Tom Dolan, Author at Tulane Naval ROTC Alumni Association

Lieutenant Commander Michael Dallas Chalfant, Jr – Class of 1988

Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:41:35-05:00

Lieutenant Commander Michael Dallas Chalfant, Jr., 36, died Tuesday night, September 10th, 2002 in a military plane accident while serving his country. Totally devoted, loving husband, father, and son, he served honorably in the United States Navy for 14 ¸ years. Lieutenant Commander Chalfant was born in Sumter, SC and graduated from The Landon School in Washington, DC. He is a 1988 graduate of Tulane University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in business. While attending Tulane, he was a member of the Navy ROTC and precision parade drill team. Michael received his wings as a Naval Flight [...]

Lieutenant Commander Michael Dallas Chalfant, Jr – Class of 1988Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:41:35-05:00

Lt Bruce E. Pommer – Class of 1983

Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:18:47-05:00

Date: 20-MAY-1987 Time: night Type: Grumman A-6E Intruder Owner/operator: VA-85, US Navy Registration: 161685 C/n / msn: I-662 Fatalities: Fatalities: 2 / Occupants: 2 Other fatalities: 0 Aircraft damage: Written off (damaged beyond repair) Location: Stumpy Point, North Carolina - United States of America Phase: Manoeuvring (airshow, firefighting, ag.ops.) Nature: Military Departure airport: NAS Oceana, Virginia Beach, VA (NTU/KNTU) Destination airport: NAS Oceana, Virginia Beach, VA (NTU/KNTU) Narrative: A-6E Intruder BuNo. 161685/AA-501 of VA-85, US Navy, based at Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach. Crashed May 20, 1987 into a heavily wooded area at a Navy bombing range at Stumpy [...]

Lt Bruce E. Pommer – Class of 1983Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:18:47-05:00

Lt Jg Kenneth Bates – Class of 1976

Lt Jg Kenneth Bates – Class of 1976

Tom Dolan2021-03-31T12:04:20-05:00

On December 12, 1979 at about 4:00A.M., Navy Lieutenant J.G. Ken Bates was killed when the Grumman A-6 aircraft he piloted, NG523, Bureau Number 151566, pitched violently and suddenly into the ocean about 100 miles off San Diego immediately after having been catapult-launched from the aircraft carrier Constellation. The crash occurred within two to three seconds after launch and within several hundred feet forward of the bow of the Constellation. Neither the bodies of Lieutenant Shaw and bombardier-navigator Lieutenant Bates nor the wreckage of NG523 were ever recovered.

Lt Jg Kenneth Bates – Class of 1976Tom Dolan2021-03-31T12:04:20-05:00

Two Tours VA-86

Tom Dolan2019-11-09T09:38:49-06:00

Steve Bratton I completed A-4 training and detached from VA-44 [Naval Air Station Cecil Field, Florida on October 5, 1965. Ten days later, on October 15, 1965 I flew my first combat mission over North Vietnam. My first Vietnam deployment was in 1965. I was assigned to Attack Squadron [VA] 86 [Sidewinders] and flew A-4 Skyhawks off the USS Independence CV-62. In 1968 I deployed again, still assigned to VA-86 and flew the A-7 Corsair II off the USS America CV-66. Class: 1963 Degree: BA Service: USN Years of Service: 1963-1969 Years in Vietnam: 1965 [...]

Two Tours VA-86Tom Dolan2019-11-09T09:38:49-06:00

2nd LT Joe E Allen – Class of 1967

2nd LT Joe E Allen – Class of 1967

Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:44:27-05:00

1945 - 1968 The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Joe E. Allen (MCSN: 0-103089), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company D, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the evening of 24 May 1968, Second Lieutenant Allen's platoon established an ambush on a suspected enemy infiltration route in Thua Thien Province. Alertly observing a numerically superior [...]

2nd LT Joe E Allen – Class of 1967Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:44:27-05:00

Delta Battery, Second Battalion, Eleventh Marines

Tom Dolan2019-10-24T12:46:06-05:00

Captain J. Carlos Indest, III I was commissioned as a second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps in August 1965. After finishing Marine Officer Basic School at Quantico, I attended Field Artillery School at Fort Sill, OK. In June 1966, I was deployed to Viet Nam and joined Delta Battery, Second Battalion, Eleventh Marines. I was then assigned to the First Battalion Fifth Marines as an Artillery Forward Observer. I served as a Forward Observer until mid-August 1966 when the First Battalion Fifth Marines engaged in battle with an NVA Force. Our Battalion had [...]

Delta Battery, Second Battalion, Eleventh MarinesTom Dolan2019-10-24T12:46:06-05:00

Noah H. Long – Class of 1965

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:25:40-05:00

Noah H. Long Class of 1965. USN. 31 years service, 5 years active duty, 26 years reserve duty. Retired as Rear Admiral. Served two tours RVN as Company Commander in Mobile Construction Battalion [MCB] 133. Vietnam related awards include: Navy Commendation Medal w/combat “V” and 2 gold Stars In lieu of 2nd and 3rd award, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Civic Action Unit Citation, and Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation. Noah H Long Oral History RADM Noah H. Long Flag Officer Entry

Noah H. Long – Class of 1965Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:25:40-05:00

Bruce Ludwig – Class of 1967

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:26:14-05:00

Bruce B. Ludwig Class of 1967 USN. Retired after full career. Most of career in Destroyers. 1 tour RVN in country.

Bruce Ludwig – Class of 1967Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:26:14-05:00

3rd Amtrac Battalion, First Marine Division located at Marble Mountain

Tom Dolan2019-10-10T10:49:38-05:00

Colonel Kenneth R. Burns (Ret.) Following graduation from The Basic School at Quantico I was designated an Amphibian Vehicle Officer, and assigned to 1st Marine Division, Vietnam, with Amphibious Vehicle School, Camp Pendleton in route. Prior to the completion of school my orders were changed and I was directed to report as a Platoon Commander to the recently formed Fifth Amphibian Vehicle (Amtrac) Battalion. Like any hard charging Second Lieutenant I questioned the wisdom of this change, and was told that my NROTC four year obligation gave them an extra year to control my destiny. [...]

3rd Amtrac Battalion, First Marine Division located at Marble MountainTom Dolan2019-10-10T10:49:38-05:00

James William Barnes – Class of 1944

Tom Dolan2019-10-09T10:28:51-05:00

11-14-2007 James William (Bill) Barnes died after a short illness on November 14, 2007 at 83 years of age. Born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania he was the son of Frank Holman Barnes and Phyllis Godson Barnes Markley, both immigrants from London, England. Bill was a resident of the New Orleans, Louisiana area for most of his life before moving to Jackson, Mississippi in 1984. Bill completed Lusher Grammar School and graduated from Jesuit High School in 1941. Upon graduating from Jesuit, Bill enrolled in Tulane University studying electrical engineering. He participated in the Navy ROTC program and prior [...]

James William Barnes – Class of 1944Tom Dolan2019-10-09T10:28:51-05:00

Radar Intercept Officer (RIO) on the USS Kitty Hawk

Tom Dolan2019-09-28T14:39:29-05:00

William F Font I was a Radar Intercept Officer, flying F-4 Phantoms. My Fighter Squadron, VF-114 was deployed on the USS Kitty Hawk. Our Vietnam cruise was November 1967 to June 1968. Awards include: Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, RVN Campaign Medal Editor Note Kitty Hawk [CVA-63] was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for exceptionally meritorious and heroic service from 23 December 1967 to 1 June 1968, which included the Tet Offensive, while participating in combat operations in Southeast Asia. William F Font, Class of 1966, BS Biology Years in Service: 1966-1970 / Years in [...]

Radar Intercept Officer (RIO) on the USS Kitty HawkTom Dolan2019-09-28T14:39:29-05:00

Judge Thomas C. Wicker, Jr. (ret) – Class of 1944

Tom Dolan2022-06-28T14:12:57-05:00

I graduated from Tulane in Feb 1944 with a BBA degree, was commissioned an ensign on the same day and received orders to report aboard the USS LACKAWANNA (AO40) at about the same time. While aboard the LACKAWANNA, my ship participated in the Hollandia campaign, Saipan, Guam, Battle of the Philippine Sea, invasion of the Philippines, Okinawa and was among the first ships to enter Tokyo Bay after the surrender by Japan. After returning home and inactive duty in the Navy, I enter the Tulane Law School in September 1946 and graduated in June 1949. One of my early [...]

Judge Thomas C. Wicker, Jr. (ret) – Class of 1944Tom Dolan2022-06-28T14:12:57-05:00

LCDR Byron K. Miller – Instructor 1968

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:28:24-05:00

LCDR Bryon K. Miller was a Tulane NROTC Staff Instructor in 1968. Originally from Blackville, South Carolina, Miller is a 1951 NROTC graduate from the University of South Carolina with a B. A. Business Administration. He received his wings in 1953 after serving two years in the fleet. Prior to reporting to Tulane Mr. Miller was flying VP aircraft out of Japan and the West Coast including a deployment to Vietnam where he earned the Air Medal for combat missions flown out of Saigon and participation in operation "Market Time." Mr. Miller, departed Tulane on the third of June for [...]

LCDR Byron K. Miller – Instructor 1968Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:28:24-05:00

Commissioning 2019

Commissioning 2019

Tom Dolan2019-09-13T16:16:38-05:00

Congratulations to the Class of 2019!!! The Navy Building on the campus of Tulane University was the site of the 2019 commissioning. Six men and women received their commissions in the Navy and Marine Corps. The ceremony began at 9:30 AM with the Marching On and the National Anthem. Captain Fred Holcombe, Chaplain for Marine Forces Reserve, gave the Invocation. The Professor of Naval Science, Captain D. Senesky, welcomed all guest and honorees. He said this occasion marked an impressive celebration of accomplishment for the students and the staff. He recognized special attendees including Captain Patrick Huete, USN Ret, former [...]

Commissioning 2019Tom Dolan2019-09-13T16:16:38-05:00

Notre Dame Leadership Conference 2019

Tom Dolan2019-09-13T13:06:32-05:00

The Alumni Association, through generous donations from various members, was able to sponsor two midshipmen to attend the Notre Dame Leadership Conference in South Bend, Indiana. MIDN 2/C Trusty and MIDN 2/C Mastendino came away with a wonderful learning experience and gave special thanks to alumni sponsors John Stelly, James McGowan, and Fritz Teuscher. From 7-10 February 2019, the two midshipmen joined their peers from around the country. They heard speakers from all walks of the military life and gained greater insights into what is happening in the world as related to the military—particularly the Navy and Marine Corps—and some [...]

Notre Dame Leadership Conference 2019Tom Dolan2019-09-13T13:06:32-05:00

Hail and Farewell to Unit Officers

Hail and Farewell to Unit Officers

Tom Dolan2022-06-28T11:06:03-05:00

Farewell and Following Seas The Unit Staff said Farewell to four members, as they depart for new adventures:. MSgt Bryan Smith, Asst Marine Officer Instructor LT Nicholas Munns:, Freshman and Submarine Advisor Capt. Donald Meyer, Marine Officer Instructor LT Crystal Gonzales, Sophomore & Surface Warfare Advisor Hail and Welcome Aboard The Unit Staff has Hailed new staff members as they begin their latest assignments: LT Carlos Thillet - Junior and Surface Warfare Advisor LT Jeremy Jorge – Freshman & Submarine Warfare Advisor Capt. Dorinda Pintos – Marine Officer Instructor [...]

Hail and Farewell to Unit OfficersTom Dolan2022-06-28T11:06:03-05:00

Naval ROTC Awards and Change of Command 2019

Naval ROTC Awards and Change of Command 2019

Tom Dolan2019-09-13T16:20:11-05:00

Early morning on 9 April, 2019, the Tulane NROTC Battalion formed up on the Tulane University Center Quad for the annual Change of Command and Awards Ceremony. The Change of Command was the first order of business with Midn 1/C William Pankey being relieved of command and Midn 2/C Samuel Beal taking the helm as the new Battalion Commander. A Pass in Review impressed the crowd gathered for the event. The midshipmen then fell into a close formation for the Awards Ceremony. The Alumni Association presented our two awards, the LCDR Jack Wintle and the General Robert H. Barrow Awards, [...]

Naval ROTC Awards and Change of Command 2019Tom Dolan2019-09-13T16:20:11-05:00

Earl Higgins(63) Pens a New Book

Earl Higgins(63) Pens a New Book

Tom Dolan2022-06-28T11:13:40-05:00

Pelican Publishers approached Earl Higgins, class of 1963, a few years ago and asked him to write a new book. They wanted to put out a 100 Catholic list to join their 100 Jewish list. Thus was born 100 Catholic Things to Do Before You Die. Earl was an English major at Tulane who went on to get a law degree. After retiring from both the Navy and the US Court of Appeals, he is now a ranger at Jean Lafitte National Park and an author. His other books are Metairie, Ames, High: The Streets of Jefferson Parish and The [...]

Earl Higgins(63) Pens a New BookTom Dolan2022-06-28T11:13:40-05:00

Robert Morris – Class of 1959

Tom Dolan2020-07-25T12:09:46-05:00

Name Robert Morris Class 1959 Service USMC [Aviator] Rank LtCol Retired with 20 years of service VN War Flew 400 missions during mostly with VMFA-115

Robert Morris – Class of 1959Tom Dolan2020-07-25T12:09:46-05:00

Dr James Michael McClurkan – 1965

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:27:54-05:00

James Michael McClurkan [Deceased]Senior Medical Student, Commissioned with NROTC class of 1965Retired as Captain USN Medical CorpsOfficial USN photo shows him wearing RVN Campaign MedalEditor Note Captain McClurkan’s obituary referenced his service inVietnam as a “medic” prior to his selection to study to be a Navy Doctor.This would place him in Vietnam sometime around 1961. It would also explainHis wearing the RVN Campaign Medal [service between 1961-1973]but not the RVN Service Medal [service between 1965-1973]News article about his death

Dr James Michael McClurkan – 1965Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:27:54-05:00

Kenneth W. Moore, MOI 1975-1977

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:28:50-05:00

Kenneth W. Moore Marine Officer Instructor [MOI] 1975-1977 RVN tour 1967. Awards include Silver Star, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal. https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/40817

Kenneth W. Moore, MOI 1975-1977Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:28:50-05:00

Paul Daigle – Class of 1967

Tom Dolan2019-10-11T16:49:56-05:00

November 6, 2017 Paul Reginald Daigle, 72 passed away on Monday, November 6, 2017. Interment was at a later date at St. Bernard Cemetery No. 2 in Breaux Bridge. A 1967 Tulane Naval ROTC graduate, Mr. Daigle was a Marine during the Vietnam War. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, gardening, and riding around on his tractor. He cherished moments spent with his family and friends, especially his beloved dogs. He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Marjorie Brewer Daigle of Breaux Bridge; daughter, Susan Elizabeth Hodge and husband Johnny of Breaux Bridge; sons, [...]

Paul Daigle – Class of 1967Tom Dolan2019-10-11T16:49:56-05:00

Judge Thomas C Wicker (44) Recipient of Scott Cowen Service Award

Judge Thomas C Wicker (44) Recipient of Scott Cowen Service Award

Tom Dolan2022-06-28T14:29:36-05:00

On Saturday, April 6, 2019 in the US Freedom Pavilion of the National World War II Museum, the Honorable Thomas C. Wicker, Jr. (RET) was awarded the Scott Cowen Service Award for exceptional contributions to Tulane University and the community. The setting was a fitting location as Judge Wicker is a charter member of the National World War II Museum. He is a member of the Tulane NROTC Class of 1944 and is a long-time Board Member of the Tulane NROTC Alumni Association. Thomas Wicker graduated from Tulane University with a Bachelor degree in Business Administration in 1944. He was [...]

Judge Thomas C Wicker (44) Recipient of Scott Cowen Service AwardTom Dolan2022-06-28T14:29:36-05:00

Jim Hunter (76) Awarded Doctor of Ministry

Jim Hunter (76) Awarded Doctor of Ministry

Tom Dolan2022-06-28T11:20:58-05:00

Jim Hunter informed us that he was awarded the Doctor of Ministry degree from Trinity Episcopal School for Ministry, Ambridge, Pennsylvania on May 11, 2019 at 10 am. It was a perfectly beautiful, sunny, cool day (it rains more days than not in Western Pennsylvania). His wife, Jeannine, was able to see the campus for the first time. Jim's thesis is titled Confirmation, Community, and Commitment: Evaluating Church Attendance at the Episcopal Church of St. Mary, Albuquerque, New Mexico. He had been working on the thesis for six years (2013-2019), while working full-time. "I am still not over the fact [...]

Jim Hunter (76) Awarded Doctor of MinistryTom Dolan2022-06-28T11:20:58-05:00

David M. Rains – 1967

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:40:53-05:00

Assigned to the Mobile Riverine Force (MRF) (after May 1967), initially designated Mekong Delta Mobile Afloat Force, and later the Riverines. This joint US Army and US Navy force comprised a substantial part of the brown-water navy. It was modeled after lessons learned by the French experience in the First Indochina War and had the task of both transport (of soldiers and equipment) and combat. The primary base was at Đồng Tâm Base Camp, with a floating base at the base of the Mekong River. MRF played a key role in the Tet Offensive. Đồng Tâm Base [...]

David M. Rains – 1967Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:40:53-05:00

Homer Gray Hutchinson III – Class of 1966

Homer Gray Hutchinson III – Class of 1966

Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:39:41-05:00

May 8,2002 Gray Hutchinson entered the Marine Corps through NROTC after graduation from Tulane University in 1966. He earned his "Wings of Gold" in early 1968. After transition training for the F-4 Phantom, he flew combat missions with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron-542 in the Republic of South Vietnam. He also served as a Forward Air Controller with 2nd Battalion 5th Marines in the Republic of South Vietnam. Gray had additional tours with Marine Fighter Attack Squadrons 201, 312, 323, and 333. He was a graduate of the Navy's elite "Top Gun" school and served as a T-2 Buckeye [...]

Homer Gray Hutchinson III – Class of 1966Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:39:41-05:00

Micheal P Reddington Class of 1966

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:33:11-05:00

USN. Aviator. Deceased 8 years active duty; 18 years reserve duty; Retired as Captain USNR. 2 tours Republic of Vietnam [RVN] late 1960s, early 1970s During RVN tours specialized in Prisoner of War [POW] recovery intelligence. Notably, he was the debrief officer for John McCain.

Micheal P Reddington Class of 1966Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:33:11-05:00

Ens Peter W Saravo – Class of 1965

Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:45:45-05:00

Ensign Saravo was killed in a plane crash while training on Feb 14, 1967. While flying a solo night flight Saravo reported problems with the aircraft. He was ordered to drop fuel and return to base. His plan crashed on landing. Saravo did not survive the crash.

Ens Peter W Saravo – Class of 1965Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:45:45-05:00

Captain Thomas A Carter – Class of 1965

Tom Dolan2020-07-14T14:56:06-05:00

Died in Helicopter crash 11/14/1967. A U.S. Marine Corps helicopter UH-1E (tail number 153737) from VMO-3 was a single ship VIP flight for the commanding general of the 3rd Marine Division. The official USMC history states that the aircraft crashed inverted in a flooded rice paddy and that there was still a fuel fire burning when the CO of the 4th Marines arrived in another helicopter. This party landed on a dike and walked to the crashed UH-1E. They put the fire out and had to dive under water to get the bodies out. There were six KIAs in the [...]

Captain Thomas A Carter – Class of 1965Tom Dolan2020-07-14T14:56:06-05:00

Captain Rodney R Chastant – Class of 1965

Tom Dolan2020-05-24T22:02:46-05:00

On October 22, 1968, a U.S. Marine Corps OV-10A Bronco (#155422) light attack and observation aircraft, call sign Hostage X-Ray, from Marine Observation Squadron 2 (VMO-2), Marine Aircraft Group 16 (MAG 16), was conducting marking runs near the village of Giang Hoa (12 miles SW of Danang) in Quang Nam Province, RVN. While flying below low cloud cover it was hit by ground fire, causing the aircraft to crash. Its two-man crew were killed in the incident. The lost crewmen were pilot CPT Eugene W. Kimmel and aerial observer CPT Rodney R. Chastant( Tulane NROTC 1965). A UH-1E helicopter gunship [...]

Captain Rodney R Chastant – Class of 1965Tom Dolan2020-05-24T22:02:46-05:00

Reuben Goodwin Rogerson – Class of 1945

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:33:42-05:00

Reuben Goodwin Rogerson {Deceased] Class of 1945 USN. 31 years active duty. Retired as Rear Admiral Assigned as Operations Officer and Deputy Chief of Staff to Commander Amphibious Ready Group [ARG] 1 in 1967. Awards, among many, include RVN Cross of Gallantry and Combat Action Ribbon Editor Note ARG 1 had aboard the 9th Marine Amphibious Brigade [MAB]. At this time, the MAB contained nearly 8,000 men with nearly half assigned to the two Seventh Fleet Special Landing Forces (SLF) Alpha and Bravo.* The two SLFS each consisted of a Marine infantry battalion, supported by a helicopter squadron and reinforced [...]

Reuben Goodwin Rogerson – Class of 1945Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:33:42-05:00

Lt CDR Thelmon S Stallings – Class of 1965

Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:45:19-05:00

June 15, 1978 In 1978 LCDR Stallings was an instructor with VT-124. While riding backseat in an F-14 on a familiarization hop crashed while in the landing pattern.

Lt CDR Thelmon S Stallings – Class of 1965Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:45:19-05:00

Robert N Rosemont – Class of 1968

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:32:42-05:00

Ensign Robert N Rosemont was assigned to USS Cleveland LPD-7 on graduation and commissioning. LPD-7 was deployed to Vietnam continuously from 1968-1973.

Robert N Rosemont – Class of 1968Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:32:42-05:00

Jeffrey A. Roux – Class of 1968

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:32:19-05:00

Jeffrey A Roux Class of 1968 USN. Surface Warfare Officer. Full career, retired as Commander USN Editor Note Details of CDR Roux’s service are derived from awards worn in US Navy Official photo [see below]. Navy Marine Corps Commendation Medal w/”V’, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal w/star indicating more than 1 tour, RVN Campaign Medal, Vietnam Civic Action Unit Citation, Vietnam Gallantry Unit Citation.

Jeffrey A. Roux – Class of 1968Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:32:19-05:00

John C. Ruff – Staff 1968-69

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:34:52-05:00

Lt Tuff, from Mobile Alabama, graduated from USNA in 1962, receiving his commission in unrestricted line. His first ship was the USS Stribling (DD-867). After destroyer school he reported to the USS Meredith (DD-890) to assume duties as Operations Officer. From May 1967-68 Lt Ruff served as River Patrol Operations Officer on the staff of the Commander, USN Forces, Vietnam. Foe his meritorious service in that capacity he was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal.

John C. Ruff – Staff 1968-69Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:34:52-05:00

A-6A All Weather Attack Aircraft

Tom Dolan2019-09-24T16:10:35-05:00

K. C. (Kit) Corcoran On my first tour (1969-70), I served in Vietnam with VMA(AW)-242 at Danang, flying A-6A Intruder aircraft. During the course of about 10-months I flew about 200 missions, dropping close to 2-million pounds of bombs in South Vietnam and elsewhere. Most of our flying was elsewhere, conducted at night, typically single-ship in rain and cloud, at 500-1000 feet altitude, in valleys between the mountain ridges, and travelling as fast (450-500 knots) as the Hogship would go carrying 28 bombs, while the bad guys did their best to [...]

A-6A All Weather Attack AircraftTom Dolan2019-09-24T16:10:35-05:00

Swift Boat: Mekong River Interdiction

Tom Dolan2022-03-22T12:40:20-05:00

Bruce (Buz) E. Sulzner I volunteered for Swift Boat Operations. In May of 1970, after completing the QC Officer course at NATTC GLYNCO, I was detached and ordered to report to COSRON ONE, Vietnam via TAD at the PCF/Riverine Warfare School at NIOTC Mare Island, Vallejo, California. While on TAD at NIOTC, I attended SERE training at Whidbey island, Washington and weapons training at NAD HAWTHORNE, Nevada. […]

Swift Boat: Mekong River InterdictionTom Dolan2022-03-22T12:40:20-05:00

Ronald E. Shrieves – Class of 1965

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:37:02-05:00

USN. 2 years active duty 1967-1969. During that period served aboard USS Long Beach CGN-9. Editor Note During the period 1967-1969 the USS Long Beach Had 2 WESTPAC deployments off coast of North Vietnam. In May 1968 and later in June 1968 shot down 2 MIGs with Talos missiles at range of 60+ miles.

Ronald E. Shrieves – Class of 1965Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:37:02-05:00

CLG-5: Naval Gunfire Support

Tom Dolan2019-09-24T16:11:42-05:00

James Basil Godwin, III, RADM (ret) As a Midshipman 1St Class I was deployed to Yokosuka Japan embarked in USS Oklahoma City (CLG – 5). We spent the summer onboard during combat operations in support of Combat Operations ashore. We provided gunfire support to troops in contact. I stood combat watches during these shore bombardments. […]

CLG-5: Naval Gunfire SupportTom Dolan2019-09-24T16:11:42-05:00

James R. Sweeney – MOI 1969-70

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:37:30-05:00

Major Sweeney, a Chicago native, received his degree in Architecture from Notre Dame in 1957. He was commissioned through the PLC program. Major Sweeney was an advisor to South Vietnamese forces in 1973. The book, "U.S. Marines In Vietnam: The War That Would Not End, 1971-1973," mentions Major Sweeney's actions on Jan 26,1973, just before the cease fire. Major Sweeney was awarded a Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He returned to Tulane for an MBA.

James R. Sweeney – MOI 1969-70Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:37:30-05:00

Lt Jg Robert Fobes – Class of 1963

Tom Dolan2019-08-29T15:12:46-05:00

April 26,1967 After service in Vietnam, Lt JG Fobes died in a helicopter crash while participating in a classified training operation. A/C crashed and burned in the Santa Rita mountains about 5 miles from Sonoita while taking part in operation Cloud Gap (classified research project). A/C was attempting a mountain peak landing and at approximately 150' above landing site, rotor RPM dropped to 6400. Pilot applied power for go-around but A/C continued to descend and lose RPM. At 20' AGL, A/C suddenly turned right and settled down to ground, M/R blades hit rock outcropping next to landing area, [...]

Lt Jg Robert Fobes – Class of 1963Tom Dolan2019-08-29T15:12:46-05:00

MSO-488: Minesweeper in Haiphong Harbor

Tom Dolan2019-09-24T16:12:16-05:00

Robert Michael Cosgrove My Viet Nam service began when it was decided to mine Haiphong Harbor. I was XO of USS Assurance (Minesweeper Ocean, MSO-521) in Charleston. We were sent to Hampton Roads in September 1972 to help determine the best method for sweeping the Mk 36 Destructors that the Navy planned to use. Fast forward to January 1973. As part of the peace process, Henry Kissinger agreed to sweep the mines that we had dropped. Two of the sweeps chosen to do the job were Naval Reserve Force at Pearl Harbor. As they had [...]

MSO-488: Minesweeper in Haiphong HarborTom Dolan2019-09-24T16:12:16-05:00

CVA-41: South China Sea on the USS Midway

CVA-41: South China Sea on the USS Midway

Tom Dolan2020-07-14T11:47:27-05:00

Earl Higgins A couple of weeks after commissioning in May 1963, I reported aboard USS MIDWAY (CVA-41) with homeport in Alameda, California. After the usual operations and one cruise to WESTPAC, the Gulf of Tonkin incident in August 1964 changed our operational plans. President Johnson escalated the war, and MIDWAY was an early part of that effort. Instead of an anticipated peacetime cruise that would have taken us to, among other places, Australia, Singapore, and Bangkok, we were ordered to war. MIDWAY departed Alameda in early 1965 for Subic Bay with a stop in Pearl [...]

CVA-41: South China Sea on the USS MidwayTom Dolan2020-07-14T11:47:27-05:00

Brown Water: River Section 552

Tom Dolan2019-09-24T16:13:28-05:00

Dennis Pelletier When I left the States, my orders had me going to RivSec. 543. River Section units were squads of river boats, supply, service and patrol, for use on inland rivers. However, when I checked into Saigon, I was informed I was going to RivSec. 552 a new RivSec just forming up. When I got Nha Be, I met my OIC and AOIC, both “short timers”. They told me that at that time our section did not have any boats. So for the first two weeks of my tour I [...]

Brown Water: River Section 552Tom Dolan2019-09-24T16:13:28-05:00

DD-807: Off the coast of North Vietnam

Tom Dolan2019-09-24T16:13:59-05:00

Kenneth Mallon All of my active duty was served aboard the USS Benner (DD-807) a WWII destroyer. Her main armaments for Vietnam operations were her six 5″ guns, 3 twin mounts that saw a lot of action off the coast of North Vietnam while Benner was involved in Operation Sea Dragon as a unit of Task Force 77. Our objectives were to engage enemy waterborne craft attempting to deliver supplies and ammunition to South Vietnam, and to locate and destroy enemy shore batteries along the coast of North Vietnam. [...]

DD-807: Off the coast of North VietnamTom Dolan2019-09-24T16:13:59-05:00

Logistics Supply Base Cam Ranh Bay

Tom Dolan2019-09-24T16:14:13-05:00

Leonard Sapera I arrived at LSB (Logistics Support Base) Cam Ranh Bay 1/3/1971 and found a U.S. Navy operation in bad shape. My Navy advisors and their VN counterparts were not speaking and my main mission was to train the Vietnamese to take over base operation by the end of the year to demonstrate that the ‘Vietnamization Project’ was doable. Since no one spoke the others language I could see there was a problem of trust. My counterpart, LT Pham Van Bay was easy to train as a start. So a [...]

Logistics Supply Base Cam Ranh BayTom Dolan2019-09-24T16:14:13-05:00

F-4 Carrier Aviator on Yankee Station

Tom Dolan2019-09-24T16:14:33-05:00

Austin Lindsey, Captain USN (ret) I was flying a late night mission from the USS Independence in the Gulf of Tonkin. On return, I had a hydraulic pump failure and couldn’t lower my landing gear. Since it was night, the ship diverted me to Da Nang which had a Marine F4 squadron. I activated my emergency air system to lower the landing gear but only the left main and the nose wheel came down. So now I was faced with a one wheel up landing. […]

F-4 Carrier Aviator on Yankee StationTom Dolan2019-09-24T16:14:33-05:00

Lt Jg Rosolino J Territo – Class of 1963

Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:46:50-05:00

March 9 1965 March 09,1965: Lt. (jg). Rosolino J. Territo, 23, of NAS Lemoore was killed when his A4C Skyhawk BuNo 147817 crashed and exploded in swampland east of St. Vincent's Hill as it was about to make a radar landing at Hamilton AFB at 7:20 p.m. yesterday. Territo’s plane was one of two making a practice radar approach to the base, to gain experience in landing at unfamiliar fields. He was followed by instructor Lt. Harold D. Barnhart of Lemoore, who said he lost visual and radio contact with Territo minutes before they were supposed to land. San [...]

Lt Jg Rosolino J Territo – Class of 1963Tom Dolan2020-05-24T21:46:50-05:00

Michael O. Tackney – Staff 1969

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:38:25-05:00

A native of Falls Church, Va., Lt. Tackney graduated USNA in 1964. He served as ASW Officer aboard the USS Cromwell (DE-1014) and USS Voge (DE-1047). Following Voge, he joined Coastal Division 12 in the Danang-Chu Lai area of Vietnam where he commanded a Swift Boat engaged in coastal and riverine patrols.

Michael O. Tackney – Staff 1969Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:38:25-05:00

David M Trousdale – Class of 1968

Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:37:58-05:00

David M. Trousdale Class of 1968 B.A. History USN 1 tour Vietnam flying A-7E Corsairs

David M Trousdale – Class of 1968Tom Dolan2020-04-25T12:37:58-05:00

About Tom Dolan