Dave Wagenblatt and I both arrived at Phu Cat Airbase, Republic of Vietnam in January of 1970 and left (fortunately) in January of 1971. Dave and I served multiple functions at Phu Cat and the surrounding area, with various functions of supply being our primary task. We are still friends and in contact on a regular basis. Dave and his wife have visited us when they traveled to our area, and we hope to visit them sometime in the future. Dave is an accomplished photographer and artist and I am proud to call him my friend. Dave’s poignant story shows how even a small symbol can keep you going, in difficult circumstances.
Faith
By Dave Wagenblatt
I have a story to tell you. The picture you see are the dog tags I wore while I was in Vietnam. I hung them on my bunk there. If you look closely, you will see a Saint Christopher medal. It was given to me in 1969 by a neighbor, Dr. Robert Mackey just before I left for Vietnam. He had gotten this while in Rome and told me it had been blessed by the Pope. What a wonderful and thoughtful gift. Although I am not Catholic, I am a Christian and was and am grateful.
Continuing with the story, I arrived in Vietnam in January of 1970. While there I hung these dog tags and Saint Christopher on my bunk at night, if I was there. Otherwise, I wore them. You might find this strange or unusual because of what happened; however, I believe it was the hand of Providence who was watching over me. Actually, I have felt that way all my life and feel I have a guardian angel.
Dave, on duty in Vietnam
While in Vietnam, every time without exception that we had a rocket attack on us, I would wake up about 30 – 45 seconds before the first rocket hit knowing something was about to hit the fan. Of course, while this was happening, I was saying a prayer while taking cover low to the ground. You never know.
Today at this time, I am 76 years old. There doesn’t seem to be a day that goes by that something happens and I am back there in my mind. I still have these dog tags and Saint Christopher hanging above my bed and am still watched over. Thank you, Lord.
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* Phu Cat Airbase was attacked with mortars and rockets fourteen times, tear gas once and sapper attacks twice during the year Dave and Joe were there.
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