I want to take this to Thank the committee for sending Cirilo A.K.A "Bush Bandit" his coin he got very excited to receive it, but cannot thank you his self due to his recent bout with illness. As of 28th January he has been hospitalized 7 times, the 6th time was a stroke which has impaired his speech, at times he can make sense but not always so he will only try to talk to family members. I apologize for not responding sooner but my days are so full and by the time I sit down to make phone calls its usually late..
So sorry for not calling you Perry but with the time difference you would have shot me if I had called..
The coin is BEAUTIFUL and boxed perfectly, it arrived just before his birthday so he showed it off with his other birthday gifts to everyone...
I had a phone update from Larry Jenkins last week and it sounds like we are all having our ups and downs, I send prayers to all that the Lord keeps you in his prayers.
Diane Silva for "Bush Bandit".

Our Challenge Coins are now available for purchase on the PX. They are just the coin w/o the box and sell for $10.00 ea plus shipping.

I had a wonderful visit with our Brother, Bob Spencer and his wife Glenda, at their home in Cody, WY last week. I can't tell you how good it was to see him and Glenda. I have so much respect for both of them and all that they have done and continue to do for their family. My heart is heavy when I think about their path ahead.

I also visited briefly with Kady, Destin, and Rylan. Meeting Bob and Glenda's family brings the tragedy of their accident over a year ago into full focus. Kady is still confined to her bed but was in good spirits and is working hard to regain her speech. Destin and Rylan, while still recovering from their own injuries, were by her side which allowed Bob and I to have some time alone to catch up.

Bob plans to come to the Mini in Lexington Sept 26th-29th and I know he would love to see all his 589th Brothers, so please do your best to be there!

Please continue to keep Bob and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

I love you Bob!

Just want to let everybody know that Larry Westmoreland had a mild heart attack a couple of days ago. He is resting at home but is pretty weak. They think it was medication related.

Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

I received my coin and it is really great.

Thank You Master Sergeant Jim Kelly,Company D.second platoon. for this laminated 8x10 photo of our platoon aboard the USS POPE.This is one of the greatest gift I have ever received in my life. I want to pass a copy of this photo to every brother from our platoon at the mini reunion in Harrisburg,PA.Sept 5-8.so 2nd platoon guys try and make an extra effort to be there.Our platoon leader Lt.Hegeman will also be there,how great is that! Does anyone from the other 3 company platoons have a picture from onboard the POPE? if you do please contact me,Bruce Rittschof at 815-566-2351, I will also make prints of them and pass them out at this reunion,remember this is a Batt. reunion and all are invited.Thank You again Jim Kelly! man, did you make me happy.

Got my COIN. I love it Thanks Perry. Hope to see every one soon. Patsy is in bad health. We On't go any place very much.

Challenge Coin arrived yesterday!

Wishing a safe and happy 4th of July to all my brothers of the 589th as we celebrate the founding of the United States of America.
Welcome home Tommy McLain

Thanks Perry, I got my challenge coin today. It is very well done and very beautiful. I will be proud to carry it!

Thanks Larry for the Hello;When I got back from Nam, I stayed in Cali with one of my brothers,I loved it out there,but longed for Wisc Hey Willie I have tried to call you many times but your mail box is always full. I would like to talk with you again. call me please. 815-566-2351 if I miss your call leave a message. I'll return the call.

Please Keep posting or send to me directly when we have the Passing of a member or they are in a serious situation with one of our members or a member of their families so I can send a card or message on behalf of the entire association in addition to our individual messages. J T McLain W.H.Bro. JT.McLain

Thanks Perry , received my coin today. Super nice !! Once again Thanks.