about uncle

My favorite uncle is my "Uncle Henry" -- or as I like to say "Uncle". My uncle is my father's only brother -- he is my closest living male ancestor as I have no brothers. So for me that is very special. He respects me and genuinely likes me and my companionship, this is a rarity among those who know him.

Growing up my uncle accomplished many things. Among them the following: * He donated the pelvis of a Giant Ground Sloth to the LA Natural History Museum.

  • Donated hundreds (or thousands) of prehistoric fish fossils to the LA Natural History Museum [museum archive index shows the donation in 1973] -- for which he received special commedation for his pieces.

  • Attained a degree in Librel Arts from CSULB with a minor in Parks and Recreation.

  • Built his own short-wave radio from simple electronic parts -- no "build it yourself kit" involved.

  • Is an avid weight lifter and health nut -- in his prime idolized Mr. Universe and developed 16" arms.

  • Excelled at gymnastics and could perform backflips, kip ups and handstands.

  • Served his country in Vietnam in 1969 - 1970.

Here is one of a few images I have of my uncle in Vietnam in 1969. My uncle Henry a 2nd lieutenant at the far left of this photograph. He was drafted into Vietnam and upon his discharge left either as a 1st Lieutenant or Captain in the US Army. This image is from the 1996 Santa Maria Times Veterans Day 30th Anniversy of the Vietnam War -- by war photographer Roger Welt. The main image of the paper shows 6 officers which a few brief minutes later broaded the APC in the background of the image to launch an assault on Nui Ba Den; which is otherwise known as Black Virgin Mountain. war story 1

Officers 1969 Black Virgin Mountain attack
view large image

My uncle does not speak much of his time in Vietnam. My uncle buried his medals and ribbons after he returned from the war -- they had no worth to him. He says that they give out medals and citations to the wrong individuals and for the wrong reasons. All gave some. Some gave all. His rationale being that all service men and woman deserve our highest respect and admiration for their service. Such rare words like this from my uncle show a glimmer of the goodness within. He cherishes and respects life very much.

My uncle, Henry "Hank" Manuel Gurba, was in the HHSB 3rd Battalion 82nd Artillery Division forward artillery intel assistance. He was awarded 2 Bronze stars: once with a V-Device for Valor, and another for Meritours Service, he was also an expert marksman.

If you recongize my uncle from your service time in Vietnam (or anyone in the picture) please email with any information you can offer to Henry Gurba. I help my uncle by checking this email account on his behalf.

My uncle speaks very highly of the following individuals, and we are trying to contact them:
    Captain Balin — immediate commander in country
    Lt. Chavez — completed artillery training at Fort Sill and Martial Space Center

Thank You.

Shortly after the war my uncle completed his degree in school. But within months after that he was completely schizophrenic. This occurred 6 years before my birth -- so I never knew the man my family saw so much potential in. I only know the homeless Vietnam vet -- but I still care for him like a brother. My uncle is fasincated with gold and emeralds. Much of his day is spent finding treasure and gold and unraveling the mysteries of the universe. It is my belief that he has disorganized or hebephrenic schizophrenia. My uncle has never lashed out or tried to hurt those that love him. It's just very sad to see that man he is now -- knowing the potential and greatness that he once possessed.

My uncle has never been examined to get his full military benefits. Since the war he has not held a job, owned a home, started a family. He has a place to stay and manages to survive. My uncle has a degree, fought for his country -- still fights for his country. As of yet he has not given up, and we will not give up on him.

I love my uncle very much.