Vietnam movie hits the mark

I had the pleasure of viewing a sneak preview of We Were Soldiers. I agree with "Hollywood Gets Vietnam Right This Time" (February) by Joe Galloway, completely. Watching it made me feel as though I was back beating the boonies. (My tour was two years after Ia Drang.)

Kudos to Mel Gibson and Joe Galloway. Remarkably, the director even followed the book in most circumstances. As a 1st Cavalry Division veteran, I am sure the blanket on my right shoulder will get a bit more respect as a result of this movie.

Eric Schultz
Tonawanda, N. Y.

I was very pleased to see the February cover story dedicated to the 7th Cavalry Regiment. It is long overdue for Americans to see what happened to our men in "Satan's Domain." I proudly served with A Co., 7th Cav, being wounded in the Que Son Valley on Jan. 3, 1968.

Wayne R. Gibbs
Ellisburg, N. Y.

Although I enjoyed the review of We Were Soldiers, Joe Galloway is off the mark in stating that it is the first film to pay respect to Vietnam veterans. The 1987 film Hamburger Hill--about the siege of Hill 937 by units of the 101st Airborne Division in May 1969--most certainly did.

To quote a review: "From the first scene to the last, Hamburger Hill traces the rise and fall of their battle experience, from the horror of firefights to the camaraderie of men who've faced death and survived. Racial tensions flare and subside, trusts are established, and courage emerges from unexpected places ..."

Frank H. Staley
Upper Marlboro, Md.

The 2nd Battalion of the 7th Cavalry also was at Ia Drang in 1965. In fact, the majority of the KIA were from that unit. They should not be forgotten. B Troop was sent to reinforce the 1st Battalion and was a major factor in turning back the enemy. I pray that the gallant men of 2/7 are acknowledged for their contribution and bravery in battle.

Norman F. Cotton
E-Mail

As a member of B Co., 1st Bn., 8th Cav, I was on the detail policing the battlefield after the battle. And it was amazing what we had to do. I'll never forget the look on one dead man's face, covered with a poncho and sitting up by a tree waiting to be evacuated by helicopter.

I am sure you will not print this letter, but I had to let you know just how I feel. All the commanders at Ia Drang should have been investigated for their negligence in getting so many young soldiers killed there.