3rd Battalion 26th Marines (Vietnam)

Bob Arrotta

During the night of 4 November 2009, Bob died in his sleep.  A victim of cancer, he was born in Bethesda, Maryland and joined the Marine Corps in 1966.  On Hill 881S, as a member of 3/26 Comm Platoon's Tactical Air Control Party, he was known as the "World's Mightiest Corporal" due to his prowess in running airstrikes.  Bob lived in San Diego after leaving the Marines.  He will be missed by all who knew him. Funeral services will be at Arlington National Cemetery at 1100 on 15 December 2009.

Charles Reed

On 17 October 2009, retired Gunnery Sergeant Charles Reed passed away after a long, brave fight with cancer.  "Gums" was a member of 3/26 starting with India Company on Hill 881S in early 1968 and remaining until the battalion was deactivated in 1970. Gunny Reed was probably the Marine with the most time in 3/26.  He is survived by his wife Roisin and two sons Jim and Andrew. Gums will be missed by all who knew him.