In the foreground is the 3 KW generator that supplied power to the radar system. It was an aircooled, flat, opposed, 4 cylinder unit of 32 cubic inches. The generator in the background was a 1.5 KW unit that was used to recharge our communication radio batteries. It was an aircooled in-line 2 cylinder engine of 16 cubic inches. (Ben Soi, September, 1969)

This is a view of our radar van, looking almost straight down from the tower. The dirt-filled wooden ammo boxes covering and surrounding the van were a minimal attempt at shrapnel protection. We were so nomadic that we seldom had time to construct adequate protection for ourselves or equipment. (September, 1969)

This AC-47, sometimes known as “Spooky” is very similiar to the one that helped us defend our camp at Tra Cu.

View looking south at Tra Cu ATSB Camp. January, 1970. (photo courtesy Steve Scafturon)

CH-47 Chinook helicopter just about to touch down. Although this photo was taken 3 months after we arrived, this is precisely how and where we arrived at Tra Cu ATSB. January, 1970. (photo courtesy Steve Scafturon)

Sugar in gasoline will cause engine to seize? I have since learned this is a myth. Adding sugar to gasoline does not cause the engine to seize. Sugar will not mix with gasoline, so if any enters the fuel tank, it will just settle to the bottom. Worst case might be a clogged fuel filter.

Graduation from Basic Combat Training. Right after ceremonies all troops received new orders and were shipped off to another Army base for AIT (Advanced Individual Training). After that, we received our first duty assignment orders. Usually, that meant Vietnam, Korea or somewhere in Europe.

This is all that remains of our Company training area. Every single building has been removed except one. I still recognize the dry creek bed near the top of the picture where we put the white-washed rocks.

The mess hall. Line up, serve up, be seated, eat and then move out smartly!