HM Gary R.
Wilson
DOB 25 December 1943
Chicago Heights, IL
Loss Date 14 September 1967
Wall 26E Panel 73
Updated 27 July 21
On 14 September 1967 Doc Wilson was a member of an Alpha Company Patrol
that was operating west of Phu Bai. He was declared
missing in action after the team came into contact with enemy forces. Wilson's
remains were recovered and returned during 1970.
The following information was found in the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion
Command Chronology for the month of Septmeber 1967.
This was recorded in the summary page:
" A patrol operating in the vicinity of (YC8997) conducted 48 1/2
hours of reconnaissance and surveillance which resulted in 1 contact with 2-6
VC. Contact resulted in 1 USMC KIA, 3 USMC WIA and 1 USN WIA. As the USN WIA
was being hoisted into the med-evac helicopter a red smoke grenade inadvertantly went off inside the helo.
In the insuing confusion the helo
lurched forward and the WIA fell and was lost in the jungle (1 USN MIA )."
An inquiry was made with Department of Defense and the following
information was learned. On 13 January 1970 a patrol from the 54th ARVN
Regiment came upon some remains at YC891977 (about 30 kilometers southeast of
FSB Rifle) and sent them through the 85th Evacuation to the mortuary. These
remains were later identified as Gary R. Wilson through a dental comparison.
This is the same patrol where Pfc. Donald B. Dray was Killed In Action. At this time the names of the other team members
are unknown. No infomation is known on the helicopter
crew.