Shiny Bayonet

About the Book

Operation Shiny Bayonet was the first combat operation of the Vietnam War of the 1 Battalion (Airborne), 12th Cavalry Regiment. It was a five-day operation of which we were in contact with the enemy for three days. The Battalion suffered its first combat casualties and fatalities of the war. It was a time that we made mistakes and learned what combat really was. As one of my comrades put it, "We were a bunch of scared kids that had no idea what we were getting ourselves into." It was five days that changed us all.

About the Author

Born in 1939 at Fort Worth, Texas. Was raised on a ranch in North Texas. Joined the U.S. Navy and served honorably for four years. During my time in the Navy made five cruises to the arctic, up into Baffin Bay, Hudson's Bay, into the northern reaches of Foxx Basin. After my navy service, joined the U.S. Army and became a paratrooper. Served most of my army career in parachute or light infantry. Served one tour of duty in Vietnam with the Airborne Brigade of the 1st Cavalry Division. My second tour in Vietnam was as an infantry heavy weapons advisor on a mobile advisor team. I also served the army in Hawaii and in Germany. My last assignment before retirement was Weapons Department, The Infantry School, Fort Benning, Georgia. I have been awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Cross of Gallantry (Republic of Vietnam), Combat Infantryman's Badge, Parachutist Badge, Commando Badge (French Army). Retired from military service since July 1977.