The Mighty Ninth

Strive To Reach The Summit


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Ambrose_Smurra.JPGYes, I got my ticket to VietnamMy name is Ambrose Smurra; I am a Cannoneer. Without me, nothing happens. My favorite hobby between fire missions was exchanging Italian recipes with Lt Bob Patalano.
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Patalano_-_Smurra.JPGWONDERFUL REUNION - 50 YEARS LATERFifty years after Vietnam, I met up with my old paisano Bob Patalano in Connecticut in 2017. We used to exchange our favorite Italian recipes while on duty with the 2/9th in Vietnam. There have been a few changes in our appearance since then.
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AS-21.JPGUnloadingOne the howitzer is on the ground, we unload and set that sucker up for firing.
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AS-23.JPGTypical scene in the Central HighlandsAlmost every firebase in the Central Highlands had a mountain backdrop.
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AS-24.JPGThassa Me!Standing next to my gun.
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AS-12.JPGSupply DropThese are key supplies delivered by sling under a Chinook.
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AS-19.JPGScenic OverlookIf you were lucky, your next position looked like this. You had both the commanding high ground against the enemy and a beautiful scene every day.
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AS-10.JPGScenic FirebaseThis is one of the more scenic firebases you'll ever see in Nam
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AS-25.JPGProtectiveAutomatic weapon...loaded and ready to go. I'm prepared for anything.
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AS-20.JPGProtecting the AmmoEvery gun section took great care to build a wooden shed to shelter and protect the 105mm ammo.
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AS-6.JPGPlenty of dustThis is generally what it looks like when a CH-47 brings in a slingload of supplies.
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AS-15.JPGOutdoor PorchWell, some of us can build better stuff than others.
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