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Dave Berry | all galleries >> Galleries >> Vietnam War '67 - '68 > 2/34th Armor
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2/34th Armor

Providing armor support for our mechanized infantry battalion. 1967

On 1 October 1963, the 306th Tank Battalion was designated the 2d Battalion, 34th Armor and was officially activated at Fort Irwin, California, as part of the 4th Infantry Division. On 3 August 1966 the battalion was alerted for movement to the Republic of South Vietnam. Arriving at Vung Tau on 10 September 1966 with their M48A3 Patton tanks, 2/34 AR began conducting limited operations with the 173d Airborne and 1st Infantry Division. While under operational control of the 1st Infantry Division, 2/34 AR was conducting search and destroy operations in the II Field Force Area. The Vietnamese Monsoon had turned the ground into a muddy mess, which was a problem for the Tankers. Thirty-four of the battalion's tanks became mired, causing their mission to be in jeopardy. Major General (MG) William E. DePuy, the 1st Division Commander, monitoring the situation from a helicopter, contacted Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Stailey, the 2/34 AR battalion commander, and asked "How many tanks do you have stuck, Tanker?" LTC Stailey responded with his situation report (SITREP) of thirty-four tanks mired. MG DePuy then bet LTC Stailey a case of beer that he couldn't get all his tanks recovered by nightfall. With determination and hard work, the tankers met this challenge and were on the move again (and thirsty) before dark with all thirty four vehicles recovered. Impressed by their performance, MG DePuy nicknamed the battalion "DREADNAUGHT" meaning they could do the impossible and feared nothing. From that point on, 2/34 AR was known as the "DREADNAUGHTS", which also become a familiar call sign throughout Vietnam as its tank companies were parceled out to other units until the Battalion's departure. In October 1966 Bravo company (Call Sign Battlin' Bravo) was attached to 1/4 Cavalry of the 1st Infantry Division at Phu Loi, where it remained until the invasion of Cambodia in 1970. Alpha Company (Call Sign Orphans) was detached to the 25th Infantry Division at Cu Chi. Charlie Company (Call Sign Fighting Aces) was sent North to I Corps Tactical Zone. Alpha and Charlie companies participated in numerous operations in the III Corps area while still staying close to the Battalion HQ located at Long Binh. The constant parceling out of its tank companies seldom left the battalion with more than one company under its own control. At some points it controlled none of its organic companies.

In 1967 the Battalion began to participate in larger combined arms operations. Operation Junction City, which began in the early part of March 1967, saw 2/34 AR conducting search and destroy operations as part of the 3rd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force.

On 21 March 1967, 2/34 Armor minus B Co distinguished itself in combat near the village of Soui Tre. Fire Support Base Gold, established only two days prior, had come under attack from the 272d Viet Cong Main Force Regiment consisting of over 1100 soldiers. In a four hour battle in which the Dreadnaughts helped turn an enemy victory into a defeat, 2/34 AR received its second Presidential Unit Citation. C Company stayed with the Battalion for the remainder of 1967.

On 1 August 1967 2/34 AR was reassigned to the 25th Infantry Division. On the eve of the Tet Offensive, the Fighting Aces began a series of moves that took it away from the Dreadnaught area of operations to the DMZ in the I Corp sector over 800 miles away. For the remainder of their time in Vietnam, the "Fighting Aces" were be attached to various units including the 101st Airborne Division, 1st Cavalry Division, 23rd Infantry Division, 5th Infantry Division, and the 3rd Marine Division. Charlie Company was assigned to 3rd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division and attached to Task Force Oregon from 1 August 1967 to 20 August 1967, where it earned the Valorous Unit Award for being involved in fierce fighting against well-fortified and prepared Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army (NVA) Regulars in the Quang Ngai Province. A Company remained with the Battalion HQ and conducted operations with the 25th Infantry Division until the Cambodian incursion.

In May of 1970, President Nixon ordered American units into the Cambodian sanctuaries in an attempt to destroy the communist supply lines and end the war. Alpha, Bravo, and Delta companies participated as part of Task Force Shoemaker, 1st Cavalry Division. A Co was the first American ground unit into Cambodia. For their actions in the area known as the "Fishhook" the battalion minus C Co received its first Valorous Unit Award. Delta company was inactivated after WWII but returned to life with 2/34th Armor in the middle of the Vietnam deployment to assist in the manning of the battalion due to two companies being "loaned" out. D Company was the company of support personnel with medics, cooks, mechanics, and other support specialty Soldiers. This in effect allowed more men to be assigned to the remaining companies within the Battalion.


They have also served with distinction in other conflicts. They have an excellent web site and you can find out more about the unit and its history here: http://www.2nd34tharmor.freeservers.com/index.htm


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Ted Zebrowsky 07-Aug-2022 22:35
I Posted Earlier but forgot something very important. I visited the 25th In Div museum in Hawaii last week. A pathetic excuse for a museum. The display portraying Vietnam and the Divisions role was terrible. There was not one mention of the role played by the 2nd Bn 34th Armor. You would think they would at least have an Armor display and talk about what we did in the Hobo Woods, Nui Bah Din, Boi loi woods, Iron Triangle and the many other contributions Armor made to the Divisions success. I was not very happy and I told the museum Director.
Ted Zebrowsky 07-Aug-2022 22:15
Ted Zebrowsky - A/2-34th Armor Jun 69 - Sep 70. Medivaced back to USA in Sep 1970. A Proud Dreadnaught who will always remember!!!!! Always wanted to know what happened to my loader (Jensen I Think) he was wounded on the same day. Love you guys. TZebrowsky@gmail.com
TED ZEBROWSKY 14-May-2022 18:54
TED ZEBROWSKY. I was with Co A 2-34th Armor 1969-1970. Medivaced from HOBO Woods in Sep 1970 back to the USA. I also participated in the Invasion of Cambodia. I'm very proud to have served as a Dreadnaught and regret not keeping in touch with all those I served with. Proud to be a Tanker!!
Alexis Salcedo 16-Oct-2021 04:06
Hi guys, My Father Angel Salcedo was in Co B 2nd Bn 34th Inf. in vietnam from apr 1967 to apr 1968, anyone with him there M113 APC? I found a website for the 2/34th inf that has all the missions, and KIA with dates, look for it on google 2nd34tharmor and you will find it. i cant post it here.
Daniel 27-Aug-2021 19:01
If anyone knew my grandfather Walter K Stolt.. Please contact me at dan.rennaker@gmail.com. I would love stories, pictures, memories...
Junior Underwood 12-Apr-2021 04:37
Junior Underwood Aco 68-69 wounded hobo woods remember all you guys I was on Toby Brant’s tank I have pictures of the old tank commanders good to hear from y’all
Jerry Savary 06-Apr-2021 13:58
Hello all. Like most people of my generation I am looking for more information of my dad and anyone that might knew him. He is still around but getting fuzzy with his memory. He served 67-68, 25th infantry, HHC 2d BN / 34th Armor. Was injured as he rolled over a IED and blew up the tank. There was a he can remember 2 others in the tank but could of been one more - he did have a medic with in it. Served in and about Cu Chi, Hobo Woods and some parts of Laos. He was injured on March 4, 1968 which sent him home with to massive breaks in his back. He did also serve a Tunnel Rat.
Jeff Edge 02-Jan-2021 22:49
Hello,
Looking for any information or pictures people might have of my dad. All the info I have from the letter he sent home list 2/34 as his unit. He would have been in Vietnam December 67 to December 68, name Donald Edge. He never really talked much about his service and he passed away too soon.

Thank you,
Jeff
john 08-Dec-2020 19:26
I drove a tank in B trp. 1/4 cav Was in major battle on May 5th 1968 just outside 1st div base camp. All day. C trp was called in to lend a hand. Looking for anyone who my have been there.
Bob Kelly 13-Oct-2020 18:24
I was proud to serve as the C Company Commander 2/34 in '67 - '68 and appreciated the opportunity to serve with the many fearless and professional members of the Company. Our Company was separated from the Batallion during this time and moved quite frequently after our initial move to the Dong Ha River. I remember clearly the day on which one of our tanks collapsed the bridge and members of the crew were severely injured. After they were evacuated I lost track of them and think often about how they are doing.they were McRae, Randall, Armstrong and Lefevre
Guest 08-Oct-2019 15:18
To Tom Prato: My tank was named Boog a Loo. We finally had to turn it in because it was in such bad condition. So the replacement tank was name Boog a Loo II.
If you want a picture of it let me know. orville@mi-homes.com
Don Hampton 22-Sep-2019 19:23
Don Hampton, Dreadnought 16, CO B, 2/34 Armour, LIA KHE 1968. Looking for Don Hall, lost arm in ambush 1968. We completed OCS together Ft Knox, KY.
Guest 15-Sep-2019 09:28
B company, 66-67 lost friends in Lai-,Khe, burnt alive inside their tank. I will never forget the smell
Tom P 06-Feb-2019 23:45
tom prato 16-Dec-2011 07:46
Looking for the tank that moved in to help the REACT platoon track #68 on April 18 1968 that was held down in a fierce fire fight at almost point blank range and we were takeing a heavy barrage of rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire. you will remember me,I was standing ontop of the track fixing my m60 machine gun, at the time I was covered in blood and looked at your tank moveing in to help us, you lowered the gun to almost ground level and fired round after round a few feet in front of our track with your 50 cal blazeing in the same direction, when I finished repareing my gun and ready to slip a new barrel on I seen it all in slow motion when your tank reared up in the air and the hatches blew open and all I seen was bloody faces leaping upward and then back down and then silence, no more fireing, my first thoughts were to jump off and help being I had tanker experience,within minuets I witnessed the tank commander rise out of the turret, you were drenched in blood and began fireing your external 50 cal like a mad man, I was able to finish fixing my 60 and began fireing inthe direction the RPGS came from that hit you,I will never forget your heroismn we were getting it from both sides, you took the rounds that should have taken a direct hit to our track, GOD only knows if you made it out alive because I shipped out days after the attack with know knowledge of what happened with everyone that day, our track commander could have pulled us back aways from the hail of rounds we were takeing but held our position at all costs fireing back from the 50 cal and Bill the gunner on the 60 opposwite me never quit fireing, I have seen your faces flying out of the hatchs almost all my life like as if it were yesterday, the rageing look on your face inspired me to keep on, we were called th BOOG-a LOU KIDS, my name on the shield was VEGAS KID with aces and eights above the name
JAMES W NAVAROLI 04-Jul-2018 17:34
JIM NAVAROLI C CO 68-69 SERVED ON M88 ARV. GOD BLESS YOU ALL AND I'M DAMN PROUD TO SERVE WITH THE BEST OUTFIT 2ND/34TH ARMOR!
Shane Keil 18-Apr-2018 16:22
Hello Dreadnaughts,

I'm the artifact collections manager for the First Division Museum at Cantigny and am interested in hearing from any Bravo company 2/34 veterans who served under the 1st Infantry Division in Vietnam. Looking for anyone with items from their service, uniform, patches, hat, souvenirs, etc. who is also interested in talking about their Vietnam service with 1/4 CAV and the 1ID. Thank You
Robert Benavidez (poncho 04-Apr-2018 20:46
Robert Benavidez co c 2/34armor I saw Juan Vasquez from my company 69-70 we were on the same tank glad to know your alive
Panzer Jeff 23-Mar-2018 09:36
Dreadnaught 'Charlie' shared my AO in '69-'70. They were hit badly in April or May, '70. I don't know which platoon. They often operated without infantry support...I always felt nervous for them and admired them.
Guest 15-Mar-2018 18:55
Jeff Garner- I was in Bravo from 4/67 - 4/68.
Joe Martinez 21-Feb-2018 18:58
Jose J Martinez Jr AKA the(Pimp) I was with B Co. Platoon Sgt Jimenez Tank stationed at
Lai Khe Aug 1966 - Aug 1967
William (bill) collinsworth 15-Jan-2018 19:12
was with 'c' co 2/34 armor first attached to 3/5 cav in dong ha then they moved us to Quang Tri was. attached to the 1/77th armor .till Nixon sent the 25th home.I was then sent to the 3/5 cav. our area of operation was cam lo, rock pile dmz ,Khe Gia bridge, Khe Sahn. my tour of duty ended 2/28/1971 when I got wounded
Jim Ninos 29-Dec-2017 17:09
2/34 Armor- wounded September 14, 1970, Help me remember
Donnie McMillan 28-Dec-2017 18:41
I was the Alpha 34 Driver 1972-1975 2/34th Armor "Dreadnaught" A. Co. Fort Carson, Colorado - Drove the Bn. Commander LTC Ainsworth & Bgd. Commander Gen. Monday as SP/4 Donald B. McMillan
Chuck Kostrzewa 07-Oct-2017 00:31
Chuck Kostrzewa...Doc, medic HHC RECON 1970. Emil Dular..it was a honor to serve in the field with you...my "facebook" is "chuck Kostrzewa"
Jonathan Moss 28-Sep-2017 12:57
Dreadnaughts! I'm reaching out for any history for Bravo Company, 2-34 Armor (currently Bulldawgs). We are recording our company history, and I'm curious to see what's out there. Additionally, tomorrow, we are celebrating the Dreadnaught's Anniversary. Anyone who has a story to share, we would love to have it. I'm also interested in former names the company has had(Battlin' Bravo), tank names, mottos, etc. I can be reached at jm82cu04@hotmail.com

Bulldawg 6
"Bite Hard, Never Let Go!"
Emil Dular 26-Apr-2017 20:08
I was a tank commander with HHC, Sep 1969 thru Sep 1970.
Sam Gillespie 04-Apr-2017 23:28
San Gillespie I was in D and A Co, July 68 to Dec 69
Larry Dahlka 23-Jan-2017 02:28
Larry Dahlka I was first with B co 2/2nd and then went TDY and then permanent with B-2/34th which was part of the 25th division then I de-rosed in September 1968.
russell pendley 15-Jan-2017 06:46
hc tank dreadnaught 66 1967-68
juan vazquez 12-Aug-2016 18:02
I was in c co. in 70 Ao DMZ looking for Rick Lowell or anyone who served.
Rick Russell 13-Apr-2016 15:48
I was in a Duster (M42) unit. We went over on a ship called the "Geiger". Landed in Vung Tau sometime in Sept. of 1966. I think we shared a base camp with the 2/34th armor. This was a small base camp, not actually in Long Binh. Not too far off of the main road and near a village. We went on a foot patrol outside the camp and one of our guys (Chester Freeman) was killed by a sniper. Some APCs came out and rescued us. Does anyone remember this base camp, it's name and location? Thanks.
bill schwindt 07-Apr-2016 19:53
arnold smith, please email me at c322Locate@aol.com. we're finding all 2/34th armor guys from Vietnam, didn't have your name until saw your message just yesterday.bill schwindt, 2/34th locator
Terry Ellis 02-Mar-2016 18:48
Ron Hall did you take Basic and AIT training at Fort Carson, CO in the Fall/Winter of 1966/1967? (1st of the 77tth)
I was trained on a bridge tank in April of 1968 by John(?)Shirley in Vietnam. Does
anyone know anything about John?
Arnold Smith 29-Sep-2015 02:22
Arnold Smith
I was First Sergeant D company April to August 1970, D company was the Support for the Battalion. The Battalion Support during the Cambodian incursions were very extensive.

Bill Wolf 26-Sep-2015 02:51
Hwy 13 Thunder Road had many FSBs. I was with Charlie 2/18 at Christmas of '69.
We had just finished building a FSB on Thunder Road. Does anybody know what number that was?
Guest 12-Jun-2015 18:46
TO Bruce. I was called 'Squirrel'. I was the driver on Alpha 35 in '69. My tank took an RPG in the turret just above, right of the drivers hatch. My TC was Sgt. Eagle, he was hit in the face. Loader was Jim Harvey, Chicago. I think it was in the HoBo woods. Nice place.
David counts 25-May-2015 20:27
FROM David Counts -1970 - FYI - CPT Dale Richardson, Sp4 Rodney Griffin and Sgt Bunyan Price who all went missing on 2 May 70 in Cambodia have all been located and their remains identified and returnees to their families. God bless all my Brothers from the 2nd/34th
james 04-May-2015 00:29
i was in c co in 67&68 with MCCray,Randall,Armstrong,& doc lefevre when the tank fell through the bridge at camp Birmingham
R. Dennis Putnam 30-Nov-2014 04:24
Michael Wade,
I was on the tank you were assigned to when you first got to LaiKhe. I was on the tank with you when we hit that mine, along with John Carpino driver, and someone else I can't remember. My name is Dennis Putnam, I was a Sgt at that time, and you took over the tank I was on. Be good to hear from you. I have a picture of our tank after the mine.
Good to hear your around, and I hope to hear from you.
JOHN VARELLIE 27-Oct-2014 17:25
Iwas the tank commander on A-33 from 5/68 to 5/69 saw my share. I have been trying to find PFC Jim Heard my loader, and a Sgt who had the nickname of CC Rider who I replaced. The Plt Ldr was 2LT Robert Donovan KIA in the hobo Woods 5/68. The Plt. Sgt. was SFC Joe Burch, my Driver was SP4 Ben Beach, The First Sgt. Was Ken Sammons and the rest of the names are a blur some 46 years later. To all my Dreadnaught Brothers I wish you well. May you all put Nam behind you and live your lives. God Bless the 2/34th Forever
Rober Pryor 21-Sep-2014 03:38
I was with A co 68-69
Rober Pryor 19-Jul-2014 07:11
I was with Aco 2/34th Armor from 68to69 Cu chi and I was proud to serve in that unit and all all the guys that served with me and to those that made it back welcome home brothers
TomRecktenwald 27-Jun-2014 17:18
WOODY GRIMES!! Get in touch so we can catch up.
Ive been looking for some of you guys.
Tom40517@gmail.com
G Gill 17-Jun-2014 04:22
I have written on the site in the past but several comments about the invasion into Cambodia. My unit, A Co. 2/34th Armor went into Cambodia with 2/47th Panthers from 9th ID. We are credited with being the first American ground troops into Cambodia but whether we were or not, we were effective and successful. I remember it all from the mud of Komtum to the rubber plantations, busting bush and NVA basecamps. SSG Higginbotham was our Platoon Sergeant and acting Platoon Leader, SSG Edd Cameron was my tank commander (A-22) and Captain Marvin Tieman was the A Company Commander. Each one of the leaders that I mentioned performed in an outstanding manner. Although names have faded from memory, the knowledge of the outstanding performance our leaders and men on badly battered and misused M-48 tanks will always be in my thoughts when I think of this operation. I will always be proud of the performance of my fellow Dreadnaughts during our time in Cambodia, as well as, the performance of the 2/47th Panthers.
MIchael Wade 04-Jun-2014 17:48
Jusr found this website today (4 June 2014). I served as 1st platoon leader, Co B, 2/34 Armor from about March to October 1967. I need to correct part of an above entry that states: "Bravo co. was attached to 1/4 Cavalry of the 1st Infantry Division at Phu Loi, where it would remain until the invasion of Cambodia in 1970". When I arrived at Co B in March '67, it was indeed atttached to 1/4 Cav in Phu Loi. However I had only been with the co. about 6 weeks when we moved to Lai Kai and the cav troop that had been at Lai Kai rejoined 1/4 squadron in Phu Loi. During my entire time as a platoon leader, I only worked for the co. cdr about 6 weeks. I spent the majority of my time under the OPCON of other units, including a searchlght co., a duster battery but mostly working with 2/2 Inf and mostly with its Co B. This was also true for the other two platoons in B/2/34- usually operating as attached platoons . Shortly after arriving I was wounded in a mine explosion while leading a resupply convoy at an area we used to call "Claymore Corner", . I can't speak to what happened with co B after I left to go to bn in the fall of 1967. At that time bn was part of the 25th inf div in Tay Ninh and I spent the remainder of my tour in the S3 shop sitting at Prek Klok, just soutg of the border with Cambodia. .
Guest 17-Feb-2014 23:35
A co. 2/34 orphans...march 20 1968 to march 20 1969...my name is Danny Rallens,,i remember it all...Sgt.Burch....Duncan, Jim Norman Roe Hoe. Johnny Rose from Texas... JJ...JD..Medic Melvin Minton...Jim Byrd..Joe Layton...Lt.Donavon Kia....Skavoni...Castro..Sgt..Elliet 1st Sgt Tay Ninh..Sgt Cherry...CC Rider Texas..Big blond guy surfer from California..,,Elvis Jr underwood..Very happy many of us made it back...Be Happy.....many didn't...good health to all...your brother Danny
woodygrimes 05-Feb-2014 03:04
WOODYGRIMES A COMPANY 2/34 1967-1968 ==ALPHA 2/3 WAS MY TANK= SGT SHEPARD WAS THE T/C AND I REMEMBER U TOM RECKTENWALD AND SGT GUNN// WE ALL WERE TOGETHER. GOD BLESS,
Les Thomas 01-Jan-2014 04:11
Just today found this site. (12/31/13) I was with B co.2nd 34th from Ft Irwin in Jan 1966. Deployed on the "infamous" troop ship "Barret". The Armour assigned to go with company got hurt in auto accident, and I was assigned to take his place. Rode on M88 with Skillman 1966 thur Dec 1967. Many, many good people in all companies and I wish all well and good health.
Dennis Gleason 13-Nov-2013 04:59
When Nixon invaded Cambodia in 1970, I was in Boot camp at Fort Lewis, Washington. In Jan. 1971, I went to Fort Knox for advanced tank training. Originally, there were twenty-eight of us from Oregon, but only three volunteered for armor. We were told to forget about going to Vietnam. The last eighteen cycles had gone to Germany and we could count on drinking German beer by June of '71. But then, an Brigade of Infantry and Armor was ambushed returning form Cambodia. Not sure of their designation number, but four hundred of us were immediately drafted into a four week course in Seridan tanks and our orders were changed from drinking beer on the Rhine to swatting humminbird sized mosquitos in Vietnam. On the next to last day of Sheridan training, I blew out my left knee so severely that I was discharged under medical conditions. Two months later, in March 1971, five Sheridans from the 11th ACR were lost in one day to RPG fire, all five vehicles burst into flames and were totally destroyed. Five of the eleven guys in my bay at Fort Knox were killed that day. I was back in Oregon by then and got the word several weeks after their deaths. Now, I realize that my story probably has nothing to do with the brave soldiers of the 34 Armor, but I have carried a burden of guilt all these years for those that sacrificed with their lives so that I could carry on with mine. I'm older now and hopefully much wiser and my buddies that never came home are forever young and never forgotten.
Treadhead68 31-Aug-2013 02:24
I also thank you Dave, for your comments. I was in B Co. In Lai Khe, May 67- May 68. One thing about it, we had some interesting times while I was there( isn't there an old Chinese curse that goes, " May you live in interesting times?". I remember running Hwy 13 at night, searchlight on and trying to intercept NVA soldiers trying to get back into Cambodia. That was a very INTERESTING time!
Pat Forster 21-Apr-2013 20:35
I just found this site 5 years late. Tell you what, we did our best. That's a continuing theme throughout the 5 years of these messages. Especially revealing is the story by Tom Prato who was from a mech infantry unit fighting with us but bailed out by an unnamed tank crew. Our guys from Tet and 1968 have not written much about their tours, no doubt painful memories to relive. That was two years before I got there but they make me proud to have fought with the 2/34th. Pat Forster, president, Ltpat234@hotmail.com;
Bob Trevison 21-Apr-2013 07:14
From: bowlerbobt@aol.com - My name is Bob Trevison, I was part of the advanced party for the arrival of our Battalion (2-34 Armor)in the summer of 1966.I served on C-24 with SFC Yanez our Platoon Sergeant. Lt Dorn was our Platoon Leader the night SSG Hill, SP4 Castro and others were KIA. I Was wounded that night and according to 1SG Martin I was to receive the Bronze Star for Valor and a Purple Heart, Never received either and didn't really care back then. But, for the past 15 years or so my family has encouraged me to persue the awards. I talked to 1SG Martin before he passed away and confirmed the awards were submitted, thats all he would say, he really didn't want to relive Vietnam through conversation. The awards were for actions that night. We (my platoon)was in the perimeter (our tank was broke down with the pack on the ground)along with the 2nd platoon and company command section. We ran out of ammo and 1SG Martin and I humped ammo delivered by chopper (during the battle)from tank to tank. That's when I was hit by mortar fire. My wounds were not life threatening so I refused evacuation, that is wear I probably errored. I was nick named "TV/Television" by 1SG Martin because he always had trouble pronouncing my name. Is there anyone out there that remembers anything about that March, 1966 night. I need some help! I ended up staying in service and retired some 21 years later. God Bless to all that served in that hell hole. There is not a day that goes by I don't think about my tour over there and all my comrades, I love and miss you guys very much. Thanks, Bob
Ronald F McRae 08-Apr-2013 07:08
To Ralph Arvizu, My name is Ronald F McRae, in C Co. the Fighting Aces 66-67.
Was in the battle of Soui Tre (L.Z.Gold). Where our tank platoon caught elements of Viet Cong 272 Reg. in the open attacking our infantry / artillary units that were surrouned.

In a night battle where VC units tried to overrun our tank only company position. Saw your tank hit by RPG. Where T/C Sgt Hill, Medic Byer, were killed. Joe Verra died a few days later from burns after being medi vac. Only you and Dave Carson made it out.

Been trying to find out what happened to Dave Carson for years after he was sent to Japan for burns. I think he survived?

It's been 40+ years. But the Vietnam travesty doesn't seem all that long ago
for me.
tom recktenwald 18-Jan-2013 19:22
I was on A25 in april 67 to 68. Tank comander was ssg gunn. I just don't remember a lot of names anymore.
Guest 09-Jan-2013 22:17
I was in the scout platoon, csc stationed at Ft. Carson, Co. 1975-76...
stephen gayle 16-Sep-2012 02:16
Meet a vet at MIA funeral today in ElReno, OK...gave me the site information. I was in RVN 11-68 to 04-70 with 25th inf. i served 1st part of tour with 25th S&T and then the later with the 2nd 34th armor. did duty at 'rock crusher' & 'fire base buell' as crew on m88 and wheelwrecker operator... i remember well the day 'rock crusher' was cleared and we all left. the later months of 2/34 assignment was as a tank (m48a3) driver....got my ets as unit was making prep to go into cambodia...the best chopper ride of my life. took a few photos while in country...hard to believe i was ever that young.
bruce 08-Jul-2012 23:29
squirrel I think I know you I was with Bravo campany iremember the pictures you had from the damage from the RPM
Bruce 'jet' jetsecl
Guest 12-Jun-2012 12:53
I was a Platoon Leader (M1A1) in A/2-34 ("Orphans") at Fort Riley from 2002-2003. Thank you all for your service and the insight into the "Dreadnaughts" role in Vietnam
Charles Coldren 20-Mar-2012 21:25
You are correct we had M48's, I was with C Co 2/34 - The Fighting Aces - April 67/68 - Track commander call sign 7 Alpha (1st track) later became 50 Yankee .
Ralph Arvizu 07-Mar-2012 23:02

I was with C Co 2/34th Armor. I went over on USNS Barrett after 21 sick days. Arrived Vung Tau on 10 Sept. 1966. I took basic with C Co 2/34th Armor in Ft. Irwin Feb.-Apr. 1966. I was the driver on C-33 and my tank was hit with an RPG on 1 Mar. 1967--killed T.C. Sgt. Hill, Medic Byers, burned gunner Carson (evacuated to Japan)and I was evacuated to the hospital in Long Binh. We were set up very close to Dau Tieng. We got hit by the 271st NVA Regiment and fought them from about midnight to about 5:30 in the morning. Sgt. Hill, God Bless his Soul, was one of the best if not the best Tank Commanders in 34th Armor. He had cut his teeth in Germany and in Korea before taking us raw draftee recruits to Vietnam. He could make that 50 Cal. machine gun---TALK!!! His anniversary was just last week--1 March and I had 4 shots of Tequila in his honor and the rest of the crew. It was a pleasure working with all you gallant men of THE BIG RED ONE! Here!, Here! Ralph Arvizu
tom prato 16-Dec-2011 07:46
Looking for the tank that moved in to help the REACT platoon track #68 on April 18 1968 that was held down in a fierce fire fight at almost point blank range and we were takeing a heavy barrage of rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire. you will remember me,I was standing ontop of the track fixing my m60 machine gun, at the time I was covered in blood and looked at your tank moveing in to help us, you lowered the gun to almost ground level and fired round after round a few feet in front of our track with your 50 cal blazeing in the same direction, when I finished repareing my gun and ready to slip a new barrel on I seen it all in slow motion when your tank reared up in the air and the hatches blew open and all I seen was bloody faces leaping upward and then back down and then silence, no more fireing, my first thoughts were to jump off and help being I had tanker experience,within minuets I witnessed the tank commander rise out of the turret, you were drenched in blood and began fireing your external 50 cal like a mad man, I was able to finish fixing my 60 and began fireing inthe direction the RPGS came from that hit you,I will never forget your heroismn we were getting it from both sides, you took the rounds that should have taken a direct hit to our track, GOD only knows if you made it out alive because I shipped out days after the attack with know knowledge of what happened with everyone that day, our track commander could have pulled us back aways from the hail of rounds we were takeing but held our position at all costs fireing back from the 50 cal and Bill the gunner on the 60 opposwite me never quit fireing, I have seen your faces flying out of the hatchs almost all my life like as if it were yesterday, the rageing look on your face inspired me to keep on, we were called th BOOG-a LOU KIDS, my name on the shield was VEGAS KID with aces and eights above the name.
G. Gill 16-May-2011 02:36
Forty one years ago this month (May) A Co. 2/34th Armor was spearheading the most successful military operantion of the war: the invasion into Cambodia. Outstanding men on battered equipment. Best group of guys that I ever served with, especially my tank commander, SSG Ed Cameron.
Brent Nelson 14-Apr-2011 23:05
I was in A company from July 1970 until the 25th Infantry Division returned to Hawaii in November 1970
Dave Berry19-Feb-2011 06:08
I believe that was an M48A3 "Patton" tank.
Dan Greenberg18-Feb-2011 16:59
Excellent capture Dave. What kind of tank is this? Again - entries to this gallery are always fascinating especially reading the comments of all the guys that were there.
Squirrel 24-Jan-2011 00:16
I was a driver in Alpha Co., track 35 Starting in Jly 69. My first TC was named Eagle. Anyone remember either one of us? Eagle was medi-vaced out of the HoBo woods. We took an RPG to the turret just above the drivers hatch. It was during a day long fight against a batallion basecamp.
Rian Ebesugawa 13-Jul-2010 20:08
I am trying to locate a photo of Minoru Tanaka who was killed on Nov. 26, 1967. He was in recon with the 2/34 armor. I am trying to find a picture to use in a memorial and to give a copy to his daughter and grandchildren. Any help you be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
richard cieszinski 03-May-2010 21:51
i was a platoon leader in B company first platoon working North of LiaKhe in early 1968 until Aug of 68--I am looking for the company commander--Capt Rudel--anyone have contact info---would love to hear from anyone from the old group
foy m long 26-Mar-2010 18:13
I was the plt sgt of the 1st plt 34th armor at lai khe . I was sent to lai khe in oct 67 to take over plt because the other plt sgt and crew got killed whin a rpg hit the side of the tank and set the wp rounds off and killed the crew we went ever place we excorded convoys gurded jungle plows ans did S&D MESSION WITHE THE 16, 18 ;AND 26 INF ALLWERE PART OF THE 1ST INF DIV i ELET IN OCT 68 AND CAME BACK FOR RETIRMENT i AM NOW 78 YRS OLD ANY ONE REMBER ME BACK IN THOSE DAYS SEND ME A E- MAIL MESSAGE AT FML1931@windstream.net thank you fm long
Richard Cowan 06-Jan-2010 17:36
Hi, Dave
Welcome back! Thanks for the photos. I was with B Co, then HHC as the S-1 clerk at Fort Irwin. The 2/34 went to Vietnam in the USNS General Barret. We arrived September 10, 1966 and disembarked at Vung Tau. In October 1966 I transfered to C Co. I have many memories of the M48A1E3 and our missions; Cedar Falls, were the 2/34 distinguished itself and won a Presidential Unit Citation; Junction City; Tay Ninh; Cu Chi..... Thanks to all my brothers who have served in the 2/34, for all that they did and gave.

From this day to the ending of the world,
But we in it shall be remembered, -
We few, we happy few, we band of brothers;
For he today that sheds his blood with me
Shall be my brother.
Lorentz Larsen 12-Nov-2009 21:17
Hey Dave, I was with B co. at Lia Khe in 67 and 68 wounded Mar 15,1968 during Tet!
Lorentz Larsen
Roy Bailey 15-Jul-2009 20:22
Is this Beavers from Tulsa, Ok?
Guest 04-May-2009 17:03
Ed Beaver
I was with D Co, mechanic and M88 crew and TC May 68 to Dec 69. Wounded at base of Black Virgin.
ron hall 13-Mar-2009 16:45
R Hall I served in the Headquater Company Tank Platoon in 1968 in Cu Chi. Many memories of the M48A3 Tank and missions their. Many of my buddies were wounded and a large percentage of the tanker classifications were KIA. Tankers had one of the highest KIA rates for any MOS. May their souls rest in PEACE!
Dave Berry24-Apr-2008 06:50
2/34th Armor was a highly decorated and very much respected unit. Thank you for all that you did and the sacrifices you made.
Dave Berry
Mike Walsh 24-Apr-2008 06:00
Recon Platoon, 2/34th Armor. Wounded Feb 29th, Tet 68
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