93rd Transportation Company

This should bring back memories for those who might have been in or around Soc Trang in the Delta during the early 60's. The tiger's name was Tuffy and he was obtained from MAAG-Laos and kept as a pet by the 93rd Trans. He was bottle fed until he could feed himself and became quite tame as time passed. They kept him tied up just inside their little officer's club doorway and first-time visitors would almost stumble over him as they entered..and as you might imagine...scaring the holy hell out of themselves. I can personally testify to that!!!!! Great laughter from the bystanders always made it worth the scare. I was told that a collection was taken years later and Tuffy was shipped to a Zoo in CONUS, but I am not sure of how true that rumor is. Should you hear from those who know the facts I would be interested in learning just what ever happened to Tuffy.
Image courtesy of Charlie Dexter

This is what was called a "Blood Chit". It is made of silk and was sewn on the back of our flack jackets. However, many of us thought it to be too much of a "bulls eye" if one were running in the jungle; so we cut them off and carried them in our jacket pockets. The wording is written in eight languages (English, Burmese, Thai, Laotian, Cambodian, Chinese, Chinese (Modern), and Tagalog) and reads: "I am a citizen of the United States of America. I do not speak your language. Misfortune forces me to seek your assistance in obtaining food, shelter and protection. Please take me to someone who will provide for my safety and see that I am returned to my people. My government will reward you." Also shown in the display case are the dog tags and St. Christopher's Medal that I wore on that first RVN tour.
Image courtesy of Charlie Dexter

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