13 May 2005 Cpl David Ranson is the Marine closest to the camera on the left edge of the photo. Cpl David William Ranson and I were good friends in Vietnam. We were Marines in Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st MarDiv. In June 1968, I met Cpl Ranson when I joined up with Fox Company in the Philippines. We completed several weeks of Jungle Warfare training and then we boarded the USS Ogden and headed for SE Asia via the South China Sea. The 2/7 Battalion Float Phase had just begun and we had no idea that we were traveling straight into hell. Cpl Ranson was born in Rock Island, Illinois, on February 12, 1948, and was 21 years, 1 month and 23 days old when he was killed in action. Cpl Ranson had been in Vietnam for 11 months. David was also engaged to be married. Cpl Ranson, who was a rifleman, showed extraordinary heroism on April 7, 1969, during Operation Oklahoma Hills. Cpl Ranson was part of a support squad for a sniper and his spotter. Disregarding his own safety, he fearlessly exposed himself to the intense hostile fire where he succumbed to his shrapnel wounds. His bold initiative and heroic efforts inspired all who observed him and contributed immeasurably to the accomplishment of Fox Company's mission. By his courage, sincere concern for the welfare of his fellow Marines and unwavering devotion to duty, Cpl David Ranson upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps. He gallantly gave his life for his country. In his memory, Hill 22 was renamed "Camp Ranson" by the Marines of Fox Co, 2/7. David, you will never be forgotten. Even as the years pass, Vietnam keeps coming back to us. You gave the supreme sacrifice for your country. You served the Corps honorably and died gallantly in battle. Cpl Ranson, always a Marine, forever a Hero. Miss you my dear friend. God Bless and Semper Fi

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