June Trip to Vietnam - June 19

Fire Support Base (FSB) Charlie Brown was the first FSB that Mike Dankert and I reported to when joining our infantry platoon. Surrounded by water, we had to take a navy boat to get to Charlie Brown. This is the FSB that I reported to and flew from to report to my platoon for the first time, and Bruce Tufts the first platoon member I met. During our time operating in this area, we guarded the bridge over the Song Dai river that flowed into the South China Sea, and Mike, only with the platoon for several days, went on his first patrol were they spotted over 17 NVA soldiers. I got to know Juan Ramos and Paul Ponce during our time at the bridge. I hope the Buddhist Monastery, where the strange music played at night, is still located near the bridge.

GOOGLE MAP - Click to View
FSB Charlie Brown
Bridge
Patrol
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Military Map 1969

FSB Bronco was the Brigade Headquarters, Battalion Headquarters, and our Company Headquarters location. We reported to the company headquarters before going to the field and when coming in from the field. The Brigade hospital was located on FSB Bronco, and many of our wounded and dead were transported by dust-off helicopters to Bronco. FSB Liz was another firebase in our operating area, but Mike and I never served on Liz. Other veterans requested we stop at LZ Liz during our trip.
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GOOGLE MAP - Click to View
FSB Bronco 
FSB Liz ​
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Military Map 1969