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Vietnam SF Veteran Donates Memories to USASOC

By SSG Marcus Butler 23 December, 2011 07:34:00
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FORT BRAGG, NC – At the age of 17 a young man from Klamath Falls, Ore., began a journey that would span five decades. Now a gray-haired Vietnam veteran, Boyd Sprague is giving back to United States Army Special Operations Command a treasure trove of his own memories captured on film.

Retired Staff Sgt. Boyd Sprague enlisted in the U.S. Army on Feb. 8, 1954 unsure what path to take in life except that he knew he wanted to jump out of airplanes. Sprague's love for being a Paratrooper landed him at Bravo Company, 505th Airborne Infantry, which would eventually afford him the opportunity to try his hand at photography. His newfound love for photography and Airborne jump wings would be the cornerstone of his legacy in USASOC.

“While I was watering the 505th Parade Field, I saw a Soldier running across with a speed graphic camera in his hand,” said Sprague. I immediately dropped the hose and caught up with him and asked, how do I get your job.” said Sprague.

After his encounter with the photographer and a long drawn out volunteer process to change military occupational specialties, he eventually made his way to Fort Mammoth, N.J., for his formal photography training. From there Sprague volunteered for Special Forces and upon graduation he was assigned to 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne).   

While with 5th SFG (A), Sprague conducted various missions that included providing aerial photographic support and surveillance for the special force operators on the ground.

During his time with 5th SFG (A), Sprague also had the opportunity to photograph other significant events such as Bob Hope visiting troops in Vietnam.

“I had the opportunity to see and do some amazing things during my time in the Army,” said Sprague. “I love my photography and I love (my) Army.

After his retirement, Sprague again tried to reenlist for Operation Desert Shield but at the time, his age prevented it.

“I feel as though I can still contribute to our Nation,” said Sprague. “That is one of the main reasons that I wanted to give the photos from Vietnam back to the Soldiers that were fighting for it.”