The Marines of

The Basic School, 1-67

TBS Emblem (14557 bytes)

 

Quantico, Virginia was the destination for 181 Marine Corps 2nd Lieutenants (and four 1st Lieutenants!) in June 1966, for "The Basic School". Almost all of us were newly graduated and commissioned; we knew it would be an interesting and possibly difficult 21-week experience before our "real" active duty assignments. Our class was designated Bravo ("B") Company.

Almost all of us became good friends with one another, whether our term of duty was brief, tragically cut short, or for 50 years.

29 years after we started, after much talk and procrastination about finding everyone and possibly having a reunion, a "TBS 1-67 Bulletin" was published and sent to 11 guys. 10 months later, the list of contacts had grown to more than 80 and there was a tentative plan for a reunion.

In June 1996, we had our first reunion, based at the Alexandria, VA Holiday Inn, through the hard work and great organizational skills of Bob Lange. In spite of a brief advance warning, 25 of us gathered with spouses, kids, and friends. On June 13, the "advance group" visited the evening parade at the Iwo Jima Memorial. The next evening, the full crew went to the Marine Barracks Evening Parade at 8th & I. The next day we toured Quantico, the Vietnam Memorial, and got together for a banquet.  The story is below.

Our class has had four more reunions, in 2001, 2006, 2011 and 2016.  Those stories are also below. The most recent reunion was in October 2016 to mark the 50th anniversary of our time at TBS.

We are in contact with 133 TBS 1-67 guys by USPS mail and email. 52 of our classmates have passed away. If you are curious about former Marine officers of this era, please check the links below.

TBS 1-67 Classmates Located

Deceased TBS 1-67 Classmates

Nancy Daley

David O'Sullivan, Nancy's long-time partner, sent an email to Bob Lange:

"I am sorry to have to share that Nancy joined Ray last night after a 3-wk battle with Legionnaire's Disease. She died peacefully at the hospital with her daughter, son and I gathered at her bedside holding her hand.

Nancy and I got back to see Ray's tree in May of 2022. We even stopped for dinner at Harry Browne's. You did so much to help her and keep Ray's memory alive. Thank you for all of your support. I'm in touch with her kids and will remain in contact going forward.

We have planned a private burial, where Nancy will be interred next to Ray in the "Soldiers' Field" section of the local cemetery. My dad was a Marine who saw active duty in Korea, so I smile when I say, I hope it isn't an insult for a Marine (or his wife) to be buried in Soldiers' Field. Anyway, we are planning to do a memorial in the late Spring or early Summer, and will notify you when those plans are set."

This is Nancy's obituary - Nancy Sousa Daley Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information (molloyfuneralhome.com)

Bob Lange sent a donation to the Vietnam Veteran's of America from our flower fund and it has been acknowledged

Bulletin #113, 114, 115

These Bulletins were published in October, November and December 2023.  The November Bulletin included the Commandant's Birthday message. The December Bulletin was a tradional version with a holiday greeting.

Kit Corcoran

Ken Burns sent a note: "...Kit passed away after an heroic struggle with Multiple Myeloma last Monday (October 2, 2023). He will be buried at the VA Cemetery aboard Pensacola at a date and time as yet to be determined."

Ken attended the celebration of life on November11 in Wilmington and sent photos of flowers sent on behalf of "B" Company. Ken reported "The family was extremely appreciative. In my remarks I explained the history of the flowers and the Cruise Book which I presented to Mary.  A super evening for a great Marine."

This is Kit's obituary  It states: "A graveside service with full military honors will be held at 1:30 pm on December 8 at the Barrancas National Cemetery, NAS Pensacola, FL." This photo is also from his obituary:

 "A-6 All Weather Attack Aircraft" is Kit's story about his A-6 experiences written for the Tulane NROTC Alumni Association.

https://tulanenrotcalumni.org/2019/07/a-6a-all-weather-attack-aircraft/

 In Memory of Alex Welch

Alex, from our 2016 TBS cruise book

"To Our Wonderful Friends and Family:

Our beloved Alex (Sandy) passed away this morning, June 15th.

He died peacefully - with Cameron and Anne Marie by his side and Deanna sending her love via phone from London.

He was comfortable and in no pain. In the weeks leading up to his death, he said repeatedly that he was not afraid. And that he was beyond grateful for the life he was given and the love he felt for and from his family and friends.

Alex will be buried at the Princeton Cemetery. We will hold a Memorial Service at Nassau Presbyterian Church. We will send details as soon as we can so anyone in the area who would like to attend, may.

Alex’s family thank you all for the love and support you gave him and us during Alex’s illness. We love you all.

Please feel free to pass this along to anyone we may have missed.

Love,

Anne Marie, Deanna, Stephen, Cameron & Carolyn"

Alex's Obituary

Update:

"We will hold a small Internment ceremony for family at the Princeton Cemetery before coming together in service with all our friends to celebrate Sandy's life.

Services will be held on Monday, June 26, 2023 at Nassau Presbyterian Church, Princeton, New Jersey at 2 pm, followed by a reception at the Tap Room across the street at the Nassau Inn. We welcome all who are able to join. For friends and family who may not be able to be with us in person, we are confirming with the church whether joining virtually can be arranged, and will be in touch with those details shortly.

For those who have requested, donations can be made to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation in lieu of flowers: Donate to MCSF - Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation

In gratitude,
Anne Marie Kelly-Welch"

Later:

"Dear friends and family,

We are grateful to Nassau Presbyterian Church that the service in celebration of Alex's life will be broadcast live for those of you who would like to join from afar on Monday, June 26 at 2 pm Eastern Time.

Please click the link below or copy/paste into your browser to join:

https://boxcast.tv/view/alex-welch-memorial-service-gwmar9b8oeqmsamkopi2

The broadcast will go live at 1:45pm to make sure the connection is working, and the link will work anytime after that for 90 days - so it does not have to be viewed live. Due to copyright restrictions, this is a private livestream and therefore should not be posted on social media (not that we may be inclined, but it must be said.)"

From Andy Vaart:

"Sad, though expected, news re. Alex Welch from his widow, Anne Marie. He'd been suffering and fighting with a particularly malicious form of prostate cancer.

Alex was a real trooper and good friend, who made a point of not allowing us to lose touch. And he was always positive in his outlook.

I last talked to him a bit over a week ago. He'd hoped to spend some time with his son trekking the Gettysburg and Antietam battlefields. To that end, he had gotten a special treatment, hoping it would energize him for that trip. Alex and Cameron made it to Gettysburg a week ago Friday evening, but his body gave out Saturday morning, and they returned immediately and Alex went into hospice care directly.

Semper fi in greatest sadness, Andy"

And later from Andy:

"I had sent to Deanna Alex's page from an early version of the 2016 book which included Alex's profile and a cartoon spoofing our training, a cartoon he commissioned a cartoonist friend to do. I had forgotten that Alex actually commissioned an illustration of our B Company timeline, which became the closing section of the cruise book (pp 135–139). For us, that was a great gift."

From Cam Smith:

"Alex and I were in the same platoon at TBS (4th Platoon) and he and I roomed together immediately following TBS (late 1966-67) when we were sent to Camp Lejeune for Supply and Logistics School. I think it was about a 10-week course. I remember Alex as always polite and positive, punctual, well prepared, able to find something good in almost any situation. He certainly helped me improve my perspective. When they chose the name of the film “An Officer and a Gentleman” they must have had Alex in mind.

Sincere condolences, and Kind regards to you and your family,"

Bulletin #110, 111, 112

Published in December 2022, then March and May in 2023.

Bulletin #109

The Volume XXIII, No. 5, Bulletin was published in time to celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday, with the Commandant's Birthday message.  The Bulletin included recommendations from classmates for articles about the Marine Corps and a report on the recent gathering of USMC F-4 Phylers and Phixers in Dallas TX.

Barry Lilja

When emails were returned from Ralph Barry Lilja, a search found that he had passed away on November 8, 2021. Bob Lange found this:

Ralph Barry Lilja

We also discovered that Barry came from a distinguished family of Marines:

THE MILITARY RECORDS OF THE LILJA BROTHERS OF NATICK THAT FOUGHT IN THE PACIFIC DURING WWII

"On June 15, 1944, just one month prior to the birth of his son, First Sergeant Ralph Lilja, age 31, was killed in action just hours after landing on Saipan."

Bulletin #108

This Bulletin had updates on services for Ross Brown and news of memorials for our first combat casualty, Earl Smith.

Bulletin #107

This Bulletin, Volume XXIII, No. 3, had comments by Andy Vaart and Bob Lange about the much-delayed 55th reunion, recommending spring, 2023 as the best plan.  Bob wrote that he would be an organizer for the Reunion.  There was another article about the controversy over the future direction of the Marine Corps.

Fred Meier sent this:

"More sad news for B Co., we've lost another of the Best. Our classmate and the Marine's Marine, Col. Ross Brown, reported for his duty assignment to "guard the Streets of Heaven" yesterday. Kare Brown reported that he passed peacefully, in his sleep at 0245, 29 August 2022. He was at home, family with him, at their Mitchell Point home on San Juan Island, WA, overlooking the Haro Straights of Puget Sound - his favorite place on earth.

Ross has been battling Parkinson's for an extended time, and experienced a rapid downturn in the past year. He had been in hospice care at home for a considerable time. There is no information on services at this time, but will update when we know.

Ross is survived by his incredible wife Kare, his beloved daughter Care Maree, and his adored best buddy, Grandson Odin."

Fred Meier updated services for Ross:

“The services will be 2 PM, October 8, at St David's Episcopal Church in Friday Harbor… The florist of choice in Friday Harbor is Field and Flower… Arrangement should probably be sent to the Church; Ross' wish is that any donations be made to Disabled American Veterans.”

Bob Lange and Woody Goble have arranged flowers for Kare and at the services.  Fred Meier was at the memorial with Prudy. He spoke at the chapel in tribute to Ross.  The ceremony was on Zoom;  Bob Lange, Al Bassett, Skip Curtis, Mike Wholley, Hon Lee, Bob Schmitt and Jim Scott joined with Zoom.

This is an obituary for Ross from the San Juan Journal:

https://www.sanjuanjournal.com/obituaries/ross-a-brown-1944-2022/

and in the San Juan Islander:

https://sanjuanislander.com/obituary/35055/col-ross-brown-25-july-1944-29-august-2022

Walt Chapman

Skip Curtis found Walt's obituary, much after his passing:

Walt's Obituary

Jim Scott sent photos of both Ross and Walt when they all got together in Vietnam, in 1967.

Bulletin #106

Bulletin #106, Volume XXIII, No. 2, noted the passing of three of the 1-67 family.  There was an article about the controversy between commandant Gen. Berger and a several retired Marine Corps generals: "There is a war going on over the future of the Marine Corps.

Phil Norton

The Norton family - Carol Norton (wife), Danielle Atchley and Laurel Norton (daughters) - notified us that Phil passed away on May 31.

When Andy Vaart learned of Phil's illness in April, he sent this:

"Phil, you will remember, was a mustang who was commissioned in our time and joined us through TBS. He would serve, among other things, as an advisor to Vietnamese units. In more recent times, from Oklahoma City, he played a big role in helping me put together the B Company Cruisebook, which so many of you possess, and which we have given to so many family members and ROTC units that nurtured us through college."

This is Phil's obituary

Judy Lange

Bob Lange sent us this sad news:

"Our Sweet Judy Blue Eyes left us early in the morning of May 17th to be with our Lord for eternity. Her sixteen year incredibly difficult struggle with Alzheimer's Disease finally ended. We miss her greatly but know she is in a far better place and we thank the Lord for sharing her with us for these 78 years.

Funeral Arrangements are being handled by Alhiser-Comer Mortuary, 225 South Broadway, Escondido, CA (760) 745-2162; alhiser-comer.com

There will be a Visitation and Rosary at 7 PM May 31 at Alhiser-Comer.

A Funeral Mass Of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM June 1 at St. Michael's Catholic Church, 15542 Pomerado Rd., Poway, CA, (858) 487-4755; smspoway.org

All are invited to a Celebration Luncheon in honor of Judy following the Funeral Mass, location to be announced.

Judy will be interned at Rose Hills Cemetery in Whittier, CA, next to her mother and grandparents in a private family service on June 2.

Flowers may be sent to Alhiser-Comer for Judy. Or, in lieu of flowers a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital may be made in Judy's Memory.

Thank you, family and friends for your love and support of our dear Judy.

Blessings,

Bob, Chris, & Scott"

Bob later sent a link to photos of Judy's Funeral Mass: https://cazaresmedia.com/p329271808

Fred Meier arranged tropical flowers for Bob from Woody Goble:  Bob sent a note when the flowers arrived:

"Thank you B Company for the beautiful tropical flowers for Judy Blues Eyes from Woody's Flower Farm in Maui. They are spectacular!! The "vase" and my flower arrangement skills do not do them justice.

Judy loved tropical flowers.

Semper Fidelis,

Bob & Family"

Many B Company classmates contributed for flowers at the Visitation.  Al Bassett send this photo:

Elaine Davis

Elaine was married to Jerry Zimmer at the time of his F-4 crash in RVN.  For more than 50 years, Elaine lobbied for and documented the search to recover Jerry's remains:  https://www.bringingjerryhome.com/ This was sent by her husband, Ron Davis:

"It’s with great sadness that I must tell you, Elaine passed away last Thursday morning (April 21, 2022).

She had a serious stroke at home on 4/13/22. Paramedics transported her to Rhode Island Hospital ER in about 2 hours. However, she experienced a significant bleed in the cortex area of her brain while in the ER. This caused swelling and bruising to her brain. She was moved into the RIH Neurology Special Care unit for 4 days. They are known as the best neurology unit in RI and Southern MA.

The bleeding was finally stopped, but she also developed pneumonia and sepsis while in the hospital. Fortunately, Craig, Brett and my oldest granddaughter, Alie, were with me during this terrible time. The doctors advised us that she was unlikely to improve at all and we should think seriously about keeping her in a comfort mode in a recommended Hospice Facility. She was moved to an inpatient hospice unit on the evening of 4/19/22 where we could visit her at any time of day without typical hospital restrictions. She passed peacefully on Thursday morning, 4/21/22.

We will have a Celebration of Life for Elaine at the San Diego Yacht Club on Sunday, May 22, 2022."

Bulletin #105

This Bulletin, Volume XXIII, No. 1,  featured Andy Vaart's announcement, after meeting with Bob Lange and Hon Lee, that our much-delayed 55th reunion would not happen in 2022 unless there was immediate action!  To that end, Andy suggested:

"So as a way to sharpen thinking and reaction, I am going to put out a "strawman" idea to which any may react with approval (in principle) or alternative ideas.

The strawman offering is to gather in New Orleans for the Marine Corps Birthday. New Orleans is a good midpoint for travel (methinks), will be in a reasonable state of weather, may/repeat/may have opportunity to tie in with Marine Corps reserve aviation reserve component in the vicinity, and has WW II museum that gets good reviews on a number of fronts."

Responses came in and were published in Bulletin 105.1.  Reaction to New Orleans is mostly positive - stay tuned!

We Lost Another Classmate

An email from a friend of Bob Boehm reported that Bob died of Covid-19 on January 17, 2022.  This is his obituary.  Stories from those who know of his humor and basketball skills are on this page.  Our condolences to his wife Michaele and his family.

Bulletin #104 - Two Classmates Pass Away

The "traditional" annual Bulletin was published in late December, numbered Vol XXII No 5.  It listed all members of TBS 1-67 with last known contact information. The Bulletin will be revised with new contact data.

After the Bulletin was sent, email alerted us that Jim Stokes and James Johnson had passed away.  

This is Jim Stokes' obituary.  Services are on December 27 and 28 in Wellesley MA. 

The obituary for Jim Johnson is here.

Further details will be added as they are known.

Gil Game

Gil's Citadel classmate Claude King reported that Gil passed away in Charleston SC on February 21, 2020.  This is his obituary.

Bulletin #103

The Volume XXII, No. 4, Bulletin was published in time to celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday, with the Commandant's Birthday message.  A revised copy was sent on November 20.  The Bulletin included news from classmates and articles about the Marine Corps to improve retention and to address the need for more Covid-19 vaccinations.

Bulletin #102

A short Labor Day Bulletin was published and later revised for the holiday.

Bulletin #101

Another "milestone" Bulletin was sent to class members on July 5, 2021.  This was the 55th anniversary of our first day in TBS 1-67. 

A few days later, a 1985 campaign document was added to the memorial page of Dave Martin.

Hays Parks

Classmate Hays Parks passed away May 11, 2021 as reported by his wife Maria Lopez-Otin. Interment services were held on June 2, at 11:00 at the Quantico National Cemetery. Several TBS classmates attended and this is a report: Hays Interment.

Eileen Stokes

Eileen, Jim Stokes'  wife of 52 years, passed away on April 18.  Bob Lange sent flowers to her services with this note:

"Dear Jim, Erin, Mike, and Courtney,
We are saddened by the passing of dear Eileen from this life and the pain you are feeling, but comforted knowing she is at peace with our Lord for eternity.
Semper Fidelis,
B Company, United States Marine Corps"

More about these passings will be in the next Bulletin.

Bulletin #100

This "milestone" Bulletin was sent to class members on President's Day, February 15. It included news from classmates and general news about the Marine Corps.  An updated Bulletin was issued a few days later with more updates and all classmates were notified of a first-ever Zoom "meeting" scheduled for February 22. 

Sadly, the Bulletin reported the passing of Nate Wong's wife Sandee.  They were married in 1968 after Nate returned from Vietnam.  Sandee's obituary is here.

Bob Kuhlman

Bob's sister, Sandra Lindemer (sjlindy@twlakes.net) forwarded a note from Vicki Ekmark about her completion of a blog on Bob:

I am writing to let you know that I have finished your brother's blog post on my website. It is up and ready for you to look at. The link is as follows: https://www.rumboogiecrew.com/post/robert-j-kuhlman-mia-in-vietnam....

This is a very nice tribute!

Bulletin #99

This Bulletin was the annual holiday greetings special in December, 2020. It included the "true story" about the "Soldier’s Christmas Poem" which was not done in combat, but rather composed by Marine James M. Schmidt at the Marine Barracks in 1986.  It included other general news about the Marine Corps.  The Bulletin noted suggestions for Charlotte, Pensacola and San Diego as sites for for the 55th reunion.  Dave Taylor later added his Pensacola research.

Bulletin #98

This Bulletin was published in time to celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday, with the Commandant's Birthday message.  An article also noted changes pending to the boot camp experience.

Bulletin #97

This Bulletin was published a day before July 4th, 2020.  A revised Bulletin was issued on July 12.  The revision included contact information updates on classmates and similar updates on "Marine in the News".

Bulletin #96

We were alerted to the "Taps Across America" project prior to the Memorial Day weekend.  Bulletin #96 was published the day before the Monday holiday, to alert classmates of the planned 3 pm playing of taps. As usual, our classmates also sent interesting articles for inclusion.

Soon after publication, we learned that a new engineering scholarship has been established at the University of Mississippi for classmate Henry Dennis "Denny" Babers.  Also a report and photos from Alan Boyd, Earl Smith's cousin.  See our Memorials page for details on both. 

Bulletin #95

This issue was published just after Easter, 2020.  As the covid pandemic became a national issue, it noted the cancellation of NROTC units  celebrating their 75th anniversaries. General news about the Marine Corps filled out the Bulletin.

Bulletin #94

It was published during the first week of March, 2020.  In addition to reporting Mike White's passing, it noted several NROTC units were celebrating their 75th anniversaries.

Mike White

Classmate Mike White passed away February 9, 2020 as reported by his wife Aood.  Mike moved to Phuket, Thailand after his active duty service and had a rental car business in this vacation area.  The business survived the 2004 tsunami but was badly affected.  In 2011, Mike wrote about having a second home in Prae; his email stated this was 750 km north of Bangkok. He retired to Prae with Aood and son Artie.  

Flowers and a condolence card were sent to Aood and Artie.

Rich Hodary sent the photo below of Mike when he was the company commander of a Motor Transport Company:

Mike's photo below is from the "Raiders" section of the 1966 Oregon State University yearbook:

Mike's OSU classmate Larry Springer was also a Raider and explained: "The “Raiders” were an extracurricular outfit sponsored by Army ROTC.  There were about fifty guys that were organized into a ranger-like platoon that conducted patrols, land nav exercises, and various infantry activities on weekends.  The Army provided blank ammo for the ROTC M-1s and stuff.  Those of us that were Marine Options in the Navy ROTC “joined” the raiders and served as aggressor forces primarily. The outfit was as much a social organization as anything else."

Bulletin #93 and John Fore

The "traditional" annual Bulletin was published in early-December, numbered Vol XX No 5.  It lists all members of TBS 1-67 with last known contact information. The Bulletin was revised in mid-December with new contact data.

Clark Reifsnider noted the Bulletin contact list had contact data for John Fore.  Clark had been alerted by a VMI classmate that John had passed away in January, 2019.  Further details will be added as they are known.

Added TBS Logo for Land's End

Andy Vaart created a second logo (below) that can be added to products ordered from Land's End.  See the latest TBS 1-67 Bulletin for the TBS 1-67 Land's End website link and password for ordering clothes or other merchandise.

Bulletin #92

A Bulletin with the Commandant's Birthday Message was sent to all class members just a few days before the November 10 Marine Corps Birthday. 

Bulletin #91

The 91th Bulletin was published at the end of July, 2019.   It included updates to our class members and several stories about other Marines.

Honoring Our KIA/LOD Classmates

Bob Lange took the lead for an ongoing B Company project to ensure that all B Company officers killed in action or in the line of duty continue to be honored and remembered by the universities they attended.  Presentation ceremonies at the officers' universities include the presentation of a TBS 1-67 Cruise Book, created for the TBS 1-67 B Company 50th Reunion..

The last three presentations were made in May, 2019.  With this completion, each of our 21 KIA/Combat Related/LOD losses have been honored at his university/college.

Cruise Book Memorial Presentations

Allan Buescher

We received an email from Al's son Troy that Al passed away on June 19, 2019.  Al retired from the Marine Corps as a Lt. Colonel and was a great friend of "B" Company, attending several reunions.  Al's obituary is here.

Bob Lange arranged to have flowers sent to Al's service from the funds remaining from the Ray Daley Remembrance.  Allan's son Troy sent a photo of the B Company Flowers for Allan at the Funeral Service June 28. Troy also said two active duty Marines attended for the playing of Taps and presentation of the Flag to Allan's family.

Al Bassett wrote: "I recall spending time with Allan at the reunion and him telling me how he recovered from a stroke as well as some funny stories from his time at Marine Barracks. He will be missed."

Bob De Luca sent this: "A few years ago Al made a tour to visit some of his USMC friends. We were lucky enough to have him in Houston for a day or two.

I remember one story in particular. When he arrived in RVN there were three other grunts reporting in at the same time. The major making assignments told them to come back the next morning. He also said one of them would be disappointed.

It was Al. The other three got rifle platoons. He got sentry dogs. Postscript: the other three were KIA. Fate is fickle.

Super nice guy."

Bulletin #90, Part 1 and Part 2

The 90th Bulletin was published in two parts.  Part I was sent in time for Armed Forces Day, May 18.  Part II is scheduled to be timely for Flag Day, June 14.  Both have updates on our Cruise Book Memorial Presentations - see the link above!

Bulletin #89 and Jay Reynolds

A Bulletin with updates on our Cruise Book Memorial Presentations and other news was published on March 28, 2019, identified as Volume XX, No. 1 

Returned email and USPS mail to Jay Reynolds resulted in an Google search inquiry that found his obituary from November 2017.  Old, but still unwelcome news.  Jay had a distinguished career as a judge and cowboy/rancher.  Read Judge Reynold's obituary here.

Bulletin #88

The "traditional" annual Bulletin was published in mid-December, numbered Vol XIX No 5.  It lists all members of TBS 1-67 with best known contact information. The Bulletin was revised twice with corrected contact data. 

The Bulletin also confirmed that Lands' End clothing and merchandise was still available with the TBS 1-67 50th Anniversary Reunion logo. Contact the email address at the bottom of this webpage for ordering details.

Bulletin #87

This Bulletin with the Commandant's Birthday Message was sent to all class members just prior to the November 10 Marine Corps Birthday. 

Bulletin #86

Sent to all class members in mid-September. It was revised twice in October and is now Version 2.4

Bulletin #85

Published in early May.

Bulletin #84

It wasn't planned, but this Bulletin was sent just before St. Patrick's Day, almost on a quarterly schedule.  It is numbered Vol XIX No 1.  Andy Vaart is recognized in the January 8, 2018 issue of "The New Yorker" in an article about his work as editor of the quarterly journal "Studies in Intelligence", published by the CIA.  Andy also told about a project to recognize deceased class member Matthew McKnight at Auburn and to find his lost officer's sword.   The Bulletin also highlights events from 1968, especially as it affected our classmates during the Tet Offensive.  The Bulletin will be revised as new or corrected contact data is received. 

Andy sent a report on the the March 29 ceremony for Matthew McKnight at Auburn High School

Andy's description and invitation to the event:

"Matt will be separately honored at a ceremony recognizing East Alabama Vietnam Veterans at Auburn High School with the presentation of a sketch portrait to the Auburn University Marine Officer Instructor, who will display it in a place of honor in the NROTC wardroom. (29 March, 1800)

I know at least a couple of us will be able to attend--I will go down, as a continuation of this project, which began with my visit in February for another, though similar, reason--the recognition of a Marine Captain Bob Hubbard, an Auburn NROTC grad. I also expect to have Dick Hulslander with me and possibly Jim Hulsey, up from Louisiana.

Unfortunately, as things stand, our Auburn grads will not be able to make it.

Perhaps most importantly, however--through Bob Lange's good offices--Matt's sister, Isobel Anderson, will be coming up from Florida for the event. We are planning a lunch and tour of the Auburn NROTC for her before the event on the evening of the 29th.

I'm writing this note to all of third platoon, with another invitation to attend and--knowing that will be hard or impossible for most--an invitation to offer any reflections you might have of Matt as a platoon mate."  See also:

https://auburnveteransproject.weebly.com/east-alabama-vietnam-veterans-welcome-home-ceremony.html

Bulletin #83

Once again, a "traditional" annual Bulletin was published in mid-December, numbered Vol XVIII No 5.  It lists all members of TBS 1-67 with good contact information. It was published as an attachment to an email to our classmates members with an email address. It was later USPS mailed to 5 of our classmates, who have not yet reported an email address. The Bulletin will be revised as new or corrected contact data is received. 

The Bulletin also confirms that Lands' End clothing and merchandise are still available with the TBS 1-67 50th Anniversary Reunion logo. Image below. Contact the email address at the bottom of this webpage for ordering details.

Bulletin #82

After a few months of gestation, this edition was sent to all classmates on September 16, 2017.  The Bulletin includes news of classmates affected by the Harvey and Irma storms and a status of Cruise books sent to libraries and other relevant institutions.

Bravo Company TBS 1-67 Memorial Plaque Project - Dedicated

The dedication ceremony was held on May 24. Photos and the dedication video are on the plaque webpage.

This class project was initiated and expertly managed from conception to production and funding by Hays Parks. Our classmates generously contributed to the installation and maintenance costs of the plaque.

Bulletin #81

Sent to all classmates on May 20, Armed Forces Day.

Bulletin #80

Sent to all classmates on April 17.

TBS 1-67 "B Company" Biography Book Project - May Update!

Andy Vaart reported that the book went to print on May 8. The firm delivery schedule will be determined very soon. In the meantime, sales remain open!  Contact me for details at tbs167@gmail.com  

Andy announced a call for book orders on April 6.  This was updated in a a Bulletin and email notice sent to all class members on April 17.

In mid-March, Andy Vaart sent news of initial inquiries to printers and publishers, for both hard and soft-cover versions of the cruise book.  Order and cost details should be known very soon!

On March 2, Andy provided a "final copy" of this book, with biographies of more than 140 class members.  This is a great accomplishment with credit due to Andy, Phil Norton and Bob Lange.  Andy is checking printing vendors for production and possibly mailing.  When costs and other details are known, all class members will be notified of the book's availability. 

Bravo Company TBS 1-67 Memorial Plaque Project - April Update

A dedication ceremony will be held on May 24. The plaque installation took place on April 6.  Photos and videos are on the plaque webpage.

This class project, more fully explained on this webpage, was expertly managed from conception to production and funding by Hay Parks. Our classmates generously contributed to the installation and maintenance costs of the plaque; the fund drive announced it met its goals on February 14.

"Installation" (not dedication) was scheduled for March 14, but postponed because of blizzard forecasts from New England to the Mid-Atlantic states.  This has not yet been re-scheduled.

Bulletin #79

The first Bulletin of 2017 was published at the end of January, numbered Vol XVIII No 1.  It has important updates on the memorial plaque and the biography book projects.  A recent tally shows that 44 of our classmates have not yet submitted a bio and six are "promised/pending"- the firm deadline for this is February 7!

Bulletin #78

The "traditional" annual Bulletin was published in mid-December, numbered Vol XVII No 9.  It lists all members of TBS 1-67 with good contact information. It was published by email to the members with an email address and will be USPS mailed a few days later to 12 of our classmates, either "newly/possibly located" classmates or those who have not yet reported an email address. The Bulletin will be revised as new or corrected contact data is received. 

Graduation - 1966

Fifty years ago - then we went our separate ways...

Reunion - 2016

With four prior Reunions as "practice", we got this one "just right"!  Nearly 50 of our class gathered in Fredricksburg VA, with spouses and friends.  The Reunion was themed for the 50th anniversary of our 1966 class - it was a grand event!  It was held between October 20-23.  Photos and stories will soon appear on a separate web page.  Dianna Cahn, a reporter for "Stars and Stripes" newspaper was at nearly all the Reunion events and wrote a great story, which appeared in the November 11 issue.  The issue also featured photos and profiles on several TBS 1-67 classmates.

Visit this web site again for the report!

At the Basic School, October 21, 2016 (photo by Elaine Zimmer Davis)

Bulletin #77

A Bulletin that reports on the TBS 1-67 B Company 50th Anniversary Reunion was scheduled to emailed in time for the Marine Corps Birthday.  It was USPS mailed a few days later to seven of our classmates and seven "newly/possibly located" classmates who have not yet reported an email address.

John Hickman, Tom Gleason and Ben Marshall

As many of us prepared for the 50th anniversary Reunion, we received news from John's care-giver that he passed away October 13, 2016.  There is an obituary and details of John's Marine Corps career and his life in Montana.

Research to assemble a biography book for the Reunion continues. This research discovered that two of our classmates had passed away unknown to any of us.  Thomas J. Gleason died on March 29, 2009.  Ben Marshall passed away in October, 1982.  There are links to more information on both of these Marines on the Deceased TBS 1-67 Classmates webpage.

Bulletin #76

The last regular Bulletin before the TBS 1-67 B Company 50th Anniversary Reunion was emailed on the last day of September with an October publication date, then it was USPS mailed a few days later to our 8 classmates who prefer a physical issue. With the Reunion less than 2 weeks away, all arrangements have been made, all systems are "go" and many of us are just days away from travel.

Bulletin #75

The September Bulletin was emailed on September 10, 2016 and was USPS mailed a few days later to our 8 classmates who prefer a physical issue. Check a new webpage for an article by Hays Parks on the history and background of the TBS 1-67 Challenge Coin.  Hays has managed the procurement for this Challenge Coin to be distributed at our 50th Anniversary Reunion.

Bulletin #74

A not-quite monthly pre-Reunion Bulletin was published at the end of July as the July-August edition.  It included news from a Reunion Committee meeting, an updated Reunion schedule and an announcement that Lt. Gen Ron Christmas, USMC (Ret.) would be our guest speaker at the Saturday banquet.  The Bulletin was emailed on July 31and mailed a few days later to our 9 classmates who prefer a physical issue. 

Bulletin #73

Another pre-Reunion monthly Bulletin was published, initially at the end of May and with modest revisions early in June by email and mailed on June 12-13 to our 9 classmates who prefer a physical issue. The Bulletin re-printed a list of our unlocated classmates with last known details about them.  

Bulletin #72

The Bulletin's May issue was published, on the monthly, special "pre-Reunion" schedule; by email on May 8. A few days later, it was sent by USPS to the 9 guys who prefer a physical issue.  

Bulletin #71

Our Bulletin is sticking with its monthly, special "pre-Reunion" schedule and was emailed on April 8. A few days later, it will be sent by USPS to the 9 guys who prefer a physical issue - one more has joined the email team!  The Bulletin reminded class members that we have a "live" link for the 50th Reunion registration and for logo items from Lands' End. These shirts, caps, etc. can be ordered if there is no commitment yet to attend the Reunion.  Just after the mailing, another classmate was "found"!  See our Authors webpage for new about Bob De Luca's new book, "Pact With the Devil".

Bulletin #70

Another Bulletin with Reunion and other news was emailed on March 9 and a few days later sent by USPS to the guys who prefer a physical item.  The Bulletin reminded class members that we have a "live" link for the 50th Reunion registration.  Just after the mailing, another classmate was "found"!

Bulletin #69

The first Bulletin of 2016 was emailed on February 6 and a few days later sent by USPS to the guys who prefer a physical item.  Important news in this issue was a "live" link for the 50th Reunion registration and an updated Reunion schedule.  Much to do between now and October, so check this webpage or the (semi non-public) Reunion webpage for news.

Bulletin #68

Once again, we published a "traditional" annual Bulletin in mid-December, numbered Vol XVI No 5,  which listed all members of TBS 1-67 with good contact information. It was published by email to the members with an email address and USPS mailed on or about December 21 to all the guys with unknown email addresses. The Bulletin was revised as new or corrected contact data was received.  The Bulletin included links to the 50th Reunion webpage which has fresh data.

Bulletin #67

A Bulletin published at the end of October provided a few updates on the 50th Reunion, including a link to a special Land's End website where shirts, caps and other merchandise can be ordered with our custom "B" Company 50th Anniversary logo. The Bulletin also included the Commandant Robert B. Neller's message for the 2015 Marine Corps Birthday, a bio of the new Commandant and an announcement that former Commandant General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. was appointed Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Maryland has a "Welcome Home Viet Nam Veterans Day"

Our classmate, Maryland State Senator John Astle was requested by a local hospice organization to introduce a bill which would designate March 30, 2015 as "Welcome Home Viet Nam Veterans Day".  John reported that after introduction of the Senate Bill, a companion bill was introduced in the House. Both bills had every member as a co-sponsor. After passage, the Governor had a special signing with a number of invited veterans in attendance. Once the bills were signed, there was a ceremony at a local hotel with over 450 Viet Nam Veterans in attendance. John delivered the key note speech and said it was a very emotional event.  He said the hospice people are now working on a plan for 2016.

Bulletin #66

The August-September 2015 bulletin reported on the 50th Reunion in much detail, following a meeting my the Reunion committee in the DC. The webpage for this event was also updated after that meeting. As noted earlier, our Reunion will headquartered in Fredericksburg, VA during October 20-23, 2016.  "A" Company, TBS-167 will be holding their reunion in May, 2016.

Bulletin #65

The May-June 2015 bulletin focused on locating our "lost souls" classmates, with the number now down to 18 thanks to the diligence of Larry Karch and tips from others.  The Reunion committee will meet in June and the webpage for this event will be update after that meeting. 

50th Anniversary Reunion Activity

Our reunion committee has been working on hotel, hospitality and other arrangements - and memorabilia.  Larry Karch has made some good efforts to locate our class members who never were on, or have dropped off, our contact list.  These "lost souls" have now dropped to 19 guys!  

Bulletin #64

This February 2015 bulletin provided an update on planning for the 50th Reunion, scheduled for October 20-23, 2016 in Fredricksburg VA. Ace sleuth Bob Lange contacted four of our "missing" guys.  Hope to see all at the Reunion!

Bulletin #63

The "traditional" annual Bulletin, numbered Vol XV No 4,  listed all members of TBS 1-67 with good contact information. It was published on December 17, 2014 by email to the members with an email address.  The Bulletin included sections for our deceased fellow Marine classmates and those not located or have otherwise "gone missing". The Bulletin was revised as new or corrected contact data was received.  The Bulletin was mailed on or about December 21 to all the guys only with postal addresses but unknown email addresses.

Since the Bulletin was first published, three more classmates have been located due to the great efforts by Bob Lange.  Thanks, Bob!

Marine Corps Birthday & Bulletin #62

This Bulletin was e-published in PDF format on November 10 and sent to all class members with a current email address.  It included the Commandant's Marine Corps Birthday message, news of the retiring Commandant and an update on planning for our 50th reunion in 2016.  Printed copies were later mailed to the 14 members without a known email address

George Bershinsky

An email to George on September 11 resulted in this response: "George Bershinsky passed away July 24.  He always intended to come to a reunion, but time got him first."

See George V. Bershinsky for his obituary and a few photos.

Very sorry to hear this and condolences to his family and friends.

50th Reunion & Bulletin #61

A special Bulletin (#61) was published in September, 2014 by email to all and USPS to 15 class members.

It's more than two years away, but there is an initiative by Bob Lukeman of a different "67" class to plan and "all TBS X-67" class reunion for our 50th anniversary in 2016.  The idea has gained traction!

Early in July we got the following from Carl Carlsson:

“I am a member of TBS-366. http://usmc-thebasicschool-1966.com/ On 2 July 2014, we published an OCS/TBS networking page on FaceBook. Please take a look https://www.facebook.com/pages/MCB-Quantico-Basic-SchoolOCS/1466395810274139 Perhaps you can pass on the information to your fellow class members. We think the site will be a great place to post notices and happenings of your classmates.  Semper Fi, Carl Carlsson, (cell 727-771-9000, carlcarlsson@yahoo.com)"

Our DC area classmates have formed a 50th Reunion committee after a meeting in late July.  Another meeting is planned and we have an agenda!

Our Authors

In addition to Ord Elliott's book "The Warrior's Silence" described below, we have added an Authors webpage with information on books by Hon Lee and Bob DeLuca.  Check the webpage!

 Bulletin #60

This Bulletin was much delayed, but finally first published on June 21, 2014 by email to the members with a valid email address. The Bulletin was revised as news or corrected contact data was received and finalized on July 1.  The Bulletin will be be mailed during the July 4th weekend to all the guys with postal addresses but no email.   

Jim Orr

The website received this from Jim's son, Tim Orr on March 29:

"I'm sorry to have to share with you the news that my father, Jim Orr, passed away yesterday in Albuquerque, New Mexico.  I ran across your website and hoped you could pass this information to your classmates.

My father was very proud of the time he served in the Marines and I know he had the utmost respect and love for the men he served with.

As his passing was sudden and unexpected, I do not yet have details on services for him.  Once arrangements are made I will let you know.  He is survived by two sons and two grandchildren.  My contact information (sent by email to class members). 

Best regards,
Tim Orr"

A brief obituary is here.  Jim was a graduate of the University of Colorado and was in MACS-3 and MACS-4.  He had located to Brazil for a few years before settling in Albuquerque.

This was received April 3 from Tim Orr:

"We've received several emails from other Marines who knew my father.  The support is greatly appreciated.  Here are the arrangement for your information and to share.  

The memorial service will be held at 10:30 on Saturday April 26 at:

French Funeral Home
1111 University Blvd. NE
Albuquerque, NM 87012

505-843-6333

Flowers may be sent there, or in lieu of flowers, a donation made to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation (www.mcsf.org / 703-549-0060), or to your favorite charity.

Internment will be at a later date at the Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon."

Ron Hellbusch wrote that he met Jim in the fall of 1962 when they were both young enlisted Marines who were stationed in Boulder, Colorado as freshmen at the University of Colorado as part of the Naval Enlisted Scientific Education Program (NESEP).  Both were single at the time; Ron was from Columbus, Nebraska and he remembers Jim being from Corvallis, Oregon.  Ron met Jim's wife, Jeannie after they were married and she came back to the campus with him. Ron recalled watching Jim at the baseball practice field and some of the baseball games when Jim was on the University team. Ron wrote they had some good times at UC during those four years; and remembered the day they graduated in June of 1966.  He wrote that Jim looked very sharp in his dress whites as they were commissioned as Marine officers and Jim received an award as the top Marine NESEP graduate.  After six months at Basic School in Quantico, Jim went on to Marine Air Control training and Ron entered the flight training program.  Ron thinks they were in Vietnam at the same time in the 1968-1969 timeframe and did contact each other a couple of times over the years; primarily through the Company B TBS Class 1-67 Association.

Tim Orr confirmed Jim was in Vietnam in 68-69 serving on Monkey Mountain in Da Nang with MACS-4 as an Air Director/Weapons Controller.  And:

"He resigned from the Marines soon after returning from Vietnam and went into a long career in IT Management with the likes of CalFed, Blue Cross and Raytheon.  He retired about 10 years ago and moved around a bit before finally settling down in Albuquerque.  We had lived in Las Cruces, NM for awhile when I was a kid when he worked for Hughes Aircraft on contract at White Sands Missile Range."

 Bulletin #59

The "traditional" annual Bulletin listing all members of TBS 1-67 with known and current contact information, was published on December 13, 2013 first by email to the members with a valid email address.  The Bulletin includes separate sections for our deceased fellow Marines and those we have not located or have otherwise "gone missing". The Bulletin is revised as new or corrected contact data comes in.  The Bulletin will be be mailed before December 20 to all the guys with postal addresses but no email.  

Bulletin #58

This Bulletin was published online and notices sent to all class members in early November.  It included the Commandant's Marine Corps Birthday message and a report on the October reunion by "A" Company in San Diego. As expected, it was very well-organized and the two "B" Company guests had a great time at the BBQ.  There was same discussion of an "all 1-67" reunion. A planning session was later suggested well before 2016, which will be our fiftieth anniversary year.

Jack Glasgow

On October 21, we sadly learned of Jack's passing from his daughter, Sara. Jack was a retired Colonel who edited the Marine Corps Gazette between 2000 - 2006.  He was a great help to our reunions and all B Company activities.  He will be greatly missed.  We have a webpage for Jack which has remembrances from his TBS classmates and some details about his Gazette editorship. 

This webpage also show the seven TBS 1-67 members who attended Jack's interment ceremonies: Hon Lee, Nate Wong, Woody Sadler, Mike Wholley, Larry Karch, Hays Parks and Ken Burns.  We appreciate their efforts to show this respect for Jack.  Nate Wong, Jack's NROTC classmate from Cornell, flew in from Honolulu.

"A" Company Reunion

The contemporaneous "A" Company had a multiday reunion in San Diego, October 17-20, 2013.  Jim Scott and Bob Schmitt attended the Thursday BBQ and were impressed by the thoroughness of their records and and the organization of their biographies.  We were less impressed to hear they frequently referred to our group as "Betty Company" in 1966!  In good time we'll think of a snappy retort.

Bulletin #57

This Bulletin was published online and notices sent to all class members in mid-September.  The news included a planned October reunion by "A" Company in San Diego.  This group are masters of organization and will undoubtedly have a great turnout and series of events.  After the Bulletin, we added one more guy to the "located" group!

Bulletin #56

This Bulletin - and an update - were published online and notices sent to all class members during the Memorial Day weekend, May 24-27.  Too long since the last Bulletin! It included a list of all the class members who were lost in Vietnam and requested remembrances of our lost class members from all who knew them - perhaps for future publication. The Bulletin will be mailed before June, to all the other guys with only a street address.  June 2013 will be the 47th anniversary of our "assembly" in Quantico, VA.

Bulletin #55

Our annual Bulletin listing all members of TBS 1-67 with known and current contact information, was published on December 14, first by email to the members with a valid email address.  The Bulletin included separate sections for our deceased fellow Marines and those we have not located or have otherwise "gone missing". Bulletin revisions are made as corrected address data comes in.  The Bulletin is scheduled to be mailed on or about December 21, to all other guys with contact data.  

Dave Martin

This is from Dana Martin on November 23:

"David fought a good fight but he lost the battle Tuesday evening 10:56 on November 20, 2012.  Just wanted you folks to know, Dana"

Dave's obituary from the Washington Post is here and a photo of him in Chu Lai is also on that page.  We were both in NROTC at Notre Dame and went down the same training path through Pensacola and Glynco to get our wings as RIOs.  Dave was also at Chu Lai, eventually becoming the "O" Club officer.  He was very generous with his time whenever we visited DC - both when he was in Congress and also afterwards - and was always fun to be with especially at our reunions.  He will be greatly missed.  Our sympathies to Dana and his family.

A later notice:

The family will receive friends in West Virginia on Monday, Nov. 26 from 3 to 5 p.m. and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Brown Funeral Home, South Berkeley Chapel in Inwood, WV. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held the following day, Tuesday, Nov. 27 at 11 a.m. at St. Bernadette Catholic Church in Hedgesville, WV with Father George Pucciarelli, celebrant. 

The family will also receive friends in Northern New York on Monday, Dec. 3 from noon to 8 p.m. at the O’Leary Funeral Home in Canton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held the following day, Tuesday, Dec. 4 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Canton with Father Douglas Lucia, celebrant. Congressman Martin will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, 909 N. Washington St., Suite 400, Alexandria, VA 22314 and/or The Wounded Warrior Project, 1120 G Street NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 2005.

Bulletin #54

This Bulletin was published online on October 23 and updated November 9.  It includes The Commandant's Birthday Message for the Marine Corps' 237th Birthday and news of a book and an article by two TBS class members.  See the next item for Ord's book.

Ord Elliott's Book

Classmate Ord Elliott released his book, "The Warrior's Silence", available from his website or from Amazon  Recommended!

Massachusetts Mini-Reunion

Tom Thompson sent photos of himself, Bill Sheridan and Roger Hunt at a 100th Anniversary celebration of Marine Aviation in August.

Presidential Proclamation on RVN

We missed this document on the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War when it was published, but since it kicks off a long period of remembrance, it will remain relevant for a long time.  If the image below is too small for you to read, click it for a much larger version.  Thank you, President Obama.

Also note there is a website for the 50th Anniversary Commemoration.

Kathy Wholley

We were very sad to learn of Kathy's passing on April 8.  Many of us knew her well since her marriage to Mike during Basic School.  An obituary is here, a personal note from Alex Welch is here.

Mike wrote:

She was a beautiful person, a wonderful mother, an outstanding teacher, and a source of inspiration to all who watched her struggles with this terrible disease these past six years. Her courage, indomitable spirit, consistent cheerfulness and inner strength of character were palpable. She was my muse, my best friend, my wingman, my moral compass and my love.

Bulletin #53

Another brief Bulletin was published March 28 by email and will be sent by USPS in a few days.  The primary story is an "All Marine Phantom Squadron" reunion planned for November.  See VMFA-314.com for details.

Herman Little

Our email to Herman about Bulletin 53 received a reply from his law firm that Herman passed away March 4, just a few weeks ago. This is his obituary, which notes his Marine Corps service.  Our condolences to his family and co-workers.

Lt Col Edward J. Connelly Jr.

This is NOT our classmate Ed Connelly!   A older Ed Connelly, last at the William F. Halsey, Jr Leadership Academy (Elizabeth HS, Elizabeth NJ) was reported deceased in May 1, 2011 by his good friend at the Academy, MSgt Robert Geralds (Ret).  Chuck Vogt wrote that he was with Ed in H&S Company, 3/23, San Bruno CA, 1969-70.  His obituary is here.  

Bulletin #52

The traditional, annual Bulletin listing all members of TBS 1-67 with known and current contact information, was published on December 16, first by email to the members with a valid email address.  The Bulletin included separate sections for our deceased fellow Marines and those we have not located or have otherwise "gone missing". Bulletin revisions are made as corrected address data comes in.  The Bulletin was mailed just after December 20, to all other guys with contact data.  

Bulletin #51

Published on November 7, by email notice to all our guys with a valid email.  USPS mail will go out on or about November 23.

The Reunion and Bulletin #50

Both happened on schedule!  Our 45th Anniversary Reunion at the Marines' Memorial Club and Hotel in San Francisco took place September 6-12.  It was great and a partial story was in Bulletin #50, sent by email on September 19.  This is/was us:

 

Shortly after the reunion, we made a long-planned trip to France.  On the road from Reims to Paris, we visited the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery and the nearby Marine Memorial in Belleau Wood:

The accounts of the heroic battles here in June and July, 1918 by the Marines and US and French army forces show how they stopped a massive German offensive.  Two quotes came from these actions - one by Marine Captain Lloyd W. Williams of the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines who retorted when urged to retreat by the French heading towards the rear: "Retreat? Hell, we just got here!"  And a few days later when the Allies started an offensive action, Gunnery Sergeant Dan Daly prodded the Marines of his 73rd Machine Gun company forward: "Come on, you sons of bitches, do you want to live forever?"

Bulletin #49

The final Bulletin before the Reunion was published by email on August 21.  The count for our 45th Reunion in San Francisco (September 6-12, more or less) is basically the same.  We are in The Regimental Room for a banquet on Friday, September 9.  More news as it develops...

We've ordered polo and crew-neck shirts for the Reunion and will have a second order in the middle of September.  Colors are red and navy blue; the prices to date are "average" and will depend on the total quantities, to amortize artwork, screen and setup costs.  Keep in touch!

Bulletin #48

A double-length Bulletin (compared to the prior issue) was published by email on July 19.  The count for our 45th Reunion in San Francisco (September 6-12, more or less) is 21 class members and their spouses, friends, etc. No one will be turned away, but our headquarters and preferred Marines' Memorial Club & Hotel is full; email them or us for other nearby recommendations.  We are in The Regimental Room for a banquet on Friday, September 9.  More news as it develops! 

Bulletin #47

A very brief Reunion-status Bulletin was published by email on June 23.  As noted below, "B" Company has firm plans for their 45th Reunion in San Francisco over the days September 6-12.  We will headquarter at the Marines' Memorial Club & Hotel and have reserved The Regimental Room for  banquet on Friday, September 9.  Chuck Vogt, Andy Vaart, John Metschan and Kevin Trainor are assisting with planning for activities: golf, baseball,  personally-conducted walking tours.  The early dates and activities - Tuesday through Sunday - will be optional/informal - we will enjoy San Francisco, the hotel hospitality and old friendships!  As on June 28, we have 19 class members and their spouses, friends, etc. committed to the Reunion.  No one will be turned away, but bring a sleeping bag if you have delayed making hotel reservations!

Bulletin #46

Reunion updates were the prime feature in this issue, sent by email on May 18.  Deposits are due by June 30 - contact me for details!

Reunions for 2011, 45th anniversary of both Alpha and Bravo Companies; Bulletins #44 and 45

Bulletin #45 was emailed out on April 12 with minor updates on the B Company Reunion, as below. A week later, it was mailed to 20 guys without an email address.  The Bulletin also included news of the Alpha Company Reunion, May 11-15, 2011 in Fredericksburg, VA.  Check their group photo on TBS167.com/A-Company  Also, effective July 26, "A Company" will "own" a new sub-domain:  A.TBS167.com  We expect them to fill up many web pages with news, photos, etc.

The Reunion had a great turnout! Alpha Company had located all their members except one and has started on our missing guys - tremendous! A careful look at records shows we never had, or lost contact with, 29 of our classmates.

"B" Company has put a stake in the ground for a reunion in San Francisco over the days September 6-12.  We will headquarter at the Marines' Memorial Club & Hotel and have reserved a banquet room for Friday, September 9.  Chuck Vogt, a former long-time San Francisco resident, has suggested a "slew" of activities from golf, to baseball to personally-conducted walking tours.  The suggested dates and activities - Tuesday through Sunday - will be optional/informal and intended to strike a balance between desires to see typical tourist locales and renew old friendships. An "alert" to all class members will be emailed on January 21.

Results of emails and post-office mailings of Bulletin No. 43 show bad contact data for two classmates, John Hamilton (Harvard and Newton MA) and Tom Nalls (George Washington and Leesburg VA).  If you know where John and Tom have moved, contact me.

Bulletin No. 43, Reunion 2011 and a "Find"!

The traditional, annual Bulletin listing all members of TBS 1-67 with known and current contact information, was published on December 13, first by email to the 107 members with a valid email address.  Bulletin revisions are being made as corrected address data comes in.  The Bulletin will be mailed in part, December 20, to all other guys with contact data.  As of December 18, 83 classmates have acknowledged the Bulletin by email.

Reunion voting shows the Marines' Memorial in San Francisco leading Washington D.C. as the site for the proposed 2011 reunion by 25 to 15, with a slight favor for a September time.  This is our working assumption; we have a great response with open dates from the Marines' Memorial Club.  Stay tuned for details - watch for email and special Bulletins!

Another classmate located, through his son, Major Tom Wood.  His father is Dan(a) Wood, in Temecula. I'll mail him a Bulletin.  Thanks, Major Wood! 

Here's something really unique - the photo speaks for itself, courtesy of Marshall DeLuca (Bob's son) who collected it while working in that area:

235th Marine Corps Birthday and Bulletin No. 42

TBS 1-67 Bulletin No. 42 was published on November 9 with a web link to all class members with an email address.  If you are a class member reading this and did not get the announcement, contact me for a copy.  We also need your input on a reunion!  

This Volume XI, No 1 requested a final vote on Reunion 2011 location and date - Washington DC and Marines Memorial in San Francisco are the final choices and "anytime but summer 2011" and the time alternatives.

The Bulletin included the Commandant's Birthday Message and an essay by Lt. Col. David W. Szelowski USMCR (ret.)

Our next Bulletin will be out in 2-3 weeks and will include contact information for all class members, if known.

Reunion 2011 and New Books

I may have been the last person to get "the word" about a highly-reviewed novel about Vietnam and an 03's experience on the northwest border.  I finally read "Matterhorn" and was both very impressed and very glad my RVN experience was flying out of Chu Lai.  The author, Karl Marlantes, was a speaker at the Marines Memorial Club at the end of September.

Shortly after finishing "Matterhorn", I received an email from Jack Wells, a member of TBS 6-67 and the author of "Class of '67".  His Basic School class had graduated 498 guys and had 43 members KIA in Vietnam, the most for any Basic School class since the Korean War.  Amazon seems to be the best source to get this book.  Here's the book jacket.

As noted below, we have an active web page to collect votes and comments for a possible 2011 reunion; the link to that page is in Bulletin No. 41 and available to all 1-67 guys.  As of "Discovery/Columbus Day", Marines' Memorial in San Francisco leads Washington DC/Quantico 118 to 103.  "A" Company is planning a Washington DC reunion for May.   Yet to be determined is how to settle on the date and location.

Bulletin No. 41 and Reunion 2011?

The Bulletin was send by email on August 11.  85 class members have acknowledged receipt to date.  Two emails have been returned, likely indicating a new email address.  Starting on August 27, the Bulletin will be mailed to the 21 guys with an email address, but no response, and the 23 class members who have not reported an email mail but have only a known postal address.

Since the last Bulletin, we've heard from many of this class of TBS and did see Dr. Nate Wong in Honolulu in May.  Nate asked the question: "will there be a Reunion in 2011?"  We have started the discussion with an announcement in the Bulletin, which has a link to a web-based spreadsheet for class members to choose site preferences and offer other suggestions.  Marines' Memorial in San Francisco and Washington DC are neck-and-neck in the voting currently with 19 voters.

Bulletin No. 40

The annual roster, listing all members of TBS 1-67 with known and current contact information, was published on December 7, 2009 by email to 106 classmates and sent to all other guys with contact info on December 18 - 130 in total.  It's marked as Volume X, No. 3. If you were in this TBS class and did not get a Bulletin, send me an email.  If any information was wrong, send me updates. Yes, this was the 40th Bulletin, first published in 1995.

Bulletin No. 39

This Bulletin, Volume X No. 2, was posted to this website and notices sent by email on November 5, 2009 with the Commandant's Birthday message, other Birthday greetings and news. The Bulletin was mailed to all contacts without email. The total mailing was to 129 guys. If you ddid not get one and think you should, email me. If you were in this class, send updates and news!

Andy Vaart sent a report and photos from Arlington on November 11:

Happy Birthday to all (I'm a bit tardy, sorry). I've attached four scenes from a visit to Arlington today--as I stopped by to visit the resting places of Tom King and Tom Wall, and Jerry Zimmer's memorial stone. Happened to be there at the same time as the President. Somber day--given recent events - and somber weather. Semper fi, Andy

Bulletin No. 38

An issue with the Memorial announcement (below) was published on July 31, 2009 by email to 104 guys.  It's marked as Volume X, No. 1. Mailed copies were sent, starting August 6. If you don't get one and think you should, email me. If you were in this class, send updates and news now!

Jerry Zimmer Memorial, August 20, 2009

Report from Hays Parks (August 22):

"...I assume you saw the e-mail a while back about the memorial service for Jerry Zimmer, and reference to the article by his wife, Elaine, in the June 2009 issue of Leatherneck.

The memorial service was this past Thursday.

Never have the Marines done better. The drive through Arlington was long, in all likelihood because we had to depart the reception center to provide the room to others attending a later service, and we in turn were in a holding pattern to permit another service to conclude and depart our memorial service location.

En route, at each intersection stood a lone Marine, resplendent in dress blues, saluting. It was a typically hot and humid Washington summer day. You could not tell it by looking at these Marines. By this act they -- and our Corps -- was saying 'We honor our lost fellow Marine. We may not know him, and his body may not be here, but that does not matter. He is one of ours who gave all.'. I was glad I was alone in my car. I was in no condition to talk.

Arriving at the memorial service site and emerging from my car, I was moved by the sounds of the Marine Drum and Bugle Corps playing the slow, mournful version of the Marine Corps Hymn. I walked slowly to the pace of the music to stand at attention next to Bill Hatch.

Standing before us was the Drum & Bugle Corps, a platoon of 8th & Eye Marines, a color guard, six Marines holding an outstretched American flag over a patch of ground, a Marine standing nearby with the MIA flag, and a Navy chaplain.

The service followed the program for a funeral at Arlington, including presentation of the smartly- folded flag to Elaine, the volley of shots, followed by Taps. It differed in that there was a headstone in memory to Jerry, to which we all turned.

If you have read Elaine's article, you'll know this was not closure. The search for Jerry's remains is still on-going and, thanks to the persistence of Elaine and others, may be closer to success than previously thought possible. But Thursday's memorial service meant a great deal to those who were able to attend.

Over the years I have attended probably close to a hundred funerals at Arlington National for friends, brothers-in-arms, and relatives. None touched me as deeply as did Thursday's memorial service for Jerry. And never has being a Marine meant so much, witnessing the professionalism the uniformed Marines displayed for a Marine whose remains still lay in the soil of that country in which we served four decades ago.  To the Marines of the color guard, Eighth & Eye, and the D&B, it did not matter. Their actions spoke louder than any words, saying, 'He is with us, and we honor him and his sacrifice'.

Semper Fidelis,

Hays"

We received an email invitation, sent to all TBS 1-67 email addresses, in May:

"You have been invited by Craig Zimmer & Elaine Zimmer Davis to CAPT JERRY A ZIMMER, USMC, MEMORIAL SERVICE.   We hope you will join our family as we pay tribute to Capt Jerry A Zimmer, USMC, on the 40th Anniversary of his death in Vietnam, Aug. 29, 1969.  Please visit the EVENT WEB PAGE (http://event.pingg.com/JerryZimmerTribute) for more details and a URL on the web page linked to Jerry's website.  We hope to see you at the service.

ELAINE & CRAIG

Date: Thursday, August 20th, 2009 - 12:30pm

Location: Arlington National Cemetery & Reception at Fort Myer Officers Club."

Bulletin No. 37

The annual roster, listing all members of TBS 1-67 with known and current contact information, was published on December 17, 2008 by email to 104 guys.  It's marked as Volume IX, No. 4. Send updates now!

Bulletin No. 36

This Bulletin, Volume IX No. 3, was sent by email on November 7, 2008 with the Commandant's Birthday message, other greetings and news. The revised bulletin was posted on November 21 and then mailed to all contacts without email or an unacknowledged email address. The total mailing was to 129 guys. Later messages brought the email contacts to 104 of the 129 - excellent! 

Four TBS "alumni" assembled at the Flying Leathernecks Museum, MCAS Miramar on November 15.  It was great to see Ron Hellbusch, Skip Curtis and Jim Scott.

Bulletin No. 35

This Bulletin, Volume IX No. 1, was sent by email on July 31, 2008. There was a revised bulletin posted on August 15, which was then mailed to all contacts without email or an unacknowledged email address.  The total mailing was to 129 guys.   

Memorial Bricks at the National Museum of the Marine Corps

Mission Accomplished!

From Andy Vaart:

We accomplished the mission today: In formation were: Mike Wholley, Hays Parks, Dave Martin, Al Buescher, John Pope, Hon Lee, Dick Hulslander, and me.

I delivered checks from 38 people to cover the cost of 31 bricks - 27 in tribute to our deceased brothers and four others, one simply identifying B Company and saying Semper Fidelis, one dedicated to the Marines We Led, another to All Fallen Marines, and one to Those Who Made Marines of Us.

Ron Christmas gave a rundown about the next phase of construction, including a chapel, trail system, which our bricks will adorn, children's playground, new entry way, possible office building for Marine associations - there are many - and a hotel, set up in partnership with some commercial organization.

We retired to Tun Tavern in the museum to enjoy a lunch at the bar and generally felt like we were home.

Images below.

Andy

Click on images below for full-size photo

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At Tun Tavern

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"What a distinguished bunch of Marines. "

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"You lookin' at the same gaggle I'm lookin' at ????"


"With one exception.  Some drunk aviator kept stepping in front of me claiming to be the world's best fighter pilot...."

Andy further reported:

Hon and I took John Pope and Dick Hulslander to visit the classroom in TBS with our sand tables. The two officers we encountered while there, one the OOD (a First Lieutenant) and one a third lieutenant, with not the least bit of a hint, emphatically thanked us for the tables and told us about their frequent use. That felt good to hear--and I have to say again, it's hard to imagine we looked as good as they do at that point in our lives. Someone tell me we did!

Background

In October 2007, Hays Parks suggested a new memorial project for our class members by email:

"The Marine Corps Museum is expanding (long planned), and is selling more bricks.  They're 300 dollars each. The bricks line the sides of the sidewalk.

I'd like to see a brick for each of our KIA/MIA classmates, perhaps resting next to one another,  with name and "B Co. TBS 1-67," perhaps also with 'KIA Viet Nam (and date)'."

All members with email have been contacted and early response was very good by the end of November.  Contact Hay Parks or Andy Vaart (see your contact list for email or phone numbers) for more information and current status of this project.

All who want be in this project should send their checks, made out to the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, to Andres Vaart. Andy will consolidate the checks and deliver them with Hays to the Foundation so that these bricks can lie in an honored B Company formation when the installation takes place - another year or more. Andy and Hays will also work with the Foundation to get letters to the givers for their tax purposes next year.

Update

In early February, Andy announced:

Gentlemen:

I believe we have reached the collection intermediate objective in this operation. The results are attached.

We are good for 26 bricks, five of them in tribute to or memory of groups: All Fallen Marines, All B Co. Deceased, B Co. Wounded, B Co. Families, and Marines We Led.

Please look over and make sure, if you can—Hays, I know you are on the road--that I have got it right. I’ve completed forms for all the stones, but they are easily changed if you think something ought to be different or if I have missed someone or misspelled something (a major fear on my part).

Many thanks and Semper fi,

Andy

And on February 13, there was a plan!

Gentlemen,

I’ve rolled the Date Dice again to try to get a few more to a presentation of our checks to the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation for the memorial brick project. Photographer will be present. I hope I haven’t lost anyone from the first go round.

Gen. Christmas will meet with all of us who can make it on 18 March at 1100 in his office in Dumfries (address to follow, though it is on the MCHF Web site). From there, those of us with the time—I hope all—will decamp for the Museum and Tun Tavern for lunch and leisurely first visit or revisit.  Our delegation will be led by the inspiration for this project, Hays Parks, and our senior officer, Mike Wholley.  I will assign seats in Gen. Christmas’ conference room—just kidding, I know you are not that easily managed.

All from out of town are more than welcome: I could accommodate at least two in our home in Reston. Perhaps others can help, as well.

Carpool arrangements highly encouraged.

Please let me know if you are on board. This IS the date and time, unless Gen. Christmas develops a conflict.  

Semper fi,

Andy

Thanks Andy for a great job and to Hays for a great idea!

Bulletin No. 34

This Bulletin, Volume VIII No. 3, was sent by email on December 18, 2007. Revised bulletins were posted daily until a mailing started in late December.  The total mailing went to 129 guys. Happy Holidays to all!  

Bulletin No. 33

This Bulletin, Volume VIII No. 2, was sent by email on July 9, 2007. A revised, final Bulletin edition was published on July 13 and sent as follows: 73 delivered and acknowledged by email, 52 sent by USPS mail. Of these, 23 guys have/had an email address, but not acknowledged, so these will be mailed also. There are 125 B Company members on contact list, but we still don't have contact information on 32 guys.

The TBS 1-67 Memorial Dedication, February 12, 2007

From Andy Vaart:

The dedication took place as scheduled on 12 Feb. The sand tables in oak and ash glory were there, built on solid steel frames with wheels. Eight approximately 10x12 tables were completed, along with one triply large and low-level one. Photos will be on our website soon.

In attendance from B Company were Larry Gerlach, Larry Karch, Mike Wholley, Hays Parks, Dave Martin, Bill Hatch, Ken Burns, Hon Lee, John Astle, and I.

Attending from TBS were the CO, Col. Royal Mortenson, the XO, Lt Col(?) Geracoulis (who hosted us last June),  members of the staff and two platoons from Foxtrot Company, the senior class on deck (though senior is a relative term). The group looked young, and it was, but I was told later that about a third of them had prior enlisted service--and most likely combat duty.

Hon Lee was the duty photographer, and I'll post his photos as soon as I can. In the meantime, the following is the dedication speech I gave. I hope it adequately reflects the feelings of all those who contributed to this effort.

Alert Notice:

Situation: Young Marines learning their craft and culture and past Marines, still learning, will gather on February 12 to dedicate the spirit of the Corps as reflected in the service and sacrifice of the officers of B Company, TBS 1-67.

B Company Mission:

Show the young how we remember our comrades and how we care about our successors.

Execution:

  • Gather at Heywood Hall, by 1115 on 12 February.

  • Assemble in Heywood Hall, Classroom 4 for 1130 Dedication

  • 1200 to 1300 Lunch with 2nd Lts. Location TBS

  • 1300 Free time - for visit to USMC Heritage Center for those with the time. Visit with CIA rep turned out not feasible on this date.

Administration:

  • Uniform of the day: dress appropriate for the moment: business suits or sports jackets (with or without tie).

  • Carpooling is encouraged (I'll be making a couple of calls to help facilitate) although parking spaces will be set aside for enough cars if only two or three of us share rides.

  • Communication: AV cell phone: 703-869-2690.

  • TBS POC is Public Affairs Officer Major Jennifer Goodard 

The Main Table

Build Crew and WO Crew Leader

The Presentation

Background:

At the end of the June reunion, there was unanimous consent of the reunion group to use the $1,200 surplus of operating funds as a start towards a memorial to our class at the Basic School.  Andy Vaart took the lead on this project and after discussions with the basic School leadership, the group and later with the Marine Corps University Foundation, a very short (3 week) fund drive kicked off.  The goal was $6,000 for 6 "sand tables" to aid tactical training.  Very quickly, we had a surplus and Andy reported:

"Seeing nearly unanimous approval for passing the money to the Marine Corps League's Hospital Program, I sent $2,500 to the Marine Corps League and another $250 to the related Heart of a Marine Foundation, which provides orthopedic canes to Marines, soldiers, and sailors in need of them--the standard-issue "candy" cane is inadequate for many who have suffered injuries to their hands as well, and the USG won't provide them for some bureaucratic reason. I've attached PDFs of the letters I sent with the checks. 

Here are the final numbers:

  • 44 B company members gave $10,000 (including our original $1,200 surplus)

  • 6,500 to Marine Corps University Foundation for sand tables. Ceremonial issues being discussed.

  • $2,500 to Maryland Department of the Marine Corps League for its Hospital Program.

  • $250 to the Heart of a Marine Foundation."

Thanks to all!

Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund

John French wrote in mid-December:

"You might be interested to hear that I have become very involved with a group called Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund.  It raises money to help families of the seriously wounded Marines visit their sons/husbands etc. in the hospitals.  Healing needs to have the family close by and most enlisted families can't afford housing and food.  The Fund has been so successful that the mission has been expanded to include buying  things like wheelchairs and vans etc for the wounded.  I have really liked connecting with this group especially the wounded Marines themselves."

Thanks John - sounds like a worthy project for other to check out.

Bulletin No. 32 (and 31)

The annual "all hands" list issue, #32, was sent by email on December 2 and will be mailed on December 8, or close to then.  Bulletin #31 was a short update on the TBS Memorial fund drive - if you missed the opportunity to contribute, we're planning to set up an account for on-going projects, so contact Andy Vaart.

Tom Wall - 2006

Just three weeks after we left each other at the Reunion, our cheerleader extraordinaire, Tom Wall, left us all.  He promised us a great ceremony at Arlington and it's scheduled for July 24.  A message from Marybeth and photos of Tom are here.  Andy sent the following on July 11:

All,

For those of you who can find the time to make it to Arlington to participate in Tom Wall's interment, the following is some detail. I intend to be there, and for anyone coming from the western Fairfax County area, I'm happy to sweep up participants on the way in. Just give me a call at 703-869-2690.

"TO: Friends of Tom Wall

FROM: Jacquie Ellis, Irvine Chamber of Commerce

DATE: June 26, 2006

RE: Services at Arlington National Cemetery

The Arlington National Cemetery service for our friend Tom Wall will be held on Monday, July 24, 2006 at 11:00 a.m.  Everyone attending is asked to report to the Administrative Service Building at 10:30 a.m., in your car.  The service will proceed from that point."

Semper fi,

Andy

40th Anniversary Reunion!

It was a great time for all who came to this Reunion in DC, at the Army-Navy Club, June 2 through 4, 2006.  Everything went like clockwork (from my perspective!) for the usual events, Parade at 8th & I, a bus trip to Quantico and the Vietnam Memorial, dinner, breakfast and farewells!  New events included a Thursday evening reception at the ANC and a tour of the Supreme Court.  Many thank to Andy Vaart, Woody Sadler, Chuck Vogt and Mike Wholley for the great planning and execution, especially for picking this new venue (See the announcement published by Andy).  Updates to the original plan were in Bulletin No. 29, mailed early May. We are still collecting stories and photos! From the early planning and the musically inclined, here's the music to an old Marine Corps tune. And an announcement of a change to Saturday's reception. Woody did a great job on the "rare" Reunion polo shirts and may still have a few to mail at a very good price.

Watch the mailbox for the next Bulletin and here's an advance look at Andy' collages (click for larger image):

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Eighth and I

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Reunion 2001

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Reunion 1996

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1st Platoon - Then and Now

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2nd Platoon - Then and Now

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3rd Platoon - Then and Now


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4th Platoon - Then and Now

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In Memoriam

Bulletin No. 30

This issue is being sent by e-mail on July 14, 2006 and will be followed a few days later by regular mail. Happy Bastille Day!

Bulletin No. 29

This issue had news about the reunion, classmates and the lyrics to the "Song of the Marines".  Make sure you know these for the reunion.  The Bulletin sent by e-mail on May 5, 2006, followed a few days later by regular mail.

Also, read the story from the Los Angeles Times about our very own Tom Wall.

Bulletin No. 28

An issue with holiday greetings and general news was sent by e-mail on November 10, 2005, followed a few days later by mailings from our "distribution net".  Thanks guys!  I was off enjoying the roads in New Zealand.

Bulletin No. 27

This is an "all-roster" issue and was completed on June 20.  The roster seems fairly well updated, even as new guys find us - such as Curt Twiddy, through Kathy, in mid-May. We also "re-located" Dan Phipps. The Bulletin was e-mailed on June 20 and copies by US mail were sent June 30-July 2.

Alan McLean

We lost our reunion chaplain and good comrade, Al McLean, on February 11, 2005. A link to news reports is below. Al will always be remembered and we've sent our sympathies to his wife, Betsy.

Al McLean's Passing

Mike White and the Tsunami

One of our classmates, Mike White, had his car rental business severely damaged by the Indian Ocean tsunami.  Here is Mike's email reply to an inquiry about his well-being:

Mike White email, January 4, 2005

Bulletin No. 26

It was finally sent in March, after a first draft in late December, but an attempt to include all recent news conflicted with travel and the delay was considerable. The Bulletin is not even an "annual"! But with only a year before intense planning must begin before the 40th Reunion, we'll expect more in 2005.

Bulletin No. 25

We barely got a single edition done during 2003 - mailed December 30!  This was primarily an updated roster of the entire class, with addresses and contact info for the 125 "still located" class members - sent by regular mail.  As soon as corrections seem to be complete - new email and regular addresses - a revised version will be sent as a "PDF" file to all known guys with email.

Bulletin No. 24

It missed all the forecasts, but Bulletin No. 24 was sent to all the guys just before Christmas.  Oh yeah, December 2002!

But there was sad news to report.  Jim Hadjuk sent a notice from the Purdue alumni news that Terry Bache passed away last Fall.  Further checking found that Terry's wife, a successful author, also mentions his passing on her web site, when writing about the publication of her book:

But the excitement of that good news was canceled out by Terry's sudden, unexpected death of a heart attack while on a hike in the South Carolina mountains. Shortly after that, Ellyn returned to live and work in her family home on the North Carolina coast.

Our condolences to Ellyn and Terry's family.

Bulletin No. 23

Shortly after the latest Bulletin hit the mail, our 35th reunion was recognized in the Marine Corps Gazette, December 2001 issue, in the article "TBS Reunion" by Hays Parks.  A very nice story which provided some tips for other TBS classes.  Thanks to Hays and Jack Glasgow, the Gazette editor!

The "all data, fall special" Bulletin, Volume 6, No. 1, was assembled by editor Bob, duplicated and mailed in mid-November by Tommy Thompson.  Again, much thanks to Tom!  We won't burden the post office until 2002. 

Really tremendous news about Richard Daerr - he was awarded a very much delayed Silver Star for heroism in May, 1967 while a platoon commander in the 3rd Marine Division.  The long delay was caused by records that were destroyed in Vietnam.  The award was made at Texas A&M University on September 14, 2001. Congratulations, Dick!

Bulletin No. 22

Another Bulletin was done by editor Bob, duplicated and mailed on July 24 by Tommy Thompson.  Much thanks to Tom and Mike Wholley for sending more than 100 digital photos from the Reunion, but who are all these people?!

35th Anniversary Reunion - It was great, or "Whoops, we did it again!"

The 38 of us who made the trek to Alexandria VA in June, 2001 are all back at home, making sense of the activities, stories and memories of "Reunion II".  And there are a few tales on this website already.  Our Reunion polo shirts were great - although we never agreed on the "color of the day" - and we now have a TBS emblem patch which will also be available for future shirt orders.  But on the adage that a "picture is worth a thousand words", take a look at:

Mike's Reunion Photos

and

Andy's Reunion Photos 

Andy Vaart reports:

"You'll hear much more from Bob Schmitt and others about our gathering this weekend. None of us regretted being there, and all of us missed those of you who could not make it. Everyone was grateful for the photos and bio clips many of you sent. I will use them as we pull together the cruise book--and I'm still open to submissions.

The troops who were there have begun thinking about Reunion III (a rumor of Hawaii is floating around) and hope you will, too. The link above will send you to a quick look at the B Company 35th Anniversary Reunion. Many more photos will follow in the days/weeks to come. But for now perhaps you will find those I've posted as rejuvenating as we found the experience. Semper fi!"

TBS-ReunionII.jpg (Digital photo from Mike Wholley)

Our 35th Anniversary Reunion - a group photo in the TBS Sand Room!

Click here for the story of Reunion II!

Our planning for Reunion II started on November 1, 2000, when Jack Glasgow announced: "I just had the pleasure of hosting a planning meeting for our 35th reunion. Present were Mike Wholley, Bob Lange, Andy Vaart, and yours truly. I have Hays Parks on the "addee" list,  because if he weren't on a trip today, he would be working with our Reunion Committee."  As of May 30, 2001, 37 deposits for Reunion II had been sent to Bob Lange - it looked like a great event was shaping up!

Bulletin No. 21

The final alert message on the 35th Reunion was sent out in Bulletin No. 21 on May 17, 2001 to 126 guys on the mailing list.  Russ Harrison checked in just in time to get recognized in this issue.

Before the end of May, we got a confirmed address for Terry Bache in South Carolina and Ed Eloe also called in from Colorado.  Welcome aboard!

Bulletin No. 20

Yes, hard to believe, but our Twentieth Issue mailed about the same time as my taxes, April 15.  How's that for multiprocessing?  It had more reunion news and many updates on our "alumni".  Also news that TBS member Number 120 has turned up, Gil Game in South Carolina.

Just a few weeks after this issue was mailed, Chuck Vogt had a friend research our list of the "missing alumni" and we made further contacts to 14 "possibles".  Five of these contacts have firmed up - Tom Drummond, Ron Laughlin, Ken Shumate, Jim Spinks and Phil Zeman.  We're waiting for phone calls or return mail from the other 9.  Thanks Chuck!

Bulletin No. 19

The first batch of this Bulletin was mailed February 26, 2001 and all 118 issues will be in the mail before March 1!  Our "located" count is up to 119 guys with the addition of a current address for Ed Lawrence.

Bulletin No. 18

Our apologies to the Post office, but the latest Bulletin was mailed on December 17 to 117 guys to send seasonal greetings and more news on the Reunion.  There were also a few new and/or changed addresses. And here is the first page - A Proper Marine Corps Christmas.

Just after this issue was put in the mail, I heard from Tom Pierpan with an address for Jim Orr, so his Bulletin is now heading to Kansas!

Bulletin No. 17

It was mailed to 115 guys on November 6-7 to announce that the Reunion will happen!  We heard from Tom Thomson, who sent along an address for Ed Michael and confirmed that Tom Crew, Walt Horsfall and Ed were in NROTC at Northwestern U.  Thanks for the updates, Tom!

A short time later, Bob Lange sent contact data for Dick Esler and he is now among our "located".  Bob, Dick & Russ Harrison are all Southern Cal alumni.

Bulletin No. 16

The "all data, summer special" Bulletin was sent by mail during the first week of August, 2000.  Thanks to some great tips from the guys with email, we added four more guys to the "located" list - and the lists linked below have been updated with miscellaneous bits of info about the guys located and still not found.

Since the initial mailing of No. 16 Bulletin, three more addresses have turned up - for Richard Daerr, Bob Hawks, and Lance Zellers.  Welcome to the "active" list!

Bulletin No. 15

Volume 4, No. 1 was mailed to 108 guys in early July, 2000.  This issue was primarily news about TBS 1-67 members, with only a few email addresses and other updated contact information.  The next issue (see above) was planned to be an updated roster, with addresses, phone and email for all known "B" Company members.

In this issue, the concept of "Reunion 2001" was surfaced.  It's hard to believe that four years have passed by since our 30th reunion.  Because the Reunion depends so much on leader(s)/coordinator(s), the location, date and events will probably be entirely up to the volunteer(s) who step up to this task - we have no organization, formal or otherwise!  However, contributions for the Bulletin and Reunion are welcomed!

Just a few days after this Bulletin was sent, Tom Wall was "re-located"!  The count is up to 109.

Bulletin No. 14

Volume 3, No. 2 was sent to 94 guys during the last days of December, 1999.  This issue was primarily news about TBS 1-67 members, including updated contact information.  There was also a story about Kevin Trainor's acquaintance with Earl Smith's young cousin, Joel Bate, and the family interest in hearing from those of us who remembered Earl.  His roommate in TBS, Cam Smith contributed his thoughts, as did Andy Vaart.   Kevin later wrote that the family appreciated our memories and writings.

Six weeks after the Bulletin was mailed, John Kaheny of "A" Company sent a note.  Through him, Chuck Vogt was located and we have a lead on Ross Reeves.  Thanks, John!

Right after that, we heard from Rich Hodory and were able to add 10 more names to the TBS contact list! The Bulletin was then mailed to check addresses for the following - if they pan out, that's 106 guys contacted, 55 to go!  The new contacts were:

Al Buescher, E.J. Connelly III, John Hickman, Glenn Hill, Dan Phipps, Larry Springer, Joe Thomas, Jim Turse, R. M. Zell and John Gordon Jr.

We later heard from Glenn Hill and Jim Turse.  Glenn is at the Marine Military Academy and reports that Bill Johnson is in Pennsylvania, so we hope to hear from him.  Jim is in New England, after many years in Honolulu.  Although we don't have a current address for Tom Wall, I've heard he's in Orange County (CA) and on the El Toro development committee.

Finally, in June, just as we started Bulletin No. 15, we heard from Mike White, now running a business in Thailand.  I must visit to scout locations for Reunion 2001!

Bulletin No. 13

Volume 3, No. 1 was mailed to 91 guys in July, 1999.  This was an "all addresses" issue that provided contact information for TBS 1-67 members. Since mailing No. 13, we received updates to the data in that Bulletin by e-mail and from the USPS.

Dave Taylor reported in by e-mail with a current Florida address and speculated that Pete Millichap is in Atlanta and Bob DeLuca in Texas.  We confirmed addresses for both.  We also have updated contact info from Larry Karch, Dick Hulslander, Walt Walsh, Ed Hinkle, Rich Hodory and Jim Henderson.  The web tables have been updated. Nice to hear from and about you guys!

Bulletin No. 12

We published a Bulletin in December, 1998. As a result of this issue No. 12, Dan Kuhn was located in Cincinnati and John Wegl in Alexandria.  Tom Nequette sent some promising leads for a few other guys.

Just after the 11th "B Company Bulletin" (the newsletter) was printed on April 3, 1998 another classmate was added to our roster, Rev. Alan McLean in Pine Bluff, AR. He and Jim McClung attended the 30th Anniversary Siege of Khe Sanh tour, March 10-23.  Soon after, Bob Lange forwarded John Oppenhuizen's current address in Yorktown. Great news!

94 copies of Bulletin No. 12 were sent out and three issues came back with outdated addresses. We don't have a current location for Tom Wall, Ed Lawrence or Richard Daerr.

30th Anniversary Reunion

Our 30th Anniversary Reunion banquet group photo!  A group photo and a link to other pictures from our 35th reunion is above.

TBS167-ReunionI.jpg (re-scanned, 7-4-2001)

Andy Vaart has copies of the 30th Reunion Cruise Book - contact him.

This web site will someday tell the story of "Reunion I" and more about our class, but currently we are providing a record of who has been located, who is yet to be found and our classmates who are no longer with us.  The "Cruise Book" for the 30th Reunion can be viewed or downloaded (a PDF file*) in three parts, Volume I , Volume II and (of course) Volume III.

In General

Please send me any news of TBS 1-67. Your submissions will be in the next issue of the Bulletin, planned between Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day, 2022.

Bob Schmitt

Contact me at tbs167@gmail.com

This page was last updated on January 21, 2024

 

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