Yes Joseph I would be interested to hear the story how your father designed the Black Cat patch.
Ray Jennings
My name is Joseph Dioguardi I was just wanting to reach out to the people who where in the 282nd (Black Cats) my father Robert L. Dioguardi is responsible for crea the emblem that’s on the radio compartment if you care to know how it came about I’ll explain how, you can reach out to me via my email joe_dio@yahoo.com
I received notice this morning that our great Brother Roland Hall (67-68 Maint) passed away February 7, 2026. Our prayers are with all his family. Rest in Peace Brother
I have just seen the obituary for Michael Barnett (69 Pilot). He passed away January 17, 2024. Our deepest condolences to all his family. Rest in Peace Brother.
I receive notice that our Brother Troy Long (68-69 Crew Chief) passed away June 20, 2025. Please keep his family in your prayers. Rest in Peace Brother
I have just been informed our Brother Richard Crabtree (69 Crew Chief) passed away May 11, 2025. Please continue to keep his family in your prayers. May he rest in peace.
Today is National Vietnam Veterans Day. A day to remember and honor all the men and women who served in Vietnam. I personally want to thank you for your service, honor you, and welcome home all my Brothers of the 282nd Assault Helicopter Company. I am proud to have served with many of you. We left Vietnam but Vietnam has never left us. NEVER FORGET
It is with great sadness I report the passing of our Brother John Hosey (66-67 Platoon Leader, Pilot BC 21, Colonel) on January 31, 2026. Please keep his family in your prayers. Rest in Peace Brother.
Our saddened hearts go out to the family of our Brother David "Pineapple" Mawae Crew Chief 665-68 who passed away December 24, 2025. Visitation and Memorial Services will be at 11:00am at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville, LA with burial at Central Veterans Cemetery. Rest in Peace Brother.
