During a 13 month tour of duty in Vietnam in 1967-1968, Larry spent time in two locations while in VietNam. After his month long cruise on the USS General John Pope, Larry’s new “home” was in the Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam.
With sweltering temperatures and in-human humidity levels, life was rough to say the least. Add in the daily rocket attacks and constant pressure from the nearby “VC” and you have a miserable experience.
When the top brass wanted to spread the unit out to share their experience with other green troops, Larry and a few others were sent north to “Marble Mountain”. This area was much cooler (average 90-100 degrees) but the action was equally hot.
Marble Mountain is where Larry served out the remainder of his tour of duty and where he also earned the nickname “Dinky Dau” which he later turned into a lovable cartoon character with the same name. Below is a small sampling of photos that attempt to show some of the experiences from 13 months that changed the rest of Larry’s life.
Quote from a T.O. (Technical Observer) in Larry’s unit.
“Larry was one of the best crewchiefs in the 244th, his assigned Mohawk. I never had any qualms climbing up into the cockpit and going on a mission, I knew I would come home. And I did, thanks to Larry. Thank you, my friend”
Bruce Gaylord Sgt., 244th Avn Co
