Vietnam basic training Ft. Ord
November 9, 2008 – 5:52 pm
Writer Gilbert Moore and photographer Jim Vestal visited Fort Ord in Monterey as training for the Vietnam War was ramping up. Both had been through basic training there in the early 1960’s but in the mid-1960’s thousands of soldiers were going to battle in South East Asia.
At the beginning of 1966 there were less 184,000 troops in Vietnam, by year’s end the number would be 389,000.
The story mentioned four San Luis Obispo county recruits. Wilbur Owens Jr., Roy Claassen, John Tiffin and Charles S. Cagle Jr.
The new recruits just off the bus in their civilian clothes looked and acted bewildered, the men completing the program had a sense of order that the 8 weeks of training had drilled in.
Quoting from the Gilbert Moore’s first person story,
“Before I came into the Army,” said Tiffin, “I thought it was going to be a lot tougher than it actually was. In about two weeks I adjusted.”
The physical training wasn’t so tough he said.
This is a point that several drill sergeants groused to me about over coffee later.
They want it tougher, even though they have to do it all too.
Underneath the bark is usually a mother hen who worries and frets when recruits are sent out into the Army world softer than they’d like them to be.
But meningitis here closed down the post a few years ago, and since then the health regulations have been tough. Every recruit goes to bed at 9:30 p.m. no matter what. That, complain the DI’s isn’t good for discipline.
169 Responses to “Vietnam basic training Ft. Ord”
I was drafted in June of 1965 from Los Angeles. I was with a whole bunch of draftees at the Reception Station in downtown LA. We were all assuming that we would go to Fort Ord for training and be relatively close to our families. This was not to be. It was announced that due to a serious outbreak of Meningitis at the training camp, we would all be sent to Fort Polk in southern Louisiana. I would have preferred Ord but Polk sure toughened one up and prepared us for our next stop: VietNam.
By Richard on Nov 9, 2008
Wow! Does that bring back memories. Somewhere, I have a copy of that edition of the Trib that my mother saved for me. When I showed this web page to one of my daughters, she at first refused to believe that guy in the uniform was actually her dad! Thanks for stirring some nice but distant memories.
By John Tiffin on Nov 10, 2008
Thanks for the comments Richard & John and to all who have served the nation on this Veteran’s Day, thank you.
By David Middlecamp on Nov 11, 2008
I was in Fort Ord oct 28 to feb 28 1963. A-1-1 up the hill. Lt. Brown was oure C.O. Please if somebody knows write to me. Johann. tHANKS
By Johann R. SEDLAK on Feb 20, 2009
I was at Ft. Ord in the summer and fall of 1963. My good friend from Simi Valley High School, CA, Ed (Edward)Hatten, joined the Army with me right after graduation and we were stationed at Ft. Ord together. In December 1963 we were sent to Korea for a year. In the ensuing years I have lost track of Ed and haven’t been able to locate him. My daughter found this site for me, so I thought I’d give it a try and see if anyone knows what happened to Ed and where he might be living at the present. Thank you
By Larry Harmon Thompson on Mar 8, 2009
Larry,
You can try a people search through one of many websites. Just google “find anyone” or something similar. I just did a quick search on your friends name and several hits in your age group (Im assuming around 64-66 years of age) came up in various locations around the US. Be aware that there will be a charge for contact info, but its usually under $20. Id recommend trying several sites for price. Good luck in your search my friend.
Joe
By Joe Dunlap on Mar 9, 2009
I am looking for fellow recruits that had meningitis, need to know how many left with medical discharge or what their after effects from Bacterial meningitis is.
I was the 100 th case, Nov. 6 th 1964.
Thanks for your time.
Joe B.
By Joseph Bensusen on Mar 14, 2009
Hello,
I am a freshman at Kenyon College in Ohio and am working on a presentation on basic training during Vietnam for a history class. I was wondering if anyone would be interested in answering a few questions regarding their experiences I would greatly appreciate it.
Thank you,
Ryan
By Ryan Mo. on Mar 25, 2009
Ryan, try R. Lee Ermey’s website. There are many dozens of Vietnam Vets there that would likely help you out.
Just a warning, old Vets don’t like people writing the tired old Liberal BS rhetoric about combat vets.
By SSG David Medzyk on Mar 25, 2009
Hi, Ryan.
I’ll do my best to answer questions. Contact me at pastor@baywoodchurch.com
By John Tiffin on Mar 26, 2009
I was at Fort Ord Sept 24 1970-Dec 16 1970
By John Paul on Mar 27, 2009
I was in Fort ordOct 1963. A-1-1 up the hill new barracks. My commander was LT. Brown. I would love to have a T-shirt. XXL. McDonnald wasmy traing SGT.Please write. Johann
By Johann R. SEDLAK on Jun 2, 2009
I was in fort ord oct 28 1963. LT BROWN was my commander. Up the hill. Johann from vienna AUSTRIA.
By Sedlak Johann R. on Jun 25, 2009
I took basic at Ft. Ord 0ct 1973. I was in Bravo 2/3. I never thought I would look back at Ft. Ord with fondness, but I do.
By Alfred Aguilar on Jul 1, 2009
Just a warning, some of us don’t feel the way you do about hindering speech; that’s one of things I put my life on the line for while in Nam!
TN
By Thomas on Jul 2, 2009
Thanks for the comment Thomas, and your service.
Speech here isn’t hindered much. ‘Be civil’ is the guiding rule.
When I created Photos from the Vault it was with the aim that all folks would feel welcome to comment and share stories, correct errors, agree, disagree, take issues up. It is an attempt to make the tent bigger rather than smaller.
I am of the mind that if a discussion has turned into name calling or personal threats the argument has been lost.
There are plenty of venting venues on talk radio and cable TV, and other blogs. This arena is striving for a different level of conversation.
FYI I can only think of three cases since the start where I have asked folks to think about what they have written. Only one case of a threat thread being removed out of 710 comments to date since November of 2007.
I’d be curious to know, does anyone feel their freedom of expression is too limited here?
By David Middlecamp on Jul 2, 2009
Not so far.
By Steven Lester on Jul 3, 2009
I was in co. B, 2nd bn, 3rd BCT in the summer of 75. I remember some of the drill sgts, and the two story wooden barracks. I also remember crawling around in ice plants, how I hated ice plants.
By Fletcher Hutchins on Jul 6, 2009
Do anyone remember a carl west who was at Ft Ord sometime from 1968 thru possibly sometime in the 1970’s I have looking for him for a friend of mine. This is his father and well the rest of the story is for him to tell not me. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
By Michelle Pulley on Jul 11, 2009
I was at Fort Ord from July 1972 to September. I was drafted and luckily I was sent to Germany and not Vietnam. Ord was great, I recently I visited and was so sad it was no longer a military installation. I met some good people there. I was the only Texan in a platoon of California guys. Anybody know if the platoon photos were archived by the military of any other. I am trying to replace one that was damaged.
By Hector on Jul 17, 2009
May 1971. I was shouted off the bus by an angry black man wearing a wierd looking flat brimmed hat. It was near midnight, maybe that was why he was pissed off. A rag tag assortment of long hairs and misfits, the sightr of us seemed to sicken the scowling stranger standing rigid in a crisp Class A uiniform covered with patches, lifer stripes and a wealth of decorations on his right breat. None of which I knew anything about. We heard the speech everyone hears upon reaching that alien place. We were informed, in no uncertain terms, that we were no longer people. Now we were troops. One man was one troop, 100 men were 100 troops. If one troop amidst 100 troops failed to “stand tall”, the entire 100 troops failed, and all 100 would suffer the consequences. He was to prove correct. May June July were the perfect months to go through basic and Fort Ord was the perfect place.
By Dan on Jul 20, 2009
I was at AIT Clerk Typist School in early 1974, came in as a PFC (ROTC in High School for Three Years). When they found out I could already type 35 WPM (Junior High Typing Class) they sent me on. I thought they would teach me touch typing. Not!
Our DI was a Black Drill Instructor Sergeant training for the Marine P.T. Test. I have no idea why, but He MADE Us his training buddies, and tryed to run Us to death every day.
His assistant was a Psycho White Drill Instructor. I saw a guy pass out during a run, and the assistant D.I. ran up and started kicking, and yelling at him, until he finally realized he was unconscious. Then he just ran off, to re join the platoon. Two of us were trying to help the guy when the support truck came along, and they sent us on. If I knew then what I know now, I would have done anything I could to put that D.I. on the carpet, or get him kicked out.
Anyway, what was the deal with the “ice plants”? What exactly were they, and why were they always yelling for us not to step on them. I think they were “protected” somehow by the EPA, but I’m not sure. The real plant name might help with my web search. Thanks.
And I also remember a lot of pot around the barracks. It was before the piss testing, but it was’nt my thing. And they had a whole lot of guards with M-16’s, and .45’s on Pay Day at the Gymnasium. A dozen or more officers with a briefcases each, full of cash. I heard a rumor that there had been a ripoff recently, and I don’t think they wanted another one. If memory serves they were not all M.P’s, just a few, plus the “Volunteers.”
And a building had been broken into, and there was bloody glass, so they lined up all the platoons, and had us strip our blouses for a hand and arm inspection. So much for our rights. None of us were cut up, and I never heard anymore about it.
By Marty C. Thomas on Jul 21, 2009
I remember Ft. Ord. Arrived at o’dark 30 on October 22, 1966 on a bus from the L.A. Induction Center and assigned to Company A or was it B, 5th Platoon, 3rd Bn 3rd Training Bde. A-3-3 or B-3-3 – the “Bayonet” company. It was the longest day! Remember Mighty Mouse? Remember big Sgt. Springer and his 2 x 4 swagger stick? Why were half the platoon from NY and the other half from So. Calif? Was it some kind of Army experiment? NY’ers and Surfers didn’t mix well in the beginning. Not “Good Vibrations.” I remember the cold and black October mornings, first formation, Sergeant says, “smoke’em if you got’em”, rustling of cig packs, Zippo lighters clanking open, striking flint, the smell of lighter fluid and cigarette smoke wafting through the ranks in that dark damp coolness by the sea. Long training days, short evenings, then Tattoo and Taps at night. Most of us survived. I went on to AIT Ft. Gordon, GA; then Co. A, 144th Sig Bn, 4th Armored Div., Goppingen, Germany; then Vietnam – 661st Ord Co. Ammo; 84th Ord Bn., Qui Nhon (4/68-5/69).
By George L. Escobedo on July 22, 2009
By George L Escobedo on Jul 22, 2009
Drafted 5/13/69 Did Basic and AIT at Ft. Ord and became an instructor in Quick Fire and Infiltration Course for BCT Committee Group while waiting OCS orders.
Never did re-up and ETS’d from the DMZ in Korea as a Strike Force Team Leader.
Loved the Carmel Valley Ranch and Hatchcover Bar in Carmel valley where lifer cougarwives would poach young NCO’s.
By Richard J. Heagle on Jul 24, 2009
I was Ft Ord from August 28,1973 untill aprox Dec 1973 for Basic Training.I went back to Ft Ord May 2009 and was shocked beyound belief.I think they did the stupidest thing they could of done close Ft Ord.It was the hardest training I ever went thru.I am very thankful I did POW camp was awesome though.I will have 30 yrs Dept of Defense service Sept 2009 and can retire.It has been an awesome but eventful ride.
Chuck Crocker (Lemoore,Calif)
By CHUCK CROCKER on Jul 30, 2009
Hello to Ft. Ord veterans.
Just a suggestion, but with all the interest in the topic someone should start a website or blog for folks who served at the facility. I’d be happy to link to it if that becomes a reality.
Thanks to the veterans for serving.
By David Middlecamp on Aug 3, 2009
I was a DI at Fort Polk during 1966 to 1968 in Tigerland.I am trying to locate others who served with me on North Fort at Fort Polk.
Sgt Morgan,Sgt Johnson,Sgt Develatie
Lost many a good friends serving with me during that time in our lives.
Sgt Greene
By James Greene on Aug 3, 2009
Anyone here who might have been at Ft. Ord Oct. 1965 through March 1966? My brother, James Edward Tooley, was there. Died Vietnam Dec. 19, 1966.
By Carol Collins on Aug 10, 2009
I attended basic training (C33) and advanced training (D24) at Ft Ord, CA. I arrived on post May 6, 1964, and departed on October 12, 1964, a hour or so before the post was closed due to the spinal meningitis outbreak in which twelve soldiers and 2 civilians had died and over 200 were hospitalized, according to published reports. Fear had gripped many who lived on and off post. I remember we were not tested or briefed about the growing medical situation, and that ambulances could be heard rushing to and from the training area almost daily. Newspaper stands in the area were removed as word spread quickly that soldiers and dependents were falling ill and dying from an undetectable illness. And, when a soldier’s girlfriend died after spending the weekend together, we knew that some soldiers could carry the disease to others without feeling the effects themselves. Any soldier in uniform who went on pass was routinely taunted or threatened. On October 9th, the governor of California demanded that the post be closed. Three days later the Army complied. The post closed just as three of us departed for the Monterey Airport. Fear that I was carrying spinal meningitis did not enter my mind until customers at the airport denied us entrance. The fear in their eyes was quite disturbing. My request to return to Fort Ord to be tested for the disease was denied. We then drove to San Francisco International where I caught a flight to Washington, DC. All during the flight I could not help but wonder if I was spreading the disease to others on the plane.
By Jim Satcher on Aug 16, 2009
I attended Basic training at Fort Ord from Nov through Dec of 1971. H11 (Headquarters Company, 1st battalion, 1st Brigade in the newer concrete barracks up on the hill. If there is anybody out there please give a shout. I would sure like to get a Comapany photo if anyone has one or knows how and where to acquire one
By Wayne Headlough on Aug 20, 2009
3rd Platoon Bravo Co. 3rd Bt. 3rd BCT Brigade, Feb. 70 Apr. 70. Good Old Sgt. Wheeler was my temporary military minded gubmint appointed “Mommy and Daddy,” no doubt sent from the theological location of eternal punishment, for those eight long but lovely weeks, of sunshine, exercise, fine high speed food and salt sea air. You just haven’t lived, until you do the 40 yard low crawl through a very large patch of those devilish ice plants beside the beautiful blue sea, near majestic old Stilwell Hall.
By Ron Ratliff on Aug 25, 2009
I was stationed at Ft. Ord from 1971-73. 6th Army USHQCO and I processed people out of the Army. CO was Ken Showalter. I also worked special services with Roger Jellison who ran the rec dept. I have very fond memories of the place and the people I served with.
By Mike Rogers on Aug 31, 2009
I was in Fort Ord 28 Oct 1963 when Kennedy got shot. Any one please write. I live in my home in Vienna AUSTRIA. Co Lt Brown. I s anybody out ther.?
By Johann R.SEDLAK on Sep 3, 2009
Wasn’t Kennedy shot on November 22nd? I’m just asking.
By Steven Lester on Sep 3, 2009
11-22-63 correct
By dan on Sep 9, 2009
I was a drill sergeant at Fort Ord for about 6-8 months of my final 2 year draftee status and service in Vietnam. This would have been about October ‘69 through maybe May ‘70. I have no pictures of any of that time and am hoping someone ou there may remember Sgt. Pollard and be willing to share some pix !!?
By Larry Pollard on Sep 19, 2009
I was drafted in 1971, did my basic and ait in fort ord from May to Sept. Had orders to vietman but was sent to Korea. In trainng i was in D COMPANY 4TH BATTLION 3RD BRIGADE, (D43)ANYONE THAT WAS IN THIS COMPANY?
By Eddie Herrera on Sep 25, 2009
I did Basic at Ft. Ord in 1970 from April through June. I was assigned to A-1-1. I remember Drill Sgts. Privitt (my Plt.), Sablan, Davis, Lambert, Cox, Parks, Poland and our Senior Drill Sgt. Cadle. Anyone else remember wearing those white magot tags on our uniforms and the privilege of burning them upon graduation?
)
I also did AIT there with D-2-2 in those WWII wooden barracks.
It was an interesting place for a guy from the East coast who had never been further west than upstate NY. I remember pulling guard duty out at Stillwell Hall.
I met some good people at Ft. Ord and would like to contact anyone that may have served with me there.
By John Mira on Sep 26, 2009
I did BCT C21 Dec 72-Feb 73, then AIT–forgot the unit. While waiting for AIT class to start, I was a holdover at the BCT company–got to paint the white rope & posts that surrounded the company area. I’m really saddened to see the fort closed and some of the pictures out on the Web–sections should be preserved.
By Jerry Hellinga on Oct 9, 2009
I was a Drill Sgt. with D43 from April 68 to Nov. 69 Fot Ord was a great place to bad to see it now.
By Phil Johnson on Oct 10, 2009
I took basic training at Fort Ord in Feb. 1959. Was in D-2-1, in the newer cement barracks on the hill. I still have my “yearbook”. Sure brings back memories!
jhnbllngr@gmail.com
By John Bollinger on Oct 24, 2009
i was at fort ord from aug 72-oct 72 basic training and hold over….was in d 4 3 for baSIC…have been looking for a friend i made there..his name is jerry sanches from clovis california…we had a blast while there..made basic a lot easier..sure would love to get a hold of him…and any other person that was in that company for basic during that time…
By alberto caballero on Oct 28, 2009
Hi,
I am a research and developer for Benacair non profit legal corporation, “Veterans Assistance” located in the state building-9207 Eton Avenue, Chatsworth CA 91311 tel: 818 701 9800X152.
Currently we are looking for those veterans that entered basic training 1965 thru 66 and whom were a part of the outbreak of meningococci. Some of the Veteran who recovered decided to waive any SC disabilites and choose to continue military service and are still suffering the side effects. Please give me either a call or give your comments. Dr. David Alcaras, contracted the Meningococcal meningitis in 1965.
By Joseph Benavides on Oct 31, 2009
I was at ft Ord in Oct 73 for Bct
then off to Ft lost in the woods
for AIT what an experience.
By Doug Campbell on Nov 3, 2009
Hi, David, and thanks again for stirring so many nice memories!
The site http://www.crswann.com/ftord/ftord.htm is “Fort Ord Remembered.” I came across it some years ago and it has many postings from people who served there. Last time I checked, however, it was not actively accepting new posts, so if anyone knows of another perhaps more current site, I (and I’m sure the others above) would love to know about it. John Tiffin (BCT at Ft. Ord, Aug-Oct, 1966; D-2-1 under Capt. Billy Cone)
By John Tiffin on Nov 4, 2009
I was at Ft. Ord, April through June 1974, for BCT. B 6 3 the best damm company on the hill Drill Sgt. It was definatley a life changing experience, as I think about it I am proud to have been able to serve. Hopefuly sometime in the near future I will get back up there just to look around.
By Mike Rangel on Nov 10, 2009
at ft ord in aug 1972 bct member of aco 1st bn 1st brg any other member would like to here my drill sgts name was workman would like to hear from some one from that time
By Karl davis on Nov 16, 2009
I was stationed at Ford Ord from January 1971
to April 1971. Company C 1st Battalion 3rd
Brigade (C-1-3) Anyone from same ou there.
By Michael Roberts(Utah) on Nov 26, 2009
I was in basic training at Fort Ord CA in 1963. On the firing line the day john Kennedy was killed. – tough times, those.
By George Springer "Tony" on Nov 28, 2009
I was in (H-1-3) in 1973 for basic training at Ft Ord and worked for AAFES at the Presidio of SF until the mid 80’s. I’m looking for anyone that remembers the either the bowling alley at Ft Ord or the Presidio. They used to serve some packaged sandwiches, The Torpedo, Longhorn Steak, Poor Boy, etc that I fell in love with. Ate those up to the time I left AAFES and then lost track after the bases were closed down. Just wondering if anyone knows anything about them and do they still exist somewhere. Do you know the name of the company that made them? Any help tracking these down would be greatly appreciated.
By Les Puskas on Dec 1, 2009
B42 Splinter Village 30AUG71-23DEC71 16week infantry cycle. We came out with 2 MOS”s 11B &11C. SDI Poole and his dog “Bacon” marched us dowm to the theater to see PATTON when it first came out. Drill Sgt Zimmerman was 2nd Plt Sgt. Cpt Searle was Co. Some of the best days of my life. Loved the Army and ate up basic & AIT. Went on to Ft Benning, Ft Kobbe, Canal Zone, Ft Riley, & Oakland Army Base. Did 3yrs active & 13yrs Reserve. Would love to hear from anyone from that time
By John McVay on Dec 5, 2009
From Palmdale CA to Fort Ord for BCT Jan-Mar 1969. D-2-3 new barracks. Have been back to Ord twice in the last five years just to look around. New barracks look the same. Older buildings deteriorating. Weeds everywhere. Scrub brush and chapparal overgrown. Beach ranges gone. Looks like a ghost town which is what it is. Still brought back a flood of memories, both kinds.
By Doug Moore on Dec 13, 2009
Looking for any information on the Drill Sergeant School at Fort Ord. When did it close, Who were the commandants and Chief Instructors at the school any photos of the school. simpsonusa@aol.com
By Gerald Simpson on Dec 28, 2009
I did Basic at Fort Ord from Sept., to Nov. 1970 C- 3 – 1. I was from New Jersey and the Army sent me to California for Basic. That was the first time and only time I was in California. My Drill SGT. was SGT.Smith.
By Sam Martone on Dec 31, 2009
Was in A11 oct 63
Mike Kelly from lake tahoe
By Michael Kelly on Jan 2, 2010
i am trying to find a map of ft. ord as it was during 1960-1965. my wife and i lived there during that period, were married there in 1966, and returned for a visit in 2006. a lot of things have changed or are gone. any assistance in finding map of the post as it was back when will be appreciated. thank you.
By t.hawkins on Jan 5, 2010
I went to Basic in 1968 (B-3-3) and after my tour in Viet Nam I returned as a Drill Sgt. in C-1-3 and A-1-3. Since I was born in Monterey County (Carmel) and my Father served at Ft. Ord before me this place has always held a special place for me. I am now the Senior Drill at a Military Academy in Visalia, CA.
By D. Sirkin on Jan 7, 2010
I went to basic at Ft. Ord March 1973 to May 1973. Was in A-3-3 on the Hill. My DI was SFC Eugene Butts. I was very impressed by him, what a true soldier. He did few tours in Nam. I remember our commander was General Hal Moore.
By Gordon Fehlman on Jan 11, 2010
Hello;Anyone from A-4-2 Nov 1968-jan 1969( in the old barricks)D.I. Linde C.O. Capt Beckland.
Fort Ord was a good place to be stationed,if
their was such a thing at the time.Looking for
Larry Brock from Texas,Bob Cherry from Oklahoma,Bob Bemis from L.A.and others.
Thanks
By Mike cesarano on Jan 15, 2010
My son just set up a new office in Viet Nam for the computer co. he owns.It is just a block from Mc Donalds in Hanoi.He says that we
should have dropped Big Macs and not bombs.Then
they would have asked for fries with the Big
Macs.The Viet Nam War was just a big waste of
American lives.And I am a Viet War Vet.
By John Hardisty on Jan 19, 2010
I was stationed at Ft. Ord following my basic training at Ft. Gordon, GA. From July 1967-May 1968 I was assigned to the CDEC command. From there over to Vietnam. I recall Ft. Ord and the Monterey area with warm and fond memories. Wonder what happened to the men I was there with. Have some old faded photos of them and of those days……….
By John Civitello on Jan 20, 2010
looking for anyone who had Basic Training at Fort Ord in August 1966; I was in H-4-3 with Sgt. Jones.
Thanks,
Thomas,
(619) 962-4814
By James on Jan 23, 2010
I was at Ft. Ord for two years. Basic C-3-1 then DI school a little over a year later. DI at C-3-1 from Oct. 1970 to July 1971. Best time of my life. Love to here from anyone that has survived. Drill Sgt. Traxler
gwtaxman@gmail.com
By Dan Traxler on Jan 23, 2010
My father was a German POW WWII, I think from 1943/44 onwards and I am trying to find out more information about his time there and photos. Does anyone know a good reference website or where I could find out more information?
thanks Angela
By angela koenig on Jan 25, 2010
Drafted and arrived from Portland, OR to Ft. Ord on Feb. 21, 1966. Spent 3 days there and had us take sulphur drugs because of a meningitus outbreak. Then they took 3,000 of us to Ft. Campbell, KY for basic training which they hadn’t had there in many years. 5 weeks into basic training, I came down with Steven Johnson symdrom and spent the next 6 wks and 4 days in Campbell Army Hosp. They didn’t know how to treat it or what caused it initially, but it was diagnosed at Steven Johnson syn. and was treated with high dose steroids. They asked about the sulpha drugs I had been given at Ft. Ord. They told me at the time, I was only the 2nd case they’d ever had at that hospital. Since then, I’ve had one recurrence after a bad sunburn. Again, steroids stopped the progression. If there’s anyone out there that had similiar symptoms or reactions in 1966 after taking sulpha drugs at Ft. Ord because of the meningitus, please contact me.
By Walter T. Harris on Jan 29, 2010
I was at Fort Ord for Basic Training. Date of Induction was 30NOV71 (Los Angeles, CA). My Basic Training Unit was also D-4-3 in the old barracks not far from the bowling alley. AIT was also at Fort Ord (C-5-1) but in the new barracks on the hill by the hospital. How about the runs to the beach? Anybody remember going to Stillwell Hall? Ed bte52@verizon.net
By Ed Blackburn on Jan 31, 2010
I did basic at Ord and served with Company C, 1st Btn, 3rd Bgd; D/I was SSGT Brooks. My cell mate was Grover Ford. The dates were 1963-1964. Cheers to anyone out there that remembers those tough days through 1968. JJ
By Joe Janey on Feb 2, 2010
Hi, My name is Drill Sgt. Richard Dahl. I was a Drill Instructor at Ft.Ord from April 1970 to May 1972.
Companies were: B-2-1 D-2-1 on the hill.
I was also down by the bowling alley with:D-4-3
Would love to hear from fellow Drill Instructors or Trainees.
I would love to have some pictures.
Thanks
By Richard Dahl on Feb 4, 2010
Richard Dahl
Email to: ddhll48216@comcast.net
By Richard Dahl on Feb 4, 2010
I am trying to help my dad he was in vietnam 1966 to like 1970 Belive. His name is Dale house I think he would have been in fort polk for boot camp he is from the LA area He was a golden dragon and a lrrp in 1966 He was a DI at ft.ord for a short while. I belive He is not in real good health these days and have been looking for some pepole that might know him anything will help thanks. Jessesupra95@yahoo.com is my email. thanks again
By Jesse House on Feb 4, 2010
At 17 took BCT with Jim Kyle and Bruce Clothier( we all grew up in Upper Darby Pa) A-4-3 5th Plt, from 9 Jul 1973 till 30 August 1973. Our Drill Sgt was SSG Chavez. CO was 1st Lt Meale. Outstanding training, Cadre and Area. Was able to return in May 1998 and company barracks were still standing. We had a really great PLT. Would like to hear from anyone in PLT or Company.
By Bobby Wingate on Feb 9, 2010
At Fort Ord for basic starting around mid June 1964. Unit was A-4-1 which was part of the old barracks. I have great memories of that time as an 18 yr old from LA who joined a reserve unit in Playa del Rey, CA. Still have photo of our platoon. Caught case of measles about the 4th or 5th week and spent 5 days in quarantine but got better and didn’t have to be recycled. Remember that our entire company went to the Salinas rodeo on July 4. Ended up getting called up in ‘68 and went to Vietnam in Jan. ‘69 eventually serving with 1st Air Cav. Good news – met my wife on the flight over. She was a stewardess for Flying Tigers. Best to all who served. Jack Stermer jcstermer@yahoo.com
By Jack Stermer on Feb 9, 2010
Nov. 21st 1949, started Basic at Fort Ord, then it was 16 weeks of constant training. Enjoyed weekends ( when not on KP or Guard) at the Soldiers Club, I still remember the head aches from the beer. Camp Stoneman followed,then Okinawa. Korea in July 1950 trying to stop the North Korean Army. Wounded on 1 Dec.1950 and recovered in Japan, then back to korea. Returned to Fort Ord as an Instructor in 1951. One Tour in Viet Nam with 42nd Ranger Bn in 1964. Three tours in Germany then retirement at Fort Ord in 1969. Have visited the old Fort several times since. Breaks my heart to see it dacay. My children were all born there in the old wooden building Hosp. I now live in Stockton CA. dmw32@sbcglobal.net
By David > Williams on Feb 9, 2010
Forgot to mention, I was on the Grenade range the day President Kennedy was killed. I called my wife and she saw it on TV. After basic, I spent 4 more tours at Fort Ord.
David
By David > Williams on Feb 9, 2010
I was one of the many USO girls from 1970-1973. I would love to here from other girls and people who remembered those wild and wonderful days.
does any one remember the Hdden village?
Brenda
By Brenda tatum-Carlson on Feb 12, 2010
I took Basic and AIT at Ft. Ord from Sept. 1970 thru feb 1971.H23 BCT 1st Platoon. Drill SGT. Smith. Turned 21 there and celebrated at the Soldiers Club.
By Jerry Becker on Feb 15, 2010
Stationed at Ft Ord Jul 72 – Sep 72 with Co C, 4th Platoon, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Brigade (C-3-2). Drill Sgts were Johnson and Paulis. I’m still in contact with only 2 others from Basic Training and would love to find the others. I can be reached at norsk@munich.com or norskmn at gmail dot com. You never forget the guys from basic.
Best Regards,
Jeff Aakhus
US Army Retired
By Jeff Aakhus on Feb 17, 2010
please..if u know me…email me and let me know when u were in ft ord and ur name…i miss talking with my army buddies..the ones that are left or havent went crazyanyway. Airborne!!
By alberto caballero on Feb 17, 2010
I joined when I was still 16. They didn’t take me to Fort Ord until Jan 68 at age 17. Did BCT at A-3-3 and AIT at C-4-1. Rotated through the Fort until Dec 68.
I’m looking for any information on the D.I. School at Fort Ord for my website. Any info or photos would be greatly appreciated.
Thank You All For Your Service! Hooah!
By Craig Coomer on Feb 18, 2010
I took basic training at Fort Ord in May-June 1963. I remember DI’s telling us that many of us will be heading to VietNam. Actually I got sent to Korea and was there when Kennedy was killed. Then I returned to Fort Bragg and my whole unit was sent to VietNam in 1965. However, I was unable to go since I had been in an accident and spent 6 months in the hospital.
By Dan Blattenbauer on Feb 24, 2010
I took Basic training at C-2-1 on the hill in the newer barracks from Nov 1968 to Jan 1969. My Last DI was Sgt Clanton. SDI was Sgt Bowser. I transplanted allot of that Ice plant. I was living in Tucson when I enlisted at 17. Went advanced Training for Microwave Radio Repairman at Ft Monmouth New Jersey. Then off to Vietnam April 1970 to June 1971. I was in Song Be, Tay Ninh, and Camp Bearcat while in Vietnam. I would love to hear from anybody. Tom Werner, Juan Carrillo, Pete Lopez. Does anybody Know About SDI Bowser. I had heard at one time He got killed in Nam, but his name is not on the wall.
By Frank Bayer on Mar 4, 2010
How would you find out who was the last draftee at Ft Ord..
By Jon Neal Goularte on Mar 4, 2010
You might try contacting the Monterey Herald or the county history museum. Is there a museum related to the former base?
By David Middlecamp on Mar 6, 2010
Here’s another A-1-1 from the fall of ‘63–Johann Sedlak, I don’t remember you, but you’re in my Fort Ord yearbook. Mike Kelly, I well remember you–we went up to the Bay Area on leave together once or twice. George Springer, I guess you were in another company, but we were both out there on the ranges on November 22… I wrote about it back in 2003: http://thetyee.ca/Life/2003/11/21/As_Good_a_Shot_as_Oswald/
I’ll try to track you guys down, but here’s my email: crof@shaw.ca.
Cheers from Canada,
Crawford
By Crawford Kilian on Mar 7, 2010
Is there anyway of knowing who was the last draftee to go through basic training at Ft Ord..
I went through 4-02 73….
By Jon Neal Goularte on Mar 9, 2010
I was at ft ord Aug 72
Had a good time,but there was a lot of crime going on,
They stole my billfold and watch.
But a lot of people were going awol and were being treated bad by the ds and co
There was one guy raped in the barracks one night,horrible.
But a good time,except for that cold oceanwater
By Mike James on Mar 9, 2010
This is in honor of my late brother Jim Becker who did his Basic and AIT at Ft. Ord in Oct. 1970 thru March 1971, I think of you all the time, soldier.
By Jerry Becker on Mar 9, 2010
I was in ord oct 65 my D.I. was SGT Ford H-3-3 i cant remember my lT name he looked and acted like he was 14 but drove a bad 65 stang
By Ivan Mauch on Mar 12, 2010
I did my basic & AIT training at Ft. Ord from Jan. – June 1971. The DIs were mostly from Hawaii or Philippines. We had this cool black guy named “Bobby Love”, he was a recruit like us but also the designated squad leader….the barrack windows were kept open due to Menigitis outbreak. I did two AITs (grunt/clerk) Ended up at Bragg w/82nd ABN….Looking for Bill Westmoreland and Bobby Cepeda.
avalencia_1@yahoo.com
By Art Valencia on Mar 16, 2010
i was in fort ord in june of 64 i was wondering if anyone remembers Carl Jackson i was wondering if he is still around i was a good friend of his in basic training
By harry williams on Mar 22, 2010
This brings back many memories for me. I enlisted in the Army Apr. 20, 1963 and did my basic training at Fort Ord. I remember our sergeants saying many of us will be heading to VietNam.
By Dan Blattenbauer on Mar 23, 2010
Took basic training Fort Ord Sept-Nov. 1966. H-1-3. Drill Sergeant Sgt. James Mapa. Remained there for AIT. Served in Vietnam Jan. 1967-1968. 864th Eng. Bat. Cam Rahn Bay and Nha Trang. Upon return stationed at Camp Hunter Liggitt south of Ft. Ord. Proud to have served in the U.S. Army. Retird from U.S Postal Service.
By Eddie Webber on Mar 26, 2010
May-July 1966 Clerk typist school at D-1-4. looking for the guys the were stationed at Fort Irwin, Tom Scott, Jim Smith, Paul Roos, Zagalow. Where are you guys!
By David Tapie on Mar 27, 2010
I was at Fort Polk – North fort Charle Company July 1966
By Gene Price on Mar 28, 2010
Hey,”DAVID TAPIE” I WAS @ D-1-4 clerk school May-July 1966″B.A.A.C” “U right after basic @ A-2-1 which was March-May 1966, I would like to talk with you, I live in Olympia wa and I am a “Ft Ord Alumni member” and I go down to Ft Ord every year to just look around and remember the ‘good old days”!
By Thad May on Mar 30, 2010
TO: David Tapie, send me your contact info my e-mail is: Silverado04@mac.com
Thanks
Thad May
By Thad May on Mar 30, 2010
For John Mira. I did basic at the same time as you in April of 1970 at Ft. Ord. I had Drill Sergeant Davis. E-mail me at sfcfrank2003@yahoo.com. You might me amazed ot know what I am doing now
By Frank Sonntag on Mar 30, 2010
I was drafted on Nov. 27, 1967 and did my basic at Fort Ord. I believe the unit was B43. Shortly after I was drafted they closed down the induction station in L.A. to reorganize because they were taking people who were physically unfit. I only weighed 114lbs, was about 5′-9″. When I got out of basic I weighed about 140lbs. Was in the old wooden barracks, they were torn down and replaced with modern ones. They were overwelmed when we got there and screwed up my shot record. Went on to Fort Knox and then to Germany (Kirchgoens)2/32. When I was taking my seperation physical the Bn. doctor made a comment about me not being able to eat eggs. I told him I ate them all the time. He laughed and said the mistake with my shot record was a reason they didn’t send me to Nam. Fort Ord looks like shit now and alot of it is being re-developed.
By Mike Dunn on Apr 1, 2010
I am searching for Benjamin Franklin White he was at Ft Polk 1964 and sent to Thailand in Jan 1965 if anyone has any information please contact me. Some1smirror@yahoo.com
I am doing this search for a man who would like to find the father he never met or atleast find out about him.
Thank you
By Brandy on Apr 1, 2010
Hello my name is Lisa and our father was at Fort Ord. during 1962-1965. His name is Walter Harrison Jr. I was born at the Fort Ord Army base October of 1963. We have been trying to track down his military records and were told that they were burnt in a fire?
If anyone knows our father or have had some of the same problems of tracking your military records have some advice around this issue that would be great! My dad was married to Clonelda Harrison which their probably is no one else with that name if that helps.
By Lisa on Apr 2, 2010
Gene price Do you remember a Sgt Jim Carter from Fort Polk 1966 or a Phil Zaborowski?
By David Tapie on Apr 3, 2010
Thad May: Thanks for the phone call. It was great talking about Fort Ord, our history there and our Army stories. I hope to make it to Fort Ord in the end of July. hope others can be there for a mini reunion my class was Clerk typist D-1-4 early in 1966. Thanks for all the pictures! Dave Tapie Army 2/66 -2/68
US 56415***
By David Tapie on Apr 4, 2010
I had bcs @ h23 Ft. Ord May 71 anybody out there?
By Bob Hubbard on Apr 8, 2010
I was at Fort Ord 65 and 66 AIT Inf. training.
By Carmine Verna on Apr 11, 2010
I was in basic june 73-aug 73 H11 Looking for any one that was there and hope to talk , from there went to Fort Lewis, Tacoma ,Wa, 1st 84th
and hopeing to reconnect
By William (Bill) Couch on Apr 13, 2010
H 4 1 BCT March 1971 May 1971 off to ft gordon ga, became an MP was on the way to nam made it to ft lewis and was sent to ft richardson ak 56th mp co. was back to ord in 2001 found h41, our dinning hall became the police station.
By art coleman on Apr 16, 2010
I was at Ft. Ord from July 9 to Nov. 7, 1970. Did my basic at C-3-1 on the hill and I see someone mentioned Sgt. Smith. He had the fourth platoon at the time and was the only Vietnam vet among the DI’s and he was also the best liked. I was in the first platoon and had a German DI whose name was Klingenberger? something like that. He was pretty level-headed. I remember the SDI was a hawaiian and another DI who was oriental with a black belt in karate who was pretty brutal. He beat the living shit out of one trainee who returned from AWOL.
Most of the names escape me, but I remember sleeping on ice plants during those short breaks and double-timing to the rifle ranges.
I did AIT at the wire school in the old barracks from Sept. to November and my opinion of the cadre was that they were mostly losers and sure, the Army was scraping the bottom of the barrel (after all, they took me.)
I was an NG and the cadre hated NG’s and ER’s.
So why do I remember this experience so fondly? Go figure.
I would like to connect with some of my fellow trainees and would like to know if any of the old cycle books are archived somewhere.
danwilly@yahoo.com
By Dan Wilson on Apr 25, 2010
Took basic training at Ft Ord July 1966 H-5-3 4TH Platoon. Sgt Polk was my DI also Sgt Trafford and Voyles. We were quarted in the old wooden barracks.
By Jerry Ramirez on May 3, 2010
I WAS DRAFTED IN 1967 LOS ANGLES CA , WAS STATION AT FORT ORD CA H-4-1 UP THE HILL, ITS NOT LIKE TODAYS ARMY, BACK THEN WE KNEW WHAT TRAINING WAS,ROUGH AND HARD AND NO GIVING UP,IF YOU DON’T MAKE IT RECYCLE YOU GO(YOU START OVER AGAIN FROM DAY ONE) BELIEVE ME I SAW TWO GUYS ON THE LAST WEEK OF TRAINING START AGAIN’”BUT I MADE IT BACK”
By R. FONG JR. on May 4, 2010
Any soldiers out their that were from Fort Hood or Fort Irwin that were in AIT at D-1-4 in 1966? Dave tapie says hi to all you old farts!
By Dave Tapie on May 7, 2010
i was at fort ord for basic in sept73 thru nov 73 bravo 5-3.drill sgts.sambrano and malott assholes at the time but helped me in the end.dod my ait at fort polk.need to get a hold of platoon picture
By francisco j, alaniz on May 11, 2010
Started BCT April 1966, D-4-1 (Can Do!). Good memories of the guys. We were always restricted, but had fun. If anyone know’s Ken Housh tell him I still have that tattoo he talked me in to while processing in downtown L.A.
By Minters on May 18, 2010
I was at ft. ord in april ‘61 in D/1/1 our platoon sgt was sgt dahlberg. are there any ng’s out there that remember our experiences there? I took my ait at fort bliss, tx. on 90mm guns
By ron watts on May 20, 2010
I was stationed at Fort Ord for basic training in June of 73 i was in first platoon of A-3-3
My DI was Sgt Moore.I also did m ait there I was in 64c20 truck drive.
By george goodew on May 22, 2010
Am looking for any survivors of Basic Training at Ft. Ord Company B, 4th Battalion, 3rd Brigade serving under drill instructor Sgt Coyne during Sept-Oct of 1968
By Don Aarts on May 23, 2010
I was at Fort Ord for basic training in the summer of 1969. We were Headquarters Co. The weather was great and I got to go to the beach a lot. LOL the firing range. It was a good experiance. From there I went to Ft Huachuca as permanent duty for 9 months then to Hunter army airfield.
By Philip Whitaker on May 26, 2010
Went bct H -3-1 AIT B-2-4 went to germany then vietnam 11th ACR
came back to ft ord cedcom. I still know every grain sand by its first name form basic training. after bct I really like ftOrd but had to back to
germany 221/2 retired
By Randy Vandever on May 27, 2010
Went bct H -3-1 AIT B-2-4 went to germany then vietnam 11th ACR
came back to ft ord cedcom. I still know every grain sand by its first name form basic training. after bct I really like ftOrd but had to back to
germany 22 1/2 Army retired
By Randy Vandever on May 27, 2010
whatever happened to drill sgt james 1974 C-1-3 2nd platoon outstanding drill sgt for the cycle?
By ed stancil on May 28, 2010
My basic training there in 6-28-74,I was in reception station for two weeks learning to march.in civilian clothes, before we went up to the hill for basic training,I don’t remember my DI name but,maybe someone might,Bco 1st Bn 4th Bde ,He had a Hawian Todem in front of barracks.would like to know how to get a year book or if some one remembers thatplease let me know.at esparzabert@yahoo.com
By albert esparza on May 28, 2010
what memories ,I really did like ft ord ca. Its hard see the videos of a ghosttown base,But Gary Neal if your out there,call me we went trough affees process in amarillo tx together, i still remember you i was from lubbock tx .Give me a call like to see how you doing maybe you Marty c. Thomas or mike Rangel ,Ed Stancil.Have Basic Training for that cycle Jult -Aug 1974 .Would really like to hear from someone during that time,Good Memories.
By albert esparza on May 29, 2010
wasuuup albert? I WAS IN C-1-3 2ND PLATOON OUR DRILL SGT JAMES WAS NAMED OUTSTANDING DRILL SGT FOR THE CYCLE.I WAS THERE JULY TO DEC.I ALSO AM LOOKING FOR MY YEARBOOK,I’TS A CHORE.I’M REALLY DISCUSTED,I’VE LOOKED FOR IT FOR YEARS,YOU MIGHT WANT TO TRY YOUR LUCK ON ONE OF THE FORT ORD LINKS.GOOD LUCK TO YOU.THANKS FOR YOUR COMMENT, YOUR WELCOME TO E-MAIL ME ANYTIME.GO STEELERS ED STANCIL C-1-3
By ed stancil on May 30, 2010
I am still trying to help my dad find some old freinds from the war. His name is Delbert House. He did his training at fort polk i think that is how you spell it. He latter was a drill instructer for a short time at fort ord. He was with the golden dragons he served with the lrrps in 1966. Thanks
By Jesse House on May 31, 2010
A great ook about a great man A role model for all young politcians. After reading the book I have recommened it to everyone I meet. I`ll be in California to attend my grand daughter’s graduation at U of Santa Barbara on June 13 and plan to stop at Chaple Hill on the
way . Is there any chance that I could have Mr, Clark sign my book? Thank you , Robert A Frriedmann
By Robert Friedmann on Jun 1, 2010
In case no one is reading too far back in these posts, I’m looking for anyone from D-2-1 Basic Tng. at Ft. Ord during the Aug-Oct, 1966 era. Capt. Billy Cone was CO, and DIs included SFC Rivera-Rivera & Sgt, Muse.
By John Tiffin on Jun 1, 2010
http://www.fortording.com is a website created by a professor at Cal State University Monterey Bay at the old Ft. Ord, CA. It has photos, blogs, memories, murals, etc. and will bring back many memories for lots of you. I was DI Sgt. Felix Morales’s wife during the mid 60’s & 70’s.
By Chris Station on Jun 4, 2010
i cant believe there is a website on ft ord.i took basic there in 1971 and though it was tough ill always be proud i made it through and served my country
By stanley napierkowski on Jun 4, 2010
if any one was from Co. D31 basic in 1971, please post a reply.
By stanley napierkowski on Jun 4, 2010
Hey Guys, my husband is looking for his Army Buddies that served Basic Trianing April 20, 1968 through April 12, 1970 so if you are out there give him a holla !! his Name is Herman White, he has been wondering what ever happened to his Buddies, Hutchenson, Rib,Buzzered, all nick names they gave each other. This would be a really nice Father’s Day gift for him if you would please get in touch with him. God Bless you all and stay safe.
B.J.White
By Brenda White on Jun 9, 2010
I was at Ord from jan 68 to july 68 D-1-3 up on the hill,also went ait there came out 11c from SLO class of 66
By robert McMillen on Jun 13, 2010
I was at Ord BCT July 1970 H-3-1, Looking for anybody else in that unit. Would like to see company photo.
Take care and thanks to everyone for serving.
Roy
By Roy Schook on Jun 14, 2010
Hey: Where are all you Spring of 66 Vets
Class of D-1-4 Clerk school. Woods, Roos, Zagalo, Smith, Scott, Dixon, Deardorf. Wat up, too old to respond! Give me a jingle, Dave Tapie the “Misquito” remember, “Holy Shit it’s Bat Man”
By David Tapie on Jun 14, 2010
I did my basic at Fort Ord [D-2-1] in March/April 1964. I have very fond memories of those days and of my fellow soldiers, particularly John Larue and Eddie Izworski. They were among the best friends I ever had but time and distance caused us to lose touch. I would love to hear from anyone who knew them or served with me
Arthur
By arthur f hughes on Jun 14, 2010
D-5-1 21may1970 entered basic training for ord
By Stephen Nash on Jun 25, 2010
i am lookin for someonewho was at Ft.Lewis in 1971, in charlie co.4th battalion,1st brigade c-4-1 1st platoon, hopin to beable to get platoon photo and contacts of my past,1st sargent farley. or maybe someone knows how to get duplicate copies from contracted photographer?
By william magistad on Jun 30, 2010
I survived B-4-3 in Sep of 68. Not sure who the Drill was. I do remember he had a mustache, but he shaved it off due to a new post policy.
By Rick Hunter on Jun 30, 2010
I took basic in 68 at D-2-1 platoon 3 had picture taken of whole platoon 31 august 68.stanley tamura,kornel steffin,franklin kahele,candido garcia,kenneth mitzuo were the squad leaders then went to ft gordon for infantry ait,then jump school at benning,when to viet nam and met some old friends jack lewellyn,jack told me that kornel steffin and william hausler were killed,I looked for their names at the wall but couldnt find them there,ord was great,after vietnam recuperated at ft ord hospital from wounds in vn
By ramon garcia on Jul 4, 2010
A freind of mine was at Ft. Ord during the Vietnam war and went through some type of military experimentations and was medicall discharged and he was never the same again. does anyone know of such military experimentations on soldiers during that time? Please e-mail me if you do, thanks.
I was at Fort Ord as a reporter fronm May 69 thru Oct 69, between tours in Vietnam.
Will “Cajun” Abshire
willabshire@yahoo.com
By Will Abshire on Jul 6, 2010
I took basic training at Ft Ord from October to December 1970. D-3-1 Was a NG. I actually liked the Fort. Remember the bowling Alley and that dam Falstaff beer (Yuk) Drill Sargents were Bolens and Miesner,,,you guys still out their???? Give me a shout anybody Dardrum@comcast.net
By Dale Riccetti on Jul 11, 2010
Feeling nostalgic so am checking out Ft. Ord sites. I was at Ft. Ord 5/70 thru 7/70 with
B/1/3. Head DI was SSG Connelly, head DI was SFC de la Cruz.
By Vince Rojas on Jul 18, 2010
Dale I was out there at the same time, Basic and AIT at ft. Ord. Drank alot of beer at the bowling alley, could not bowl worth crap though. Remember the Soldiers Club?
By Jerry Becker on Jul 18, 2010
I took my A.I.T. at Fort Ord, Co. H 1 Bn 2 Bde. Dec. 16, 1968 to Jan of 70. Would like to have (Buy) copy of our yearbook or if nothing else a enlarged copy of Grad. Photo.
Would really appreciate your help. Contact me at JavierLRmz@cs.com
By Javier L. Ramirez on Jul 19, 2010
I dont remmember you but you are in my Fort Ord yearbook I was in Fort Polk. Who wrote that. I was in A-1-1 up the hill oct 28 1963. Lt Brown was my comender. Please tell me your e-mail addr.Johann I live here in Vienna Austria 1220 ESSLINGER HAUPSTRASSE 9 AUTRICHE Europe. Please write. Johann.
By Johann R. Sedlak on Jul 20, 2010
Beautiful post for BCT.. Was there June 73 to Aug 73, Co. C/2/3. Anyone remember Drill Sgt. Pete or a Marine turned Army DI named Queen? Went to Tigerland from Ord, what a change.
By Scott Henderson on Jul 22, 2010
Jesse House
I was at Fort Polk (North Fort)Charlie Company in July 1966.
Gene
By Gene Price on Jul 23, 2010
Hello, I am also a Ft. Ord “veteran”, I was there in Sept and Oct of 1970 for the radio operator school. I was in C 3 4 while there. I can’t get over how cold it got there, I was expecting sunny “Cali” sunshine the whole time, I could swear I remember it snowing once. It was mostly a bad experience for me since I was young and not “street smart” at all. I did like Monterey, took lots of pics of the area.
By Ed Douglas on Jul 27, 2010
I should mention the units I served in:
704th MSB 4th Inf Div
HHC 15th Avn Gp
161st Inf WARNG
1059th ORD AZNG
371st SPT OHNG
email ed45679@aol.com
By Ed Douglas on Jul 27, 2010
I was at Fort Ord from May 16th – June of 1969 for my Basic with D-3-1 and from July – Aug 16th for my AIT with H-3-2 I have not photos of that time. Sent to Vietnam Oct 16th 1969-Oct 16th 1970 4th Division
By john m garcia on Jul 27, 2010
I was in basic at Fort Ord July 8, 1963 D-1-3 and I am looking for William Smith. P. E. Bannan was the Company Commander. Anyone know of his where abouts. contact javelin239@msn.com. Thank you,
By Darol Wintle on Jul 28, 2010
I am on facebook I was at ft ord Dec.1973 c-33
By david olmos on Jul 29, 2010
I was stationed at Fort Ord, CA. in March 1972; had Basic and AIT there and then stationed in W. Germany that summer. My basic training company was H-4-2. I was looking for an old copy of our graduation book and platoon pictures. If anyone knows how to get these, please let me know. You can contact me at hthurmanjr@yahoo.com. Please note “Fort Ord” in your message so I know it’s not spam. Best of wishes to you and your families.
By Harry K. Thurman, Jr. on Aug 1, 2010
Drafted Jan 24, 1972 and took Basic Training at Ft. Ord, D-2-1, late Jan early Feb. 1972 to late April early May 1972. CO was Cpt. Stedman, 1stSGT Jackson, SSG Jones, Sgt. Guthrie, PSG Bloodworth, many more names I cannot remember. The cadre at D-2-1 moved to A-2-1 and I stayed on as a Clerk Typist and did not go to AIT. Late Oct. 1972 shipped off to Neu-Ulm Germany and was assigned to a Pershing Missile Unit until discharged Jan. 1974
By R.J. Deakins on Aug 3, 2010
Stationed at Fort Ord, Feb-May 1970, BCT A13, and my DI was SSG Casiano. Other DIs included PSG Pablo, SGT Little, and SGT Andrewjeski (cannot recall the other two names). Concluded BCT, then shipped to Fort Sam Houston for MTC.
Anyone reading this from A13?
By M.James Lee on Aug 5, 2010
I was in fort ord oct28.1963. Lt. Brown was my commander. Why dounst any body write. Johann I live her in my home in Vienna AUSTRIA.Are the all dead.Sgt smitty was my training sgt. There was sombody who says i am in his blue book graduation. Oleas make a copy and send it to me ESSLINGER Hauptstrasse 9 Vienna 1220 AUTRICHe. Europe. Thank you so much. Johann
By Johann R. SEDLAK on Aug 6, 2010
Yes Jerry I remember the Soldiers club even though I only was their once, on the last week of basic. Never could get past the bowling alley lol
By Dale Riccetti on Aug 7, 2010
I was at Ft Ord in Sept 1974 for BCT (A-6-3), i still enjoy looking at my BCT year book from time to time. after that it was on to Infantry School at Ft.Polk, Tiger Land (D-5-3).
By R. Ford on Aug 10, 2010
Do any of yall know what 27th Tiger Battalion means??
By Dena Cloud on Aug 10, 2010
reading about you guys that took basic in Ft. Ord I was a DI in A-3-2 in 1972-73 looking to see if any of you guys are still around.I”m still living IN Monterey, a lot of us stayed here ,even married a locale have too boys neather went in the mil. thank god My E-mail cliff.runner@hotmail.com
By peter vaughn on Aug 13, 2010
I did my basic training at Ord aug ‘71 B-3-1 Have only heard from one guy in last 39 years lets hear some responses from other guys at the same time or company. what a great place it is.
By Bobby McCollum on Aug 18, 2010
May 1971 basic training Ford Ord.
Company H-3-3 Hardcore. Is here anyone out there from this group? I remember one man his name was Bob Shoeman?
By Jim Hansen on Aug 21, 2010
Took basic July 71 to Sept 71 at Fort Ord. H-5-3, 4th platoon (drill Sgt. Barnett) looking for anyone who took basic with me or was with that unit and looking for a basic training yearbook for our unit to copy or buy. Also looking for Gary tsugawa best friend while in basic.
By James Van Kuren on Aug 23, 2010
I was at Fort Ord from May 1968 Until Aug 1968
My BCT company was D33 and my DI was SGT Bolima. I went to Fort Knox for AIT then on to Fort Riley. I was 17 when I was in Boot Camp and I came down with something that landed me in the hospital in my 6th week But I able to get out fast and graduate with my company. I ETS’d in March 1971 at Fort Ord. I came back in 1999 and spent a week taking pictures and memories.
Mick Batton
By Mick Batton on Aug 25, 2010
BCT at Fort Ord, H 5-3. May 1972 to July 1972 followed by AIT at Fort Sam and then off to Germany. Although not the drill sergeants assigned to my platoon I still remember SSG Ramon Holguin and SSG Brown with great respect. No, not nice guys, just squared away Soldiers. Basic was no picnic!
By Jimmy Sandoval, USAR Retired on Aug 25, 2010
I enlisted in the Army from Los Angeles, Ca. on 5 Nov 1965 and was sent to Ft. Ord for basic training. I was with the first group in A-1-1 after the Meningitis out-brake. If I remember right our training only lasted 6 wks. instead of the normal 8 wks. as an experiment to see if they could train troops faster. We were in the newer concrete barrack’s on the “Hill”. I remember we had to leave the windows cracked open ALL the time because of the fear of Meningitis. I still got sick and spent a week in the hospital but still managed to complete my basic training without being sent back. I remember while in basic training we were allowed leave for Thanksgiving. The company commander and DI’s thought we’d all come back stuffed with food and not be able to pass our PT & Confidence course test but we ended-up breaking the Post record. I remember we all celebrated in the mess hall with a couple of kegs of beer! Don’t tell anybody! After Basic I went on to Ft. Gordon, Ga. Signal school then to Ft. Huachuca, Az. and finally ending up with “C” Company, 37th Signal Bn., 1st Signal Brigade, Chu Lai, Vietnam in ‘68. I will never forget Ft. Ord!
By Steven Carlson on Aug 26, 2010
Please write I do’t remmember you but you’re in my Fort Ord yearbook. I was at Fort Polk-North charly Company July 1966. Please write this is johann from vienna AUSTRIA. Do you realy have my pictures. Johann. I was in A-1-1 up the hill new building. Lt. Brown was my Co. Please write Johann
By Johann R.Sedlak on Aug 27, 2010
Does anybody remember me Johann R. SEDLAK . I was on top floor. Lt Brown my Co. Please write. I live her in Vienna AUSTRIA.
By Johann R.Sedlak on Aug 27, 2010
response to Joseph Bensusen
In 1971 I arrived at Fort Lewis Wa. I was there approx 5 days and then ended up in hospital with 105 degree plus fever.
I consistently had occurrences of Aura after the hospital stay and in 1981 resulted in a seizure. I still have seizure complications today.
Lyle Rasmussen
rlyle3@gmail.com
By Lyle Rasmussen on Aug 28, 2010
I was at Ft. Ord from January 1972 to March and then AIT as a signal man till June. I was a squad leader in basic and Company Commander in AIT. After AIT I attended the Leadership Prep course and then went to Ft. Benning for Airborne training. I was sent to South Korea in October 1972 after sitting in Oakland for three weeks, and was posted first to the MARS station and then to the Division Tactical Ops Center as a radio operator. Drill Sargeant Byrd was our platoon’s flat hat-
By Garth Mills on Aug 31, 2010