One of an estimated 100 bars in Vung Tau during the Vietnam War. Many bore the names of U.S. towns or other familiar places. Vietnam Virtual Archive, Texas Tech University.Its beautiful and peaceful beaches offered a relaxing respite from the brutality of war raging just miles away.
It is a remarkable place, Vietnam's seaport city of Vung Tau. Situated on a tiny strip of land shaped like a thumb extending into the South China Sea near the southern end of the country, it has long been a place of escape and of rescue, of refuge and of healing.
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The resort beach, long known as Cap Saint Jacques, had been a favorite getaway for the French colonials and the wealthy of Saigon since the late 19th century. During the Vietnam War, Vung Tau was a city of both war and peace, serving as an important and active port and as a favorite R&R spot for fighting men. Today, spurred by the country's economic vitality, oil exploration and a growing tourist industry, Vung Tau is bustling with development.
As the American troop buildup began, Vung Tau became a point of debarkation for tens of thousands of GIs. In the vicinity were a number of U.S. Naval facilities, and a fully equipped repair depot, USNS Corpus Christi Bay, was anchored a few miles away. A large contingent of Australian and New Zealand airmen were also stationed in the Vung Tau area.
Bireley's, one of many beachside concessions stands at Vung Tau. Vietnam Virtual Archive, Texas Tech University. But for most Americans, Vung Tau is best remembered as one of the most popular in-country rest and recuperation (R&R) destinations. Its beautiful and peaceful beaches offered a relaxing respite from the brutality of war raging just miles away. The place was so desirable that many men stationed at nearby bases were afraid to leave, refusing to take R&R elsewhere for fear they would be transferred out of Vung Tau when they got back. It was even widely rumored that not only was Vung Tau used by the Americans, Australians, South Vietnamese and their allies as an R&R destination, but even the Viet Cong would go to the city for some rest and relaxation of their own.
Many of the estimated 100 bars in Vung Tau during the war were named after American cities, towns or other familiar places, in an attempt to make the U.S. troops feel at home. Some of the bars in town were reportedly joint ventures between Americans and Vietnamese. The downtown section was filled with dance halls and young women and soldiers poured into the clubs where the latest rock music blared. An article, "Vung Tau, Vietnam, Pleasure Capital of the World," ran in Argosy magazine in 1969.
As early as the mid-1960s, both Vietnam's General Nguyen Khanh and American General William Westmoreland eyed Vung Tau as a possible evacuation route should that become a necessity. Their thoughts proved prophetic. After the war, Vung Tau served as an evacuation point for tens of thousands of boat people fleeing Communist rule. Fishing trawlers bulging with refugees set sail, never to return. Some of the passengers made it to safety, while others perished. Many boats were forced back to land, and their occupants were arrested and served prison terms. One man told of having given all that he had three times to sail away, but the boat was forced back to shore each time; he served three prison terms. Thousands of South Vietnamese continued to attempt escape via Vung Tau through the mid-1980s.
Today, the resort town is split into two areas. On Front Beach are most of the more expatriate-oriented hotels, restaurants and bars, while Back Beach caters to tourists and Vietnamese vacationers. On one end of Vung Tau, beside Nui Lon (large mountain), a giant lotus sculpture raises its flower toward the heavens. It stands at the summit of a hillside park called Thic Ca Phat Dai. A Rio de Janeiro–style giant Jesus, built in 1974, stands on top of Nui Nho (small mountain), which rises at the city's southern end.
Hotel accommodations run from luxury four-star operations to mini hotels and guest houses. Vung Tau is also home to Vietnam's first links-style golf course.
Jeanne Conte is a freelance writer living in Powell, Ohio.
For more photos and recollections of Vung Tau, check out this veteran site:
http://www.vungtaumikepapa.com/
Also, see the Vung Tau pages of the Vietnam Project at Texas Tech University:
http://www.vietnamproject.ttu.edu/uscgdiv13/catlovungtau.htm
And, take an entertaining trip back to 1971 with this rare short video from Vung Tau:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCp6IErgOU8
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[...] Vung Tau – Vietnam’s Hottest R&R Destination » HistoryNet – From the World's Largest Hi… [...]
In January 2008 myself and another 23rd MP Company, Americal Division,veteran spent one month on the ground in Vietnam. We traveled south from PhuBai to Saigon by local busses, traveling light and having fun with friendly Vietnamese, we stopped along the way in Hue, HoiAn, TamKy, ChuLai, Quinhon, and NhaTrang. We visited VungTau and it was a nice R&R. I would not however suggest to anyone that they swim off the front beach or any other beach for that matter. All of the storm drains and sewers empty straight into the sea and locals think nothing of squatting down at the shore line to answer natures call. Euro and Aussie wind surfers are out in force on the beach, and on the weekends the beach is crowded with modern day Saigon cowboys and their girlfriends. There were some nice restaurants, decent 2 star air conditioned hotels could be had for $20.00 USD double, massage parlors and pretty, friendly Vietnamese girls/women were in abundance, Tiger beer could be had for about .75 USD per bottle, what more could an old soldier on R&R ask for. In my opinion the only way to travel from VungTau to or from Saigon is on the high speed hydrofoil ferry that leaves from a pier along the back beach side of VungTau on an houly basis. At about $10.00 USD one way it is a 1.5 hr scenic boat ride through the mangrove swamps of the RungSat Special Zone and up the Saigon River. VungTau is certainly worth a visit if you are in Vietnam. While in Saigon stay at the Spring House Hotel for $20.00 double and eat breakfast, drink beer at a sidewalk table in the evenings, and use the computers at the Saigon Cyber Cafe around the corner, you will not be disappointed.
i served in sth vietnam during 1970/71 with an australian
infantry battalion and about once every 8/9 weeks we would go
on R in C to Vung Tau. there was nothing in the way of self
gratification or pleasure that could not be purchased. it was like
the old western "wide open" towns of folklore. i grew up in Kings
Cross, Sydney and thought i had seen it all. hadn't even scratched
the surface. now, 38yrs later, memories of the "old" Vungers still
bring a smile or two.
I was stationed in Vung Tau from January – October 1971. What a wild, wide open place it was. The troops coming in for R&R would party 24/7 (or as long as their $ held out). The bars & dance clubs were crowded every night & the beach at the R&R
center (on Back Beach) were crowed during the day. I also
remember some quality restaurants in town where you could get
great meals for practically nothing. I have fond memories of my
time in Vung Tau and hope to return for a visit some day.
Hi David,
i'm Norm was at vung tau 1971, i have a? you may be able to answer
Is the Zebra club at the vung tau airbase inside the American PX building?
or is the Zebra club near by on the same side of the street, i once entered an American canteen in this imidiate vicinity.
Do you know if they are located in the same building, or if it's just the a canteen incorperated inside the PX where i sat and had asoft drink on arriving at the base thank,s David.
during 1965 I was in vung tau and there was a line of barbed wire running from the jungle to the waterline at the northen end,when I enquired it was exlplained that it was the borderline between the vc on rand r and the allies,was talking to one vc and he said that he often saw AUSSIES wearing a funny hat.bush hat
Hi . We are Mom & Pop Warren . We arrived in Vung Tau Sept 27th 67.We set up a Servicemen's Home ( A Home away from home for our Servicemen.) We had lots of "our Boys" visit and stay with us . after the first year ,we saw the need of A Foster Home for Amerasian Babies that were being Abandoued We partnered with a Vietnamese family and built a home for them . They had 8 Children of their own . and ended up with 10 of their own . By the time we left vietnam in August of 1974 we had kept 276 Babies and got them adopted into homes all over the USA. We are still hearing from lots of them and also ,our vietnamese friends that came to the States. After the war we took 65 refugees to a ranch outside of Bakersfield, C. and got them set up in homes, cars, schools amnd jobs. It was a Thrill to see how they have succeeded in Thier new Country. Thank Don Warren
Dear mom & pop..grandma & granpa.
this is your grandson Rocky. (Tuan nguyen) please forgive me for not contacting you lateley..my cell # is (714)417-8983 I am currently reside in the city of fountain vally, ca…i hope we can be in contact soon…
with love.
god bless you both….
rocky
I first met the warrens in the chaplains office in Vung Tau. They were witnesses at our wedding in December 1967. Little did I know that God's calling would do through their faithfulness. My wife Chi Kim is in Vietnam today and hopefully attending at the assembly in Hochimincity. She will be returning home here in Maine soon. I would be thrilled to know any info concerning the warrens and what has transpired by the hand of God on their lives.
Hello mr. Nicholas
My name is Tuan aka rocky….I am one on the orphanage children that mom & pop Waren was caring when i was in Vung Tau Viet nam. FYI the last timeI was in contact with mom and pop warren when they reside in the city Barstow, California I believe they are still living in that city. please contact me my cell # is 714/417-8983.
Best regard.
Tuan nguyen
I so deeply pray that God's will has sustained you each into even longer years
of life. Being there in 1973 has been about the most significant event in my
life, all the way to Operation Baby Lift in 1975. Been in NY all these years.
Worked in healthcare/hospitals-but also lately as a retired patient-had two
open heart surgeries. There is more I wrote further below-#40.
Love and Blessings always in abundance……..David C. Bowers
347-330-5770
Hi
I am helping amerasians and Vietnam vets in locating each other.I had an case where an vet are looking for hes amerasian child.The mother used to work in an hotel next to the R&R place in Vung Tau in 1967,the mother's uncle own the hotel.She was about 16 years and he 19.He was working as an MP.
If anyone can help,then please contact me at: brihj@hotmail.com
http://www.fatherfounded.org
I was stationed in Vung Tau from December 1968 to December 1969. I was a lifeguard at the back beach for the first six months, then I ran the ice cream plant that provided ice cream for about 7,000 troops a week including the Aussies.
We used to eat at the USO because we liked their strawberry shakes. In the village we ate "gook" sandwiches. At the Beachcomber (located at the beach) we ate grilled cheese sandwiches.
All lifeguards were called "Steve" by the Vietnamese because more than one of the early lifeguards had first names of Steve and they had a reputation of fighting with the "Cowboys".
On the beach we had pinapple girls and surfboards. Bar girls could not get on the beach by themselves without our permission. They had to accompany a GI.
In between our beach and the Aussies' was a section for the Koreans. Fierce soldiers.
The Aussies had a built-in swimming pool at their resort.
Vung Tau was also a black market center for Vietnam.
If anyone was there at the beach working, or living in Vung Tau when I was there, email me at mgabennesch@fuse.net
Mike
I had R&R at Vung Tau. I remember arriving and buying a bottle of vodka and some canned tomatoe juice. To be honest I don't remember my stay or even leaving to return to my unit. But I must of had a great time or at least that was what I was told by my two friends that also had R&R at the same time.
Harry Miller
USA Retired
I was at vung tau 2 time and stayed with mom & pop better know
as the warrens also met there brother.serve in viet nam twice 1st
time with the 9th inf out of dong tam would like to hear from them. thank you
As a Line Captain with Air America flew there many times. However did not get to enjoy the fun and the sandy beach but did get a good view frfom the air. This was in 1966,67,68. Jack Thompson Montgomery, Alabama 334-799-7520
I was in a A-1 H-J squardon onboard the USS Midway before it went to the yards.The squardon I was in still is flying but in the new type aircraft and on one of the newer carriers. We still visit back and forth and keep in touch by e-mail or phone. The squardon moved onboard the USS Coral Sea and we made two more cruises on her after the midway went into the yards. We were sent off the ship and went in to chue liy or danag we picket up a group of marines and went out with them and tried to find an A-1 that had been shot down and get the gun camera out before the VC got to the plane. We were never very luckey as the vc always beat us to the plane and took as much as they could and put a gernade to the plane. We were always to late. We got our butts shot at alot. The A-1 aircraft was a good attack aircraft and a fighter also as our squardon shot down a russian aircraft while they were out on patrol shot one down and may have shot the other one down also. Very good aircraft the old A-1 was. God Bless America.
Hi, I was bar manager of the R&R Center in Vung Tau in '68 & '69. Spent three tours in RVN from '67 – '70. The most beautiful country and beaches I have ever seen.
I have spent many hours on the web trying to find pictures of the R&R Center with no luck. I didn't take any pictures myself-wish I had. I was the guy in the blue shirt usually sitting in the shoeshine chair at the end of the bar talking to the shoeshine boy 'Bingo'.
If anyone has any pictures of the R&R Center that they would ahare, I would really appreciate it (mikeandgena@windstream.net).
I'm 65 now and double retired. Have had two bouts with cancer. Retired from the Army with 21.5 years as an E-7.
Luck to all vets, Mike White
Hi Mike, my name is Mike Radomicki, I to was bar manager at the Vung TAu R&R Center. Worked there from Sept. 66 – SEpt 67. Maj. Ross was OIC when I left and Sgt Greenstreet was first sgt also sgt Ed Fergeson was second in command. Do you remember anyone that worked with you there? Very nice to here from someone who was in the same position as me. Thanks for posting your comments hope to read more.
Mike R.
Hi
I try to help an Vietnam in look for hes amerasian child,the mother used to work in the hotel besides the R&R center in Vung Tau.Do you remember the name of the hotel ? The mothers uncle used to own the hotel,mabye it rings an bell
Sincerely
Brian
brihj@hotmail.com
http://www.fatherfounded.org
I was stationed in Vung Tau in 1968 & 1969 as Bar Manager of the US Forces R&R Center. I have spent many hour on the net trying to find pictures of the R&R Center without any luck. I didn't take any pictures when I was there-too young to know it was important. I was the guy in the blue shirt usually sitting in the shoeshine chair at the end of the bar talking to 'Bingo' the shoeshine boy.
I spent three tours in RVN '67, '68, '69 & '70. It is the most beautiful country I have ever seen! I see the 'Grand Hotel' is still operating. Thats amazing since the French officers used it for their headquarters so many years ago.
Are you Lt. White working in the Pacific Hotel? If so Miss My Tran was your book keeper. I married her and we have been together for 43 years in Mar. She talks often about you and wonder if you got out alive. Please answer back, if you was this person.
myreo@bellsouth.net
G'day all you septics
I served with the Australians at Vung Tau during 66/67.
I was a Medical Assistant with 2 Field Ambulance and we had a fair bit to do with your 33 Evac.
Spent many hours on your beach and drinking at the Beachcomber Club. Remember the Life Guards well. There was one we called "Safari" because of the hat he wore.
Went back in 1998 and was amazed to see the old club still there. It is now a clip joint or so I was told.
Came across this site searching for a photo of a Lambretta tricycle that I need for our 44rd Reunion next year.
I was stationed in Vung Tau in 68-69 with the 8th Aerial Port, Detachment 1. If you flew in for R&R I probably met you at the terminal. I was a regular at the R&R center. We used to head down to the beach and use the Australian surf boards not far from the beached ship. It was finally removed for salvage in the late 80's. I was surfing one day (would you believe it?) with some buddies when my board got loose and hit me square in the nose. I almost bled to death on the beach! If it were not for the Aussies who drove me over to thier medical facility, I might not have made it. A young Aussie Doctor gave me 18 stitches on my nose to put me back together. I am and forever will be indebted to them. So if any Aussies are reading this……….I will never forget….their great beer drinking cheer…."up the old rooster and more piss"!. Here's to you and Gordon Woods surf boards. Vung Tau was a magnificent place to serve out the war and I was one hell of a lucky guy………………
Sgt Robert Rose
8th Aerial Port, Detachment One
June 1968 – July 1969
We landed at Vang Tau by way of landing craft with the second half of the 1st Infantry Division. Off the ship down a net , just like in the movies, into landing craft, motored to shore, front gate fell down, and who greeted us, the Army Band. Then hauled by truck to planes and flown to Thu Duc. Waited there until our stuff was off load from ship, USS Barrett I think. From Thu Duc was trucked to DiAn. Don't think Vang Tau was an R&R center yet, this was maybe Sep 1965?
Might be a little off on the moves, Ben Hoa might been in there somewhere.
Left via Ton Son Nhut.
I was stationed in Vung Tau from Aug, 1967 thru Aug, 1968. It was already an R & R Center when I arrived. I spent almost every night at the R & R Center that year. Got tired of the C rations we were eating and the food at then Au Favori Resturant. Ate a hotdog almost everyday for a year. Hope that never happens again. I became ill in October, 1967 and was hospitalized in the hospital on the airfield. I had a fever of 105, chills and a blue spots all over my body. There was an army nurse that stayed with me trying to get my fever down. It took her all night, but the fever finally broke with the help of alcohol and ice compounds. I believe I owe my life to her.I
never got her name, never saw her again. I wish I could have thanked her.
To my fellow service men that served in Vietnam I say THANK YOU FOR
YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY
I was stationed with the Cobra NETT team from Apr. 1969 to Sept. 1970. I was trying to find out about Mom and Pop Warren's Vung Tau Christian home on the web when I ran across this article. I met Mom & Pop Warren when at Vung Tau and even volunteered to help a little with the building of the home. I do remember the bars, beaches,and girls from there, but my meeting with the Warrens is one of the fondest memories. We would also fly out to the Corpus for parts for our helicopters. We had a Bell Tech-rep who rented an old French villa in the hills on the outskirts of town. We had some great company parties there. What was really nice about being stationed there was the fact that many of our friends from basic and AIT would come through there on an R&R and we could enjoy the town together. I hope to someday return. I've talked to some of my friends who've made the trip recently and they loved it. The people treat Americans great there(and even better if they find that you or a relative had served in Vietnam). My congratulations to the author who asked for the comments which brought back such fond memories in an otherwise tragic war.
I was stationed with the Army in Vung Tau with the PX (PACEX) for 1yr & 4 months beginning Feb. 1969.
I came back to the U.S. in June of '70' got out of the Army and returned to Vung Tau 30 days later and stayed in Nam as a civilian for four and a half more years with aircraft (helicopters) contractors.
Ike
Thanks to the two people who sent me pictures of the R&R Center in Vung Tau. I would still love to have some of the inside of the facility and of my former employees (I was the Bar Manager in 67 & 68). Can't believe it's been over 40 years!!!!!
Please send pictures of R&R Center to: mikeandgena@windstream.net. Thanks so much. Mike
army 2nd Maintenance group…spent 3/68 to 3/69 in Vung Tau. also spent most of my money in town..good times and memories…
mike i was with head & main 2nd mt bn vung tau from spring 69 till we went up north to phu bai-can you remember where the co area was on the map-be great to hear from ya
HEY MIKE………YOU DA BLONDIE CAT IN 2ND MTCE BTN, HQ CO.
I AM THE NG THEY SENT TO NAM WITH 6 MOS LEFT. YOU GUYS THOUGHT I WAS CID, EXCEPT FOR PAUL THOMAS, THE CAN POINT GUY. I BELIEVE YOU'RE IN DAYTON, OH. I HAVE PICS OF US ON THE BEACH IN VUNG TAU. I'VE BEEN LOOKING FOR THE GUY I REPLACED, LARRY LYMAN FROM NY FOR YEARS. GOOD TO KNOW YOU'RE OK.
jambo@kc.rr.com
CORDIALLY,
JAMBO
I was with the 199th Light Infantry Brigide in Long Binh. On day we were at the Main Base and we were asked if we wanted to go to Vung Tau for the day. We were taken by duece and a half. On entering the beach area there were a bunch of girls waiting for us. We just selected one and want out with her to the beach. There some small huts along the beach where you could take your girl in to take care of business. She stayed with you all day. Fun day in Vung Tau.
12 months and 1 days in Vung Tau at the Airfield Dispensary as an x-ray tech. Quite the place! I maneuvered the peninsular s ma trader.Went back in 1998. Couldn't recognize much. It is now a rich place with new hotels.
Hi ,I am an Australian ex soldier
I was in vietnam in April 1971 I Was Picked up at the Zebra club can you tell me if the Zebra club was inside the American PX or was it a separate
building ?
I would appreciate an email in reply
Thanks Mate
Regards Norm Olsen
Hi Bob
I think I should explain ,i wa picked up by the transport driver ,I had just arrived in Vietnam from Australia
Cheers
I was stationed in Dong ba Thin near Nha Trang with the 92nd
Assault Helicopter Co.in 68/69. Myself and another guy got orders
to attend a 10 day electronics school in Vung Tau. When we got there
the instructor said that there was a mix up and some of us would only
be attending a 1 day "overview."Unfortunately my buddy and I were
in the 1 day class and scheduled to leave the next morning. Bummer,
just 1 night in sin city.
Then we remembered that we had orders for 10 days.If you have orders
in the Army that's all you need. After our 1 day class we would get up
every morning with the 10 day class guys,eat breakfast and immediately
head to the beach R&R center. Days at the beach, nights in town. Turned out to be a great vacation and we were the envy of the 10 day
guys who actually had to attend class.Only in the Army!
I was with the 13th QM U.S.Army in Jan 70 to Dec 70. Stationed in Vung Tau. I am looking for any one that was the in the unit at the time. Welcome home brothers.
Hi Mike I was with the 13th QM platoon when we first came in country from Fort Lenardwood MO.
Sept 1968 we came as a unit and releived the 528 QM Company who went to Phu Bia I left country sept 1969 just a few months before you got there. I have lost all my pictures of vietnam. Welcome home Brother
Hello Roger,
I am replying a later post, where you referred to the Dak which ran off the strip on take-off. I was with the Aust Caribous, and watched the crash from the time the engine ran away.
I have some photos of what was left of the Dak, if there is some way of e-mailing them to you.
There was a Negro who used to drive the fuel tanker, and he kept his pencil stuck in his 'Afro'. I thought that was great.
I went back last year, and the town has changed, but in other ways, still the same.
Regards, Peter
Hey Peter,
Thanks for the reply. I would love to see your pictures I some how have managed to lose all of my vietnam pictures. Were you with the aussie air force?
I was a refueler with the US Army we ran the 5000 gal.tankers that refuel the C-130s Peter you referred to the Black man who had the pencil in his hair was he running JP4 or avgas for the Caribous.
Hello Roger,
I served with the Australian Air Force on the Caribous.
The tanker driver used to re-fuel the Bou's with avgas.
Reply by e-mail, and I will send some photos.
Regards
Peter
Good Morning Peter,
I Hope this reaches you by E Mail I am new to this site and not sure how it all works.
I was stationed in Vung Tau with the 535th Tactical AIrlift Squadron from December of 1969 through July of 1970 at which time the 535th was moved to Cam Rahn Bay. We were stationed at the end of the peninsula on Hwy 1. We shared our ramp area with an Aussie squadron…..Both units (ours and the Aussies) fleew Canadian airplanes. The C-7A Caribou a great old STOL aircraft that was one of the unsung heros of the war……….
Hi E. Hamell
My name is Dennis Fields and I was stationed with 535th TAS at Vung Tau from May 1968 till May 1969. I was with P.O.L. You may have known some of the guys that was there when I left: Castillio, Thorpe, Sorenson. My memory fails me for more name though. I originally had orders for Cam Rahn Bay but when I got there they gave me new orders for Vung Tau. It took me 2 days to get down there and about 2 more days to decide that had been a good trade off. My biggest regret is not taking more pictures while I was there. I was reading on the net how big a city that Vung Tau has grown into now, it was a small town when I was there. I was discharged at Travis the day after I got back.
Hey Dennis Fields
My name is Rodger Roby and I was statiioned at Vung Tau from Sept 68 to Sept 69. I worked P.O.L. for thre Army work out of hooch with some Air Force guys that ran fuel to the C-7A Caribou. I ran JP4 for C 130s and ran the chopper refuel station. I rememberand Air Force Staff Sgt Depp he was in charge of the refuel. I believe their was a Staff Sgt. Williams also. We had A Sgt Swift who was our NCO the only time he came to the air fiel was to get away from company area. Do you remember when their was and old C47 Air Vietnam Plane came off the run way and hit a new building that was just by Black Horse for the Air Force refuelers I would like to hear back if we are talking about the same group of P.O.L. guys.
Thank Rodger
Also served TDY at Can Tho with Air America and Air Vietnam…Later after spending time in and out of Laos and Thailand returned to CamRahn Bay for DEROS…..
Just wanted to say hello to Al Feser…23MP '68….Glenn Endress
Hello, my name is Todd Scheuerman, i was with the 147th Assault Support Helicopter Company , 1st Av Brigade , 222nd Avn Bn, if you
were with them from March 68 to March 69, I was in Flight Operations, if you remember the tall skinny guy, that was me. Anyone that remembers me, give me a holler or send me an e-mail, or you can call me area 951-329-7023 cell, or h ome 951-797-9098 if you would just like to say hello
and talk a little, no problem. People that i remember Arie Niederman, hey good buddy, Timothy Young, (the Crop Duster)you remember , don't you Tim, oh, and McCloud, i remember you too my friend, pilots and flt commanders, i remember all you guys. Nice times, no ill feelings whatsoever.
C Ya
Todd
i was in the147th 2-69 2-70 gary jackson 903-824-2923 worked demand maintenance with sp/5 holland and griese.
Hi Gary,
I can't say I remember you but I was there from May 68 to May 69. I was on a PE crew, and second half of tour I ran the crew. You guys were just getting off work each morning when we were starting. The only guy I remember from Demand Maintenance was Schaffer. Others from PE crews were Sgt Williams, John Maki, John Hiller, Bob Tuttle. and maintenance officer CW3 Algermissen. I took over the crew after SP5 Prince went home.
I was surprised to see someone else from the "Hillclimbers" after 42 years.
Love to chat one day. phone number is 904-642-3610
Guy
Peter Eaton
E mail robyrw@comcast.net
Hey Rodger,
I think that we are on the same page with Staff Sgt. Depp & Williams. There was a Staff Sgt. Williams there when I left, he was kind of a heavy set guy and from ILL. I think. I was stationed with a Staff Sgt. Depp but I can't recall if it was in N.C. or nam. It must have been in nam. He was a slender built black guy. Yes I remember when that C47 came into the building, I have several pictures of it, I would send them to you but it sounds like Peter has you covered on that. Rodger your name sounds very familiar I may have met you over there, are you from Ohio? There was a Mexican-American guy in your company who worked POL I think his name was Gomez, does that ring a bell?
Later
Dennis
Hey Dennis
Nice to hear from you yes sgt Depp was as you said a slender built black man very nice guy. Sgt Williams was a heavy guy sounds like we were there at the same time. I got in country Sept 1968 left Sept 1969 we ran JP4 for the C130s and ran the heliport.
Yes I am from OHIO. I have been trying to put a face with your name but its only been just 40 years. The name that were in your other post sound familiar as for Gomezi'm not sure. I have been racking my brain for faces and names since I got on this site.
I was discharge at Travis when I got back in Sept. Keep in touch you have my E Mail.
Rodger
David Serbe (USAF Ret.) here. I was stationed with 483rd CAMS at Vung Tau from Nov 69 to summer 1970, when they moved the C-7 Caribous and us support troops to Cam Ranh Bay. I worked in the Aerospace Ground Equipment (AGE) shop; drove AGE around the flightline with a Jeep when our tow tractors were down. We had 2 shop dogs, and I used to drive around the flightline with the dogs on the tractor fenders. Remember going to town almost every night for a year, watching Australian beer-drinking contests at their club, and pulling night guard duty at the Grand Hotel – where our Caribou pilots lived. We worked hard AND we played hard!
I am a Vietnamese lady looking for a gentleman I met in the Whitestar hotel in Vung Tau in 1968-69. I believe his name was Eric. He wore a light blue uniform with short sleeves. We lived together for 8 months and he used to take me to watch American films near the airfield. He drove a motorcycle. He was injured in his left leg after a rocket attack and went home. I came to see him one time after the injury but I did not speak any English at the time and lost touch with him. His friend that lived and worked with him was a fat man named Frank or French and her girlfriend was named Tam. They were the ones who introduced us. If anyone has any idea of who I am looking for, please contact me. Many thanks.
Hi Rodger I was stationed with you in FT L. Wood andalso in Vung Tau. We went to Memphis with Larry Stone on weekends.
hey bob, glad to hear from you, check post #30 and you will find my email address. send me a message so we can connect, cant reply on here. ttys rodger
Hey Bob,
Great to hear from you. I have been having trouble with my computer trying to post on this site not sure what the problem is. I do remember our trips to Memphis with Larry Stone what a nice guy and family. I would love to continue E Mail if you would like. I have a ton of question about our old unit. do you remember all the unit numbers 2nd Maintenance Battalion 1st logistical command. Have you had any contact with anyone else?. Looking forward to talking with you. Rodger
I was assigned to the 765th Infantry Security Platoon located on the airfield from February 1966 to May 1968, and from the comments written about Vung Tau being such a hot spot R & R Center must have occurred after I left. At the time, Vietnam had tree R & R Centers and Vung Tau was one of them dutring the time I was there. But if you enjoyed you brief stay on the beaches and the night spots, thank the "grunts" of the platoon, units of the 1st Inf. Div., units of the 9th Inf. Div., units of the 199th Inf. Brigade, the Marines, units of the 25th Inf. Div., Special Forces, Advisory Teams, and units of the Austalian/New Zealand forces that fought the VC in the Rung Sat Special Zone and the Delta to make Vung Tau a specail place after 1968.
Great comment Ellis. I was there from Dec 1965 to Jan 1967 in the 765th.
Didn't spend much time in the bars due to protecting the air field 24/7.
I was stationed with the 805th Trans Co (Lt Trk) from Sep 66 – Sep 67, then at the Supply Depot (Tool Room/Warehouse) Sep 67 – Sep 68. Lots of great memories in Vung Tau. Made some civilian friends who worked with me and I always wonder what happpened to them, are they still there or evacuated.
jj i was with HMSC 2ND MAINT BN, between 8/68 and 9/69 when they went to phu bai then i stayed with them until 11/70 when i went home. VUNG TAU was a trip i pulled guard at the grand hotel and all over the downtown area. My hooch was right infront of the arms room. When i wasn't on guard i worked in the arms shop, and went on a lot of convoys to long binh.I blew most of my money in town or at the beach. mike what was your MOS?
I spent an in-country R&R at Vung Tau in 1969.
I was with the 765th Security from June 69 Until nov November 69,after spending a year with 3/12 inf 4th Div (Recon Team). I really enjoyed it . Anyone out there remember me feel free to e-mail me .
Dannie, Good to see a few 765th Security Platoon members popping up here and there on the internet. I was with the 765th Security Platoon from Oct 66 to Oct 67. I created a web site that needs some work: 765securityplatoon.webs.com. I've loaded up a few photos and hoping other 765th SP grunts will find the site from a search engine and send me photos and info that I can add to the Site. I and several other 765th SP members have searched for info about the Unit – there is none. In the VN War History archives – we did not exist.
Steve, Dannie Moses ; Yea, not too many people knew about us, we kinda did our own thingand stayed low. On one of my Shifts we had A Caribou went down after take off and it scattered the Vietnamese on board all over the swamp and we had to go out in the5 Foot deep nasty water and recover the bodies and weapons. We found all of them of course all of them were dead; Other than that I had a Darn good time. We still wore the 1st Log Patch. I was there from June69 to Dec 69.They sent me to 1st Ranger Bat A Co
in Ft.Hood Tx, I re-up to go back to Nam , and was wounded on that my 3rd tour,with 1/6th Inf 198th LIB Americal Div. I Retired on 1 June 1990. I don't have any pictures of Vung Tau, sorrry.
Hillo again Dannie, We (765th SP member) are looking for information about the 765th and when it was disbanded. We were think about 1970. Did you hear any chat about the Army pulling out of Vung Tau and allowing the Air Force to take over the Air Field operations? You can reach me at stevebowman@surewest.net. Thanks, Steve
Dannie, I was with the 765th from Dec. 68 to Mar 1970. I came over from the 25th Div. I was a driver for a while when Sterling Bailey was 1st Sgt. We had a turnover of so many and only a few stayed for any length of time that I can't remember all of them. Plus it's been 40 years. I do remember the plane that crashed, I was unloading guards at the time. and 1st Sgt. Bailey and another guy got a soldiers medal out of it. Nether got their feet wet., Ha. . Haven't had much contact with anyone except a guy named Macdonald that was with the 765th. . Hope everything been good since nam. Welcome Home
Bill, This is Dannie Moses, I know all of us came from an Infantry unitand I can remember faces but not names. Still it's good to here from you, I was on guard when the plane crashed. Welcome home also,Brother. I went to Tenn. in April to my first Reunion with 9 other men from Recon 3/12th inf 4th Inf Div. only to find out that 2 of my friends from Recon had been killed in an ambush 2 weeks after I left there to come to the 765th. We're going to the Wall in DC in May of this coming year. Take care Brother and God Bless You and your family. We're not getting any younger, I just turned 62 Last month. SFC (RET) Dannie Moses
To Bill Cockerham
I was with the 765th Security Platoon from 2-66 to 5-68 and there are four of us trying to put together a unit history and would like your input. Please contact me at ecmatt45@aol.com
After being discharged from the USN in 1967, I worked in the control tower at Vung Tau on a DOD contract from Dec 1967 through July 1968. I remember the beautiful beaches, bars, and ladies, as well as all the aircraft that flew into Vung Tau during the Tet offensive of 1968. I lived in an old french villa we rented in town with several other guys from work, and spent many hours at the Grand Hotel bar during my time off. I would love to hear from anyone who worked or was stationed here during this time period.
1971 to 9173 in Vung Tau-1st as a Area Command Supply Officer,
retrograding vehicles in early standdown, moved from air base to HHC
HQ in an old french hotel, by restaurant that RVN's President's lady
friend frequented. Became HHC CO-helped to fix transmitter on top
of mountain, volunteered at Catholic Orphanage-4 nuns and over 250
children; also was Finance Officer for station where soldiers could
exchange their dollars for RVN 'Ps'-later taught English to some children of town MDs-their hope was to go to college in USA.. Returned to Vung Tau to supervise the Vung Tau Christian Children's Home of Mom and Pop Warren in 1973 as they went on a trip back to west coast USA. Got a used long mobile trailer from Alaska Barge that was converted into a nursery at the home of the Phats' where the orphans lived. Home was also associated with Assemblies of God when I was there and Holt Adoption Agency. Mom and Pop are/were really great people, more like angels!. Also worked with an RN from Oregon-Ms.Jo Hewitt in caring for the children-some only a few days old. This after US Army time served in RVN-19 months, then at the home was the best thing I have ever done with my own 'dime' and time. Retired now after 32 years in healthcare/hospital administration in NYC….could add a lot more, but…….Thank you, God! Recovering from my second open heart surgery-bypass, then aorta valve replacement. God Bless!
email-poweredbybowers@verizon.net
Greetings – hope this finds you doing well. To verify identity do you remember the name of our commanding officer?
Crazy Joel- I do remember you! Col. Nichols was HQ CO, LTC Clarke
was Exec Off, Major McGown was Adj-those are the names I remember
along with the very lovely Ms. Tuyet. It is now 6 months plus, going on
age 66 and am doing OK. Hope you see this reply! I have some old files
that I am starting to go through as my 33 year old son wants to know more-
just can't tell him everything! Seems to me you were there toward the end
of my active Army hitch-left 'Nam in Sept 1972. Do I remember that you
went to college in Fla? Blessings and good health……David
Great! Apologize for taking so long to get back to you. I still have quite a bit of RVN stuff such as my driver's license, installation ID, copies of orders et cetera. Sounds as if your post-military life has been stressful but you are still ticking so that's good. I still live in Florida and have a small bookstore (used books only). I still have one picture of you pulling some concertina but your back is to the camera. I could probably scan it and email it to you at your request. Meanwhile I will try to give you a call.
I was stationed in Vung Tau 67 – 68 at HHC, 2nd Maintenance Battalion. Reading the above stories like the beached ship. Almost forgot about that. And the trips to the beach, that brought back memories like seeing an Aussi covered with sand – passed out. We had a club at our battalion called the Red Dog Saloon and had nickle beer nights I believe on Fridays and if the seam on the beer can lined up with the pop top hole, it was free. Pocket of change went a long way back then. Thanks to all for sharing your stories as it was nice to reflect back on those times and if there is anyone out there that was there during my stay there, please reply. Thanks & God Bless
RICHARD is hhc the same unit as hmsc 2nd maint or were they two different units. I was with hmsc 2nd mnt.bn. from 8/68 to approx9/69 when they moved to PHUBAI. But the RED DOG sure sounds like i have been there, We had a club right in the middle of our company area , But i don't remember a name to it. What was your MOS i worked in the arms room and shop when i wasn't on guard duty.
Chuck, unless we are getting confused with hhc & hmsc I think they may be different units. I worked in the battalion headquarters as a personnel specialist. One of the companies in 2nd maintenance broke in boston walers and I believe there was a shop that rebuilt / repaired vehicles as a support command. It does bother me as some of this stuff is a little fuzzy and more but I guess maybe that can happen over 40 years. A couple names I can recall are Major Wagner, Captain Anderson, Sargent Brost. Just to name a couple.
RICHARD your right i know right where your area was, and i forgot about the BOSTON WHALERS, i mounted a couple of M60/ machine guns on them and got to go on rides with the guys that worked on them , we would go all the way around to the R.R center, my shop was in the big building with the boat shop and ve h,repair shop ,I spent my first 5/6 months on guard duty at the P.O.L. yards and the AMMO DUMP, And all over downtown,Were you there when we had the M.P.C. exchange and we had to turn our money for a new style that was fun the bars downtown were MAD at everyone and wanted thier money exchanged and they were raising hell with everybody. I spent NEW YEARS EVE 68/69 at at bar full of AUSSIES and all i remember was them singing WALTZING MITILDA all night. In SEP. we moved to PHU BAI. Thanks for the memories..
I used to watch those boston walers running along the beach. Those things looked fast and thought it looked like fun. I was there a little earlier than you. I was there 67-68. I left a few weeks after the attack during the tet offensive. Yes I do remember the funny money we used. And yes the Aussies liked their beer and the Waltzing Mitilda song. They would almost wear it out. You said you moved to Phu Bai. Was that just you or what group moved? This is amazing to be able to talk with someone who knows and has seen the same stuff. The beached ship was unforgettable. Thanks for sharing.
I was on the USS Tutuila ARG 4. Anchored in Vung-Tau harbor.The year that I was there I met many of the locals and enjoyed every minute with them, Playing cards, drinking and just enjoying each others company. There was chinese who ran some bars and massage parlors that I used to frequent. The Aussies were always a fun bunch , thats where I drank gin and told stories of home.Swimming at back beach was always fun. The sand was too hot to walk on at times.
I was with the 528th QM Co.(PS) from Feb 68 to Mar 69. I remember going to back beach and even 'front beach' a few times, although it was off limits. And "windy point" where that freighter was beached. In April 68 a rocket hit a barracks of the 805th trans co. which was next to us w/1kia and 8 wia-which served as a wake-up call that we were still in a war zone. After I left I heard the VC finally hit the POL yard, someone sent me a photo of one of the storage tanks in flames. I took a lot of pictures and I've thought of going back but probably won't. All in all a lot of good memories.
I went to Vietnam with the 805th in Sep 66 and in 67, I went to the depot there in Vung Tau for a year. I didn't know about what happened to the 805th. Wish I know who was killed and wounded. A lot of guys left before that April I'm sure and one platoon was in Can Tho.
Dave, can't help with the names but I do have some photo's of the barracks that was hit. If you send me your address I'll email them to you.
cmccue1c@sbcglobal.net
Chuck
I was with the 528th from Sept 68 to Sept 69 I was there when the 805th got hit with the rocket it was the barracks right behind ours. I did not know anyone from the 805th. I came in with the 13thQM platoon.
Roger, I worked with a couple of guys from the 13th, SP4 Andrew and Sgt. Palff (or something like that) in supply. The attack I was referring to took place in April 68 and it was the barracks directly across from our orderly room. The one you mention must have taken place after I went home.(Mar 69). Its funny, I don't remember you but we probably knew each other. Jack Moore was another of my good friends-he worked in the arms room.
Chuck
We are talking about the same attack I was on the second floor remember a lot of stuff hitting the roof of our barracks and we were off to the bunker that didn't take long. Do you remember what the writing was no the CO &XOs jeeps were?
All I can recall is what was on the supply officer's jeep; Mr.Clean
Chuck
Captain Brokowski his jeep was ( Here Come Da Judge) Sammie Davis Jr. Laugh IN. Sgt Pauff was a very round fellow was my platoon Sgt for a while. Andrews may have been Bob Andrews very nice guy Sp4 . I worked at the airfield refueled C130 & Helicopters do you remember Sgt Kim Korean war vet and POW
Rodger, Wow I remember all those guys………Sgt. Kim was on the promotion board when I made Sgt.,but I didn't know about the POW thing. Did you ever get to the Aussie camp in "Nuey Dat" (I know thats spelled wrong) When I was short they let me ride shotgun in a 2 tanker convoy there. It was an infantry outfit but they had a pretty cool PX.
Chuck
Do you remember what the first shirts name was? Who was the Sgt in charge of the arms room drank a lot. Their was a guy red hair very nice guy handle bar mustache no name. Did you know a guy named Michael Gossnel he work at the POL Yard. How about Sgt Harris black man smoked a pipe the bowl of the pipe was a skull?
Yes I did spend sometime with Aussies I ran Convoy with them David Sayles and were ask to leave their compound by some bloody aussie captain he said this place is closed and you yanks can leave. The guys were not very happy Rudy Bose was the only name I can he was my shot gun remember.
Rodger
We had a Sgt. Mason for awhile who had a bit of a drinking problem. He attacked a house maid once and shortly there after he transferred out. Nice guy when he wasn't drinking.After that is when Pauff was brought in. The red haired guy was the company clerk after Macandless went home. He and I got shot at while swimming off Windy point. Never saw who did it always figured it was the Arvins.
Harris and Sayles both sound familiar but its been along time.
Chuck if you check post number 30 above you will find my EMail . I was talking to Peter Eaton he is and Aussies from the airfield .
Some photo's I found on another web site:
http://www.seawolf.org/vungtau/vungtau.asp
To Bill Cockerham,
Bill, we of the 765th are looking for guys that were in the unit the same time Elroy Wilson was and it appears you were. According to the information on the Wall he was killed on April 12, 1969 in a fixed wing crash in Phuoc Tuy Province. There has been extensive searching done and no confirmation of a fixed wing plane crash was recorded on that day. If you or someone else that reads this has any information , Please respond and let him and his family rest in peace.
Thanks,
Art Simmons
765th Dec 65 — Jan 67