Just for the hell of it, how many of you were actually in combat compared to being in a support unit that?

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 09:44:38 -0400

I know that it really doesn't make any difference on what we did when we served, the most important thing is that we did serve our Great Country and that is all that matters. But, just for the hell of it, how many of you were actually attached to a Combat Unit and saw combat compared to those who were attached to a Support Unit? Statically, there are more military personnel in supports units than there were in combat units. Which one were you?

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Jul 19 at 2015 9:46 AM

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 09:46:08 -0400

Oh oh .... I can smell the brimstone already!

Response by LTC Ed Ross made Jul 19 at 2015 9:50 AM

LTC Ed Ross — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 09:50:25 -0400

Seventeen major battles is an artillery observer with the 9th Inf Div division of Vietnam in 1967. http://www.ewross.com/biography.htm

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Jul 19 at 2015 10:00 AM

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 10:00:00 -0400

Another consideration ...
At the "Battle of Fire Support Base Rita" there was a cook starting breakfast when one of the many wire attacks started. He left the cook shack and manned a M-60 position and ran a couple boxes of 7.62 in the correct direction until the attack subsided. Then he went back and finished making breakfast!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2015 10:00 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 10:00:19 -0400

I was in a medical unit. Saw a lot of casualties, but besides the indirect rocket attacks, no direct fire.

Response by CDR Brian Rinaldi made Jul 19 at 2015 10:01 AM

CDR Brian Rinaldi — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 10:01:23 -0400

I was assigned to both combat and support units during my 35 years of active duty.

Response by Lt Col Timothy Parker, DBA made Jul 19 at 2015 10:09 AM

Lt Col Timothy Parker, DBA — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 10:09:18 -0400

I was clearly support - never experienced combat.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2015 10:48 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 10:48:32 -0400

I saw a little combat on TV. But all jokes aside in OIF I it was uncommon to not be in combat. But there were some bases that were so out of the way that it made it a hard target. I wasn't at one of those.

Response by SSG Izzy Abbass made Jul 19 at 2015 11:25 AM

SSG Izzy Abbass — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 11:25:49 -0400

Infantry all the way. That which doesn't kill you, makes you stronger Except Infantry. Infantry will kill you. :)

Response by SGT Richard H. made Jul 19 at 2015 12:28 PM

SGT Richard H. — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 12:28:35 -0400

I saw & experienced combat...for several moments over a period of about 100 Hours.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Jul 19 at 2015 12:46 PM

Cpl Dennis F. — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 12:46:15 -0400

Received and returned fire as a a grunt on OPs and then later as a 1st Tanks Gunner/TC attached to endless line units including the ROK marines. Mortared, rocketed, machine gunned and blown up by large command detonated mine. Missed a date with an angel from a recoiless rifle, made the introductions for them instead. 1967-68 TET offensive was a very busy time. Otherwise pretty F'n boring.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2015 1:20 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 13:20:38 -0400

Welcome home David. I saw combat in Vietnam, Laos and just north of the DMZ. Served with CCN MACVSOG at Marble Mountain (DaNang). De Oppresso Liber.

Response by CWO2 John Markiewicz made Jul 19 at 2015 1:50 PM

CWO2 John Markiewicz — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 13:50:54 -0400

I was assigned to Naval Support Activity Detachment Dong Ha and served in a Communications Van buried in the DMZ just outside Dong Ha. We took Rocket and Mortar Shelling almost daily and during Tet of 1968 were nearly over run. I earned my Combat Action Ribbon.

Response by SGT Douglas Blackwood made Jul 19 at 2015 3:31 PM

SGT Douglas Blackwood — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 15:31:58 -0400

I don't see a distinction between the two. I have been assigned to both combat and support units. I have gone years without "combat" in a combat unit and I have been involved in "combat" while in a support unit.

Response by Cpl Kristoffer Mischel made Jul 19 at 2015 7:04 PM

Cpl Kristoffer Mischel — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 19:04:16 -0400

0311 all the way! Saw direct combat in Iraq with Bravo 1/4 2nd plt. Go Blackhorse. Semper Fi!

Response by SFC Rollie Hubbard made Jul 19 at 2015 10:17 PM

SFC Rollie Hubbard — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 22:17:11 -0400

Not I , was assigned to the 62nd AVN Co we supported XXIIII corps with aircraft

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jul 19 at 2015 10:42 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 22:42:43 -0400

I don't have a clue and I doubt that anyone else does (even the people who maintain this website). Is it important? Once upon a time there were "rear echelons" that were relatively safe. That ended long ago. In Vietnam every base camp perimeter was a front line and "support troops" defended them so that the infantry could do their job. Artillery men were issue personal weapons and even machine guns so that they could defend themselves in remote fire bases. One of the recipients of the Medal of Honor in Vietnam was an artilleryman who manned an M60 when he had expended all his M16 ammo, then turned a howitzer on the enemy (without help because his comrades were all wounded or dead).

Response by SN Victoria Glover made Jul 19 at 2015 10:43 PM

SN Victoria Glover — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 22:43:55 -0400

I want to thank each and everyone of you that were in active combat and all services. If I would have been ordered to combat I would not hesitate. I have lost friends that were in combat. Welcome home to all! Those that did not make it home are our guardian angels.

Response by LTC Marc King made Jul 20 at 2015 2:39 PM

LTC Marc King — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 14:39:36 -0400

2/34 Armor, 25th ID and 2/12 Infantry 2d BDE Seperate, 25th ID.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2015 7:10 PM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 19:10:09 -0400

2nd Bn, 5th Marines, 1st MarDiv, RVN '67

Response by 1LT Harvey Hutchinson made Aug 3 at 2015 9:09 PM

1LT Harvey Hutchinson — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 21:09:28 -0400

Delta 3/7th 199th LIB. Spent my tour in combat for the duration. Got my CIB and a Plaque to prove it!

Response by Lt Col John Eliopolo Cpc, Eli Mp made Aug 4 at 2015 10:16 AM

Lt Col John Eliopolo Cpc, Eli Mp — Tue, 04 Aug 2015 10:16:15 -0400

Forward edge of the battlefield, no; supporting the forward edge, yes.

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Aug 5 at 2015 8:37 AM

SSgt Terry P. — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 08:37:12 -0400

During Vietnam even the members of the AFB at Da Nang took small arms fire and yes i was in combat at Dia Loc Pass 7 miles outside Da Nang and later in operation Oklahoma Hills at 55, Baldy,Ryder,and a few others.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 5 at 2015 8:54 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 08:54:47 -0400

I have been in aviation all my career, 3 combat tours and one peace keeping, and my answer to your question is that, in today's battle field there's no such thing as front line, as a Apache mechanic in 2005 iraq I was doing convoys and getting shot, that's the status of 99% of our service members today, the 1% is the members that never as put foot in the ground in the combat zone

Response by SN Stacey Werkmeister made Aug 5 at 2015 2:18 PM

SN Stacey Werkmeister — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 14:18:13 -0400

Cook on the Carl Vinson ?? Peacetime . which one?

Response by SSG Ray Strenkowski made Aug 5 at 2015 2:46 PM

SSG Ray Strenkowski — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 14:46:56 -0400

I was a support guy that got a little more excitement than most support folks once and a while in Bosnia and Afghanistan...

Response by SSG Gerhard S. made Aug 5 at 2015 2:54 PM

SSG Gerhard S. — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 14:54:53 -0400

Combat, infantry, Iraq, 2004-2005.

Response by SGT Eric Dziekan made Aug 5 at 2015 3:13 PM

SGT Eric Dziekan — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 15:13:24 -0400

Yes, as a Combat Engineer Demolitions Sergeant attached to B Co 1\508th Abn Inf Bn in Panama

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Aug 5 at 2015 5:46 PM

Maj Chris Nelson — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 17:46:52 -0400

Army Medic, Desert Storm: Hauled a few patients and dodged SCUD missiles.
Air Force Nurse, OIF: Balad Theater Hospital, Indirect fire, saw a shit ton of guys rolling through pretty banged up.
Air Force Nurse, OEF: Afghanistan. Nursing instructor, Medical plans. Traveled all over, in the area for a few indirect fire incidents, but did not see any direct combat operations.

Response by PO2 Sam Messer made Sep 1 at 2015 9:00 PM

PO2 Sam Messer — Tue, 01 Sep 2015 21:00:26 -0400

How does one interpret Combat ? I was a Seabee unit was CBMU301 My unit flew in to Dong Ha starting late may 67 I arrived June 67. We were attached to the 1 St Marine Division I think who ever it was along the DMZ. I made many trips from Dong Ha to Cam Lo then sent to Khe Sanh Aug 1967. I was there thru TET 1968 during the Siege and wounded Jan 21 ST 68, left March 68 back to Dong Ha. So I was in Combat but not in the boonies like the Marines and Army. I was put on the reaction squad during the siege and we were called up twice but both times the need was gone when we got to staging area. Some say this was not combat but those in command say it was. So the Marines I served with there say yes that was combat and the Navy said it was also, I don't disagree with My Brother Marines. I received the PUC, Navy Commendation Ribbon, Purple Heart and CAR. So I leave the definition to you and your idea of Combat to decide.

Response by SGT Lou Meza made Sep 3 at 2015 1:39 AM

SGT Lou Meza — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 01:39:53 -0400

I was assigned to the 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion as a doorgunner in Vietnam . Also assigned to the 2nd Bn 7th Cav 1st Cav Div as machine gunner . While with the 229th was involved in two chopper crashes and neither time did I even get a scratch ! Was awarded the CIB and also the Air Medal with 14 Oak Leaf Clusters ! So yes I saw some combat .

Response by SSG Robert Webster made Sep 3 at 2015 9:30 AM

SSG Robert Webster — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 09:30:41 -0400

Infantry assigned to C 2/508th PIR, 1st Bde, 82nd Airborne Division for Operation Urgent Fury (Grenada).
Infantry assigned to B 1/325th AIR, 2nd Bde, 82nd Airborne Division for Operations DS/DS.

Response by SSG Dwight Amey MSA, MSL, BS, AS made Sep 3 at 2015 9:50 AM

SSG Dwight Amey MSA, MSL, BS, AS — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 09:50:33 -0400

Sgt David G Duchesneau, I was in a combat service support role for my four deployments to Iraq. Mechanized Armored Calvary Regiment, Combat Engineer Heavy BN, the same 3rd ACR as the first tour in 2003 in 2007-2009. then a brigade support battalion for operation new dawn working in spo as an psd advise and assist team in kirkuk 2010-2011 oct. With that said i was not doing the dismount combat missions only bookoo convoy missions. 2003 had an rpg fly over my hmv lighted up my hmv and exploded about 30 meters past our perimeter. I have been on installations in mosul, kirkuk, warhourse, ar ramadi, betting mortar attacks out the wazoo. i don't consider myself a combat just as a person that has been attacked.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Sep 3 at 2015 12:22 PM

MCPO Roger Collins — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 12:22:44 -0400

Last I heard the ratio was 7:1, support to rifle toter.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Sep 14 at 2015 5:31 PM

SGT Rick Ash — Mon, 14 Sep 2015 17:31:46 -0400

Sgt David G Duchesneau
I was in combat in Nam. I was in ADA units in S. Korea and Tobin wells (1/7 ADA) and called up into heightened alert situations that never made the newspapers or wire services.
Great question, phrased just right!
Thanks,
Rick

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Sep 15 at 2015 6:57 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 18:57:06 -0400

Civil Affairs was always attached to combat units, or the integral part of Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRT), which required us to be out the wire meeting locals and greeting non armed Taliban, that became armed the minute we turned your back. I miss that shit.

Response by CPT Maria Burns made Sep 15 at 2015 7:12 PM

CPT Maria Burns — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 19:12:53 -0400

Due to my genitalia, I was support. :) However, I have pulled a weapon on someone, and I've heard of at least one woman who had to shoot a guy who was attacking her.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2015 7:15 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 19:15:48 -0400

OIF 6-8 on FOB FOB Falcon running missions in AL Dora and Rte. Red Wings, then out of FOB Liberty running missions in Amariyah and Monsour. Taking tanks everywhere we went. It was the highlight of my career and im still serving.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2015 9:59 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 09:59:22 -0400

I hope that with answering that3 out of my four combat tours I was a line medic/corpsman will suffice your quest for knowledge.

Response by CPO Emmett (Bud) Carpenter made Oct 9 at 2015 9:19 PM

CPO Emmett (Bud) Carpenter — Fri, 09 Oct 2015 21:19:35 -0400

I would say no combat but I did spend many long days(nights) on the flight deck of the USS Coral Sea and the USS Shangri -la in the Tonkin Gulf in support of combat operations in Vietnam. Every time this old chief gets too big for his britches he thinks of those days and the shipmates he lost and it has a way of bringing him(me) back to earth.

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Feb 21 at 2016 1:19 PM

SGT Philip Roncari — Sun, 21 Feb 2016 13:19:22 -0500

11 bravo RVN Kontum Province 1966-1967 to all my brothers Welcome Home

Response by SGT Jonathon Caldwell made Feb 21 at 2016 6:09 PM

SGT Jonathon Caldwell — Sun, 21 Feb 2016 18:09:18 -0500

Simple answer from me compared to most I've seen. Yes I've been shot at and yes I've shot back. CIB and PH to prove it.

Response by CPT Jim Schwebach made Feb 22 at 2016 10:33 PM

CPT Jim Schwebach — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 22:33:52 -0500

That's me over to the left. At the time (Nov 67) I was standing on a hill just west of Dak To wondering where the resupply bird was and why were all these unfriendly Oriental people shooting at us!

Response by Cpl Kenneth Ledbetter made Mar 31 at 2016 2:38 PM

Cpl Kenneth Ledbetter — Thu, 31 Mar 2016 14:38:17 -0400

I was a REMF, but not by choice, I was told that the MC knew what they wanted and the 1st Sgt. kindly ask me to leave his office and never come back. I wanted to be a combat engineer instead of a parachute rigger.

Response by 1LT Roger Soiset made Jul 6 at 2016 10:03 AM

1LT Roger Soiset — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 10:03:22 -0400

I suspect the number of "thumbs up" tells you something. REMFs likely would not respond.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Jul 6 at 2016 10:32 AM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 10:32:39 -0400

Both. B-52 Arc Lite combat tours during Vietnam War. Actually shot at and hit, but just lost tip tank. Served as support during Desert Storm since B-1 wasn't a conventional bomber back then, but wing sent tankers and personnel to Egypt in support.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Jul 6 at 2016 4:05 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 16:05:44 -0400

I was a POG or REMF or Cold Warrior (the term I prefer). I was a C-130, CT-39, and T-37 pilot during my operational service. I also did headquarters tours at MAC, USREDCOM, USSOCOM, and USTRANSCOM. Never shot at in anger to delivered any fire and steel on target. I have the greatest respect for all who served under fire and hope I provided you the best support possible.

Response by PO2 Ron Burling made Jul 12 at 2016 1:14 PM

PO2 Ron Burling — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 13:14:20 -0400

As a Seabee, I was clearly support, but Mr. Charles didn't always get that memo or abide by it.

In '67, at Gia Le Combat Base, we were getting infantry probes of our perimeter, when TET '68 went live, everyone was infantry, we were the closest American unit to Hue, infantry probes continued, plus 122mm rockets. We had 8 KIA and 48 WIA that deployment, for a Seabee unit that's fairly heavy losses.

As a heavy equipment operator I was often out in 'the villes' by my lonesome, I had a pneumatic roller shot out from under me in Hue in late '68. I may have only been support, but I "saw the elephant".

I'm really not so sure I even like this question, support guys have a different mission than the infantry, that doesn't make us less brave or our dead less dead.

Response by SPC James Harsh made Jul 12 at 2016 8:37 PM

SPC James Harsh — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 20:37:20 -0400

everytime convoy to an airfield base saw 10,000+ support compared to the sparse elements scattered about. Don't let the everyone on the frontline mantra fool you because it's not as likely a case it's made out to be either.

Response by SPC Kirk Gilles made Jul 12 at 2016 10:19 PM

SPC Kirk Gilles — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 22:19:07 -0400

In a combat MOS in a combat unit in a combat division in a time of no combat... Thank goodness for that

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Jul 13 at 2016 12:24 AM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Wed, 13 Jul 2016 00:24:30 -0400

Wow there are tons of neat stories in this thread

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Jul 13 at 2016 12:25 AM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Wed, 13 Jul 2016 00:25:31 -0400

I really enjoy hearing Vietnam stories from folks who were there. I don't know why it intrigues me as much as it does.

Response by SP5 Joel McDargh made Jul 13 at 2016 6:12 PM

SP5 Joel McDargh — Wed, 13 Jul 2016 18:12:16 -0400

I was a courier in the Binh Dinh Province of then South Vietnam assigned to Support Battalion of the 173rd Abn Bgd. I was no desk jockey nor was I in actual combat. What I was, I was an 18 year old responsible for the transport of information crucial to military operations. Sometimes I was able to get a chopper to make deliveries, but most of the time I had to take a vehicle to deliver to Phu Cat Airbase and other bases within the province. I saw much during my travels there, but then that's a whole nother story.

Response by CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2016 7:29 PM

CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jul 2016 19:29:49 -0400

Attached to the I Marine Expeditionary Force during OIF I and we took over the country and were awarded the Navy Presidential Unit Citation.

Response by CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2016 7:30 PM

CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jul 2016 19:30:36 -0400

The citation.

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Jul 14 at 2016 8:46 PM

SSG Mark Franzen — Thu, 14 Jul 2016 20:46:59 -0400

I MYSELF NEVER SERVED IN COMBAT BUT I TRAINIED EVERY DAY AS IF I WAS LEAVING FOR COMBAT FOR 16.5 YRS OF MY LIFE NEVER HAD THE CHANCE. I STILL HAVE TO DEAL WITH PTSD EVERYDAY AND IT NEVER GOES AWAY.

Response by 1SG Billye Jackson made Jul 20 at 2016 12:38 PM

1SG Billye Jackson — Wed, 20 Jul 2016 12:38:06 -0400

I was assigned to A Btry 1 Bn 5th Arty, and Attached to C Co 1bn 2nd Inf. !st ID as am member of a FO Team in South Vietnam 1966 to 67

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made Jul 28 at 2016 6:30 PM

SGT Paul Mackay — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 18:30:10 -0400

I was in combat in the central highlands in vietnam.

Response by SGT David D Williams made Aug 4 at 2016 1:00 PM

SGT David D Williams — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 13:00:54 -0400

Arrived 23 July, 1967, assigned to 1st squad, Lima platoon (first platoon), Alpha Company, 1st Batt., 28th Infantry, First Infantry Division. Always thought it unique to be in the 1st of each section of assignment. Saw enough combat to get a Purple Heart, 2 Bronze Stars, Air Medal. Worked my way up from rifleman to Sgt, squad leader. Had several people wounded, and lost one to KIA.

Response by LTC Mo Vanderslice made Aug 4 at 2016 1:17 PM

LTC Mo Vanderslice — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 13:17:23 -0400

I was in a tank unit, 4-70AR/2BCT/1AD, in direct combat for Operation Desert Storm, but a FOB-it or an advisor for my other eight combat tours. Direct combat was a lot better than the slow death of being a FOB-it.

Response by CPT Steve Curley made Aug 4 at 2016 1:49 PM

CPT Steve Curley — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 13:49:29 -0400

I guess flying choppers for 1st Air Cav in 1968 out of Camp Evans in I Corps during Tet Offensive qualifies. Served with many many great selfless men and women.

Response by LCpl William Amos made Aug 4 at 2016 2:02 PM

LCpl William Amos — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 14:02:57 -0400

0311 pounding ground in Iskandariyah and Hit Iraq, then attached to a HQ Co for a 3rd tour in Fallujah running security for convoys.

Response by MSgt James Mullis made Aug 4 at 2016 2:50 PM

MSgt James Mullis — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 14:50:12 -0400

The Air Force mission is such that we tend to send our officers off to fight, at least when everything is going right. That said, I spent part of Desert Storm working in the Safety Office for the 4404 CW(P) at Dhahran Air Base. Our "office" was small tent on a Taxiway with a squadron of A-10's to my left and a half dozen F-4's to my right, the F-16's. F-15's, F-111's, C-130's and every other aircraft you can think of were scattered around the base. They were sent off on sorties loaded with missiles, bombs, and bullets, more often than not returning home empty. I spent my time inspecting the units, investigating accidents, and daily visits to the 5 hospitals in the area (trying to find injured airman). But did I see Combat? Thankfully no.

Response by COL Lee Flemming made Aug 4 at 2016 2:58 PM

COL Lee Flemming — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 14:58:23 -0400

Combat...I think that your last assertion regarding service is most appropriate though!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 4 at 2016 3:17 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 15:17:32 -0400

In my opinion, a deployment experience will never be the same from two perspectives. As support, you can see a mortar hit a dfac

Response by SPC Greg Abarr made Aug 4 at 2016 3:26 PM

SPC Greg Abarr — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 15:26:48 -0400

Bravo 1/46 198 LIB Americal Division out of Chu Lai Vietnam from 67 to 69.
Point man- sniper

Response by LTC Henry Wadsworth made Aug 4 at 2016 4:07 PM

LTC Henry Wadsworth — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 16:07:46 -0400

I was in Army Artillery in Vietnam for two tours and saw combat both times. There were also support troops that were in it with me.

Response by HN Robert Barquist made Aug 4 at 2016 4:54 PM

HN Robert Barquist — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 16:54:23 -0400

Hospital Corpsman, attached to CAP 2-2-2-, 2nd CAG, III MAF, Vietnam 1970-71. Mission; to teach Popular Force troopers how to defend their villages, pacify areas in S. Vietnam, promote goodwill with villagers. Platton of Marines with one Corpsman, set up night time ambushes for VC/NVA within our one square klick AO. I was the local "Doc' during the day, performing Medcaps and daily treatments of villagers with minor sores etc. Watched B-40 rocket go between me and the banana tree one evening, several firefights, etc. Vietnam Campaign medal, Bronze Star with V, etc. Was there and lived to tell about it. /BB

Response by SSG Mike Zientek made Aug 4 at 2016 5:54 PM

SSG Mike Zientek — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 17:54:58 -0400

During Desert Shield and Desert Storm, I was an ammunition Specialist at one of the largest ASP's in theater. I didn't get shot at, and I didn't have to fire my weapon.
We were a "viable target" as Saddam fired scuds at Israel and Saudi Arabia.
Our NBC alarms went off on several occassions, and we spent a good amount of time in MOPP 4.
We were given the cocktail of vaccinations, pb pills, malaria pills and all the other shit.
During OIF, we were a heavy transportation unit cross trained as Detainee Ops in Baghdad.
Again, I never had to fire my weapon.
But I was surrounded every day by several thousand detainees that wanted to kill me.
The breeding ground for what became ISIS, ISIL, DAESH.
I do NOT consider myself a combat Vet.
I am lucky I never had to take a life, but I was trained to do so, and as prepared as anyone can be to do so if I had to.

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Aug 4 at 2016 6:14 PM

PO1 Donald Hammond — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 18:14:52 -0400

Being on a submarine chasing Russian subs and being ready to blow the world up at any time, is that front line enough? :D

Response by SSgt Keith Hegstrom made Aug 4 at 2016 6:32 PM

SSgt Keith Hegstrom — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 18:32:44 -0400

SSgt Keith W. Hegstrom, Combat unit, Vietnam 1968/69 Base overrun in 1970, 150 miles northeast of Saigon!

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Aug 4 at 2016 7:21 PM

SrA Edward Vong — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 19:21:18 -0400

Hey David! I wonder if this question can be reposted as a poll. I always wondered what the ratio was for troops that have been in combat vs. support their whole career.

Response by SSgt Darrell Fuller made Aug 4 at 2016 7:55 PM

SSgt Darrell Fuller — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 19:55:26 -0400

Infantry, C Co, 1/5, Task Force Ripper, Desert Shield/Storm, 2 mine field breaches while taking mostly artillery fire (some small arms), ransacked small airport, saw lots of oil fires, minor resistance into Kuwait City. Tankers & Tows had most of the fun.

Response by Cpl MIchael Lurvey made Aug 4 at 2016 8:11 PM

Cpl MIchael Lurvey — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 20:11:22 -0400

I was in combat in VN in 70-71 at Marble Mountain aqs a door gunner and did a lot of medivac flights

Response by 1SG John Aaron made Aug 4 at 2016 8:43 PM

1SG John Aaron — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 20:43:28 -0400

I was a tank crewman in Desert Storm and saw plenty of fighting during the 100 hours of the ground war. I saw a bunch of COIN operations as a Tank Platoon Sergeant in OIF 1, 2003 - 2004.

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Aug 5 at 2016 10:14 AM

MSG Dan Castaneda — Fri, 05 Aug 2016 10:14:56 -0400

I'm a support guy. I support the guys on my team.

Response by SSgt Paul Esquibel made Aug 6 at 2016 10:37 AM

SSgt Paul Esquibel — Sat, 06 Aug 2016 10:37:07 -0400

I sir was in a supportive unit, not by choice I assure you, within the AF I tried multiple times to volunteer for either convoy duty or FOB however the problem I always had and I'm not bragging and I imagine many people fall into this as well is that I was just really good at my job, so good that leadership felt losing me for 6-8 months would be damaging to mission at home, so I put in my time twice in South Korea, deployed to Al Udeid before it was a vacation spot but was never in hostile direct fire positions. On the flip side my best friend who joined with me as well who went Air National Guard in 2006 actually did 4 combat tours which is not something most do, I've always thought and just my personal opinion that if you have never served in a combat deployed area you really have not equally served compared to others, while we make the choice to go if called I don't think it compares to others.

Response by SSG Drew Cook made Aug 6 at 2016 12:01 PM

SSG Drew Cook — Sat, 06 Aug 2016 12:01:50 -0400

Combat medic with artillery (2-11 FA), infantry (1-27 IN, 25ID MTT), EOD (707th and 710th) and cav (2-14) for OIF 5, 7, and that one after we stopped major combat. Lots of JSS and tiny COP ops all around that Iraq place. Fun for the entire family, if you like random firefights and roadside bombs with an occasional chai and kabob on the side.

Response by SFC Jeff Couch made Aug 6 at 2016 12:48 PM

SFC Jeff Couch — Sat, 06 Aug 2016 12:48:09 -0400

Thank You for all of you who paved the way welcome back my Dad was with Big Red 1 68-69

Response by PO2 Robert Gendreau made Aug 6 at 2016 2:22 PM

PO2 Robert Gendreau — Sat, 06 Aug 2016 14:22:10 -0400

PBR's three tours in Vietnam Nam seen my share.

Response by ENS Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2016 1:48 AM

ENS Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Aug 2016 01:48:54 -0400

I haven't been in actual combat, yet I continuously request it. I'm currently training for a special warfare screening which will allow me to experience combat. Support units are critical to the warfighter, however I'd rather be at the tip of the spear doing the dirty work, than supporting them.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2016 2:48 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Aug 2016 14:48:01 -0400

I'm in a support unit, got out of AIT not too long ago so I've seen nothing. Others in my unit have, even as support. We've got a mix of juniors that believe in Soldier first and others who think it's only the MOS. I'm more of the Soldier first mentality. I might not see combat, but I should be ready to if it happens.

Response by Sgt Don Griffin made Aug 11 at 2016 10:21 AM

Sgt Don Griffin — Thu, 11 Aug 2016 10:21:32 -0400

I was at Dong Ha in 1969. REMF but took rounds on perimeter posts and rockets and mortar rounds regularly. Did not earn a CIB and respect those that did.

Response by PO3 Dave Lara made Aug 11 at 2016 1:09 PM

PO3 Dave Lara — Thu, 11 Aug 2016 13:09:22 -0400

I was. Da Nang and Dong Ha Vietnam, 1966 Marines Charlie One Nine. US Navy Corpsman. Then transfered to the USS Repose hospital ship off the coast of Vietnam 1967.

Response by Cpl Ivan Dominguez made Aug 11 at 2016 3:08 PM

Cpl Ivan Dominguez — Thu, 11 Aug 2016 15:08:39 -0400

3rd Battalion 4th Marines - 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division out of 29 Palms, California. Beautiful desert country. We were definitely an Infantry Unit - I was Active during the March Up to Baghdad when I served my first combat tour.

Response by SPC Bill Livingston made Aug 11 at 2016 7:19 PM

SPC Bill Livingston — Thu, 11 Aug 2016 19:19:22 -0400

I was in a support unit, but it wouldn't have mattered, the only thing that happened when I was in was Grenada.

Response by SGT Gerry Wright made Aug 11 at 2016 8:38 PM

SGT Gerry Wright — Thu, 11 Aug 2016 20:38:44 -0400

I was in a support unit. The 539th Transportation Company, a helicopter unit that not only did maintenance, but aircraft recovery of downed helicopters and fixed wing aircraft that went down due to mechanical or enemy fire. We also hauled ass and trash out of Phu Loi, RVN 30 kilometers north of Saigon. A garden spot that was right in the middle of the Iron Triangle. We also had several combat aviation units we supported like the !st Infantry Division's 1st Aviation Battalion, the Quarter Cav, 128th Assault Helicopter Company, 213th Assault Helicopter Company, 205th Aviation Company that flew Chinooks, etc., etc., etc. Phu Loi sat right next to the Ho Chi Minh Trail so we were under constant rocket and mortar attacks, not to mention there was a small village between us and THE trail so sniper fire was a constant threat. Of course we were never allowed to fire back on the snipers for fear of hitting someone in the village. Highway 13 ran by Phu Loi, it was also known as Thunder Road, it was a major resupply line to Lai Khe and was one of Chuck and boys favorite ambush locations. No matter what your responsibilities were during the day you picked up additional duty at night any time you wanted it to spell the helicopter crews who flew all day so we could carry out night missions no matter what that might be. During the Cambodian Operation we pulled 18 hour days and flew missions in support of anyone who needed us even though we didn't have Combat Aviation Company attached to our units name. Did any of us get Combat Infantry Badges for this? Nope, but we didn't care we were just doing our job and watching out for our brothers. There were no non-combat or support group assignments in Vietnam. My PTSD kind of tells me this on a regular basis.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2016 7:39 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Aug 2016 19:39:30 -0400

I think you will find that very few people were involved in intense combat for long periods of time. Including most of the people that brag the most!!! There are lot's of folks that tell stories that are better left in the bars when trying to pick up the opposite gender.

Surely there were some combat arms units stuck on a mountain and under attack every week. However for most, I would estimate it was 99/1%. 99% boring Groundhog Days, with 1% "awe snap" days.

This isn't something new to modern combat either AND many combat arms units spent the entire deployment on a FOB. I have personally seen combat units spend no time outside of the wire and then listened to Soldiers in those units try to pass off fake war stories. They may have done it to get attention, but then again for some it's a way to conceal the "shame". It sad because too many of us glorify suffering for some insane reason. It's childish. War is not cool.

We often let the media define the war experience, and all too often it is exaggerated. After all what Documentary or News station is going to cover the boredom of deployment? It's not exciting enough for the viewer who wants a fairy tale trilling story. We see that in countless stories from previous wars.

The other thing to consider is how we perceive threat. After you have been in an environment for a period of time, you don't feel the threat in the same way. You begin to ignore it, accept it, and chalk it up to fate. I actually began to like the environment and felt safer being in an environment where I could carry a weapon freely and thus bought into the illusion of control over my fate.

It's also bad to assume that support units/personnel do not experience heavy combat. Regardless of your MOS, you can quickly find yourself embedded with a team that goes out of the wire on a regular basis. No one cares what your MOS is when the bullets fly.

In the end, if PVT Joe Snuffy only experiences intense combat for one day and that results in his death or injury, does it matter? I hope that is not the standard we set for honoring people that give up their freedom to go do something that very few people have the courage to even try.

I am cautious about subjects like this because it can often lead to arrogant responses that are based more in ego than in reality.

For me, I spent my time as a Signaleer, attached to Military Intelligence units on the borders in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Iraq was nothing of great concern, while Afghanistan produced numberous days when I thought I might not make it home. Overall, it wasn't hell, but it wasn't paradise of home either. As my old 1SG used to say "it is what it is".

Response by PO1 Gery Bastiani made Aug 13 at 2016 5:43 AM

PO1 Gery Bastiani — Sat, 13 Aug 2016 05:43:20 -0400

Was assigned to the Naval Support Unit State Dept and was with 3 other Seabees and we were at the American Embassy when it was bombed on the 20th of September 1984. And two other American Servicemen were killed

Response by Sgt Tony Radle made Aug 13 at 2016 9:47 AM

Sgt Tony Radle — Sat, 13 Aug 2016 09:47:35 -0400

Combat - Infantry (Afghanistan 2011)

Response by GySgt Thomas Jeffers made Aug 13 at 2016 10:43 AM

GySgt Thomas Jeffers — Sat, 13 Aug 2016 10:43:34 -0400

That's a damn good question and observation. I was an aircraft mechanic, so that would be support. We had shots fired at us on more than one occasion in Beirut, 1983. In 1991 many "scud" alerts and that is enemy fire sent our way, one exploded right by our squadron. It's kind of frustrating when you can't shoot back, but we were always armed and ready in Desert Storm; Beirut, different animal because when you're not armed you can't engage. I had a pistol pulled on me twice while on recruiting duty in Texas. After retirement, as a JROTC Instructor, had my right leg broken in two places trying to stop a trespasser at our high school. (no, not proud of that day, but at least I did "Engage the enemy". How many have a "combat service ribbon" that never even fired a shot, or if they did, it was random or spastic at best, never resulting in an enemy casualty? Too many to even count, but you will never get stats on that. From that moment on they can honestly claim to have "been in combat". Over the long haul, there are plenty of "support" folks engaged in "combat" in more ways than they will ever be recognized for after decades of service. Hence, this POG has spoken and still willing to take the slings and arrows of speaking the truth. Semper Fi.

Response by PO3 James Bobiney made Aug 14 at 2016 3:02 PM

PO3 James Bobiney — Sun, 14 Aug 2016 15:02:50 -0400

Thank you all for your service.

Response by SFC Richard Manzo made Aug 18 at 2016 12:55 PM

SFC Richard Manzo — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 12:55:26 -0400

SFC, U.S. Army retired. Two tours in VietNam. Last tour with the 1st of the 46th Inf,
196th Light Infantry Bde, 23rd Div (Americal ). Worked out of LZ Pro, South West
of Danig. Platoon Sgt, C Company, 1st Bn, 46th Inf.

Response by SSG Ray Elliott made Aug 18 at 2016 12:57 PM

SSG Ray Elliott — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 12:57:37 -0400

Well my Navy time could be considered either depending on who you talk to. A Navy ship is a combat unit, and a support unit. My involvement was mostly in a support capacity, and I would actually consider myself a non-combatant. My ship sat of the coast in Beirut and Grenada mostly waiting in case Naval Gun Fire Support was required (I was an FT on the 5" 54 Cal Gun system). Other than some illumination rounds we fired used to harass and keep awake the enemy we never did any actual fighting. I have the greatest respect for those who were in actual Battle, but we all did what we were directed to do, and we all did our part. It's really just a matter of timing, and luck as to whether you saw actual combat or not.

Response by Cpl Robert Clark made Aug 18 at 2016 1:23 PM

Cpl Robert Clark — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 13:23:16 -0400

Speed bump 3/9

Response by Cpl Alan Mackin made Aug 18 at 2016 2:06 PM

Cpl Alan Mackin — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 14:06:02 -0400

No combat while in the Marines.
I was a radio repairman in HQ Co. 1st Marines Reg. @ Camp Pendleton in the early 80's. We were trained to go with the grunts when they deployed. Not sure if that is support or not.

3 years later, I was a power lineman in the Air Force Reserve in a Civil Engineering Squadron, so no combat there.

Response by LTC Gordon Cucullu made Aug 18 at 2016 2:17 PM

LTC Gordon Cucullu — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 14:17:17 -0400

Combat. MACVSOG, Vietnam.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2016 3:41 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 15:41:39 -0400

Sgt David G Duchesneau - I've tended to results of combat close up in triage, operating room, recovery, ward, and morgue. I've seen combat up close and personal from unarmed Hueys with big red crosses and armed Hueys with air cavalry patches. I've been caught in the command bunker of a firebase under attack. What does it mean to be in combat . . . do we have to personally close and kill the enemy to be in combat . . . or would it be enough to put your life at risk tending to wounds on both sides and in the middle during a major combat operation? What about the guys who flew Huey DUSTOFF birds through artillery and bombing corridors into hot LZ's to rescue our wounded . . . on half fuel to carry more wounded . . . with no weapons and minimal armor in pilot seat backs . . . they suffered thirty percent killed in my generation . . . so many brave young men . . . killed in combat??? Warmest Regards, Sandy :)

p.s. I think I would say my nurses were "exposed to combat" but not "in combat." We suffer from a form of PTSD know as secondary or caregiver PTSD . . . not primary combat PTSD.

Response by LTC Ed Ross made Aug 18 at 2016 3:44 PM

LTC Ed Ross — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 15:44:35 -0400

Good Question. I was the lone air observe with the 9th Divisions Mobile Riverine Force. Every battle (17) I flew in I was 1,500 feet or less over the action getting shot at. I was decorated for valor on five occasions and all the missions were logged as "combat" not combat support. You can read about my experiences in my upcoming memoir "Live is a Journey to an Unknown Destination: Best Traveled in the Company of Good Americans."

Response by SPC Tom Clark made Aug 18 at 2016 3:58 PM

SPC Tom Clark — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 15:58:34 -0400

I was in a support unit in I Corp, Da Nang, HQ MACV Advisory Team 1. I did visit Quang Tri, Hue, Dong Ha, Phu Bai, Khe Sanh and several firebases in I Corp. I was in country from 11 Oct 70 until 24 July 71. I was shot at, and received mortar and missile fire on a few occasions, but I was never in actual combat or eligible for a CIB. However, I am currently receiving 100% compensation from the VA for my various Agent Orange service connected disabilities. Welcome home all!

Response by COL Keith Nightingale made Aug 18 at 2016 3:59 PM

COL Keith Nightingale — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 15:59:49 -0400

At 1600 on 27 June 1967, I was inserted with 450 Vietnamese Rangers to a LZ in War Zone D approximately 20 kilometers north of Xuan Loc. At 1030 the following morning, I counted 32 people left in our perimeter.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2016 4:58 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 16:58:13 -0400

Look at a sword, a gun, or artillery piece. Very little of it any one of them does the actual killing, the majority is support.

I've flown in Iraq and 2 tours in Afghanistan. I am part of a General Support Aviation Battalion, and have supported air assaults into combat, landed with mortars impacting my LZ, and 107mm rockets landing near me as I worked on my aircraft on the FOB. Combat has changed, I think. The linear fight isn't trained at stateside training events anymore - we expect to have a dynamic fight behind the FLOT.

I also don't think you'd get much response from people who truly feel like they conducted a support role with no combat. Not here.

Response by CPT Dave Brest made Aug 18 at 2016 7:25 PM

CPT Dave Brest — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 19:25:37 -0400

I was in direct combat, with the E/17 Cav of the 173rd Airborne.....with pride !

Response by SGT Bryan Stanley made Aug 18 at 2016 10:59 PM

SGT Bryan Stanley — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 22:59:38 -0400

Where do I start? Ramadi and Fallujah, Iraq 1/114 inf. and 3rdACR. Desert Storm with 4/7 infantry.

Response by SFC Ken James Carlisle Jr. (ret.) made Aug 19 at 2016 12:23 AM

SFC Ken James Carlisle Jr. (ret.) — Fri, 19 Aug 2016 00:23:24 -0400

Col BG asked you not to speak of Units? Thank you! Perhaps, Public Affairs is a good place to go and ask about combat unit locations.

Response by CW4 Angel C. made Aug 19 at 2016 2:38 AM

CW4 Angel C. — Fri, 19 Aug 2016 02:38:33 -0400

You're thinking is outdated! There has been numerous combat support units running combat logistics patrols (convoy escort) in Iraq and Afghanistan getting attacked daily with IEDs and engaging the enemy? Maybe you should refine your question and specify what kind of combat you're curious about. This time and age the military is much smaller than even desert storm so most units, support or not, have engaged in some kind of combat.

Response by Sgt Thomas Brannon made Aug 19 at 2016 1:54 PM

Sgt Thomas Brannon — Fri, 19 Aug 2016 13:54:34 -0400

So far from not being in combat , I never heard a weapon fired. USAF Russian Linguist , stationed
in Northern Turkey , 1967 . (look at a map if you can't make the connection) My life was never in
danger , but I sleep well knowing we did some damn good work that will never see the light of day.

Response by CPT Tom Monahan made Aug 19 at 2016 6:14 PM

CPT Tom Monahan — Fri, 19 Aug 2016 18:14:55 -0400

I was FA and QM. Proud of my service and Supported the Line. It's one team.

Response by SCPO Carl Wayne Boss made Aug 21 at 2016 1:16 AM

SCPO Carl Wayne Boss — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 01:16:11 -0400

So Sgt. Duchesneau is this question an attempt to separate the "Men from the Boys"... is that it? Perhaps inferring that you haven't really served unless you've "been in Combat in a War Zone".

A "War Zone" being defined as somewhere War has actually been declared, is that right?
First Off, last I'd heard the War in Vietnam was never really officially declared, even though many of us were drafted and drug into it... it was officially termed as a "Police Action"... so the 45,000 or so troops that were killed in S/E Asia and Vietnam were "Law Enforcement Officers"? And were never really in Combat? Riigghhtt!

I've got a Brother in Law that's a Sr Master Sgt. who is an Airborne Ranger trained Green Beret, Pathfinder & Paratrooper, that did 6 tours in 'Nam doing LRRP missions, that might dispute the assertion he was never in Combat! He's packin' the CMH, 1 ea. Silver and Bronze Star, DSC and 3 Purple Hearts and about 2 1/2 lbs of shrapnel to this day! You Know the Movie with Mel Gibson, called "We were Soldiers"? That was about my Brother-in-Laws Platoon, that was his first tour, he lost his entire squad during that engagement, he spent the other 5 tours trying to get even with the VC and North Chinese for that loss.

In my view being in Combat is being anywhere where you're being shot at by an enemy or a bad guy, who using live ammunition or other such things in an attempt end your participation in said "fire fight"... am I correct on that score?

Even if it's in the streets in your Home Town, USA! (Yeh... go ahead and laugh... it may be happening sooner than you think!) That includes various kinds of explosive devices, RPGs, IEDs etc. trying to knock down us, our Helos or damage or sink our rolling or floating platforms, regardless of size!

Well Gentlemen the war I participated in for most of my Adult life, was the "War on Drugs", against Drug Smugglers, Criminal Gang Bangers and their associates of multiple races and persuasions all over the U.S. Coast Guard's various and sundry AORs, but particularly in the air, on the ground in the S/W United States and waters in or contiguous to same, though we didn't get a whole lot of press, because the greatest majority of the various Administrations in DC wanted to pretend like "the War on Drugs" didn't exist.

The munitions and such that Coast Guard Law Enforcement Personnel face are just as deadly as anything any Soldier, Sailor, Airman or Marine faced in Vietnam or faces in the Middle East or any other "trouble spot" (read Area of Operations or Combat Zone) where U.S. Forces have been or are involved.

The Drug cartels and their "soldiers" (thugs) are every bit as well equipped as any terrorist or foreign power's soldiers, probably more so, they had the best Drug money could buy. You might want to remember that, in case you ever happen to come across some of them, particularly if your travels take you to Mexico, Central or South America or any of the waters in the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, Sea of Cortez, or the Pacific that are contiguous to those countries!

Unfortunately the biggest things we Coasties had to counter Drug Smuggler's fire power, whether in the air or afloat, was 50 Cals, unless we were on one of the larger floating platforms, 82' or larger.

Personally, I think the question is "non-sequiter"...

Edit

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Aug 21 at 2016 7:32 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 07:32:51 -0400

Sgt David G Duchesneau, I never served in combat; I served during the Cold War.
I did, however, serve in Special Services: as a Sports Director.
-Hope You are Doing Well, Margaret

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2016 12:44 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 12:44:59 -0400

Those who were really in the shit put stickers all over their cars! I've was issued a 9mm, never fired it, never was shot at (at least on the ground).

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2016 12:55 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 12:55:12 -0400

Sgt David G Duchesneau I saw combat on Operations Pipestone Canyon and Durham Peak. I also saw combat on Rat Patrol, and other occasions.

Response by SFC Gordon Lamb made Aug 22 at 2016 3:47 PM

SFC Gordon Lamb — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 15:47:56 -0400

I was attached to a small imbedded training group and saw my fair share of the righteous combat pie in Afghanistan.

Response by TSgt John Martin made Aug 25 at 2016 12:33 PM

TSgt John Martin — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 12:33:38 -0400

I was in the 57th AES out of Clark with time TDY to Saigon, Da Nang, and Cam Rahn. This was from early '70 to mid '71

Response by SGT Richard L. Stone made Aug 25 at 2016 1:09 PM

SGT Richard L. Stone — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 13:09:08 -0400

LZ Nancy was my first encounter, infiltrated by full scale zapper attack. Shot at during mine sweeps, ambushed during path clearing for grunts and mortared during ground clearing LZ Snoopy in the A valley. These are A few.

Response by MSgt Raymond Hickey made Aug 25 at 2016 2:20 PM

MSgt Raymond Hickey — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 14:20:10 -0400

I was AF Security Police, 1970, Vietnam. Perimeter tower duty and response teams...Charlie coming through the wire on numerous occasions. One night we killed 5 sappers...we had no casualties...took automatic weapons fire at a off base compound. When MACV showed up later their officer said "it must have been farmers shooting at birds" he was run off the small compound by our E-4 Buck Sgt.
Penetrations of the wire at night required many interior searches. We had K-9, Sentry dog teams on the perimeter every night, along with selected listening posts. All AF Security Police...

I don't count the numerous stand-off mortar and rocket ( both the 107 and 122 mm type) attacks as being in combat. We, Security Police, we're officially listed as "support, I.e. 35th Combat Support Group. We had no Army, Marines or even ARVAN perimeter guard help. We did have 2, Army 105, gun emplacements to provide H&I Fire. We also had a detachment of #2 Squadron of the Aussies who conducted ambush patrols with SP's. Bottom line, we were the ONLY defensive troops, protecting the base from Charlie, and YES, many of us were in Combat...if Combat means getting shot at and shooting back.

Response by SFC Jason Heritage made Aug 25 at 2016 6:42 PM

SFC Jason Heritage — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 18:42:37 -0400

I am a Bradley Mechanic and have always been attached to Mechanized Infantry or Armored Reconnaissance. I have had both types of deployments but I would rather be with Scouts and their brads in the thick of things manning random far outposts and things other units said no to over being on the FOB. Most every job is needed and I'm not saying that others don't have a right to be proud of their service but a quiet deployment is not for me. Thank you my fellow Servicemen and Ladies for your service!

Response by SSG David Bennett made Aug 25 at 2016 9:31 PM

SSG David Bennett — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 21:31:55 -0400

05-06 09-10

Response by SSG David Bennett made Aug 25 at 2016 9:31 PM

SSG David Bennett — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 21:31:59 -0400

05-06 09-10

Response by PO3 Eugene Rizzardi made Aug 26 at 2016 2:17 PM

PO3 Eugene Rizzardi — Fri, 26 Aug 2016 14:17:38 -0400

I was on an Aircraft Carrier, I received Combat and Hazard pay. USS Constellation CVA-64

Response by PFC Chris Keenen made Aug 26 at 2016 5:06 PM

PFC Chris Keenen — Fri, 26 Aug 2016 17:06:55 -0400

Support. Got stuck in The Stumps, 29 Palms, CA...Ooh Rah 1st MarBat Tankers!

Response by CPT Gary Jugenheimer made Aug 29 at 2016 4:49 PM

CPT Gary Jugenheimer — Mon, 29 Aug 2016 16:49:03 -0400

When I was in RVN, I used to hear the ratio of 1 combat to 7 support persons...so when I thought about our platoon, 3d Plt, D Co, 1/503 Airborne Inf Reg, 173d Abn Bde (May 69 - May 70) there were 196 people (REMF's) backing us up.....

Response by Col Joseph Lenertz made Aug 29 at 2016 5:20 PM

Col Joseph Lenertz — Mon, 29 Aug 2016 17:20:49 -0400

What defines "actually in combat"? In a combat zone sitting in your hooch, or flying over enemy territory giving gas & avoiding flak, or taking rocket and mortar fire in the Green Zone, or must it be hand to hand fighting? The line has really blurred.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2016 8:42 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Aug 2016 20:42:50 -0400

I have fought a few campaigns getting out of bars, but never military combat.

Response by MAJ David Vermillion made Aug 29 at 2016 9:18 PM

MAJ David Vermillion — Mon, 29 Aug 2016 21:18:52 -0400

I was assigned to a Special Forces A Team in 2 Corps around Pleiku. Our job was to operate Search and Destroy Combat Missions. We would go out on patrols with 2 Special Forces members and several CIDG soldiers. We would rotate our patrols in our area of operations. We would call in mortar, artillery and air strikes from time to time. Served two tours from April 1967-70. The second time I was there I was assigned as an instructor at the MACV Recondo School in Nha Trang.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2016 12:40 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 12:40:17 -0400

This is a loaded question.
In today's COIN you have all kind of JTF's like PRT's law and other task forces SOF MITT teams (Not all members on Team are SOF guys all MOS's), Engineer JTF's and Medical and civil affairs missions all going on while combat operations are in the same area and this is why I say that is a loaded question. The bottom line is definition of combat needs to be looked at, as anyone today can and may be in some sort of shooting situation. The term should be Direct action troops and everyone else is combat arms support troops.

I like many do not know if I can say combat or not, because everyone comes back with this you weren't infantry crap, so you didn't and don't do combat. Well we do and have done that, by the way the new Joint Engineering capabilities guide list us as having and being capable of being Infantry as a secondary mission set so I would say we can and do engage in combat. They have also changed the terms as in saying we have limited combat engineering capability, as they use to say we did not do combat engineering. I have two combat action ribbons and combat action badge from Army.

In Desert Storm was with a Recon Task Force Troy the deception task force where we placed the fake tanks and artillery peaces we placed within a mile of the Kuwait border for the left hook fade. We took heavy incoming and got into a small fire fight and the Marine Recon guys doubled around as we laid down Suppressive fire and took the Iraqi patrol out. So is that combat and can I say I am a combat vet the recon guys that were in charge of us say yes.

Then I was in the invasion of Iraq where we had a task force attached to the Marine Combat element and was right there with them waiting to help the combat engineers with MSR construction and combat bridging mission in witch we did 5 during combat operations and got into small fire fights here and there so is that combat. Then when we left Baghdad with the Marines and went down south prepping to move over to AL anbar. We did CA/HA stuff before they even used the term COIN and this was with Marines. We had some cases where teams that had to call CAS and this is why we train how to call for fire and call in CAS and also Nine line so is this combat training yes. The term needs to change, as time and enemy has changed.

My third time was with a COIN Engineer JTF were we went out every day and had meeting with local Iraqi government town ships and Military sometime we were in villages and had sit downs with only us and a small PSD, we had intel everyday that we were being targeted for kidnapping, so we had to be on our toes as we were the only ones out there most of the time and to get a QRF to come extract you was not going to happen, so you have to plan the hell out of those missions is that combat tactics or is it not. The task forces I mentioned had to do the same thing and this is why your question is loaded. Bottom line if you are in a combat zone you are at risk period. We didn't touch on all the logistic convoys that got contact from IED's and complex hits and members were KIA is that combat.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Aug 31 at 2016 12:41 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 12:41:16 -0400

Interesting question given the fact that for the past 15 years in Afghanistan and Iraq combat has been facing the enemy in guerrilla warfare in which we went out the wire on all sorts of missions and were met by IED, ambushes, mortar attacks, snipers, etc. Any service member that was on the receiving end of the enemy's attacks were in combat in these guerrilla wars, because as often as we went out the wire expecting to fight the enemy, the enemy waited to attacks us in a form that ensured they caused more injuries or casualties on us. To answer you yes I was, and there were women in our Civil Affairs Teams that were in combat too, although women were not suppose to be in combat.

Response by SPC Jesse O made Aug 31 at 2016 1:40 PM

SPC Jesse O — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 13:40:54 -0400

09-10 Baghdad ran 200+ missions. Had contact 3 times. . .4 IED's. . .no KIA, 3 wounded.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2016 3:49 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 15:49:46 -0400

I am a keyboard ranger with a special emphasis in modern warfare black ops, I enjoy the headset and nice ergonomic chair for long patrols, my favorite snack is the large bag of Fritos and special attachment of cheese. On special missions with the appropriate training, I utilize my night vision and adjust the resolution of brightness. I've been playing for years and am a real salt dog.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2016 5:45 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 17:45:07 -0400

If you were in any combat zone (hazardous pay authorized), then you were in combat. No point in attempting to discount or quantify someone else's combat experience. One team, one fight!

Response by SGT Alicia Brenneis made Aug 31 at 2016 8:02 PM

SGT Alicia Brenneis — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 20:02:39 -0400

I was support, attached to a combat unit. I saw combat on all three of my deployments.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2016 9:39 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 21:39:37 -0400

My Uncle Roy was in VN from June 67-July 68 with the 173rd MPs. I know he ran convoys with E-Troop 17th CAV. I know he was part of Dak Tu(not sure I spelled it right) and the TET Offensive.

Response by MSgt Hal Weeden, MBA made Aug 31 at 2016 10:28 PM

MSgt Hal Weeden, MBA — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 22:28:14 -0400

Support unit. Joint Area Support Group - Central, Baghdad. We took indirect fire almost daily in the Green Zone, but carried nothing big enough to shoot back across the river. That doesn't constitute real combat. Enemy got off a lucky shot one day and killed two contracting officers inside the other end of our building.

Response by Sgt Alexander Sargent made Sep 1 at 2016 1:10 PM

Sgt Alexander Sargent — Thu, 01 Sep 2016 13:10:25 -0400

I'm full of bullet holes from doing house to house fighting in Falujah. Saw a bit of gunfire in OIF I but after Falujah I don't really consider it combat.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2016 7:34 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 01 Sep 2016 19:34:03 -0400

I saw three separate rounds of combat in V/N. In country for three months, the first time, six months later saw the second round. The day before we left to come "back to the World" I was in the round That was NOT cool!!!!!

Response by CPL Jason Christopher made Sep 1 at 2016 11:29 PM

CPL Jason Christopher — Thu, 01 Sep 2016 23:29:40 -0400

Korea as an Engineer. 13 months. At the time Korea was a spot no one wanted to be at. I'm not sure what troops today think of it. Maybe it's a "vacation" compared to Iraq and Afghanistan. No matter what, we were ready to visit violence at the sound of the siren, or at anytime for that matter. We could do our job black out drunk, because we trained, trained, and trained. I guess you can call an Engineer combat support, but don't think for one second the job is a cake walk. I'm thankful for my time in Korea, it opened my eyes to how fucking thankful we should be as Americans.

Response by SFC William A. McCoy made Sep 2 at 2016 7:20 AM

SFC William A. McCoy — Fri, 02 Sep 2016 07:20:11 -0400

I was on a sweep with an infantry platoon less than two weeks in country. Several recon missions, and hostile fire encounterments. was on active Listening posts down range, etc. yet called combat support.

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made Sep 3 at 2016 4:48 PM

MAJ Keira Brennan — Sat, 03 Sep 2016 16:48:01 -0400

Sgt D. Good question. There's no more FLOT/FEBA and just getting out the gate at a combat / patrol base has been a treat since 2003. What constitutes COMBAT? In the Army it's called a TIC (troops in combat) among other things. Something as simple as convey (now called a Ground Assault Convey or GAC) can go south anytime. I was in OEF 7 and out the gate over 200 days talking to Afghans who in MANY CASES weren't sympathetic to our "help..." I had 4 infantrymen WIA and 1 KIA (from AZARNG). I was under direct rocket attack several times and our based had a couple of DISHKA drive-by's. I jumped out and directed security during both an IED strike (mobility kill) and when the wheel fell off on an M1117 Hummvee. But I was just a civil mil ops officer. I think anyone who's out of the wire daily in Iraq / Afghanistan buttoned up and with a round in the chamber, are in harms way and that's my (new) definition of combat.

Response by SPC Anna Larson made Sep 8 at 2016 12:17 PM

SPC Anna Larson — Thu, 08 Sep 2016 12:17:01 -0400

No combat for me. Hubby however was in Second Armor Forward during the first Gulf War. And the Raffia humanitarian mission following.

Response by TSgt Michael Williamson made Sep 8 at 2016 12:27 PM

TSgt Michael Williamson — Thu, 08 Sep 2016 12:27:04 -0400

I was not in direct combat when deployed. OTOH, in "peacetime" I almost had a vehicle roll on me, a structure collapse on me, heavy equipment snap a hoist and land within inches of me and some "training" artillery fire go off range and come close. I've been shot at and had knives pulled on me. I've been on a plane with a credible bomb threat.

Then there's people with jobs like firefighting and high construction.

I never like this question because it implies that some forms of danger are more worthy than others.

Response by Sgt Able Snider made Sep 8 at 2016 7:51 PM

Sgt Able Snider — Thu, 08 Sep 2016 19:51:10 -0400

Just why?

Response by LTC Tom Domino made Sep 10 at 2016 2:49 PM

LTC Tom Domino — Sat, 10 Sep 2016 14:49:51 -0400

Infantry platoon leader for 8 & 1/2 months with 25th Inf Div in III Corp. in 1970-1971. First insertion, we took incoming fire and I was kicked out @10 to 15 ft above the ground with all my equipment. Nice intro!!!

Response by SSgt Terry Snyder made Sep 10 at 2016 2:52 PM

SSgt Terry Snyder — Sat, 10 Sep 2016 14:52:50 -0400

I DID BOTH WAS AN AIRBOURN WEAPONS SPEC. THAT WAS IN COMBAT AND IN SUPPORT OF TROOPS IN CONTACT SO YOU SEE I DID BOTH....

Response by Sgt Able Snider made Sep 15 at 2016 2:06 PM

Sgt Able Snider — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 14:06:12 -0400

Somalia(24TH MEU SOC) Infantry, Iraq x's 2 (1ST Infantry Div.)Infantry. Haiti, Bosnia in between.

Response by CW2 Michael Mullikin made Sep 15 at 2016 3:21 PM

CW2 Michael Mullikin — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 15:21:53 -0400

An interesting question. In our army, at least since WWII, the ratio of combat troops to support has been about 1:10, but it has never been that cut and dried. During the Battle of the Bulge for example, cooks, clerks, mechanics, bandsmen, signallers and anybody else that could carry a gun was put intoo the line to stop the Germans; similar things have happened in all our wars. While in Iraq I was assigned for awhile to Abu Ghraib prison and latter Camp Victory. In both places I was mortared and rocketed four and five times a week. Since I worked in intelligence did that constitute combat? I'll leave that for you to decide.

Response by Sgt William Coffee made Sep 15 at 2016 5:05 PM

Sgt William Coffee — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 17:05:48 -0400

I was attached to HML 367 RVN 6/69-6/70. I was asked to volunteer to be a door gunner on our Hueys. That lasted 5 1/2 months. I could tell you some stories. I have an air medal with 9 stars.

Response by TSgt Gwen Walcott made Sep 15 at 2016 6:12 PM

TSgt Gwen Walcott — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 18:12:18 -0400

Airborne Reconnaisance --- Unarmed and Unafraid
And yes, we were shot at: MiG-19, MiG-17, MiG-21, Su-7 commonly.
Viet Nam, China, Korea, Libya
Wore the Combat Crew Badge and the Combat Readiness Ribbon, but were classified as Combat Support.
Pick your poison (and be ready to eat it)

Response by Lt Col John Tringali made Sep 18 at 2016 11:26 PM

Lt Col John Tringali — Sun, 18 Sep 2016 23:26:31 -0400

Yeah, I was in AF combat. By that I mean, yes, I saw RPGs and shoulder fired SAMS, small arms and a few mortars sent my way, but as fast as we fly, as good as our defensive systems are and as little time as we spend out in the open on the ground, it was nothing compared to the ground units or convoys. Our main threat was the terrain, and not crashing into it. We lost a few jets to that, which is terrible because as the adage goes; every crash is an aircraft the enemy didn't have to shoot down.

Response by Cpl Perry Peterman made Sep 22 at 2016 12:39 PM

Cpl Perry Peterman — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 12:39:52 -0400

I fought for the best spot in line at the Soba truck.

Response by TSgt Alan Richard "Rick" Thomas made Sep 22 at 2016 2:13 PM

TSgt Alan Richard "Rick" Thomas — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 14:13:03 -0400

Our job as ECM/EWS techs was to make sure the aircrews and hopefully the planes returned from their missions. Ground support for air operations.

Response by CW4 Brad Thompson made Sep 22 at 2016 2:16 PM

CW4 Brad Thompson — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 14:16:58 -0400

I was part of the US Army CID/Protective Services Unit - "PSU" (Diplomatic Protection for lack of a better term) in Iraq and Afghanistan. In Iraq we were in direct contact on many occasions either by mortars, rockets and/or weapons fire. Finding random bullet holes in our vehicles after a mission was not uncommon, being at or near the "X" during mortar and rocket attacks was a norm. Our mission was not to fight back, but to get the dignitary(s) - UN Mission to Iraq, Congressional Delegations, VIPs of all sorts and even USO Tour groups - away from harms way and off of the "X". It was being in combat (being engaged by an enemy combatant) without being able to actually defend ourselves. One of the reasons that the PSU assignment is known as 'Bullet Catching 101'. Our job was to literally take the round if needed to insure those we were protecting/escorting were not hit and gotten to safety.

Response by SSG Arthur Williams made Sep 22 at 2016 3:01 PM

SSG Arthur Williams — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 15:01:21 -0400

I Troop 11th Armored Calvary Regiment, TET OFFENSIVE. If that is not combat then you, can go.

Response by SPC Tony R made Sep 22 at 2016 6:52 PM

SPC Tony R — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 18:52:26 -0400

Sent to Nam as riflemen but was made a field interrogator. Spent about three months back and forth to the field with elements of the Third Battalion , First Infantry Division at Lia Khe. Participated in search and destroy and sealing villages. Experienced a few firefights and a night of hell receiving friendly 105 fire. Later worked as intelligence analysis in Lia Khe. I was there for the TET offensive in 1968. There was not a day that we did not have incoming. In March '68 while waiting for the Freedom Bird at Ton son Nhut Airport we were rocketed and had to wait for military plane out of Nam. "No mission too difficult, no sacrifice too great. Duty first !" Big Red One

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2016 12:52 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 23 Sep 2016 00:52:02 -0400

You are right. it does not matter. Furthermore I AM NOT IN FAVOR of the premise of this question. The VA likes to determine our ability to access benefits based on this question. Was your injury combat related. Or was it a training or some other type of injury. Dental benefits are a perfect example. This question should be tossed out. Pride in The character of our service is ok. But let us remember one team one fight! Let us not discrimate or alienate members of our ranks based on this question. It is just wrong. What does it matter. We serve. We go where we are sent. We do what we are ordered to do.every service member in a combat zone is a soldier in harms way regardless of MOS or unit affiliation. It is just that simple...

Response by Cpl Vic Eizenga made Sep 24 at 2016 1:45 AM

Cpl Vic Eizenga — Sat, 24 Sep 2016 01:45:44 -0400

USMC 1964 - 1968 only 1 MOS 0351 now do you know what I did? Fox 2nd Battalion 7 Marines 1ST Marine Division 7/1964 -12 /1965 Hotel 2nd Battalion 1ST Marines 3Rd Marine Division 1/1966 - 6/1966 Alpha 1ST Battalion 2nd Marines 2nd Marine Division 7/1966 - 3 /1968

Response by SGT Gary Vaught made Sep 29 at 2016 12:26 PM

SGT Gary Vaught — Thu, 29 Sep 2016 12:26:24 -0400

Vietnam was tough place..my MOS was track vehicle mechanic but I got sent to a signal corps to start with but they have no use for a mechanic..so only got to stay there couple of weeks while they got my orders together for being sent to DongHa only a click from DMZ and we saw action almost daily...stayed in the field until got medivac out for wounds I received which earned me a stay in the hospital for bout a year..
WELCOM HOME all that made it and rest in peace for those who didn't get to come home.
They say time heals all wounds but I can say for sure my Vietnam days are still fresh on my mind...

Response by CSM Louis Rothenstein made Sep 29 at 2016 2:16 PM

CSM Louis Rothenstein — Thu, 29 Sep 2016 14:16:15 -0400

I was both. As an advisor, I worked with ARVN staff. On operations with a Ranger Bn or Infantry Regt, I was combat. CIB, ARVN Ranger Badge. Spent more time in support after getting injured.

Response by Cpl Robert Robertson made Sep 29 at 2016 2:52 PM

Cpl Robert Robertson — Thu, 29 Sep 2016 14:52:07 -0400

Grunt and tunnel rat. 1/26 and later 1/5 marines in RVN ( to be clear I did my tunnels in the 26 which, no offence to the 5th marines which took me in , but I think of the 26 as MY regiment

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2016 2:10 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Sep 2016 14:10:38 -0400

Well Sir, I was both in a Support Unit and in actual combat. CAB approved out in the road getting my combat arms brothers the equipment they required daily.

Response by PO3 James Bobiney made Oct 1 at 2016 12:24 PM

PO3 James Bobiney — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 12:24:48 -0400

I was a Combat Support Medic with the 67th CSH(deactivated) during the Gulf War Era. I say Combat Support Medic because I view combat as the Medics in the line units out doing patrols and visiting the villages and getting in the fire fights. Medics in a CSH that is fixed facility in Riyadh or some such place(even though it's in theater) is not combat to me. But they are still allowed to wear the medals. Thank you all for your service, no matter where you served. Hooah.

Response by SGT Brandon McCarty made Oct 6 at 2016 12:19 PM

SGT Brandon McCarty — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 12:19:37 -0400

75th Ranger Regiment. Nothing but direct combat.

Response by SPC Marcus Mayfield made Oct 6 at 2016 4:39 PM

SPC Marcus Mayfield — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 16:39:27 -0400

For me, it was right in the name of my unit: 296th Brigade Support Battalion. I had 7 months at KAF, 3 of which were spent manning a Battalion-built MWR facility.

Response by SSG(P) D. Wright Downs made Oct 8 at 2016 4:15 PM

SSG(P) D. Wright Downs — Sat, 08 Oct 2016 16:15:54 -0400

No Combat---Just assigned to Nuclear Units during the Cold War that were terrorist targets. Some of the nasty folks(Red Brigade, Bader-Meinhoff, etc,) got a bit up close and personal. Some places where we liked to be were in their way such as gasthauses, airports, main exchanges, bridges, festivals in Munchen, to just name a few. Seven years or better of that for 24/7 is a bit much. But, not combat, Sarge. Not a damn bit of combat. PTSD up the ass, is all, thank you. Oh, the fun part is being in charge of the RSEP and setting up a field site at o-dark-30 with your men and women and not having any rounds for your weapons and it is during terrorist season...that was my favorite game time. The weird thing is that i loved it. This woman missed it so much when I got out.

Response by CPT James Hubbard made Oct 13 at 2016 12:28 PM

CPT James Hubbard — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 12:28:49 -0400

2nd Battalion 39th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division during TET 1968. Saw my share of combat.

Response by Cpl Barry Greive made Oct 13 at 2016 12:30 PM

Cpl Barry Greive — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 12:30:45 -0400

Support, Marine A4 Skyhawk mechanic

Response by SSgt Lucas Dyer M.S. made Oct 14 at 2016 6:43 PM

SSgt Lucas Dyer M.S. — Fri, 14 Oct 2016 18:43:40 -0400

Combat. 2003 Operation Southern Watch CTF-53 and 2009 Operation Khanjar. OOHRAH and slay bodies.

Response by MSgt Mike P. made Oct 20 at 2016 12:48 PM

MSgt Mike P. — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 12:48:26 -0400

Support, scheduled twice for combat, both times changed to support. I have a guardian angle that worked overtime!

Response by MAJ Tom Lawless made Oct 20 at 2016 12:57 PM

MAJ Tom Lawless — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 12:57:23 -0400

Service support in Iraq 03-04. Was in quite a few fire fights.

Response by Cpl Chris A Bear made Oct 20 at 2016 1:10 PM

Cpl Chris A Bear — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 13:10:01 -0400

Heart of AFG, Helmand Provice, Musa Qala district. Firefights almost every day. They slowed down when it got real hot and towards the end of the deployment after we wiped most of them out. Oorah!

Response by SSgt Estanislado Quinones made Oct 20 at 2016 1:11 PM

SSgt Estanislado Quinones — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 13:11:06 -0400

I was a recruiter. We had a saying that said, "recruiting duty where you see the enemy on a day to day basis". Most of the recruiters would rather be in a combat zone dodging bullets than looking for some undisciplined 17 and 18 year old kids that treated you like shit and there was nothing you could do about it.

Response by Cpl Derrick Sharpe made Oct 20 at 2016 3:33 PM

Cpl Derrick Sharpe — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 15:33:11 -0400

i was and proud as hell of it regardless how it left me honorably retired purple heart grunt from our nations good ol' U.S. MARINE CORPS!!!!

Response by CW2 Dan Danser made Oct 21 at 2016 1:13 PM

CW2 Dan Danser — Fri, 21 Oct 2016 13:13:44 -0400

Pleiku Vietnam, 1969. pilot

Response by PFC Stephen Eric Serati made Oct 22 at 2016 12:37 PM

PFC Stephen Eric Serati — Sat, 22 Oct 2016 12:37:15 -0400

B,Co 1-502 Inf,assigned to Alpha Co 9-101st Aviation as a Door Gunner,Iraq 90/1991

Response by SP5 Sam Hollis made Oct 27 at 2016 12:38 PM

SP5 Sam Hollis — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 12:38:09 -0400

If being shot in the chest by a 30 caliber, and shrapnel
In the legs I guess I qualify.1st Inf.Div. Vietnam 1966

Response by SPC George Long made Oct 27 at 2016 12:46 PM

SPC George Long — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 12:46:50 -0400

I was a Military Policeman in Viet Nam. That put me in a support unit. The missions we ran put us in combat, convoy escort, QRF (only one in the area), Night Patrol in the countryside, guard the ferries, protect the engineers, guard the bridges. Yep support. Once held a bridge with 1 other American for the ARVN. We held it all night, they arrived about 0830. 35 kicks from the nearest unit....QRF was my own shift..........
Supporting the three:
"I am the Infantry, follow me
Not a foot soldier, we're much more you see
We'll take the fight to the enemy
I am the infantry, first of "THE THREE"
"I am the Cavalry, follow me
A modern horse soldier in an APC
Charging straight forward to the enemy
I am the Cav, most daring of "THE THREE"

"I am the Armor, follow me
The arm of decision I'll always be
When the going gets rough, call on me
I am Armor, the best of "THE THREE"

Armor, Cav and Infantry
Rush headlong into the melee
Breaking the lines like an angry sea
Deep into enemy territory

"Approaching a crossroads, what do we see
The area secured by two lonely MP's
Directing us forward, how can this be
How long has he been waiting for me"

"What a crazy person an MP must be
He has no firepower or armor like me
And I thought everyone followed "THE THREE"
Armor, Cav and Infantry
"I am the MP, don't follow me
You don't want to be where I will be
Guarding a crossroad, waiting for "THE THREE"
Just my partner, a sixteen, a sixty and me"

"With the objective taken, wait and see
No one will remember the lonely MP
Who held this ground so they could run free
But that's my job, supporting "THE THREE"

Written in 1983 by Sergeant Allan L. Perkins of the 198th Military Police Battalion

Response by LCpl Phillip Cornwell made Oct 27 at 2016 12:49 PM

LCpl Phillip Cornwell — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 12:49:58 -0400

3/7 Kilo Co 3/7 USMC; 0311; 1993-1997; Saw combat in Mogadishu, 1995.

Response by SN Dorance Gray made Oct 27 at 2016 1:42 PM

SN Dorance Gray — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 13:42:29 -0400

support on the USS Brinkley Bass DD887 1965-1967

Response by SSG Ken Gilder made Oct 27 at 2016 3:33 PM

SSG Ken Gilder — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 15:33:21 -0400

The front line troops called those that did not serve on the front lines, "REMF's" (Rear Echelon Mother F*****s. But there were some of us in the rear, that they actually liked. They usually did not tick off the cooks, or the folks in Finance. They liked the broadcasters, too, saying that they brought a "touch of home" to the hell hole that was Vietnam.

Response by Sgt Gary Steuer made Nov 3 at 2016 10:16 PM

Sgt Gary Steuer — Thu, 03 Nov 2016 22:16:46 -0400

Yes , RVN 65 -67 , Assigned to 2 /4 , then to 1 /9 , then to Civic Action out of DaNang to CAC ....

Response by Lt Col Allen Naugle made Nov 10 at 2016 11:51 AM

Lt Col Allen Naugle — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 11:51:58 -0500

I guess it kind of depends on your definition of support unit. The first time I was at Al Udeid. Worst threat we faced was the LNs not being allowed on base to work in the chow hall. Second time, though, was to the Baghdad airport. Sounds from incoming mortar rounds would get your attention. Sounds from the outgoing return fire, when it happened, gave you a wry smile as you went about whatever you were (or weren't...) doing at the time.

Response by SSG David Spooner made Nov 10 at 2016 11:54 AM

SSG David Spooner — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 11:54:19 -0500

Not a lick in Desert Storm other than staring at the top of a rocket in the launcher on the Iraqi vehicle our wrecker operator hauled in......
Got shoot at and returned fire numerous times in 2003....
Dodged IEDs, mortars and rockets in 04,05, 07 and 08....

And I was the Motor Sergeant for my units from 03 until 08. Most people that have been to Iraq or Afghanistan have seen some kind of combat. Maybe not direct, in your face combat but something that can make for a very bad day and a letter home to folks from your Commander.

Response by SPC Bruce Knowles made Nov 10 at 2016 12:04 PM

SPC Bruce Knowles — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 12:04:01 -0500

I may be wrong, but the last time I heard a number for that, it was 102 support people to 1 infantryman/soldier

Response by Sgt Howard McKinnis made Nov 10 at 2016 12:41 PM

Sgt Howard McKinnis — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 12:41:04 -0500

Khe Sane 67/68 3/26 L CAP O1 I 3/4 69/70

Response by SSgt Lynn Jewett Jr made Nov 10 at 2016 1:22 PM

SSgt Lynn Jewett Jr — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 13:22:22 -0500

I was in Air Force from Jan 1978 to 1983. I may not have been in combat but at the time I was ready to deploy on a moments notice. I was stationed at Clark AB in the Philippines (combat unit) then at Hill AFB in Utah (combat/training). My job was Aircraft Maintenance (crew chief) and I did numerous TDY's in many "hot spots", Korea, Egypt, and Norway, and we were ready to go at any moment.

Response by SSG Courtney Ellis made Nov 10 at 2016 1:45 PM

SSG Courtney Ellis — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 13:45:49 -0500

I was a medic attached to both!!

Response by SSG Courtney Ellis made Nov 10 at 2016 1:48 PM

SSG Courtney Ellis — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 13:48:13 -0500

I was attached to both, but would have preferred the a combat arms unit any day of the week!! The tight knit group was much better..........really!!!

Response by Sgt Loren Petty made Nov 10 at 2016 9:44 PM

Sgt Loren Petty — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 21:44:25 -0500

As a member of the First Marine Brigade in an Infantry Company (Kilo 3/3) on WestPac in '79, '80, and '81, we were the "support" unit for the whole neighborhood, and the granddaddy of today's MEUs. I am happy to say that I never engaged in combat. And proud to say that one of my company commanders was Captain James Mattis. Happy Birthday Marines.

Response by Cpl Clayton Poff made Nov 15 at 2016 9:34 PM

Cpl Clayton Poff — Tue, 15 Nov 2016 21:34:39 -0500

1990 Mamba Station 3/8 Kilo Raiders (our unit got awarded the CAR). My Dad was at the 38th parallel, when the Chinese came over, he became platoon Staff Sgt after only being in 6 months.

Response by SSG Arthur Williams made Nov 17 at 2016 2:19 PM

SSG Arthur Williams — Thu, 17 Nov 2016 14:19:32 -0500

Chose Armor the first time, went Vietnam, was in TET. Reup went to supply

Response by Cpl Don "GUNNY" Miller made Nov 20 at 2016 10:29 AM

Cpl Don "GUNNY" Miller — Sun, 20 Nov 2016 10:29:40 -0500

VMO-6 1969 Quang Tri, Dong Ha, Khe Sanh and the Ashau Valley. Door Gunner Huey Gunship.

Response by 1SG James Matthews made Nov 24 at 2016 9:34 AM

1SG James Matthews — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 09:34:19 -0500

66/67 Sr Medic B Co. 1/26th-------68/69 Adv. Tm 162 Viet. Abn. (advisor)

Response by MSgt Ronald Hays made Nov 24 at 2016 11:49 AM

MSgt Ronald Hays — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 11:49:16 -0500

In all our wars (I was in I Corps, Chu Lai, TET 1968) the number of support personnel was much greater than the infantry. That being said, we all put our lives on the line while in a combat zone. The enemy doesn't have to kill us in a fire-fight or hand-to-hand, they also use mortars and rockets, grenades, RPGs, IEDs and a wide assortment of booby traps. During TET of 1968 we took over 100 incoming rockets (122s and B-40s) mortars and sapper attacks-that counts as combat also. One of the jobs considered highly safe was air traffic control and GCA (Ground Control radar)-one day in May of 1968 in the broad daylight around 1700, Charley unloaded 5 rockets, no doubt hoping they would take out some aircraft on the flight line. Instead a GCA van took a direct hit killing 3 Marines inside the van. In short, not all CAR's and Purple Hearts were awarded for direct combat.

Response by SFC Henry Bartosik made Nov 24 at 2016 11:56 AM

SFC Henry Bartosik — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 11:56:54 -0500

Response by Cpl Kirk Lurch Davis made Nov 24 at 2016 12:25 PM

Cpl Kirk Lurch Davis — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 12:25:02 -0500

Never saw combat (1980-1988) but supported Marines across the globe with Class IX repair parts.

Response by SCPO Larry Poffenbarger made Nov 24 at 2016 4:01 PM

SCPO Larry Poffenbarger — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 16:01:30 -0500

Just for the hell of it,why does this question keep showing up? I admire and respect those who served in direct combat but rememwaber all those who were backing you in one way or another. I was on a tin can furnishings off shore support. Closest I came was about three thousand yards from where the Marines were going ashore. I still think I did what was required of me. And most of the guys who were in the middle of the bad shit tell me I was one lucky SOB to be where I was.

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Dec 1 at 2016 12:01 PM

PO1 Donald Hammond — Thu, 01 Dec 2016 12:01:00 -0500

Submarines are always on the front line. Boomers are ready to blow the crap out of the world at a moment's notice. Fast attacks are like recon/snipers. Sneak around to see what is going on and if necessary blow the crap out of something and run remaining undetected.

Response by Cpl Vic Eizenga made Dec 8 at 2016 2:11 PM

Cpl Vic Eizenga — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 14:11:02 -0500

Fox 2/7 Utters Battalion 1964 1966 Qui Nhon - Chu Lai. Hotel 2/1 1966 Phu Bai Alpha 1/2 1966 - 1968

Response by Sgt Tommy Johnson made Dec 15 at 2016 1:06 PM

Sgt Tommy Johnson — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 13:06:31 -0500

I served in combat.

Response by LTC Timothy O'Neill made Dec 15 at 2016 1:18 PM

LTC Timothy O'Neill — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 13:18:11 -0500

Combat--platoon leader one year and company commander the next (armor). Long ago.

Response by PO2 David Cook made Dec 15 at 2016 7:32 PM

PO2 David Cook — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 19:32:35 -0500

I was stationed with 1st MEB 1st FMF MAG-24 HMM-265 and MWSS-174 as the squadron Corpsman out of MCAS, Kaneohe Hawaii. I never saw combat since I had torn my right knee up a month before Sadam Hussien invaded Kuwait. I was awaiting reconstructive knee surgery and stayed back while my fellow marines deployed to the Gulf for Desert Storm. So I was assigned to an air combat unit but ended up being support back home.

Response by CW2 Fred Baker made Dec 22 at 2016 2:30 PM

CW2 Fred Baker — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 14:30:39 -0500

Companies B, then A 1st Aviation Battalion, 1st Infantry Division. Oct/68 - Oct/69

Response by SFC Michael W. made Dec 22 at 2016 4:22 PM

SFC Michael W. — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 16:22:39 -0500

Actual combat during the REAL Desert Storm '91 and Africa during Support Hope/Restore Hope...I was in a Signal Brigade supporting Armored Divisions during those missions.

Response by Cpl Vic Eizenga made Jan 7 at 2017 3:40 PM

Cpl Vic Eizenga — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 15:40:29 -0500

After ITR My MOS is 0351 from August 1964 to March 1968. Fox 2/7/1st and 3rd Divisions August 1964 - January 1966 State side and Vietnam. Hotel 2/1 3rd Division January 1966 - June 1966 Vietnam July 1966 - March 1968 Alpha 1/2 State side and Gitmo. 24 on 24 off the fence line.

Response by CW2 Fred Baker made Feb 26 at 2017 11:42 AM

CW2 Fred Baker — Sun, 26 Feb 2017 11:42:59 -0500

The idea of support vs combat can sometimes be a little blurred. I was a slick and later C&C pilot in Vietnam. We flew a lot of support missions and even though it was called support, when the bullets start flying, you are returning fire and the fan is throwing a lot of excrement, combat and support become mere words and survival is the new reality.

Response by FN Charlie Spivey made Mar 2 at 2017 11:51 AM

FN Charlie Spivey — Thu, 02 Mar 2017 11:51:01 -0500

I was aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Half Moon with CG RON 3 in Vietnam. We did boardings and seeing as how we had a 5" mount, we also provided Gunfire Support.

Response by CW2 Fred Baker made Mar 2 at 2017 4:44 PM

CW2 Fred Baker — Thu, 02 Mar 2017 16:44:27 -0500

I was support. As a helicopter pilot in Vietnam, I received a Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart and Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Bronze Star for actions in combat, but I was support. LOL

Response by SSG Ken Gilder made Mar 9 at 2017 7:46 PM

SSG Ken Gilder — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 19:46:08 -0500

I played records on the electric radio. I was a DJ for Armed Forces Radio.

Response by SGT Gary Krutke made Mar 9 at 2017 8:00 PM

SGT Gary Krutke — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 20:00:49 -0500

I was in a Combat role! wounded once but shot 6 times

Response by Sgt Chris Conklin made Mar 9 at 2017 8:42 PM

Sgt Chris Conklin — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 20:42:42 -0500

I was in a CLB witch is a support unit by design but we saw combat all the time on our way hauling bombs band-aids and bullets.

Response by Sgt Aaron Scott made Mar 10 at 2017 2:07 AM

Sgt Aaron Scott — Fri, 10 Mar 2017 02:07:30 -0500

I would say I was support. Just couldn't get out front, because I was part of the CE. MEU was the team with no war going on. We got shit done!

Response by Yannick Kerlogot made Mar 16 at 2017 1:01 PM

Yannick Kerlogot — Thu, 16 Mar 2017 13:01:43 -0400

yep combat unit Sir, but without support, can do nothing.

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Mar 24 at 2017 7:59 PM

SSG Mark Franzen — Fri, 24 Mar 2017 19:59:10 -0400

I served my country for 16.5 years and trained for combat but never went.
SSG MARK FRANZEN
USA VET

Response by PFC Donnie Harold Harris made Nov 28 at 2017 7:58 PM

PFC Donnie Harold Harris — Tue, 28 Nov 2017 19:58:45 -0500

We did DMZ duty and missile security and walked a lot of mountain tops with live ammo. Once went to a University in the capital and land by helicopters on a railroad tracks with live ammo But never shot a soul.

Response by SFC Charles McVey Sr. made Jan 15 at 2018 11:21 PM

SFC Charles McVey Sr. — Mon, 15 Jan 2018 23:21:36 -0500

As a MP many folks assume we are Support, however we have been shot at, came under Mortar Fire and yes Sniper fire. First Cavalry Division (Air Mobile) 15th MP Company, 3rd Platoon, we were attached to 3rd BDE HQ when the BDE was on operations, we processed VC Prisoners and made sure they were searched and secured until we could turn them over to the ARVN's I have been shot at several times while also providing Convoy Security for the Forward Support Units when they moved from one Forward Support area to another to insure that they were close enough to get the supplies to the Battalions conducting Operations.