biography

When I arrived in Vietnam on 5 September 1972 for my third tour I was assigned to the 560th MP Company in Corps Tactical Zone I, DaNang.

That immediately changed because on the 20th of November the 560th stood down and was redesignated the 615th MP Company, and we soon started getting MP's from the 615th on Long Binh Post, Corps Tactical Zone III, who were transferred up to DaNang.

The 178th MP Detachment was our Provost Marshal Office and was commanded by a LTC Fred Villela. They were located across the river near the 95th Medical Evacuation Hospital (China Beach). The 615th compound was located on the DaNang Air Force Base.

The 615th performed traditional MP duties and activities working directly under the 178th.

In early March of 1973 we were told the 615th would be standing down. Myself and SSG Rivera remained behind and I assumed the title of Security NCOIC of the Four Power Joint Military Commission, and SSG Rivera was my assistant.

On 8 April 1973, the Four Power military Commission packed up, boarded a C-130 and headed for Ton Son Nhut airbase. I was the very last MP to leave Military Region I after being appointed Customs NCO for one day to inspect all departing military personnel. My next duty station was Fort Ritchie, Maryland.

For more information on SGM Shott's military career and his life since the Vietnam War visit his website at SergeantMajor.net can be accessed via the link above right.