I was stations at Korat Thailand with the HC130 with the 56 ARRS Air Rescue (King)- 41st wing along with the HH53s.

I left Thailand in Dec 1975 after a year in country

Brothers,

Here is the link to new information regarding relaxation of VA rules for submission of PTSD claims. I would recommend that everyone file a new claim under the current rules. If you need help, contact a veteran’s service officer (DAV, VFW, AmLeg, VVA, etc.) in your area, or you can call me. I certainly intend to reopen my claim. (Copy and paste into your web browser.)

http://www.military.com/news/article/new-ptsd-rules-relax-definition.html

Semper Fi,
Edd

If you were stationed at Camp Lejeune any time before 1987, go here to register for water survey:

https://clnr.hqi.usmc.mil/clwater/

There is more info about the Camp Lejeune Water Survey and the VA claims process here:

http://www.military.com/news/article/va-quietly-gives-benefits-in-water-case.html?wh=news&ESRC=marine-a.nl

Semper Fi,

Edd

Below is information which may be helpful. Feel free to contact me if more info is needed:
"VA Makes Filing Claims Easier

Week of June 28, 2010
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is reducing the paperwork and expediting the process for veterans seeking compensation for disabilities related to their military service. The new forms on VA's website include a shortened VA Form 21-526 for veterans applying for the first time to VA for disability compensation or pension benefits. VA provides compensation, pension, education, loan guaranty, vocational rehabilitation, employment, and insurance benefits to veterans and their families through 57 VA regional offices. For additional information, visit the VA website or call VA's toll free benefits number at 1-800-827-1000."
Semper Fi,
Edd

was bt on the coral sea my heart goes out the the families and the fallen servicemen

Ships Company: USS Coral Sea 5/71 - 7/75

I served with BLT 2/9 the following year, 1976 and processed a lot of the paperwork from the rescue operation. My hat is off to all my brother Marines that went there, those that paid the ultimate price and those that made it home. I feel a little closer to you Marines every time I see an article or read about the incident. My prayers are with all of you, those who didn't come home and those that did and all of the families!! Semper Fi!!

I was the radio operator for the command group assigned to ltcol. Austin on kotang . Semper fi !!!

Warriors,
I know we will always remember the Fallen of battles past since the 1770's. These Fallen have fought and protected our way of life since then. Along with your service in the defense of this country we call home of the Brave. Thank you all for your service.
Fratres Aeterni,
Scott

Hello Wives and Vets of Koh Tang,
It was great seeing you all and I know I head somemore as we all did, and I know we all left with a sad heart knowing it was over for another year, but we have even more to look forward to in 2 years, and as you all know I took most of the pics at the reunion and if you want any and I know its going to take Fred some time to get them all posted. (Love you Fred) and if you can't wait send me a email at either address and give me all your info so I can get a cd back to you, see you all in 2 years
1. NEWONEINAJ@AOL.COM
2. thndrishere@aol.com

SEMPER FI
Larry Yerg

Hello Brothers

I just got in from the road and if my heart had wings it would be soaring in the ozone right now. I am so glad that the reunion was such an awesome success. My heart was broken that I could not be there but I know u guys understand. Wild horses won't ever keep me away again. Thank you everyone for the the great pictures and the the flag. I cried like a baby and thats good too. I am so happy to see our brothers getting involved with our group. I want all of you to know that over these years you guys have been the very breath that I breath. All of you have brought such healing to me that words can't express how I feel right now. To our wonderful wives I want so say that I know that we are a tuff bunch to live with and at times to understand. WE also know that without you we are incomplete. THANK YOU

God Bless
Larry

had a great time.enjoyed the whole reunion.it was good to see you guys again.hope tp make the next one in branson. carl odom l/cpl g 2/9

Maybe next year

We just wanted to thank everyone that was at the reunion this past week. We had a wonderful time and was one of our best vacations. Our home computer is down for now, but if you want to contact me (Jeff) send it to Ann at this address until we get the new one.
Thank you all again and Semper Fi

Jeff & Ann Kern

Dear Koh Tang Beach Vets.....Just wanted to thank you for welcoming me to your opening event at your reunion, even though I didnt have the official paperwork. During my short visit and conversations with you I am once again heartened by the caliper of men that have served in our military under harsh and thankless times. That is why it was important for me to deliver my thanks in person and I know the thanks of our guys from NKP that also suffered without any public recognition. Thank you once again and maybe at your next reunion it is time for the survivors (25) NKP USAF 56th SPS to join you finally and close ranks for good. PS...Hope you enjoyed the Jack and Cigars. Town Patrol Mac

Brave words from brave men

What a G R E A T reunion! It was so wonderful to put faces with emails and voices, and to hear how everyone has fared since ’75. When we returned home I was shocked to learn that after we had left town on Thursday, there were 4-6 tornado touchdowns all around our home near Tulsa. Fortunately, we suffered no major damage, just lost a few more tree limbs. Just part of life in Oklahoma. I was very impressed with Friday’s Mission Debrief, and the fact that everyone who wanted to do so had a chance to tell their story. For those who still suffer PTSD, please remember what Dr. Wm Reid had taught me: 1) You can’t change the past, 2) we can only learn to deal with those events as they apply to our current life, and 3) Talk about it, talk about, talk about it! It will really help. Those considering making application for VA benefits, please remember: Be consistent, be persistent, and be NICE. I look forward to serving the next two years as the Secretary for the organization. Please feel free to contact me at any time. Semper Fi, Edd

I served with alot of you in the Saigon evacuation. I was a crewmember aboard USS ENTERPRISE. Since we were two months extended for Operation Frequent Wind, we were sent to Subic, then home. USS CORAL SEA was our relief. I remember reading the message traffic in the Intelligence Center on the Mayaguez. I'm good friends with Charlie Clark here in New York. We both belong to our local VVA Chapter#140. I also visited the The Wall That Heals up at the original Woodstock site last night, the 15th of May. A group of older looking Nam Vets were there. I reminded them of the 41 KIA's on the 1975 panel. Let them know that most of the KIA's were that day, 35 years ago. None of them knew that, and thanked me for educating them. I have always had a special place in my heart for all the Koh Tang vets who made it back...and didn't. Sadly, our country seems to have forgotten about that operation. Your story needs to be told so they'll never forget. God Bless you all...and Welcome Home ! Cory Kilvert U.S. Navy 73-78.

Spent the morning at Woodstock Site. They had the Moving Vietnam Veterans Memorial there. Helped many people find names of lost friends and family. I had the Branson Missouri crew in my thoughts.

There are more people who now know about May 15th on Koh Tang. Each time I go to the wall a little more healing takes place.

God Bless Danny, Gary and Joe! Gone but not Forgotten!

Charlie ABF-2 USS Coral Sea Dec 1971 through June 1975

I'm glad we were able to help 35 years ago.
These day's will never be forgotten.

Armed Forces day (15 May): Would like to say to all Branch's of service; for your service to this great nation. You have done your part in the defense and support of the United States of America.
Memorial Day (31 May). Remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our way of life and freedoms we have had and continue to have since the 1770's. Never forget the battles since then that have forged this Nation. Pray for all the families that have lost Loved ones in military service of this country.
Fratres Aeterni,
Scott

Sitting here thinking about the reunion starting today and the 15th around the corner, I hope everyone is doing well and thankful for still being here. I will see all of you guys in a couple years when I retire. Semper Fi. Larry Branson

From: ceclrk8@frontiernet.net
To: trbailey@comcast.net
Sent: Wednesday, April 28, 2010 9:51:07
Subject: Mayaguez Reunion

Unfortunately I will not be there. No way to take time from the job and we have family activities that coincide as well. My youngest is making first communion and her birthday is May 14th.

I will plan for the 2012 reunion once a location is picked. If there is a gathering in 2011 I'll be there as well. My thoughts and prayers will be with you the 13th through the 16th.

These next few days are the anniversary of the evacuation of Siagon.

Please give my best to all attending. We are all connected through a common bond.

During my group session yesterday at the VA Center the Mayaguez Recovery and how it affected me was major topic of discussion. After 35 years I can still close my eye's and see you guy's coming off the Jolly Greens...Like my tattoo says we can never forget!

God Bless
Charlie Clark - Coral Sea
ceclrk8@frontiernet.net

Fuji sure brings back some memories. Especially opening a can of frozen spaghetti on top and enjoying eating it!

To Al bailey:
I'd like permission to use one of your photos titled 'Hooch' for a finished article titled "the Last Man".
If you approve please e-mail me written permission.