I entered into service with the US Army in August 1968 at the age of 19. Boot camp training was at Fort Lewis, WA. After Advanced Infantry Training, I was sent to Vietnam. There I was assigned to the First Infantry Division (Big Red One), 1st Battallion 2nd Infantry (Ramroders), and served with Charlie Company from January 1 – July, 1969. Our mission was to search and destroy. At night we would set up for ambush. I was then assigned to the Combat Support Unit, 1st Battallion, 2nd Infantry, 1st Infantry Division from July 1969 to December 1969. I was selected to attend the Bob Hope show in December at Laikhe, Vietnam. My estimated time out of Vietnam was December 31, 1969. Awards I received include the Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, and National Defense Medal. After returning home on leave, I went to Germany where I was assigned to the 3rd Armored Division, Iron Brigade, 2nd Battallion, 48th Infantry (Spearhead), and served with Charlie Company from February 1970 to August 1971 at Geluhansen, Germany. I was honorably discharged from the Army August 4, 1971.
