FSB Ripcord

“Jim Saller, Jerry Dubro and I went to the 101st PIO who sternly told us neither Army nor civilians were allowed on Ripcord. So, we went to the dust-off pad and asked if we could go on the next dust-off to Ripcord. LTC Lucas was a bit surprised to see us and told us under no circumstances could we go out with the grunts but we were welcome to stay on the FSB. We stayed four or five days, I guess, and then Saller got wounded. He and Jerry went back and the deal was I would stay a bit longer. I did and then wienied out when the 120 mm mortars arrived. Not long after that the base was abandoned.
Keith Nolan's book on Ripcord  was beautifully done for those who want more info.

 - Sp5 Chris Jensen

The Battle of Fire Support Base Ripcord was a 23 day battle between the U.S. Army 101st Airborne Division and the North Vietnamese Army from July 1, 1970 until July 23, 1970. It was the last major confrontation between United States ground forces and North Vietnam of the Vietnam War. Little was known about the battle until 1985, when the FSB Ripcord Association was founded. Three Medals of Honor and five Distinguished Service Crosses were earned during the operations.

221st Photographers Christoper Jensen and Jim Saller are members of the FSB Ripcord Association

Contact me with any comments, pictures or information:  pberk@berks.com- Paul