Pelican Parts Forums - 0400 hrs today 92-year-old Retired Command Sergeant Major Basil Plumley passed

COLUMBUS, Ga. --

The military community is mourning the loss of an iconic war veteran.

92-year-old Retired Command Sergeant Major Basil Plumley lost his fight with cancer Wednesday morning at Columbus Hospice.

Originally from West Virgina, Basil Plumley enlisted in the army in 1942 as a Private. He retired in 1974 as a Command Sergeant Major.

During his 32 years of service, Plumley was known as a true, soldiers, soldier.

CSM Plumley served in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, he served as the Sergeant Major of the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment.

The actions of that unit in the La Drang Valley in 1965 are described in the book “We were Soldiers Once, and Young;” which was later made into a major motion picture.

Also during his career, CSM Plumley spent time stationed here at Fort Benning and now his legacy lives on within the walls of the National Infantry Museum.

NIM Director, Frank Hanner, said Plumley was a soldier known for his hard work, dedication and never leaving a soldier behind.

"It was his leadership on the battle field I’m sure that helped young soldiers stand their ground and fight because they trusted in him to lead them," said Hanner.

Fort Benning is where fellow veteran, Retired Colonel Ralph Puckett, met the Command Sergeant Major.

"I was impressed with his soldierly qualities. Every time I saw him, I thought about him, I thought of the world soldier. And he was just the epitome of what I thought a soldier or non commissioned officer should be," said Colonel Puckett.

The two remained friends after teaching a leadership course to young soldiers more than two decades ago.

"He was a unique individual. He was somebody who really knows his stuff. He didn't have to brag, he just exudes confidence and the know how that only he had," said Colonel Puckett.

Colonel Puckett reflected on the last time he visited CSM Plumley.

"I doubt seriously that he recognized me, but it doesn't matter. I was somebody there that was holding his hand and I said, sergeant major, we love you. God bless."

After retiring from the Army, CSM Plumley spent 15 years working at Martin Army Hospital.

Funeral arrangements have not been finalized.