In Memory of ...... SGT George Curtis Green, Jr.
*** On December 4, 1970, he was a member of a long range reconnaissance team operating in Attopeu Province, Laos about 20 miles west of Dak Sut, South Vietnam, when the team was assaulted by the enemy and Sergeant Green was killed. His remains were not recovered. His name is inscribed on the Courts of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial.
You may be gone, no longer living on this earth; but you will live on - in the memories of your family and friends. There will always be a part of you living in those who knew you. You will live on because we remember you!
GEORGE CURTIS GREEN, JR. - Army - SGT - E5 Special Forces
Age: 20
Race: Caucasian
Date of Birth May 13, 1950
From: ATTICA, IN
Religion: ROMAN CATHOLIC
Marital Status: Single - Parents: Father, George Curtis Green, Sr., Born 1927 and Mother, Mary C. Green of Attica, IN. He has NO children.
*****Veronica Brand - Sister
Sgt., Green's had been in country, for almost a year, at the time, of his death.
We called him Curt. He was the oldest of 13 children, with only one other being a brother. As the second oldest, I knew him better than the younger siblings. But when we talk, their memories of him fit well with what I remember. He was thoughtful, intelligent, concerned for others, bold and brave. Yes, we fought, argued, acted like normal children. But I remember him worrying over the family after our father left. I remember him being concerned with how Mom was doing. I remember him thinking about the other children and wanting to help with their needs. brbrHe was no saint. But he was a good man, doing a job that would cost his life, but he felt was worth doing. I was and am very proud of him. I miss him every day.
***** I graduated from high school with George in May of 1968. I remember him as tall, thin, dark hair, easy going with a nice smile. George was quiet, older than his years. He was the oldest son in a large family without a father. As I recall, he didn't take much time for himself, always being there for his mother and younger siblings, often working after school. He took his responsibility to his family very seriously. He also gave much of his time to class projects. I remember him working on our Homecoming floats. He was well respected. I know George had dreams for the future. I'm sure they had to do with caring for his family. He was full of potential with the hunger to succeed. He took his responsibility to his country very seriously too. I think he signed up before he graduated with hopes of going to Vietnam. I'm sure he acted responsibly and conducted himself with honor, as always. I'd bet most of his pay went back home. This man's death left a huge hole in the world. That is how I remember George.
Steve Hall - High School Classmate
His tour began on Jan 1, 1970
Casualty was on Dec 4, 1970
In LZ, LAOS
MILITARY DATA:
Service: Army of the United States
Grade at loss: E5
Rank: Sergeant
ID No: 308544471
MOS: 05B4S: Radio Operator (Special Forces Qual)
Length Service: 04
Unit: RT WASHINGTON, CCC, MACV-SOG, 5TH SF GROUP, USARV
CASUALTY DATA:
Start Tour: 01/30/1970
Incident Date: 12/04/1970
Casualty Date: 12/04/1970
Age at Loss: 20
Location: , Laos
Remains: Body not recovered
Casualty Type: Hostile, died while missing
Casualty Reason: Ground casualty
Casualty Detail: Gun or small arms fire
Hostile, died while missing, GROUND CASUALTY
GUN, SMALL ARMS FIRE
Body was not recovered
Panel 06W - Line 106
Other Personnel in Incident: (none missing)
Sgt. George C. Green Jr. was a rifleman assigned to Special Operations Augmentation, Command & Control Detachment, MACV-SOG (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and Observation Group).
MACV-SOG was a joint service high command unconventional warfare task force engaged in highly classified operations throughout Southeast Asia. The 5th Special Forces channeled personnel into MACV-SOG (although it was not a Special Forces group) through Special Operations Augmentation (SOA), which provided their "cover" while under secret orders to MACV-SOG.
The teams performed deep penetration missions of strategic reconnaissance and interdiction which were called, depending on the time frame, "Shining Brass" or "Prairie Fire" missions.
Green's long range reconnaissance patrol (LRRP) was operating in Attopeu Province, Laos about 20 miles west of the South Vietnamese city of Dak Sut on December 4, 1970.
At 0920 hours that day, the enemy assaulted the team at a
landing zone (LZ) with rifle fire and rocket propelled grenades.
George Green was hit three times and was instantly killed.
Because of the intensity of the enemy attack and fire, the recon team had to leave Green's remains behind.
Later aerial searches were made of the area, but Green's body was not seen.
Because of enemy control of the area, no ground search was possible.
**********************************
Thinking about my older brother, Curt, brought back two of my most memorable Christmases. The first was the year I was in the third grade; I must have been about eight years old. Curt had joined the Army Special Forces, and it didn't look like he was going to make it home for Christmas that year. Looking back to that Christmas, I don't know how my mom held herself together for the rest of us with her oldest child in training in a distant place. Being a single mother of thirteen she had to be strong for those of us at home.
With our tree up and our stockings laid out, off to bed we went with thoughts of what great gifts Santa would bring. When we woke that Christmas morning and followed each other down the stairs, through the kitchen, dining room and, finally, to the living room, there was the most beautiful, magical sight ever. Sitting in a chair in the middle of the room, was my big brother Curt, he'd made it home! What a wonderful surprise!
Everyone was so excited and overjoyed to see him! Not only did I get one of my favorite baby dolls that year, but my big brother was home; now our family was complete again.
To this day, I believe that was the best gift any of us ever got for Christmas! Following that holiday celebration, Curt was sent to Vietnam. His tour of duty with the Army was to be finished the next December. My big brother wrote many letters home telling us of the things he was encountering in a foreign land. He loved being in the military but was looking forward to coming home and attending college after his commitment was complete.
Curt planned to become a school teacher. As the months faded by, my mother received word in late November that Curt was missing in action. Our family had already put up the Christmas tree as we always put it up as early as mom would allow. Even though Curt had been declared missing in action, there were several presents under the tree for him in hopes that he would be found and make it home for another Christmas miracle. Just a few weeks later, I remember my principal calling me out of my fourth
grade classroom to come to the office. As I made my way down the hallway, I could hear him calling my other elementary siblings over the intercom to do the same.
Our principal told us he was letting us go home early for lunch that day. In those days if you lived close enough to school, you could walk home for lunch, and we did so nearly every day. But this time was different; we all left for home together trying to figure out why we were allowed an early dismissal. As we walked down the alley leading to our home, our house came into view with an unfamiliar green car parked out front. Bewildered by what awaited us, we hurried on home.
As we anxiously walked through the door, two Army officers sadly delivered the agonizing news that Curt had been killed in action on December 4, 1970; he was just twenty years old. I really don't remember much about Christmas that year other than when it came time to take the tree down, there underneath, sat the unopened presents for Curt.
Every year since then, when we put up our family Christmas tree, I always think about how sad I felt to see Curt's presents still sitting there, unopened.
Now, as I write this short story, I realize that every Christmas, since that time, Curt has remained with us through beautiful thoughts of him. Each time we share those fond memories, it is like opening a present for Curt. To those who did not know my brother Curt, he gave us all a perfect gift…the gift of freedom and self determination so that we can live in a better world today.
Curt was proud and honored to give that ultimate sacrifice. I remember Curt wrote in one of his many letters home that he loved God; he loved his country; and he loved his family.
Thank you big brother! We love you too.
On behalf of my loving brother, Curt, I would like to say to every military member and their family, thank you for your gift of service to this great country. Your sacrifices are not unnoticed; they are appreciated and never taken for granted.
By Celese Tyner - Sister
***********************************************
.
*** On December 4, 1970, he was a member of a long range reconnaissance team operating in Attopeu Province, Laos about 20 miles west of Dak Sut, South Vietnam, when the team was assaulted by the enemy and Sergeant Green was killed. His remains were not recovered. His name is inscribed on the Courts of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial.
You may be gone, no longer living on this earth; but you will live on - in the memories of your family and friends. There will always be a part of you living in those who knew you. You will live on because we remember you!
GEORGE CURTIS GREEN, JR. - Army - SGT - E5 Special Forces
Age: 20
Race: Caucasian
Date of Birth May 13, 1950
From: ATTICA, IN
Religion: ROMAN CATHOLIC
Marital Status: Single - Parents: Father, George Curtis Green, Sr., Born 1927 and Mother, Mary C. Green of Attica, IN. He has NO children.
*****Veronica Brand - Sister
Sgt., Green's had been in country, for almost a year, at the time, of his death.
We called him Curt. He was the oldest of 13 children, with only one other being a brother. As the second oldest, I knew him better than the younger siblings. But when we talk, their memories of him fit well with what I remember. He was thoughtful, intelligent, concerned for others, bold and brave. Yes, we fought, argued, acted like normal children. But I remember him worrying over the family after our father left. I remember him being concerned with how Mom was doing. I remember him thinking about the other children and wanting to help with their needs. brbrHe was no saint. But he was a good man, doing a job that would cost his life, but he felt was worth doing. I was and am very proud of him. I miss him every day.
***** I graduated from high school with George in May of 1968. I remember him as tall, thin, dark hair, easy going with a nice smile. George was quiet, older than his years. He was the oldest son in a large family without a father. As I recall, he didn't take much time for himself, always being there for his mother and younger siblings, often working after school. He took his responsibility to his family very seriously. He also gave much of his time to class projects. I remember him working on our Homecoming floats. He was well respected. I know George had dreams for the future. I'm sure they had to do with caring for his family. He was full of potential with the hunger to succeed. He took his responsibility to his country very seriously too. I think he signed up before he graduated with hopes of going to Vietnam. I'm sure he acted responsibly and conducted himself with honor, as always. I'd bet most of his pay went back home. This man's death left a huge hole in the world. That is how I remember George.
Steve Hall - High School Classmate
His tour began on Jan 1, 1970
Casualty was on Dec 4, 1970
In LZ, LAOS
MILITARY DATA:
Service: Army of the United States
Grade at loss: E5
Rank: Sergeant
ID No: 308544471
MOS: 05B4S: Radio Operator (Special Forces Qual)
Length Service: 04
Unit: RT WASHINGTON, CCC, MACV-SOG, 5TH SF GROUP, USARV
CASUALTY DATA:
Start Tour: 01/30/1970
Incident Date: 12/04/1970
Casualty Date: 12/04/1970
Age at Loss: 20
Location: , Laos
Remains: Body not recovered
Casualty Type: Hostile, died while missing
Casualty Reason: Ground casualty
Casualty Detail: Gun or small arms fire
Hostile, died while missing, GROUND CASUALTY
GUN, SMALL ARMS FIRE
Body was not recovered
Panel 06W - Line 106
Other Personnel in Incident: (none missing)
Sgt. George C. Green Jr. was a rifleman assigned to Special Operations Augmentation, Command & Control Detachment, MACV-SOG (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and Observation Group).
MACV-SOG was a joint service high command unconventional warfare task force engaged in highly classified operations throughout Southeast Asia. The 5th Special Forces channeled personnel into MACV-SOG (although it was not a Special Forces group) through Special Operations Augmentation (SOA), which provided their "cover" while under secret orders to MACV-SOG.
The teams performed deep penetration missions of strategic reconnaissance and interdiction which were called, depending on the time frame, "Shining Brass" or "Prairie Fire" missions.
Green's long range reconnaissance patrol (LRRP) was operating in Attopeu Province, Laos about 20 miles west of the South Vietnamese city of Dak Sut on December 4, 1970.
At 0920 hours that day, the enemy assaulted the team at a
landing zone (LZ) with rifle fire and rocket propelled grenades.
George Green was hit three times and was instantly killed.
Because of the intensity of the enemy attack and fire, the recon team had to leave Green's remains behind.
Later aerial searches were made of the area, but Green's body was not seen.
Because of enemy control of the area, no ground search was possible.
**********************************
Thinking about my older brother, Curt, brought back two of my most memorable Christmases. The first was the year I was in the third grade; I must have been about eight years old. Curt had joined the Army Special Forces, and it didn't look like he was going to make it home for Christmas that year. Looking back to that Christmas, I don't know how my mom held herself together for the rest of us with her oldest child in training in a distant place. Being a single mother of thirteen she had to be strong for those of us at home.
With our tree up and our stockings laid out, off to bed we went with thoughts of what great gifts Santa would bring. When we woke that Christmas morning and followed each other down the stairs, through the kitchen, dining room and, finally, to the living room, there was the most beautiful, magical sight ever. Sitting in a chair in the middle of the room, was my big brother Curt, he'd made it home! What a wonderful surprise!
Everyone was so excited and overjoyed to see him! Not only did I get one of my favorite baby dolls that year, but my big brother was home; now our family was complete again.
To this day, I believe that was the best gift any of us ever got for Christmas! Following that holiday celebration, Curt was sent to Vietnam. His tour of duty with the Army was to be finished the next December. My big brother wrote many letters home telling us of the things he was encountering in a foreign land. He loved being in the military but was looking forward to coming home and attending college after his commitment was complete.
Curt planned to become a school teacher. As the months faded by, my mother received word in late November that Curt was missing in action. Our family had already put up the Christmas tree as we always put it up as early as mom would allow. Even though Curt had been declared missing in action, there were several presents under the tree for him in hopes that he would be found and make it home for another Christmas miracle. Just a few weeks later, I remember my principal calling me out of my fourth
grade classroom to come to the office. As I made my way down the hallway, I could hear him calling my other elementary siblings over the intercom to do the same.
Our principal told us he was letting us go home early for lunch that day. In those days if you lived close enough to school, you could walk home for lunch, and we did so nearly every day. But this time was different; we all left for home together trying to figure out why we were allowed an early dismissal. As we walked down the alley leading to our home, our house came into view with an unfamiliar green car parked out front. Bewildered by what awaited us, we hurried on home.
As we anxiously walked through the door, two Army officers sadly delivered the agonizing news that Curt had been killed in action on December 4, 1970; he was just twenty years old. I really don't remember much about Christmas that year other than when it came time to take the tree down, there underneath, sat the unopened presents for Curt.
Every year since then, when we put up our family Christmas tree, I always think about how sad I felt to see Curt's presents still sitting there, unopened.
Now, as I write this short story, I realize that every Christmas, since that time, Curt has remained with us through beautiful thoughts of him. Each time we share those fond memories, it is like opening a present for Curt. To those who did not know my brother Curt, he gave us all a perfect gift…the gift of freedom and self determination so that we can live in a better world today.
Curt was proud and honored to give that ultimate sacrifice. I remember Curt wrote in one of his many letters home that he loved God; he loved his country; and he loved his family.
Thank you big brother! We love you too.
On behalf of my loving brother, Curt, I would like to say to every military member and their family, thank you for your gift of service to this great country. Your sacrifices are not unnoticed; they are appreciated and never taken for granted.
By Celese Tyner - Sister
***********************************************
.
In Memory of ...... SGT George Curtis Green, Jr.
*** On December 4, 1970, he was a member of a long range reconnaissance team operating in Attopeu Province, Laos about 20 miles west of Dak Sut, South Vietnam, when the team was assaulted by the enemy and Sergeant Green was killed. His remains were not recovered. His name is inscribed on the Courts of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial.
You may be gone, no longer living on this earth; but you will live on - in the memories of your family and friends. There will always be a part of you living in those who knew you. You will live on because we remember you!
GEORGE CURTIS GREEN, JR. - Army - SGT - E5 Special Forces
Age: 20
Race: Caucasian
Date of Birth May 13, 1950
From: ATTICA, IN
Religion: ROMAN CATHOLIC
Marital Status: Single - Parents: Father, George Curtis Green, Sr., Born 1927 and Mother, Mary C. Green of Attica, IN. He has NO children.
*****Veronica Brand - Sister
Sgt., Green's had been in country, for almost a year, at the time, of his death.
We called him Curt. He was the oldest of 13 children, with only one other being a brother. As the second oldest, I knew him better than the younger siblings. But when we talk, their memories of him fit well with what I remember. He was thoughtful, intelligent, concerned for others, bold and brave. Yes, we fought, argued, acted like normal children. But I remember him worrying over the family after our father left. I remember him being concerned with how Mom was doing. I remember him thinking about the other children and wanting to help with their needs. brbrHe was no saint. But he was a good man, doing a job that would cost his life, but he felt was worth doing. I was and am very proud of him. I miss him every day.
***** I graduated from high school with George in May of 1968. I remember him as tall, thin, dark hair, easy going with a nice smile. George was quiet, older than his years. He was the oldest son in a large family without a father. As I recall, he didn't take much time for himself, always being there for his mother and younger siblings, often working after school. He took his responsibility to his family very seriously. He also gave much of his time to class projects. I remember him working on our Homecoming floats. He was well respected. I know George had dreams for the future. I'm sure they had to do with caring for his family. He was full of potential with the hunger to succeed. He took his responsibility to his country very seriously too. I think he signed up before he graduated with hopes of going to Vietnam. I'm sure he acted responsibly and conducted himself with honor, as always. I'd bet most of his pay went back home. This man's death left a huge hole in the world. That is how I remember George.
Steve Hall - High School Classmate
His tour began on Jan 1, 1970
Casualty was on Dec 4, 1970
In LZ, LAOS
MILITARY DATA:
Service: Army of the United States
Grade at loss: E5
Rank: Sergeant
ID No: 308544471
MOS: 05B4S: Radio Operator (Special Forces Qual)
Length Service: 04
Unit: RT WASHINGTON, CCC, MACV-SOG, 5TH SF GROUP, USARV
CASUALTY DATA:
Start Tour: 01/30/1970
Incident Date: 12/04/1970
Casualty Date: 12/04/1970
Age at Loss: 20
Location: , Laos
Remains: Body not recovered
Casualty Type: Hostile, died while missing
Casualty Reason: Ground casualty
Casualty Detail: Gun or small arms fire
Hostile, died while missing, GROUND CASUALTY
GUN, SMALL ARMS FIRE
Body was not recovered
Panel 06W - Line 106
Other Personnel in Incident: (none missing)
Sgt. George C. Green Jr. was a rifleman assigned to Special Operations Augmentation, Command & Control Detachment, MACV-SOG (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and Observation Group).
MACV-SOG was a joint service high command unconventional warfare task force engaged in highly classified operations throughout Southeast Asia. The 5th Special Forces channeled personnel into MACV-SOG (although it was not a Special Forces group) through Special Operations Augmentation (SOA), which provided their "cover" while under secret orders to MACV-SOG.
The teams performed deep penetration missions of strategic reconnaissance and interdiction which were called, depending on the time frame, "Shining Brass" or "Prairie Fire" missions.
Green's long range reconnaissance patrol (LRRP) was operating in Attopeu Province, Laos about 20 miles west of the South Vietnamese city of Dak Sut on December 4, 1970.
At 0920 hours that day, the enemy assaulted the team at a
landing zone (LZ) with rifle fire and rocket propelled grenades.
George Green was hit three times and was instantly killed.
Because of the intensity of the enemy attack and fire, the recon team had to leave Green's remains behind.
Later aerial searches were made of the area, but Green's body was not seen.
Because of enemy control of the area, no ground search was possible.
**********************************
Thinking about my older brother, Curt, brought back two of my most memorable Christmases. The first was the year I was in the third grade; I must have been about eight years old. Curt had joined the Army Special Forces, and it didn't look like he was going to make it home for Christmas that year. Looking back to that Christmas, I don't know how my mom held herself together for the rest of us with her oldest child in training in a distant place. Being a single mother of thirteen she had to be strong for those of us at home.
With our tree up and our stockings laid out, off to bed we went with thoughts of what great gifts Santa would bring. When we woke that Christmas morning and followed each other down the stairs, through the kitchen, dining room and, finally, to the living room, there was the most beautiful, magical sight ever. Sitting in a chair in the middle of the room, was my big brother Curt, he'd made it home! What a wonderful surprise!
Everyone was so excited and overjoyed to see him! Not only did I get one of my favorite baby dolls that year, but my big brother was home; now our family was complete again.
To this day, I believe that was the best gift any of us ever got for Christmas! Following that holiday celebration, Curt was sent to Vietnam. His tour of duty with the Army was to be finished the next December. My big brother wrote many letters home telling us of the things he was encountering in a foreign land. He loved being in the military but was looking forward to coming home and attending college after his commitment was complete.
Curt planned to become a school teacher. As the months faded by, my mother received word in late November that Curt was missing in action. Our family had already put up the Christmas tree as we always put it up as early as mom would allow. Even though Curt had been declared missing in action, there were several presents under the tree for him in hopes that he would be found and make it home for another Christmas miracle. Just a few weeks later, I remember my principal calling me out of my fourth
grade classroom to come to the office. As I made my way down the hallway, I could hear him calling my other elementary siblings over the intercom to do the same.
Our principal told us he was letting us go home early for lunch that day. In those days if you lived close enough to school, you could walk home for lunch, and we did so nearly every day. But this time was different; we all left for home together trying to figure out why we were allowed an early dismissal. As we walked down the alley leading to our home, our house came into view with an unfamiliar green car parked out front. Bewildered by what awaited us, we hurried on home.
As we anxiously walked through the door, two Army officers sadly delivered the agonizing news that Curt had been killed in action on December 4, 1970; he was just twenty years old. I really don't remember much about Christmas that year other than when it came time to take the tree down, there underneath, sat the unopened presents for Curt.
Every year since then, when we put up our family Christmas tree, I always think about how sad I felt to see Curt's presents still sitting there, unopened.
Now, as I write this short story, I realize that every Christmas, since that time, Curt has remained with us through beautiful thoughts of him. Each time we share those fond memories, it is like opening a present for Curt. To those who did not know my brother Curt, he gave us all a perfect gift…the gift of freedom and self determination so that we can live in a better world today.
Curt was proud and honored to give that ultimate sacrifice. I remember Curt wrote in one of his many letters home that he loved God; he loved his country; and he loved his family.
Thank you big brother! We love you too.
On behalf of my loving brother, Curt, I would like to say to every military member and their family, thank you for your gift of service to this great country. Your sacrifices are not unnoticed; they are appreciated and never taken for granted.
By Celese Tyner - Sister
***********************************************
.
*** On December 4, 1970, he was a member of a long range reconnaissance team operating in Attopeu Province, Laos about 20 miles west of Dak Sut, South Vietnam, when the team was assaulted by the enemy and Sergeant Green was killed. His remains were not recovered. His name is inscribed on the Courts of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial.
You may be gone, no longer living on this earth; but you will live on - in the memories of your family and friends. There will always be a part of you living in those who knew you. You will live on because we remember you!
GEORGE CURTIS GREEN, JR. - Army - SGT - E5 Special Forces
Age: 20
Race: Caucasian
Date of Birth May 13, 1950
From: ATTICA, IN
Religion: ROMAN CATHOLIC
Marital Status: Single - Parents: Father, George Curtis Green, Sr., Born 1927 and Mother, Mary C. Green of Attica, IN. He has NO children.
*****Veronica Brand - Sister
Sgt., Green's had been in country, for almost a year, at the time, of his death.
We called him Curt. He was the oldest of 13 children, with only one other being a brother. As the second oldest, I knew him better than the younger siblings. But when we talk, their memories of him fit well with what I remember. He was thoughtful, intelligent, concerned for others, bold and brave. Yes, we fought, argued, acted like normal children. But I remember him worrying over the family after our father left. I remember him being concerned with how Mom was doing. I remember him thinking about the other children and wanting to help with their needs. brbrHe was no saint. But he was a good man, doing a job that would cost his life, but he felt was worth doing. I was and am very proud of him. I miss him every day.
***** I graduated from high school with George in May of 1968. I remember him as tall, thin, dark hair, easy going with a nice smile. George was quiet, older than his years. He was the oldest son in a large family without a father. As I recall, he didn't take much time for himself, always being there for his mother and younger siblings, often working after school. He took his responsibility to his family very seriously. He also gave much of his time to class projects. I remember him working on our Homecoming floats. He was well respected. I know George had dreams for the future. I'm sure they had to do with caring for his family. He was full of potential with the hunger to succeed. He took his responsibility to his country very seriously too. I think he signed up before he graduated with hopes of going to Vietnam. I'm sure he acted responsibly and conducted himself with honor, as always. I'd bet most of his pay went back home. This man's death left a huge hole in the world. That is how I remember George.
Steve Hall - High School Classmate
His tour began on Jan 1, 1970
Casualty was on Dec 4, 1970
In LZ, LAOS
MILITARY DATA:
Service: Army of the United States
Grade at loss: E5
Rank: Sergeant
ID No: 308544471
MOS: 05B4S: Radio Operator (Special Forces Qual)
Length Service: 04
Unit: RT WASHINGTON, CCC, MACV-SOG, 5TH SF GROUP, USARV
CASUALTY DATA:
Start Tour: 01/30/1970
Incident Date: 12/04/1970
Casualty Date: 12/04/1970
Age at Loss: 20
Location: , Laos
Remains: Body not recovered
Casualty Type: Hostile, died while missing
Casualty Reason: Ground casualty
Casualty Detail: Gun or small arms fire
Hostile, died while missing, GROUND CASUALTY
GUN, SMALL ARMS FIRE
Body was not recovered
Panel 06W - Line 106
Other Personnel in Incident: (none missing)
Sgt. George C. Green Jr. was a rifleman assigned to Special Operations Augmentation, Command & Control Detachment, MACV-SOG (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and Observation Group).
MACV-SOG was a joint service high command unconventional warfare task force engaged in highly classified operations throughout Southeast Asia. The 5th Special Forces channeled personnel into MACV-SOG (although it was not a Special Forces group) through Special Operations Augmentation (SOA), which provided their "cover" while under secret orders to MACV-SOG.
The teams performed deep penetration missions of strategic reconnaissance and interdiction which were called, depending on the time frame, "Shining Brass" or "Prairie Fire" missions.
Green's long range reconnaissance patrol (LRRP) was operating in Attopeu Province, Laos about 20 miles west of the South Vietnamese city of Dak Sut on December 4, 1970.
At 0920 hours that day, the enemy assaulted the team at a
landing zone (LZ) with rifle fire and rocket propelled grenades.
George Green was hit three times and was instantly killed.
Because of the intensity of the enemy attack and fire, the recon team had to leave Green's remains behind.
Later aerial searches were made of the area, but Green's body was not seen.
Because of enemy control of the area, no ground search was possible.
**********************************
Thinking about my older brother, Curt, brought back two of my most memorable Christmases. The first was the year I was in the third grade; I must have been about eight years old. Curt had joined the Army Special Forces, and it didn't look like he was going to make it home for Christmas that year. Looking back to that Christmas, I don't know how my mom held herself together for the rest of us with her oldest child in training in a distant place. Being a single mother of thirteen she had to be strong for those of us at home.
With our tree up and our stockings laid out, off to bed we went with thoughts of what great gifts Santa would bring. When we woke that Christmas morning and followed each other down the stairs, through the kitchen, dining room and, finally, to the living room, there was the most beautiful, magical sight ever. Sitting in a chair in the middle of the room, was my big brother Curt, he'd made it home! What a wonderful surprise!
Everyone was so excited and overjoyed to see him! Not only did I get one of my favorite baby dolls that year, but my big brother was home; now our family was complete again.
To this day, I believe that was the best gift any of us ever got for Christmas! Following that holiday celebration, Curt was sent to Vietnam. His tour of duty with the Army was to be finished the next December. My big brother wrote many letters home telling us of the things he was encountering in a foreign land. He loved being in the military but was looking forward to coming home and attending college after his commitment was complete.
Curt planned to become a school teacher. As the months faded by, my mother received word in late November that Curt was missing in action. Our family had already put up the Christmas tree as we always put it up as early as mom would allow. Even though Curt had been declared missing in action, there were several presents under the tree for him in hopes that he would be found and make it home for another Christmas miracle. Just a few weeks later, I remember my principal calling me out of my fourth
grade classroom to come to the office. As I made my way down the hallway, I could hear him calling my other elementary siblings over the intercom to do the same.
Our principal told us he was letting us go home early for lunch that day. In those days if you lived close enough to school, you could walk home for lunch, and we did so nearly every day. But this time was different; we all left for home together trying to figure out why we were allowed an early dismissal. As we walked down the alley leading to our home, our house came into view with an unfamiliar green car parked out front. Bewildered by what awaited us, we hurried on home.
As we anxiously walked through the door, two Army officers sadly delivered the agonizing news that Curt had been killed in action on December 4, 1970; he was just twenty years old. I really don't remember much about Christmas that year other than when it came time to take the tree down, there underneath, sat the unopened presents for Curt.
Every year since then, when we put up our family Christmas tree, I always think about how sad I felt to see Curt's presents still sitting there, unopened.
Now, as I write this short story, I realize that every Christmas, since that time, Curt has remained with us through beautiful thoughts of him. Each time we share those fond memories, it is like opening a present for Curt. To those who did not know my brother Curt, he gave us all a perfect gift…the gift of freedom and self determination so that we can live in a better world today.
Curt was proud and honored to give that ultimate sacrifice. I remember Curt wrote in one of his many letters home that he loved God; he loved his country; and he loved his family.
Thank you big brother! We love you too.
On behalf of my loving brother, Curt, I would like to say to every military member and their family, thank you for your gift of service to this great country. Your sacrifices are not unnoticed; they are appreciated and never taken for granted.
By Celese Tyner - Sister
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