Army Training and Vietnam
Katie’s Interview with Grandpa
Katie interviewed Grandpa about the Vietnam War for a school project in April 2015. Below are her questions and his answers.
1. Where and when were you born?
Logan Utah on January 30,1946
2. What was your part in the Vietnam War?
I was a helicopter pilot inserting troops, resupplying ammo and hot meals to the soldiers in the jungle.
3. How did you find yourself in the army?
I was going to be drafted but I wanted to have a say in what I would do for the Army so I went and took the test to become a helicopter pilot and passed.
4. How old were you when you fought in the Vietnam War?
24 years old
5. How long were you in Vietnam?
1 year
6. Why did you become a helicopter pilot?
Because flying was interesting to me. I thought it would be fun to fly and that maybe it could turn into a career when I got out of the Army.
7. What training did you go through? What was it like?
I went through basic training for 2 months. Pre-flight training was for 6 months and advanced flight training was another 7 months. We flew a small helicopter in pre-flight training that we named Mattell Mr. Smith because it looked like a toy. Then we did advanced training in a “Huey” which was a big helicopter like you see in the movies. It was fun yet strenuous. You had to pass all the tests including auto rotation. Your trainer would turn off the engine and you had to learn how to land safely and softly without an engine. There was a 65% failure rate in flight school, but it was fun to fly.
8. What did your family think about you fighting in Vietnam?
My family supported me, prayed for me and wanted me to come home.
9. Did you have any brothers fighting in the war?
No, but my brother LeRoy was involved in the Cuban missile crisis a few years earlier.
10. What was the feeling in the U.S. about the Vietnam War? Did it change after you came back?
There were protests about us being in Vietnam. It was an unpopular war, even today. You just didn’t talk about it. It just got more unpopular as time went on.
11. How did you feel about the Vietnam War? Did that change when you came back?
I felt as though we were going there to help people gain freedom and to fight the communist aggression. My feelings changed in that the politics involved stopped us from asking the Vietnam people what they wanted.
12. Did you think there should have been troops fighting in Vietnam?
I have mixed feelings.
13. Did it feel like you were your normal self after the war or did it take some adjustment?
I felt like my normal self and didn’t feel like it took too much adjustment time when I came home.
14. Do you still think about the war and do you have flashbacks or nightmares?
I still think about it. I miss the guys I flew with, but don’t have any flashbacks or nightmares.
15. What are your best and worst memories of being in Vietnam?
Best memories: All the guys I served with, especially the ones that had my same values. A great memory is flying above the clouds feeling like I was on a big ball of cotton.
Worst memories: Losing friends who were shot down. Being shot down myself. Seeing the Vietnamese people suffering. I missed being home, but didn’t feel too bad about it because I felt I had a job and a responsibility to do.
16. Was fighting in Vietnam a good or bad experience overall? Why?
The experience of flying helicopters was good. Since I was the only LDS guy, I got more missions because sometimes I was the only sober pilot. Overall it was a mixed bag, some really good parts and some not so good. Some of the pilots got physically ill because they were so afraid. One mission we flew into Laos and lost 11 out of 22 helicopters. We got all the men out safely, though. I don’t remember ever being afraid for myself, but I was afraid one time when my co-pilot was badly injured and everyone else was hurt except for me in my helicopter. One Vietnamese soldier was killed and the helicopter went down. I felt blessed and protected.
July 16, 1969 - Letter from Basic Training at Fort Polk, Louisiana
Hi Folks,
Well I’ve got a little time so I better get a letter off. It’s 8:30 and lights go off at 9:00 so I’d better hurry. Really it’s hard in ways to write because there’s nothing real exciting happening. It’s the same thing day after day. But today we had drill with the rifles and our first lessons with the bayonet. Really it’s pretty interesting to learn these things although I hope that I never have to put it to use for their purpose. So far I really don’t think it’s so bad. I get pretty tired and have trouble keeping awake but that’s just getting used to it. One thing I don’t like is between the humidity and temperature I’ve acquired a pretty ugly heat rash all over my back and shoulders and some on my chest. They say there’s not much you can do about it so I’ll suffer it out.
Yesterday my bunk mate Johnny asked if he could attend church with me. So he went to all the meetings with me. He liked the Sunday School and Sacrament Meeting but the lesson in Priesthood wasn’t too well prepared and wasn’t particularly interesting. But we got some literature for him and he’s read some of it. I won’t promise he’ll become a member but he’ll know about the church. He’s really a pretty decent guy and I think we’ll become better friends as time goes on.
Last Tuesday we had a couple of guys up from Ft. Wolters to inform us about the Warrant Officer Flight programs. Really I’m pretty enthused over it but they did tell us one bad thing. That is we can’t expect a leave home until after we finish Flight Training, so in another 10 1/2 months I’ll be able to come home. But when I do come, it’ll be with wings on my chest and a bar on my shoulder, which I can hardly wait to get.
Gee, that’s enough about the Army. How’s everything at home? Does it seem good to have Kent and Debra home now? They’ll have to write and let me know how California was. After this weather I really wish I were there myself. How’s the kids in my Sunday School class doing? They’re a great bunch. Tell them all “Hi” for me as well as the other people around.
But last and most important, how’s those at home doing? Gary, you’d better be saving your money. And if you spend it, make sure it’s on good looking girls. Have you a latest special one? Dad, how are you doing? Golly I really wish I were there to help a little bit on the work. Even though I didn’t do very much I sure enjoyed being with you and working with you when I did. Mom, I still think you ought to slow down and take it easier. But write and let me know how everyone is doing even though I know your really busy if you get a chance, drop a line. Oh I hope you haven’t sent those stamps yet. I found a way to solve my problem so don’t worry and I’ve got plenty of stamps now. I’ll just have to write more letters now I guess.
Well it’s past bedtime and I’ve got fire duty from 12 to 1 so I need to catch some sleep. But to all Beee Goooood and Sleeeep tight. May the Lord bless and watch over you always.
Love, Del
August 4, 1969 - Letter from Basic Training at Fort Polk, Louisiana
Dear Dad, Mom and Family,
I’m staying up a little later tonight to get my fatigues washed. It’s really a hassle to get in the line for the washer. I’ve been waiting about 3 hours to get to it so I lose a little of my sleep tonight. But I’d rather be a little cleaner and tired than dirty and tired. Tomorrow we have our record qualification firing with the M-14s. I’ve really been ticked at myself the last couple of days because I’ve been messing up on the range. I just haven’t been able to hit the targets like I feel I should be able to. Today I went on the corrective range and tried to improve my shooting. I hoped I’d help it out which I probably did a little but tomorrow is the day that really counts so I’ve to improve 100% tomorrow or else. I’d sure like to qualify for sharp shooter or expert but if I don’t do better than I have I’ll just barely qualify. These old rifles are pretty fun but it’s much different than deer hunting. It’s good experience but hopefully I won’t have to use it in the way they are training us for. But if so, well that’s just part of the crazy old world.
We got our first full month’s wages tonight. By the time everything was taken out I ended up with $55 out of $115. But that included such things as pictures, yearbook and all the other mixed up items the Army has for us to get by volunteer choice. Talking about pay, Mom, would you get into my foot locker and get out my checking book and savings book and send me? They told us that once we get to Fort Wolters that would be the best way to handle our money and I really agree. I’m going to send home $20 so would you put $10 into my checking account and the other $10 on tithing. Also would you see Mr. Haney or someone at First National and get my savings account also in your and my name so both Dad and Mom and I will be on it. This you won’t have to worry about for about a month or so but keep it in mind. But as soon as possible, send me my check book then I’ll just put my check in there next month. Also please send the electric razor real fast. This guy would like it and it’s a little money to me. I’m slowly getting into a little better shape. Once I get rid of the extra around the middle I’ll be satisfied. That’s the easiest to put on but the hardest to take off. But lately my appetite has been dropping for Army chow and between that and the exercise we get I might get rid of it. I still haven’t gotten rid of the rash on my back. I’m using phisohex, alcohol and body powder to get rid of it but it’s not doing it so I might have to go see a Doc pretty soon. That’s one thing I don’t want is a rash continuously. It’s really bugging me just to know it’s there.
Next Tuesday I’ve got to pull guard duty. They try to tell you it’s an honor but to me it’s work but if it helps out I’m willing. Really I think it will be OK even though it lasts all night. How’s everything at home? I hope you’re able to get done most of what you want to. But get your sleep because it will mean some to me. Someone in the family needs to get it and it’s a fact I won’t get very much.
Well, it’s past bedtime now so I better close and get enough rest to get me thru my final day of the fourth week of basic. I certainly love and appreciate each and every one of you. May the Lord bless you always and that we might be together through our prayers and faith. Lots of love from an Army brat.
Love, Del
August 12, 1969 - Letter from Basic Training at Fort Polk, Louisiana
Dear Mom, Dad and Family,
Well the other day we got some real good news. They called the Warrant Officers out to go get the rest of the clothing issue and also read a letter saying we can have a choice of two weeks leave after basic or stay here as hold overs. Guess which one I’m taking, the hold over. Hope your not disappointed but I am. The reason is really quite sound. If we take the leave we have to pay for the transportation both ways and with my payments to the bank due the middle of September, I just can’t afford it.
The reason they can let us have leave is there’s been a hold up at Fort Walters so we’ll have about three or four weeks delay before we start our training there. And really I will take the leave so you can ignore the first paragraph. But one thing, see if it’s possible to work about 6 days at Coal Pack then I’ll be able to pay my transportation and my first payment at the bank also. I’ll get my things straightened out then. But you can get my suits out and cleaned if you would. I’d like to get into some civies. I’m really not supposed to be writing letters right now because I’m on fire duty but I hate to do nothing because really it’s a waste of time.
At five in the morning we head out for a 4 day bivouc (just actual field training). We came back to the barracks about 10:00am Friday night. Wednesday morning we get up at 4:30 and then don’t hit the sack until 4:30 Thursday and get back up at nine. So we’re in for a real groovey time this week.
The young timers were really exellent Sunday afternoon. This was there last stop before heading back home. They all seemed pretty excited about it and I can’t blame them. I think Nancy Budge and Katherine Mather was as happy as me to see someone from happy valley. They said they had met a few people from Utah but I was the only one from home. So I was teh lucky one. I think if I get a chance I’ll have to take Katherine out. Right now I don’t know if I’ll ever get the chance because of the schedule I’ll have for the next two years. But I might and I think it would be worth a try.
I’m not sure the exact day I’ll get home. There’s about six of us that needs to go to Denver and we’ve thought about renting a car from Dallas and driving. We think we can get by cheaper that way with six going together. But we need to check into it more. The way things look right now and with the training schedule it will probably be the fifth or sixth of September that I’ll get home so have things ready.
How’s the garage coming and the work on the house? Tell Gary he can get ready to lose his bed for a week or so because that’s one thing I like compared to this bed here.
Well I must close for now. May the Lord bless and keep you.
Love, Del
October 6, 1969 - Letter written from military flight school in Fort Wolters, Texas
Dear Dad, Mom and Family,
I have just a few minutes to write so I’d best take advantage of the time. I have about ten minutes before class starts again. The classes aren’t really that hard but it’s hard to stay completely alert and awake. These early rising hours just affect me once in a while in the wrong way. But it’s not so bad really.
All I can really think about is getting in these helicopters. Three more weeks and we start getting in the air. Man I can’t wait. I finally made it to the dentist this morning. I had to miss a test to do it but I can make it up. I sure hope I can get everything done they said I needed done. The dentist wants to cap two of the front teeth and make some bridge work for my right bottom side. I think I can get it all done except the bridge work. At least I certainly hope so. Some of my teeth are getting pretty bad.
The guys I’m with here at Fort Wolters are all really good guys. You get a much better quality here than you do in basic. There’s about six of them that have had three years of military service and they are a really good bunch. John and Nisk are still in the same flight with me. In fact, Nick is my roommate. John is two doors down the hall. The other roommate Jean is really top notch. He’s always doing more than his share.
Really this is pretty neat. It is like one big fraternity and some of the standards of the guys aren’t any better but that is OK. You don’t have to go to their standards. One thing I don’t like is our officer told us to wear military underclothes. So my garments are packed in my suitcase. There is four other Returned Missionaries here and they don’t like it either. And it appears to be base wide because the other guys I know have the same situation. Some of the things are so strict they even want us all to use the same colors of hangers.
Well I’m interested in what’s happening at home. Gee I’d like to know how everyone is and what they are doing. How’s the house and garage coming along? How’s Jolene, Gary and Kent and Debra? If they got a chance they could write me to.
Say I’m really running out of time so I best get this in the mail. I sure love and appreciate all of you and all you do for me.
Love, Del
April 1970 - Letter to Jolene from Advanced Flight School at Fort Rucker, Alabama
Hi Jolene,
I thought that I’d rather write a short note and send a check instead of having Mom sign one for me. The amount is blank. You fill in that amount you think you’ll need and get you a full outfit - HEAD TO TOE - then all I ask is get a picture of you with it on and let me see it, ok? Oh also if you want to get that set for Nita and Phil let me know. I’ll be happy to get it for you and can do anytime. Oh, tell Brent to look throughout the car really good. If he finds an earring to save it. Linda has two half sets and I’m the cause and so she’d like them back. Say remind the people to get those pictures developed and sent to me. I’d appreciate it muchly. Say Jo, thanks for being such a great person and sister. I sure love and appreciate ya.
Love, Del
May 1970 - Letter from Advanced Flight School at Fort Rucker, Alabama
Dear Dad, Mom and Family,
I thought it was about time to let you know how things are. Really up to today things have been ok. But my luck must be changing. Yesterday morning I spent taking my car apart to replace the clutch. In order to replace the clutch you have to take the engine out. Well I got it out by 1:00 pm and ready to put back together. Opened up the new clutch assembly I had bought and for some reason they had given me the wrong one. And the parts stores were closed so I’ll have to spend next weekend putting it back together. But the worst part of the whole day was when I was under the car a metal particle fell in my eye. I just came back from having it taken out. It didn’t cause any damage except that it scarred the cornea just a bit but the doctor said it would heal over and be just as good as new. But it grounds me for at least 2 days, and we were just going to start flying the big one. Oh well. I’ll get my time in without too much trouble. I got back on time and have passed my check ride and made up the exam I missed so I’m well on my way for July 14th graduation. If not too many more things happen then we’ll see you about the 20th or 25th. Boy I tell you I enjoyed being home. I wish I could have come home to different circumstances. But Grampa really had a great life and because of that it was much easier to bid him farewell for this span of life. But it was really good to be home and be in an environment where love and respect are predominant - not cast away as the Army does it. I’m just really thankful for the wonderful family I was privileged to be raised in . And to have the gospel of our Lord is a most choice blessing. Thanks folks for being just what and who you are. I do love and appreciate all of you very much.
Love, Del
May 1970 - Letter to Jolene from Advanced Flight School at Fort Rucker, Alabama
Hi Jo,
I was really glad to get your letter. Seems like you can never get enough of them but I’m always behind in answering them no matter how many I get. My eye healed fine. In fact it helped the vision in my left eye. It was 20/25 before wearing a patch on the right eye for 5 days. Now it’s strengthened back to 20/20. How about that?
Man, lately I’ve really had the trouble of keeping my mind on what I should It’s showed up in my flying a little so I’ve got to do a lot more studying. But things have been better the last couple of days and I’m sure they’ll improve from now on. I’m too ready to come home to blow it now and have to be here longer. Besides I can’t afford to have anything happen here cause I like Utah weather in July and it’s only going to be hot and humid here. Oh yeah, tell Brent “Hi” and tell him he owes me a letter. Ask him if he wants to buy a car, I’m ready to get rid of mine but I wouldn’t curse him with that. Even if he wanted it.
Gee, just thinking about it. I sure miss the good old Mormon environment. These gross mouthed guys here are really starting to bug me. I’d like to cram a few balls down their throats to have them shut up once in a while. But next weekend I’m moving in with a different guy. He’s from California and is a top notch person. You might say we have a little more in common and somewhat nearer the same view points on life. That should make things go smoother.
Golly, I sure wish we’d had more time last time. But I’m sure we’ll be able to make up for it in July. I’ll probably be going back and forth quite a bit. Well Jo, the time is late and I is tired. So hope this will do for now. Lots of luck and Be Happy. May the Lord bless and keep you.
Love, Del
Journal Entries shortly after arriving in Vietnam
August 18, 1970
Today we got up early (6:00am) and missed the maintenance ship to go to Dian so we waited until 9:00am to go on the truck to Phu Loa. We got copies of the form 66 made and then found a ride with a company courier to Dian. We got half through at finance and they thought it necessary to go to lunch. So we went to the PX and snack bar for an hour. When we got back, they had us make out allotments and we got paid. I ended up with $170 in cash. Actually I made more than necesssary but I can save it for some things for Christmas. Riding in the back of a truck for an hour and one half was not my idea of a good time so I can say I’m glad I fly and not play foot soldier. The officers here are really a good bunch. They all love to party and I guess they all think it’s a necessary part of life. Usually they are very loud and boisterous but dep within each one has a great respect for his fellowman. This was evidenced by the memorial service held for two EMs that died in the past 3 days. One on the 14th because of injuries occurred from being shot down in a Charlie Model gunship on 8 August. The incident cost all four lives. The first that the 173rd lost for some months. The other fellow was lost due to a fire in the early morning hours of the EM club in which he stayed. At the memorial service was the first time I saw a glimpse of sorrow or depth to the men here. I think a lot of it is due to the feeling of lightness and hidden wants the men have. Really so far it’s to be a real good experience though like many I could do without it.
August 19, 1970
First day to fly and was it ok. 40 days without flying and the proficiency was pretty low. The hardest part was remembering the small things like tolerances and to check for bullet holes in the bottom of the ship. We worked mainly in the Lai Khe area. We made about 8 pickups and drops of the run troops. They never had it quite so good but they are becoming better soldiers. The AC for me was CW2 Grabowski. He’s got 60 days left of 30 months in Vietnam. He’s one lucky one to ETS when he is through here. That would be worth extending for if things don’t work out at home. But time will tell.
Doug Grabowski really has his stuff together. He has a lot of confidence and portrays a lot of knowledge for the aircraft and doing his job here. He also gave me my in country check ride and though it wasn’t perfect, I did better than I expected but will like it better when I can really do a top job flying Uncle Huey. We put in 6 + 20 for the first flying day. It was interesting and though I sure could have used a pad since my rear isn’t used to it quite so well but it will probably get broken in quite quickly.
Our Hutch Maid has finally decided to do our cleaning. She didn’t want to at first because we didn’t know if we would stay here for a long time. But if she doesn’t work - no money so I guess it convinced her. The Vietnamese people are becoming Americanized in their pocket books but rather slow in the other areas. Their prices have really gone up and some goods are really ridiculously priced but they seem to get it and so the price war goes on today.
August 20, 1970
I guess I won’t be working too hard today at all. I didn’t have to fly so I got up about 10:00. Rough life. Showered and shaved then just spent the rest of the day laying around and reading. We had a band in from Australia tonight. The TJs with 3 girls and none exceptionally good looking. Two of them were dancers and the third sang and very well too. Joe Conners was in charge and he was a stubby little guy with a british accent. But not a bad show for Vietnam. Who expected to see Go Go Girls in Vietnam. Really an uneventful day but as a new guy the tradition for the Robinhoods is the new guys buy the bar at least once and also when you become AC. I had a five dollar bill in my wallet and that was my contribution.
August 21, 1970
Up early to fly and was up with CPT Kraft. A good sort of guy and has a high ego. But really wanted to help me learn adn gave me many good pointers and nice to know things. We flew about 14 sorties to 2 Landing Zones. One LZ was a pond about six feet deep. The RUNs jumped out loaded with gear and some went over their heads. Two of them from the first drop came close to drowning and had to be taken back to the base camp. I think they made it though. In the afternoon we had to take the band back to Red Horse Pad for their show. Then dropped the ship off at Chuchi for the RUNs to take over. We got back, ate and watched the movie “They Came to Rob Las Vegas” - not a bad flick. Exciting day - Wow.
August 22, 1970
Today was about as uneventful for me as possible. Andy and I were #1 spare so we cranked, traded ships because 179 was bleeding RPM at a hover. We took it down to Stogie 1 1/2 and shut down. Then went to crank again with the flight about 9:00. The main fuel filter had to be replaced so we came back to the pads and I read for a while, then wrote Carol Reeves. After I went to get the zipper on my second flight uniform fixed at Moma Sons. She said they’d be ready tomorrow. I came back and wrote Linda while listening to Glen Campbell and Rod McKuen. She’s really a terrific gal, one that could hold my interest for a long time. I moved in temporarily with CPT Johnson so I would be on the side of the white flight. He’s going to be al alright guy.
August 23, 1970
This turned out to be quite a sabbath. Mainly a regular sabbath except we had to fly and do all the things that a war calls for. We did a few troop insertions south of Ben Cat. On the first insertion, they flushed out an enemy and he tried to swim the river. He didn’t make it and so ends his lifes travels. The second area we inserted them they have found and killed 13 of the enemy so you can see there is a little bit of action around here. I’m glad it’s the RUNs that get most of it. This afternoon we picked up troops near Phuc Vinh. On the first pickup, CPT Cannon of yellow lead had his engine blow. He was over trees and had to do about a 270 degree turn. He had to pull a little pitch to make it over the trees. They went about straight down. The CPT got it the worst, really shook him up badly. He probably got several broken bones but he’s alive. The gunner broke his heel, the pilot and crew chief made out ok. They had about 6 or 7 RUNs on board and a couple of them got busted up a bit but nothing real serious. The ship was a loss. The tail boom was cracked about 2 feet from the fuselage and now you have a crooked huey - non flyable. Things like this happen and the 173rd hasn’t had much of it, but this month they had their year’s allotment. On the 8th of August, a gunship was shot down and the full crew was lost. It’s quite a month for orientation to Vietnam at Lai Khe.
August 24, 1970
A day off without a thing happening. I slept a lot and read some. Just a very lazy day.
August 25, 1970
Perhaps the busiest day yet. We put in 9 hours of flying out in the area north of Saigon. We flew out of Tanan and Duchoa and also ate lunch at the latter. We scared out one Vietcong in one Landing Zone and the C&C ship nailed him. Then the RUNs found one in the same area and so not two bodies decorate the area. We flew a bunch of different PZs and LZs. I flew with Paul Shumate from Denver Colorado. A really fine person as well as polite. He explained things as we went along and I learned quite a bit from him. Today overall was a very good but tiresome day.
August 27, 1970
Today there was more action than since I’ve been here. And we finally flew some Americans around for a change. They got us up early but crank time was changed so we went back to the sack after breakfast. We finally got out to the area only to shut down again and wait. About an hour later, we got the LZs and made about 4 runs in and out. Then we went to another area and did the same type only picking up and reinserting. We did this through about 6 runs adn then Mel and I was broke off for a mission out of Chuchi for Snoopy control. We did troop and resupply. The areas we had to land to were not too big and sometimes we only had room to sit down and barely get our tail in. Really it was extremely interesting. On the last lift we picked up a German Shepherd and his mate.
August 28, 1970
A very boring maintenance run to Saigon and back. We flew for about 90 minutes and waited around for 2 1/2 hours. A very boring day. I didn’t touch the controls at all or even touch the radios. CW2 Pynn was the AC and preferred to fly from the right seat. He is a pretty good pilot but rather a one sided optimist.
August 29, 1970
We really had a busy day flying down by Tan An. Crank was at 7:00am and we inserted the first troops about 9:00. The flight had to orbit for 20 minutes while the C&C and guns ran out some Vietcong. They ended up killing 4. The RUNs killed two more and captured one. They also captured a few weapons and documents. Really it was a very busy day, in fact we even skipped lunch to make sure we were around when the call came. We finished about 5:30 with 7 1/2 hours.
August 30, 1970
The morning was just like the maintenance run of 2 days ago so I won’t need to elaborate on that. But the afternoon was filled with trying to start getting the room in shape. I took down the so called closet and started putting up some paneling. It’s a lot of work but it’s going to be home for a year so I may as well make it livable. Frank Hoover is my room mate and he’s not much on putting wood together in a fashionable way so I have to rely on my own crude ability. Frank’s a pretty good guy from Oklahoma. He likes to talk a lot but doesn’t say a whole lot. Tonight CPT Johnson, John Trapani, Lt. Baxter, Paul Shumate and I got in a religious discussion. It was pretty interesting but wasn’t really involved except covering the hypocrisy of man today and they found out I was mormon and didn’t smoke or drink. not much else was said.
August 31, 1970
Today we went to Battalion to have a new guy meeting. There they cover a little bit of everything. The most emphatic things it seemed to me was the safety and medical. The medical was the most interesting to me. The doctor said the average person consumes three times as much liquor and twice the cigarettes. So far from what I’ve seen an awful lot of booze is stowed away nightly by the men here in Vietnam. Some of them about have the Saturday night drunk every night. The most common disease here is Venereal Disease, with Gonorrhea at the lead. There are five kinds of VD and they figure about 50-60% of the older people have it. Quite some odds for the younger generation. The drug problem for the GI’s is heavier than it should be. Heroine is big along with the pills. They also keep saying “The war is over” because they are just waiting for full Vietnamization.
September 1-8, 1970
September so far hasn’t been extra exciting. So far we haven’t had a whole lot of flying but the last 2 got me 12 + 40 hours so things are looking up. This evening on 8 September we had 2 rockets come in and hit past the active. You should have seen the people scatter and hit the deck. It was a first for me but I did alright following the example they set. More of the guys are finding out that I’m LDS. Not too much for reactions but one jokingly said he was going to teach me how to drink. Of course I have my thoughts about that. Time is starting to pass faster now. I just hope it continues and that the war effort can be turned over to the people here without too many more American lives to accomplish some freedom in the RUN.
August 24, 1970 - Letter from Vietnam
Dear Val, Yula and Kids,
I guess I ought to try to get a few letters off today. Gee things are rather boring if you don’t have to fly. But sometimes the flying is something to get relaxed from. Yesterday we flew some Vienamese soldiers into some area and they flushed out one of the enemy. He didn’t have a chance. But that’s war and we’re on the upper deck so it’s much safer than it ever has been.
I’m at Lai Khe about 40 miles north of Saigon. This area used to really see a lot of action but they haven’t had anything too hostile for about a year. The Vietcong are going mainly to guerilla warfare because they’re running out of supplies and men. Maybe they’ll just stay stagnant until they’re built up again and that in itself will take a long time. I personally hope this area keeps a lag in it and all for at least fifteen months.
Other than that things aren’t really like the newspapers tell it. All they tell about is the bad and never the good. I just remembered that your’e going to Utah so I’ll let you get this there. It should be a surprise to you anyway. Wish I was going to be there, then you could meet Linda. Who knows maybe you’ll get to sometime anyway. Dad or LeRoy would probably be happy to tell you something on the subject.
Well as you can see I’m not completely dissatisfied with Vietnam but there’s a lot more to learn about it. One of these days I’m going to Saigon and from what I’ve heard that’s a city and sight by itself. You can tell Kevin, Darrin, Melanie and Tonya “Hi” and everyone else. Best close for now. May the Lord bless and keep you always. I sure love and appreciate ya.
Love, Del
December 8, 1970 - Letter to Jolene from Vietnam
Hi Jolene,
Golly it was really fine to hear from you. I sure am glad to see you doing so well and ready to bite off another piece of life. You’ll really enjoy school both the study side and the social side. By the way, what school are you going to?
I did get the things you sent me but I’m saving everything until Christmas to open it. I’ll have to tell you later if all well. But I’m sure it will be and I’ll enjoy everything I got. I still haven’t got anything to decorate my tree. It’s the only real tree and it’s a nice looking tree. All the guys here keep asking when I’m going to decorate the tree. I guess if I get to a PX I might can pick up some decorations. One thing for sure, the fresh pine smell is something unique here.
I have to agree that Linda does have quite a personality. In fact, she does vibrate as you mentioned. She’s really a cool and special girl and I think she’ll be around too. Some of the best new for me is last Sunday the official word came down that we can ETS out of Vietnam. So come next August I’ll be out of the Army. Really it’s all a pretty good deal. They told me I could sign indefinite and make plans for one more tour in the next 3 years or plan on 20 years. Well you can see what a choice I had. But that’s OK. I’m ready when the time comes.
The flying is really keeping me busy this month. I’ve put in more hours flying so far than you would on a regular job. But it is rather making the time pass quite fastly. In fact, it’s hard to believe I’ve been here 4 months but I have.
I’m glad you are enjoying the work at Artic Circle. It’s really a pretty good business. I think I’ll get back in college and finish from there. I don’t know. But I’m all excited about being a civilian again.
The brotherhood of man is an important thing but some of the men need to be punched in the nose. I think you’ll know what I mean but being over here in this situation you get to see and work on that and it’s alright. You make some real good friends while you’re here.
Jolene, I’m really proud of you and thankful that you are my sister. Take care of yourself and stay happy. May God bless.
Love, Del
December 25, 1970 - Letter from Lai Khe Vietnam
Hi Folks,
I’d imagine that about this time you are opening your presents. Golly I hope everyone likes what they got. And that Santa made it to our house. You know I have to admit that Christmas is a bit different over here, not that it needs to lose the true meaning but I really don’t think many of the guys here really know and understand Christmas as it should be. It’s been rather hard for me to feel the spirit of Christmas and to be humble as I would like to be.
I was going to write a letter this morning after I opened the presents but to be truthful I was a little homesick and so I played carpenter and made a medicine cabinet for four of us and all our shaving gear. It kept me busy and my mind where it couldn’t concentrate on home. But in my thoughts I felt very grateful for Christmas and for our Savior and the life he exemplified. We had our Chapel dedicated today and that was teh closest to anything spiritual that I heard in Lai Khe. But last evening (Christmas Eve), the radio played some Christmas songs and they had a reading of the Christmas story. Really it was very nice and I was able to be by myself and reflect upon Christmas and all the beauty of Christmas.
This morning all they played was Christmas music and some of the most beautiful songs there is. It really made me think of home and the wonderful people there. I really got some fine presents. Lots of good reading material. Now I can’t say I don’t have some good books to read. I think I probably got enough to keep me busy with the rest I have to do. Especially if time keeps going like it has this month. I haven’t even got many letters written and I’m really behind in that part. Oh yeah, I’ve got all the packages except the decoration and they are all very much appreciated. I got the tree and presents from Brent, Jolene, Garth and Sharee, Yula and Val, Marge and Les. So you can see I had a very nice Christmas and one too from Linda. So it all added up to a very special Christmas and I really liked everything I got. I hope everyone at home had a Christmas as good and nice as mine. But I hope it was a white Christmas because I sure missed it here. Although I’ve thrown about 4 snowballs - we got the snow from our refrigerator. It’s a bore to defrost it as often as it needs it. I’ve got a tape started to you and I’ll try hard to get it finished before long.
I certainly appreciate and love all of you. May the Lord bless and keep you especially through this special time of year.
Love, Del
January 27, 1971 - Letter from Vietnam
Dear Folks,
Golly, January has gone by fast. It’s hard to believe that its almost over. And its looking like February won’t be such a slow month either. Really we haven’t had any excess of flying but I guess I have just kinda made myself forget about time and make the best of it.
Last Friday I had the privilege of going to District Conference and getting in on a little spiritual food. It was really great. President Hardy of the Hong Kong Mission presided and he really gave some tremendous talks. He’s really a fine man and one thing I liked was he had a great sense of humor and a devotion to God and country. we had two of the three LDS chaplains assigned in Vietnam there and both were really fine. One of them was probably the youngest chaplain I’ve seen in the Army. He gave a really thinking talk about our duty here and not just to country but even more important to God. I gained a lot from the two sessions of conference. I guess there was around 250 men there and a few Vietnamese converts. It was really great to be among the saints once more.
One of the better things was Larry and Craig (my buddies from Salt Lake) both made it. Larry came down from up by the DMZ for it. It was really great to see them and share some good times. I’d think the ideal situation would be to be stationed in the same place and company with them but I know that’s impossible. I think both of them have the assignments that I’d just as soon avoid as far as companies are concerned. The Robinhoods are a really great unit.
Would you believe it’s 10 days later and I’m in I Corp? We left Lai Khe on the 31st of January and it took us a couple of days to get up here. Man it was really pretty up along the coast. I took a lot of pictures and as soon as I get some back I’ll let them come you’re way. Really it’s a pretty country. It’s too bad that the war has to tear it up so bad. But if they get a little more freedom of choice then they may be able to build it back up.
Right now the Robinhoods are living in tents and building bunkers and filling sand bags. It’s quite a change from Lai Khe. Down there fans and air conditioners were a must. Up here it’s raining and cold. We use winter sleeping bags and field jackets. Really quite a change and the flying is a bit different. It’s a lot more gusty and the weather isn’t quite so good but it’s all part of the job. I guess you can’t have a lot of comfort all the time. Besides it’s not so bad.
Right now we’re sitting in the bunker with candles for light. And it’s pretty warm and for the the situation really it’s alright. Nothing to complain about except it does get pretty cold flying up around 2000 feet. And I guess that could be worse.
Well it’s been really busy here getting set up and all but things are getting okay. Folks, I sure appreciate all the support in all ways you give me. I love and appreciate you all. May God bless and keep you.
Love, Del
February 24, 1971 - Letter from Vietnam
Dear Folks,
It’s been so long since I wrote last that it’s hard to write the history of it so I’ll just try to catch you up and see if I can’t do better.
The last 18 days has been pretty busy and has had much more excitement than we had at Lai Khe. In fact, I’m ready to go back south. We’ve been flying daily in Laos and that was the reason that we got moved to I Corp. We’re supposed to be here for about 90 days and then go back to III Corp and probably to Lai Khe.
I’m sure you’ve been reading a lot in the news and on TV about the move into Laos. Well it is a good military tactical move. Of course quite dangerous and at times rather hectic but we (The Robinhoods) haven’t lost any people from the shot down aircraft. in fact, we’re really lucky. We’ve only had one helicopter shot down and that was our CO and another ship picked them up within 30 seconds after they landed on the ground. A few others have taken hits but none real serious or anyone hurt.
I know that you’ve probably been wondering and worrying so there’s no problem there except me not writing often enough. Really things are great with me and I’ve been having a pretty good time. We’ve been doing some work on the old tent area. I’ve got a few shelves up and it’s pretty comfortable. We also have plywood on the ground so at least we have hardwood floors.
One of the new guys in the company is a Mormon. He’s married and has two kids. He’s really a great guy. We spent a lot of time last night talking about the church and discussing the guys and how much the gospel would add to many of their meaningless lives. There are so many of them so mixed up but aren’t willing to listen or try to find out. It sure makes me thankful for the gospel and especially for such wonderful parents. For them wanting and working to give the best to me. And having the patience to let me make some stupid mistakes and then helping me through them and doing so much for me.
I do love and appreciate all of you. May God bless and keep all of you.
Love, Del
February 28, 1971 - Letter to Jolene
Hi Jolene,
Well I’m out in the field right now waiting for them to get the mission organized and the area. We are going in to secure for us to fly in and out of. Well I at least get a letter started and it looks like they are bringing the troops to us.
I suppose you may not have heard but the whole company of Robinhoods is now in I Corp. We’re at Don Ha which is about 15 miles from the DMZ. The area itself is secure and very little happens so it’s not too bad there. We are flying into Laos, however, and that’s a different story. Really so far it hasn’t been so bad and I think things will get better. The first few days in are the hardest on the pilots but our company has been pretty lucky and from the looks of things it should get better. They are really trying to make the areas we go into as safe as possible - that’s so no helicopters or crews will be lost. I guess you’ve read in the paper and on the news about it so there’s not much to say about it. Except if they accomplish what they have planned on then it will be an alright move. It’s really hard to say that the war effort here is wrong because who can put a price on freedom if you’ve never really experienced it before. I’m sure theres a lot of people in the US who have never realized or appreciate the freedom they have. So you can imagine what the people here are going through. It’s their first taste of freedom and it’s really somewhat of an adjustment. But I think if the people here once gain it, it will be well used.
Jolene, I’m really glad that you are in school and enjoying it. The courses you have sound interesting and fun to be in school. I think I’ll get back in next fall and try to make it through. But I’ve still got some other things to consider. I’m not quite sure I want to jump right back into school if you know what I mean.
You ought to be here right now (not really) and see the signs and movement of war. I guess we got about 15 helicopters waiting for the mission to start. We’re just sitting on the top of a small hill and as you look around it’s quite a pretty sight. Lots of high mountains with streams, waterfalls and ponds around. This is really a beautiful country by sights.
Jo, I really appreciate your letters. I like finding out about the happenings there. Jo, I’m really proud of you and I’m glad to have you for a sister. May the Lord watch over and protect you always. Be good, take care - see ya later.
Love, Del
April 13, 1971 - Letter from Dong Ha
Dear Folks,
Well things here have been slowed down quite a bit. We finished pulling the troops out of Laos and the Rhe Sanh area a week or so ago. Since then it’s just flying support missions to different areas around Dong Ha and Quain Tri. It’s a little more like the flying we did in Lai Khe. It’s really a great change - the only better one would be to move back to Lai Khe but that’s impossible. They have already moved some people into our barracks there. They told us when we left we would be moving back so we could leave our extra things in our rooms. But then they changed their minds and so I don’t know how the things come out. We’re supposed to get all the things from Lai Khe the end of the month. When we do I’ve got quite a few things I’ll be sending home for you to store for me.
I’m going on R&R to Hong Kong in July. Probably the first or second week so if there is anything you need. let me know. I’m going to buy me some stereo equipment and have it sent right home also. I’ll let you know what to expect so I can find out if it all gets there. Also in February I sent $100 and in March $400 so please let me know if you got it. If so, I expect that you have paid the bank. I’m also sending $400 this month that you can put in my checking account if you would please. Also please let me know the balance etc. And let me know if the “Green Monster” is fixed and ready to drive.
Thanks folks for all you do for me. May the Lord bless and keep all of you.
Love, Del
