Farewell Delta13Charlie: We salute You
It is with very heavy heart that we share the sad news of the passing of Michael Coyne. Michael has been a huge supporter of our work along with his son Michel Coyne junior: our videographer. Our sincere condolences to his family and comrades.
Born in Cornamona, Galway, in 1945, the family later moved to Jenkinstown in County Meath. He emigrated to Chicago. When war broke out in south east Asia it was not long before the war caught up with him and he was drafted. Michael initially was sent to the U.S. Army film school, a talent and passion which he has passed on to his son. Call sign Delta13Charlie, Michael served with the 11’Blackhorse’ Armored Cavalry Regiment during the Vietnam War. Along with malaria, with him throughout his time in Vietnam, was his film camera. During his service Michael earned the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.
Michael Coyne is one of the unknown number of Irish who served and fought in Vietnam. He was a long-term member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.
In 2017 he told us his story. You can read his account of his Vietnam War here.