In 2010 I attended my first reunion in Wash. D.C. This included buddies from Charlie Co. 6th/31st, 9th Inf. Div., 3rd platoon. I hadn't seen them since 1970 and was unsure of what to expect. I soon realized that years of separation seemed nonexistent. Sure, we all had changed in appearance, but the bonds that were created years before seemed to have strengthened. 

These bonds developed over a 3 month stretch from May to Aug. 1970. (9th. Div. pulled out that summer). We scattered to other units. Our time in D.C. was spent renewing our friendship. It seemed as though a group therapy reset button had been pushed. We committed to an annual R&R and meet somewhere each year. A trip to the wall was mandatory as we wanted to recognize those we left behind and to try healing the emotional wounds that we shared. 

It was hot and uncomfortably muggy so after 3 hrs. my buddy Rich (since deceased) and I began recon for air conditioning and refreshments. We had no clue where we were or where to go. Relying on instinct alone we found Froggy Bottom. Success!

Passing up a couple of watering holes we landed at Froggy Bottom Pub. Climbed a flight of stairs and entered a bar. Things were about to get eerily interesting. 

The Asian lady behind the bar greeted us and took our order. We were wearing t-shirts with the 9th Div. logo.

She commented on this, we told of our reunion and she asked where we were stationed in Vietnam. Bien Luc, why?

She went on to tell us where she was from and that her husband had served with the So. Vietnamese army (ARVN). Then she bought us a beer and gave us her business card. Froggy Bottom Pub, owned by Hoang & Hien Bui, 2142 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. D.C.

After a laugh and tear filled conversation, and a few more beers, we found that Hoang had provided artillary cover for our unit. We immediately nicknamed him Short Round.

While having lunch we could not stop commenting on what had just taken place. Fate. The Pub opens it's doors each Thanksgiving to all Vets, providing food and refreshments. It began with a handful of locals and now overflows with thankful Vets. Going to Tennessee in Sept. Who knows what might surprise me at this one.

These reunions have been the best therapy ever.