by Commander | Mar 31, 2020 | Living Histories
Left – Joe, Right – Mike DiRocco 1969 was the magic year for my brother Joe and me. I was six months into serving my third and final combat tour in Special Forces where I had found a home thirteen and a half years earlier. Imagine how excited I was to...
by Commander | Mar 29, 2020 | Living Histories
My father was an engaging and imaginative storyteller. As children, my sister and I listened wide-eyed as he regaled us with his adventures of Brucie and Mary, a fearless brother/sister duo who solved mysteries that would baffle Sherlock Holmes. Latimer Dexter Johns,...
by Commander | Mar 26, 2020 | Living Histories
Vietnam Army Ranger Tales By Phil Mayrand Not all that happens in war is sad/grim/ugly. In 1969 while I was in Co. F, 75th. Inf. Rangers, several Ranger LRP (Long Range Patrol) Teams were sent TDY (temporary duty) to Tay Nihn. We were treated like ‘redheaded...
by Commander | Mar 26, 2020 | Living Histories
I found this letter to Daddy in his files. It is from Mrs. Harriet Towers dated February 2, 1958. The postal service delivered mail then without all the “codes” they need now. Daddy knew “everyone” in the county and had written Mrs. Towers about selling property in...
by Commander | Mar 26, 2020 | Living Histories
There is a group photo on my wall, from my wife’s side of the family. It was taken a couple of years before Sy Smolen died. In the photo are 31 people, including Sy, who sits in the middle leaning on his cane. But for three factors—the right landing beach, an Army...
by Commander | Aug 17, 2019 | Living Histories
The Veterans History Museum of the Carolinas has the goals of honoring veterans, educating young and old, and preserving our proud history. Joni Pavlik, a museum volunteer, helps achieve these goals with her interview of a veteran and his story below. Bill Hudson grew...
