Colonel Kenneth D. Mertel
June 8, 1924 to October 11, 2006
A Soldier’s Soldier
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Colonel Kenneth D. Mertel |
“Operation Crazy Horse” is dedicated to the memory of Colonel Kenneth D. Mertel (US Army retired) who passed away in the fall of 2006 at the age of 82. Colonel Mertel commanded the 1st Battalion (Airborne) 8th Cavalry from the first day of its inception on July 1, 1965 to early spring of 1966. His battalion distinguished itself by its heroism, combat aggressiveness and sacrifice during Crazy Horse and each of the campaigns in which it participated. The “Jumping Mustangs” were indeed fortunate to be led by this distinguished soldier.
After the war, Colonel Mertel continued to lead his intrepid band. He made special efforts to keep in touch with many of the “Jumping Mustangs” and for many years organized and led a determined effort to get together to reminisce and to honor the members of the battalion who are still with us, who fell in Vietnam or in the intervening years. This effort has been deeply appreciated by all who knew this great warrior.
Colonel Mertel was born in Bennett, Colorado in 1924. Known as the “Gray Beret” by his soldiers, he enlisted in the US Army in 1942 during World War II. He graduated from infantry officer candidate school in 1945 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant. He joined the regular army in 1946 and retired in 1975 serving a total of 33 years. Colonel Mertel served two combat tours during the Korean War and in many other foreign assignments. In 1963 he commanded a combat aviation battalion supporting the South Vietnamese Army. Upon his return to the United States, he was assigned to the 11th Air Assault Division (Test). This unit, commanded by Major General Harry W.O. Kinnard was formed to test the army’s newest doctrine of airmobile warfare. The 11th Air Assault Division was later designated as the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Colonel Mertel led the “Jumping Mustang” battalion during its deployment and initial year of combat in Vietnam. He is the author of “Year of the Horse: Vietnam” describing his experiences with the “Jumping Mustangs”.
In 1970, Colonel Mertel returned to the 1st Cavalry Division in Vietnam as commander of the 11th Combat Aviation Group. During the 1970 incursion into Cambodia, he led the Cav’s 3rd Infantry Brigade.
Along with many other awards and decorations, Colonel Mertel holds the Silver Star Medal and the Legion of Merit. He was qualified as an army aviator, paratrooper and ranger. Additionally, he was twice awarded the combat infantryman’s badge.
Colonel Mertel was a distinguished soldier, author and a gentleman of the highest standing. He will always be remembered as a great leader who led the “Jumping Mustangs “with heroism and skill. A true Soldier’s Soldier.