Camp Holloway Discussion Forum Archive 02 - 05/07/01 to 02/28/03

Col. Jack

I was browsing the VHPA site the other day; and somewhere about mid-page found a link to the 1972 Easter Offensive at Kontum. << The Easter Offensive in 1972 - the Battle of Kontum by Lt. Col. John G. "Jack" Heslin (U.S.Army, retired) >>

This is a very good website which describes the NVA's aborted attempt to wrest Kontum from the ARVNs in April-May of 1972. The 119th's very own Smilin' Jack Heslin, who was a Slick Platoon Leader and Operations Officer in 1968, was back in Nam for his second tour; and was working for the 52nd CAB at Holloway, and became the Information Officer for this area during these operations.

The URL is: http://www.thebattleofkontum.com/
Tootle on over and take a look-see. And say hi to Jack at: jack@thebattleofkontum.com

The descriptions of the Battle's progress, from Rocket Ridge and FSBs 5 and 6, to Tan Canh and Dak To, from Ben Het to Polei Kleng, and finally to the city of Kontum itself; with maps and pictures, really brought back some powerful and vivid memories of that whole area. Check it out, but be prepared to spend some time there. I have spent about 4 nights myself!!

Jack finished his first tour in Oct 1968; but I'm sure he remembers Marty. I've invited him to come over here and visit; I hope he does.

Pickett