April 21, 2017 1630 Vietnam Time Dong Ha

It was quite a busy morning at the site of what "Vietnam Magazine" entitled the "Nightmare Battle of Nhi Ha". And May 2-16, 1968, that's what it was...and remains so. The focus of this post, however,  involves today's memorial tribute to Terri Chapdelaine, who passed away Feb 17, 2017. Terri, friend and supporter of our Vietnam effort, had recently retired from her rural Buckland, Alaska schoolteacher position and relocated to her beloved Maine. Her untimely death at age 61 was a shock to all who knew this caring, unselfish person. To me, doing something special for the children of Vietnam seemed like a fitting tribute. So, on this sweltering hot Vietnam morning, 1,250 much-needed writing tablets were distributed to the 250 students at Nhi Ha Elementary school. Prior to distribution, though, the assembled students were given an introduction to Terri, including her schoolteacher history and love for children. Each student came forward singly, received five tablets, and expressed gratitude. Those kids are so darned cute. A banner honoring Terri, situated above the point of distribution, greeted each student. It was just positively amazing. Being in a position to perform such humanitarian service is rewarding beyond description. A huge "thank you" goes out to all who contribute, thereby allowing me such an honor.

Neil

April 22, 2017 0715 Hours Vietnam Time Heading to Nhi Ha

Soon I will travel just 30 minutes to Nhi Ha, the site of a horrific battle fought by my guys May 2-16, 1968. this was Nhi Ha.

Neil Hannan May 6, 1968

Sgt. Stone "Stoney"

April 20, 2017 1740 Vietnam Time Dong Ha

CHICKEN DISTRIBUTION TUESDAY APRIL 18

Scheduled for 0800, the chicken distribution ceremony was delayed 1½ hours due to a faulty battery in Khanh’s car. After replacement at the Hyundai dealership, we were on our way.

On arrival in Vinh Phu Commune, the 20 recipients (or designated representatives) were waiting patiently in the stifling heat. 1,000 chicks, 21 days of age, were corralled in a makeshift fenced area. Fortunately, watering devices had been provided to make the recently- feathered critters more comfortable during the distribution process. Immediately prior to getting started, I gave a brief description of the program, to include intent and funding source.  Credit was bestowed upon generous and caring contributors from the United States, plus some friends from Norway. Reference was also made to my 196^th Light Infantry comrades that served in Vietnam during the “American War”. Note the 196^th patch on the banner.  I further mentioned that Khanh of Hearts for Hue is instrumental in the success of my humanitarian program. Khanh coordinates purchases, is involved in recipient selection, makes banners, and more. Without him, I’d be up doo-doo creek without a paddle.  Really, it's a partnership.

Then came the task of loading the little peepers into a variety of both store-bought and homemade cages, one recipient at a time. It was quite the task catching and caging the scurrying, sun-drenched little things, with 50 going into each cage.  As each cage was loaded, it was strapped onto a motorbike or bicycle and taken home.  Even with our late arrival, coupled with extreme heat, the procedure went fine with zero chick fatalities.  With the cement dotted with chick droppings and remnant feathers lofting about in the breeze, we packed up the banner and headed back to Hue.

A special thank you goes out to Vy of Hearts for Hue, who rushed around feverishly on such a hot day with camcorder and camera, capturing this grand event. 

Here is a hot-of-the press article from Hearts for Hue's newsletter regarding this 1,000-chicken distribution:

Hearts for Hue Newsletter

April 20, 2017 1340 Vietnam Time Dong Ha

I was dropped off by bus in downtown Dong Ha about 0930 this morning. With much luggage to carry, I asked a girl standing nearby how far it might be to my hotel. She offered to take me, baggage and all, on her motorbike. Holy cow, I couldn't understand how everything could possibly fit. Well, it was quite the balancing act, but we did it. Upon being dropped off at the hotel, I asked how much I owed for the transportation service. "Nothing...glad to help you", was her response. I asked again, reaching for my wallet. Still she refused,  reaffirming that she just wanted to help me out. What a nice welcome to Dong Ha....stark contrast to May, 1968.

Now I will walk to the market, about one kilometer distant, to purchase a gift. At 1630 someone is supposed to show up here at the hotel to discuss transportation for tomorrow and the next day. Two busy days are on the horizon. Tomorrow is the distribution of 1,250 writing tablets at Nhi Ha School...5 tablets to each of 250 students...one student at a time...89.6F (37C). Today is the same temp. Gosh, my body inside and the outside temp are the same! The tablets are being donated in memory of Terri Chapdelaine, school teacher and friend, who passed away unexpectedly Feb 17. If the banner turns out as I designed, it will be an amazing tribute to a wonderful person who touched the lives of so many.

Neil

March 9, 1955     Terri Chapdelaine       Feb 17, 2017