Uncommon Valor is how I would describe
the men of the Long Ranger Reconnaissance Patrol that became the Long Range Patrol,
and in February 1969, they became Long Range Patrol Rangers of the 75th Ranger
Regiment. Regardless of the time, they all performed like missions missions that
took them deep into enemy held territory. Here they gathered information for the
commanders to use in planning large scale operation against the enemy. The teams
worked far in front of friendly forces taking untold risk that saved many American
and Allied lives. Their deeds were pretty much unknown to most soldiers involved
in these large scale operation. More than not, the teams never looked at it this
way either.The LRRP/LRP/Rangers were assigned some of the most dangerous missions
in the history of the army and being so good at what they did, they sent shivers
down the spines of the enemy. Feared so by the enemy they eventually formed tracker
team to hunt the teams down. Our teams were mostly made up of 4 men working so
close to the enemy, but yet, most went undetected. These small teams were supported
by the commander's response, communication, artillery, helicopter slicks, gun
ships, and at times by fighter/bomber aircraft. Once in contact the teams relied
on each other and their combat skills until help arrived. I failed to mention
that life expectance for the men making up the teams, was slim to none. With rewards
on their heads of $1000-2500 dollars, dead or alive, rewards initiated by the
North Vietnamese Government. Why would a person place himself in such danger?
After all you had to volunteer to get in and no one I know was ever forced to
serve with the Long Range Patrol Rangers. Strictly the decision of the man. This
alone defines Nathaniel Irving the man. This took much courage to want serve in
such a unit. Wanting to be his best, he wanted to be with the best! He was a man
of adventure, one that liked challenging the unknown, and this he did until the
team was discovered on this particular mission, and taken under heavy small arms
fire. Fighting with all they had, but being out numbered and receiving intense
fire, two members gave their all before help could get to them. Nathaniel and
his team leader Kenneth Hess were killed. This day America and the world lost,
but Heaven gained. These two precious souls rejoined with The God that sent them
for a Season and a Reason. When we stand by the resting place or think upon the
missing loved one, it brings back many memories, mostly of the joy he left. We
may shed many tears, but know, if Nathaniel or his team leader Kenneth could speak
to us they would most likely tell us, all is well, God is neigh. Nathaniel your
time was way too short as we understand time. You have made the highest contribution
to Freedom that one can make, you gave your life. Rest now from your labors and
one day we will meet again. Anyone wishing to make a contribution to Nathaniel's
tribute it will be welcomed by all. To the family members that have been all these
years without Nathaniel, we from our heart do thank your for standing strong.
May you know, we his brothers born of the Vietnam war, do love and miss him to
this day.
Bob Smyers |
