Don Taylor, a Green Beret from Gooding, Idaho, led a life deeply intertwined with the valor of the Vietnam War and the heart of his small town. This is the story of his bravery, his commitment to his community, and the enduring mystery surrounding a reconnaissance mission in the A Shau Valley.
From Gooding to Vietnam: The Making of a Green Beret
Born and raised in Gooding, Idaho, Don Taylor’s path led him to the sweltering jungles of Vietnam, where he served as a Green Beret, one of the U.S. Army’s most elite soldiers. Trained for high-risk missions behind enemy lines, Taylor’s courage and tactical prowess earned him some of the military’s highest honors, including the Silver Star and Bronze Star.
The A Shau Valley: A Mission Shrouded in Mystery
Taylor’s service with MACV-SOG, a secretive unit specializing in unconventional warfare, placed him in the heart of the Vietnam War’s most dangerous operations. One mission, in particular, continues to haunt those who served alongside him: the disappearance of ST Idaho in the treacherous A Shau Valley.
On May 20, 1968, ST Idaho, a reconnaissance team led by Glen Oliver Lane, vanished into the dense jungle of the A Shau Valley. Their objective: to gather intelligence on enemy activity and supply routes, potentially linked to the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. The team, which included Robert Duval Owen and four South Vietnamese soldiers, reported “Team OK” after insertion, but all communication ceased shortly after. As scheduled radio checks with Forward Air Controllers (Coveys) went unanswered, concern grew into alarm.
The A Shau Valley, a known enemy stronghold, held strategic importance during the war. Was ST Idaho’s mission critical to understanding enemy movements or disrupting their operations?
The Unseen Scars of War: A Community Rebuilt
Upon returning to Gooding, Taylor, much like fellow Green Beret Richard Flaherty, dedicated himself to serving his community. He became a volunteer firefighter, embodying the selflessness and bravery that defined his military service. His commitment to his fellow veterans was unwavering, tirelessly advocating for their recognition and support.
Taylor’s impact on Gooding extended beyond his military service. As a successful businessman and philanthropist, he owned several establishments in town and generously supported local organizations, leaving an undeniable mark on the community he called home.
A Legacy of Courage and Community
Though Don Taylor passed away in 2017, his legacy of courage, resilience, and community continues to inspire. The mystery surrounding ST Idaho’s disappearance serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the shadows, their stories often untold.
Unanswered Questions: The Search for Answers
Despite the passage of time, questions surrounding the fate of ST Idaho linger. Were they overrun by enemy forces? Did they encounter unforeseen dangers in the unforgiving terrain? Decades later, their families and those who served alongside them still seek answers, hoping for closure to a chapter forever etched in the annals of the Vietnam War.
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