L Company Ranger 101st ABN - LRRP's

[Satcong101]

Big shout here from the UK and the boys who portray the 'L Company Ranger' 101st ABN Lrrp's. 1969-70 is roughly the time period we represent, so lots of lime ERDL's, Tropical Rucksacks and we all wear Stabos!

 

Gary Linderer, veteran of F/58 and L/75 And a good friend to the group, was kind enough to comment on our group activites

"We are honoured by what you and your team mates have put together. Now, as our warrior bodies begin to break down, it is a treat to recall the way we used to be. Fortunately, our warrior minds are still intact. Carry on!"

 

Our group web site can be found here:

 

http://www.lcompanyranger.co.uk/

 

And

 

http://www.101lrrp.com

 

Unit History of L Company 75th Ranger

 

On 5 December 1968, the Chief of Staff, United States Army, approved the activation of the 75th Infantry as the parent regiment for all Department of the Army Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol (LRRP) units and the parenthetical designation (Ranger) in lien of (LRRP) for these units. On 1 January 1969 the 75th Infantry (Merrill's Marauders) was restored to the active roles of the US Army as a parent regiment under the Combat Army Regimental System serving in the Republic of Vietnam.

With this Department of the Army directive, the LRP Company of the 101st Airborne Division, Company F (LRP), 58th Infantry was deactivated and these individuals formed under the new designation as Company L (Ranger) 75th Infantry on 1 February 1969.

The year of 1969 saw the company rise in a degree of professionalism to make it one of the most efficient, accurate intelligence gathering sources in the Division. With the reorganization of the company from F Company (LRP) 58th Infantry to Company L (Ranger) 75th Infantry, the company's mission became strictly that of intelligence gathering. Freed from duties of security type ambushes, providing security for downed helicopters, and reaction forces as needed by the Division for general security; the company concentrated 100 percent on reconnaissance.

During 1969 the company conducted 310 Long Range Patrols, almost twice the number as the previous year, accounting for 21 enemy killed, and a larger undetermined number killed and wounded from the supporting fires of gunships, artillery and TAC Air directed by the teams.

The enemy was visually encountered and observed by patrols in as many as 100 occasions. Teams directed the fires of gunships and artillery as many as 200 times throughout the year. In addition to the visual sightings the company's teams continued to provide the Division with an immeasurable amount of information concerning enemy movements and concentrations, along with a vast amount of terrain information such as LZ locations, water sources and the like.

Loss of company personnel due to enemy action was 5 killed and 14 wounded.

The company additionally conducted rappelling and McGuire Rig training for the Division.

When inclement weather forced the closing of the outlying firebases due to re-supply problems, Co L found itself in a new role, that of working sometimes as far as 70 KM from Camp Eagle, depending on 175 Howitzers firing at maximum range for support and fair to poor or no communications.

In summation, Co L (Ranger) 75th Infantry continued to be the eyes and ears of the Division, reporting enemy activities throughout the Division Area of Operations. The Company's achievement and performance were admirable in every respect.

Due to poor weather and a lack of cover, there were a limited amount of Long Range Patrol missions conducted during the first three months of the year. During this period the Company also conducted close in security type ambush missions and downed aircraft security.

On March 27, 1969, three Ranger teams led by SGT William L. Marcy combined to alert FSB Jack of an impending attack by a large enemy force. Under the direction of SGT Marcy, the team engaged the enemy with claymores, hand grenades and small arms, to disrupt their route of march. Using a C-47 gunship and Aerial Rocket Artillery, they further impeded the enemy's progress. Shortly after daylight the enemy tried to withdraw and were pursued by fire that was directed by the teams. A sweep of the teams perimeter revealed three enemy casualties from small arms fire. The teams were cited for preventing a successful large scale attack on the firebase and SGT Marcy was awarded the Silver Star.

The company suffered it's first causality of the year on April 27, 1969, when Julian D. Dedman was in a helicopter that was hit by ground fire, exploded and burned. Another helicopter incident took the life of Keith W. Hammond on May 5, 1969 during an extraction in the Ruong Ruong Valley. The month of May was to see two more Rangers loose their lives in performance of their duties. On May 8,1969, two teams led by SSG Zochak and SGT Reynolds, combined to discover a large Sapper Training Area. After photographing the area, the teams were in a halt waiting for an aerial relay, when they were engaged by an enemy force approximately five times their size. During the ensuing fight Sgt Reynolds was mortally wounded and several other Rangers suffered wounds of less serious nature. SSG Zochak took charge of the situation and directed the fires of the team and supporting aircraft while caring for the wounded himself. By the time the reaction force had arrived, Rangers had accounted for twelve enemy KIA, and possibly a greater number wounded.

SGT William Marcy was killed by enemy small arms fire on May 20, 1969, in the late evening hours while exposing himself to call for artillery on enemy locations.

The month of June 1969 saw the arrival of the ARVN Division Recon Platoon to the Company. Joint operations were conducted during this month. Patrols led by SSGT Meiners and SGT Clossen resulted in 3 NVA KIA. In both incidents the ARVN's performed well, but the language barrier proved to be quite a problem.

A patrol led by SGT Anderson on 26 June 1969, discovered 31 122mm rockets along the Song Bo river. A reaction force was brought in to evacuate the items.

July saw the arrival of CPT Robert A. Guy and the concept of saturation patrolling. Ranger teams were in employed in clusters of 5 and 6 teams to completely saturate an area.

During the ensuing months the patrols continued to report on enemy movements, concentrations, and sightings throughout the Division Area of Operations.

In August, 3 successive patrols led by SGT Gerald Dotson engaged the enemy with their organic weapons. In the same general area, the Tennessee Valley, a patrol led by SGT Anderson and SGT Peterson engaged 5 NVA across a river from them with gunships. An ARVN sweep of the area in the following days revealed 5 NVA KIA.

On 23 October 69, a patrol led by SGT Dennis Karalow and SGT Edward Drozd ambushed 3 NVA resulting in 1 enemy KIA and 2 wounded. A search of the KIA revealed a weapon and several important documents.

On 26 October 1969, SGT David L Bennett engaged 1 NVA, and the team itself was engaged on 3 sides by and unknown size enemy force. While attempting to break contact, one team member, PFC Lytle, drowned while crossing a river.

On 3 November 1969, a heavy team led by SSG Bruce T. Black engaged 3 NVA, killing one and forcing the others to flee. Rucksacks picked up by the team contained a total of 22 60mm mortar rounds. The next day the team again engaged the enemy resulting in 1 NVA KIA by the detonation of a claymore mine.

December saw the Company patrols continue to operate far out in the Division's recon zone, depending on 175 Howitzers for support. Because of the bad weather air support could not always be counted upon. SSGT Solko set a company record when his patrol spent a total of 10 days in the field before the weather cleared sufficiently for the team to be extracted.

On the 17th and 19th of December, SGT Luchow and SGT Braciszewski made contact with the enemy and because of low ceilings and visibility had to rely on 175's to break contact.

The company entered the 70's with the same determination to accomplish its mission and devotion to duty that characterized its 1969 performance.

Company L (Ranger) continued to show throughout 1970 the esprit and professionalism that have characterized its operations since its incipience. The year barely got under way when on the morning of 1 January 1970, heavy Ranger team Shelby, under the leadership of SGT "Mad Dog" Macchisio, found themselves surrounded by NVA/VC. The team initiated contact killing one NVA/VC, and fought its way to the LZ where it engaged and killed another NVA/VC. An Areo-rifle platoon of Delta Troop 2/17 Cav was inserted while team Shelby's four WIA were extracted. A sweep of the area by the Delta platoon and the rest of team Shelby revealed several heavy blood trails.

This kind of close support with the air cavalry has been the key to success in many Ranger operations. On 24 January Range team Cortina, led by SGT "Bugs" Moran, utilized this support well. While working in the Khe Shan plains the team was taken under fire by a regular NVA unit. Although the teams small arms accounted for 2 NVA KIA, the NVA continued to maneuver against the team. The interdiction of a cobra gunship dampened the aggressiveness of the NVA. On the second pass screaming and yelling was heard from the enemy locations and soon thereafter movement stopped all together. The team was extracted without incident shortly thereafter. Another team working that area during the same time period also ran into well equipped and trained NVA elements. Ranger team Opel, led by SSG "Lobo" Bates monitored several dogs, flashlights and what sounded to be stationary internal combustion engines. The NVA began searching the area hoping to flush out the team when gunships were utilized to cover the area. The team engaged one NVA who had approached too near their location and received several frags on their perimeter resulting in 2 US WIA. The small arms continued until C Troop 2/17 Cav was inserted. Prior to extraction, team Opel was able to inflict at least three KIA on the enemy which was said to number anywhere from 15-20 NVA.

February of 1970 brought similar reconnaissance intelligence reports from Co L with but a few exceptions notable. One of these was heavy Ranger team Baboon, which had the primary mission objective of prisoner snatch. The team observed heavy enemy activity in the area and in the third day, by the direction of the team leader, SSGT Black, moved into an ambush for the PW snatch. Approximately 30 minutes after setting up the ambush 2 NVA were spotted moving toward the ambush zone. The Rangers sprung the ambush resulting in 1 NVA KIA and 1 NVA POW. A reaction unit from 2/17 Cav was called in to secure the team and its POW and the whole element was extracted five hours after the ambush had attained success.

March also brought a new aspect of Ranger operations to the forefront. Not only did Company L (Ranger) conduct 33 regular reconnaissance missions but also a raid to the Ashau Valley floor. Under the leadership of CPT Guy, company commander, and 1LT Ohle, 2nd Platoon Leader, two teams - Ranger Team North and Ranger Team Center, each comprised of 18 Rangers and 5 Engineers, CA'ed to strategic locations in the Ashau. The teams found signs of very recent activity to include tracks of earth moving equipment and sightings of NVA construction workers. One team destroyed one bridge and nearby protective bunker while the other team secured a downed 2/17 Cav aircraft and surveyed the road for possible interdiction points. The road showed signs of heavy of heavy foot and truck traffic within 24 hours but due to the element of surprise and the swiftness with which the raids were executed the enemy could not react.

April saw the introduction of several innovations to Ranger operations at Company L. The basic emphasis for the Ranger mission was change from reconnaissance to combat intelligence. Company L also integrated sensor monitoring with their teams with some very favorable results. The third change in Company L operations took the form of experimental US-ARVN recon patrols. A group from the 54th Recon Company, 2nd Regiment, 1st ARVN Division received training at Company L and joint operations were employed in the ARVN recon zone. The teams were out with a US Ranger team leader and were quite educational to all concerned.

By the end of April on to May 1970 emphasis was place on heavy teams and on having these elements maintain 50% security during their ONH. One such heavy team, Ranger team Grasshopper headed by SSGT "El Cid" Sands was working the Khe Sahn plains region when it became locked in a fire fight with an NVA/VC element of undetermined size. The team broke contact at 1700 hours after having received 2 US WIA and was heading for the LZ when it again made contact resulting in 1 US KIA, 1 US WIA and 2 NVA/VC KIA. The team could not move so it stayed in position and was re-supplied hand grenades and white phosphorous grenades by LOH. Both the Pink team supporting the Grasshoppers and the Medevac attempting to extract the wounded received heavy automatic weapons fire. Finally at 0245 hours the following morning Ranger team Grasshopper was extracted by ladder under fire. Just prior to extraction 2 NVA/VC were killed when they attempted to turn around one of the teams claymore mines.

May of 1970 brought Company L's first big tragedy. Ranger team Kansas, while working as a radio relay and reconnaissance team in the Roung Roung valley area observed only slight movement in their area of operations. At 0430 on the morning of day 4 the situation report sent to Ranger TOC was negative. This was the last communication anyone had with team Kansas. At 0800 a Pink team dispatched to the location spotted six bodies which were recovered by ground Cavalry forces. Investigation showed that one radio and all weapons had been taken from the bodies and claymore wires had been cut. No expended US brass was found in the ONH.

Rather than allow this setback to destroy the morale and aggressive spirit of the Ranger Company, the men in Company L took this bitter lesson learned and continued to "Lead the Way" for the 101st Airborne Division. During the month of July 1970 the company conducted 31 missions with emphasis again placed on reconnaissance intelligence. Due to the fact that major NVA units were infiltrating the 101st recon zone, the company concentrated its efforts on possible routes of march in the Khe Sahn plains.

One such team was heavy team Ferrari led by SSGT "Zee" Zentner. As team Ferrari moved off the LZ they immediately received heavy fire from three sides. The team returned fire killing four NVA. In the ensuing battle the C&C, Cobras and Loch's received heavy 12.7mm fire and .30 cal fire. In the immediate vicinity 45 bunkers were observed and an OD generator with wires leading in all directions was spotted. Two groups totaling 70 NVA were seen moving toward the contact. Aerial Rocket Artillery accounted for at least 9 NVA KIA. The team was finally extracted having suffered 6 US WIA.

In addition to running 31 regular reconnaissance missions during July, Company L (Ranger) graduated three classes of ARVN HAC BAO from specialized training which it conducted. At the conclusion of the course each class completed a 36 hour combat patrol accompanied by four Ranger advisors. Company L (Ranger) still enjoys a close camaraderie with the famed HAC BAO Company.

During the month of August Company L provided extensive intelligence reports to the 101st Airborne Division enabling it to pinpoint the missing Chi Thicu Sapper Battalion and to confirm the suspected infiltration the 5th NVA Regiment from Laos through Tennessee and Spear valleys. Often the cost of such intelligence was high - and might have been higher had not the Rangers had the full support of the 2/17 Cavalry.

Ranger team Kenya was very grateful for the Cavalry support it received. On their initial infiltration point, the helicopter received heavy small arms fire and crashed on the LZ. At this time SGT "Lazy Day" Hazelton, the Team Leader, requested a heavy Pink Team and Blues. The team continued to receive a heavy barrage of small arms and two mortar rounds went off on the LZ. Team Kenya suffered 2 US KIA and 2 US WIA but maintained tactical integrity for 45 minutes until the Aero-rifle platoon of Charlie Troop 2/17 Cav came to reinforce them. The C Trp ARP's suffered 2 KIA and 1 WIA on the insertion but held their ground until D Troop 2/17 came to the assistance of the combined element.

Another team encountering stiff resistance to reconnaissance gathering patrols was Ranger team Buffalo headed by SSG "Paul Bunyon" Suomela. Ranger team Buffalo had been hearing and observing may indications of enemy activity in their area when on the evening of day 4 of the patrol they were approached by several large lights from the North and East. They were subsequently surrounded by a platoon - sized element which began firing on a Pink Team that had come to assist Buffalo. The team threw frag grenades and fired small arms on the NVA position. All ARA and gunships in the area received heavy 12.7mm fire. At 0230 hours the next morning the team heard an Air Force fast mover supporting their element take fire and crash. The next day Buffalo was extracted without incident after having conclusively determined the presence of a large enemy element in that area.

Company L (Ranger) continued to saturate the lower Ashau Valley and Sung Bo Rao Trang Valley with reconnaissance teams all through the early monsoon period. At times weather became so prohibitive that truck insertions were made. The company however remained effective and continued to provide valuable intelligence information to Division.

One such team, Ranger team Savannah, led by SSG "Termite" Vanning, while acting both as a reconnaissance element and radio relay for other Ranger teams, confirmed the presence of Phou Loc Finance and Economy Company in their area. Team Savannah, shortly after insertion saw one of their trip flares ignite and employed artillery resulting in 2 secondary explosions. On day two the team observed 9 NVA/VC in rain gear and engaged them with organic weapons resulting in 1 NVA KIA and 5 blood trails. The body revealed several documents which were the primary source of the intelligence data on the Finance Company. Later that evening the team observed 1 NVA crawling toward their position and dispatched his with small arms and grenades resulting in another NVA KIA. Savannah then observed a light shinning on the body of the previous KIA and engaged it with organic weapons with unknown results. Shortly thereafter the team was extracted with their intelligence items.

The month of Nov 1970 was a particularly hard one weather-wise and the Ranger Company was only able to field 13 missions. Those teams, shifted to the Roung Roung Valley due to flying conditions, still provided timely intelligence reports. One of these teams, Ranger team Bills, headed by SSG "Spear" Houser determined the location of the 1/803rd NVA Regiment. Unfortunately for this information, Company L (Ranger) was to pay heavily. On day 4 of their mission the Bills made chance contact resulting in 1 US WIA immediately. The NVA maneuvered to within 30 meters of the Bills hasty perimeter and continued to fire for approximately 10 minutes. At the end of this time the team leader stated he suspected he was being surrounded. Again the enemy initiated fire this time wounding another Ranger. The team began employing artillery in the area until gunships could get on station. The bird attempting to McGuire one of the wounded Rangers out took heavy fire wounding several inside the helicopter and the Ranger in the McGuire Rig fell out and hit the trees. At this time (three hours after contact) the 2/17 Cav Blues hit the ground and linked up with Ranger team Bills. The combined element searched the area for the fallen Ranger and shortly thereafter recovered his body. Before final extraction of the team could be completed another Ranger was killed by an RPG.

December's weather proved to be no better than November but with occasional breaks the Ranger Company was able to complete 10 missions with emphasis on the Khe Sahn plains (Vietnamese Salient Area) and eastern Ashau Valley region.

The former location caused additional problems in communications and control. In order to alleviate these conditions Company L established a Forward Operations Base at Quang Tri with a radio relay team at Signal Mountain (950). These missions were run in conjunction with A Troop 2/17 Cav and personnel stayed with Papa Company (Ranger) 5th Mech who are also located at QT.

In retrospect one can easily see that L Company (Ranger) has continued to provide timely and accurate intelligence data to the 101st Airborne Division by aggressive and professional Ranger operations and personnel. Company L has performed in the finest tradition of its progenitors - the Merrill's Marauders and the pride of each man in knowing the precedence that has been set and the spirit of the 75th Infantry Regiment will insure its perpetuation.

1971 brought increased demands on Company L (Ranger) 75th Infantry as the company participated in Operations Lam Son 719, 720, and 810. Flexibility was the key as the Company was employed in 6 man teams, platoons, and as an entire company as the rapidly changing concepts of waging the war created new demands. The Company was to pay heavily for it's successes in the Ashau Valley during Lam Son 720 but inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy and his equipment.

Although poor weather conditions hampered Ranger operations during the month of January, the number of enemy sightings increased during this period. Sightings and contacts were made in the Bach Ma, Spear Valley, and Roung Roung regions. The use of "false extractions" by the company during this period proved to be highly successful. Ranger team Bass, led by SSG Vodden, (Fido), engaged an estimated enemy platoon in the Spear Valley area resulting in 1 NVA KIA and several more killed by ARA in close support. Ranger team Octopus, operating in the Spear Valley, engaged an unknown size enemy force resulting in 1 NVA WIA (confirmed) and several more NVA WIA (probable). The most significant accomplishment of the team was it's success in locating and confirming the identity of elements of the 5th NVA Regiment.

During the month of February the Company deployed a total of 17 Ranger Teams. Poor weather conditions again hampered team deployment. On 9 February several Ranger Teams were inserted into the Roung Roung Valley region to replace a infantry battalion that had re-deployed to the Khe Sahn region. These teams placed special emphasis upon ambush techniques. During the remainder of the month other Ranger Teams were active in the abandoned Firebase Ripcord area. Here the emphasis was placed upon reconnaissance and surveillance of roads and trails through out the area. In the Ripcord area, Team Phoenix, led by SSG (Fido) Vodden, engaged an enemy rifle squad carrying a Soviet 7.62 MG. The team killed 1 NVA, SGT (Butch Cassidy) Sellner, captured the enemy machine gun, and the team was extracted. Ranger Team Nashville engaged an unknown size enemy force in the same area resulting in 1 NVA KIA. In a nearby area, Ranger Team Toronto killed 1 NVA in a engagement with an unknown size enemy force.

Company L (Ranger) deployed a total of 21 Ranger Teams during the month of March. Initially concentrating upon reconnaissance of the area surrounding FSB Ripcord, this unit now shifted to the mission of monitoring and ambushing along Rt 547 from FB Rendezvous to FB Blaze and along Rt 548 on the A Shau Valley floor. Six Ranger initiated contacts with enemy forces in these areas resulted in 8 NVA KIA and 2 NVA POW. Ranger Team Indianapolis led by SGT "Hannibal" Barr, observed heavy enemy truck movement along Rt 548. During their reconnaissance they engaged 5 NVA with organic weapons fire. The results were NVA KIA (confirmed) and 1 NVA KIA (probable) observed carrying an RPD machine gun at the time of contact. Ranger Team Hamilton, also operating in the A Shau Valley, engaged 2 NVA resulting in 1 NVA KIA (probable) and 1 US WIA. Ranger Team Medicine Hat IV, led by SGT (Apple Jack) Smith, had the most significant action during the month. The team engaged and trapped 3 NVA in a reinforced culvert on Rt 547 in the FB Veghel area. Results of the contact were one NVA KIA and 2 NVA POW. The team did suffer 1 US WIA in the engagement. The information that the 101st Abn Div received from the POW's enabled the 1st Bde to counter a serious enemy threat to their fire support base in that area.

During the month of April, this unit deployed a total of 29 Ranger Teams. Teams were deployed in the Spear Valley area from 1 April to 10 April with emphasis on reconnaissance. From 10 April to the end of the month the unit's mission was company size raids to include platoon size stay behind ambushes in the A Shau Valley. L Co along with Delta Troop 2/17 Cavalry, made a raid along Rt 548, a wire cut on an NVA communications line, and left a platoon size element, led by LT. (Gray Hog) Sawtelle, for an ambush. The platoon size ambush engaged a 6 man enemy force that was a communications repair team. By employing gunships and small arms fire the Rangers killed the enemy and engaged another platoon size enemy force. The Ranger Platoon was extracted with gunships for cover. The Rangers suffered 2 killed and 4 wounded. L Co (Ranger) still containing its well known initiative, staged another company size raid in the A Shau Valley along Rt 548. The unit, led by CPT "Rolly Olley" Ohle, was successful in conducting a wire tap, the destruction of an enemy bridge, and leaving a stay-behind ambush. Ranger Team Cubs, led by SGT "Georgia Peach" Duran, which was on radio relay for the platoon conducting the ambush on Rt 548, made contact with a large enemy force in reinforced bunkers. This engagement with the NVA resulted in a three day and two night contact with fierce fighting continuously. The team suffered 3 killed and 1 wounded before reinforcements arrived. The Bravo Troop Air Rifle Platoon, 2/17 Cav was the immediate reaction force. They were unable to reach the LZ because of the intense ground fire. Delta Troop 2/17 Cav was inserted next to relieve the pinned down Ranger Team. They engaged the enemy but were pinned down and suffered heavy losses. After two days of continuous air strikes, gunships, and artillery on the enemy positions, along with another US company committed to the battle, the enemy still refused to give ground. Finally a small volunteer Ranger Team led by CPT Ohle and SGT "Muldoon" Rothwell, combat assaulted into the area and drove the enemy force from their positions, rescued all wounded personnel, and recovered the US dead. The Rangers provided important information for the 101st Abn Div by locating elements of the 5th NVA Regiment and inflicting heavy casualties.

During the month of May, Company L (Ranger) deployed only a total of 12 Ranger Teams. 11 of these teams were deployed in the Roung Roung Valley region with the mission of reconnaissance. One Ranger Team was deployed as advisors to the HAC BAO. During an operation on the eastern ridge of the A Shau Valley, this team was instrumental to an ARVN victory over the enemy forces they engaged. Ranger Team Tigers had the only significant contact in May when they engaged a small enemy force. The team had 1 US wounded and the enemy results were unknown.

Late May and early June found the company conducting fewer missions but intensive training of new personnel. They also provided training for the 1st ARVN Division Reconnaissance Company.

During the month of June, this unit deployed a total of 23 Ranger Teams. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Brigades all requested the employment of Rangers around FSB Maureen, Shock, Barnett, and Satan. The missions were reconnaissance for the 2nd and 3rd Bde. Several enemy sightings and small contacts were made in these areas of operations giving the brigades useful information. On 13 June Ranger Team Ohio, led by 1LT "Currahee" Grange, made a raid northeast of FSB Shock for the 1st Bde. The mission was reconnaissance in force looking for base camps, way stations, and cache sites. The team engaged an enemy outpost and a fire fight lasted several hours. The team employed air strikes and ARA on enemy positions and routes of escape, while they continued to use their organic small arms fire power. The Rangers suffered heavy losses of 5 US WIA and 2 US KIA during the contact. Enemy losses were also high with many killed and blood trails leading off in several directions. The 1st Brigade received needed enemy intelligence from this operation and reacted with larger units. On 29 June the entire company made a raid to locate an enemy aid station. The company was led by 1LT "Mountain Man" Montano. Teams were led by SFC (PSG) "Kamikaze" Kiama, and "Blackie" Batts, on a reconnaissance in force through the area. 1SG "Bull Moose" Gentry came into the area later with an emergency re-supply. The Rangers received automatic fire as they combat assaulted into the area. The unit employed artillery and ARA on all enemy positions and drove them from the area as they pushed on to their objective. The Rangers found the old enemy aid station, but were able to find only 3 NVA KIA. From this raid the 3rd Bde received important intelligence for future operations in the area. There were no Ranger losses form this operation making it a total success in company size operations.

In July, the emphasis on company size operations was decreased and the six man team again became the standard element of employment. The company began extensive operations in the Ba Long Valley area and operated a forward base at Dong Ha and later Quang Tri. The teams were deployed northwest of FSB Voghel with a mission of reconnaissance for the 1st Bde. Ranger Team Jane, led by SGT "Killoggs" King, engaged 2 NVA with the results of 2 NVA KIA (probable). The team employed ARA and artillery and were extracted only to be inserted onto a new LZ. The 3/5 Cav deployed six Ranger Teams east of FSB Hooker. Several enemy sightings, rocket and mortar firing sites, and suspected enemy camps were spotted. Rangers employed artillery on these sites. Six reconnaissance teams were employed for the 2nd Bde South and North of FSB Satan. One enemy sighting was made and artillery employed. Company L (Ranger) also employed one team with the HAC BAO in the southern portion of the A Shau Valley to act as advisors and interpreters. Action there resulted in several NVA KIA and light ARVN casualties.

Company L (Ranger) deployed 23 teams during the month of August. 16 teams reconned for the 3/5 Cav along the Song Thach Han River southwest of Quang Tri. These Ranger teams revealed some infiltration into the area by small NVA units. Ranger Team Rodgers made contact with a small enemy unit with unknown results. Two teams were deployed near FSB Veghel in support of the first Bde. Two other Ranger teams reconned around FSB Normandy and found recent enemy activity and rocket sites. The Rangers also worked for the 2d Bde, north of FSB Rifle. In this area three Ranger teams made contact with an estimated NVA reconnaissance platoon all on the same day. Ranger Team Cora, led by Sgt Ackley (Dagwood), made a point contact with the enemy while crossing a small stream. The team suffered one US KIA and broke contact with two enemy KIA (probable). Team Ann, led by Sgt Owens (Cobra), spotted the enemy preparing an ambush and fired up their flank. The team broke contact and linked up with Ranger Team Cora. Sgt King, (Killoggs), leading Team Stella, made a point contact with an enemy patrol and broke contact, linking up with Teams Cora and Anne. 1LT Grange (Currahee), organized the three teams as the enemy probed their positions. The Rangers repulsed the enemy with organic weapon fire and hand grenades. Later that day, CPT Robinson (Iron rump), came into the area and extracted two injured Rangers in his command and control ship. C Company 1/501st Inf reinforced the Rangers during the contact. Artillery, ARA, and gunships were employed the remainder of the day. As night approached the Rangers led combined elements to a safe PZ. This reconnaissance resulted in locating the old (Chi Thua II) Sapper Battalion. The contacts were exploited by 2nd Bde. The 3rd Bde inserted Ranger Team Ridgeway, led by 1LT Montano (Mountain Man), along the Rao Trang River southeast of FSB Ripcord. The insertion ship received severe ground fire after inserting the team. The team later found evidence of at least 100 NVA moving through the area, but had no further contact. Another team of advisors was inserted with the Hac Pao northwest of FSB Pistol. The Rangers employed ARA and artillery as they moved into the enemy held areas.

At a ceremony at Camp Eagle, the Company was presented the Valorous Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism during the period 7 Dec 1969 to 16 Feb 1970.

During the month of September, 23 Ranger Teams were inserted for reconnaissance missions. 14 teams were employed on both sides of the Song Thach Han River, southwest of Quang Tri. Two enemy contacts were made and the Rangers providing a screen on the southern flank of operation Lam San 820 found evidence of foot and vehicular traffic between FSB Holcomb and FSB Hooker. Ranger Team Mosbey, led by Sgt Murphy (Duce), made contact with two to three NVA while on a point reconnaissance. Sgt. Broyles (Undertaker), killed one NVA (probable). That night the team had enemy movement and blew their claymores. The next day the team found two blood trails. Six reconnaissance teams were employed along the Rao Nong and Song Bo Rivers in support of 3rd Bde. The teams discovered recent signs of infiltration throughout the area. Ranger Team Bradley, led by Sgt Wyatt (Body Bag), made contact with an unknown size enemy force immediately after insertion. The Rangers broke contact and had an emergency extraction. The contact was exploited by the 3d Bde. Rangers teams were then deployed for the 2d Bde south of FSB Rifle. Ranger Team Gavin, led by Sgt Wyatt (Body Bag), made contact with an estimated enemy platoon in reinforced bunkers. The team broke contact and called in gunships on the enemy positions. The team was extracted and reinserted the following day. Again, immediately after insertion, the team made contact with an enemy squad. The team killed one NVA (probable), broke contact, and were extracted. The 2d Bde exploited the contact with gunships, artillery and a CS drop.

During the month of October, this unit deployed 22 Ranger Teams. From 2 Oct to 13 Oct, 12 Teams were employed in the Ra Long Valley, southwest of Quang Tri. One heavy contact was made by Ranger Team Forrest, led by Sgt Lambert (Gloves), when the rangers discovered an enemy base camp. The Rangers broke contact with one US WIA and the team had an emergency extraction by ladder. The results were two NVA killed (probable) and from the exploitation of the 3/5 Cav, a large cache site was found. Ranger teams throughout the area found bunkers, rocket launching sites, and enemy infiltration routes. On Oct 15 the Company was detached from the 2/17 Cavalry and attached to 3d Bde of the 101st Abn Div and moved from Camp Eagle to Camp Evans. 10 Teams were employed in support of 3d Bde from 15 to 30 Oct. The Ranger Teams worked around FSB Gladiator, Helen, and Firestone. The largest operation of the month was when 2d platoon walked into the mountains on a nine day operation. Enemy trails, signs, night locations and sightings were made by Rangers on this operation.

The month of November was the last operational month for L Co Rangers in Vietnam. During this month 18 Ranger Teams were deployed in support of the 2d and 3d Bde. Seven teams conducted area reconnaissance in support of the 2/506 Inf around the FSP Gladiator and Coc A Bo area. The Rangers called in artillery on several enemy sightings and suspected base camp areas. There was one NVA sighting where small arms fire was employed with unknown results. For the 1/506 Inf, six Ranger teams were employed in the flat and piedmont region south and west of FSB Jack. Two Ranger Teams were employed along the Song Bo River east of FSB Baker for surveillance and monitoring of enemy movement along the river. Several enemy indicators were noted in these areas. These Ranger missions were of great value to the Third Brigade, since they provided screening patrolling in the areas of operation of the battalions that were "standing down" at Camp Evans. During this same period 3 Ranger teams patrolled the piedmont area south of FBS Arsenal in support of 2d Bde. Several enemy campfires were spotted and these were engaged by artillery with unknown results.

On 24 November, 1971, Co L (Ranger) 75th Infantry received orders to "stand down". By 5 December, 1971, the unit was inactivated, bringing to a close the history of Co L (Ranger) 75th Infantry in Vietnam.

The men of this unit accomplished what others only dream of and walked where others have not dared. Our minds and hearts are with those valiant Rangers who died in these battles.

"Whom shall I send and who will go for us? Here am I, send me."

Key Personnel Serving with Company L (RANGER)

 

Company Commanders:

 

CPT Kenneth R. Eklund 1 Feb 69- 13 Feb 69

CPT Lannie D. Cardona 13 Feb 69- 19 Jul 69

CPT Robert A. Guy 19 Jul 69- 20 May 70

CPT James D. Stowers 20 May 70- 15 Aug 70

CPT David H. Ohle 21 Aug 70- 1 Jul 71

CPT William L. Robinson 1 Jul 71- 5 Dec 71

 

1st Sergeants:

 

1SG James G. Farrington 1 Feb 69- 12 Mar 69

1SG Clarence J. Carden 12 Mar 69- 18 Mar 69

1SG Robert F. Gilbert 18 Mar 69- 20 June 70

1SG William J. Unzicker 16 May 70- 1 Mar 71

1SG Neal R. Gentry 17 Mar 71- 21 Nov 71

SFC Raymond T. Duffy 21 Nov 71- 5 Dec 71

 

Platoon Leaders:

 

1LT David H. Ohle

1LT Robert Johnson

1LT Stephen Osborne

1LT Kevin Henry

1LT Michael Grim

1LT William Brownsberger

1LT Claude Alexander

1LT James Smith KIA

1LT Paul Sawtelle KIA

1LT James Montano

1LT David Grange

1LT William Prince

1LT Robert Snyder

1LT Robert Suchke Feb. to July 1971

 

Platoon Sergeants:

 

PSG Donald Brickle

PSG Milton Lockett

PSG Konrad Taylor

PSG Troy Rocha

PSG Harold Kaiama

PSG Howard Dobbs

PSG Aubrey Batts

PSG Clarence Downs

 

Operations Sergeants:

 

SFC James Johnson

SFC Jose Mendosa

SFC Gilbert Parker

SFC Andrew Smith

SFC Fred Zabitoski [CMOH]

[LAYGO]

I've spoken to Gary Linderer on the phone recently to let him know of my Father's passing (see sig). My Dad served with the 1/101st LRRP in '65 - '66.

 

I'm sure you're aware of the 101st LRRP site:

www.lcompanyranger.com

 

You can see several of my Dad in the 1st Bde pics. My Dad is Pascaul Meza.