship to help the wounded civilians. We took over their ship for the night and the crew volunteered to help us in any capacity. The wounded men who refused treatment until the kids were taken care of has a lot to say about the compassion of our young warriors. NO PURPLE HEARTS Later that night, the U.S. Navy Command called our ship to verify that a doctor had treated the wounded navy men. I couldn’t find Doc Bunin and told the Navy “a doctor treated them all.” At Chief Hospital Corpsman Joseph “Doc” White catches a the same time, Doc Bunin came into the ride on a U.S. Navy patrol boat. (Mrs. Misa White) radio room and got ahold of the microphone and told thecompartment because of all the dead blocking the commander that Chief White treated half of thedoor. You keep looking at them--maybe they’re wounded. The Navy had some regulation that anot all dead, maybe one was in shock and was now doctor had to treat your wound to earn a Purplebreathing on their own. It just didn’t happen. They Heart. These men deserved more than a Purplewere all dead. Heart. NORMAL ROUTINE DOC WHITE’S CONCLUSIONIt is 06:00, we were finally finished taking care of The night on the Garrett County changed me. Ithe wounded from last night’s attack, but there never got close to the village kids after that night.would be more nights like this. I said goodbye to We saved a lot of people that night and the crew ofEvans—he really helped us with all his preparation the USS Garrett County made the difference withand knowledge. Doc Bunin and I went back to our their compassion and spirit. I do hope to see Evansship; we had sick call for our crew at 08:30. What someday as a Chief Petty Officer—he deserved it.a way to fight a war—kill all the kids and the Profile photograph ofnext day is routine as the High Enduranceusual. Cutter CGC Bering COMPASSION Strait in rare paint scheme of haze grayYou usually don’t hear with Coast Guardmany stories about our “Racingmilitary helping the Stripe.” (Mrs. MisaVietnamese civilians and White)it happened all the time. The Quarterdeck Log 23 Vol 35, No. 3