HOT HOT HOT 17 April 2009, I received an e-mail from Thom Kirkpatrick last week about there being a 1097th Reunion this coming October. After a few e-mails with John Crenshaw I have the basic details, 9-12 October 2009, Columbus Day Weekend in the Ft Eustis/Newport News area. I am planning on attending and would like to make a humble request, if anyone has any scanned copies of their pics from any era of the 1097th and would like to share them please give them to me and I will add them on the page. The longer I keep this page going them more I want it to by OUR page and not MY page. I will update with more details as I get them.

Something else that's been on my mind for a few years, contact information on the Raiders of the Past list. For a long time I have wanted to include contact information for those that wanted their contact information listed. Once down side to this is people who you don't want to have your contact information have a way to get it and pester you. The decision is 100% yours. If you want your e-mail or snail mail address listed under your profile in theRaiders of the Past let me know stating this and I will post as you desire. I would also like an updated profile if you so desire so I can also update this at the same time. It you want this please contact either of us E-mail Sean or E-mail Tom



If your name is on this list than more than likely you know where you have been and what you did in Panama and what you are doing now. I am finally finished with all of the Bios. If you want to add anything to your Bio e-mail Me! If your name should be on this list, or know of others that should be on this list send me an E-mail!Please include the name, nickname and the approximate or exact dates. Also if I forgot your name on this list don’t take any offence by this, almost all of the names of the 1990s were taken from memory. Please remember that after over six years and about 500 different faces it is sometimes difficult to remember.



F
James Fairbanks, early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Guy Fairweather, 1994 - 1995
Guy Fairweather joined the 1097th shortly before the move to the Pacific side. He was assigned to the Meduim Boat platoon as the Coxswain of one of the LCMs, the 04 I think. I remember he shared a family house, that was an extension of the barracks for some NCOs, with Eric Eggers and Lovo Frio. If my memory serves, he was one of the first to move to the Pacific in early 1995. He left Panama sometime after the move to the Pacific side. He was assigned to one of the unit at Eustis. He is presently assigned as a Small Group Leader (SGL) at the NCO Academy at Eustis. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Mark Farley, 1976, Dec 1989 - Feb 92
From Mark Farley's own hand: "Mark A. Farley, MSG Ret. I was with the unit when it moved to Panama in 1976 my last name was Wilson then I left 78. I returned in 1989 my last name was Farley I assumed duties as 1SG from Dec 89 until Feb 92. I retired from the army in Aug 98. Take care past river raiders your always in my heart waterborne." Updated 20 October 2006.

Raymond Fehrenbach, late 1970s
Raymond Fehrenbach was an Infantry Officer that replaced Captain Cartwright as the Commanding Officer after the failed IG Inspection in mid 1977. He used Infantry Tactics and Infantry Discipline while in command. From Ray Fehrenbach's own hand in an e-mail a month ago, "Are you still updating the 1097th Trans Co (MB)

Raymond G. Fehrenbach
Commanded the 1097th in 1977-78 as an Infantry officer. I still have a history written by one on the TC LT's.

Ray

R. Fehrenbach
Updated 20 Oct 2006.

John Fell, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Dexter Fells, mid 1980s
After leaving Panama Dexter Fells was assigned to Eustis. During the 1990s he was working as an Instructor at T- School. UPDATE: He is now assigned as the First Sergeant of 73rd (I think either that or 97th). He is still on active duty and he recently cornered the baldheaded webmaster here and set him straight.

Here's an e-mail from his wife:
Hello,

I am Dexter's wife. I was surfing along and found your site. We are currently assigned to V Corps, Heidelberg, Germany. Dexter is the G4 Transportation NCOIC. He is currently in Bagdad from January 2006 Jan 2007. He is assigned to Multi National Coalition, Iraq, CJ4. I am planning a speedy retirement for him after this deployment.

I hope that is enough updates for now. If you need any more, give me a holla.

In His Service,

Lisa G. Fells

Updated 10 March 2006

Paul Ferreira, mid 1990s until 1998 or 1999
Paul Ferreira joined the 1097th in the mid 1990s. He was assigned to Medium Boat Platoon as the Coxswain of the LCM 8504. Later he was reassigned to the Heavy Boat Platoon where he stayed until he was reassigned back to Eustis. He is currently serving as a Causeway Pilot in the 331st Transportation Company. In mid to late 1999 he got married to former River Raider, Von Wuori. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Migual Figarella-Pico, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Hector Figueroa, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Brendan Fisher, latle 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Charles Fitch, 1968
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Pete "Pedro" Fleming, 1993 - 1995
Pete Joined the 1097th in late 1993. He was assigned to Heavy Boat Platoon as an Engineer. Pete spend most of his time underway but when he was off he would travel over to Jim's Tattoo Studio in Panama City with El Pirata to get some new tattoos. Several opf them were recorded on a camcorder. One in particular was surprisingly funny because an Infantry dude from the 5/87th Infantry decided he wanted to get a small devil on his backside. This guy was actually crying while he had that tattoo done. Pete and I just laughed and kept recording. Pete got out of the Army in 1995, but I can't remember if it was before or after the move to the Pacific Side. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Vicki Fleming, Mid 80s
From her most recent e-mail to me:
Being a Raider was one of the shining moments of my life and something I will never forget. The one thing I remember above all else is this: you could be the lowliest sailor on deck, but by God, when we on water we were Lords of all that be. Gawd, how I miss the canal. Maybe I wasn't the best sailor down there, but I always tried my best. That website of yours has brought back so many memories. Now I do historical research, genealogy, and documentation of graveyards. I give special attention to every veteran's grave. I was a rowdy little devil and I haven't changed much. I miss combat soccer and combat water polo with SF. Out of all the times I had to be overseas, it was during Iran-Contra and Noriega burning his candles at both ends. Recently found out I am cousin to Joseph "Ike" Clanton of the OK Corral fame. Today I received my certificate for a Diamond Leadership Award in the Commanders Club of local veterans' group.
Tah-Tah,
V. Fleming
River Raider (YES!!!!)
Updated 21 January 2005

Kevin Floehr, early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Gordon "Lovo Frio" Folk, 1981 - 1983, 1986 - 1990, 1994 - 1996
What can be said about Lovo Frio? Lovo graduated from High School in 1981. He enlisted in the Army to be an Aviation Electronics Something but washed out of AIT and was either given the Mariner MOS or he chose it. Whatever the reason, Lovo took to boats like a fish to water. After graduating from AIT he joined the 1097th as his first duty assignment. During his first tour he was assigned to one of the LCMs. Lovo was one of the original "Downrangers."

Around 1983 he returned to the States and was assigned to Fort Story, I think. After he spent a few years either the powers that be decided that he would be better off being assigned back in the 1097th or they were just tired of him sending requests to be reassigned to 1097th. During this tour he re-established himself as a Downranger. I think it was on this tour that he met his future wife, Matilda who was from Cartagena, Colombia. Lovo participated in just about every mission and operation that the company was involved in during this time frame. He participated in Operation Just Cause and spent some of that time hauling POWs in the well-deck of his LCM. It was on this tour that he established himself as a Mike Boat God.

In November 1990 he was reassigned to the 309th Transportation Detachment, Fort Story. He was assigned as a Crew Chief of one of the LARCs. At this time he was still an E-4P that was trying to get promoted to SGT before he hit his Retention Control Point (RCP), which was the point where the Army can discharge people for failing to get promoted. Lovo tried to reclassify first as Special Forces, which he failed the grueling 10 Special Forces Assessment Selection (SFAS). Later he tried to reclass to be EOD but was unable to accomplish this for some reason. The one unfortunate thing that had happened was that he was given a Top Secret security clearance and was unable to return to South of the Border to get Matilda so they could get married. Lovo finally decided that it was time to get out of the Army because he was not going to be able to get promoted before his RCP date. He was planning on getting out in late September 1992.

On 1 August 1992 he was promoted to Sergeant while he was on a mission in Florida. Over the next nearly 60 days he and the entire command did everything within their power to keep him in the Army. Finally 1 October it was decided that he could stay in the Army and he continued his duty as a Crew Chief, but there was one catch, Finance had gotten this information. He was forced to live off of no pay for the next few months, and a few loans from his close friends. Now that he was promoted he could resume his next goal of being reassigned to the 1097th. He must have filled out one paper each week until the powers that be decided that over 100 requests and two years was long enough for him to wait.

Lovo returned to his home in mid to late 1994. In the city of Colon, he was now a legend. He walked through the door of one of his favorite bars in Colon right after arriving in country. Everyone within the bar howled. Lovo had returned to his den. Next Lovo got in touch with Matilda in Colombia and had her fly to Panama and the two were married in mid 1995. Lovo was assigned to the Medium Boat Platoon as the Coxswain of the LCM 8502. In early 1996 Lovo sailed on the LCU 2017 on a mission to the States. It was his first time sailing on a real mission aboard a Class A Vessel as part of the crew. He returned to the Medium Boat Platoon as Coxswain of the LCM 8501 upon his return from the States. In the last days of July 1996 Lovo and El Pirata broached their boats on Pina Beach at the mouth of the Rio CHagres. The Chain of Command freaked, to say the least. As far as they were concerned, this was the first time that an LCM had ever been broached. After 4 days the 01 was finally pulled off by a commercial tugboat. Lovo was again getting close to his RCP date. Unfortuately the powers that be did not promote him and he got out of the Army after 15 years of service in late 1996.

To the best of my knowledge, Lovo holds the record for the most total time spent in the 1097th, 9 +/- years. Lovo and Matilda returned to his home of Michigan where they currently live. Lovo works part time for the local police department and goes to night school to be a RN. I have no further information. Information as of 7 May 2000.

Fonseca (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Tom Formby, 1993 - 1996(Updated June 2009)
Tom Formby was assigned to the 309th Transportation Detachment, Fort Story as the Chief Engineer on one of the LARCs(LX 47)for a few years before he was assigned to the 1097th in mid-1993 after attending 88L20 school. He was assigned to LCM 8519 for the first 8-9 months of his three year tour and then assigned to the LCU 1669 USAV Marseilles immediately after graduating from PLDC at Fort Sherman. After he returned to Ft. Eustis, he was assigned to the ST 2199 USAV Valcour Island (73rd Trans Co. and 8th Trans Co.) where he remained until he left the Army in late 1997. He attened college full-time at Old Dominion University and graduated with honors in 2001. He's a Human Resources professional in Pittsburgh, PA. E-mail Tom


Isiah Forward, early 1990s
Isiah Forward joined the 1097th in the early 1990s. During his time in the 1097th he was the Maintenance NCO and later he was the Acting First Sergeant. He left Panama long before the move to the Pacific side, but I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

John Foster, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Carroll Fowlkes, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Fox (first name unknown, male), mid 1990s
Fox was assigned to the 309th Trans Det, Ft Story, Va as his first duty assignment. He was assigned as an engineer aboard one of the LARCs. He joined the 1097th either shortly before or shortly after the move to the Pacific Side. He was assigned as an Engineer aboard one of the Heavy Boats. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Wayne Fox, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Frake (first name unknown, male), early - mid 1990s
Frake was joined the 1097th in the early 1990s. He was assigned as an Engineer in the Heavy Boat Platoon. He left Panama shortly after the move and got out of the Army. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Michael Francis, mid 1990s
Michael Francis joined the 1097th shortly after the move to the Pacific Side. He was a Welder or Machinist by MOS but I can't remember if there was still a Welding Section of the company while he was assigned. I tend to believe that there was not a Welding Section because he was assigned as Night Shift of the Operation Section for nearly all of his time in the 1097th. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Mickey Franklin, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Fransella (first name unknown, gender unknown), late 1980s - early 1990s
Built like a tank Sp4 armor as I remember him. I still have one of the ammo cans he gave me. Updated 20 Oct 2006

Frazier (first name unknown, gender unknown), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Stephen "Fred" Frederick, mid - late 1990s
Fred was assigned to Panama first as the Operations NCO for the 245th Support Battalion then later he joined the 1097th as a Mate aboard one of the LCU 2000s. Fred left the 1097th in the late 90s and was assigned somewhere on Eustis. Frey (first name unknown, gender unknown), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Scott Fulton, early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Troy Funk, early - mid 1990s
Troy Funk joined the 1097th in the early 1990s. I think he had some time in Medium Boat, but for the time that I knew him he was in Heavy Boat. He left Panama either right before the move or right after to be assigned as Eustis. I think he is still in the Army, but I have not seen him since I got back. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Frye (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.




G
Paula Gadrim, mid 1980s
Paula Gadrim was in the 1097th in the mid 1980s. I have no knowledge of what she did while she was there, but I have seen a video or two of some of the missions that she sailed on while she was there. She was reassigned to the 309th Tans Co, Ft Story, Va and stayed there until the mid 1990s when she joined the Reserves somewhere in the Hampton Roads Area. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Galmore (first name unknown, male), early1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Hector Garcia, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Yamir Garcia, late 1990s
Sleepy joined the 1097th right out of AIT. He was assigned to both of the boat platoons at one point in time or the other. Sleepy got his nickname because all it took was for him to sit in a vehicle as a passenger and he was sleeping, but he never admitted that he was asleep, not even when he was snoring. Yamir was reassigned to Eustis in the late 90s to one one the boat units.

From Yamir Garcia's own hand, "I was just curious and googled myself and found this page wow talk about flash back so I thought it would probably be a good idea to update you on what Ive been doing.

First can you please take the sleepy out I don’t do that anymore haha second here's the update for you.

After panama went to the 558th trans CO in Ft Eustis got off active duty entered the reserves reclassed to a 91S Preventive Medicine deployed to Bosnia with the 5502 field hospital in 2004 returned to Ft Story to be deployed again to Iraq and currently on deployment as of April 06.

And made SGT nov 04 that’s about it.

SGT Garcia, Yamir A.
310th MP BN HHC
Camp Bucca, Iraq"
Updated 20 Oct 2006.

Gardner (first name unknown, male), early - mid 1990s
Gardner joined the 1097th in the early 90s he was assigned as a Boswain on one of the Heavy Boats. He got out of the Army from Panama in the mid 90s shortly before the move to the Pacific Side. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Anthony Garner, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Richard Garner, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Alvin Garrett, early 1990s
He told the Bn Cmdr that he did not have to shave everyday because he had a baby face and his beard did not grow. This was in a Company Inspection by the BN Cmnd. Updated 20 Oct 2006

Shawn Garrido, 1980 - 1982
I have no further information. Updated 8 June 2000.BR
Terry Gaskins, early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Steve Gates, early 1009s - mid 1990s
Steve Gates was assigned as an Engineer aboard the LCU 2018. He changed the entire maintenance and parts request system and made it into a smooth running machine. I think he got out of the Army from Panama shortly before the move to the Pacific Side. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Christopher, Gauthreax, early - mid 1990s
Christopher Gauthreax was assigned to the Heavy Boat Platoon. He left Panama in the mis 1990s shortly before the move to the Pacific Side. Chris Gauthreax became a Warrant Officer and is currently a CW4 in my current command, 331st Causeway. I have no further information. Updated 15 Sept 2006.

Georgory (first name unknown, gender unknown), late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Gesking (first name unknown, male), late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Mike "Chino" Giachino, late 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Emmitt Gilbert, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Barry "Sergeant Barry" Giles, mid 1990s until 1998 or 1999
Sergeant Barry joined the 1097th shortly after the move to the Pacific Side. He was assigned an an Engineer aboard one of the LCU 1600s. After the 1600s were removed from the inventory, he was assigned as an Engineer on one of the LCU 2000s. He left the 1097th in 98 or 99 to be assigned to one of the boat units at Eustis. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Gill (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Paul Gillaspie, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Jeff Glem, 1995 - mid 1990s
Jeff Glem was assigned to the 309th Trans Co Ft Story, right out of AIT. He was assigned as Chief Engineer aboard one of the LARCs. Before he got married his fiancee more or less lived in his barracks room and she continued to live there for several months after they were married. Jeff Glem joined the 1097th in 1995. He was assigned as the Chief Engineer aboard one of the LCM in the Medium Boat Platoon. Shortly after his arrival he was given the traditional "WATERBORNE" welcome by being tossed into the water, unwillingly. Unfortuately he lost his wedding ring somewhere in Sherman Lagoon and I caught hell from his wife for throwing him in. He left Panama and was reassigned to Eustis. Currently he is assigned to the 331st Trans Co. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Jose Gomez, early - mid 1990s
Jose Gomez joined the 1097th in the early 1990s. He was assigned to the Motor Pool. I think he stayed in the Company until just after the move to the Pacific Side where he was reassigned to the CID. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Carlos Gonzales, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Jed Gonzales, mid 1990s
Jed Gonzales joined the 1097th in the mid 1990s. He was a reclass from some Combat Arms MOS. He was the poster Boy for the AER annual campaign while he was in Combat Arms. He had an "I love me" wall in his barracks room. He was assigned to the LCU 2017 and an Engineer. He left the 1097th in the mid 1990s. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Jesus "Gonzo" Gonzales, mid - late 1990s
Gonzo joined the 1097th in the mid 1990s. He was assigned as the Chief Engineer on one of the LCMs in the Medium Boat Platoon. Jesus's wife Anna was in charge of the 1097th Family Support Group for about a year. Jesus was reassigned to Eustis in the late 1990s. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Tony Goss, early - mid 1990s
Tony Goss joined the 1097th in the early 1990s. He was assigned as a Seaman on one of the Heavy Boats. He was later assigned as a Seaman on one of the LCMs. Tony got out of the Army from Panama.

I got an E-mail from Tony a few weeks ago. He knows were a few of the former Raiders are located and we are talking about the upgrade for this site. Updated 7 May 2000.

Darin Gouldrup, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Jason Grable, mid 1990s
Jason Grable joined the 1097th in the mid 90s. He came over from another unit in Panama that had deactivated. He was assigned kind of as a hey you type that really had no official job, but just had to do anything that he was asked. He owned a pet coatamundi that he kept at his house in Vera Cruz. One day River Raider Paul Tuttle came by the house when Jason was not home and got bit in the hand by Jason's pet. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Ken "Reverend" Graham, early - mid 1990s
Ken Graham joined the 1097th in the early 1990s. He was assigned to the Welding shop as a welder. He would generally sail on the LCMs every chance he could and was always willing to do some off duty welding if you needed something. I think he left before the move but I can't remember. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Tom "Yogi" Graham, late 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Randy Grant, early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Greg Graveline, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Wayne Green, 1993 - 1999
Wayne Green joined the 1097th in late 1993. He was assigned to the Medium Boat Platoon. He attended PLDC at Fort Sherman in early 1994 and was promoted thereafter to Sergeant. He was then reassigned as the Coxswain of one of the LCMs. He stayed in Medium Boat until the time frame of the move to the Pacific Side where he was reassigned as the Lead Seaman aboard one of the LCU 2000s. He attended BNCOC in 1996 at Fort Eustis. In late 1997 he was sent as part of a 4 person Mobile Training Team to teach the US Border Patrol small boat handling. He was also sent again in June 1998 and February 1999. He married a woman from Panama in 1998 and returned to the states in 1999. He is assigned to the 1098th Trans Company at Eustis. I have no further information. Updated 7 May 2000.

Ken Gregory, early 1990s - mid 1990s
Ken Gregory joined the 1097th in the early 1990s. I think he only was assigned to the Medium Boat Platoon but I don't know for sure. One of his jobs while in the Medium Boat Platoon was sevving as the Platoon Maintenance Rep. When the vessels would have a problem he would go down to the boat and troubleshoot the problem so that when the Maintenance Platoon received the Work Request the preliminary work had been done and all that was left would be to solve the problem. Ken Gregory left the 1097th in the mid 1990s, but well before the move. He was assigned to Fort Eustis where I am told he is to this day.

UPDATE: Ken has been a Warrant Officer for a few years and is a CW3 now. We talked in passing a few weeks ago where I found this detail. I have no further information. Updated 21 Jan 2006.

Grizelles (first name unknown, gender unknown), late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Grogon (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Gross (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Scott Gross, May 86 - Dec 89
From the guestbook:
Greetings all, welll I submitted my Bio several times for update, so here it is, I am working for the Veterans Admin in the Fayeteville Medical Center! Departed the Army 10/10/1992 from Ft. Bragg, NC 18th Airborne Corps.I served with the 1097th from 05/86 to 12/89, left Panama the afternoon before the big bang! Went 558th Dive Boat and then engine rebuild shop, and last FT. Bragg. Looking for anyone who served with me. Lud answer your emails!!!!!!!!!
I have no further information. Updated 21 June 2005.

Growden, 1985 - 1987.
I have no further information as of 20 Oct 2006

David "Guch" Guccione, 1989 - 1991, 1995 - 1999
David Guccione was drafted into the Army during the Vietnam War. After he returned from Vietnam he got out of the Army where he stayed in the cililian sector until he returned to Active Duty in the mid 1980s. Upon he return to the Army he was assigned to the 309th Tran Detachment at Story. He served as a Crew Chief aboard the LARCs and also as a Platoon Sergeant.

In Autumn 1989 Guch was promoted to the rank of Sergeant First Class while he was on vacation pending his assignment to the 1097th. On Guch's first tour in the 1097th I don't know very much, but he participated in Operation Just Cause and met the love of his life, but was unable to get married proir to leaving Panama. He returned to the States in 1991 where he was reassigned to the 309th Transportation Company at Story. While in the 309th he served as a Platoon Sergeant, Operations Sergeant and also as First Sergeant. He frequently returned south of the border to take care of the marriage paperwork that he needed in order to get married to, now his wife, Teresa. Sometime between 1993 and 1995 he was reassigned to a unit at Eustis where he served until he returned to Panama in 1995.

He was assigned as the Mate aboard the LCU 2017 in the Heavy Boat Platoon. While on the 2017 he was kept pretty busy. Generally the Vessel Master and Guch would work 6 hours on and 6 hours off which gave them very little time to sleep. in the calender year of 1996 the 2017 had over 338 days underway out of 365. This meant that Guch did not get very much time with his family. After serving on the 2017 Guch was reassigned as the Operations NCO and more or less spent the remainder of his tour bouncing between Operations and as the First Sergeant. Guch left Panama in July 1999. He was the absolute last person left in the 1097th.

Guch was assigned to HHC Post at Eustis and was going to take over the Post Equal Opportunity Advisor as soon as he finished a 3 month school that started in September 1999. Guch went to school and graduated in December 1999 where he started his new job. He just recently bought a house and plans to retire from the Army in 3 years.

Guch has retired from the Army and is working at Lowes as a Manager. He still lives in the house he bought in 2000. I have no further information. Updated 13 November 2005.

David Guichard, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Marshall Guiterrez, 1993 - 1995
Marshall Guiterrez replaced Keith Bax as the Commanding Offricer in mid 1993. He kept the vessels running at all costs. It was similar to the days of Gus Pagonis where the motto was "Never deadline a vessel." The troops finally began to figure his motives out in the early months of 1994 where they began not deadlining vessels for faults but limiting the type of operations that the vessels could perform. The crews were tired of the policy of "all crew members of deadlined vessels would work 0600 - 2400 until the vessel was back up and running." The crews and maintenance personnel worked remarkably well at making the vessels work. For the efforts of the entire company during this time the unit was awarded the National Defense Transportation of the Year award in 1995 for the accomplishments during 1994. Marshall Guiterrez's last action as Commander was to ready the unit for the move to the Pacific Side, but not actually move, instead returning to the States instead. He is still in the army and is a Major now.

An unfortunate update for your River Raiders page:


Army Lt. Col. Marshall A. Gutierrez, 41, of New Mexico; assigned to the Area Support Group, Arijan, Kuwait; died Sep. 4 from non-combat related injuries in Camp Virginia, Kuwait. The incident is under investigation. Updated 15 Sept 2006.

Ramiro Guiterrez, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Martin Gulbis, 1978 - 1980, 1982 - 1984
Martin Gulbis was assigned to the 1097th right after the move to Panama and in early 1980s. He dropped me an e-mail a few days ago and I will more info on his as soon as I get it. I have no further information. Updated 8 June 2000.

Gunderson, 1976 -1979
Gunderson was a Cook who reclasses to be a Deckie. He received his training and certification through OJT. I have no further information. Updated 8 June 2000.




H
Doug Hadden, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Haefka, John, March 1990 - April 1993
From his own hand via an E-mail to me:
Hello,

Ok, I'm at my wits end trying to figure out who you are? Perhaps I just over looked it while scanning your site? I'm John Haefka. I was there from March 90 to April 93. Anyway, I like the page. You seem to have put a tremendous amount of time into it. Good job.

As for me, here is a brief bio since I left. I left there as an E-6 in 93 and went straight to Warrant school from Panama. Then went to 10th Bn at Eustis. I was in the 97th HB and then 73rd during the next several years. I went to the 824th Heavy Boat in Morehead City in June 99. Made CW3 in 2000, and am on my way back to Eustis to take over the 10th Bn Marine Maint Officer job. Coincidently, the movers will be here in three days, and we will be back at Ft. Eustis in 5 days.

Anyway, this address I am writing from will be disconnected tomorrow, so I will get in touch with you again once we get set-up in Va. Have a good weekend and a wonderful and safe 4th of July.

Hef

I have no further information. Updated 2005.

Mack Hagewood, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Todd Hall, early - mid 1990s
Todd Hall was assigned to the 331st Transportation Company (ACV) at Story right out of AIT. He spend 3 or 4 years at Story before joining the 1097th in late 1993. He was assigned as a Coxswain in the Medium Boat Platoon. He was later assigned to an LCU in the Heavy Boat Platoon. H returned to the States right before the move to the Pacific Side. I have seen him a few times in passing here at Eustis. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Peter Hamann, late 1980s - mid 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Jeanne Hammond, 1998 - 1999
Jeanne Hammond replaced Guch as the First Sergeant in mid 1998. She was orininally a trucker and when she was told of her assignemnt into the 1097th she asked, "What kind of trucks do they have?" She found out immediately that there were no trucks in the 1097th and that it was a boat unit. She stayed until the end of the unit and was somewhere around the last 10 people left in the unit in mid 1999. She was reassigned to the 558th Marine Maintenance Company at Eustis as the First Sergeant. When you think of the possibilities of a Transportation First Sergeant and all of the places that they can go it is pretty amazing to think that she got assigned to 2 boat units in a row. I guess she has the Marine Identifier now. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Scott Haney, April 1984 - April 1986
I have no further information. Updated 17 March 2006. Kane Hannam, 1994 - 1996
Kane Hannam joined the 1097th in 1994. He was a plumber by MOS but was assigned to Operations because there was no position for a plumber in the company. He assisted in the move to the Pacific Side. He left the 1097th in 1996 to be reassigned to West Point as a plumber. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Katie Hanson, early 1990s
You have her listed as "Katie". If this is the same person I knew she left Panama and was stationed back to FEVA. Her Dalmatian dog bit my daughter once. Nice family. Updated 20 Oct 2006

Norman Hard, late 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Susanne Harden, early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Hardesty, 1978 - 1980
I have no further information. Updated 8 June 2000.<BR
Kenneth Hardy, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Jack Hargas, early - mid 1990s
Jack Hargas was assigned to the 1097th in the early 1990s. He was the Coxswain on the LCM 8504. He bought an old truck that had a column shift that he ended up selling to Scott Carr. He left Panama before the move. I think he stayed in the Army and was assigned to Eustis. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Harris (first name unknown, gender unknown), mid 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Harris (first name unknown, gender unknown), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Harris (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Duanne Harris, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Rodrick Harrison, Late 1970s
I have no further information as of 4 March 2007

Brian Harshman, late 1980s - early 1990s
Brian Harshman was assigned to the 1097th during Just Cause and after he left Panama he was assigned to the 331st Transportation Company at Story. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Tamara Hastings, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Hatcher (first name unknown [I want to say his first name was Marvin], male), early - mid 1990s
Hatcher was assigned as a mate to one of the LCUs in the Company. He left Panama before the move and was reassigned to Eustis. He is currently assigned as a First Sergenat in one of the units at Eustis. Updated 20 Oct 2006.

James Hatcher, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Robert Hathaway, 1998 - 1999
CPT Robert Hathaway joined the River Raiders as Commander, taking the helm form CPT Brent Barnes in May of 1998 and served until the unit deactivated. While serving as "The Last Commander", he had the dubious honor of deactivating the 1097th Transportation Company (Composite Boat). Transfering the two LCU 2000's to the Reserves was accomplishment enough, as was casing the colors of the finest unit in the US Army's history in Panama.There's no way any of that could have happenned without the solid core of NCO's in the company, as well as some of the finest Warrant Officers in the watercraft field. CPT Hathaway is now assigned to an AC/RC position at Fort McCoy, WI, where it is much colder than Panama will ever be. I have no further information. Updated 17 July 2000.

Thomas Hayes, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Jennifer Havelin, early - mid 1990s
Jennifer Havelin joined the 1097th right out of AIT and assigned to one of the LCU 2000s. She got married to one of the people in the 5/87th and got out of the Army. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Hayes (first name unknown, gender unknown), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Thomas Hayes, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

David Hays, mid 1980s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Doug Heavel, early 1990s
Doug Heavel joined the 1097th in the early 1990s. He was assigned as an Engineer on one of the LCUs. He got married to a Panamanian and left the 1097th in the mid 1990s where he stayed until he got out of the Army and returned to Panama to live. As of last year he was working as a Mechanic for a private company that fixes vessels with mechanical problems that are in the Panama area. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Hebert (first name unknown, female), late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Arthur Helfgott, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Henderson (first name unknown, male), mid 1990s
Henderson was assigned to the Heavy Boat Platoon. After he left Panama he was assigned at Eustis. I think he is still here. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Johnny Henderson, early - mid 1990s
Johnny Henderson joined the 1097th in the early 1990s. He was assigned as a mechanic in the Motor Pool. He left the 1097th in the mid 1990s, but I don't know if it was before or after the move. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

John Henry, 1968 timeframe
John served as one of the CO’s during Vietnam. I have no further Information. Updated 5 May 2001

Randall Heikens, mid 1990s
Randall Heikens was assigned to the 1097th in the mid 90s. he was assigned as a Section Sergeant in the Medium Boat Platoon. I don't remember if he moved with the unit to the Pacific Side or not but I do remember him at Davis. After he left Panama he was assigned to Eustis. He went to Warrant Officer School and is now a CW2 assigned to one of the Large Tugs at Eustis. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

William Heinrich, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

John Henry, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Larry Hensley, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Herrera (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Herron (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Hester (firsat name unknown, gender unknown), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Rob Hester, mid - late 1990s
Rob Hester joined the 1097th in the Mid 90s. I think it was shortly after the move. He was assigned to the Heavy Boat Platoon as an Engineer. He was assigned to Eustis in the late 1990s. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Righard Higgins, late 1970s
I have no further information as of 4 March 2007.

Bleu Hilburn, early 1990s - about 1996
Bleu Hilburn joined the 1097th in the early 90s. He was assigned as a Platoon Leader of one of the Platoons. Later he served as the Platoon Leader of the Heavy Boat Platoon and still later as the XO, I think. He left the Company after the move and was assigned somewhere in the world. According to the Red Book he is still in the Army. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Roger Hill, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Rudy Hill, 1976 - 1979
I have no further information. Updated 8 June 2000.

Tanya Hill, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Geoffery Hilton, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Johnie Hines Jr, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Mike Hladkg, early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Hoff (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Rusty Hogan, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

David Hogate, 1968
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Bobby Holmes, late 1990s
Bobby Holmes joined the 1097th in the late 90s. He was assigned as the Boswain on one of the LCU 2000s. Later he was assigned as the Training NCO and still later he went back to the LCU 2000s. He left Panama in the late 90s and was assigned to Eustis. I have no further information. Information Updated 12 May 2000.

John Holmes, early 1990s
John Holmes joined the 1097th in the early 90s. He was assigned to the Commo Shop. John always carried a 2 liter of Pepsi and ended up drinking 2 each day while he was at work. I honestly can't remember when he left but it was long before the move. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Anabel Hooker, late 1990s
Anabel Hooker joined the 1097th in the late 90s. She was assigned to the Supply Section. After she had left the company and while I was on PCS leave I think I saw her driving in the Newport News area. I was unable to confirm that it was her or not, but I think it was. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Bill Horvath, late 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Richard Houff, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Ashley H. Houser, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

James Hoyer, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Matt Hughes, early - mid 1990s
Matt Hughes joined the 1097th in the early 1990s. He was assigned to the Medium Boat Platoon as an Engineer. He attended PLDC at Sherman and was Promoted to Sergeant. He reenlisted with the option of the next duty station being Hawaii and he left in the mid 90s prior to the move. I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Trudy Husband, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Robert Hutchins, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Hutchkins (first name unknown, male), late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Hunter (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

Lee Hyman, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000


I

Eli Ivory, 1969
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.




J
Janie Jackson, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

George Jacobs, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Updated 12 May 2000.

James Jacobs, early 1990s
I have no further information. Updated of 12 May 2000.

Tony Jaggers, 1976 - 1978
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

James (first name unknown, male), mid 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

James January, about 1967
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

John Jenson, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

Jergens (first name unknown, male), late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

Jester (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

Jiminez (first name unknown, male), late 1980s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

B. Johnson (first name unknown, gender unknown), late 1980s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

Darren Johnson, 1993 - 1999
Darren Johnson was assigned to the 1097th in early 1993. He was assigned as a Chief Engineer on one of the LCU 1600s. Later after the move to the Pacific Side and the phase out of the 1600s he was assigned as the Chief Engineer on one of the LCU 2000s. He retired from the Army in Panama. He was a CW2 Chief assigned to the LCU 67. My last boat in 94. SSG Zens was assigned as ACE. He was married to a Tica and wanted to retired and move to Costa Rica to be near her folks. No idea if that ever happened. Updated 20 Oct 2006

Carola & Mike Johnson, 1996 - 1999
The Johnsons joined the 1097th in 1996. Carola was assigned as the Platoon Sergeant of Medium Boat Platoon and Mike was assigned as the Assistant Chief Engineer aboard one of the LCU 2000s. Later Carola was reassigned as the Maintenace NCO and Mikle was reassigned as the Medium Boat Platoon Sergeant. Carola got out of the Army and Mike was reassigned to T-School at Eustis. I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

Shery Johnson, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

Jones (first name unknown, male), early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

Alfred Jones, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

Larry Jones, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

Mark Jones, 1981 - 1982
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.<BR
Francis Jordan, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

William Jorgenson, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

James Judy, mid 1980s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

Justice (first name unknown, gender unknown), mid 1970s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.




K
Johnny Khan, late 1980s<>br> I have no further information as of 4 March 2007

Ed Karinen, mid 1990s
Ed Karinen joined the 1097th in the mid 90s shortly before the move to the Pacific Side. He was assigned as to the Heavy Boat Platoon. Later he was assigned as the NBC NCO and later he went back to the LCUs. I have no further information. Information as of 12 May 2000.

Tyrone Keen, mid -late 1980s
Tyrone Keen was in the 1097th in the mid to late 80s. After he left Panama he was assigned to the 309th Trans Co at Story. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

James Keep, early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Alfredo Keeter, late 1990s
Alfredo Keeter was assigned to the 1097th in the late 90s. He was assigned as a Mate aboard one of the LCU 2000s. H left Panama in mid 1999 and was reassigned as the 10th Battalion Harbormaster NCOIC at Eustis. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Ray Keeter, mid 1980s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.<BR
Keithley (first name unknown, gender unknown), mid 1970s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Sean "El Pirata" Kelly, 1993 - 1999
Ok, I made a completely new bio on me. It is extremely long and it made stories of the time I was there and some of the feelings I had over the years. Click here to see my Bio

George Kennedy, 1968 time frame<br>George was the company 1SG during Vietnam. I have no further information. Information is as of 5 May 2001.

Jeffery Kenny, 1968
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Daniel Keplinger, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

John "Omaha" Kernell, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

John "John Boy" Kerr, early - mid 1990
John Boy joined the 1097th in the early 90s. I think he some time on the LCMs but the entire time I knew him he was an Engineer on the LCU 1600s. He left Panama in the mid 1990s to be reassigned to Eustis. When he got back from Panama he worked in the Harbormaster Office. In the summer of 99 he was reassigned to the 329th Trans Co also at Eustis. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Frederick Kersiak, Aug 1967 - Aug 1968
From his guestbook entry:
Spent an evening reading about the 1097th. Brought back many memories. I was with them from Aug 1967-Aug 1968 in Viet Nam. Served with Capt. Pagonis and later Capt. Wilde, was there when Lt Bill Young dove under a boat to free a line and we lost him that day. As the dates show I was there during the TET offensive of Feb 1968. Very interesting time in the lives of many young Americans.I have many pictures of my time there and enjoy going back and pondering the past.
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

William Key, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Il Kim, late 1980s - early 1990s
Wasn’t he the Plt Ldr who went Delta force. He was/spoke Korean or something like that. Updated 20 Oct 2006

Lashonda Kincaid, mid 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Fletcher King, mid 1990s
Fletcher King joined the 1097th in the mid 90s. I think he came over from another unit in Panama. He was assigned to either HQ or Maintenance Platoon. He was not a boat MOS, I think he was an Cargo Specialist, "Stevadore." He left 1097th in the mid 90s to be assigned to another Unit in Panama where he stayed until mid 99 when he was assigned to Eustis. Presently he is an SGL at the NCO Academy. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Thomas Kirkpatrick (As of 1July2009) Served 12/74 - 12/77
School trained engineer, OJT coxswain, SIDPERS clerk during the move
to CZ, CBR NCO.
Was a member of the Advance Party on the move.
Currently a high school teacher and a fly fisherman in Henderson, NV.

Contact Info: standards@cox.net (702) 943-1930

Willie Kirkpatrick, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Mark Knight, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Daniel Knowlton, 1994 - 1995
Daniel Knowlton joined the 1097th in mid 1994. He was assigned as an Engineer in the Medium Boat Platoon. He left the 1097th, and the Army, in early 1995. Prior to leaving he borrowed $10 from me and after he left I more or less figured that I was never going to see it again, but a few months after he left I got a chack for $15 in the mail. I was shocked. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Aaron "Canoe" Koch, mid 1990s
Canoe joined the 1097th shortly after the move to the Pacific Side. He was assigned to the Heavy Boat Platoon as an Engineer abouard one of the LCU 1600s. He was later reassigned to the LCM 8504 in the Medium Boat Platoon. After a short time in Medium Boat Platoon he was moved ovewr to the LCM 8519 to be assigned as the Chief Engineer. Canoe and Gee Golly spent most of their off time together. One morning after a long weekend they came back with their new nicknames. Canoe tried to put together a packet for a try out for the All Army Volleyball team. The entire command had approved it but DA was not accepting any applications from anyone that was stationed Overseas, guess it was not All Army. Canoe was an avid diver. He got his Basic Open Water Certification and in less than 6 months he had over 200 hours diving. He later got his Advanced Open Water Certification. He was planning on getting out of the Army and openiong a company that gave diving tours. The problem that he encountered was the the GI Bill would not cover the School where he wanted to attend so he did not know what he wanted to do next. The Platoon tried to persuade him to stay in the Army until he figured out what he was going to do but to no avail. Canoe gout out of the army in late 97 or early 99. He got a job working out at Kwajalein. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Robert Kres, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Mike Krutiac, 1994 - 1996
Mike Krutiak joined the 1097th in late 93 or early 94. For some reason I think he was assigned to Operations his entire time in Panama on the night shift. I remember he had this tiny room in the barracks all to himself. I can't remember if he made the move to the Pac Side, but if he did he was not in the Company very long after that. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Dennis Kuznicke, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.




L
Guy La Brecht, early 1990s
Guy La Brecht joined the 1097th in the early 90s. He was assigned as the Vessel Master aboard the LCU 1668. He got out of the Army in late 93 or early 94. After he left Panama I kept in touch with him for awhile, last I knew he was living in OK and sailing resupply ship in the Gulf to the oil rigs. Updated 20 Oct 2006

Mike Ladd, early 1990s
Mike Ladd joined the 1097th in the early 90s. In the time I knew him he was a Boswain on one of the Heavy Boats. He left Panama prior to the move. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Bruce Ladwig, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Chuck Lafollette, early 1990s
Chuck Lafollette joined the 1097th in the earlk 90s. He was assigned as an Engineer on one of the Heavy Boats. He left Panama prior to the move and was assigned to Eustis. I he became a Warrant Officer and is still at Eustis in the 329th Trans Co. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Daniel La Force, Early 1980s
He was stationed in Panama in the early 80s. About the same time frame as Robert May and Russell Trogden. He was originally from NY. He was my first Chief on the M-87, long may she float, in the 1098th Med Boat in 1985. He was married to a Panamanian lady. He got out and went back to NY. Nothing since then. Updated 20 Oct 2006

Gary Larry, early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Charles Lathrop, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

William Laughman, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Mike LeClair, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Michael Ledford, mid 1990s
Michael Ledford joined the 1097th in the mid 90s. He was assigned as a Welder. He later took over as NCOIC of the Welding Shop. He left Panama right before or right after the move. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Denise Leindecker, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Tracy Lemme, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Michael Leonard, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Alexander Lesio, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Lester (first name unknown, male) early 1990s
Lester reclassed from some Combat Arms MOS to become an 88K. He joined the 1097th in the early 90s. He was assigned as the Coxswain aboard the LCM 8582, the only SLEP (Service Life Extension Program) boat that the Platoon or the company had. The SLEP boat was faster under certain conditions that the older Non Slep boats, but taking 6' swells head on in a SLEP boat sucked. Lester lester left the 1097th on late 93 or early 94. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Tomaakiuno Leota, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Lester, early 90s
Lester joined the 1097th in the early 90s. He reclassed from 11B, or some other Combat Arms MOS. Panama was his first duty station as a Mariner. I have no further information. Information is as of 3 July 2000.

Marina Libro, early 1990s
She was from Boston or some NE state. Had an accent. She was room dogs with SSG Long, Dawn for awhile. Updated 20 Oct 2006

Liggon (first name unknown, male), early - mid 1990s
Liggon joined the 1097th in the early 90s. He was assigned to the Welding Shop. He made the move and after the Welding SHop was removed from the Company he worked in Operations for a year or so before he left the 1097th. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Bobby Liles, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Raymond Lilly, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Alan Lithwin, 1968 - 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Lisa Livengood, 1994 - 1997
Lisa Livengood joined the 1097th in 94. She was assigned as an Engineer aboard the LCM 8503. She later was assigned to the J-3795. She learned to surf in Panama and I took her on several surfing trips until she got the hang of it. She made the move and was later assigned to the Orderly Room where she stayed until she got out of the Army in 1997. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Terry Llewellyn, about 1967
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Ronald Locherby, late 1990s
Ronald Locherby joined the 1097th in the late 90s. He was assigned as the Vessel Master of the LCU 2018. He left the 1097th in the late 90s. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Dennis Lofton, late 1980s - early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Linda Long, early 1990s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Hector Lopez, 1969
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Michael Lord, late 1980s - early 1990s, mid - late 1990s
Michael Lord joined the 1097th right out of AIT, I think. He served with the unit during Just Cause. After this he returned to the States. He returned to Panama in the Mid 90s. He was assigned as a Coxswain on the LCM 8504, I think. He was moved to the LCU 2000s later. He got out of the Army in the late 90s. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Neil S. "Catfish" Lotridge, 1976 - 1978
One of the Raiders I remember on the first message board but for some reason I guess I forgot about adding him to the list. I am so sorry, it only takes about 38 seconds to add someone to the list but I forgot. From Catfish's own hand:
"my name is Neil S.Lotridge they called me "Catfish"I am an "original river raider" i came over with the mike boats from ft.useless in ' 76 along with cpt. cartwright and "crusher" crenshaw.i was the skipper of the 8596 after "chino" got tired of doing it.we had a hell of a good time, i left in ' 78." Information as of 12 October 2004.

Willem Loupatty, 1993 - 1997
Willem Loupatty joined the 1097th in late 93. He was assigned as the Vessel Master on the LCU 1669. I remember one time when we were trying to tie off the LCM 8503 to the 69 in a 5 knot current down in La Palma we put a major ding in the 69 and he was PO'd. He liked it even less when I produced a black magic marker and wrote, "LCM 8503 was here. SPK." He gave me a thorough butt chewing that I can still feel. Later he was reassigned to the LCU 2018 as the Vessel Master. He was set to retire when he was involuntaryly extended so that he could sail the 2018 to the Shipyard in California because there was no one else that could do it in the time frame it needed to be done. He reluctantly did this then retired.

Who could ever forget him. I think he was the skipper of the 68. He took the place of CW3 Burnett. I was on his maiden voyage locking down, at night. He tore off at least 3 fenders that night and almost but us under the water vent, the arched area by the drive across bridge where the water was released from the lock as it was lowering ships, on the way out. Then we almost collided with a PCC tug before we cleared the channel. He is the one who would catch live fish, rap them in a plastic trash bag, and put them in the freezer to flop around. He would say that he "would eat that later". Don’t know if he ever did or not. Updated 20 Oct 2006

Bill Loucks, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Love (first name unknown, male), 1993 - 1994
LOve joined the 1097th in early 1994. He came down on a 1 year tour. He was assigned as a Boswain aboard one of the LCU 2000s. He left Panama as quietly as he entered. He was assigned to Eustis. While at Eustis he was assigned to the NCO Academy. I think he has since been reassigned to Eustis but I don't know. I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Lee Loveless, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Information as of 8 June 2000.

Don Loving, late 1980s - mid 1990s
Don Loving joined the 1097th in the late 80s. He was a cook assigned to the mess hall. He was in the company for Just Cause and also the company changing into the Composite Boat unit by adding the LCUs. Even though he officially worked in the Mess Hall he also sailed aboard the LCUs whenever they got underway as a cook. He made the Move to the Pacific Side and was assigned to the Mess Hall on Clayton. As the unit was downsized he was assigned to the 245th Support Battalion, but I think I remember him still sailing on the LCUs when they got underway. I don't know when he left Panama nor where he went to. I have no further information. Information as of 12 June 2000.

Todd Lowman, 1993 - mid 1990s
Todd Lowman joined the 1097th in late 1993. He was previously assigned to one of the Hovercraft Companies at Story. He was assigned as a Seaman in the Medium Boat Platoon. He sailed on the LCUs several times but most of his boat time was on the LCMs. I think he made the move to the Pacific Side but I can't remember when he left Panama, but I think he got out of the Army. I have no further information. Information as of 12 June 2000.

Lucic (first name unknown, male), early - mid 1990s
ILucic joined the 1097th in the early 90s. He was assigned as the Chief Engineer aboard the LCU 1668. I can't remember when he left Panama, but I think it was after the move. believe he was the CW2 Chief on the 68. He slipped and fell of the O1 deck and landed on the H bit back by the anchor on one of the ammo retrogrades we did to Cherry Point, NC in 93-94. John Boy should have more info on this. Updated 20 Oct 2006.

Steve Ludley, mid - late 1980s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 June 2000.

Timmy Luster, early 1990s
Timmy Luster is an Honorary River Raider after being attached to the Company for 6 months TDY. Timmy returned to the States in the early 90s. He has been assigned all over Eustis. He is presently the 4th Shift NCOIC at the Harbormaster Tower. I have no further information. Information as of 12 June 2000.

Tim Lynes, mid 1970s
I have no further information. Information as of 12 June 2000.





HOT HOT HOT 17 April 2009, I received an e-mail from Thom Kirkpatrick last week about there being a 1097th Reunion this coming October. After a few e-mails with John Crenshaw I have the basic details, 9-12 October 2009, Columbus Day Weekend in the Ft Eustis/Newport News area. I am planning on attending and would like to make a humble request, if anyone has any scanned copies of their pics from any era of the 1097th and would like to share them please give them to me and I will add them on the page. The longer I keep this page going them more I want it to by OUR page and not MY page. I will update with more details as I get them.

Something else that's been on my mind for a few years, contact information on the Raiders of the Past list. For a long time I have wanted to include contact information for those that wanted their contact information listed. Once down side to this is people who you don't want to have your contact information have a way to get it and pester you. The decision is 100% yours. If you want your e-mail or snail mail address listed under your profile in theRaiders of the Past let me know stating this and I will post as you desire. I would also like an updated profile if you so desire so I can also update this at the same time. It you want this please E-mail me.



If your name should be on this list, or know of others that should be on this list send me an E-mail!Please include the name, nickname and the approximate or exact dates. Also if I forgot your name on this list don’t take any offense by this, almost all of the names of the 1990s were taken from memory. Please remember that after over six years and about 500 different faces it is sometimes difficult to remember.


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