Sunday, March 17, 1968

From Mike's letter, 12 Mar 1968: "We have had a couple of intelligence briefings since we have been out here on station. They point out on the map what operations have been taking place and how it involves us... They say that at Khe Sahn there is most likely to be one of the most decisive battles take place soon." [Letter]

From Mike's letter, 12 Mar 1968: "I have held off long enough telling you, but I have grown a mustache. I started it on Jan. 28 and will probably shave it off in Japan." [Letter]

From Mike's letter, 16 Mar 1968: "Today the ship had its 100th helicopter landing... About 1330 we had a fire break out in one of the radar power rooms. They got it put out quick and there was very little damage. It was an electrical fire caused by some overheated wiring. So today has been one of our more eventful days out here." [Letter]

From Mike's letter, 16 Mar 1968: "Every Monday evening at supper they pass out these malaria pills for us to take. They make you feel a little sick the next day but thats better than being laid up in some hospital for a couple of months. I suppose those Marines welcome that because at least they can get away from here without having to take a bullet to do it." [Letter]

From the Mar 18 Familygram: "Not all days, however, are filled with the drama of a SAR incident... Our helicopter, affectionately known as 'Clem II', is readied for immediate launch. As the Officer of the Deck turns the ship into the wind, pilots and flight crew dash to their places in Clem II; the ship's Helo Detail--deck handlers and firefighters--man their stations. Within minutes, Clem II is cleared for take-off and rises into the air." [Familygram]