After signing a 20-year non-disclosure agreement these men of the Top Secret U.S Army Special Forces (Green Berets), Military Assistance Command Vietnam - Studies & Observations Group (MACV SOG) would not discuss their actions to anyone including their own families. It would not be until the early 1990's that they could finally discuss their actions in what today is called the "secret war". With support and approval from these covert warriors of SOG "Pucker Factor Stories of MACV SOG" was created. This has given me the ability, and now a platform to share never heard publicly, stories and photographs, intertwined with historical events of SOG. The recollections and words are their own, some are humorous, some are sad, most describe events that the average person can not conceive. We thank them for their service to the United States of America.
In this Issue -

• MACV SOGS TERMINOLOGIES Have you ever read in MACV SOG books terminologies like DODGE MARK, ELDEST SON or IGLOO WHITE and wonder what they meant meant? This first feature explains SOG'S terminologies. MACSOG'S SECURITY MEASURES When engaged in a covert operation, it is essential to prioritize tight security. Explore the these official SOG documents for more insights. THE RAY HARRIS CCC DOCUMENTS The author of Pucker Factor was drawn to an online auction. Having won the auction he was surprised to see there were documents attributed to CCC Vet and author Ray Harris. A phone call was made to Harris and all was revealed.You will now have the chance to view these rare documents written by Norman A Doney Recon Co. MSG SHERMAN BATMAN At age 15 with WW2 in its final days Batman felt he had a duty to join the U.S Army, that was until his mother had other plans! When he did join the military he would stay in until 1972 retiring as Master Sergeant. This tribute covers his entire life including his time with SOG and the Bright light mission to retrieve fellow SOG soldier John Kenenburg. PROJECT GAMMA B-57 Named Project GAMMA on April 1, 1968, aligning with other special forces units like Project DELTA it was tasked with special reconnaissance in the Cambodian A.O. When a double agent is found to be lurking in its ranks, Command in Gamma request advice and operational orders from the CIA. Proceed with extreme prejudice was their answer. The repercussions of this event would rock the U.S military and the release secret operations of the Vietnam war to the world. THE UNFINISHED WAR SOG vet Jerry Foreman writes a moving poem dedicated to friend Jerry Schroeder who was K.I.A. USSF 1967. SP5 ALAN BRUCE CECIL A tribute to a SOG trooper that gave the ultimate sacrifice. Through military documents we read the events that unfolded on that tragic day. RALPH C. NELSON served as a gunner with the 20th SOS Green Hornets during the Vietnam War. He never spoke much about his service. What he left his family was a collection of photographs. They tell his story for him. BIRD DOWN IN CAMBODIA 20th SOS crew member Jim Burns tells his first hand experience of a "pucker factor" moment when one of the Green Hornet hueys in the flight has technical issues and needs to land ASAP. Problem is they are over enemy held territory in Laos. MAJOR GENERAL ELDON BARGEWELL served with SOG at Phu Bai and FOB4. We thank the Bargewell family for letting us share his photos from his time with SOG with the readers of Pucker Factor stories of MACV SOG. Lynne M. Black Jr. recounts his journey from his early days in Washington State to his three tours in Vietnam. Following his service with the 173rd in Vietnam during his initial tour, Black would return to Vietnam this time with SOG and with vengeance. Blacks brother had been severely injured by enemy troops in Vietnam. He would soon have an opportunity to fulfill his desire. THREE MORE FEATURES are in this publication!