The Vietnam War: A Personal Journey

It is often stated, but rarely detailed, what it felt like to be a child during the heights of the Vietnam War. In the summer of 1967, my four-year-old eyes first laid upon the towering, weapon-carrying American soldiers during my arrival in Saigon. Little did I know that this initial encounter would be just the beginning of a lifetime surrounded by the remnants of war. Fast forward to adulthood, my professional journey brought me into the heart of veteran care, a career that has spanned over 56 years and countless stories of tribulation and survival.

Survival in the Jungle

The summer of 1967 was just a memory, but the experiences that define it are forever etched in my mind. Imagine enduring the constant struggle for survival in a triple canopy jungle where every living thing poses a threat. For a full year, the call to stay alive was the only thought in my mind. Beds shared with the earth, food scarce, and the oppressive heat combined to make life a nightmare. The apocalyptic conditions were beyond what one could imagine, and every waking moment was filled with fear and desperation. The cries for help and reassurance to God were a constant, twenty-four/seven experience.

From Fear to Impact

Looking back, it is clear that my fear in 1967 was justified. The United States has been involved in a state of perpetual conflict almost from the moment I set foot in Vietnam, and that experience has profoundly shaped my life. My journey as a war correspondent/TV news cameraman came later, but my military upbringing and witnessing the combat firsthand have left an indelible mark on my personal and professional life. The stories of veterans from every war, from World War I to the most recent conflicts, fill the memories of my career and the wounds of these brave souls are personal to me.

The Complexity of War

It is often difficult for those who have never experienced combat to understand the gravity of these experiences. Dan Eismann echoes this sentiment with his own experiences, suggesting that many combat veterans struggle to share their stories, especially with those who have not faced similar dangers. As a war correspondent, I too have faced moments of despair and pain, and while I can share the good times, the memories of the worst combat, such as that in Southern Thailand in 1981, remain deeply personal and not easily spoken about.

Reflections and Legacy

The Vietnam War and its aftermath have left an indelible mark on not just the individuals who fought in it, but on the entire nation. The personal and professional journey that I have had as a result of my experiences in Vietnam and beyond has been one of deep reflection and a commitment to honor those who have served. My work in the veteran care system has provided me with a unique perspective, allowing me to connect with and support those who have faced the darkest of human experiences. The legacy of the Vietnam War continues to resonate, not only in the stories we tell but in the lives we touch.

While the stories of the war can be harrowing, they also serve as a reminder of the resilience and bravery of the human spirit. From Saigon as a child to the battlefields in South Thailand, the echoes of the Vietnam War have shaped my life in profound ways. It is our duty to remember, to understand, and to honor those who have served and continue to serve.