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"A MAN IS NOT DEAD UNTIL HE IS FORGOTTEN"

-- S --




JAMES SALADIN
October 14, 1947 - July 11, 2016

James Saladin James Saladin

Specialist Four James Saladin served in the 281st 1n 1969-1970 as a Door Gunner. James entered the army on May 2, 1969 and was discharged April 3, 1971. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal and Army Commendation Medal. Jim shall be remembered by the intruder family.
His obituary follows:

“James Saladin, 68, of Buckner, MO passed away July 11, 2016. A graveside service was held at Missouri State Veterans Cemetery, Higginsville, MO. James was born October 14, 1947 in St. James, MO to Clyde and Hazel (Smith) Saladin. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army, having served during the Vietnam War. James is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Brenda Saladin; children, Angela Cox and Trevor Mann; and his loving grandchildren. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com.”




HENRY "JAY" SALZMAN
February 6, 1950 - March 5, 2017

Henry Jay Salzman

Jay Salzman served in the 281st AHC as a Wolf Pack Door Gunner from 4-68 until 7-69. Jay applied his mechanical training and skills to his position and performed his duties in an outstanding manner. He shall be remembered by the Intruder family. His condensed obituary follows.

Henry Jay Salzman was born in Lake City Iowa on February 6, 1950 to Henry and Helen Salzman, nee Martinson. His early school years were in Des Moines, IA. In school he earned an Iowa 1st Class Engineers License. Jay had a strong military background and he entered the Army where he served a tour in Germany, followed by two tours in Vietnam. First with the American Division, then with the Wolf Pack of the 281st Assault Helicopter Company.
Jay is survived by his spouse Carrie Lyn Morey, several children and grandchildren. He was laid to rest at Loveland Burial Park, Loveland, Colorado.

Loveland Reporter-Herald and findagrave 177126362




LARRY R SALZMAN
May 2, 1940 - March 4, 2009

Larry Salzman
Wolf Pack 34, 9/68 - 09/69

Larry R. Salzman, 68, died at 6:52 P.M., Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at his residence in Girard, KS. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2001.

CW3 (retired) Larry R. Salzman, "Wolf Pack 34" was presented with his custom framed blood chit from his first tour of duty in Vietnam, September 1968- September 1969, following his request Bryan Salzman, his son, framed it for him. Larry received it as a surprise with a hat pin, magnets and patches received from the 281st AHC at a Vietnam Veterans Party hosted by the Isadore Hoehn VFW Post 7397, Lenexa, held Oct. 16, 2004.  The event was a great experience for the entire family. The family is grateful to the 281st and everyone involved not only for making this happen, but also for their service to our country.

the blood chit
CW3 (retired) Larry Salzman and wife Wilma Salzman
viewing the framed blood chit for the first time at the event.

blood chit framed
Pictured above is the custom designed frame for CW3 (retired) Larry Salzman "WolfPack 34".

The framed blood chit includes an engraved piece and patches from the Intruders and Wolf Pack received from the 281st AHC. The engraved piece reads:

INTRUDERS
281ST ASSAULT HELICOPTER COMPANY
WOLF PACK "DEATH ON CALL"
THIS BLOOD CHIT WAS CARRIED BY
U.S. ARMY PILOT CW3 LARRY R. SALZMAN
WHILE FLYING MISSIONS IN "HUEY" CHARLIE MODEL GUNSHIPS
IN SUPPORT OF THE 5TH SPECIAL OPERATIONS GROUP 
NHA TRANG, VIETNAM
SEPTEMBER 1968 - SEPTEMBER 1969


From: wleebrewer@aol.com
Sent: Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Subject: HQ_281AHC Larry Salzman - Obit

Larry Salzman was my co-pilot the day I was shot on March 1969. I knew of his passing but didn't think at the time to let the 281st know. I attempted to help him get the purple heart as he did receive some shrapnel from the friction knob from my cyclic when the armor piercing round burst it and proceeded through my leg and a rib in the main rotor. The request was denied however as insufficient data.

Larry was very active in and a past president of the VFW Post #7479 of Girard Kansas. He was born on May 2, 1940 and passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2009. Larry was a resident of Girard, Kansas at the time of his passing. He attended schools in Iowa.

He enlisted in the US Army and served from October 14, 1957 until retiring as Chief Warrant Officer on October 31, 1977. He served in Korea in 1958 and 1959 and served two tours of duty in Vietnam as a combat helicopter pilot. He received numerous citations and honors including the Bronze Star, several air medalsand the Army Commendation Medal. He served in the military police and on border patrols.

Lee Brewer
Wolf Pack 32 (1968-69)


findagrave 34490246



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VIRGLE LEE "BUDDY" SAMPLES
August 27 - December 28, 2022

buddy Samples
Maintenance Test Pilot

Virgle had been in the Army several years when he came to us as a new aviator; he stepped in to the aircraft maintenance operation almost immediately and became a valuable member of the 281st team.

from the obituary:
Virgle Lee Samples, Sr., AKA "Bud" or "Buddy" 84, of Rowlett TX went to be with the lord on Wednesday the 28th day of December 2022. He was born on the 27th day of August 1938, to Albert and Ruby Lee Samples. Virgle married Dianna Kay McCallum in 1959 and was devoted to her until her death in 2011. During their marriage they had 3 children, Virgle Lee, Helena Olivia, and Tina Louise. After Kay's death he married Karoll Tipton and gained a daughter, Sherri and a son, Fred.

Virgle was also devoted to this country. He served in the Army for 20 years. Working his way up from the enlisted ranks to become an officer and then a helicopter pilot. He did 2 tours in Vietnam. His last duty was over the Sky Crane company at Ft. Eustice, VA. He did work for the civil service after Desert Storm.

Virgle was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He is survived by his wife Karoll Tipton Samples, daughters, Tina and husband, Bill Van Dyke, Sherri and husband, Craig Hook, and son, Fred, and wife Traci Tipton, brother J.A. and wife, Mabel Samples and sister-in-law Drema Samples. And many friends he considered family. Virgle had 14 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Kay, son Virgle, daughter Olivia, sister, Helen Peacock, brothers, Joe and Kenneth Samples.

His brother J.A. Samples officiated his service.

grave

_____________________________________

The webmaster recalls flying a huey slick in a flight of three or four to exchange aircraft with the Delta detachment at an FOB west of Danang. We had to pass the Marine Corps air station at Chu Lai. We were listening on the tower frequency when we heard some fighter pilot receive permission to "boom the tower"; meaning to make a low altitude high speed pass down the runway.

Did I say Buddy was flight lead? Next thing on the radio Buddy requests permission to "boom the tower"! Permission granted, we altered course to line up down the runway and proceeded across the airfield at a preposterous 100 knots or so. Passing adjacent to the tower, Buddy yelled "BOOM" on the radio.

Some of the memories we have.

williamsfuneral.com/obituary/virgle-samples
findagrave 248651449




RUDOLF JURGEN "Rudy" SANGL
October 24, 1948 - December 6, 2021

Rudy Sangle
Pilot

Rudy Sangl served as a helicopter pilot in the 281st. His published obituary follows:

Mr. Rudolf J. Sangl, age 73, passed away in the early hours of December 6, 2021, after a brief illness. Rudy was born in Hof, West Germany October 24, 1948 to Josef and Gisela (Altmann) Sangl. Together with his sister, Barbara, the family immigrated to the United States, settling in Cincinnati, Ohio. Rudy attended Walnut Hills High School, and then the University of Cincinnati. Rudy quit college during the Vietnam war, and enlisted in the U.S. Army to become a helicopter pilot. Through numerous search and rescue missions, Rudy was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. He would eventually reach the rank of Chief Warrant Officer Four (CW4). Upon returning to the University of Cincinnati, he earned a Masters in Business Administration (MBA). He worked for Steak and Ale in their Executive managerial program. He went on to work for musical instrument companies, before deciding to work towards a CPA by taking courses at the University of Houston. In 1982, he was called to active duty for training at Fort Hood, Texas. It was there that he met, and ultimately married his wife of over 37 years, LTC (R) Joan (Pendergast) Sangl, US Army. They traveled all about, while Rudy climbed the ranks of government service. After several years of semi-retirement and consulting, Rudy and Joan found DeFuniak Springs, Florida, and found a community of wonderful people. Rudy served as President of Forward DeFuniak, and on the City Planning Board.

In addition to his wife, Rudy leaves behind his sister, Barbara Wallace, and her husband Danny; their daughter, Jennifer, her husband Andrew, and their children: Tyler, Jacob, Tianna, and Gracie; nephew, Jimmy (and his family); brothers and sisters-in-law: Carol (and Lance and their family), Edward/Ned (and Laura and their family), John (and Sophia and their family), Lee (and her family), Michael (and Maria and their family), Ann (and Bruce and their family), Mark (and Heather and their family), and Elizabeth (and her love). He is also survived by his father and mother-in-law, Edward and Katherine.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and his mother-in-law Carole.

In lieu of flowers, please consider random acts of kindness, and prayers for our troops.
A time of visitation will be held in the chapel of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home Thursday, December 9, 2021 from 1 until 2 p.m. Funeral services will be in the chapel of the funeral home beginning at 2 p.m., with Bishop Steven Miller of Saint Agathas Episcopal Church officiating. A celebration of life will be held at Cafe NOLA from 5 until 7 p.m.




DAREL L SCOTT
September 9, 1950 - February 3, 1989

SSAN Issued: California
Interred in Elsinore Valley Cemetery, Lake Elsinore, California

findagrave 16595388 - The grave marker is defaced and illegible.




DOUG SCOTT
Died after his tour on July 15, 1990

Perished in California in a motor vehicle accident.




JACK WILLIAM SERIG, Sr.
August 2, 1928 - October 16, 2014

Jack Serig

Jack served in the 281s Assault Helicopter Company as the Platoon Leader of the 1st Platoon during 1966 / 67. He left the 281st to join the staff of the 10th Aviation Battalion to serve as the Aviation Safety officer for the remainder of his tour. Jack served an earlier tour (1962) in Vietnam flying Otter aircraft. Jack retired as a LT. COL. after serving in several high level positions. Lt. Col. Serig was laid to rest in the South Florida National Military Cemetery. Notification from his son Art Follows:

Dear, Military friends of Jack and Lou Serig. I think it's important that you know that Dad's passing was peaceful. On Thursday evening, 10/16/14, at 21:10 hours, Jack passed away with my Brother Chuck at his bedside and his wife Lou. Last night my brother left mom and dad for half an hour to go over to the Perpetual Adoration Chapel at St. Louis Church. There, he prayed and asked God for a peaceful passing. On the way out, his girlfriend asked him to take some holy water back to Dad. He returned to the house, because he felt the time was near and he didn't want my MOM and DAD to be alone.

Chuck sat next to DAD, his eyes were open and his breathing was shallow. He held his hand as he sat next to him. I told him that I loved him and he replied, "I love you too". With a tissue he softly rubbed his arms and hands with holy water, made the sign of the cross with it on his forehead and placed the damp tissue in his right hand. He told him to rest and smiled at him, he seemed to like that and stared back with a very peaceful gaze. Silently, he began to pray and watched over him, still holding his hand, JACK closed his eyes and passed. It was quiet, without struggle, willing. Dad was ready.

Circumstances didn't allow us all to be there at the moment of his passing but his "I love you" was for all of us. My brother was so honored that he was able to be there for all of us and we are all comforted in knowing that he was not alone. The entire family had spent the last few weeks at his bedside in the hospital and at home. He was very proud of this large extended family and of his military family!

As you all know we are a very close family as is your Military Family!

Thank all of you for the tremendous love and support that you have shown my MOM and DAD especially over the last few weeks and for the many years he served so honorably with you protecting our country and way of life. All of your efforts, big and small as they may be, are just another chapter in what is surely a continuance of his legacy. God Bless you all and those other Warriors that have gone before him. Captain Art Serig,
305.542.3661




FREDERICK PAUL SHANHART
March 12, 1946 - June 24, 1992

Fred Shanhart

Fred died in 1992 in Houston, Texas of medical complications.
He was a graduate of class 67-21 at Ft. Rucker, AL.  He served with the 281st AHC in 1968 and 1969.
He was interred in a family plot in Webster Union Cemetery, Webster, New York.

Fred at his later employment from John Campbell, who provided these photos:
"I knew Fred from 1982 to 1987 when he was flying Bell 206 Jet Rangers for Armadillo Airways in Houston TX. It was an air taxi service that flew people from the west side of Houston to Intercontinental airport on the north side of Houston. I worked there as their porter cleaning the aircraft and boarding passengers. I went to look him up the other day and noticed he had passed away and there were no photos of him. I went through my photo album and found these. I thought it would be respectful to submit them. That is me on the right. At this time he was flying mail. He was a super nice guy and a good friend. I will miss him."

Fred with crew Fred with crew Fred with crew

Other sources give 3/12/46 to 2/24/92, findagrave (65767453) and grave photo say June 24, 1992.




RICHARD D SHARP
April 10, 1948 - August 25, 2000

R Sharp

Richard was born 10 Apr 1948 and passed away in Michigan on 25 August 2000.
He is interred at Grand Lawn Cemetery, Detroit, Michigan.
He shall be remembered by the Intruder family



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PATRICK M SHELEY
1929 - November 12, 2006

Pat Sheley
Pat served as the 281st AHC Operations Officer from October, 1966 to November, 1967

Patrick M. Sheley 1929 - 2006. Patrick M. Sheley passed away on Sunday, November 12, 2006, in Tucson, AZ, after a short illness. He was born April 16, 1929 to Alfred and Roxie Sheley of Ligonier, Indiana. Patrick served in the U. S. Army from 1947 until 1970, retiring as a LTC. He served in Germany, Korea and Vietnam. While in Viet Nam he received the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star medal for heroism. He was a member of the VFW post in Kendallville, Indiana and Sierra Vista, Arizona. He married Chi Yon Yun in 1969 and lived in Kendallville, Indiana until 1998, when he moved to Tucson, Arizona, where he resided with his wife until her death, in 2001. In March of 2006 he moved to Sierra Vista, AZ. Patrick was a member of the Saint Francis De Sales congregation in Tucson and the Saint Andrews Church in Sierra Vista. Pat was a loving Husband, Father and Grandfather. He loved golf, reading, watching westerns, and traveling around the country to visit his family and friends. He will be missed by all. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Patricia Johnson, his wife, Chi Yon and his son, Patrick A. Sheley (Bud).
 
Pat is survived by his sisters, Nancy Lambright, Linda (Robert) Heltzel, Joyce Allen, and his brother, Alfred (JR) (Margaret) Sheley all from Northern Indiana. He is also survived by his children, Michael (Peggy) Sheley from Houston, TX, Lee (Patty) Sheley from Sierra Vista, AZ, Sally (Robert) Taylor from Clinton, Utah, Carole (Kelly) Gubler of North Salt Lake City, Utah, Kim (Rachel) Sheley of Seattle, Washington, Kathleen Sheley of South Bend, Indiana, Hyon Suk Oh of Seoul, Korea. He is also survived by 24 grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren..

Published in the Tucson on 11/15/2006
December 9, 2006

From Earl Broussard,
I served with Major Sheley in Vietnam in 1967 while we both served in the 281st Assault Helicopter Company. While I never met him, I knew of him, and we who served thought highly of him and honor him in our memory  as a brave warrior.
Earl Broussard (Houston, TX)
December 9, 2006

From Gary Stagman,
Patrick served with distinction with the 281st Assault Helicopter Company in Nha Trang Vietnam October 1966 to November 1967.. He will be missed greatly by all of his fellow "Intruders". Rest well as you were a fine man and gentleman.

Gary Stagman (Granite City, IL)




ESTESE N. SHIPES
March 15, 1946 - December 15, 1990

Last known Address: Franklin, GA.

findagrave 115851879




ANDREW M. SIMON
April 8, 1950 - September 3, 1993

SSAN Issued: New Jersey

findagrave.com 23894857




DOUGLAS L. SIMPSON
August 1, 1942 - December 7, 2009

Doug Simpson
281st Maintenance
3/67 - 3/68

doug1967
Doug 1967

doug1967
Jimmy Wright, Brad Shaw


Doug, Nha Trang 1967

Douglas L. Simpson, 67, of 3032 West Main Street Ext., Elizabeth City, NC died Monday, December 7, 2009 at Albemarle Hospital. Mr. Simpson was born on August 1, 1942 in Elizabeth City, NC to the late Clarence E. Simpson and Eriabell Horton Simpson. He was the husband of Brenda Russell Simpson. He was a retired electrician and worked for the United States Coast Guard as a Civilian Employee with ARSC. Mr. Simpson attended Pearl Street Pentecostal Church and Forest Park Church of God. He was a member of the William Clarence Jackson VFW Post #6060.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Simpson is survived by two daughters, Amy Simpson and Terri Phthisic and husband, Steven, all of Elizabeth City, NC; two sisters, Barbara Mogul and husband, Jack, of Bartlett, TN, and Margie Harrell and husband, Leonard, of Elizabeth City, NC; two grandchildren,
Michael Simpson and Jonathan Phthisic both of Elizabeth City, NC.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 10, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at Twiford's Memorial Chapel, 405 East Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC with the Rev. Roger Edwards, the Rev. Rick Lowry, and the Rev. Scott Neal officiating. Burial was held at West Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery
with Military Honors.

Doug and orphans

"Hi Jim,
Sooo glad to hear from you and SOOOO surprised to see this photo of Doug!! He frequently visited the orphanage outside of Na Trang. He often carried them items we sent to him from home - candies, toys, gum, etc. I believe the little girl he is holding is the "girl that stole his heart" ! Thank you for sending this to me. I will certainly make a print and add it to Doug's Army Scrapbook.
Love getting the 281st newsletter and keeping up with how the guys are doing. Great Job !!
Best regards to all.
Brenda Simpson"





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LTC BOBBY SINCLAIR
Died after his tour on July 15, 1990

Bobby Sinclair

Photo from January, 1968

FROM: Joe Baldwin
I remember Bobby Sinclair from the 281st AHC. I flew with him on some test flights. In fact he showed me how to land a chopper down wind. We where up in Kontum where this when this took place and I was in the left seat. A lot of pilots showed me how to fly but MAJ Sinclair showed me some other tactics. He was not a tall man if I remember him but I gave him a lot of respect. I stand 6'2.  Joe Baldwin 67-68

FROM Lance Ham: BARLHCATTLECO@aol.com
I assume this to be the XO we had for a short time. If so, I saw him once after tour. I was told to report to the parade field at Fort Rucker some time in 1969 in dress greens. While standing at attention, I could not see who was approaching until Maj. Sinclair did a left face in front of me. He said he saw orders where I was to receive a DFC with Oak leaf and had ask to present it. I thanked him for coming and after the ceremony, which was long with many presentations, he left the area. I never heard from him again, but always held a fond memory of him going out of his way to remember one he had served with. Sorry to hear of his passing. He was one of the good ones and I will miss never seeing him again. Lance Ham

FROM Brent Gourley:
Sometime around 1972 Bobby Sinclair showed up to be my Troop Commander at D/1-10 at Ft Carson. I was scout IP then, transitioned him to OH-58A. I don't remember him in 281st, although I may have been gone by then.




DANIEL W. SMITH
December 24, 1944 - August 3, 2014

Dan Smith
SP/5 Crew Chief

Daniel served in the 281 as a Crew Chief in 1970-71. He was laid to rest in the Washington Crossing National Cemetery, at Newtown, Bucks County, PA. Plot 3-838. Daniel will be remembered by his fellow Intruders, who believe that a man is not dead until he is forgotten.

findagrave 136597373




DONALD HAROLD SMITH
June 26, 1947 - February 13, 2013

name
Bandit Door Gunner
1968 - 1969

Donald Harold Smith, 65, passed away on Feb. 13, 2013, in Santan, Ariz. He was born June 26, 1947, to William and Beulah (Sapp) Smith Sr. in Sterling, Kansas. Don went to Stearns Elementary School, Altamont Junior High School and Klamath Union High School, into the Army and on to Vietnam. He was a Delta Force gunner and crew chief on the first helicopter to fly for Special Ops Missions. His name is on the Living Memorial Wall near Weed, Calif., and on a memorial brick at Veterans Memorial Park in Klamath Falls. He was awarded several medals, including Commendation Medal, Air Medal "V" Device for Heroism, First and Second Oak Leaf for Heroism with "V" Device.

dh_smith_officer

Returning home, Don became a Klamath Falls City Police Officer at 24 and resident deputy sheriff for Chiloquin, Ore.

Don then went to the Marshall Islands in Kwajalein as head of airport and island security, and Saudi Arabia, where he was head of the King Phad Hospital security. He returned to the Marshall Islands and married Yvette Mendoza in the Philippines. He returned to the U.S. and worked for Rock Shocks in San Jose, CA as head of security.

don_smith

Donald and Yvette moved to Santan AZ, where he resided until his death. Survivors include Yvette of Santan, his loving wife of 27 years. Military services were conducted in Mesa, Ariz., Feb. 19, 2013.

Letter from Yvette to Newsletter Editor Fred Mentzer

"Dear Fred,
How's everything going? Hope you're doing fine as well.
I'm sorry to tell you that Don has passed away on February 13, 2013. He died of pancreatic cancer. He was diagnosed last Feb. 2012.  Because of his health that he could not write well so was not able to communicate with you.
Don appreciated very much your concern by sending some veterans activities that left him elated that he was one of the members, even though he wasn't able to communicate with his acquaintances.
Lastly, I do hope that you can keep in touch with me."
Sincerely yours,
Yvette Smith



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CWO-2 L. A. SMITH
Died after tour in 1974

Served as an A/C with the Bandit platoon. Death was the result of an aircraft crash in Mexico.




TIMOTHY W SOMODY
October 23, 1939 - November 6, 2005
mausoleum

Place of Death: Mesa, Maricopa County, Arizona; SSN issued in Ohio.
Interred with his mom at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Mesa, Arizona.

findagrave 120785507




GARY THOMAS SOUTHWELL
July 14, 1941 - July 18, 2019

Gary Southwell
Helicopter Pilot, 145th Aviation Platoon "Iroquois"

Obituary from the Southeast Sun, Enterprise, Alabama, July 22, 2019:

Gary T. Southwell, 78, of Enterprise, died July 18, 2019 in Detroit, Mich., where he was visiting with relatives.

Gary was born on July 4, 1941 in Wayne, Mich. to George and Gabrielle Southwell. He joined the U.S. Army at the age of 19 and served as a helicopter pilot in various units, including the 5th Special Forces and the 281st Assault Helicopter Company, during the Vietnam War. After returning home, he settled in Enterprise and became a helicopter instructor pilot at Fort Rucker, a job he held for over 39 years. Along the way, he acquired an associate’s degree from Enterprise State Junior College and a bachelor’s degree from Troy University. He was an avid reader and a lifelong learner with interests in many subjects. Throughout his life, Gary also worked in home repair and painting, a part-time occupation during his flying days and full-time after he retired. He made friends of his customers and almost everyone he ever met. He had a lifetime’s worth of stories, and he loved to tell them.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Gaylord Southwell and Gregory Southwell; and his sister Giselle Major.

Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Jean Southwell of Enterprise; his sons Garrett Southwell and Robert Sanders (Stefany), all of Atlanta, Ga., and Mark Southwell (Patricia) of Frederick, Md.; his daughters Genevieve Dardeau (Michael) of Mobile and Megan Southwell (Ryan Prows) of Los Angeles, Calif.; seven grandchildren; sisters Gaynal Lawson (Robert) of Pinckney, Mich., and Gail Southwell of Franklin, Tenn.; and his brothers George Southwell of St. Claire Shores, Mich., and Geoffrey Southwell (Mary Ann) of Shepardsville, Ky.

findagrave.com #201402365

Gary Southwell
Gary with an OH-58B.

Gary Southwell
Gary in Vietnam with the 145th Aviation Platoon




EUGENE "GENE" STAGGS
December 4, 1943 - December 23, 2018

Gene Staggs
Bandit Door Gunner
March, 1969 to May, 1970

Gene served with the 281st AHC as a Wolf Pack Door Gunner from December 1965 until December 1966. He remained in the military and retired as a CWO-4, completing 28 years of service to his country. He was a member of the Intruder association and was living in Angier, NC at the time of his death. The Intruders of the 281st AHC shall not forget Gene. His Obituary follows:

"The jump was a go" on December 23, 2018, for Chief Warrant Officer 4 Retired Elbert Eugene (Gene) Staggs passed away after a long illness, leaving this TDY on Earth for his permanent duty station in Heaven. Born December 4, 1943, in Fleming, KY. He joined the Army after high school and proudly served his country as a member of the US Special Forces. His became a pilot which was a lifelong dream for him, his tour of duty was 26 years. During his service to his country, he earned the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, and numerous other medals and citations. After retiring, Florida sunshine called him to golfing and fishing. Gene is survived by his loving wife Barbara, and three children, Crystal Koho of Vernon, TX., and Shawn Neeley of Florence, KY., and Kevin Kirkman of Fuquay-Varina, NC; Grandson, Zak Koho.




GARY L. STAGMAN
Margh 29, 1944 - September 9, 2023

Gary Stagman
Crew chief in three platoons and maintenance sergeant
1/66 to 12/70

Gary L. Stagman, 79, of Granite City, IL died on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at Gateway Regional Medical Center in Granite City, IL.
He was born on March 29, 1944 in Prairie du Chien, WI to Burnell Stagman and Willa E. (Duff) Kruempel. Gary married Nicki Whisker in Savannah, IL on June 7, 1969 and celebrated 54 years in June.
The retired U.S. Army veteran served from 1964 to 1984. He served 4 years with the 281st AHC (assault helicopter company) in Vietnam and was instrumental in finding and recruiting veterans from his unit. He was the membership memorial reunion chairman for the 281st AHC association. Gary worked with the multi-national peacekeeping force in Egypt and he was a jack of all trades. Gary had a gruff approach but a big heart- helping anyone who was in need. He didn’t do “slow”- always working at something like mechanics and woodworking.
The loving husband and father is survived by his wife and two sons, 3 brothers, a sister, and many nieces and nephews and special kids. ... Burial will be at a later date at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Mo.

Online guestbook and obituary available at www.wojstrom.com




CW4 BOBBIE LENVILLE STANFILL
February 5, 1935 - October 9, 2007

Bobbie served with the 281st AHC as a Bandit Pilot and Maintenance Officer in 1969-70

CW4 (Retired) Bobbie Lenville Stanfill, age 72, of Ozark, died Tuesday evening, Oct. 9, 2007, at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. Funeral services will be held Sunday, Oct. 14, 2007, at 5 p.m. in the Chapel of Holman Funeral Home in Ozark with the Rev. David R. Saliba officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 3:30 to 5 p.m. prior to the service. Interment will be Monday, Oct. 15, 2007, at 2 p.m. in Franconia Cemetery at Aliceville, TN with full Military Honors, Holman Funeral Home of Ozark directing.

Bobbie was born Feb. 5, 1935, in Fruitland, Tenn., and grew up in Aliceville. He entered the United States Army in February 1952 and married Annie Laura Dean on July 4, 1953. He served three tours of duty in Vietnam and one in Korea, retiring as a CW4 at Fort Rucker in July 1984. During his 32 years of service, Bobbie received numerous distinguished service awards, to include four Good Conduct Medals, Master Parachutist Badge, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and the Meritorious Service Medal. He was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division in Fort Bragg, N.C., where he trained as a paratrooper and a combat Army medic and earned his Practical Nursing License. He was in the Army's U.S. Special Forces - the Green Beret. He graduated from the helicopter training program in Savannah, Ga., and later became an instructor pilot and senior flight instructor. During his last ten years of military service, he also worked as a civilian LPN at the Dale Medical Center Emergency Room. Following his retirement from the armed services, he was a Medical Technician at Lyster Army Hospital until his retirement in March 2004. He attended Southside Baptist Church in Ozark.

Bobbie is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Annie Dean Stanfill of Ozark; his son and daughter-in-law, Bobbie Lenville Jr. and Traci Stanfill of Kauai, Hawaii; his daughter, Kathy Leigh Justice of San Antonio, Texas; and daughter and son-in-law, Janice and Lindsay Beddingfield of Montgomery; three precious granddaughters, Maria Grace Beddingfield, Tristen Elaine Presley Stanfill and Jillian Dayle Presley Stanfill; brothers and sisters, Agatha Tucker of Birmingham, Nell Greenley of Lafayette, La., Eva Sims of Valley, Billy Stanfill of Cleveland, Tenn., Jimmie Stanfill of Aliceville, and Libby Geeslin of Columbus, Miss. The family request that memorials be made in Bobbie's memory to the Alabama Kidney Foundation, P. O. Box 12505, Birmingham, AL 35202, or to the Southeastern Diabetes Education Service, 500 Chase Park South, Suite 104, Hoover, AL 35244.

FROM: Dean Roesner,

He was one of the good guys, always treated the crews with respect and as equals, possibly because he had been enlisted and came from the SF community. I remember him as an "old guy" that had been around and seen a lot by the time he got in the 281st. According to his age now, he would have been 33 then and to a 21 year old that was ancient. He was the PP and I the CE when we crashed and totaled 342. He will be missed. Dean

FROM: Bob Mitchel,

Bobby Stanfill and I got to be friends at An Hoa during a Delta Operation in the summer of 1969. We discovered that we were from the same hometown of Bemis, Tennessee a small cotton mill town of about 2500 population. He was about 10 years or so older than I so we did not know each other before we met in the 281st. Bobby is the one who had the heal of his boot blown off by shrapnel from an incoming 82mm mortar. He was running down the runway to a bunker and the round hit behind him knocking him off his feet, but only hitting the heal of his boot. Bob

FROM: John Korsbeck,

When I got to the 281st - one of the first "SFer" I met was Bobbie. We hadn't run into each other prior, but knew lots of the same guys. We used to go over to Recondo and DELTA and have several cool-ones with mutual acquaintances. Many times it took both of us - holding each other up, to get across runway 05 going home! On one of our more brilliant trips - Bobbie wanted us to get in a bird-dog and taxi our way home!!! I think Bobbie went into Maint. after the An Hoa trip. Before we had " the Yahoo Groups " - I used to call Bobbie a lot. After reading MOP's account of ' the heel on Bobbie's boot ' .... wasn't there also something about one of the FNG's almost shooting him in the foot in the Bandit hooch's ???? JK

FROM: Jeff Murray,

I flew with Bobbie once or twice, usually in a maintenance capacity. He was on top of a Huey at An Hoa once when we got mortared, as he scrambled to get off he got hit in the boot with piece of shrapnel, thought he was wounded. I also remember one night we got mortared and whoever got launched on the Rat Pack side flew an orbit or two and parked the aircraft. I was still outside when Bobby opened the logbook and saw 1 hour in the time flown slot and proceeded to speed walk toward the pilots hooch to get him to correct the time downward. I could hear Bobby yelling from a hundred yards away. He was a good guy. Jeff

FROM: Dave Dosker,

I well remember the incident when Bobby got knocked off his feet! I was walking back from the mess tent just before noon. Our friends outside the wire had a habit of sending one or two harassment rounds in about that time. I believe he had just landed from a test flight and was ahead of me to the right when the incoming round hit to our rear. We both went down. I was reacting to the sound but Bobby immediately yelled" I'm hit, I'm hit!" I was on my way to assist him when I saw him pull his foot practically up to his face, examine the inside of his boot and Yell as he scrambled to his feet "I'm not hit !" Later I recall a piece of shrapnel was located that may have been the culprit. Someone told me it was a 122mm. I remember hearing a "whistling noise" just before the explosion near one of the Indig tents. I was moving already but he beat me to a slit trench. The shrapnel went thru all three layers of the boot leather, snagged his sock but didn't break the skin. As I recall he had been a SF Medic. I looked up to him and respected him. A finer man never walked this earth. Dave

FROM: Lee Brewer,

I guess I have been quiet on this one long enough. Bobbie was another one along with Fred Funk, Untalan and I that tried to eat all of Mom's hot chili and anything else that had hot sauce or chilies on it. All of us having been in SF, had a close friendship (kinship) that will forever remain. Fred, Mom and I are the only ones remaining of that group. Lee

Stanfill grave



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JOHN TRAVIS STEPHENS
August 24, 1942 - December 19, 2007

John served in the 281st as a Wolf Pack pilot during 1968 and received his promotion to CW2 while serving in the unit. He earned a Distinguished Flying Cross. John passed away on December 19, 2007 as a result of wounds received while serving his second tour in Vietnam. John was laid to rest on December 31, 2007 in the National Cemetery at Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
He was born in Trinity, Texas and died in San Antonio. His son Anthony survives.

From Col. Mayhew on Dec. 27, 2017:
Intruders. I am sad to report that we lost a good friend yesterday. Colonel Judy Haggard, USA, Ret. (Nurse Corps) left us. Judy first came on the scene when WO John Stephens returned from his second tour, seriously injured from a claymore mine blast that struck him in the head. Judy cared for him while he was in the hospital, and continued to look after him until his death in 2007. At the reunion we talked about the fact that John belonged on the VN Wall and she volunteered to help get his death certificate corrected.
John was a true Intruder. He was the first Intruder pilot promoted to CWO-2 and it was an honor and pleasure to have served with him. Thanks to Judy, he lived out his last few years with a great friend that cared for him. His write-up with pictures is on the DAT section of the web site. JM

Col Haggard
Frankie Esquilin, Col. Judy Haggard, Joe and Carolyn Corney




Walter Stobe
1947 - May 28, 2022

Walt at reunion
Wolf Pack pilot 1968 - 1969

For those who don’t know Walt Stobe passed and his service was today. If you spend pretty much a full year with a bunch of guys there will be a select few you will never forget and when you know they are sick you tell yourself to be ready for their funeral. Walt was one of those guys who, when he came to Wolf Pack, immediately fit in. His New York attitude was new to me but we got along great and I loved flying with him. He kept me entertained in the club for hours. We linked up again in Houston for a reunion and then he had the misfortune of contracting a brain tumor. It affected him for years but unless you really knew Walt you would not know he had this tumor. He came to the Ft Bragg reunion after I told his wife that we would pick him up at the airport and deposit him back again at the end. The flood delayed his departure a bit but we took care of him and he made the rounds all night, paying particular attention to the tables where the Wolf Pack crew chiefs sat. About a week ago I had this premonition something was amiss and I called him, but I got no answer. I perhaps should have persisted.

I just found out Walt had passed when I read an email late last night. The service was this morning, it was impossible for me to get there. Intruders shouldn’t pass without other intruders around to say goodbye and this was no exception. Our own Jack Interstein also got the note and made the trek to the service, both as a friend and to represent the 281st. He met and talked with his wife and family. We all owe Jack a debt of gratitude.

Walt and WolfPack

This picture was taken inside the Nha Trang BOQ, L-R is me, Walt, Steve Watkins and Bob George.
I’m not real sure how I got to be the last man standing. I will post some more pics in another email.

Rest Walt Stobe, you’ve earned it.
~ Jeff

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Walt at plaque dedication.

At the Special Ops HQ where our plaque was dedicated, Walt is standing in front of Dean Roesner and Paul Maledy with Ken Hamilton and Dave Dosker lending a hand.

 
flight line

I took the photo of Stobe on the flight line with Steve Watson, Ken Miller, Larry Humphrey & Jim Murphy in Nha Trang in 1969 (Wolf Pack book page139) I’m to Stobe’s right at Ft Bragg…the last time I saw him. Thanks for getting him there. The short story on page 147 of “Wolf Pack”is one of hundreds you could tell about Walt “Stobe”. He was one of a kind. He not only kept us entertained but, was one you could count on.
~ Wes

_____________________________________

Some Walt photos. I first meet Walt at the wall when he and several NY Intruders arrived by bus. You could always identify Walt by his Red Wolf Pack shirt. He was a proud member of the Pack and a great Intruder whom we shall miss. RIP in peace Walt, we shall remember you forever. ~ JM

Walt at reunion
 
reunion award presentation
 
award presentation award presentation

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family plaque wall

Just got back from funeral. Got there a few minutes late thanks to the usual NYC/Long Island AM traffic. 135 mile round trip. The seats were filled. Quite a few vets as apparently from what was said, Walt helped many of them and several spoke up. He had a Marine Guard by his casket. I think it was an old friend Walt had assisted in some way. Two sons and a step son spoke glowingly of Walt. Spoke with the wife and family and let them know I was representing 281st. He had several 281st caps on a table with many family pictures. Glad I made journey.
  ~Jack Interstein

_____________________________________

old friends
Walt paying his respects to his friend WO Gardner.
A BP Photo



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DOUGLAS R. STOWE
November 10, 1947 - April 29, 2021

name

Douglas, known to his fellow Intruders as Doug, joined the 281st in October, 1968 and returned home in September, 1969. During his tour as an Intruder in the 281st Assault Helicopter Company Doug flew with the 1st Platoon, the Rat Pack. He was recognized by the members of the unit to be an excellent helicopter pilot and as such he performed numerous combat missions for units of the 5th Special Forces Group and Project Delta, the Groups long Range Reconnaissance Unit. Doug was highly respected by the members of the 281st , especially the crew member that he flew with. He was a great Intruder and we shall miss him. We shall always remember him as we believe that a man is not dead until he is forgotten. Rest in peace Intruder, you served your country and your unit well and for that, we thank you.

Doug hunting
In Loving Memory

Douglas R. Stowe
November 10th 1947 - April 29th 2021
Clovis, New Mexico - Durango, Colorado
Service Tuesday May 11th 2021
Stowe Farm - Cedar Point

Douglas R. Stowe was born November 10th, 1947, to LA and Edith Stowe in Clovis, New Mexico. The following spring his parents took him to their farm in Colorado, and the family settled in nearby Dove Creek in 1955. There he grew up with his siblings Bill, Brad, and Kaylynn. After graduating high school and attending a year of college, Doug volunteered to serve his country and joined the Army to become a helicopter pilot in 1967. This lead to a tour in Vietnam with the 281st AHC. Upon completion of his service he returned to Dove Creek to work the farm and Ranch with his dad.

In 1973 he met the love of his life, Julie Ann Hoey, and they were married the following year. Together they raised their daughter, Stina Kay Soper (Stowe), and son, Russell Cary Stowe, and celebrated 47 wedding anniversaries. While the farm and ranch kept him busy, he also operated the town of Dove Creek water/waste water treatment plants for over 30 years. After retiring from the town because he had "had enough of the bureaucracy", he decided he would run for county commissioner, in which he would win and serve two terms. Over the years he enjoyed volunteering his time with the VFW, Fire District, and Southwest Water District. In his free time he enjoyed hunting, fishing, wood working, and traveling. Most of all, he loved spending time with his kids and grandkids, Tanner Soper, Lochlan Stowe, Kylah Soper, and Evelynn Stowe. On April 29th, 2021, his service to his family, country, and community was complete, and he joined his mother and father in heaven to watch and guide us all from above. He will forever be loved and missed dearly. (Written by his Family)

_____________________________________

In November of 68, we were at An Hoa for a Delta. On one mission, we had come into a sloped ridge (one of a series of finger ridges that ran down to a river) that was clear enough of trees to allow us to get the uphill (left skid) down, although there was elephant grass about 4 to 5 feet high. The LRRP team was being chased by the enemy and had been directed to the PZ by the FAC. We came in from the north to the ridge which ran east/west. The bad guys were on the south face of the ridge and the team had just made it to the top as we hovered in. As soon as the team was onboard, we rose up a few feet and the nose dipped. At that point I knew we were going forward right over the bad guys, so I opened up with the M60 (I was a gunner on the right side) and started cutting grass about a foot below its top so that if any of them poked their heads up they would be dead before they could shoot. I was cutting grass back and forth to the front and down slope to the right as we started forward and swinging the gun all the way to the front stop which meant the barrel was in the door way and my bullets and tracers were going right past the Peter Pilot. As we cleared the ridge, we made a very steep right turn and went down through the next gulley in a dive gaining airspeed. All this time I’m shooting forward at 45 degrees and sweeping the gun up and down as fast as I can to try and discourage anyone in the gulley from getting off accurate shots at us. So the Peter Pilot was really getting an earful from the gun almost right outside of his window. As we cleared the trees at the bottom of the gulley, I swung the gun to the rear and continued pounding the clearing, I kept filling it with lead after we were over a mile away and climbing, I was literally lobbing the tracers into it, with the thought that next time, they will think twice about chasing a team and shooting at a chopper. We picked up two rounds, one through the windscreen that sent Plexiglas into the AC’s face (Steve Mathews) and the other through the tail stinger. All total I fired 1900 rounds with one pull of the trigger (I had replaced the 600 round can with a minigun can which held 2000 rounds). Due to the steepness of the diving turn, the CE never got off a shot. For years, I always wondered who the PP was, all I remembered was that he was very new, and had the bullet hit the AC, I doubted he would have had the experience to grab the controls in time to miss the trees. Well, at a reunion I found out the PP was Doug Stowe, and he said that my supposition was probably correct as that was his very first combat mission, and afterward he decided that if they were all like that, he wouldn’t survive his tour. Thankfully, they weren’t all like that, and we both survived our tours.
Dean Roesner, CE Rat Pack, 68-69




THOMAS ROBERT STUNDA
January 24, 1938 - September 26, 2011

WO Thomas Stunda served in the 281s AHC in 1969 - 70 as an aviator. He graduated from Army flight school with Class # 66-12.
Thomas was 73 years of age at the time of his death in Houston, Texas. He shall not be forgotten.




LTC (Ret) CARSON G. SUBER
April 27, 1938 - February 1, 2020

Carson Suber
Rat Pack 67-68

Suber in Camo Carson was born in Thomasville, Georgia on April 27, 1938, the son of Willie Glenn Suber and Dicy Eddings Suber. Carson joined the U.S. Army and served two tours in Vietnam as a Helicopter Aviator, flying the Bell UH-1 Iroquois, commonly known as a “Huey”. He flew soldiers in and out of battle, medical transport and medical evacs. On his first tour he was shot down, and he recovered and went back for the second tour. Carson married the love of his life, Mary Neal, on September 27, 1959 in Moultrie, Georgia. After his retirement from the military, he graduated from Troy State University with a Master’s Degree, which he used to gain managerial positions with a few companies in town. Carson had a few things he enjoyed in life, including: Corvettes, the Atlanta Braves, and watching westerns. Carson loved his family. He was truly committed to family first, and he always enjoyed spending time with them at home and traveling with them.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary; a daughter, Judy Lynne Jones; and a brother, Michael Suber. Survivors include his son, David; a son-in-law, Gregory Jones; and a brother, Donnie “Hal” Suber.

_____________________________________

VHPA reports that LTC Carson G. Suber, Flight Class 67-12 passed away on February 1, 2020.

Captain Suber joined the 281st AHC in 1967. He took command of the 1st Platoon (Rat Pack), and served as the Platoon Commander for most of his tour. He was the Commander, when the unit integrated the 1st Platoon into Project Delta operations and he successful deployed his platoon in several Delta missions. He was a good officer, who took care of the men and led from the front.
Jack Mayhew, CMDR, 67-68

Thanks to JM, VHPA, and findagrave.com/207538670




JOSEPH "JOE" L. SULLIVAN, JR
June 26, 1943 - March 28, 2014

Joe Sullivan Joe Sullivan
Pilot 6th Airlift Platoon 1965-66


The obituary as seen on findagrave.com:

Chief Warrant Officer (CW4 Ret) JOSEPH L. SULLIVAN, JR., age 70 of Little Rock, passed away on March 28, 2014.

Chief Sullivan was the grandson of late Judge John L. and Hazel Sullivan, and the son of the late Colonel Joseph L. and Gloria Sullivan. Chief Sullivan was a 1961 graduate of Catholic High School and held a Bachelors Degree from UALR and a Masters Degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.

Chief Sullivan joined the Army in October 1964 and upon graduation from Warrant Officer Candidate Helicopter Flight Training in September 1965 arrived in Viet Nam in November of that year. Chief Sullivan was initially assigned to the 6th Aviation Platoon (Airlift) in direct support of the 5th Special Forces Group. The 6th Airlift Platoon and other aviation unites were joined together and formed the 281st Assault Helicopter Company. The 281st AHC was the first U.S. Army Helicopter Company organized and trained as a Special Operations Aviation unit in the Republic of Viet Nam. The 281st was placed under the Operational Control of the 5th Special Forces Group, Nha Trang, RVN. Chief Sullivan's second assignment in Viet Nam was with the Bravo Company 229th Aviation Battalion, 1st Cav Division (airmobile).

Chief Sullivan was a life member of the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA), American Legion. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Disabled American Veterans (DAV). His military awards include the Air Medal, three awards of National Defense Service Medal (Viet Nam, Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom), three awards of the Army Commendation Medal and others. Chief Sullivan retired from the Army in June 2003. Chief Sullivan also had a parallel civilian career with the State of Arkansas as a Senior Financial Examiner with the Arkansas Insurance Department.

His loving wife Wilma precedes him in death.

Survivors include his children Joe Sullivan, III and Deborah, Kim Swaggerty and husband Shannon and John Sullivan and wife Colleen, all of Charlotte, NC; Stepson Jameson Dormann of Atlanta, GA and stepdaughter Kimberly Wilfong husband Steven and grandson Gavin of Conway, AR. Two nieces, Dawn Teagle and husband Stan and grandniece Haileigh of Gainsville, FL, Leigh Skehan and husband Eddie and grand nephew Holden of Leesburg, FL and his nieces mother Joan Sullivan, of Leesburg, FL; two sisters, Kaye Duncan and her children Michael and Erin of Orlando, FL, and Barbara Stone and husband Jeff and daughter Megan and great nephew Barrett of Magnet Cove and wife and friend Kitty.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 4 in the chapel of Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth, 5800 W. 12th St., Little Rock with Brother James Wilson officiating. Interment with Military Honors took place at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery.
Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery
North Little Rock
Pulaski County
Arkansas, USA

findagrave.com/memorial/127506885/joseph-lewis-sullivan




PAUL JOSEPH SWOL
October 10, 1950 - May 19, 2002

Paul Swol
Bandit Door Gunner March 1969-May 1970

Paul Died in California on May 19, 2002 of cancer that resulted from his exposure to agent Orange. In 1969 he joined the 281st AHC as a POL Specialist and soon thereafter decided that he wanted to fly as a door gunner. Paul transferred to crew member status and served the remainder of his tour as a gunner with the Bandit Platoon of the 281st AHC in support of Project Delta, a special forces long range recon unit. Leaving the service in 1970 he returned to his home state of Connecticut for a short period and then on a visit to friends in California decided to remain in Fort Bragg where, at the time of his illness, he was a foreman with the Georgia Pacific Lumber Company. During the 281st AHC reunion in 2001, which Paul attended against his doctors advice, members of the unit discovered that he had not been awarded the air medal for his service in Vietnam. A team of his friends put together the award recommendation and Congressman Mike Thompson processed it through military channels. On May 18, 2002, the day before his death a group of his friends and former 281st mates visited with him and participated, along with his Congressman, in a ceremony in which he was presented with the long over due Air Medal. Paul is survived by his widow, Roschelle Swol and daughters Cheryl Swol, Amber Ellsworth, and Trina Nalor.

am/v
California Congressman Mike Thompson awarding Paul the Air Medal
on the day prior to his passing.

Paul's family resides at:
17894 Georges Lane
PO Box 293
Ft. Bragg, CA 95437
Tel: 707-964-5320



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