Tom White's  Collection

2nd Platoon, C Company, 4th/47th Battalion, 2nd Brigade

Charlie Company Memorabilia

Introduction Thanks to Ray Layman receiving a hot chunk of metal in his buttocks blasted from a Viet Cong claymore mine in April 1967, an opening presented itself for lucky Tom White to join the 2nd Platoon. It was rough for a replacement to fit in because the rest of us had trained together for 8 months prior to coming to Viet Nam aboard the troop ship, USS General John Pope. However, Tom's likable personality and willingness to work hard won us all over.  He rapidly clicked with everyone as it became obvious that he was a true Old Reliable.  Tom could be counted on to carry his weight and do the tough job in God's worst terrain, the Rung Sat, the rice paddies and jungles of the muddy Mekong Delta.

  Bill Reynolds - August 18, 2001

Tom White goofing off with Earl Eddings. Taking breaks
between patrols on the Navy barrack ships was the best part
of serving in the Mekong Delta.
 

Sleeping quarters are a bit tight on the USS Benewah.  From the left:  Howard Green, Richard Northcott, Art Debbling, James Holstine, and Steve Jarrett.

James Holstine, from Austin, Texas - one of 2nd Platoon's most reliable squad leaders.

1st Platoon's John Sclimenti, another guitar playin' soldier from the San Fernando Valley.  John was everyone's good buddy and he even tolerated our replacements.......harhar!

Steve Jarrett, another 2nd Platoon
replacement. Tom could only wish for
such a fine moustache as Steve's.....
 

Here's Kenny Mullins from Virginia.  Kenny was one of those "lucky" 2nd Platoon replacements who joined us just in time for a few awesome battles and firefights in the Mekong Delta.

Here's one of 2nd Platoon's very early replacements, Art Debbling from California.  Art, along with 1st Platoon's John Sclimenti, was our resident comedian.

Three original Old Reliable troopers: 2nd Platoon's Bob French (left) and Mike Cramer (center), and I wish I could remember the name of the soldier sitting up on the right.

Another 2nd Platoon replacement? Anyone out there know this soldier?

Ronnie Parks, a 2nd Platoon replacement and obviously just delighted to be in the beautiful and exhilarating Mekong Delta.