Spring 2021 - Society of the First Infantry Division
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Spring 2021
A P U B LI CAT I O N O F T H E S O C I E T Y O F T H E F I RS T I N FA N T RY D I V I S I O N
NO MISSION TOO DIFFICULT. NO SACRIFICE TOO GREAT. DUT Y FIRST!
60188
Carol Stream, IL
Permit No. 6080
PAID Wheaton, IL 60189
U.S. Postage 1s151 Winfield Rd.
Non-Profit
First Division Museum at Cantigny Park
Spring 2021, #1; ISSN 1092-4892
Copyright © 2021 All rights reserved.
The Bridgehead Sentinel is published in accordance with the terms of
the 1957 agreement between the Society of the First Infantry Division
and the Cantigny First Division Foundation.
ADDRESS CHANGES AND DUES
Please send DUES and ADDRESS CHANGES to:
Society of the First Infantry Division
PO Box 2307
Fort Riley, KS 66442
SOCIETY OF THE FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION
Society HQ Mailing Address: Administrative Staff:
Society of the Quartermaster
First Infantry Division sfidqm@gmail.com
PO Box 2307 Phone:
Fort Riley, KS 66442 785.579.6761 (KS)
http://www.1stID.org 785.579.6762 (Fax)
President: 855.236.7076 (Toll Free)
Ron Watts
Executive Director:
Phyllis Fitzgerald
sfidevents@gmail.com
785-375-3905
BRIDGEHEAD SENTINEL
PRODUCTION
Bridgehead Mailing Address: Staff: Dave Blake
Bridgehead Sentinel Jeff Reiter
c/o First Division Museum at Cantigny
1s151 Winfield Road E-Mail:
Wheaton, IL 60189-3353 dblake@fdmuseum.org
Phone:
630.260.8234
Fax:
630.260.9298
EDITORIAL POLICY
The purpose of the Bridgehead Sentinel is to serve the needs of the Society and the
interests of its members by:
-Disseminating information from the Society to its members;
-Publishing articles and items of interest to Society members;
-Promoting the history and heritage of the Big Red One.
The Bridgehead Sentinel staff reserves the right to edit all articles for length,
grammar, and content.
The Bridgehead Sentinel does not publish material relating to political issues or
campaigns, paid advertisements or solicitations, or material that may be considered
defamatory or libelous.
All stories, photos and other items sent to the Bridgehead Sentinel will be automat-
ically considered for donation to the First Division Museum in Wheaton, Illinois, unless
otherwise requested.
In This Issue
Update from Society President............. 4
Black Scarf Battalion Poem.............. 13
Update from the Executive Director..... 5
Gene Ramey, WWII Veteran.............. 13
FEATURES
Annual Reunion Update........................ 9
Operation Desert Storm Timeline.... 20
Local Society Chapter Updates.............. 10-11
KLIK Radio in Vietnam.................... 21
SOCIETY NEWS
2021 Raffle Tickets............................... 12
Growing our Membership.................... 17
Membership Form................................ 18
1st Division Monument Update............ 19
BRO Soldiers Volunteering................... 22
Foundation News.................................. 22-23
Quartermaster...................................... 28-29
Letter from the CG....................................6-7
MUSEUM ACTIVE DUTY
Keeping up with the 1st Division..............7
1st CAB Assumes Command......................7
Nuremberg Trials Exhibit........................ 30-31
Upcoming Virtual Events......................... 31
A U.S. First Division Artilleryman in the doorway of his bombproof
shelter utilizes a few peaceful moments in writing to the folks at
home. March 7,1918.
Spring 2021 3
Society News
Letter from the President
By LTG (Ret.) Ron Watts
A blessed 2021 to all Society financial needs, to include COVID crisis, reorganized the plan to make our 2022 Society
members and your families! donating fifty-two (52) $50 Fort management team, and found Reunion in Fort Worth a memora-
May I also offer a special Riley Commissary gift certificates new sources of revenue. Most ble experience. I encourage you
salute for a job well done to all of to soldiers that needed assistance importantly, we continued to have to reach out to Phyllis Fitzgerald
our Desert Storm BRO Veter- during the 2020 holiday season. members who love this Society with your ideas as we make plans
ans, as this year marks the 30th One of the Society’s most and 1st Division, proven by their for a great reunion in Texas!
anniversary of the start and end of successful programs is the will- generous tax-deductible donations Our Washington DC Monu-
“The 100-hour War.” All military ingness of our members to donate to help others. ment initiative to add the 631
that served with the Big Red One funds to purchase Society annual I encourage you to support names of BRO soldiers lost in
in Desert Storm demonstrated memberships for BRO active-duty our initiative to increase the post-911 operations is once again
courage and professionalism soldiers. One of our members number of Society Chapters moving forward. Congress has
under extreme environmental donated $3,000 to purchase around the country. See details approved the “First Act” autho-
combat conditions. Like those memberships. This is a great way on the Society website and in this rizing revisions to the Monument
who served in other conflicts, they of getting young soldiers, who issue of the Bridgehead Sentinel. base and addition of the names.
clearly lived up to our motto: “No might not otherwise join, inter- Congratulations to MG D.A. The National Park Service is
Mission Too Difficult, No Sacrifice ested in the Society. Sims, our Commanding General, now reviewing our proposed
Too Great, Duty First!” Phyllis and I developed a set on the initiative to honor BRO modifications. Once approved,
I thank all of you for your of strategic goals for 2021 that Medal of Honor recipients by we will proceed to requesting
support in making 2020 a will focus our limited resources. renaming selected streets on Fort construction bids. We estimate
financial success as we were These goals are: 1. Increase Riley. More information is inside the need for $400,000 to make
able balance our operating membership among 1st Division this edition of BHS. the necessary modifications and
budget, and place $50,000 in veterans of post-911 service; I regretted having to cancel currently have about $250,000 on
the Society Investment Account. 2. Information Operations that our 2021 reunion in Albu- hand. Your donations are greatly
Your memberships and dona- keep our members informed and querque. My earlier email to appreciated.
tions, combined with the Society reminded of significant dates in you provided our rationale. In I look forward to working with
staff’s excellent work in recruiting Division history; 3. Support for summary, I would not take the you as we continue to support
corporate sponsors and reducing our members; and 4. Support for risk of our members developing Society objectives.
operating costs, made this possi- the Active Division. COVID while in attendance. While
ble. Your Society also supported I am optimistic about the vaccinations continue to rise, the
active-duty soldiers’ emergency Society’s future. We endured the risk outweighed the benefits. We
Keep Your Contact We value our members and
want to make sure that we keep
in touch with you. It is especially
Please contact us with any
changes in your status as soon as
possible so that we can update
How to contact us:
Society of the 1st Infantry Division
P.O. Box 2307
Info Up-to-Date! important that we have your
current address, phone number
your member profile. Fort Riley, KS 66442
sfidkansas@gmail.com
and email address. If anything 785-579-6761
changes, let us know!
4 Bridgehead Sentinel
Letter from the Executive Director
By CW3 (Ret) Phyllis Fitzgerald
Left: Phyllis Fitzgerald during her deployment to Operation Desert
Storm with the 1st Infantry Division.
Greetings everyone! families as needed. We also were for emails that will come from ients. Streets will be renamed
I hope this letter finds you able to donate to family resource the addresses admin@1stid.org for each one of them. I spoke
well and staying healthy. I was groups in support of events for and sfid1919@gmail.com. Our with some of our members who
hoping to meet many of you this Soldiers and their families. website (www.1stid.org) is a served with several of our Medal
year in person but with Covid-19 You will see in the magazine good resource for staying current of Honor recipients. The stories
it was not possible. However, I do that local chapters are still being with the Society, Quartermaster, that they shared are very powerful
enjoy meeting you on the phone, formed. We recently had one Scholarships, Monument, and and a part of our history we must
through email and letters, and on stand up in Chattanooga, Tenn. If much more. never forget.
social media. you want to get involved in a local Let’s talk about 2021. General Planning for our 2022 in Fort
To our Desert Storm Veter- chapter and there isn’t one avail- Watts and I developed a set of Worth is in the works. I welcome
ans, thank you, job well done able, we will work with you to get Strategic Goals to guide our activi- your ideas and thoughts as we put
and welcome home. It is hard one started. Thank you to all who ties throughout the year. it all together. “Things are bigger
to believe it has been 30 years have volunteered to lead this effort We started this year off in Texas,” the saying goes, so let’s
since the start and end of Desert in your community. Chapters are a with our “First Vehicle Raffle” make our next gathering the best
Storm. Our Division was led way to stay connected, reconnect (Jeep Raffle), to raise funds for one ever.
under the superb leadership of and meet others. the Society. The response and We were all happy to learn
General Thomas Rhame. He is a Our membership continues support from of our members was that efforts to add the names of
great leader and someone that to hold steady. Thank you to our phenomenal. The plan is to have a 631 BRO Soldiers lost in post-911
my husband and I respect deeply. members who have sponsored vehicle raffle every spring. operations will have their names
The Division accomplished the Active-Duty Soldiers, bringing Even though the reunion is added to our Lady Victory Monu-
mission and we returned home to them into the Society. cancelled, we will have a live ment in Washington, DC. Thank
our children and families safely. Every day we continue to virtual raffle ticket drawing and you to all those who have worked
Despite the pandemic, 2020 update our membership database. awarding of the plaques to the diligently to make this happen.
was a great year for the Society. Constant maintenance is required Non-Commissioned Officer and Donations are still needed for this
We were able to raise money because we want to stay in touch Soldier of the Year for 2021 on project; please visit the Society’s
through raffles, Match Day fund- with you! Thanks to everyone Saturday, July 31, at Noon (Central website for a link and more
raising, and we received dona- who returned the data sheet with time) from Society Headquarters details.
tions from the generosity of our corrected contact information. on Fort Riley. I hope you enjoy this issue of
members. We provided commis- Communication is import- This year is the Big Red One the Bridgehead Sentinel. I enjoy
sary gift cards during the holiday ant in keeping our members “Year of Honor,” an initiative by 1 your phone calls, letters and
season to the 1st Infantry Division up to date. I communicate with ID Commanding General MG D.A. emails, and feel honored to be
and Fort Riley Chaplain’s office to email regularly. Please check Sims to honor the 37 1st Infantry your executive director.
be distributed to the Soldiers and your spam/junk folders often Division Medal of Honor recip-
Spring 2021 5
Active Duty
Letter from the CG
U.S. Army Photo
by MG Douglas A. Sims
My name is Sims, and I am Division stronger as individuals their perspectives and reinforced Artillery and the Division Head-
a Big Red One Soldier, proudly and teams. To do this, we take leadership lessons on the field of quarters were outstanding in a
serving among the most capable, time each month to focus effort play. In April, a phenomenal panel recent Warfighter Exercise and
cohesive, and ready men and on resilience, building the team, of Americans who work with helped III Corps soundly defeat
women in the United States Army. and fostering better connections Veterans, the homeless, the food the “Donovians.” At the same
Saying (or writing) that never between Soldiers and Leaders, insecure, and COVID patients, time, the 1st Sustainment Brigade
gets old and reminds me of the Soldiers and Soldiers, and with brought their views of living lives has been on the move and scat-
honor of being in the 1st Infantry our Families. I firmly believe that of honor under the umbrella of tered around the globe, operating
Division and the legacy of which I when we are completely in the Virtue. Through the Big Red One in the Middle East and back at
am humbled to be a part. Serving game, we will shoot better, move Year of Honor, we are increasing home. As to the latter locale, the
alongside these amazing Ameri- better, and communicate better. individual character, commemo- Sustainment Brigade’s continual
cans makes me proud to put on People Always...All Else Follows. rating the extraordinary Medal of support to COVID operations has
the uniform each day. Supporting VICTORY WELL- Honor recipients, and celebrat- been nothing short of superb.
I am surprised how quickly NESS is our current initiative, ing the history of our Division. If you’ve seen significant mili-
the time has passed since my last the Big Red One Year of Honor. Incredible. tary support to civilian COVID
note to the Society. As I enter my This is a year-long effort to All the while, YOUR Division operations in the news, it’s a good
ninth month in command, it’s commemorate our 37 Medal of continues to provide operational bet the men and women of the
amazing how much the Division Honor recipients through monthly readiness and capability to the Sustainment Brigade were there
has accomplished and how ceremonies, leadership panels, country. On April 1, the 1st setting up and enabling opera-
impactful OUR people are to the and memorialization of streets on Combat Aviation Brigade assumed tions.
nation. the installation. Each month has responsibility for aviation Speaking of COVID support,
With a clear understanding a different theme: Valor, Victory operations in Europe. They’ll be I’m typing this note as Division
that we are a better fighting force or Virtue. Based on the theme, there for nine months, providing CSM Ray Harris and I are en route
when our people are operating we assemble a panel of men and U.S. Army Europe with critical to visit our Soldiers providing
at 100% and working in concert women, military and civilian, to support of operations across the vaccination support in Miami,
with one another, our number discuss living lives of honor from continent. In July, we will send Florida. There are currently two
one priority is OPERATION that perspective. We were fired up 1st Brigade and a portion of the Task Forces from 2nd Brigade
VICTORY WELLNESS. This is a to kick things off in February with Division Headquarters to join conducting vaccinations in Texas
comprehensive and enduring SSG (Ret) David Bellavia, our only them. 1st Brigade will assume and Florida. By the time our
operation to make every Soldier, living Medal of Honor awardee the rotational brigade mission in Soldiers return they will have
Civilian and Family member on who set the tone for the year. He Central Europe and the Division administered nearly 1 million
Fort Riley more resilient and was simply superb. In March, Forward will provide command shots to American citizens. We
better connected to one another. a Victory month, we had six and control of the USAREUR effort were able to visit the team in
VICTORY WELLNESS is making coaches from the NFL and NCAA in the same area of operations.
the men and women of the Division 1 programs who gave us Back at home, our Division Continued on next page...
6 Bridgehead Sentinel
Letter from the CG
...Continued from previous page. Keeping up with the 1st Division
Dallas and were blown away by home in the United States, the
the effort the 2nd Brigade Soldiers men and women of today’s 1st Headquarters (REDEPLOYED)
are providing and the response Infantry Division are creating A portion of the DHHB will join the 1st ABCT on a rotational
of the people they are supporting. history and enhancing the legacy mission in Central Europe in July.
Emotions have been high and you helped create. CSM Harris
appreciation immense, and it’s not and I are incredibly proud to wear 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team (REDEPLOYED)
possible to see the Big Red One the same patch and to lead these
The 1st Brigade will assume the rotational brigade mission in
on the shoulders of our men and Soldiers, NCOs, and officers and
Central Europe in July.
women without getting fired up. to be connected to each of you.
As was the case when YOU All the best from Fort Riley!
2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team (REDEPLOYED)
supported our country in Europe, Duty First! People Always...All Else
in Vietnam, in the Gulf War, in Follows! On October 10, 2020, soldiers from the 2nd ABCT, 1st ID
Iraq and Afghanistan, or back at returned home to Fort Riley after a very successful nine month
rotation to the Republic of Korea.
1st Combat Aviation Brigade (DEPLOYED)
1st Combat Aviation On April 1, the 1st Combat Aviation Brigade assumed respon-
sibility for aviation operations in Europe.
Brigade Assumes Authority 1st Division Sustainment Brigade (REDEPLOYED)
By CPT Billy Lacroix, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade The 1st Division Sustainment Brigade Special Troops Battalion
uncased their colors in Afghanistan in February 2019 in support
of Operations Resolute Support and Freedom's Sentinel. In
November 2019, the 1st ID Sustainment Brigade redeployed back
from Fort Riley.
Division Artillery (REDEPLOYED)
Since the 1st Infantry Division Artillery stood up in late 2015,
there has been an emphasis on the importance of partnership.
The Division Artillery continues to train alongside Division
elements as well as outside units.
After a nine-month rotation, brigade will now support Oper-
the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade ation Atlantic Resolve operations
has officially transferred authority throughout Eastern Europe, with
over to the 1st Combat Aviation most of the brigade's troops and
Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, on helicopters based in Germany,
April 1, 2021, at Storck Barracks. Latvia, Romania, and Poland.
The 1st Combat Aviation
Spring 2021 7
Fellow members, please use this membership form to approach businesses
in your community to join the Society as a corporate member!
SOCIETY OF THE 1ST INFANTRY DIVISION
P.O. Box 2307, Fort Riley, KS 66442
Phone: (785) 579-6761 Fax: (785) 209-3022
sfidkansas@gmail.com Web: www.1stID.org
BUSINESS APPLICATION/RENEWAL
DATE: ______________
TITLE: _______________ NAME: ____________________ _______ _________________________________ ________________
(RANK OR MR./MRS./MS.) (FIRST) (MI) (LAST) (SR./JR/II/III etc.)
NAME OF BUSINESS: ________________________________________________________________________
WEB PAGE ADDRESS: www.________________________________________WILL BE LINKED ON OUR WEBSITE
BUSINESS ADDRESS
________________________________________________________ _______________________________
(STREET) (SUITE#/APARTMENT#)
____________________________________________ ____________ _________________________-_______________
(CITY) (STATE) (ZIP CODE +4)
PHONE: (____ _____ ____) ____ ____ ____ - ____ ____ ____ _____ EMAIL: ______________________________
Benefits of a Business Membership are:
• Your business name, address &phone featured in the business supporter link on our webpage
• You will be listed as a supporter in the Bridgehead Sentinel magazine emailed 3 times a year and
available year-round on our webpage: www.1stid.org
• An e-subscription to the Bridgehead Sentinel
• Certificate of Membership suitable for framing
• A window decal signifying your support
Annual Membership Fee: $200
______________________________________________________________________________________
I would like to make an additional tax deductible contribution of $_________ Beyond my regular dues.
I would like to become a CENTURY CLUB member with a donation of $_______($100 minimum) to the BRO
Support Fund which is used to assist Active Duty Soldiers in need.
Century Club members will be recognized in the Bridgehead Sentinel throughout the year.
The Society of the 1st Infantry division is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
All donations are tax deductible as provided by law.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
ENCLOSED IS MY CHECK PAYABLE TO THE SOCIETY OF THE 1ST INFANTRY DIVISION
-OR-
PLEASE CHARGE MY (CIRCLE ONE) VISA MASTERCARD AMERICAN EXPRESS DISCOVER
CARD # ____________________________________________________ EXP DATE _____/_____ CVC ______
(MONTH) (YEAR) (Code on back of card)
SIGNATURE ___________________________________________________________
Return this form and your check. If paying by credit card you may fax this form to (785) 209-3022
Society News
BRO REUNION UPDATE: 2021 Reunion Canceled, 2022 in Fort Worth, TX
Mark your calendars for our best and biggest reunion of www.1stid.org where informa- in Reunion 2022. You can always
Reunion 2022 in Fort Worth, July Society members ever! We look tion will be shared regarding the call our office at 785-579-6761
20-24 at the Hilton Fort Worth. forward to meeting everyone in reunion and various other topics. or email sfidkansas@gmail.com if
Since we’ve been unable to gather Texas, where everything is bigger. In the meantime, we need your you have any questions or ideas.
since 2019, let’s make 2022 Visit our website periodically ideas on what should be included
Staff Sergeant Arnold “Ray” Lambert
November 26, 1920 – April 9, 2021
Ray Lambert passed on April 9 sionalism, volunteering his time to
at age 100. He enlisted in the U.S. inform current era soldiers of his
Army in 1940, and was assigned experiences and lessons learned.
to the 1st Infantry Division’s 16th In June 2019, Ray was
Infantry at Fort Benning, GA. A recognized by former President
combat medic, Ray participated in Donald Trump during a D-Day
three amphibious assault landings 75th anniversary ceremony at the
with the 16th Infantry (North American Cemetery overlooking
Africa, Sicily and Omaha Beach), Omaha Beach.
and was seriously wounded on Ray’s memoir, “Every Man
D-Day in Normandy. a Hero,” was published shortly
Ray was a Purple Heart and before the anniversary events in
Silver Star recipient; a Distin- France. Above: Ray Lambert speaking at the Memorial Service during the
guished Member of the 16th A native of Alabama, Ray 2019 Big Red One Reunion in Baltimore, Maryland.
Infantry; and a Life Member of the Lambert died at his home in
Society of the First Infantry Divi- Seven Lakes, North Carolina. He is
sion. He was an icon in the U.S. survived by his wife, Barbara, and
Army and the epitome of profes- daughter, Linda McInerney.
Spring 2021 9
Society News
Local Society of the 1st Infantry Division Chapters
The effort to form/startup out to us recently regarding enjoyed learning more about or call us (785-579-6761) at
local chapters continue. Currently starting up a chapter in the Los some of the chapters. Society Headquarters; or you can
there are eight (8) local chapters Angeles area. The Society is available to email sfidkansas@gmail.com
in the states of Indiana, Kansas, Hopefully, most chapters will assist in getting the chapters We salute our members that
New York, New Mexico, and be able to meet in person soon, going. We help by reaching out to have offered to get a chapter going
New Jersey, Ohio, Tennessee, but in the meantime, zoom, email our members and advising them in their community.
and Wisconsin. Thank you to and phone calls are possible that a chapter is being formed Chapters with POC informa-
Mike Holden from Chattanooga, solutions. in their area, along with point tion are listed below and on our
Tennessee for volunteering to get The BHS allocates space for of contact information. If you webpage: 1stid.org/chapters.
a chapter going in his community local chapters to share updates. are interested in getting a local
recently. A member has reached This past Fall 2020 readers chapter going in your area, email
Local Chapter Updates
East Central Indiana Chapter I am disappointed that we are Wisconsin Chapter. If you live in Society of the 1st Infantry
POC: James Allen not having our annual Reunion the Wisconsin area and want to Division South Eastern
Jallen5749@gmail.com this year here in my hometown learn more about the Chapter, Ohio Chapter
Phone: 765-969-7977 of Albuquerque. However, I do please reach out to Jeff. POC: Mike DeBolt
Update from James: Currently, understand the situation and, of 1infdivseo@gmail.com
I am the only member. Anyone course, your health and safety do Junction City Kansas Chapter Office Address: 1434 Linden Ave
in the East Indiana/West Ohio come first. If any members are POC: Phyllis Fitzgerald: Email: Zanesville, OH 43701
area who is interested in joining, in the New Mexico area, please sfid1919@gmail.com 740-252-1485
please email or call to learn more. contact me and perhaps we can 785-579-6761 The Ohio Chapter is planning
all still get together at American to have a golf outing on July 17th
The Albuquerque/ Legion Post 49 for dinner and Western New York, SSG David at Jaycee’s Golf Course, Zanesville,
Sante Fe Chapter some drinks. I will buy the first Bellavia Medal of Honor Ohio 43701. This golf outing is
POC: Manuel Alzaga round! Chapter, Society of the First supporting the “Save A Warrior”
manuelalzagajr@gmail.com In closing, I would like to say Infantry Division (SAW) program: saveawarrior.org.
505-270-4068 how humbled I am to represent POC: John B. Long
Update from Manuel: I hope the 1st Division and all the fine marinawoolcock54@gmail.com
that you, your family, and your members that we serve past and 716-877-6818
friends are all in good health present. Please be in touch
and in good spirits as we enter . New York/Fort Dix Branch of
the spring season. Speaking of Wisconsin Society of the the Society of the First Infan-
springtime, some of you may 1st Infantry Division Chapter try Division.
remember the high winds and POC: Jeff Anderson POC: Antonio Maria
tornados that we experienced at jeffoakvalleyfarm@gmail.com -- black_lions66@yahoo.com
Ft. Riley during the spring months. 608-381-3791 973-477-9360
Ahh, the memories of being blown Update from Jeff: He is happy
away on Custer Hill or of chasing to be assisting in getting a chapter
your headgear down a dirt road at going in his area. He has not
Camp Forsyth. received any inquiries about a
10 Bridgehead SentinelChattanooga, Tennessee
Society of the 1st Infantry
Division Chapter
POC: Mike Holden, C/2/16th
Infantry Rangers, Vietnam '68-'69. Pictured: The Order of
mikec216@comcast.net Saint Maurice Medallion
863-370-2519 was presented to SSG Holden
Update from Mike: As a (center) by LTC Benny R. (Ray)
new chapter in Chattanooga, Adkins, NIA LM 1007 (right) and
we currently are establishing MG William B. (Bill) Raines, U.S.
our group and recruiting new Army Retired (left).
members. We are working on
getting a Cobra pilot's Silver Star
upgraded to the Medal of Honor.
If you have BRO friends that
served and live in the Chattanooga
area please let them know that we
exist.
Executive Director's Recent Highlights
What a year we had! Please we raised $17,474. This will
allow me to share with you a few • We supported the 1st Infantry • Conducted community events become an annual event with
things that the Society of the First Division, units, Soldiers, and and made several videos for the match day held on Veterans
Infantry Division accomplished in family members throughout the MWR and ACS about the Society Day each year.
2020 and so far in 2021. year in many ways! Our support of The First Infantry Division.
included donations to Oper- The videos were then shared on • Currently we have 18 Corporate
• Member Database Scrub. ation Santa Claus, MWR and social media. Sponsors and 29 Business Part-
Letters were sent to over 9,000 Fort Riley 10-mile Run, Holiday ners. Their generous support of
members and we received back Decorating Contest decorations • I have been on our local radio, the Society assists us daily.
over 2,000 forms that have for Barracks, Unit Headquar- online news (jcpost) and in our
been checked/updated with ters, and housing event, 101 local newspapers talking about • New chapters of the Society
our database. We continue to Brigade Support Battalion the Society and our members. are being formed in communi-
receive database letter updates (BSB), Family Resource Group ties around the country. Each
from our members Holiday Tree (for dependent • Our membership numbers are chapter determines how to
. children) and cookie snacks rising thanks to many of our conduct meetings, in person or
• The Bridgehead Sentinel maga- for Soldiers. We also sponsored members sponsoring Soldiers. online.
zine (published 3 times yearly) New Spouse Tours and orien- Donations received so far have
went electronic and may now tation for our local community, allowed over 500 active-duty Look for some exciting new
be found on our website. and Commissary Gift Cards Soldiers to join the Society. things in 2021. And remember,
in the months of November please keep me posted with your
• We used social media to get and December for the Fort • Society was a part of the Armed current address, phone number
word out about the Society and Riley Chaplain to distribute to Forces Community Foundation and email address. We wish every-
our activities. For example, we Soldiers and Families. Match Day held on November one good health and safety.
used Facebook Live last August 11, both in person and online.
to announce our raffle drawing • Briefed Soldiers, units, and Thanks to the generosity of Phyllis Fitzgerald
and award the 2020 Soldier of their families on how the our members, community sfid1919@gmail.com
the Year and NCO of the Year. Society supports them. members, family, and friends 785-307-1472
Spring 2021 112021 Raffle Tickets
SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION
REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00 REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00
ENTIRE SHEET - $50 ENTIRE SHEET - $50
1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500 1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500
NAME: ____________________________________________ NAME: _____________________________________________
PHONE: ____________________________________________ PHONE: _____________________________________________
Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley. You need not be Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley.. You need not be
present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021. present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021.
Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442 Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442
SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION
REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00 REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00
ENTIRE SHEET - $50 ENTIRE SHEET - $50
1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500 1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500
NAME: ____________________________________________ NAME: _____________________________________________
PHONE: ____________________________________________ PHONE: _____________________________________________
Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley. You need not be Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley. You need not be
present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021. present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021.
Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442 Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442
SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION
REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00 REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00
ENTIRE SHEET - $50 ENTIRE SHEET - $50
1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500 1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500
NAME: ____________________________________________ NAME: _____________________________________________
PHONE: ____________________________________________ PHONE: _____________________________________________
Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley. You need not be Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley. You need not be
present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021. present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021.
Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442 Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442
SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION
REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00 REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00
ENTIRE SHEET - $50 ENTIRE SHEET - $50
1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500 1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500
NAME: ____________________________________________ NAME: _____________________________________________
PHONE: ____________________________________________ PHONE: _____________________________________________
Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley. You need not be Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley. You need not be
present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021. present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021.
Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442 Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442
SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION
SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION
REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00
REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00
ENTIRE SHEET - $50
ENTIRE SHEET - $50
1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500
1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500
NAME: ____________________________________________
NAME: ____________________________________________
PHONE: ____________________________________________ PHONE: ____________________________________________
Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley. You need not be Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley. You need not be
present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021. present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021.
Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442 Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442
SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION SOCIETY of the FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION
REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00 REUNION 2021 RAFFLE -- DONATION $5.00
ENTIRE SHEET - $50 ENTIRE SHEET - $50
1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500 1st Prize $2,000 2nd Prize $1,000 3rd Prize $500
NAME: ____________________________________________ NAME: _____________________________________________
PHONE: ____________________________________________ PHONE: _____________________________________________
Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley. You need not be Winning tickets will be drawn live virtually from Fort Riley. You need not be
present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021. present to win. All entries must be received in KS office no later than 10 AM July 31, 2021.
Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442 Mail payment and raffle tickets to: Society of the First Infantry Division P.O. Box 2307 Fort Riley KS 66442A Century of Service
Gene Ramey: World War II
and Korean War Veteran
By Gene Ramey
I was born February 11, 1928 me an instructor of candidates;
in Olympia, WA. When approxi- my first group of students I had to
mately 6 months old my mother instruct was the very same class
moved her little family (consisting from which I had been released.
of herself, my oldest brother, I did not become an officer in
Buford (then 4 years old) my next the army but was good enough to
older brother, Hubert (3 years instruct future officers! Unusual
old) and finally me to Redwood circumstance but I learned to live
Falls, MN. with it. My tenure as an instruc-
After I enlisted in the Army tor began the same time the
Above: PFC Allen Gary from Phoenix City, AL, a member of the 1st I was eventually sent to Europe Korean War began in June 1950.
Battalion, 2nd Infantry. The unit was patrolling an area near the where I was with the 1st Medical I remained at Ft Riley for 2 years
Cambodian border (1968). Battalion of the 1st Infantry with the OCS cadre preparing offi-
Division located, at the time, in cers (2d Lt's) who were almost
Regensburg, Germany. While in always sent to Korea as platoon
The Black Scarf Battalion Germany (Army of Occupation) I
met and married a German girl,
Ingeborg Elfrieda Michael, and
leaders.
In 1952 I was reassigned from
OCS to Korea as a replacement
brought her and her young son, for the 160th Infantry Regiment
Written by a Staff Sergeant of B Company, Ulrich, back to America. She was of the 40th Infantry Division. I
1st Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment in 1967. a war bride. We had one child, spent 9 months in Korea and
Diane, born April 1, 1949. This having gained sufficient points to
marriage lasted 3 years and ended qualify for transfer, I opted to go
There's a Black Scarf Battalion in Vietnam in divorce in 1951. to Japan.
In this Black Scarf Battalion, every man is a man. I stayed in the army and in After the Army, I concen-
Around their necks the black scarf they wear, 1949 or early 1950 I applied trated on my profession as a bill
a symbol of strength of those who care. for, and was accepted, to Officer collection agent and became well
Fathers would be proud of this generation. Candidate School (0CS) at Ft known in Oakland for integrity
For they are a product of a great land and nation. Riley, KS. The course was 24 and knowledge of collection
They have fought and they have won, weeks. After 12 weeks I was law. I retired from the collection
And they will stay until the battle is done. released from the candidate class industry in 1993 and have lived in
Their leaders are proud of the impossible task. and reassigned as a Staff Sergeant my same home since 1959.
None have to be told, none have to be asked. to the same school I had attended. My story has more to tell but I
No one can see the misery they bear, This was a blow to my pride and haven't finished living it yet!
for it’s all hidden beneath the scarves they wear. I was somewhat perplexed as the
They surely have answered freedom's call. assignment to the school made
For there are many Black Scarves a-hanging from the wall.
Some are tattered, some are torn, willed to sons yet unborn.
They want no fame, no fanfare or glory.
Their mission is as old as the infantry story.
Perhaps someday history will record
and the Black Scarf Battalion shall have its reward.
Spring 2021 13SEPT
5-16
in partnership with Academic Travel Abroad 2021 Sign up today at FDMUSEUM.ORG
From Normandy to the Bulge:
The First Division’s Race Across Europe
Visit the places where the 1st Infantry Division made history, leading
the way to Allied success in WWII. Experience the culture of Western
Europe through cuisine, architecture and local customs.
1st Infantry Division Monument, Omaha Beach
Aachen, Germany’s Cathedral “Into the Jaws of Death” The 16th Infantry Regiment lands on Omaha Beach American Cemetery, Normandy
For an itinerary, travel details and pricing, or to reserve your place, please visit Please note that the First Division Museum offers this travel
FDMuseum.org/footsteps or call Academic Travel Abroad at 1-877-298-9677. experience as a way to engage our audience and does not
benefit financially from this trip.
@fdmuseum | #FDMuseumS:7.875"
MADE OF
NONSTOP
DEDICATION
SINCE
1922
Supporting veterans,
and all that you do, for
S:10.375"
nearly a century.
USAA was founded in 1922 to insure
members of the military when no one
else would. But we didn’t stop there.
We’ve lifted up the military community in
all we do. They inspired us to invent the first
mobile deposit technology to help meet their
unique needs. They are the reason we have
created programs to strengthen military
families and help veterans adapt to life after
service. The history of our commitment runs
deep, and we proudly continue it today.
Discover how USAA can support you at
USAA.COM/SFA or call 855-898-1732.
USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its affiliates. Use of the term “member” or “membership” refers to membership in USAA Membership Services and does not convey any legal or ownership
rights in USAA. Restrictions apply and are subject to change. To join USAA, separated military personnel must have received a discharge type of “Honorable.” Eligible former dependents of USAA members may
join USAA. No Department of Defense or government agency endorsement. Special Forces Association receives financial support from USAA for this sponsorship.
© 2021 USAA. 270525-0820-SFASOCIETY NEWS
Membership Sponsorship Program
Thanks to our membership, generosity. I encourage everyone
2020 was a great year for our to share your Big Red One Story
sponsorship program. We were and the Story of the Society of the
able to provide paid memberships 1st Infantry Division with others
to many Active-Duty Soldiers and invite them to join.
thanks to your generous contri- Many thanks to the members
butions. listed below.
It really does take all of us
to have a successful Society and Tom Copeland
we thank our members for such Manual Soto
Society Support Fort Riley to Honor Big Red One
to Soldiers and Medal of Honor Recipients
Families First Infantry Division
Commander, MG D.A. Sims, has
February with SSG (ret) Bellavia,
the only living Medal of Honor
The Society of the First announced a program to honor awardee, visiting Fort Riley to
Infantry Division makes donations 1st Infantry Division Medal of begin the year-long commem-
every holiday season for Active- Honor recipients. oration. Throughout the year,
Duty Soldiers and their families. The program involves monthly ceremonies will include speakers
In 2020, thanks to our members’ celebrations of the 37 BRO Medal from USMA, USNA, and USAFA
generosity, the Society donated 52 of Honor awardees. Panels will football coaches who will partici-
($50.00) Commissary gift cards discuss living lives of honor, pate in a panel.
to the 1st Infantry Division and including men and women who Also during 2021, Fort Riley
Fort Riley Chaplains. They, in have displayed great valor in officials will rename 37 streets
turn, distributed the cards to the combat, those who have helped on Fort Riley in honor of our
Soldiers and families. battle homelessness and food MoH awardees. At each month's
insecurity, and family members commemoration we will rename
who demonstrate honor in their the streets for the recipients of
daily lives. that particular month. By the end
In a separate but related of 2021, all 37 will be honored
initiative, the BRO kicked off a with newly designed MoH signs.
Big Red One Year of Honor on 16
Spring 2021 17MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION / RENEWAL Effective For 2021
SOCIETY OF THE FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION
P.O. Box 2307
Fort Riley, KS 66442
Phone: 785-579-6761 FAX: 785-209-3022 www.1stid.org
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION or RENEWAL
DATE: ______________
TITLE: ____ NAME: _____________________________________
First MI Last Suffix Jr., II, Etc.
Please check if you do not want your contact information listed in the “Members Only” online directory in our website.
COMPLETE TO APPLY FOR MEMBERSHIP OR TO UPDATE OUR RECORDS:
MAILING ADDRESS (ADDRESS WHERE YOU WANT YOUR MEMBERSHIP MATERIAL MAILED TO.
_______ ___________________________________________ ____________________
Street City State Zip
PHONE: Cell: _____ EMAIL:___________________________
(Will not be released for any purpose, including the website.)
YOUR SERVICE WITH THE BIG RED ONE (Please check all that apply.)
WW II VIETNAM COLD WAR PEACETIME GULF WAR BALKANS IRAQ AFGHAN
UNITSERVED IN OR PRESENT UNIT: _ ____ ________ ___ ______
(COMPANY) (BATTALION/REGIMENT) (BRIGADE)
SELECT A MEMBERSHIP TYPE (please check one)
ALL MEMBERSHIP TYPES INCLUDE A SUBSCRIPTION TO THE BRIDGEHEAD SENTINEL
ACTIVE DUTY ONLY:
VETERANS (CURRENTLY SERVING
. WITH THE BRO) LIFE – VETERANS:
REGULAR $35 per year ANNUAL UNDER 40 $400
EXECUTIVE $65 per year E-1 TO E-7 $10 40 – 49 $350
E-8 TO O4 $15 50 – 59 $300
O5 TO O8 $20 60 – 69 $250
ASSOCIATES (Family and Friends of the BRO)
3 YEAR 70 – 79 $200
REGULAR $35 per year E-1 TO E-7 $25 80 + $100
EXECUTIVE $65 per year E-8 TO O4 $40
__BUSINESS $200 per year O5 TO O8 $50
LIFETIME
E-1 TO E-7 $75 WIDOWS/WIDOWERS OF BIG
E-8 TO O4 $200 RED ONE VETERANS: (FREE)
O5 TO O8 $250
I would like to make an additional tax-deductible contribution of $____________, to be used for
Where it is most needed _______
the Society’s General Fund _______or
the BRO Support Fund _______that supports active-duty soldiers and their families.
(NOTE: Donations of $100 or more will be recognized as Century Club members in the Bridgehead Sentinel.)
RANK (required):________________
ENCLOSED IS MY CHECK PAYABLE TO THE SOCIETY OF THE FIRST INFANTRY DIVISION
- or -
SupportCHARGE
PLEASE Fund. MY (CIRCLE ONE): VISA MASTERCARD AMERICAN EXPRESS DISCOVER
(CENTURY CLUB members will be recognized in the Bridgehead Sentinel throughout the year)
.
CARD #:_____________________________________________ EXP DATE: ____ /____ CVC: ___________
(month) (year) (code on back of card)
SIGNATURE: _____________________________________________ (CVC CODE & SIGNATURE REQUIRED)
Return this form and your check. If paying by credit card, you may fax this form to (785) 209-3022.
18 * * * * THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! * * * * Bridgehead SentinelSOCIETY NEWS
Update: First Division Monument in Washington, DC
The Society has taken another addition of a new path to provide all the reviews/approvals are in continues efforts to add the 631
step towards redesign and the a handicapped accessible route place, and prior to issuance of names of BRO soldiers lost in
addition of names and units of to the memorial. The additional construction permits, the Society post-911 operations (Afghanistan:
BRO soldiers lost in Iraq and pathway would be constructed by must certify that all construction 192; Iraq: 439), and provide
Afghanistan. NPS. funds as well as 10% maintenance space for names from future
The Senate and the House of 2) New materials must match fee are in the bank. conflicts. Construction estimates
Representatives have approved the materials of the existing memo- While no milestones exist for the need for $400,000 to make
“First Act” -- MODIFICATION TO rial, to the extent possible. NPS final approval, the Society the necessary modifications. As of
FIRST DIVISION MONUMENT -- 3) Construction will likely is ready to move forward with 28 February 2021, $248,317 is in
and the President has signed into require the replacement of the requests for bids, once NPS the construction fund. We appre-
law as a part of the 2021 Defense hedge row. If so, this would approves the project. ciate your continued donations.
Budget. Key points: need to be done as a part of In summary, the Society
(a) The Society of the First the proposed
Infantry Division may make construction
modifications to the First Division project.
Monument located on Federal 4) Important
land in President's Park in the to match the text/
District of Columbia to honor the font of the old
dead of the 1st Infantry Division plaques, the patina
in: on the bronze, and
• Operation Desert Storm; the phrasing of the
• Operation Iraqi Freedom way the names are
and New Dawn; and listed.
• Operation Enduring 5) NPS intends
Freedom. routine cleaning
• Modifications to the First and maintenance
Division Monument may of the existing
include construction of memorial this year.
additional plaques and 6) The next
stone plinths on which to step will be
put plaques. a submission
• Federal funds may not be through NPS prior
used for modifications of to an inter-agency
the First Division Monument. work session. At
this session, the
The next step in the process is Society will present
to obtain approval of the design the proposed
from the National Park Service project.
(NPS). Society representatives 7) The process
met with NPS officials, 2 February will require a
2021. Key take-aways from that finding under NEPA
meeting: of no significant
1) Secret Service has closed impacts. NPS will
access to the roadway and process this and
walkway to the north of the anticipates no diffi-
memorial. It is expected to remain culties with NEPA.
closed. NPS noted that there 8) NPS
has been discussion about the reminded that after
Spring 2021 19DESERT STORM
Operation Desert Storm: A Retrospective
The following article appeared 30 years ago in the Spring 1991 Edition of the Bridgehead Sentinel. At the time, the article
was breaking news reporting the official timeline of events after the BRO's success during the operation.
AUGUST 1990 business with quiet confidence.
You can see it in their eyes and
a child supervision facility. The
facility, equipped with cribs and
JANUARY 1991
Iraq invades Kuwait. President hear it in their voices - the belief a playroom, "baby sits" children Three flights in mid-Janu-
Bush announces Operation Desert that they're trained and ready." while the parents are handling ary completed the Division's
Shield. In anticipation of being Soldiers and their families the paperwork involved in the deployment to Saudi Arabia. Total
called for duty in Saudi Arabia Big were invited to enjoy Thanksgiving deployment. division strength is approximately
Red One staff begins planning for dinner in the Mess Halls. Four Secure storage facilities are 12,000. Operation Desert Shield
deployment. Vehicles' camouflage hundred and eighty army cooks provided for automobiles belong- becomes Operation Desert Storm
is changed from European color prepared 5,300 pounds of turkey, ing Division soldiers deployed to as U.S. and allied planes begin
scheme to Desert Sand. 1,200 pounds of baron of beef. Saudi Arabia. massive bombing raids on Iraq.
In an eight day period 600 pounds of ham plus shrimp, The first Big Red One soldier to
contract painters repainted 843 cornish hen, duck--a total of DECEMBER 1990 die on Operation Desert Storm
vehicles - only a small portion of 15,000 pounds to feed the troops was PFC Rueben G. Kirk III, 19, of
and their families. The New York Times, on
the Division's equipment. Desert Dunlow, WV. Kirk was killed when
Non-divisional units left Fort December 5, prints a photograph
camouflage battle uniforms are the High Mobility Multipurpose
Riley for Saudi Arabia bringing of 1st Division troops landing in
ordered. Wheeled Vehicle he was driving
the total non-divisional soldiers Saudi Arabia. By year's end about
was hit by a van driven by a Saudi
NOVEMBER 1990 leaving Fort Riley to 800. Other 6,000 Big Red One soldiers are
in Saudi Arabia. Troops arrived
Arabian civilian on January 29.
reserve units arrive at Fort Riley Kirk was with Battery D, 25th Field
First Division is ordered to for training before shipping to the by air using a total of 52 aircraft.
Artillery. On January 28 the Big
prepare to deploy to Saudi Arabia. Middle East. Deployment used huge C-5 and
Red One used the Army Tactical
Some members of the Division Division units coordinate with C-141 military aircraft was well
Missile System for the first time.
learn of their coming deploy- Union Pacific Railroad to ship as civilian equipment. On Friday,
The Missile, which has a range of
ment while watching CNN on TV. Division equipment to the Port December 21, the colors of the
60 miles, scatters 950 bomblets
Senator Bob Dole of Kansas and of Embarkation. It will take an Big Red One were cased and
over an area larger than a football
Army Chief of Staff Carl Vuono visit estimated 1400 freight cars to replaced by those of the U.S. Army
field. The 13 foot long, 2 foot in
Division at Fort Riley. Dole said, deploy the Division. The 701st Garrison (USAG) signifying the
diameter Missile is fired from a
"The Big Red One has a proud Support Battalion was the first to departure of the Division from
self-propelled tracked "weapons
history. They have been there first load followed by the 1st Military Fort Riley and U.S. Army Garri-
platform". The launcher can
and they have been there when Police Company and the 121st son's responsibility for the post.
also fire Multiple Launch Rocket
the going gets tough. The troops Signal Battalion. The Irwin Army Community
Systems missiles.
are ready to go, morale is high. The trip to Houston, Texas, Hospital at Fort Riley, working
We are sending our best." General
Vuono commented, "I've talked
takes about 48 hours. At Houston shorthanded because of personnel
being deployed to Saudi Arabia,
FEBRUARY 25
the equipment was loaded on
to a lot of soldiers, sergeants ships for the three-week voyage to resumes normal operations as The Big Red One spearheads
and officers throughout the time Saudi Arabia. replacement doctors are assigned. the VII Corps break-through into
I've been here, [Fort Riley] and Volunteers at the Fort Riley Iraq.
what's impressed me most is their Family Assistance Center open
attitude. They're going about their Bridgehead Sentinel, Collection:The Bridgehead Sentinel
RRMRC Digital Archives
20 Bridgehead SentinelVIETNAM
KLIK Radio in Vietnam
By Tim Abney
Serving the men of the 1st I had been hanging around
Infantry Division’s Iron Brigade, at 2 local radio stations in San
this is KLIK 1330 on your AM dial. Bernardino, CA, KFXM and KMEN
Stand by for 5 minutes of news and had been given some interest-
from AFVN and come on back for ing opportunities there. I walked
more of your favorite music… into the station and asked if they
The time is XX:00 AM (or PM).” were still looking for someone
I would throw the switch that with a little broadcast experience.
would feed AFVN’s audio to our They said they were.
airwaves and there would be three I told them I had as “little as
loud beeps followed by a slightly anyone” and they promptly took
louder and higher pitched beep… me into their studio and told me
“This is AFVN News compiled to watch the guy that was on the
from major networks, news air.
services and military sources.” After about 20 minutes Lon
How many times did I do that? asked me if I thought I could run Above: We were also alone there a lot and being only about 100
I can't even begin to guess. the equipment… “Piece of cake” yards from the village wire which was compromised a few times
I was honored to be a broad- was my reply. while I was there. As a result we always had loaded weapons in the
caster at KLIK from November of “OK, sit down and take over.” studio. Note the loaded M-14 and M-16 in the far corner. The AFVN
1967 until July of 1968. Everyday I had been in the studio for guys were shocked by this. Most of them never even saw a weapon.
during that time I was one the air 20 minutes and I was on the air.
between 3 and 9 hours per day. It was a few minutes later that I from Noon-3 PM M-F. Both of signal.
KLIK had an 18 hour broadcast realized I was alone. I didn’t see those guys were fantastic at enter- Two times during my 6-9 PM
day and for most of the time I another soul there for almost 2 taining the troops and got loads of shift we had 122mm rockets land
was on the air there I handled the hours when Lon, Phil Dubs and requests. within 50 feet of the front door of
6-9 AM and 6-9 PM shifts. Then Ken Klepeis (who I had taken Another show was on 6-9 PM the station. After the 2nd I went
came the 1968 TET Offensive. over from) walked in and told me on Sunday and Wednesday nights on the air after the needle had
Midnight-3:00 AM was added to they had been drinking beer at a when the American Red Cross bounced completely off of the
my schedule as KLIK became a nearby EM Club and listening to Volunteers came in and did a record that was playing and said
24/7 operation. KLIK and had decided that I was request and dedication show that “If you don’t like what I’m playing
In late October of 1967 I “their boy.” was our most popular feature and just call in a request.” A little
was a couple of days back on I’ll have our OIC have you frequently went over its allotted comic relief as my nerves tried to
the Lai Khe base camp from the TDY’d to KLIK and this will be time. It seems that American settle back down.
boonies and I was happy to be your job. I didn’t really think it women were much more popular A couple of months after I left
listening to KLIK because I liked would happen but in just a few than any of the rest of us… I Vietnam and the US Army, one
the music they played much better days my platoon leader told me I wonder why? of those rockets found it’s mark
than AFVN plus they had a more now belonged to 3rd Bde HQ. One thing we didn’t have were and hit the roof directly above
home town sound due to their KLIK was block programmed, the restrictions that were put on the studio. It sent the DJ on the
jingles which were professionally meaning we had 3 hour segments AFVN as far as music they weren’t air, who survived, home with his
recorded for them. of Top 40, Soul, Country and allowed to play. We played it all, golden ticket. I heard later that
Lon Carruth was on the 3-6 Western, Jazz. Easy Listening. including War Protest songs and he said the 1 inch thick plywood
PM air shift and between records Show Tunes, Folk Music and drug related songs. There have that the console counter was built
had said that “One of our guys even Classical Music on Sunday been those who doubted that, from saved his “manhood.”
is heading home and we need a mornings. We also had Volun- but I can prove it because I have I’ve been told they had the FM
replacement. We’re looking for teer DJs who handled some of airchecks. back on the air in a few hours
someone with a little broadcast these shows. There was Paige We added an FM signal in and the AM a couple of days later
experience so if you think you Pinkette who did the 3-6 PM Soul May of 1968 provided a much proving that 1st Division soldiers
might fill the bill stop over and show M-F and Jim McDade who improved sound with 125 Watts always put “Duty First.”
see us at brigade HQ.” handled “The Country Corner on FM to augment our 50 watt AM
Spring 2021 21You can also read
