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COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 1 cibassoc.com
“Duty, Honor, Country” General Douglas MacArthur
DEDICATED TO ALL COMBAT INFANTRYMEN
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 2 cibassoc.com
AL SERRATO
National Commander
GREETINGS Combat Warriors! What a great convention and reunion in
Colorado Springs. Warriors, families, friends. It was also a celebration of
our successes over the past 10 months.
• 3 new CIB companies. Never have so many companies been char-
tered within a 10 month period. CIB Company 102 – Orange County,
CIB Company 103 – San Antonio, CIB Company 104 – Wisconsin.
Three more planned within the next year!
• Our original CIB logo has been restored!!! No more Mighty Mike.
Patches, membership cards, can proudly carry our original logo.
• Our trademark has been approved. The name Combat Infantrymen’s
Association will be used on our advertising and our contracts. Any-
one using our trademark name will be the subject of a lawsuit for
trade infringement.
• Our general assembly was very proactive. Members enthusiastically
discussed and made motions. Delegates participated in helping to
shape who we are. It was a clear demonstration of participatory de-
mocracy.
• A Combat Infantry Badge national monument was proposed for Ar-
lington National Cemetery. It was unanimously embraced. We are in
the pre-planning stage. This will be a long-range undertaking involv-
ing permits, architects, fund raising. Donor names will be perma-
nently carried on our website.
• Our Convention Book was a huge success. It is available online at
www.cibassoc.com. A hardcopy can also be mailed to you for $10 to
cover printing costs and postage.
CONVENTION SPEAKER p 5 SCHOLARSHIP ESSAY p 6 CONVENTION REPORTS p 7-14 MEMBER SPOTLIGHT p 15-16 CONVENTION HI-LITES p 17-25 FIELD TRIP VETFEST p 26 NEW MEMBERS P 27-30 TAPS p 31 LEGACY PROGRAM p 32
______________________________________
NEWSLETTER GUDELINES * Please send articles/letters as a text document attached to an email, or simply in the body of an email * Photos: JPEG Preferred, At-tached to an email, not in the body of a text document Mailed copies are $5.00 ______________________________________
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FULL PAGE $300 1/2 PAGE $150 1/4 PAGE $ 75 Your ad is published in all 3 of our newsletters ______________________________________ Link to Convention Book: Click Here Link to Convention Minutes Click Here
Link to Financial Report Click Here Link to EBoard and Commanders Contact Info Click Here
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 3 cibassoc.com
Josh Rand-Castillo - Deputy National Commander
Shot Over,
As an Afghanistan and Iraq Combat Infantryman, I, like all of you take pride in hav-
ing been awarded the Combat Infantryman's Badge (CIB). Though, it was not until I
left the Army for good that I actually wanted to be involved with Veteran’s Service
Organizations.
When I was working in office environments it was often a difficult place to connect with colleagues on a per-
sonal level, there’s nothing like getting super excited about danger to only be looked at like a geek. I first
joined the Combat Infantrymen's Association because I thought it was a great place to be surrounded by like-
minded men. After years of being in the Association, I have had many opportunities to meet many members,
non-members, and supporters. Unlike the VFW, DAV, or American Legion, this is one organization where I
can always find someone I can relate with - be it WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Panama, Gulf War Combat Infantry-
man.
Over the last couple of years being an active member I have really enjoyed filling various roles and learning
from other members that have been actively involved for years. I have heard many of the successes that pre-
vious leadership had, and I will do my best to support the Association, and National Commander Serrato fulfil
his vision of maximizing the Combat Infantrymen's Association in fundraising, recruiting, and membership
retention.
All that being said, I hope to be a link to attract Afghanistan and Iraq CIB recipients to the Association. By be-
ing with one of the first units to be awarded the CIB in the Global War on Terror, I carry some weight with the
younger DICKs (Dedicated Infantry Combat Killers) and can capture their attention long enough to tell them
about the benefits of joining the CIAssoc.
I look forward to serving each of you the best I can.
Shot Out,
Joshua Rand-Castillo
Deputy National Commander
11C Indirect Fire Infantryman
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 4 cibassoc.com
Frederick Bourjaily- Chief of Staff Bourjaily
Dear Combat Infantrymen, Family Members and Supporters!
I want to thank all you who worked so hard to make our Convention in
Colorado Springs, Colorado productive, inspirational and truly enjoya-
ble!
We accomplished a great deal during our eBoard and General Membership meetings, as you
will soon see on the following pages. The energy generated during the convention was palpa-
ble as the attendees engaged the leadership with well thought out ideas that will ensure a
secure future for the Combat Infantrymen's Association.
From my personal perspective the most important facet during the Convention was the deep
sense of camaraderie felt by everyone in attendance.
Our "Rally Point" for the 2020 Convention will be in Orange, California located in beautiful Or-
ange County. I sincerely hope to see all of you in Orange next year!
Commander Serrato and your eBoard members are planning an event that will bring you back
year after year. I promise you will not be disappointed!
"Follow Me"
CSM (R) Fred F. Bourjaily, USA Chief of Staff California State Commander Combat Infantrymen's Association
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 5 cibassoc.com
Convention Speaker – Anthony Archer
Combat Warriors!
Commander Serrato and I had the pleasure of meeting with CSM (R) Anthony Archer, Senior Veterans Liaison
for Congressman Doug Lamborn, Colorado's 5th District. The meeting took place at the office of Congress-
man Lamborn during our Annual Convention in Colorado Springs, Colorado. We are very grateful to CSM (R)
Archer, for taking time out of his busy day to meet with us on such short notice!
CSM (R) Archer spoke to us about how we can use VA approved urgent care facilities and Congressman Lam-
born's involvement on the Readiness Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee. This com-
mittee controls one third of the defense budget! He provided us with links to guides that will help us pre-
pare for and deliver testimony before congress on behalf of our members. The last issue we discussed, was
the mechanism we would use to have the Combat Infantrymen's Association Congressionally Charted under
"Title 36 ". The VFW, American Legion and similar organizations have all been Congressionally Chartered and
the Commander and I believe having that designation will be useful when he begins testifying before Con-
gress. Finally, Mr. Archer advised us that VA Hospitals and VARC are required to meet with Veteran associa-
tions on a regular basis for input from Veterans.
The information CSM (R) Archer provided was extremely useful and will have a direct impact on the Combat
Infantrymen's Association.
Respectfully submitted,
CSM (R) Fred Bourjaily, USA Chief of Staff/California State Commander Combat Infantrymen's Association
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 6 cibassoc.com
National Scholarship Program – FIRST PLACE WINNER 2019
Joshua Forsythe
What basic principles were involved in our nation’s founding? Do they still exit today?
Our Nation's Founding Principals are Individual Liberty, Federalism, Limited Gov-
ernment, Representative Government, Private Property, All Men Are Created
Equal, Separation of Powers/ Checks and Balances, and along with the ten articles
of the Bill of Rights form the very foundation and central values upon which our
country was founded. Our Nation's Founding Principles are still existing today, albeit in some cases in a warped form.
Every day, so-called progressives seem to reject the existence of our self-evident truths inscribed within the Declara-
tion of Independence. At the same time judges legislate from their benches to restrict our given constitutive freedoms.
Almost every year Congress and the Supreme Court act to decide constitutional matters that threaten to reshape our
nation into something that our Christian “Founding Fathers” would not have permitted, or much less fostered. I believe
it is past time for us (“we the people”) to determine if we still believe in self-governance. Then, if we do believe, are we
willing to defend those governing principles? Stated in another way, is our country's government still of the people, by
the people, and for the people, or is it to become a quasi dictatorship for our own good? The answer to this question
will determine the kind of nation that we want to leave behind for the coming generations. I still believe in America,
but remember Edmund Burke once showed us that: “Those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat it.” And,
history too often has taught us that the world is full of despots who want to control us. Should we let them? I think not.
May God Bless America!
As a recipient of the Combat Infantrymen's Association Scholarship I wanted to thank the officers and membership of
this great organization for helping make my college education a reality. Your generous donation will help me to accom-
plish my goals of obtaining a degree at Lake Erie College (LEC). These funds have given me the ability to focus on my
coursework for this school year with less concern for finances. I knew that LEC would allow me to stay close to my fami-
ly and receive a nationally recognized education. I am currently registered for the Bachelor of Arts in Sports Manage-
ment from the School of Business with a minor in coaching. My future goal is to work in the field of college/
professional athletics.
Once again I want to thank you for your generous scholarship. I understand that without organizations who are benev-
olent and caring, like yours, a college education would not be possible for a student like me. Knowing that someone
else cares about my education motivates me to strive extra hard for excellence. I have been truly touched by your gen-
erosity and hope to one day give back just as you have. Again, I would like to thank you.
Sincerely,
Joshua T. Forsythe
Erin Coffey with her grandfather, long time CIB member Larry Eckard. In addition to
having served as the long-term editor of the Blue Badge Newsletter of the Combat
Infantrymen’s Association, Larry is theadjutant of the American Legion Post 544.
Erin was also selected as the winner of the Post 544 Scholarship program for the
2019-2020 school year.
National Scholarship Program – SECOND PLACE WINNER 2019
Erin Coffey
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 7 cibassoc.com
CIB Company 101 – La Mirada. Greetings, Combat Warriors. CHANGE OF COM-
MAND. On June 29, 2019, members of our La Mirada Chapter attended a historic Change-
of-Command Ceremony. On this day the U.S. Army - first time in history, selected a fe-
male as a Division Commander of an Infantry Division. Major General Laura L. Yeager as-
sumed command of the 40th Infantry Division, Los Alamitos, California. Her military ca-
reer began in May 1986 after receiving her commission through the Reserve Officer
Training Corps Program at the California State University – Long Beach. Her numerous
medals include Senior Army Aviator Badge, Parachutist Badge and the Order of St.
Al Serrato CDR Company 101
CIB Company 102 – Orange County. Greetings Combat Warriors. ARMY BIRTHDAY.
On Friday, June 14, 2019 the CIB Company sponsored a well-attended event celebrating
the 244th birthday of the United States Army. Among the attendees were Brigadier
General Denton Knapp – Deputy Commander of the 40th Infantry Division, Congress-
man Lou Correa – member of the Veteran Affairs Committee, Board of Trustee Law-
rence Labrado, members of the Vietnamese – American Uniform Services Association.
More than 65 persons attended this solemn yet festive event. Steve Walker CDR Company 102
244 years - U.S. Army Birthday Where’s the Food! Natl CDR Al Serrato, Brigadier General Den-ton Knapp, Chief of Staff Fredrick Bourjaily,
SFC Richard Alvarez
Master of Ceremonies Chief-of-Staff Fredrick Bourjaily
U.S. Congressman Lou Correa Cake Cutting, Oldest - Billy Hall, Youngest - CPT Lam Truong
Laura L. Yeager Major General
Change of Command 40th Infantry Division
Los Alamitos, CA
L-R: CoS Fred Bourjaily, MG Laura
Yeager, Billy Hall, Lori Bourjaily
Billy Hall with Noboru Seki –
WWII Veteran with the famed 442nd RCT
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 8 cibassoc.com
CIB Company 103 – San Antonio. On July 13, 2019, Tony Martinez organized the
first meeting of a Company in San Antonio. The group was unanimous in their interest to
start the new Company. It was a wonderful re-union of old comrades who had been to-
gether previously under a since dormant Combat Infantrymen’s Association Company.
Tony – Division Commander, was elected as Company Commander. At the annual con-
vention held in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the Company was approved for its Charter
on August 24th. Spouses were encouraged to attend making the meeting more like a
family event.
Tony Martinez CDR Company 103
A Reunion of Texan Combat Warriors
Our ladies – always a part of our Combat Warriors
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 9 cibassoc.com
CIB COMPANY 104 – WISCONSIN. Paul Birschbach, Vietnam War Veteran, demonstrated
his continued fitness to serve by organizing the CIB’s newest Company during the last 10
months. He was hell-bent on succeeding and succeed he did. CIB COMPANY 104 – WISCONSIN,
becomes the third CIB Company that has been organized during the past 10 months. A historic
record for our association. About our newest Commander:
Paul enlisted in 1967 and began his tour in Vietnam on June 4, 1968. C, 2nd Battalion, 22nd Divi-
sion of the 25th Infantry “Tropic Lightning.” He was a gunner on a 50 caliber machine gun.
Wounded on May 6, 1968 at Cu Chi by a spray of AK 47 bullets to the neck and loss of two fin-
gers on a combat operation. Following his honorable discharge, Paul worked as a carpenter for over 25 years even built
his house in 1976 in the village of Mt. Calvary, Wisconsin.
Paul set about organizing this newest Company contacting existing CIB members by email and regular mail. He called all
the members on the state’s roster. Paul visited many members, to show them that the CIB does care for all its mem-
bers. In 2000, Paul and other residents purchased 43 flags to display on the streets of Mt. Calvary. Each year he and the
Committee put the Flags in the Village before Memorial Day and later take the Flags down after Labor Day.
His 1st meeting on August 17th was a success with 14 members signing up for their 1st Wisconsin Chapter. On August
24, 2019, Paul presented the Charter to the National Commander at the National Convention in Colorado Springs, Colo-
rado. Next meeting is scheduled for Saturday Oct.12th in Stevens Point. A noon meal is planned at the Holiday Inn –
Amber Grill.
Paul Birschbach CDR Company 104
Paul Birschbach — Vietnam 1968 CDR Al Serrato presenting Paul Birschbach his new charter
Seated Richard Daske and Phil Moore, Standing Ron
Holmes, Jared Nagel, Steve Mielke, Paul Birschbach
Seated Phil Moore, Matt Kempainen, John Hoeft. Standing
Steve Mielke, Richard Daske, Paul Birschbach, Ron Holmes
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 10 cibassoc.com
Adjutant—The Dan Sankoff Company CIAssoc (Div 1 FL A 1 1 ) - Robert Wittenberg
I enlisted 28Jun1999 I did my Basic & AIT at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. B co. 795MP BN
My First duty station was with the 527th MP co in Wiesbaden, Germany. We deployed to
Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo in Nov 2000, I spent Dec of 2000 in Sophia, Bulgaria on a separate
Deployment. Returned to Kosovo for peacekeeping operations. March 2001 parts of my Pla-
toon were attached to B co. 1/325th ABN INF and an SF unit for a five-day assault. We con-
ducted search and destroy missions routing out multiple enemy emplacements. Returned to
Germany May 2001. Reported to my second duty station at Fort Gordon, Ga. Assigned to the
35th MP DET. Providing Law Enforcement duties. Promoted to SGT/E-5 Feb 2004. Assigned as
the Special Reactions Team leader. Oct 2004, I returned to Germany this time I was assigned to
the 630th MP co in Bamberg. Volunteered to Join the 212th MP co. we deployed to Afghanistan MAR 2005-APR 2006.
Assigned to Combined Forces Command- Afghanistan doing Protective Services Detail. On 6th JAN 2006 My Unit was
attacked three of us were injured, one med-evaced. My remaining team was evaced by ground. After returning to Ger-
many some slots opened for 173rd ABN BDE. I went to Jump School NOV 2006. In Mar 2007 we deployed to Afghani-
stan this time I was sent to Jalalabad until Jul 2008. I completed this tour still injured from my previous deployment.
Those injuries ended my career and in Oct 2009 I was Medically Retired from active duty. Joined the C.I.A. 2009 as a
support member under my dad Joe Liles. Aug 2019 Appointed as the Adjutant of Combat Infantry Association Co. A 1-1.
My awards include: Basic Parachutists Badge. Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Achievement Medal (4), Joint Mer-
itorious Unit Award (1OLC), Good Conduct Medal (3KNTS), National Defense Service Medal, Afghan Campaign Medal
(2BSS), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal (1BSS), NCO Professional Development Rib-
bon (2), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (4), NATO Medal (2BSS). Drivers Badge (WV)
Wittenberg, Robert SGT USA MP (RET)
Robert Wittenberg Adjutant—The Dan Sankoff Company
Div 1 FL A 1 1 (in honor of the late Dan Sankoff) is renamed Dan Sankoff Compa-
ny. This Company had to relocate a rather large and important Monument and Memorial Paver
installation to a new long term, more secure location in downtown Fort Myers, Florida. It has
been a couple years in the making and has required significant volunteer hours from our dedicat-
ed membership. We have also been blessed with local businesses( honcho’d by Jon Romine) do-
nating labor and materials to facilitate moving and relocating our large 2 foot by 2 foot by 6 foot
long base Stone. Mel Gillenwater stepped up to the task of replacing the severely damaged origi-
nal 6 foot long C I B MEDAL. He specced out the size and design for 2 new cast aluminum C I B
medals 6 foot long by 2 foot tall. The 2 pieces are mounted back to back above the 1 ton base
rock, effectively making a solid permanent 2 sided C I B medal Monument. Mel still owns the aluminum casting
patterns and other of our Companies can take advantage of Mel’s investment and time if they want a similar Monu-
ment in their city etc.. Contact anyone of us in Co.A 1 1, (Dan Sankoff Company) for info or assistance. Earl Kennedy
donated his warehouse space and personal time to help several of us, ( Ray Randlett, Dan Bernard, Jim Connors, Jack
Wagner, Bill Batty, Robert Wittenberg and yours truly) refurbish, re-letter the original pavers. All 740 of them, hours of
tedious work. Earl will host there again our October 23rd meeting and paver refurb completion party.
The new location of the Memorial is in front of Fort Myers’ newest Fire Station downtown by permanently
lighted Flags with 24/7 video security. The refurbished (740 each of 4” by 8” engraved memorial pavers) are being in-
stalled by a local business Jon Romine is curating for donated time and labor, suspense date end of November. Our Ad-
jutant, Robert Wittenberg, will be offering new Memorial Pavers to be laser engraved with your loved ones name etc. .
Robert only has 92 pavers available, so don’t miss out, when they are gone it’s done.
Jerry Frease Div 1 FL State Commander
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 11 cibassoc.com
DIVISION 2 New York State Commander Paul Gill serves military veterans as a
Department Service Officer with the Disabled American Veterans at the Bronx Vet-
erans Administration. He also serves as a Vet Court Mentor and member of the
executive board of Bronx Veterans Court Mentors.
Paul earned his CIB in Iraq 2005 . Service with Rainbow Division 42nd ID Fighting
69th Infantry Regiment—From Bull Run to Baghdad. Div 2 NY Members contribut-
ed the photos below and on the next page for inclusion in the Blue Badge! Way to
go Div 2 NY!
Div 2 Commander Paul Gill recently met with Congressman Lee Zeldin (R-NY) 82nd
Airborne Iraq Veteran to discuss issues facing today’s Veterans.
CIB Monument in Fort Myers, FL in its new location! Way to go members of the Dan Sankoff Company!
Paul Gill, Div 2 CDR
NY State Commander
Bruce Brenner, Company Commander
Div 2 NY A 2 1
Div 2 NY A 2 1 — Bruce Brenner, Company Commander of the newest
company in the state of New York. They signed their Blue Signature
Form in 2018.
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 12 cibassoc.com
(2019) National Veterans Court Boot Camp National Harbor, MD (2019) National Veterans Court Boot
Camp with Hon. Robert Russell (right)
Founder of Veteran's Court and Jack
O'Connor founding Mentor Coordinator
FLASHBACK!!
New York H-2-1
(Headquarters) with
previous New York
State Commander
Dominic Esposito (far
left).
Div 2 NY State Commander Paul Gill, 2nd from left Div 2 NY State Commander Paul Gill is standing,
2nd from right- Operation Iraqi Freedom, 2004-
2005
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 13 cibassoc.com
New York dedication of CIB monument by members of NY HQ 2 1 Company. The Monument is part of Lasdon Park, and Veterans Memorial. Veterans Memorial is a pathway, known as The Trail of Honor, dedicated to Veterans of Westchester County —The American Revolution to Desert Storm
DIV 2 NE A 1 1 COMMADNDER BERT GUARNIERI ACCEPTING AWARD FROM NATIONAL COMMANDER AL SERRATO
DIV 2 NE A 1 1 Rhode Island. Company Commander Albert Guarnie-
ri, is shown accepting the award for Outstanding COMPANY OF THE
YEAR. The award was made jointly to both Commander Guarnieri and
James D’Agastino for their superb organizing of the Combat Infantry
Badge birthday event.
The event was packed with friends and members. Five new members
were sworn into the Combat Infantrymen’s Association. The rain that day
did not deter the enthusiastic crowd who were determined to witness
the gala event. Commander Guarnieri presented CDR Serrato with spe-
cially designed dog tags starting with 001.
Bruce Brenner, Company Commander of the newest
New York State Company—Div 2 NY A 2 1 holding the
Blue signature Form in 2018
Jerry Adler Div 3 IL State Commander
Division 3 Illinois— 14 Members attended the September meeting in Wheaton, Illi-
nois: Jerry Adler, Irwin Fischman, Pasquale Caputo, Bill Cross, Ed Marco, Jim Wisniowicz,
Tony Bezouska, Tom Bezouska, Tom Rodak, Ed Kasper, Jerome Zdancewicz, Bill Wilds, Ed
Delaloye, and Bill Lyman. Three female supporters attended as well!
Commander Adler, at our 2019 Convention, requested $1,000 in seed money to kick-off
the project to fund, design and build a large CIB monument at Arlington Cemetery,
Washington, D.C. His vision was enthusiastically supported and Commander Adler left
with a check for $1,500!
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 14 cibassoc.com
Division 4, Kansas — Meet Col John Halladay, State Commander for Div 3 Kansas. Col Halladay
requests that all members from Kansas please get in touch with him so a plan can be formulated for the
next meeting! Here’s what John says about his time in the Army: I enlisted in the US Army while still in
high school at age 17, with the IA National Guard, Co D, 168th Inf, 42nd Div, Marshalltown, IA. Started to
work for M&STL Rwy in June 1952. While close enough, he drilled with the unit, sometimes with other
units in the State. From May-Sept 1957, being promoted to SFC, I went to Ft Benning for Advanced NCO
Training. I was the Platoon Leader of the same Heavy Weapons 81 Mortars. I was commissioned Infantry
on 15 Oct 1957. transferred to Brty B, 175th , Madiso, MN on 13 Oct 1958. Applied fo AD and ordered to
report to Ft Sill, OK on 27 Nov 1961. was assigned to 1st Missile Bn, 18th Arty 2/4 Group—Little John Mis-
sile Unit. 13 Feb 1962 was assigned to Brty B, 3d Msl (SGT) 38th Artillery 1st Missile Bn. On 29 Oct 1963
reported to UNAINT (Intelligence Training), Ft Holabird, MD. From there report for duty as the S2 Advisor
for S2 in Tam Ky, Quang Tin Province, VN on 29 Mar 64.
Took another training course and moved to Ft Hood, TX 11 Sept 1965, assigned to
6/92 FA, 2nd Armored Div.
1 Nov 1966 moved up Asst G-2 (XO), 2nd Armored Div. On 3 Sept 1967
assigned as Advisor to 6th Bn, 28th FA in Mayguaz, PR (USAR), HQ USAADVGP
(USAR), San Juan, PR. 1 Mar 1968 the unit was changed to 266 OrdCo (AMMO) DS/
GS. 5 July 1969 went with unit to Redstone, AL for their annual training. On 10 Aug
1969 received orders for Vietnam again, and reported to 25th Inf Div, Cu Chi, VN as
asst G2 Operations. Returned to Ft Sill, OK on 5 Dec 1970 last unit XO, Staff & Facul-
ty Bn. On 4 May 1972 was RERAD. Too many officers after Vietnam they said. 28
Dec 1972 was assigned as Unit Technician (S1 Unit Assginment), later Asst Comman-
dant after promoation to LTC. I was promoted to COL 14 Dec 1980 and moved to
USARCPAC. Last assignment was assignment as LNO, 5th US Army to check USAR
and KSARNG unit for mobilization preparation. Retired 10 June 1992 with 1st Inf Div
John Halladay Div 4 KS
State Commander
Our Monument is on the corner of 10th St
and Gage (Gage Park), Topeka, Kansas.
Div 5 OK HQ 11 is running a local campaign to raise funds to help the residents of the Sulphur Veterans Center, located in Sulphur OK. The Sulphur Veterans Center is locat-ed on a 17-acre site in Southern Oklahoma's outdoor paradise. The center overlooks the Chickasaw National Recreations Area, one of Oklahoma's most beautiful areas. Members of Co HQ 1 1 are selling tickets for chances to win a 10-ft Jon boat on a trail-er. The boat and trailer come with an electric trolling motor, a batter for the motor, two life jackets and a paddle. The boat was displayed on September 28 at the local PEC Day in Ada, OK. All proceeds will go to buy items for the residents of the Veterans Center. Tickets are still available for ten dollars each. Contact Company Commander Col JL Rhodes at 580.320.8600 or Company Adjutant Michael McRea at 580.332.0415 if you would like to pur-chase a ticket.
J L Rhodes Div 6 OK
State Commander DIV 6 OK HQ 1 1 C
Company Commander
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 15 cibassoc.com
Div 5 WA HQ 1 1 — The Washington Chapter of the Combat Infantrymen’s Associ-
ation has become involved with several different activities over the years. We set
up a recruiting table six times a year on both Fort Lewis and McChord AFB loca-
tions to raise money for those activities. They include giving several monetary
scholarships to high school ROTC cadets, purchasing and installing 40 TV sets to an
old soldiers home and designing and emplacing memorial plaques at the veterans
cemetery and on the “Iron Mike” statue of an Infantryman at Fort Lewis. For years
we have attended military appreciation week and marched in the Auburn WA vet-
erans day parade as well. We have also taken the old soldiers annually to a profes-
sional baseball game.
Meet CDR Robinson: I completed HS in 1968 from North Idaho. I was sure
of several things, one of which was I DID NOT want to go into the military!! The an-
swer to that problem seemed to be – go where no one knew me i.e. New Orleans LA. I was right in that New
Orleans was indeed a GREAT placed for a young single guy. After only five years the draft board sent an FBI
man to my office to explain to me that I was REQUIRED to sign up for the draft. For me, that was an attention
getter so I did the obvious thing, went to the Army recruiting station and signed up RA the day prior to being
drafted. So the Army was very sensitive to both my desires and needs, Sent me to Ft Benning for jump school
and right on to Ft Campbell and the 101st Abn Div. They too went out of their way to get me away from all
that fun stuff in New Orleans and sent me on to Viet Nam to enjoy a life in nature for a year and share it with
various peoples, plant life, bugs and animals. Upon returning to New Orleans I did the obvious and reenlisted,
and immediately went to work for the LA recruiters as their supply Sgt. For the next 20 years I was assigned
to various units to include Special Forces, two times with MI, once with PSYOP and once with USAGY in Ko-
rea.
Jake Robinson Div 5 Commander
Div 5 WA State Commander Div 5 WA HQ 1 1
Company Commander
AUBURN VETERANS DAY PARADE
As Americans, we enjoy the blessings of freedom peace
and representative government because our veterans
were willing to risk their lives. We are forever grateful to
these selfless individuals. Since 1965, the City of Auburn,
WA has honored our veterans with a special observance
and parade. It is recognized as one of the few regional
sites in the United States. The parade has become one of
the largest Veterans Day Parades west of the Mississippi.
This year the parade will pay special tribute to the service
and sacrifice of those who served in the Vietnam War. The mile long parade boasts over 200 entries, includ-
ing over 30 marching bands, drill teams, honor guards, military entries, floats, antique cars, military vehicles
and community groups. This year’s parade found us in a soaking rain. It seems that folks were willing to brave
the weather just for a look at those snappy looking men of the Combat Infantrymen’s Association lead by
John Chestnut’s 1954 Citron. As applicable verbiage seems to fail here I submit the above photo!
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 16 cibassoc.com
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Deven Merriman, SPC Retired, has created a unique therapy to reduce PTSD symptoms amongst Veter-
ans within the state of Colorado – the “Veteran Suicide Awareness Jeep” program. It isn’t uncommon
for Soldiers with a Combat Infantrymen’s Badge (CIB) to have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and Depression, Survivors Guilt or some form of mental health issues com-
ing back from a combat deployment. As many of our Veterans are returning home they are often dis-
charged with mental health issues and then overmedicated by the VA. Veterans will often go into isola-
tion when they get out because they don’t have the same type of support system they had while serv-
ing, they don’t have any hobbies to get them out of the house, in the community and around other
Veterans.
Deven started this cause in 2017 shortly after one of his Delta Company Brothers SSG Daniel Stein took his own life. As a Suicide
survivor in 2008, Deven realized that he could use his Jeep as a tool to encourage Veterans to reach out, get into treatment and
unite through off-roading. His primary Mission & Goal is to weaponize Vets to Combat the Veteran Suicide rate through Free Off-
road Trail Rides or Hiking Therapy Events for Veterans and their families.
Retired SPC Deven C. Merriman received his C.I.B while assigned to the 10th Mountain Division, 1st Battalion 87th Infantry Regi-
ment, Delta Company 1st Platoon as a Squad Leader in Afghanistan in 2010. SPC Deven C. Merriman served Honorably from 2007-
2012 with the 10th MTN until being medically discharged for PTSD. Countries assigned while in the US Army: Iraq: 2008 (IRQ); Af-
ghanistan 2010-11 (AFG)
The Veteran Suicide Awareness Jeep websites can be reached at the following addresses: Gmail: VeteranSuicideAwareness-Jeep@gmail.com;Facebook:www.facebook.com/VeteranSuicideAwarenessJeep/; Instagram: www.instagram.com/veteransuicideawarenessjeep/
Deven Merriman
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 17 cibassoc.com
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT—LUKE BURGAN
I was a child at the time. Maybe four or five years old, but I re-
member this clearly. My dad had a shadow box, full of all the
awards and decorations that he received throughout his time in
the Vietnam War. I was standing in his room looking at his shad-
ow box. I didn’t want to get caught. My dad wasn’t someone
that my brothers and I needed to fear, but he was strict about
particular things. Wandering into his room wasn’t really accepta-
ble behavior. He; however, calmly asked what I was looking at. I
wanted to know the story behind all the shiny and colorful items
that made up the inside of his shadow box. My dad focused my
attention to one badge, which was located at the top. He told me
that was the only one that really mattered. The musket is always
cocked and ready to be fired. And, it means that an infantryman
unquestionably performed his duties. He tried to put it in the
simplest terms that my young mind could understand. This
badge, of course, was the Combat Infantryman’s Badge. Since
that young age I wanted one.
Fast forward to the year 2012, and I’m 22 years old. I’m in Af-
ghanistan, and Staff Sergeant Darren Garcia is pinning my CIB on
my chest. I always knew the book definition of what the criteria
was to earn a CIB. The word “naive” is too small a word to de-
scribe the difference between knowing that definition, and then
understanding that definition. I gave my dad a phone call when I
was afforded the opportunity. He asked, “is the musket still
cocked and ready to be fired”? Yes, dad, yes it is.
I attended the 2019 Combat Infantryman’s Association Conven-
tion in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It was immediately obvious
that I was the youngest grunt there. Which makes for an inter-
esting story because I quickly befriended,
Chester, the oldest member at the conven-
tion. Chester earned his CIB in WWII, then
went on to serve in Korea and Vi-
etnam. Serving both as an enlisted soldier,
and then as an officer. I have an immense
respect for the man. I am extremely grateful
for whatever it was that made us get along
so well. I will definitely be attending conven-
tions in the future. It doesn’t matter what
age you are, or what conflict you were a part
of. We all have something in common. It’s
truly an honor to be able to know the other
members of the Combat Infantryman’s Asso-
ciation.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT—CHESTER PETTEY
My name is Chester Pettey, and I live in Abita
Springs, Louisiana. I have attended a few other CIAs-
soc conventions, all of which are special to me. The
thing about this year’s convention that I will re-
member the most is the final bell service and invoca-
tion to close out the Saturday evening banquet. I
am a lifetime member of 3 different military associa-
tions. The closing ceremony was the most memora-
ble of all the conventions I have ever attended.
My fellow attendees were gracious, helpful
and friendly. I appreciated all the kind words from
all the members. Please extend my thanks and ap-
preciation to those who set up the convention, the
executive board, and the National Commander.
Congratulations on planning and executing a fine
fine event!
Luke Burgan, Afghanistan; 2012
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 18 cibassoc.com
Convention Hi-Lites
The 26th annual Convention of the Combat In-
fantrymen’s Association was held August 22-
25, 2019 at the Marriott Hotel in Colorado
Springs, CO.
THURSDAY: A welcoming reception was given
by National Commander Alfred Serrato. Key
speaker was Deputy Police Chief Adrian
Vasquez. The evening was spent reacquainting
with old friends and making new friends.
FRIDAY: Morning tour to the U.S. Air Force
Academy. Key stop – the uniquely designed, stained glass Cadet Chapel – most visited man-made tourist
attraction in Colorado. Next stop was Garden of the Gods – unique red rock formations. Famished, we
stopped for tasty sandwiches at the Trading Post – enjoying Navajo rugs and jewelry. Social hour began at
6PM followed by a dinner. Prior to dinner, a black clad person wearing a Panama hat entered the room. All
were astonished that the Ukelele player was Natl CDR Al Serrato who joyfully started playing “Honolulu Ba-
by.” An entertaining evening. LOL
SATURDAY: The General Assembly convened and several motions were made from the floor. Jerry Adler –
Company CDR from Chicago, requested $1,000 seed money to begin the process of creating a CIB monument
at Arlington Cemetery. A motion was passed to approve $1,500 for this important undertaking. The Minutes
of both the Executive board and the General Assembly can be found at our Website. Following the General
Assembly, CDR Serrato gave a seminar on Membership Recruitment and Retention. Members shared ideas
like pot luck meals and a business card with the monthly meeting date posted on the back of the card.
The Banquet was the Finale of the evening and what a Finale! Following the posting of the Colors by active
duty - CIB awarded soldiers from Fort Riley, Pledge of Allegiance and Prayer Invocation, CDR Serrato led the
entire audience in a solemn recitation of the Soldier’s Creed – a truly memorable event that visibly affected
everyone. Our featured speaker was Anthony Archer, Veteran Specialist with Congressman Doug Lamborn.
Following his presentation Awards were provided to the following:
Betsy Ross Award – Outstanding Support Member: Dina Coffey
Eisenhower Award – Outstanding Volunteer: Larry Eckard
Douglas MacArthur Award – Outstanding Company: Albert Guarnieri and James D’Agastino
The Colors were withdrawn and the meeting officially ended, HOWEVER, no one wanted to leave! Everyone
just so thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company. Smiles and laughter everywhere. Hasty notes exchanging
phone numbers. It was GRAND!
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 19 cibassoc.com
Thursday August 22 — Welcome Reception
The first planned event of the convention was the Welcome Reception, held Thursday afternoon. Following
welcome remarks by National Commander Al Serrato, the greetings from the Mayor of Colorado Springs were
delivered by Colorado Springs PD Deputy Chief Adrian Vasquez. Deputy Vasquez welcomed the association to
the city of Colorado Springs, and share with the group memories of his own military days, and how much the
city appreciates and welcomes Amerca’s Veterans. National Commander Alfred Serrato presented Deputy
Vasquez with a copy of the 2019 Convention Book to share with the mayor and his co-workers.
Melvin Richards Pasquale Caputo Jim Peterson
Luke Burgan James Wisniowicz John Gleason & Melvin Richards
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 20 cibassoc.com
Friday Tour
Lunch and Bus Tour of
Garden of the Gods.
Friday Evening
Larry Eckard-Look at those city tags! Entertainment provided by National Commander Al Serrato!
David Abler
Rodney Williams W Ross
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 21 cibassoc.com
United States Air Force Academy — Friday Tour
First stop of the morning was the United States Air Force Academy. As always, the grounds and visi-
tors center were great to see. Our group was fortunate enough to be one of the very last to visit the
Academy Chapel, as it closed two days after our visit for a four year, multi-million dollar renovation.
Paul Birschbach, David Abler, Johnnie Downs
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 22 cibassoc.com
Saturday Banquet
Luke Burgan Paul Birschbach David Abler
Paul Wallace Jim Peterson Earl Kennedy
Pasquale Caputo Melvin Richards John Gleason
Chester and Virginia Pettey Jake Robinson Family
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 23 cibassoc.com
Saturday Banquet
Deven Merriman Jack Coon W Ross
Johnnie Downs Albert Guarnieri Patrick Buckingham
Ted Jackson Tom and Nancy Rodak Rodney and Paula Williams
Lilly Ann, Al Serrato and Ben Voll Tony and Maria Martinez
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 24 cibassoc.com
Saturday Banquet
Larry and Brenda Eckard Jim Peterson James and Irene Wisniowicz
Chester and Virginia Pettey Nancy and Tom Rodak
Elaine and Jerry Adler Fred and Lori Bourjaily
James and Irene Wisniowicz Paul Birschbach and David Abler
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 25 cibassoc.com
Saturday Banquet
Anthony Archer Rodney Williams Rodney Williams and Luke Burgan
Acting Chaplain Johnnie Downs Chester Pettey Maria and Tony Martinez
(L – R) Tony Martinez, Fred Bourjaily, Albert Guarnieri, Alfred Serrato, and Pasquale Caputo
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 26 cibassoc.com
Saturday Banquet — Awards
Saturday Banquet-Honor Guard
Color guard members of 12th Infantry 2nd Brigade Combat team 4th Infantry Division
SPC Joshua Stark, SPC Geordan Howard, SPC Harris Guidry, SGT Derek Querze, SPC Calbe Prince, SSG Marcus
Shepperd, SSG Stilson Levon. Below, CIAssoc Chief of Staff Fred Bourjaily provided an association challenge
coin to each member of the Color Guard.
Cdr Alfred Serrato presented 3 awards to outstanding individuals
involved with the Combat Infantrymen’s Association. The Douglas
MacArthur Award is given to the individual who assumes leader-
ship positions, and produces outstanding results over. Larry Eck-
ard was our Newsletter Editor and Convention Chairman for dec-
ades The Betsy Ross Award is given to the outstanding Support
Member. Recipient Dina Coffey is in charge of our maintaining up
to date rosters, and data management; The Douglas MacArthur
Award goes to individuals creating high recognition for our Associ-
ation. Albert Guarnieri and James D’Agastino shared the award for
sponsoring the 75th birthday of the Combat Infantry Badge.
Larry Eckard and Cdr Al Serrato
Dina Coffey and Cdr Al Serrato Albert Guarnieri and Cdr Al Serrato
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 27 cibassoc.com
By Josh RandCastillo, Deputy National Commander
Never Leave a Fallen Comrade may be in the Ranger Creed but it’s VETFEST that encourages veterans to support each
other once we leave the military
It was at this event which was the Combat Infantrymen’s Association that we had our first ever booth. The booth was
supported by National Headquarters, and four members. The members who came out to represent our Association
were Duane and I (Iraq/Afghanistan CIB awardees), Larry, and Bill (Vietnam CIB Awardees). While at the event in
Brentwood, Tennessee all of us talked to a host of individuals and organizations. Each members’ interaction brought
more attention to our prestigious Association. One member in particular Larry even got our booth/ fireteam recognized
by the event organizer. Throughout the day each of us got to know one another. We each talked about where we
earned the CIB and what we are currently doing or had a career in. By the end of the day we had build a trust in one
another only Infantrymen can do. I can say Duane, Larry, and Bill are each inspiring. Their individual stories of are what
make the US Combat Infantrymen the best fighting force in the world.
Lastly, this event would not have happened if one of our own didn’t reach out and help coordinate. Larry deserves
much recognition in getting the Combat Infantrymen's Association involved in one of Nashville’s largest annual veter-
ans events.
VETFEST 2019 Brentwood, TN
Larry Reid, Laural Bowman, DNC Josh Rand-Castillo,
Duane O’Keefe, Billy Batty
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 28 cibassoc.com
Last Name First Name Service Combat Unit
AMBORN WAYNE VIET NAM 23RD (AMERICAL) INF DIV
BANKER CURTIS WWII CANNON CO, 103RD INF, 43RD INF DIV
BARNES BRICE VIET NAM 2-47 INF (MECH)
BARRY GEORGE VIET NAM MAGV VIET NAM ADVISORY TEAMS
BECKER DAVID WWII 78TH INF DIV 309TH RE (V)
BISHOP GORDON VIET NAM 4TH ID/ 10TH CAL
BONK EDWARD VIET NAM 101 ST AIRBORNE DIVISION
BRILL WILLIAM VIET NAM
BRINK MICHAEL VIET NAM CO C, 87TH INF
BROWN LESTER WWII
BUCHANAN DANIEL AFGHANISTAN CO A, 1-28 INF
BULVID RICHARD VIET NAM 1ST AIR CAV
CARMICHAEL DONALD KOREA
CARTER ALLEN VIET NAM 1ST SF
CHABRIER OSCAR VIET NAM K TROOP 2/7 CAV 1ST CAV DIV
CHIOLA ALBERT VIET NAM CO D, 2/327TH INF, 101ST ABN
COX CHARLES VIET NAM 3/21 196 LT INF BDE D COMPANY
DASEKE RICHARD VIET NAM E 1/8 CAV 1ST CAV DIV
DUBROSKY WILLIAM VIET NAM 1ST INF DIV, 9TH INF DIV
DUNPHY ROBERT VIET NAM B CO, 2/1 INF 196 LIB
EVANS THOMAS VIET NAM CO B 5TH 60 9TH INF
FURLONG, JR HENRY VIET NAM
GERTKEN WILLIAM VIET NAM C CO, 3RD BN, 1/35, 25TH INF DIV
GIERKE ROY VIET NAM A-2-327 INF 101ST ABN DIV
GLEASON JOHN KOREA CO I, 23RD INF REGT, 2ND DIV
GOSS JAMES IRAQ 1-133 IN
GOULET GERALD KOREA CO C, 19TH INF, 24TH DIV
GRAY CHRISTOPHER VIET NAM B. MCO. 2/502 101ST AIRBORNE
GRUICH MICHAEL VIET NAM CO B 1/2 INF
GYLES LEONARD WWII 69TH DIV, 271ST REGT
HANSEN DENNIS VIET NAM AMERICAL
HANSON ROBERT VIET NAM 1ST AIR CALVARY
HARRINGTON DAVID VIET NAM 3/47TH INF / 9TH INF DIV
HENDERSON RICHARD VIET NAM CHARLIE COMPANY 1ST BN 2ND INFAN-TRY 1ST INFANTRY DIVISION
HENDRICKS LAVATERES VIET NAM HHC 173RD ABN BDE (SEP)
HERMANSEN THOMAS VIET NAM MACV ADVISOR TEAM #31
WELCOME
MAT
The Combat Infantrymen’s Association cordially welcomes the following new members whose mem-
bership applications were approved between May 16, 2019 and Oct 15, 2019. members joining after
Oct 15, 2019 may not see their name in this issue, but it will be published in the next edition. We
welcome you and invite you to participate in association activities and business!
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 29 cibassoc.com
HERNANDEZ DERRICK IRAQ B CO, 2-7 IN REGT, 3RD ID (DETACHED TO 42ND ID)
HILL ROBERT M VIET NAM 9TH INF DIV
HONATH RONALD N VIET NAM C CO 4TH BN 9TH INF
HOOKS JAMES M VIET NAM 25TH INF DIV
HOUSTON IVAN J WWII 370 INF REGT, 92 INF DIV
HUGELE JOHN C VIET NAM APACHE TROOP 1/9 CAV - 1ST AIR CAV DIV
INGRAM SKI VIET NAM CO. C 1/503 INF. 173RD ABN BDE (SEP)
IRWIN DAVID J VIET NAM CO B, 3RD BN, 39TH INF
JANTZER RICHARD W VIET NAM 1ST BN, 18TH INF, 1ST ID
JENKINS SAMUEL A VIET NAM CO E, 2/1 RECON, 196TH INF
JONES NEAL H KOREA CO B 14 IR 25ID
KEATING PATRICK J VIET NAM CO A 1/12TH 1ST CAV
KOCH JAMES E VIET NAM CO C, 1/6TH 198TH LIB AMERICAL
KORNACK GEORGE KOREA
LANE JOHN F VIET NAM 1/4 CAV, 1ST ID,
LASSART JAMES A VIET NAM 2ND BN, 60TH INF, 9TH DIV
LEIKER STEPHEN J VIET NAM 4/47 & 5/60 9TH INF DIV
LEONHARD JOHN R KOREA 7TH INF, 32ND REGT
LEWES RICHARD E KOREA CO B, 31ST INF REGT, 7TH ID
LOHMAN FRED M VIET NAM 1ST AIR CAV; 1/50 INF (MECH)
LOMNICKI WILLIAM W VIET NAM A CO 3/12 4TH INF DIV
LONG II MCKENDREE R VIET NAM MACV ADV TEAM 24
MANNING MICHAEL S AFGHANISTAN 45TH C CO 1-179
MARTIN WINFRED R VIET NAM CO D, 2ND BN, 8TH CAV, 1ST CAV DIV
MATSON STEPHEN J VIET NAM 2/14 25TH DIV
MAURER JAMES N VIET NAM A-2/7 FIRST AIR CAV
MAY LARRY A VIET NAM A/2/12 4ID AND 25 ID
McFELLIN ATLEE C VIET NAM CO D, 2ND BN, 5TH BDE, 1ST CAV DIV
MCLEAN KENNETH R VIET NAM CO B, 4/47 9TH INF DIV
MEDKEFF DAN VIET NAM CO A, 1/52 198TH LIB AMERICAL DIV
MENDOZA NICHOLAS OPERATION POWER PACK
CHARLIE CO, 2ND BN, 505TH INF, 82ND ABN
MEYER WILLIAM H WWII 78TH INF DIV, 309TH RRC
MIDDLETON LEON VIET NAM 101ST ABN DIV
MILLER WILLIAM P VIET NAM 199TH LIB
MINNIER NORMAN E VIET NAM 25TH INFANTRY
MITCHELL ROBERT VIET NAM 9TH IND DIV, MOBILE RIVERINE
MOORE WILLIAM C KOREA CO F, 2ND BN, 15TH REGT, 3RD ID
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 30 cibassoc.com
MORGEN DAVID L VIET NAM B 2/5 CAV & HCC 1ST BDE FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION
MULLINS STERLIN R VIET NAM 199TH LIGHT INFANTRY BRIDGADE A. CO 3RD BATTALHION, 7TH INFANTRY
MURPHY JAMES E VIET NAM 2/35 INF 4TH INF DIV
NELSON LOUIS S VIET NAM 196 LT INF
NELSON CURTIS L IRAQ 1-5 CAV 2ND BCT, 1ST CAV DIV
NOTTER CARL W AFGHANISTAN CO B, 3/103RD AR, 28TH ID
O'BRIEN JAMES H AFGHANISTAN 1ST INF DIV
OWENS LLOYD K VIET NAM 25TH INF DIV, CO A 1ST/35TH
PARKHILL MICHAEL G VIET NAM D TRIP, 1/9 CAV, 1ST CAV DIV
PARLIER JAMES LARRY VIET NAM 25 INF DIV - 1/27 C CO WOLF HOUNDS
PEARSON JAMES M VIET NAM 1ST AIR CAV, D2/8 CAT PL
PETERING LEON A VIET NAM 196TH INF AMERICAL DIV
PETRELLI CARMEN M VIET NAM 1ST INF DIV
POISSON PAUL A VIET NAM 1ST 501 101ST ABN
POOLE ERNEST VIET NAM ACO 3RD RN 173RD ABN BDE
PORTER GERALD L VIET NAM B CO 2ND BN 8TH INF DIV
POWELL CHARLES B VIET NAM 3RD OF 39 INF
PRINCE JOSEPH R VIET NAM 5TH IN DIV, D 1/11
PUCCIO VINCENT J VIET NAM HHC 2ND BED, 1ST CAV DIV
QUIJANO ALEC J VIET NAM 2ND 12TH C COMPANY, 1ST CAV DIV
REARDON STEPHEN M VIET NAM CO C, 87TH INF
REED THOMAS C VIET NAM 1ST SQD, 4TH CAV RECON
RINCON JULIAN VIET NAM F CO 52ND INF IRRP/ICO AIRBORNE RANG-ER 75 INF
ROBERTS HAROLD L VIET NAM 4TH INF
ROEGIERS ANTHONY B VIET NAM C-2-8 1ST CAV
ROMER JR ERNEST J VIET NAM A CO 1ST/502 D 101ST ABN
ROMERO JESUS PANAMA C CO, 1/9, 7TH ID LIGHT, FORT ORD, CA
RONNING DALE T VIET NAM CO B, 2/502, 101ST ABN DIV
ROSING WILLIAM (BILL) J KOREA HQ CO, 224TH INF REGT, 40TH ID
ROSSICONE PAUL VIET NAM CO A, 1ST BNH, 14TH INF, 4TH INF DIV
ROWELL WALTER D VIET NAM 1/58TH MECH. INFANTRY/ 173RD AIR-BORNE
ROWELL WALTER D VIET NAM 1/50TH MECH. INFANTRY/ 173RD AIR-BORNE
ROZELLE ROBERT L VIET NAM 1-6 INF 198TH INF BDE / 1-7 CAV 1CD
ROZIER ALLEN F VIET NAM 25TH INFANTRY
SALAZAR VICTOR IRAQ 25TH ID
SCIPIONI, JR LOUIS VIET NAM 1/28TH INF BN, 1ST INF DIV
SEVERSON GORDON J KOREA CO L, 7TH CAV REGT, 1ST CAV DIV
SHOOK LARRY C VIET NAM MACV 2ND ARVN RANGER GB
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 31 cibassoc.com
SIKES, JR JOHN M VIET NAM SO91HQ 101ABN DIV
SIMMONS RICHARD W VIET NAM 1ST CAV, 173RD ABN BDE
SLOANE MARION L DOMINICAN REP 82ND ABN DIV
SMICKLE WILLIAM S VIET NAM C CO, 1/327TH INF, 101ST AIRBORNE DIVI-SION
SMITH WILLIAM R VIET NAM A 1/27 25INF DIV
SNELL DANIEL T VIET NAM 9TH INF, 50 Oc60TH
SOIGNET CLARENCE O VIET NAM 101ST ABN
STAHL WILLIAM R WWII 26TH INF DIV-3RD ARMY
STANMAR GREG VIET NAM 2/14TH 25TH INF DIV
STEVENS ROBERT L VIET NAM COB 2/327 101 AIRBORNE
STEVENSON JAMES H VIET NAM CO. C 1/502 INF. 101ST AB
STIGALL CHARLES W VIET NAM CO C, 26 INF REG, 1ST INF DIV
SWAIM III JOHN R KOREA 38TH REG 2ND DIV
SWONKE GERARD J VIET NAM 3/22ND OF THE 25TH INFANTRY DIVISION
TATE MARTIN L VIET NAM A, 1ST, 14TH 3RD BRGD. 25TH INF
TEES HANS VIET NAM 41ST VIETNAMESE RANGER BTN (ADVISOR)
TETER CHARLES R VIET NAM 1ST CAV DIV, 2/7TH
THOMPSON JAMIE C VIET NAM C CO 5/7 1ST CAV DIV
VALDIVIA HECTOR R VIET NAM CO A, 4TH BN, 3RD INF, 11TH INF BDE
VAN BIBBER JOHN O VIET NAM 199TH INF BDE
VASQUEZ SANTIAGO VIET NAM A CO 3/39 9 INF DIV
WAGGONER RONALD VIET NAM 25TH INF
WALKER JOSHUA P IRAQ A CO 1-128TH INF
WALLACE PAUL L VIET NAM B 1/5 MECH 25TH ID
WATKINS PATRICK N KOREA 5TH SPECIAL FORCES GP
WHEAT RUSSELL H VIET NAM 3RD PLT, B CO, 2ND BN, 3RD INF, 199TH LIB
WHITCOMB JAY R VIET NAM 2 BN 28 INF 3 BDE, INF DIV
WILLIAMS MARK W VIET NAM 1ST CAV VIET NAM
WILLIAMS EARL E VIET NAM CO A, 2ND BN, 47TH INF (MECH), 9TH INF DIV
WILSON GAIL A VIET NAM 11TH ACR/ 9TH INF DIV
WISE RICHARD S VIET NAM 199TH LIGHT INF BTLE
WOLFFE PETER D WWII CO L, 395TH INF REGT, 99THINF DIV
WORD KEITH I VIET NAM 525 MI GP (MACV)
WRIGHT, JR JAMES E VIET NAM 1ST CAV DIV (AIRMOBILE)
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 32 cibassoc.com
TAPS
The Combat Infantrymen’s Association was notified of the death of the following association members. The entire
association sends our deepest sympathy to the family of the deceased. Names include those whose death was
learned of between May 16, 2019 and October 15, 2019. Names received after October 15, 2019 will be remembered
in the next edition of the Blue Badge. Each of these listed was a hero and is remembered with honor and respect.
Last Name First Name UPDATE
ANDERSON MERL DECEASED
BETTINE DONALD DECEASED 5/1/2019
BLACK LLOYD DECEASED
BRADLEY (RET) LTC PHILIP DECEASED 05/2017
BRESSLER JACK DECEASED
COOPER II G. S. DECEASED
CORBYN RICHARD DECEASED
DISARRO JAMES DECEASED 1/23/2015
DONARSKI STEVEN DECEASED 3/27/2017
DUNN ROBERT DECEASED 12/3/2015
ELLIS RICHARD DECEASED 7/19/2019
FALEY HOWARD DECEASED 06/28/19
FRITZ ALLAN DECEASED 5/26/2019
GOULD FREDERICK DECEASED
HORAN LAWRENCE DECEASED 7/10/2018
HUTSON KENNETH DECEASED 5/11/2019
JONGSMA HERMAN DECEASED
KEIR LEE DECEASED
MADDOX CHARLES DECEASED 06/2019
MANCINI RAUL DECEASED
PARKER EARL DECEASED 11/30/2015
PAUL JOSEPH DECEASED
PEPPER JOHN DECEASED 11/2018
PICKERING THOMAS DECEASED 3/10/2015
ROFFE CHARLES DECEASED
SEIFERT LLOYD DECEASED 7/29/2018
SHRAWDER CARSON DECEASED 8/21/2019
VAN BUREN LANDIN DECEASED
WIEGERT DARRELL DECEASED 2015
WOODS JAMES DECEASED
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 33 cibassoc.com
LEGACY PROGRAM – INTRODUCTION
The legacy program is an endowment Fund Raising program given by our members, our
friends and our supporters. The purpose is to provide a steady stream of revenue that
will protect our Combat Infantrymen’s Association finances; enable us to launch new CIB
Companies; sustain our Scholarship awards that promote patriotism.
WHY CREATE A LEGACY?
In one way or another, your life is rooted in military experiences, connecting you to the
Veteran community. Even if you never had the opportunity to serve in the military, you
recognize that the freedoms enjoyed by all Americans were purchased by the service
and sacrifice of men in uniform who served as combat warriors.
Your decision of leaving a “living” Legacy assures that Combat Veterans will be around
to help yesterday’s Veterans and future generations of Combat Veterans. Your Legacy
can be a cash donation to our association or including our association as one of your
beneficiaries in your will or estate plans.
HOW TO CREATE A LEGACY
Make an outright cash gift to CIB Legacy Fund or,
Make a gift of stock, bonds or other types of property or,
Add/change a beneficiary on an IRA, 401K, Pension Fund or life insurance policy.
SUMMARY
Creating a LEGACY, will help the Combat Infantrymen’s Association FOREVER. There is
no limit to your gift. You decide if your gift is large or small.
Throughout the past years, the Combat Infantrymen’s Association has worked with our
members and donors to build a strong and lasting organization, to properly serve our
honored Combat Infantrymen.
Please consider making a generous contribution to the LEGACY program. Two added
benefits of your LEGACY gift: First, certain types of gifts qualify for Major tax benefits.
2nd, a full-page memorial ad will be placed in our Website for all eternity. I can provide
a sample. If you have any questions, please contact me at (847) 987-5401 or email me at
IRWINFISCH@SBCGLOBAL.NET I’m happy to answer any questions.
Sincerely,
Irwin Fischman – National Finance Chairman
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 34 cibassoc.com
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 35 cibassoc.com
TOGETHER WE SERVED
FREE MEMBERSHIP OFFER
If you served in any branch of the United
States Military, consider becoming a mem-
ber of Together We Served - the largest
online community of U.S. Military Veterans
where you can quickly find and re-connect
with old friends you served with. As an
added bonus for being a CIBA Member,
you can claim a FREE 1 Year Premium
Membership (a $19.95 value) to Together
We Served which you can cancel at any
time. Join Together We Served
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 36 cibassoc.com
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION 37 cibassoc.com
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