Duty

[mikegc]

Originally Posted by cobra_1

Mike,

Thanks for the great ride report. This was forwarded to me by my old Vietnam platoon leader, he is sending it on to other helicopter veterans like myself to share, because it was so good. Means a lot that you cared to share this with others.

Keep the rubber side down and great read.

Lonnie Heidtke
Crew Chief Black Widow 474
"C" 101st AHB, 101st Airborne
68-69, Republic of South Vietnam
Chippewa Falls, WI

From your moniker on the forum, Cobra_1, I thought you might enjoy this photo of an AH-1 Cobra:



This was one of the "Rebels" birds out of Phu Loi.

Mike

[jeffrey hamlin]

Thanks for sharing your story...and thanks to you and everyone else that has served their country. God Bless.

[CarrGS]

I've had the pleasure of knowing MikeGC for all 29 years of my young life. He has been a close friend of my family and specifically of my father ever since I can remember growing up. I have never really realized it, but in some way, he has contributed to my love of motorcyles. He and my father used to ride Harley's before he "saw the light" and started riding BMWs. They have stories they could share about each other that I am 100% certain the moderator would not allow...

I knew he was an inmate, but had never come across any ride reports or stories of his until today when he shared this link with me. The stories and pictures tell of truly heroic events that unfortunately are rarely depicted in today's "news" about our country and the war. I can tell you that after reading this story, I know why he is such a valued friend of my father. . In responding to PirateSeaCaptain, I can assure you "he has made a difference in many people's lives." I have seen it first hand.

Thank you to all the men and women that have sacrificed for this great country, and thank you MikeGC for sharing your story with us 'young folk' who may not have served our country, but will never forget those that have.

[jorrie]

Great rr ex soldier loves it

[seabee1]

cobras served in vietnam. huh.

i didn't know they'd been in service for that long.

when i went on convoy into iraq when we breached the berms back in 03, i was concerned about enemy contact. always on alert. every moving thing fell under my sights. when the cobras flew over our convoy at about 50 feet, i relaxed visibly. it was such a great feeling to know that those gunships were flying ahead of us, clearing the way.

thanks to those who cleared the way for us.

[PersonaNonGrata]

very cool report. Love the old pics, fascinating and inspiring stories. Great job, thanks for your service.

[georev]

Mike
Great post... Marge cried the whole way thru the story.
Best
George

[14Traits]

Just stumbled upon this ride report.

All I can say is Bravo Zulu!

And that you have the respect of this Marine.

[mikegc]

Originally Posted by 14Traits

Just stumbled upon this ride report.

All I can say is Bravo Zulu!

And that you have the respect of this Marine.

You're very kind. I really appreciate that!

Mike

[DanVFR]

Truly amazing report, thank you for sharing.

[Usually2Up]

Mike, Sir!,

What I can say but Thank You. God Bless You!

[mikegc]

You gentlemen humble this former trooper. I re-read this today after its dormancy of many months. Frankly, those long ago experiences on the other side of the world, in some ways, seem almost like yesterday. A quick glance in the mirror bring me back to reality! I realize how fortunate I've been in my associations with people of worth. They influenced me and I've tried to earn their respect by never letting my fellow soldiers down. There is no greater honor than to walk among them today.

Thank you for your kind comments, gentlemen.

Mike

[whistlepig]

Excellant RR Mike. I salute you and all who serve. Now, stand down soldier and sleep soundly. You've earned it.

[Steve canyon]

Wonderful story and pictures.....

Thanks for taking the time..

[mikegc]

Originally Posted by Steve canyon

Wonderful story and pictures.....

Thanks for taking the time..

Thank you, Steve, for the kind words.

Mike