The Scuttlebutt: Understanding Military Culture

​We talk with members of the famous United States Military Academy at West Point's Class of 1966, which holds a unique and tragic place in American history. Brian Ashbaugh, Walt Brinker, Rusty Correia, Al Lindseth, and Jerry Cecil all join us to share their memories of that remarkable era. Rick Atkinson's book, The Long Gray Line: The American Journey of West Point's Class of 1966, provides an in-depth and personal account of their collective journey, following a core group of graduates through their cadet years, their deployments to Vietnam, and their lives afterward. By the time they graduated, the Vietnam War was escalating, and many were sent into the conflict within months of receiving their commissions. In Vietnam, these young officers faced a brutal baptism by fire. Many became platoon leaders or company commanders, responsible for leading men in deadly jungle warfare against a highly motivated and elusive enemy. The casualties were staggering—of the 579 graduates, at least 30 were killed in action, and many more were wounded. We look forward to asking our guests how much their experiences align with the story Atkinson tells. We're grateful to UPMC for Life  for sponsoring this event!

Join the Veterans Breakfast Club for a special Memorial Day virtual event on Monday, May 26, 2025, at 7:00pm ET. This live, online conversation invites veterans, families, and friends to gather in an open, heartfelt space to honor and remember those who have fallen in service to our nation.  Memorial Day is a time of national reflection and remembrance—a day dedicated to honoring the men and women of the United States Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice. Originally known as Decoration Day, the holiday began in the aftermath of the Civil War and has grown into a solemn tradition observed across the country with parades, ceremonies, and personal acts of remembrance. At the Veterans Breakfast Club, where our mission is to create communities of listening around veterans and their stories, we see Memorial Day as a powerful opportunity to ensure that the stories of the fallen continue to be shared and remembered. Our Memorial Day livestream will not be a formal ceremony but a casual, interactive conversation. We invite veterans to speak from the heart about their own experiences, to share memories of comrades who never made it home, and to pay tribute to those who gave their lives in service. Family members, friends, and civilians are also encouraged to participate, whether by sharing a remembrance or simply listening in respect and reflection. We expect the conversation to be deeply moving, as participants express personal stories of sacrifice and loss. By hosting the event in the evening—after parades and public commemorations have ended—we aim to create a quiet, meaningful space for community connection and shared remembrance. Memorial Day is about more than ceremonies; it's about keeping alive the legacies of the fallen through the stories we tell. We're grateful to UPMC for Life  for sponsoring this event!

Vietnam Veterans and writers Bruce “Doc” Norton and Harry Kantrovich join us to talk about their new book and stage production, Voices From Vietnam: Interviews, Letters, Vignettes, and Reflections, 1964–1982. This unique conversation will explore their collaborative journey in bringing the Vietnam War's deeply personal stories to life—both on the page and on the stage. Voices From Vietnam is a powerful tribute to those who lived through the Vietnam War, drawing together 67 firsthand accounts from soldiers, Marines, sailors, airmen, nurses, prisoners of war, family members, a Vietnamese refugee, and others whose lives were forever changed by the conflict. Originally envisioned as a stage play, the project evolved into a published book and a moving stage production. Through interviews, letters, poems, and vignettes, Norton and Kantrovich offer a wide-ranging, authentic portrait of the war's human cost and enduring impact. Their stage adaptation premiered in November 2024 at the Journey Theater in Warrenton, Virginia, earning praise for its raw and emotional storytelling. Performed as a series of intimate monologues and readings, the play draws audiences into the lived experiences of those who served, struggled, and sacrificed during one of America's most divisive wars. In this livestream conversation, Doc Norton and Dr. Kantrovich will share behind-the-scenes insights about creating Voices From Vietnam, the process of gathering stories, and the challenges of translating wartime experiences into both written and dramatic form. They will also reflect on their own military careers—Norton's as a Marine Corps Force Recon veteran and historian, and Kantrovich's as a Navy Command Master Chief—and how their service shaped their commitment to honoring the voices of Vietnam. Whether you're a veteran, a student of military history, or simply interested in the personal narratives of war, this is an opportunity to hear directly from two remarkable storytellers and veterans dedicated to preserving memory and truth. We're grateful to UPMC for Life  for sponsoring this event!

We welcome two people who have devoted themselves to educating the nation about the long Korean War and those who served and sacrificed for South Korea's freedom. The first is Susan Kee whose “Honoring Korean War Veterans” project has documented the stories of over 500 Korean War veterans and advocated for the families of those still MIA since the war. Joining Susan is Army Korean War veteran Ron Twentey, who served in Korea in 1955-1957. Ron grew up in a small farm community near Frederick, Maryland, and worked on local farms from the age of ten, performing hard labor without modern mechanized equipment. Earning 25 cents an hour, he gained an appreciation for the value of work. A strong childhood memory from 1944 was collecting milkweed pods for the war effort, which were used as a substitute for kapok in life jackets. This initiative made him feel like he was contributing to the war. During high school, Twentey watched the Korean War unfold. He was awarded a scholarship to the University of Maryland for his track and field abilities but was uncertain about his future. Ultimately, he decided to enlist in the U.S. Army for three years, intending to return to school afterward. His military service began with basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, with the 101st Airborne Division. He then attended the Engineer School at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, specializing in military drafting. Upon completing his training, Twentey and his entire class of 22 men were assigned to Korea. Departing from Seattle, Washington, on a troop ship, he arrived in Inchon after a 20-day journey. From there, they took an old steam train north toward the DMZ. Unaware of their exact destination, they were dropped off and left alone until a convoy of trucks transported them to a replacement tent compound. That night, local Korean boys raided the camp, stealing Army blankets and supplies—a common occurrence due to poverty and shortages following the war. The next day, Twentey was assigned to Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, G-3 Combat Operations, south of Munsan-Ni. The division had recently returned from Japan to safeguard the DMZ following the Korean War armistice. The fragile peace was frequently challenged by North Korean infiltrators. Twentey served as an Infantry Operations Specialist and Platoon Sergeant, maintaining records of minefield locations above the Imjin River, overseeing maps in the bunker and mobile war rooms, and tracking U.S. and UN troop movements within the DMZ. His work was classified, reflecting the sensitive nature of operations at the time. Additionally, he was tasked with plotting potential nuclear targets throughout North Korea. Using the “Atomic Annie” cannon as a potential delivery method, his job required pinpointing key targets—a task so secretive that he was ordered to forget about it once completed. Twentey served in Korea for 16 months before returning to the U.S. and becoming an engineering instructor. After leaving the military, he worked as a draftsman, eventually transitioning into marketing and communications. His contributions highlight the intricate and often perilous roles played by soldiers in the Korean War and its aftermath, emphasizing the enduring challenges of peacekeeping in a volatile region.

World War II is the last war America fought that had clearly defined goals: defeating the Nazis and halting Japanese imperialism. Our efforts were supported by a  civilian and military leadership that understood what victory looked like and were aligned on how to achieve it. That unity was critical to ensuring the support of the citizenry. Since then, the U.S. has sent our military off to fight in multiple regional wars – from Korea to Vietnam to Afghanistan – that turned into quagmires, conflicts in which civilian leaders and military advisors often disagreed on goals, how to achieve them and what the end game looked like. Joining us to discuss what went wrong in these wars and how the Army is changing its approach to avoid repeating the same mistakes is U.S. Army Colonel Anastasia Breslow-Kynaston who is currently completing her master's in Strategic Studies at the Army War College. This degree has been redesigned to mark the Army's transition from the ‘down and in thinking' of organizational leadership, where unit optimization and readiness were the primary focus, to the ‘up and out thinking' that factors in the global ramifications of American military action and how it unfolds. She will explain how a new generation of military leaders are being taught to anticipate and navigate the inevitable tension between our national interests and their affect upon the global community by studying the missteps of past conflicts. This includes topics such as strategic empathy (Iraq – understanding our adversaries), theories of victory (North Vietnam – winning by simply continuing to exist), and the importance of civil-military relations (Korea – MacArthur getting relieved during the Korea war). She will also share how this new approach is meant to develop critical thinkers and strategic problem solvers that understand how the military fits with the non-military instruments of national power to advance U.S. interests and support the rules-based international order. Colonel Breslow-Kynaston brings significant experience to her work. She served two tours in Afghanistan. The first with the 1/229th Aviation Battalion Attack in 2002-2003, and the second in 2010 as Commander of the Division Signal Company for the 101st Airborne Division. In addition, she served for a year in Ramadi, Iraq with the 1st Engineer Battalion. During that time, as one of the original Lioness soldiers, she was attached to the 2/4 Marines during the 2004 Battle of Ramadi. Colonel Breslow-Kynaston, along with four of her fellow Team Lioness members, were featured in the documentary film Lioness which aired nationally on PBS. We're grateful to UPMC for Life  for sponsoring this event!

The Fall of Saigon marked the official end of the Vietnam War. On April 30, 1975, North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam, bringing about the unconditional surrender of the South Vietnamese government and reunifying Vietnam under communist rule. In early 1975, North Vietnam launched the Spring Offensive, a massive military campaign aimed at defeating South Vietnam. U.S. forces had largely withdrawn after the 1973 Paris Peace Accords, which were supposed to ensure peace and political resolution. However, fighting resumed almost immediately, and by March 1975, North Vietnamese forces began sweeping through the Central Highlands with little resistance. City after city fell—Ban Me Thuot, then Hue, then Da Nang. The South Vietnamese military, riddled with corruption, low morale, and logistical failures, crumbled quickly. By mid-April, the North Vietnamese Army (NVA) had surrounded Saigon. Panic gripped the city. Over two million residents—government officials, soldiers, and civilians—feared brutal retribution from communist forces. The U.S., which had drastically reduced its presence in Vietnam, prepared to evacuate remaining American personnel and as many South Vietnamese allies as possible. The evacuation was codenamed Operation Frequent Wind. It began in earnest on April 29, as NVA shelling closed Tan Son Nhut Airport. Helicopters became the only viable means of escape. U.S. Marine and Air America helicopters shuttled people from the U.S. Embassy and other buildings in Saigon to ships offshore in the South China Sea. Scenes of desperate Vietnamese civilians scaling embassy walls, clinging to departing helicopters, and crowding onto rooftops became iconic images of the war's chaotic end. During the final days, U.S. Ambassador Graham Martin remained in denial, delaying evacuation and worsening the chaos. Only about 7,000 Vietnamese were airlifted out in time. Tens of thousands more were left behind. On the morning of April 30, the last U.S. Marines guarding the embassy were airlifted out under fire. At around 11:30 AM, North Vietnamese tanks crashed through the gates of the Presidential Palace. President Duong Van Minh, who had been appointed only days earlier in a last-ditch effort to negotiate a peaceful handover, surrendered unconditionally. The war was over. Saigon was renamed Ho Chi Minh City, and the South Vietnamese government ceased to exist. Tens of thousands of former South Vietnamese officials, military officers, and intellectuals were sent to reeducation camps. A mass exodus of refugees began—many fled by boat, leading to the “boat people” crisis in the late 1970s and 1980s. The Fall of Saigon was not just a military collapse but a symbol of the United States' failure to achieve its objectives in Vietnam despite years of fighting, enormous casualties, and massive financial investment. It left a deep scar on American foreign policy and military planning and redefined how the U.S. approached future conflicts. We're grateful to UPMC for Life  for sponsoring this event!

Poet Jehanne Dubrow has written much about life in the military community. Her latest poetry collection Civilians delves into the profound transition from military to civilian life, reflecting her personal journey as a Navy spouse alongside her husband, LCDR Jeremy Schaub. This work serves as the concluding volume in her trilogy exploring the military spouse experience, following Stateside (2010) and Dots & Dashes (2017). We welcome Jehanne and Jeremy to talk about their life together with Daria Sommers.  In Civilians, Dubrow examines the complexities that arise when a service member retires after decades of military service. The collection addresses the challenges both partners face as they navigate the shift from structured military roles to the uncharted territory of civilian life. Dubrow's poems candidly explore questions such as: What becomes of a sailor removed from a world of uniforms and uniformity? How is his language changed? His geography? And what happens to a wife once physical and emotional distances are erased, and she is reunited with her husband, a man made strange and foreign by his contact with war? Drawing inspiration from classical literature, Dubrow intertwines themes from works like Ovid's Metamorphoses, Homer's Odyssey, Euripides's The Trojan Women, and Sophocles's Philoctetes. This intertextuality enriches her exploration of transformation, displacement, and the search for identity post-service. For instance, she reflects on Penelope's role in The Odyssey as a parallel to her own experience, contemplating the challenges of loyalty and autonomy during her husband's deployments. ​ The collection also addresses the emotional landscape of reintegration, highlighting the subtle yet profound shifts in marital dynamics. Dubrow's poetry captures the tension between longing for reunion and the reality of change, as both partners must reconcile their evolved identities within the marriage. Her work offers readers a candid look at the experience of watching a loved one adjust to home life after a career of military service, blending formal and free verse with materials ranging from the historical to the personal. ​ Through Civilians, Dubrow provides a nuanced perspective on the often-overlooked experiences of military spouses, shedding light on the intricate process of redefining relationships and selfhood beyond the military sphere. Her poetry not only personalizes the broader narrative of military families but also invites readers to empathize with the universal themes of change, resilience, and love amidst uncertainty.​ We're grateful to UPMC for Life for sponsoring this event!

​Vietnam Veteran and Catholic priest Fr. Philip Salois joins us with his biographers, Julien Ayotte and Paul F. Caranci, to talk about his experiences during the Vietnam War and his subsequent commitment to spiritual healing, a story told in In the Shadows of Vietnam: The Gallant Life of Fr. Philip Salois. Salois grew up in a devout Catholic family, which laid the foundation for his deep-rooted faith. In March 1969, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, leading to his deployment to Vietnam in September of the same year. Assigned to the 199th Light Infantry Brigade, Salois faced the harsh realities of jungle warfare, a stark contrast to his previous life in Rhode Island. On February 28, 1970, Salois's platoon was tasked with locating and neutralizing the 133rd North Vietnamese Army Battalion near the village of Suoi Kiet. The following day, they inadvertently walked into a horseshoe-shaped ambush.Six soldiers were trapped behind enemy lines, their survival hinging on immediate rescue. Demonstrating extraordinary courage, Salois and fellow soldier Herb Klug volunteered to rescue their comrades. Before venturing into the line of fire, Salois prayed, making a solemn promise to God: if he emerged unscathed, he would dedicate his life to divine service. Their brave actions led to the rescue of four soldiers; tragically, Klug was killed during the mission. For his valor, Salois was awarded the Silver Star. After returning from Vietnam, Salois grappled with the haunting memories of war. In 1974, while attending a Catholic seminary in California, he recalled the promise he had made during the ambush. This realization propelled him toward priesthood, leading to his ordination as Father Philip Salois in 1984. ​Advocate for Veterans Father Salois dedicated his priesthood to supporting veterans, particularly those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). His firsthand combat experience allowed him to connect deeply with their struggles. As the Chief of Chaplains in the Boston VA Healthcare System, he provided spiritual guidance and organized retreats and conferences nationwide, offering solace and understanding to countless veterans. ​ Father Salois's journey from a soldier in the jungles of Vietnam to a priest devoted to healing the invisible wounds of war exemplifies resilience and compassion. His life serves as a testament to the enduring impact of faith and the profound difference one individual can make in the lives of others.​ We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

We welcome back Major General William M. Matz Jr., a distinguished retired U.S. Army officer, whose new book, My Toughest Battle: A Soldier's Lifelong Struggle with Polio, chronicles his journey of overcoming polio and his distinguished military career. Commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1962, Matz embarked on a military career that spanned over three decades. As an infantryman, he served in Korea and Panama, and as a company commander with the 9th Infantry Division in Vietnam, where he was wounded during the 1968 Tet Offensive. His service extended to multiple tours with the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, and he held the position of executive secretary to Secretaries of Defense Caspar Weinberger and Frank Carlucci. Matz also served two years with Navy/Marine Corps amphibious forces in the Pacific during a second tour in Vietnam and deployed with the 7th Infantry Division to Panama during Operation JUST CAUSE in 1989. Upon retiring from the Army in 1995, Matz transitioned to the defense industry, holding positions such as Vice President of Army Programs at Raytheon Company and General Manager for Vinnell/Northrop Grumman's Saudi Arabian National Guard Modernization Program in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. In 2005, President George W. Bush appointed him to the Veterans' Disability Benefits Commission, where he served until 2008. He also served as President of the National Association for Uniformed Services, advocating for service members, veterans, and their families. In January 2018, President Donald Trump appointed Matz as the Secretary of the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC), a position he held until March 2021. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing America's overseas commemorative cemeteries and memorials, honoring the service of U.S. armed forces. Throughout his career, Matz received numerous military awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Service Cross, Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star for Valor, Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

​During the Vietnam War, American civilians played pivotal roles in supporting both military operations and humanitarian efforts, working through government agencies and nonprofit organizations. Thousands of these civilians were women, and we talk with several of them tonight! Ann Kelsey was a UCLA graduate when she volunteered for the Army Special Services to serve in Vietnam as a civilian librarian. ​In Vietnam, Kelsey managed the U.S. Army Headquarters Area Command Library in Saigon before overseeing four libraries across Cam Ranh Bay, the Sixth Convalescent Center, Dong Ba Thin, and Nha Trang. These libraries functioned much like small-town public libraries, providing soldiers with access to books, records, and movies. They served as crucial sanctuaries, offering soldiers a respite from the war and a connection to the familiar comforts of home. Kelsey's role extended beyond managing library resources; she assisted soldiers with correspondence courses, helping them pursue educational goals amidst the chaos of war. Her dedication to supporting the troops highlighted the importance of intellectual engagement and morale-boosting activities during the conflict. After her service in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970, Ann continued her career in library science, working in various libraries and specializing in automation planning and system procurement. She remained actively involved in veterans' organizations and efforts to document the oral histories of veterans, ensuring that the experiences of those who served are preserved for future generations. ​wliw.org+2oralhistory.rutgers.edu+2news.ucr.edu+2 Ann's experiences in Vietnam not only exemplify the critical role of civilian support during wartime but also underscore the profound impact such service can have on both the individuals who serve and those they support.​ René Johnson similarly felt a compelling need to understand the U.S. involvement in the war firsthand. In 1969, after graduating from Florida State University, she joined the American Red Cross's Supplemental Recreation Activities Overseas (SRAO) program, becoming one of the esteemed “Donut Dollies.” ​ René was initially stationed at Chu Lai with the Americal Division and later at Cu Chi with the 25th Infantry Division. Her primary role involved traveling to remote fire support bases via helicopter, where she and her colleagues organized morale-boosting activities for the troops. A typical day entailed boarding a helicopter around six in the morning, visiting one or two firebases, conducting programs for at least five hours, serving lunch, and then returning to base to prepare for the next day's activities. ​ The challenges were significant. René  recounted that visiting soldiers in hospitals, especially those with severe injuries, was particularly taxing. She grappled with finding the right words to comfort those who had sustained critical wounds, such as lost limbs or disfigured faces, and endeavored to reassure them about their futures. ​ Despite the hardships, René found her work deeply fulfilling. After completing her one-year tour as a Donut Dollie, she felt a profound connection to Vietnam and its people. This bond led her to return with the U.S. Army Special Services in the Service Club division, further supporting the troops and local communities. Betty Burris felt it wasn't fair that our men were subject to the draft and women weren't. Betty applied to the Air Force but was told she'd have to wait for induction, probably due to a quota that limited the number of women in the military. As a USO volunteer in Philadelphia, she learned of the American Red Cross (ARC) Service in Military Hospitals program. Betty served in the ARC as a Social Worker from 1970 to 1978 in the Portsmouth Naval Regional Medical Center (Virginia), Valley Forge Army Hospital (Pennsylvania), 95th Evacuation Hospital (Vietnam) , Saigon Army Hospital (Vietnam), Wiesbaden Air Force Hospital (Germany), and the Philadelphia Naval Regional Medical Center (Pennsylvania).       We'll also talk with other women who served in Vietnam with the US Agency for International Development , Non-governmental organizations, and the American Red Cross. ​ We're grateful to UPMC for Life  for sponsoring this event!

We invite veterans of Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance (Force Recon) to talk about their service in Vietnam. Bill Barber and Bruce “Doc” Norton both have stories about conducting deep reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and direct action missions behind enemy lines. Unlike conventional infantry units, Force Recon operated in small teams, often just six to eight men, inserted by helicopter, boat, or foot deep into enemy-controlled territory. Their primary mission was to locate and observe North Vietnamese Army (NVA) and Viet Cong movements, determine enemy strength, and call in airstrikes or artillery on enemy positions. They also conducted raids, prisoner snatches, ambushes, and battle damage assessments. The nature of their work meant they frequently engaged in brutal, close-quarters combat, often fighting their way out of overwhelming enemy forces. Force Recon's training and operational methods set them apart from standard Marine infantry. They were trained in airborne operations, scuba diving, long-range patrolling, and survival in enemy territory. Their missions required a high level of stealth, endurance, and mental toughness, as they could be alone in the jungle for days, surviving on limited rations while avoiding detection. In Vietnam's dense terrain, Force Recon teams had to move silently, leaving no trace, and blend into the jungle to observe enemy troop movements. They carried suppressed weapons, radios for calling in fire support, and often had to break contact with superior enemy forces using a combination of speed, deception, and well-planned extraction procedures. Bill Barber served with the First Force Reconnaissance Company, Third Reconnaissance Battalion in I Corps Vietnam in 1965-1966. He stayed in the Marine Corps after returning from Vietnam and went on to serve in Desert Shield/Desert Storm and Panama Invasion. Bruce “Doc” Norton, a Navy Corpsman who served with Marine Force Recon in Vietnam, later became an author and historian, documenting the experiences of these elite Marines. Norton's writings provide firsthand insight into the brutal and relentless nature of Force Recon missions. His accounts describe the grueling conditions of operating in triple-canopy jungle, where visibility was limited, and the ever-present danger of ambushes, booby traps, and enemy patrols made every step a potential death trap. He wrote about the intense firefights that would erupt when a recon team was compromised, often requiring rapid extraction by helicopter under heavy enemy fire. In these situations, the ability to call in airstrikes and artillery with precision was the difference between survival and annihilation. Norton's experiences also highlight the bond among Force Recon Marines and their dedication to each other. As a corpsman, he was responsible for treating wounded Marines under fire, sometimes having to perform life-saving procedures while rounds cracked through the jungle around them. His books detail moments of heroism, loss, and the sheer physical and mental toll that these missions took on the men who conducted them. Unlike the large-scale battles of conventional Marine units, Force Recon's war was often fought in the shadows, a relentless cycle of stealth, violence, and survival. Marine Force Recon's impact on the Vietnam War was significant. Their intelligence-gathering efforts helped shape Marine operations in I Corps, allowing commanders to anticipate enemy movements and strike before the NVA or Viet Cong could. Their direct action missions disrupted enemy logistics, eliminated key targets, and kept pressure on enemy forces in areas where large Marine units could not operate effectively. Despite their small numbers, Force Recon Marines were a force multiplier, striking fear into the enemy and providing invaluable battlefield intelligence. We're grateful to UPMC for Life  for sponsoring this event!

This compelling conversation revolves around the memories of Vietnam veterans regarding the 1969 draft lottery, a pivotal moment in American history. The lottery, televised nationally, replaced the previous system of deferments, particularly the college student deferment, which had shielded many young men, including some of the participants, from immediate conscription. The event was highly anticipated and anxiety-inducing, with participants glued to their radios or televisions to learn their fate. The veterans' experiences illustrate the emotional weight of this lottery, highlighting how it impacted their lives and future plans. The veterans describe the lottery's mechanics: two drums containing birthdates and numbers, respectively, were used to randomly assign draft numbers. Lower numbers meant a higher likelihood of being drafted into the Vietnam War. Several veterans vividly recall the palpable tension and the stark contrast in reactions between those receiving low and high numbers. One veteran, Chad, recounts how his low number didn't immediately alter his plans but forced him to seriously consider his future and ultimately led him to pursue a commission in the Navy. This illustrates how the Vietnam lottery dramatically altered the trajectory of young men's lives. Many of them, like the veterans in this discussion, found themselves faced with a difficult decision, and the shadow of Vietnam hung heavy over their futures. Even those who had already enlisted found the lottery to have a significant impact, some using it to justify self-initiated eliminations from training programs. The discussion underscores the stark differences between volunteering for service and being drafted. Those who volunteered often had more choice regarding their assignment, unlike draftees who were frequently assigned to infantry units and faced a higher probability of combat in Vietnam. This crucial difference highlights the unequal distribution of risk and opportunity inherent in the system. Several veterans described their choice to enlist, highlighting the various reasons, including the opportunity for specialized training and the differing lengths of service compared to the draft. They discuss the logistical complications, particularly concerning the length of service and unexpected early releases, often impacting their financial planning and family life. The veterans also touch upon the significant number of Americans who fled to Canada to avoid the draft, highlighting the widespread anti-war sentiment and the lengths many went to avoid deployment to Vietnam. While precise numbers remain elusive, estimates range from 30,000 to 60,000. This conversation, however, does not omit the often untold story of Canadians who chose to join the US military to fight in Vietnam, showing that there were many people on both sides of this particular border issue. The participants speak to the emotional and practical challenges faced by those who made these difficult choices, illustrating the deep divisions within the country during this time. The stories shared by those who went to Vietnam remind us that many lives were affected by this war in profound ways. The Donut Dollies, while not explicitly mentioned in their anecdotes, represent a parallel story of civilian involvement in the Vietnam War, providing a stark contrast to the experiences of soldiers who served on the frontlines and felt the ever-present threat of the draft. The women of the Donut Dollies program provided invaluable support to the troops, and their stories are a reminder that civilians, too, were affected by the war effort. The discussion highlights the complexities of the Vietnam War era and the lasting impact of the draft lottery on the lives of countless American men. The veterans' candid reflections paint a picture of a generation grappling with profound choices amidst immense social and political upheaval. Their shared experiences underscore the psychological toll of the war, whether they served in Vietnam or dodged the draft, and the collective memory of this tumultuous period. It was a time where even a simple radio announcement about the draft lottery could dramatically change the course of someone's life and profoundly shape their memories of the Vietnam war, even years after the fact. The emotional weight of those experiences is conveyed with remarkable honesty, and the contrast between the casual television broadcast of the lottery and the very real human consequences is striking. Even the mention of the Donut Dollies, who provided crucial support in Vietnam, serves as a reminder of the broader context of civilian involvement and the widespread impact of the war.

We call upon all former Navy SeaBees to join us for a conversation marking the 83rd anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Navy's Construction Battalions on March 5, 1942. Formed in response to the urgent need for military construction forces capable of working under combat conditions, the Seabees have since established themselves as an indispensable part of U.S. military operations. Before World War II, the Navy relied on civilian contractors to build bases and infrastructure. However, after the attack on Pearl Harbor and the U.S. entry into the war, it became clear that construction crews needed to be able to defend themselves. The solution was the formation of Naval Construction Battalions—skilled builders trained as combatants. The name “Seabees” comes from the phonetic pronunciation of the initials “CB.” Seabees undergo rigorous training that combines construction expertise with military readiness. Initial training takes place at the Naval Construction Training Center in Gulfport, Mississippi, and Port Hueneme, California. Recruits learn essential skills like carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, heavy equipment operation, and demolition. In addition, they receive weapons training and instruction in defensive tactics, ensuring they can operate in hostile environments. Their motto, “We Build, We Fight,” reflects their dual purpose. During World War II, Seabees were deployed to the Pacific and European theaters, constructing airstrips, roads, bridges, and bases under combat conditions. They played a key role in the island-hopping campaigns of the Pacific, building the infrastructure necessary for advancing U.S. forces. In the Battle of Guadalcanal, Seabees constructed Henderson Field, a crucial airstrip that enabled the Allies to gain air superiority. At Iwo Jima, they worked under constant enemy fire, repairing airfields to keep American planes in the fight. By the war's end, Seabees had built over 400 advanced bases and countless facilities that proved essential to victory. When the Korean War erupted in 1950, the Seabees were once again called upon to provide critical construction support. They built airstrips, roads, and supply depots in challenging environments. One of their most notable achievements was the rapid construction of an airfield at Wonsan, which played a key role in supporting Marine and Army operations. Seabees also repaired and maintained infrastructure in war-torn areas, showcasing their ability to work in extreme conditions. In Vietnam, the Seabees operated extensively, constructing bases, airstrips, hospitals, and roads while also engaging in civic action projects. They built schools, hospitals, and bridges to help local communities, winning the support of Vietnamese civilians. One of their most daring projects was the construction of Khe Sanh Combat Base, a strategic stronghold. Seabees worked under enemy fire to complete the base, enabling U.S. forces to hold their ground during the pivotal siege of Khe Sanh in 1968. Since Vietnam, Seabees have continued to play a crucial role in military and humanitarian missions worldwide. They built infrastructure in the Persian Gulf during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, repaired damage from hurricanes and natural disasters, and provided disaster relief in Haiti and the Philippines. In Iraq and Afghanistan, Seabees built forward operating bases, roads, and medical facilities, ensuring U.S. and allied forces had the support they needed. We're grateful to UPMC for Life for sponsoring this event!

Vietnam Marine Corps veteran and author Ron Farina's new book, "Sacrifice: The Final Chapter," tells the stories of American Service Members who lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the enduring effects on their loved ones. We talk with Ron about the book and also with three family members profiled in it. We hear from Helen Keiser-Pederson whose son Captain Andrew Pedersen-Keel was killed in Afghanistan in 2013, Michael and Pat Parry whose son Brian Bill, Navy SEAL, was killed in Afghanistan in 2011, and Rob Kugler, a Marine himself, whose brother and idol, Mike, was killed in Iraq in 2007. Ron Farina's storytelling provides an emotional look into the specific acts of sacrifice, using each person's unique perspective to tell their stories. His Vietnam War experience enables him to capture the essence of military service and sacrifice, not only by these inspirational men and women warriors but also by the remarkable people left behind. The book is a testament to the resilience and strength of these families, highlighting how they navigate their grief and find ways to honor their loved ones' memories. Like the book, this program is a call to remember and honor the service and sacrifice of Service Members and their families long after the news stories fade. This conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war, urging readers to acknowledge and appreciate the sacrifices made by Service Members and their families. Through vivid and haunting narratives, Farina ensures that the stories of these heroes and their families are not forgotten, but rather honored and remembered. We're grateful to UPMC for Life for sponsoring this event!

We welcome Major General William M. Matz Jr., a distinguished retired U.S. Army officer, whose new book, My Toughest Battle: A Soldier's Lifelong Struggle with Polio, chronicles his journey of overcoming polio and his distinguished military career. In August 1944, at a young age, Matz contracted polio, resulting in paralysis of his right leg. Despite a grim prognosis, he demonstrated remarkable determination, undergoing extensive treatments and rehabilitation. His perseverance enabled him to overcome the physical challenges posed by the disease, setting the stage for his future endeavors. Matz pursued higher education at Gettysburg College, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He furthered his studies with a Master's degree in Political Science from the University of San Diego. His academic achievements were complemented by military training, including graduation from the Infantry Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, Airborne and Ranger Schools, the Command and General Staff College, and the Army War College. Additionally, he completed Harvard University's Senior Executives in Government/Management Course. Commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1962, Matz embarked on a military career that spanned over three decades. As an infantryman, he served in Korea and Panama, and as a company commander with the 9th Infantry Division in Vietnam, where he was wounded during the 1968 Tet Offensive. His service extended to multiple tours with the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, and he held the position of executive secretary to Secretaries of Defense Caspar Weinberger and Frank Carlucci. Matz also served two years with Navy/Marine Corps amphibious forces in the Pacific during a second tour in Vietnam and deployed with the 7th Infantry Division to Panama during Operation JUST CAUSE in 1989. Upon retiring from the Army in 1995, Matz transitioned to the defense industry, holding positions such as Vice President of Army Programs at Raytheon Company and General Manager for Vinnell/Northrop Grumman's Saudi Arabian National Guard Modernization Program in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. In 2005, President George W. Bush appointed him to the Veterans' Disability Benefits Commission, where he served until 2008. He also served as President of the National Association for Uniformed Services, advocating for service members, veterans, and their families. In January 2018, President Donald Trump appointed Matz as the Secretary of the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC), a position he held until March 2021. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing America's overseas commemorative cemeteries and memorials, honoring the service of U.S. armed forces. Throughout his career, Matz received numerous military awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Service Cross, Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star for Valor, Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

The Tactical Air Reconnaissance Pods System (TARPS) was a significant advancement in reconnaissance technology, particularly for the U.S. Navy during the late 20th century. TARPS, developed and deployed during the Gulf War (1990-1991), was a crucial system designed to enhance real-time intelligence-gathering capabilities for naval aviation, especially for carrier-based aircraft. The system was integrated into F-14 Tomcat fighter jets, allowing them to conduct high-resolution imagery and reconnaissance missions. TARPS utilized a sophisticated suite of sensors, including high-definition cameras and infrared systems, to capture imagery and data over enemy territory. This made it a valuable asset for targeting and surveillance, providing crucial intelligence during the conflict. One of the individuals behind the deployment of TARPS was Chris Bacon, a Navy veteran who played a role in the system's operational success. In August 1998, at 17 years old, Chris Bacon joined the Navy and started basic training in Orlando, Florida. After graduation, he went to Photo School in Pensacola, Florida. Upon graduating, he received orders to report to the VF-103, F-14 Fighter Squadron. VF-103 was part of Carrier Air Wing 17, based in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Shortly after, he deployed for workups in preparation for a six-month deployment. As scheduled, the airwing deployed on August 7 aboard the USS Saratoga and made a rapid crossing of the Mediterranean as Iraq invaded Kuwait. Ten days after deploying, the US began Operation Desert Shield. On the evening of January 28, the USS Saratoga received orders to initiate Desert Storm. After seven months and 21 days of deployment, with 11,700 arrested landings, 12,700 sorties flown, and 36,382 miles traveled, the USS Saratoga returned to its home port on March 28 with fewer sailors. The success of TARPS marked a significant milestone in the evolution of naval reconnaissance capabilities, enabling Navy pilots to gather detailed intelligence in real time while remaining out of the enemy's direct line of fire. During the Gulf War, the U.S. Navy utilized TARPS extensively for various missions, including target identification, battle damage assessment, and strategic reconnaissance over Iraq and Kuwait. The system's ability to gather high-quality imagery and intelligence played a vital role in guiding airstrikes and shaping military strategy. The data collected by TARPS provided commanders with timely and actionable intelligence, which greatly enhanced the effectiveness of allied forces during the conflict. TARPS became a benchmark for future reconnaissance technologies, demonstrating the importance of integrating advanced sensors into military aircraft to improve operational effectiveness. It also highlighted the growing importance of real-time intelligence in modern warfare, a trend that would continue to evolve in subsequent conflicts and military technologies. In addition to its use in the Gulf War, TARPS continued to serve as a vital tool in the U.S. Navy's arsenal for many years after the conflict. It contributed to numerous intelligence-gathering operations and was a crucial component of naval reconnaissance efforts in the post-Cold War era. TARPS' legacy paved the way for future advancements in aerial reconnaissance systems and underscored the importance of technological innovation in military operations. Overall, the development and deployment of TARPS represented a major leap forward in naval aviation technology. Thanks to the efforts of individuals like Chris Bacon and the broader U.S. Navy team, TARPS played a critical role in the Gulf War, providing essential reconnaissance data that helped shape the outcome of the conflict. Its impact on military reconnaissance continues to be felt today as modern systems build on the foundation laid by TARPS. January 1, 1994, marked Chris's final six-month deployment, which coincided perfectly with Operation Deny Flight and Operation Provide Promise, which enforced the UN's no-fly zone and provided air support over Bosnia-Herzegovina. Upon his return, the USS Saratoga docked in Jacksonville, Florida, and was decommissioned. Her last day at sea was his last day in the Navy. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

Vietnam veteran and author Marc Leepson joins us to talk about his new book, The Unlikely War Hero: A Vietnam War POW's Story of Courage and Resilience in the Hanoi Hilton. Doug Hegdahl, a young U.S. Navy sailor, became one of the most unlikely heroes during the Vietnam War. Born in South Dakota in 1946, Hegdahl enlisted in the Navy in 1966. His life took a dramatic turn on April 6, 1967, when he was swept overboard from the USS Canberra in the Gulf of Tonkin. Picked up by a North Vietnamese fishing boat, Hegdahl was handed over to enemy forces and imprisoned at the infamous Hoa Lo Prison, known as the “Hanoi Hilton.” Initially, Hegdahl's captors viewed him as a low-value prisoner due to his lack of rank or intelligence-related responsibilities. Exploiting this perception, Hegdahl adopted a persona of naivety and incompetence. He pretended to be illiterate and acted as though he could barely understand the basic circumstances of his imprisonment. This ruse, combined with his youthful appearance and seemingly simple demeanor, led his captors to underestimate him. Hegdahl's apparent harmlessness earned him a relatively lenient treatment compared to other POWs, many of whom were subjected to severe torture and harsh interrogation. This freedom allowed him to interact with other prisoners, where he quietly began to collect vital information. Hegdahl's keen memory became his most powerful tool. By covertly communicating with fellow POWs, he memorized the names, capture dates, and personal details of approximately 256 other American prisoners. He developed mnemonic devices and repeated the information constantly, ensuring he would not forget it. Hegdahl's captors sought to use him for propaganda purposes. They compelled him to write statements criticizing the U.S. and attempted to feature him in anti-American broadcasts. Hegdahl feigned compliance but deliberately sabotaged these efforts by inserting errors or delivering performances that were so unconvincing they failed to serve their intended purpose. His ability to walk the fine line between appearing cooperative and undermining his captors' objectives was critical in maintaining his cover. In 1969, Hegdahl was released as part of a propaganda initiative by the North Vietnamese. Unlike many POWs who resisted early release to avoid being used as political tools, Hegdahl's decision to leave was strategic. Senior officers among the prisoners encouraged him to accept release so he could bring his valuable information back to the U.S. government. Upon his return, Hegdahl briefed military officials and intelligence agencies, providing a comprehensive list of POWs still held in Vietnam. His meticulous recall of names and details played a key role in later efforts to account for missing personnel. Hegdahl's experience as a POW highlighted the importance of unconventional methods in resisting enemy tactics and supporting fellow prisoners. His ability to exploit his captors' assumptions about him demonstrated the value of adaptability and ingenuity in adverse conditions. While his story was less widely known than those of higher-ranking officers, his contributions to the broader POW effort were profound. After the war, Hegdahl's story became a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of American POWs. His efforts to document the identities and circumstances of his fellow captives provided crucial support to families and military officials seeking closure. In recounting his experiences, Hegdahl often emphasized the importance of collaboration and the shared commitment among POWs to resist their captors and uphold their duty despite extreme adversity. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

This video features a compelling conversation centered around a documentary in production about the “Donut Dollies” in Vietnam. The filmmaker, Libby, whose mother was a Donut Dolly, discusses her project and its significance in highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of these women during the Vietnam War. Libby's goal is to bring to light the stories of the 627 women who served as Donut Dollies, part of the American Red Cross's recreation program in Vietnam. She emphasizes that these women served for a full year, a commitment often minimized or misunderstood, and that they are still not officially recognized as military veterans. This lack of recognition is a driving force behind her documentary. The conversation opens with Libby explaining her motivation, fueled by her parents' story – her mother, a Donut Dolly, meeting her father, a helicopter pilot, at Camp Eagle. She notes the consistent surprise and misunderstanding she encounters when mentioning her mother's service, with people often assuming it was a short-term, superficial role. This misunderstanding underscores the need for a documentary that reveals the true scope and impact of the Donut Dollies' work in Vietnam. A significant part of the video focuses on Libby's quest to gather material for her documentary, titled something like “Donut Dollies: Brave Women in the Vietnam War.” She's already interviewed seventeen Donut Dollies, but she desperately needs veteran accounts to provide context and perspective. She actively solicits testimonials from Vietnam veterans, emphasizing that even brief recollections of their interactions with the Donut Dollies—positive memories or significant encounters—would greatly enhance the documentary. Several Vietnam veterans participate in the video call, offering invaluable insights and personal anecdotes. One veteran recounts a poignant story of a Donut Dolly, Jenny Kersch, who died shortly after arriving in Vietnam, highlighting the inherent risks these women faced. Another veteran, Rick Weber, a member of the 101st Airborne Division stationed at Camp Eagle, offers to connect Libby with Susan McLean, another Donut Dolly who served with Libby's mother. He shares his own positive memories of the Donut Dollies, emphasizing their significant morale-boosting role for enlisted men, a function officers weren't typically involved in. Other veterans share stories, including one of Donut Dollies asleep in a helicopter after a long day, and another of a Donut Dolly holding a baby at an airport before departing for Vietnam. This underscores the often-unseen human cost of service. The discussion also tackles the controversial “Donut Dolly” moniker itself. Some find the term demeaning and sexist, while others embrace it as the established term of endearment given by the troops they served. The participants acknowledge the diverse opinions surrounding the name, and that some women preferred “SR American Red Cross girls.” This demonstrates the complexity of the legacy of the Donut Dollies and the varied perspectives on this aspect of their service. The video concludes with Libby reiterating her urgent need for veterans' accounts and photos before the March release date, coinciding with Women's History Month, Red Cross Month, and Vietnam Veterans Day. She makes contact information available, underscoring the importance of sharing these stories to ensure the Donut Dollies' contributions during the Vietnam War are properly acknowledged and remembered. The conversation reveals not only the Donut Dollies' significant role in boosting morale in Vietnam but also the lasting impact their service has had on the veterans they supported, as well as their own personal and enduring legacy. The call to action for veterans to share their memories underlines the documentary's aim: to finally give these brave women in Vietnam the recognition and respect they so richly deserve. #donutdollies #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

John Quintrell served in Vietnam as a member of the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, known as the “Wolfhounds,” part of the 25th Infantry Division. His service spanned a full year of intense combat in 1968, during the Vietnam War. This was a period of high conflict, marked by the Tet Offensive and fierce engagements against the North Vietnamese Army (NVA) and Viet Cong forces. In his memoir, My 365 Days with the Wolfhounds, Quintrell provides a detailed, firsthand account of his experiences during that year. The book captures the daily realities of a combat soldier in Vietnam, including the challenges of jungle warfare, camaraderie among troops, moments of fear and resilience, and the psychological toll of war. His narrative combines personal anecdotes, vivid descriptions of firefights, and reflections on the broader impact of the conflict on soldiers and civilians. The memoir serves as a tribute to his fellow soldiers and offers readers a raw and authentic perspective on the Vietnam War from someone who lived through its harrowing realities. The podcast series Someone Is Killing the Wolfhounds is a dramatic adaptation My 365 Days With The Wolfhounds. It chronicles the intense, true story of a group of soldiers in Vietnam grappling with the horrors of war and their volatile, dangerous lieutenant, Ritter. The series captures their decision to take extreme measures to survive, combining the tension of Training Day with the gritty realism of Platoon. The podcast is produced by Voyage Media and features vivid storytelling with professional sound design, original music, and a compelling cast. It spans ten episodes, exploring themes of camaraderie, survival, and moral conflict amidst the chaos of the Vietnam War. Quintrell himself served as an executive producer, ensuring authenticity in the portrayal of events from his memoir​ You can listen to the podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

We are joined by 100-year young WWII 31st Bomb Squad B-24 "Big Buff" Tail Gunner Art McGann. We also talk with veterans about their DEROS from the military.  Thank you to our sponsors Tobacco Free Adagio Health and UPMC for Life.

Members of the Vietnam Women Veterans Association, who served in staff and lines positions in Vietnam, share their stories with us. The vast majority of women in Vietnam, over 10,000, served as nurses. But our guests were some of the 1,000 or so other women in Vietnam who weren't nurses. Our roster of guests include: Pat Jernigan (Army), Elaine James (Army), Nancy Jurgevich (Army), Audrey Bergstresser (Army), Carmen Adams (Navy), Marti Gallo (Air Force), Jeanne Gourley (Air Force), and Sandra Spatz (Marines).  Apart from nurses, most women in Vietnam were Army WACs. WACs held a range of positions, including administrative roles, clerical work, intelligence, communications, and other support functions. Their work was crucial to the daily operations of the U.S. military in Vietnam, as they handled essential tasks that kept the military machine running smoothly. Many WACs served in administrative positions, working as secretaries, typists, and clerks. These women were responsible for managing military records, typing reports, handling correspondence, and performing other office duties. Their work was often behind the scenes, but it was vital to maintaining the efficiency and organization of military operations. Administrative WACs ensured that orders were processed, records were kept accurately, and communication lines remained open, allowing the military to function effectively. Some WACs were assigned to intelligence and communications roles. In these positions, women worked on gathering, analyzing, and disseminating information critical to military operations. They may have been involved in decoding messages, monitoring enemy communications, or assisting in the planning and coordination of missions. These roles required a high level of skill and attention to detail, as mistakes could have serious consequences for military strategy and the safety of troops. WACs also worked in a variety of support services, including logistics, supply management, and personnel management. They were responsible for ensuring that soldiers had the supplies they needed, managing equipment and resources, and assisting in the coordination of personnel movements. These roles were essential to maintaining the overall effectiveness of the military force in Vietnam, ensuring that soldiers were well-equipped and supported in the field. WACs in Vietnam faced a number of challenges, both in their professional roles and in their daily lives. The environment was often hostile, with the constant threat of attacks and the difficult conditions of living in a war zone. Additionally, many of these women faced gender-based discrimination and skepticism from their male counterparts, who were not always accustomed to working alongside women in the military. Despite these challenges, the women of the WAC proved their value through their competence, dedication, and professionalism. They worked long hours, often under stressful conditions, and played a critical role in supporting the war effort. Their presence in Vietnam also marked an important step in the evolution of women's roles in the military, as they demonstrated that women could perform effectively in a variety of military functions beyond nursing. The service of WACs in Vietnam helped pave the way for greater integration of women into the U.S. military. The Vietnam War was one of the first conflicts where women served in a combat zone in significant numbers, and their contributions were an important part of the overall war effort. The experience of WACs in Vietnam demonstrated that women could perform a wide range of military duties, leading to increased opportunities for women in the military in the years following the war. In 1978, five years after the end of the Vietnam War, the Women's Army Corps was disbanded, and women were fully integrated into the regular Army. The legacy of the WACs, particularly those who served in Vietnam, lives on as an important chapter in the history of women in the military. Their service helped to challenge traditional gender roles and opened the door for future generations of women to serve in more diverse and challenging roles within the armed forces. Only after decades of protest and court challenges were these discriminatory policies amended. And it wasn't until 2015 that the Department of Defense ended all restrictions on women's service. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

We are privileged to welcome Le Ly Hayslip, whose memoir, When Heaven and Earth Changed Places, was the first to bring the story of a former Viet Cong and Vietnam refugee to American readers. Oliver Stone later made the book into a major motion picture starring Tommy Lee Jones. Ms. Hayslip is the founder of the East Meets West Foundation, now known as Thrive Networks. Her story is one of unimaginable trauma somehow matched by powerful resilience and a will to thrive. She was born in poverty in a village near Da Nang as the First Indochina War neared it height. What Americans call the Vietnam War followed, and her village became a frontline for the conflict between the Viet Cong and South Vietnamese government forces, backed by the United States. As a teenager, Le Ly joined the Viet Cong, primarily as a result of her village's political leanings and the influence they held over the area. Her role involved basic support tasks such as cooking and transporting supplies, but she also set booby traps and planted mines. She was arrested and tortured by South Vietnamese forces, who suspected her of espionage for the Viet Cong. This experience was traumatizing, and after her release, she faced suspicion from the Viet Cong as well, who questioned her loyalty. The double scrutiny and resulting abuses left her isolated and vulnerable. To escape the violence and constant threat of harm, Le Ly left her village and found work in Da Nang, where she encountered new struggles. She took on various jobs to survive–many of them illegal–and became involved with American soldiers, which brought a degree of financial stability but exposed her to new risks. In the early 1970s, Le Ly met Ed Munro, an American civilian contractor who eventually became her husband. Their relationship offered her a way out of Vietnam, and she emigrated to the United States with him. Upon arrival, Le Ly faced a new set of challenges: culture shock, language barriers, and the struggle to adapt to an entirely different way of life. Although safe from the violence of war, she was haunted by the trauma of her past and had to navigate the demands of her new life as a mother and immigrant. After settling in the United States, Le Ly worked a variety of jobs to support herself and her children. Though she and Munro eventually divorced, Le Ly persevered, working to provide for her family and find stability. Her journey gave her a unique perspective on both Vietnamese and American cultures, and over time, she began to process her experiences by writing her memoir, When Heaven and Earth Changed Places, published in 1989. In it, she shared her personal account of life during the Vietnam War, her family's struggles, and her journey to America. Her story offered an intimate view of the human cost of war, aiming to bridge understanding between Americans and Vietnamese. Le Ly's memoir caught the attention of American film director Oliver Stone, who was moved by her story and its focus on the impact of war on civilians, especially women. Stone had already explored the Vietnam War from an American perspective in Platoon and Born on the Fourth of July. With Heaven and Earth, released in 1993, he completed his Vietnam War trilogy, this time focusing on the Vietnamese experience. The film, adapted from Le Ly's memoirs When Heaven and Earth Changed Places and Child of War, Woman of Peace, follows her journey from Vietnam to America, highlighting her experiences with violence, survival, and resilience. Beyond her writing, Le Ly became a humanitarian and advocate for peace and reconciliation. In 1988, she founded the East Meets West Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving relations between Vietnam and the United States and aiding Vietnamese communities in need. The foundation has supported various projects, including medical assistance, educational programs, and infrastructure development, helping Vietnamese people affected by the war rebuild their lives. Through her humanitarian work, Le Ly sought to bridge the gap between her two worlds, fostering understanding and healing across cultures. Le Ly Hayslip's life story reflects the complexities of war, survival, and adaptation. Her work as an author, film collaborator, and humanitarian has contributed to greater awareness of the Vietnam War's impact on civilians and helped foster cross-cultural understanding. Through her story and her efforts, she has become a powerful advocate for peace and a testament to resilience amid the devastation of war. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

Veterans Day Open Conversation ranges far and wide settling on this first opening question: is it right and proper to wish a veteran a "Happy Veterans Day." The consensus among our veterans is that it isn't, though Todd offers a tepid dissent.  In the course of the conversation, we also examine the distinctions made between Veterans and "Combat Veterans," "Vietnam Veterans" and "Vietnam Era Veterans," and the propriety of saying "thank you for your service." Some veterans feel awkward or uncomfortable when people say "Happy Veterans Day" or "Thank you for your service." Younger veterans, in particular, often feel these phrases are too generic. It seems an empty, overused phrase that lacks genuine understanding. Some don't view their service as extraordinary, but rather as a job they signed up for and completed. For them, the phrase “thank you for your service” can feel impersonal, as if it's used to satisfy social etiquette rather than express true appreciation. Some even feel it allows civilians to alleviate guilt about not having served themselves, without truly engaging with the challenges veterans face. For some, the recognition doesn't align with the pride they take in their service or with the fact that they volunteered for it, unlike those who served in past wars when there was a draft. Acknowledging a veteran in a way that opens the door to more meaningful interaction can feel more genuine. Instead of only expressing thanks, some veterans suggest engaging more personally: ask about their specific roles, current lives, or goals. For those who wish to show appreciation, actions like volunteering or educating oneself on veterans' issues are more meaningful ways to honor their sacrifices and uphold the freedoms they served to protect. The Veterans Breakfast Club isn't  just for veterans. It's for everyone who wants to understand the lives of those who served. Whether you're a veteran seeking camaraderie, a civilian wanting to learn, or simply someone who appreciates the value of service, the VBC welcomes you . Join us online – become part of their mission to honor stories, build bridges, and ensure that every day is Veterans Day. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

VBC Scuttlebutt Open Conversation is a friendly, interactive gathering of veterans, friends of veterans, and history nerds where we discuss whatever aspects of military service, past or present, or the veterans community that are on our minds. Join us to swap stories, good and bad, at home and overseas, old and new. We've asked Lt. Colonel John J. McBrearty–“Colonel Mack”–to join us to talk about his 32 years Army and Marine Corps service, as well as his voluminous writing about American history, military experience, and other topics. We've also invited Vietnam Navy veterans John Denk and Tracy Garner to come on and talk about the Navy side of Linebacker II, the last major US operation of the Vietnam War in December 1972. Denk was aboard the USS Floyd B Parks (DD-884) during the operation and saw USS Goldsborough (DDG-20) get hit by NVA counter-battery rounds on December 19, 1972. The last three Navy blue water sailors killed in Vietnam were aboard: the Donald Dix, Robert Dow, and Gary Boyce. Damage aboard on the Goldsborough, December 19, 1972 We'll also talk about whatever topics or questions you'd like to bring up! We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

Historian Rona Simmons joins us to talk about a single day in World War II: October 24, 1944. Those 24 hours were the deadliest for U.S. service members during World War II. This day, however, is not widely known in the same way as events like Pearl Harbor or D-Day. It was an “average” day in the vast scale of the war, yet for the 2,600 soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who died, and their families, it was anything but average. In her book No Average Day: The 24 Hours of October 24, 1944, historian Rona Simmons meticulously chronicles the tragic events of that day, highlighting the personal stories behind the statistics. The title captures her main argument—that no day in war, especially for those who lost their lives, is truly “average.” She recounts how these individuals, from all walks of life and different parts of the country, were ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances. They ranged from cooks to clerks, riflemen to machinists, who all perished in ways as varied as their backgrounds: in hand-to-hand combat, drowning, burning, being shot down in aircraft, or perishing in ship sinkings. One of the most notable tragedies of that day was the sinking of the Japanese “hellship” Arisan Maru, which was transporting American POWs. It accounted for two-thirds of the deaths, as hundreds of prisoners died when the ship was torpedoed by a U.S. submarine, unaware it was carrying Americans. The narrative of No Average Day emphasizes the forgotten or overlooked moments of war—those skirmishes and lesser-known incidents in which many perished, whose names and stories often didn't make headlines. Simmons underscores the human cost of these “small” deaths, which were part of the larger machinery of war but equally important in understanding its human toll. The personal stories, like those of Paul Miller, who died in a Japanese POW camp, and Wanza Matthews, killed in a submarine attack, are framed against a chaotic global war, yet these soldiers' final moments are intimately told, adding depth to their sacrifice. Simmons' account, through thorough research and personal artifacts, seeks to give voice to the individuals behind the numbers, reflecting on how each death rippled through their families and communities. Ultimately, Simmons argues that while October 24, 1944, might seem like just another day in the vast timeline of World War II, it was anything but average for the thousands who gave their lives. The title No Average Day captures this essence, illustrating how the personal costs of war transcend the statistics. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

Our monthly Open Conversation with military veterans focuses on Navy veterans in recognition of the the US Navy's 249th birthday celebrated on October 13. We'll have Navy veterans sharing stories, answering questions, and describing why their branch is the best.  We'll also hear from Beverly, Massachusetts, and Navy history expert Rich Pescatore on the real origins of the US Navy.  Vietnam Veteran Walt Brinker, USMA Class of 1966, tells us why his men in the 173rd Airborne and 1st Cav in 1966-1967 never used bandoliers for the M-60 ammunition. Ralph and Eric Grabowsky give us an update on their research on "Little John," the largest calibre gun in history. The origins of the United States Navy lie in the siege of Boston and the city's occupation by the British Army in 1775. After the Battle of Bunker Hill, when the Continentals sensed British vulnerability, newly commissioned General George Washington called for a ship that could patrol off shore to prevent the British from being resupplied by sea. Naval support could also obtain resources for the Continental forces. The Continental Congress wasn't so keen on a Navy. Ships were expensive and the British fleet's power was overwhelming.  Washington, then, acted on his own. On September 2, 1775, he ordered the schooner Hannah be commissioned as the first authorized patriot warship. The Hannah was a small vessel, crewed by civilians and captained by Nicholas Broughton, tasked with raiding British supply ships off the coast of Massachusetts. While not an official navy vessel, the Hannah set an important precedent by showing that naval warfare could complement the land-based efforts of the Continental Army. Following the success of the Hannah, Washington commissioned other vessels to harass British ships, but these early efforts were ad hoc, operating under the authority of the Continental Army rather than an organized navy.  On October 13, 1775, the Continental Congress took decisive action, officially authorizing the creation of a Continental Navy. The Congress passed a resolution to outfit two ships, tasked with intercepting British supply vessels. This date is now celebrated as the official birthday of the United States Navy. Over the next several months, the Continental Congress expanded the fleet, commissioning additional ships and appointing officers to lead them.  Its early successes included raids on British ships and supply lines, which weakened the enemy's war effort and boosted American morale. Constantly underfunded and undersupplied, the Continental Navy nonetheless helped secure international alliances, especially with France, which joined the war on the side of the American colonies in 1778. With the Treaty of Paris signed in 1783, formally ending the American Revolution, the newly independent United States dismantled the Navy, and its ships were sold off. Without a navy, the U.S. government had little means of protecting its commercial interests abroad, and the constant harassment of American ships by pirates and European powers underscored the need for a naval revival. Congress passed the Naval Act of 1794, which authorized the construction of six frigates, marking the formal revival of the U.S. Navy. These ships, which would become known as the "Original Six Frigates", included the USS Constitution, USS United States, USS President, USS Congress, USS Chesapeake, and USS Constellation. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

VBC Scuttlebutt welcomes bestselling author Tony Swofford to talk about his iconic memoir, Jarhead: A Marine's Chronicle of the Gulf War and Other Battles. The book is a raw and unflinching memoir that delves into the experiences of a Marine sniper during the First Gulf War. Swofford, who enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at a young age, offers a gritty, firsthand account of the psychological and emotional challenges faced by soldiers both on and off the battlefield. The book begins with Swofford's grueling training as a Marine, where he is shaped into a skilled sniper. The narrative is filled with vivid descriptions of the dehumanizing aspects of military life, where individuality is stripped away, and soldiers are conditioned to kill. Swofford doesn't shy away from depicting the harsh realities of military culture, including the intense physical and mental pressures that lead to a profound sense of alienation and existential angst. When Swofford and his unit are deployed to the Saudi Arabian desert during Operation Desert Storm, the anticipation of combat weighs heavily on the soldiers. However, much of their time is spent in a state of frustrating inactivity, enduring the boredom and psychological strain of waiting for a battle that never comes. The memoir captures the paradox of modern warfare, where the soldiers' most significant battles are often fought within themselves rather than against the enemy. Swofford's account is deeply introspective, exploring his inner turmoil and disillusionment with the war. He reflects on the violence and destruction inherent in his role as a sniper, the moral ambiguity of war, and the impact of his service on his sense of identity. The book is not just a war memoir but also a meditation on the personal costs of being a soldier—the loss of innocence, the struggle with post-traumatic stress, and the difficulty of reintegrating into civilian life after experiencing the horrors of war. Jarhead is notable for its stark, unromanticized portrayal of military life. Swofford's writing is direct and honest, offering a sobering view of the emotional toll that war takes on those who fight it. His account challenges the glorified image of war often seen in popular culture, revealing the deep psychological scars left on soldiers. In 2005, Jarhead was adapted into a Hollywood movie directed by Sam Mendes and starring Jake Gyllenhaal as Anthony “Swoff” Swofford. The film stays true to the tone and themes of the book, focusing on the boredom, frustration, and internal conflicts faced by Marines during the Gulf War. While the movie captures the desolate landscapes and the tension of waiting for combat, it also highlights the camaraderie and dark humor that soldiers use to cope with the psychological stress of war. The film was well-received for its performances and cinematography, though some critics noted that it, like the book, is more of a character study than a traditional war movie. It emphasizes the psychological effects of war over action, making it a unique entry in the war film genre. Both the book and the movie offer a compelling look at the complexities of military life and the lasting impact of war on those who serve. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

VBC Scuttlebutt welcomes bestselling author Kristin Hannah to talk about her wildy popular and well-reviewed novel The Women. The book tells the story of Frances “Frankie” McGrath, a young woman from a privileged California family who defies societal expectations to serve as an Army nurse during the Vietnam War. Frankie's decision to enlist is driven by a sense of duty and a desire to prove herself, but she quickly learns that war is far more brutal and complex than she imagined. In Vietnam, Frankie is thrust into a world of chaos, tending to wounded soldiers and witnessing the devastating effects of combat. The novel vividly portrays the harsh realities of war, including the physical and emotional toll it takes on both soldiers and those who care for them. Hannah doesn't shy away from the trauma and loss that define Frankie's experience, capturing the fear, exhaustion, and helplessness that pervade her days in the field. Frankie's return to the United States is marked by a profound sense of disillusionment. She comes home to a country that is deeply divided over the war, and instead of receiving recognition for her service, she faces indifference and hostility. The novel explores the stark contrast between the hero's welcome expected by returning soldiers and the cold reception many Vietnam veterans actually received, particularly women. Frankie's struggles with post-traumatic stress, guilt, and the overwhelming sense of isolation highlight the emotional burden carried by those who served. As she tries to reintegrate into civilian life, Frankie finds herself alienated not only by society but also by her own family, who cannot understand what she has been through. The novel examines the psychological impact of war, particularly the way it haunts veterans long after they leave the battlefield. Frankie's internal battle is as harrowing as the war itself, as she grapples with the memories of those she couldn't save and the moral complexities of her actions. #vietnamwar  #vietnamveterans  #thewomen #nursestories  #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2  #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast  #happyhour #thirtyyearswar  We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

Ralph Galati shares the story of his harrowing experience as a prisoner of war (POW) during the Vietnam War. Galati's capture occurred during Operation Linebacker, an air campaign aimed at disrupting North Vietnamese supply lines and military infrastructure. On February 16, 1972, while on a mission, Galati's F-4 Phantom II was struck by enemy fire. Ejecting from the aircraft, he and his fellow pilot, Bill Hill, were quickly captured by North Vietnamese forces. They were then transported to the infamous “Hanoi Hilton,” nickname of the Hoa Lo Prison. The conditions at the Hanoi Hilton were severe, with prisoners subjected to physical and psychological torture, malnutrition, and isolation. Despite these conditions, Galati, like many of his fellow POWs, displayed remarkable resilience. The camaraderie among the prisoners was crucial to their survival, as they developed a covert communication system using taps and codes to maintain morale and share information. This support network helped them endure the harsh treatment and isolation imposed by their captors. Galati's faith and determination played a significant role in his ability to withstand the hardships of captivity. He has often spoken about how his belief in God and his love for his family gave him the strength to persevere. His experience as a POW also deepened his sense of duty and commitment to his fellow servicemen, inspiring him to become a strong advocate for veterans' issues after his release. After spending nearly 14 months in captivity, Ralph Galati was released on March 28, 1973, as part of Operation Homecoming, the repatriation of American POWs following the Paris Peace Accords. Upon returning to the United States, he transitioned from active duty to a role in the Air Force Reserves and later pursued a civilian career in business and education. Galati has been an active voice in veteran communities, sharing his story to inspire and educate others about the realities of war and the resilience of the human spirit. He has worked extensively with organizations that support veterans and their families, emphasizing the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by servicemen and women. His story is not just one of survival but also of leadership and service, as he continues to dedicate his life to helping others, particularly those who have served in the military. #vietnamwar  #vietnamveterans  #airforce  #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2  #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast  #happyhour #thirtyyearswar  We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

In his award-winning book of short stories, Surrender, Brian O'Hare delves into the complexities of the American hero myth and its impact on his own life. As the son of a larger-than-life Marine officer, O'Hare was drawn to the allure of military service, seeking to emulate his father's legacy. However, after witnessing the devastating effects of war on his father's health, O'Hare began to question the validity of the hero myth. He realized that the idealized image of the American hero, often portrayed in Hollywood films and popular culture, was far removed from the realities of combat. Brian O'Hare is a graduate of the US Naval Academy, former Marine Corps officer and Persian Gulf War veteran.  Currently, he's an award-winning writer and filmmaker living in Los Angeles. His work has appeared in War, Literature and the Arts; Hobart,Electric Literature and others, and has been nominated for two Pushcart Prizes. Most recently, National Book Award winner Phil Klay awarded Brian Syracuse University Press' 2021 Veterans Writing Award for Surrender. Through his writing, O'Hare deconstructs the myth of the team captain and the Marine, exposing the flaws and vulnerabilities that lie beneath the surface. He explores the psychological toll that war takes on individuals, the sacrifices they make, and the lasting scars they bear. O'Hare's journey is a personal one, but it also resonates with a broader cultural shift. As society evolves, so too does our understanding of heroism. The traditional notions of masculinity and military prowess are being challenged, and new definitions of heroism are emerging. In Surrender, O'Hare invites us to question our own assumptions about what it means to be a hero. He suggests that true heroism lies not in physical strength or military glory, but in the courage to face our own mortality, to embrace our imperfections, and to strive for a more just and compassionate world. As O'Hare reflects on his father's legacy and his own experiences, he grapples with the question of what he will pass on to his son. He recognizes that the American hero myth is a powerful force, but he also believes that it is essential to challenge its limitations and to create a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of heroism. Through his writing, O'Hare hopes to inspire others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and to question the myths that shape our society. By demythologizing the American hero myth, he opens up the possibility for a more authentic and meaningful definition of heroism to emerge. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

VBC Scuttlebutt Open Conversation poses the question: does the term “combat veteran” demean the service of “rear echelon” soldiers, sailors, and Marines? Author and Vietnam veteran Marc Leepson thinks it does. We discuss this question.  Leepson published an article in Vietnam magazine in 2019, recently reprinted on Vietnam War website cherrieswriter.com, titled “What Did You Do in Vietnam?” Leepson writes: I admire and respect every Vietnam veteran who served in the combat arms. . . . . But using “combat veteran” obliquely demeans the service of all of us clerks, cooks, truck drivers and other rear-echelon types. I realize that most people who use that term don't intend to minimize or mock the wartime service of hundreds of thousands of other veterans, but that's exactly what it does. I was astonished to see British journalist Max Hastings go out of his way in his recent, big history of the war, Vietnam: An Epic Tragedy 1945-1975, to deride the service of anyone who wasn't humping the boonies in Vietnam. How else to interpret this snarky, condescending sentence in which he sums up all rear echeloners' war service: “Maybe two-thirds of the men who came home calling themselves veterans—entitled to wear the medal and talk about their PTSD troubles—had been exposed to no greater risk than a man might incur from ill-judged sex or ‘bad shit' drugs.” I understand that infantrymen could have negative feelings about us rear echeloners, but we were doing the jobs the military asked us to. And in Vietnam, contrary to Hastings' ridiculous generalization, you were in danger no matter where you were. Although there are no official statistics, the best estimate is that 75 to 90 percent of those who served in Vietnam were in support units. That's more than 2 million men and women who came home without the label “combat veteran.” My suggestion to fellow veterans and those who never put on the uniform: Please consider dropping “combat veteran” from your vocabulary and replace it with “war veteran.” Or “Vietnam War veteran.” Or “Iraq War veteran” or “Afghanistan War veteran.” We're curious to know how many in our Veterans Breakfast Club group feel similarly. We'd also like to hear from those who think that distinguishing between comabt and non-combat service is a reasonable and even necessary way of acknowledging the different kinds of Armed Forces service. The VBC has a strong and long track record of serious and civil conversations that divide the veterans and military community, and this conversation will be no different. And, of course, we'll also talk about any other subjects you might like to bring up. So, join our friendly, interactive gathering of veterans, friends of veterans, and history nerds discussing whatever aspects of military service, past or present, or the veterans community that are on your minds. Join us to swap stories, good and bad, at home and overseas, old and new. At the VBC, veterans from every era and branch are drawn together by the warm glow of shared purpose. These stories aren't just for veterans; they're for everyone who wants to understand the lives of those who served. Whether you're a veteran seeking camaraderie, a civilian wanting to learn, or simply someone who appreciates the value of service, the VBC welcomes you with open arms. Join us online – become part of their mission to honor stories, build bridges, and ensure that every day is Veterans Day. #combatveteran   #veterans #usmc  #veteran #militaryhistory #interview #vietnam #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911

We welcome journalist Jeanne McKinney to shine a light on a little-known episode of the war in Afghanistan that illuminates the larger political, social, and military landscape of our longest war. Jeanne's book, Triumph Over the Taliban: The Untold Story of US Marines' Courageous Fight to Save Camp Bastion, tells the story of September 12, 2012, in Helmand Province, Afghanistan when an attack on Camp Bastion, a critical forward operating base, showcased the resilience, bravery, and strategic acumen of the US Marines. Camp Bastion was a massive military base established by the British and later expanded to include US Marines and Afghan forces. Spanning 40 square miles with a 25-mile fence line, the base was situated in one of the most volatile regions of Afghanistan. The base's sheer size and strategic importance made it a prime target for the Taliban, who were deeply entrenched in the surrounding poppy fields, a key source of their funding. The Taliban meticulously planned their assault on Camp Bastion for over a year. Originally scheduled for July 2012, the attack was postponed due to an accidental explosion during training. The final assault was executed on a particularly dark night, leveraging the element of surprise. Fifteen Taliban fighters infiltrated the base, aiming to destroy aircraft and kill as many Marines as possible. What made this attack unique was the Taliban's approach. Unlike their usual tactics of using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), this was a ground assault. The fighters carried rifles and RPGs, prepared for direct combat—a rare and bold move for the Taliban. The Marines stationed at Camp Bastion demonstrated exceptional valor and quick thinking. Upon hearing the initial explosions, they initially assumed it was a controlled detonation. However, they quickly realized the gravity of the situation and sprang into action. Despite the chaos and darkness, the Marines mobilized, formed defensive positions, and protected civilians on the base. One of the most remarkable aspects of their response was the transition of Aviation Marines into infantry roles. Trained to handle crises, they put down their wrenches and picked up rifles, showcasing the versatility and preparedness ingrained in Marine training. Their swift and coordinated actions prevented what could have been a catastrophic loss of life and equipment. The attack on Camp Bastion occurred three days after the Benghazi attack, which dominated the news cycle. As a result, this significant event did not receive the attention it deserved. Media reports often focused on the blame game, targeting two Marine generals for security lapses. This narrative overshadowed the heroism displayed by the Marines on the ground. At the time, there was a push to downsize the military presence in Afghanistan, leading to reduced security measures at bases like Camp Bastion. The generals on the ground, aware of the vulnerabilities, requested additional resources and security enhancements, but these were denied due to political considerations. This incident underscores the broader issue of how military decisions are often influenced by political agendas, sometimes at the expense of on-ground safety and effectiveness. The attack on Camp Bastion serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust security measures and the importance of listening to military leaders who understand the complexities of the battlefield. The attack on Camp Bastion is a powerful example of military courage and the complexities of modern warfare. It highlights the importance of readiness, the impact of political decisions on military operations, and the need to honor and recognize the sacrifices of those who serve. As we reflect on this event, it serves as a reminder of the bravery of the US Marines and the enduring spirit of those who stand on the front lines to protect our freedoms. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #afganistan  #veterans #usmc  #veteran #militaryhistory #interview #vietnam #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911

Former U.S. Army Staff Sergeant and Afghanistan War veteran Mikael Cook joins us to talk about the August 2021 evacuation of Afghanistan. Mikael was a part of the #DigitalDunkirk team that saved thousands of Afghan allies who had been left behind. He was personally responsible for the evacuation of 20 of our allies. “Life and Death at Abbey Gate” by Mikael Cook provides a harrowing account of the chaotic final days of the U.S. evacuation from Afghanistan in August 2021. The book centers on the efforts of an ad-hoc group of American veterans and other personnel who mobilized to help evacuate Afghan allies and civilians amid the Taliban's rapid takeover of Kabul. The narrative begins with the formation of the #DigitalDunkirk initiative, a civilian-led effort named after the World War II evacuation of Dunkirk, which saw thousands of people working tirelessly to coordinate evacuations using encrypted messaging apps and real-time intelligence. These individuals included CIA and NSA agents, military veterans, and legislative aides, who collectively formed a formidable network aimed at rescuing those left behind​. Cook's story is told through multiple perspectives, including his own and that of his Afghan friend Abdul, as well as members of the 2/1 Marines stationed at Hamid Karzai International Airport (HKIA). The Marines at Abbey Gate faced intense conditions, working under immense pressure and witnessing scenes that brought many to tears. Their work culminated in the tragic suicide bombing by an ISIS-K attacker, which killed 13 U.S. service members and numerous Afghan civilians​​. The book highlights the logistical and tactical challenges of the evacuation, criticizing the decision to abandon Bagram Airfield, which left HKIA as the sole evacuation point. This move is depicted as a strategic blunder, complicating the already perilous operation​. Throughout “Life and Death at Abbey Gate,” Cook emphasizes the dedication and bravery of those involved in the evacuation, portraying their efforts as a testament to the U.S. military's commitment to its allies. The book underscores the emotional and physical toll on everyone involved and serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of war and the complexities of military withdrawal​ . #afganistan #veterans #kabulairport2021  #veteran #interview #vietnam #vet #militaryhistory #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

Tonight, we share the story of the last plane to leave Saigon, a C-130, which departed Tan Son Nhut Air Base just before North Vietnamese forces took over on April 29, 1975. The C-130, missing its cargo door, was filled with hundreds of Vietnamese refugees, including the Nguyen family. Among them was three-year-old Truc Nguyen. Her father, Chau Tan Nguyen, a 40-year-old lieutenant colonel and C-130 pilot in the South Vietnamese Air Force, was determined to fly his family and others to safety. Despite the chaos and rockets firing past the aircraft, the plane took off successfully. Tragically, Chau Tan Nguyen was not on board, as his seat was notably empty. Truc–now called Eva– joins us to talk about her new book Uncommon Cargo: Sacrifice. Survival. Hope., written with Jason Nulton, a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force. The book details the Nguyen family's harrowing escape and their gratitude towards the United States for providing refuge and assistance during their desperate time of need. Nulton, moved by Eva's story, emphasized the family's incredible journey against overwhelming odds and their fight for freedom. Uncommon Cargo dramatizes the real events leading to Saigon's fall and Chau Tan Nguyen's plan to evacuate his family. The narrative begins on April 29, 1975, detailing the frantic preparations of the Nguyen family as North Vietnamese forces closed in on Saigon. The book also recounts the broader context of the Fall of Saigon, including the North Vietnamese offensive in Quang Tri province, the resignation of South Vietnam's President Nguyen Van Thieu, and the surrounding of Saigon by 100,000 North Vietnamese soldiers. The Nguyen family had long rented their home to Americans, assumed to be CIA agents, placing them in immediate danger when the communists took over. Many who had collaborated with the Americans faced execution or re-education camps. Following their escape, the Nguyen family settled in Northern Virginia, sponsored by a member of the Falls Church Presbyterian Church. They lived next to the church, where Eva learned to ride a bike. Hong Van Nguyen, the family patriarch, stayed behind in Vietnam to salvage his business but eventually escaped as one of the first boat people, reuniting with his family in 1977. He passed away in 1990. #militaryhistory #vietnamwar #veterans #pacificwar #veteran #interview #vietnam #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

VBC Scuttlebutt Open Conversation is a friendly, interactive gathering of veterans, friends of veterans, and history nerds where we discuss whatever aspects of military service, past or present, or the veterans community that are on our minds. Join us to swap stories, good and bad, at home and overseas, old and new.  Tonight we talk about Camp LeJeune water contamination and the deadline to file a claim. We also discuss "Words of Veterans," a project by USMC veteran Alex Sebby. We cover the debate over who is a Gold Star Family, as examined by a recent Pentagon working group. And, along the way, we discuss the best and worst chow you had in the military and the passing of Lt. William Calley, infamously convicted in the My Lai Massacre of 1968. These stories aren't just for veterans; they're for everyone who wants to understand the lives of those who served. Whether you're a veteran seeking camaraderie, a civilian wanting to learn, or simply someone who appreciates the value of service, the VBC welcomes you with open arms. Join us online – become part of their mission to honor stories, build bridges, and ensure that every day is Veterans Day. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

Brian Morra joins us again to talk about his followup to his successful thriller The Able Archers. Brian's new book, The Righteous Arrows, takes the story to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, an event that previewed the wars following the attacks of September 11, 2001. Brian is a highly decorated former American intelligence officer and a retired aerospace executive. He is the author of the award-winning Able Archers series of historical thrillers. Brian bases his book's characters on himself and on people he encountered as an intelligence officer. He also brings into play countries and places that he knows firsthand in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. His books are based on real events but read like page-turning thrillers. Brian has written numerous articles for national publications and is an on-air expert in the new Netflix series on the Cold War called Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War. He also contributed his extensive expertise to the newly released CNN/BBC documentary called Secrets and Spies: A Nuclear Game.  After collaborating to thwart nuclear war in The Able Archers, Kevin Cattani and his Soviet counterpart, Ivan Levchenko, developed a deep mutual respect—but in The Righteous Arrows they are working against each other. Cattani, despite serious misgivings, conducts a perilous covert mission inside a Soviet bunker and barely escapes with his life, putting himself on a collision course with Levchenko. Their ultimate confrontation comes on a battlefield during the brutal Soviet war in Afghanistan, where Levchenko issues the American an ominous warning that will echo for decades. Foreshadowing the global war on terror, former Air Force Intelligence officer Brian Morra illuminates the stubbornly persistent rivalry between the US and Russia in this heart-stopping story of international espionage and war. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

Combat veterans may not tell their children about their experiences, but they transmit them invisibly, almost imperceptibly, through deep channels of influence in the mind, body, and psyche. Author, artist, and son of Vietnam veteran Carl Sciacchitano joins us to talk about his family story as captured in his new graphic memoir, The Heart That Fed: A Father, A Son, and the Long Shadow of War. Also joining the conversation is internationally recognized neuroscientist Dr. Nadia Rupniak, whose father served in the Polish Army in World War II and received his country's highest military decoration for heroism.  The stories we hear from Carl and Nadia inform a broader discussion on transgenerational trauma—how the traumatic experience of war can echo across generations. Violence, uncertainty, and tension can bring heightened caution and fear to children and family members, long after the real danger has passed. This phenomenon, where trauma impacts individuals beyond those directly affected, can effect descendants who may not have had any direct exposure to the traumatic events themselves. As Dr. Kimberly Copeland, Military Behavioral Health Psychologist  at the Center for Deployment Psychology at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, outlines, transgenerational trauma can be understood through three main mechanisms: nature, nurture, and narrative. Nature: Trauma impacts the whole person—mind, body, and psyche. Research in epigenetics, such as studies on cortisol levels, suggests that the physiological impacts of trauma can be passed down from parents to children. Variations in cortisol levels, influenced by trauma, can predispose individuals to PTSD and other stress-related disorders. Nurture: Socio-psychological impacts of trauma, such as stress, low self-esteem, and impaired functioning, can be transmitted through learned behaviors and psychological symptoms. Studies highlight the transmission of these effects from combat veterans to their children, indicating a pattern of secondary trauma that could lead to intergenerational impacts. Narrative: Even when trauma survivors do not explicitly share their experiences, their behaviors and the silence around these topics can influence future generations. Cultural and communal stories, as seen in Holocaust survivor families, can perpetuate a latent form of trauma, influencing descendants through the collective memory and narratives of the community. The narrative stresses the importance of recognizing and understanding transgenerational trauma to facilitate healing. Healing should focus on identifying risk and resiliency factors, adopting holistic approaches, and utilizing culturally and spiritually congruent practices. The author reflects on the growth and bonding experienced with their sister, Trinh, suggesting that understanding and shared experiences can aid in healing from transgenerational trauma. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

When one half of a couple joins the military, the other does also, in a sense, by default. There can be a sense of abandonment, as well as a troubling intimation that the military will always come first. Military spouse Simone Gorrindo joins us to talk about her experience as captured in The Wives: A Memoir. Her book is an intimate and evocative account of the challenges that come with her husband's deployment. Initially resistant to the idea of military life, Gorrindo stuck with her boyfriend, Andrew, when he decided to join the Army. That meant leaving a vibrant life in Manhattan to a rented house near Fort Benning. In time, Andrew left with a special operations unit in Afghanistan. Gorrindo, who holds a master's degree in journalism and has a background in editing, felt the constraints of her new role. She found military culture to be one of dependency which, along with the oppressive heat of Georgia, the mundane routine of her days, and the abandonment of her professional life in New York City surrounded her in a curtain of isolation. Her company consisted primarily of other military wives, each dealing with the challenges of their husbands' deployments. These women, thrown together by circumstance, navigated a life filled with uncertainty, emotional strain, and the need for resilience. The uncertainty, anxiety, dependency all recalled Simone's childhood, one dominated by her mother's alcoholism. The sense of longing and stability, the desire for connection, pervades her account. Her own background flooded the foreground as she progresses in her pregnancy. Each deployment felt like a betrayal. The adrenaline and purpose that guided Andrew's life were absent in hers. As an Army wife, Simone was expected to be compliant and accommodating. The gulf between her and Andrew widened. Yet, Simone knew her job was to maintain the household and construct a sort of family stability, even as the Army spun plans of its own, of which she was left entirely unaware. When Andrew returned from a deployment, he had changed. But, she had changed also. In detailing her story with courageous candor, Simone Gorrindo gives us a opportunity to talk about the dilemmas and difficulties faced by military spouses. It sheds light on the emotional labor, the sense of isolation, and the resilience required to navigate life in the shadow of military deployment. Through her personal narrative, Gorrindo gives voice to the collective experiences of military wives, arguing for the recognition of their strength and the importance of their own transformations. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

VBC Scuttlebutt is a virtual watering hole where camaraderie and connection flow as freely as laughter and shared stories. Join us to swap stories, good and bad, at home and overseas, old and new. At the VBC, veterans from every era and branch are drawn together by the warm glow of shared purpose. Here are a few of the things we plan to discuss tonight: medical breakthroughs that came from the military: painkillers, antibiotics, blood-clotting, prosthetics, plasma, not to mention TBI and PTSD. Combat veterans and fireworks. What do you do  on July 4th?Says one, "It sounded just like the howitzers from Vietnam.” We remember Nancy Smoyer's beloved brother, 2LT Billy Smoyer, KIA in Vietnam July 28, 1968. We discuss the variety of head covers in Vietnam: boonie cap, baseball hat? Norm Phillips from SCORE talks about mentoring Veteran Entrepreneurs and score.org We follow up with a question posed last week: "were you more or less patriotic after returning from Vietnam?" We also ask about those who served in Bosnia and/or Kosovo in 1994-1999 and beyond. These stories aren't just for veterans; they're for everyone who wants to understand the lives of those who served. Whether you're a veteran seeking camaraderie, a civilian wanting to learn, or simply someone who appreciates the value of service, the VBC welcomes you with open arms. Join us online – become part of their mission to honor stories, build bridges, and ensure that every day is Veterans Day. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

Jack McLean joins us again to talk about his new book, Found: A Veteran Story which tells how he healed from Vietnam. Last year, Jack recounted the history behind his best-selling memoir of 2009, Loon: A Marine Story. Jack served in Vietnam in 1967-68 tour with Charlie Company of the 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division. He survived a lot of combat, including a harrowing three-day fight at LZ Loon near the Laotian border in I Corps. Jack's homecoming was both unique and typical of the Vietnam generation of veterans. On the one hand, he went straight to Harvard University, the first Vietnam veteran to attend. On the other hand, he found it difficult to connect with fellow veterans or with anyone who was interested in his service. In 1968, he walked into a VFW hall and received only the chilliest of cold shoulders from the older veterans there. “Nobody offered me a beer,” he writes. “Nobody invited me to join the card game. Nobody waved me over to the pool table. Nobody welcomed me home.” Coupled with survivor guilt and un-processed trauma of combat, such neglect and isolation only fed his sense that something was wrong. Jack found healing as he tracks down fellow Marines and the Gold Star family members who never made it home. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

Brian Ahearn is the son of a Vietnam Marine veteran and author of a memoir, His Story, My Story, Our Story, a heartrending tale that illuminates the stark realities of war, from the battlegrounds of Vietnam to the emotional frontlines at home. Following a Marine veteran, the narrative intricately unravels his grapple with PTSD and the profound ripple effect it has on his family, particularly his son. Crafted from the personal wartime accounts of Brian Ahearn Sr. and juxtaposed with his son's, Brian Ahearn Jr., candid reflections on growing up under the shadow of trauma, this story bridges two generations marked by war's enduring scars. The dual lens through which His Story, My Story, Our Story is told provides a first-hand account of war and its aftershock within a family setting. Through raw storytelling, it seeks to guide Marines in evading service-related pitfalls, fortify understanding between Marine families, and mend the delicate fabric of father-son relationships. Addressing the often unspoken emotional challenges faced by military families, this profound and insightful work serves as a healing blueprint for those navigating the intricate dance of love, duty, trauma and legacy, standing as a beacon of hope and resilience. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

We welcome husband and wife duo, Randy and Jackie Kluj, who share their extraordinary journeys from Army helicopter cockpits to their work with  Creek and Timber Legacy nonprofit. The Klujs bring a unique perspective on service, resilience, and the healing power of nature. Randy Kluj, a native of northern Maine, grew up with a profound love for the outdoors, spending his childhood hunting, fishing, and exploring the wilderness. His passion for aviation led him to Norwich University, and upon graduation, he joined the U.S. Army to pursue flight school. Randy's military career saw him piloting the AH-64D Apache Longbow. Over a decade of service, Randy distinguished himself as an instructor pilot and completed multiple deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Today, Randy continues to fly as a civilian medevac pilot in Western Pennsylvania, where he lives with Jackie. Jackie Bechdel Kluj's roots are firmly planted in western Pennsylvania. She enlisted in the Army Reserves through ROTC in 2001. By 2003, she had earned her commission as a 2LT and was on her way to flight school at Fort Rucker, Alabama. Graduating with honors in 2005, Jackie specialized in flying the UH-60 Black Hawk. Her career highlights include serving as a platoon leader and battle captain during her deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, KFOR8 in Kosovo. Jackie's leadership and innovative training exercises were recognized in the Army Times, showcasing her dedication and skill. She was honorably discharged in 2011, but her commitment to service never wavered. In 2019, Randy and Jackie channeled their shared love for the outdoors and their dedication to helping others into founding Creek and Timber Legacy. This nonprofit organization aims to enrich the lives of veterans, first responders, and children with serious illnesses through immersive outdoor experiences. By partnering with various organizations and individuals, Creek and Timber Legacy provides hunting, firearm therapy, and outdoor learning opportunities, promoting emotional well-being and a renewed sense of energy. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #headlines #news #oralhistory #militaryhistory #roundtable #navy #army #airforce #marinecorps #marines #military #coastguard #veteran #veterans #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #nonprofit #501c3 #veterans #veteran #vet #militaryhistory #usarmy #army #vietnam #usnavy #navy #pilot #airforce #veteranowned #coastguard #aviators #militaryveterans #Iraq #vietnamveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteranshistoryproject #veteranstravel #veteranstrips #veteranshistoricaltours #veteransoralhistory #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #airforce #vietnamwar #veteraninterview

VBC Scuttlebutt is a virtual watering hole where camaraderie and connection flow as freely as laughter and shared stories. Join us to swap stories, good and bad, at home and overseas, old and new. At the VBC, veterans from every era and branch are drawn together by the warm glow of shared purpose. The stories bridge the gap and the years with veterans from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, late Cold War, Iraq and Afghanistan, and other eras and deployments. Non-veterans also join the circle, eager to understand, to listen, to learn. They ask questions with genuine respect and a desire to honor the sacrifices made. This intergenerational dialogue, forged in the crucible of shared experience, builds bridges of empathy and understanding. These stories aren't just for veterans; they're for everyone who wants to understand the lives of those who served. Whether you're a veteran seeking camaraderie, a civilian wanting to learn, or simply someone who appreciates the value of service, the VBC welcomes you with open arms. Join us online – become part of their mission to honor stories, build bridges, and ensure that every day is Veterans Day. Special Guests: Jon Molik from the Headlines and History Podcast and Clint Jordan from Mil-Estate Planning. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour

We mark Memorial Day with the  PFC Lawrence Gordon Foundation's Jed Henry (https://www.pfclawrencegordonfoundati...) who, along with Operation Benjamin (https://www.operationbenjamin.org/nat..., recently recovered the remains of 1st Lt. Nathan Baskind, who was killed in Normandy near Utah Beach in 1944. In June 1944, Baskind was assigned to Company C, 899th Tank Destroyer Battalion, as a platoon commander of four M-10 tank destroyers. According to historical war records, 1st Lt. Baskind and another man from his company were scouting ahead of their tank destroyers when enemy forces descended upon them in an ambush. The other soldier, heavily wounded, escaped the firefight and made his way back to the main U.S. force, believing Baskind was killed in the attack. Several attempts were made to retrieve Baskind's body from the ambush point, but they could not locate his remains. Following the end of the war, the American Graves Registration Command (AGRC) was tasked with investigating and recovering missing American personnel in Europe. Investigators discovered a death and burial report for 1st Lt. Baskind among the foreign records recovered from the Germans, evidently filed after the war on May 29, 1945, in Meiningen, Germany. The record revealed 1st Lt. Baskind was captured and later died at a hospital for German air force personnel near Cherbourg on June 23, 1944. German forces then buried him in the military cemetery in the city. In early 1948, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) sent the U.S. Army one of 1st Lt. Baskind's identification tags. It is believed the German government likely submitted the tag to the ICRC, along with a death and burial report, following the war. In November 1957, the Volksbund, the German War Grave Commission, contacted the U.S. Army regarding 1st Lt. Baskind. While disinterring a mass grave of what were believed to be 24 Germans buried in the Cherbourg cemetery, a Volksbund team discovered one of 1st Lt. Baskind's identification tags and remnants of an American-type shirt with a first lieutenant rank and tank destroyer insignia. The remains in the mass grave were commingled, and the German team was unable to separate them into individual sets. The German investigators therefore placed the remains in seven burial pouches and then re-interred them in the Marigny German War Cemetery, 40 miles south of Cherbourg. Subsequent attempts to identify the remains of 1st Lt. Baskind by U.S. and German investigators were not successful. In 2023, the Volksbund and other interested private research organizations exhumed the commingled remains from Marigny War Cemetery for analysis. By February 2024, these researchers contacted DPAA to inform the agency that 1st Lt. Baskind's remains had been analyzed by a private U.S. laboratory and sought DPAA's concurrence. To verify Baskind's remains, scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System reviewed the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), Y chromosome DNA (Y-STR), and autosomal DNA (auSTR) analysis previously performed. 1st Lt. Baskind's name is recorded on the Walls of the Missing at Normandy American Cemetery, an American Battle Monuments Commission site in Colleville-sur-Mer, France, along with the others still missing from World War II. A rosette will be placed next to his name to indicate he has been accounted for. We also talk with veterans about whom they remember on Memorial Day. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #memorialday #missinginaction #wwii #greatestgeneration  #happyhour #history #interview #veteran #veterans #veteransbreakfastclub #virtualevents #virtual #zoomevents #liveevents #webinar #militaryhistory #military #army #navy #marinecorps #marines  #coastguard #vbc #nonprofit #501c3  #vet #militaryhistory #usarmy #vietnam #usnavy #pilot #airforce #veteranowned #coastguard #aviators #militaryveterans #Iraq #vietnamveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteranshistoryproject #veteranstravel #veteranstrips #veteranshistoricaltours #veteransoralhistory #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #airforce #vietnamwar #veteraninterview #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #veteraninterview

Marine Stew Blackwell joins us to talk about his new book, Savages: Infantry Culture in the Global War on Terror. In his debut book, Blackwell explores the complex culture, complete with its own value system, of the American warrior serving during the Global War on Terror, known as “GWOT.” The GWOT began after the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States and includes the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq that followed. “My hope is to immerse the reader in a vastly different society that values hardship, suffering, and deep, life-altering personal development over comfort and self-preservation,” said Blackwell, who served in the Marine Corps for 9 years and deployed 6 times to Afghanistan, Yemen, Guantanamo Bay, and with multiple Marine Expeditionary Units. “Understanding infantry culture, and its values, is the key to establishing our legacy during the War on Terror as men who dared for more out of life. We sought challenge and adventure to gain critical knowledge of ourselves and became better because of it.” “In his book, Savages: Infantry Culture in the Global War on Terror, ST pulls the curtain back to give readers an uncensored, no-holds-barred depiction of the life of a GWOT infantryman,” said Chris Schafer, CEO at Tactical 16 Publishing. “His story is one that is sure to change your way of thinking and understanding of true American warriors and why this unique culture is critical to our country's survival.” We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #militaryhistory #veteran #interview #veterans #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history  #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast  #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911 #happyhour  

“We had Japanese faces but American hearts.”  So says our special guest Yoshio Nakamura, a Japanese-American born in California. Yoshio experienced first-hand the upheaval of World War II when Japanese-Americans were classified as enemy aliens.  He endured internment at Tulare Racetrack and Gila River Camp, facing humiliation and loss of freedom. Despite the injustice, he demonstrated loyalty to the U.S. by joining the Army, serving in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. Nakamura participated in key battles in Europe, contributing to the unit's status as the most decorated in U.S. military history.  After the war, he pursued education and became an art teacher. Despite hardships, Nakamura maintains a positive outlook on life. Also joining us is Dr. Mitchell T. Maki is the President and CEO of the Go For Broke National Education Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the legacy and lessons of the Nisei (a person born in the US whose parents were immigrants from Japan) World War II veterans.  The mission of GO FOR BROKE is to educate and inspire character and equality through the virtue and valor of our World War II American veterans of Japanese ancestry. Dr. Maki is also the lead author of the award-winning book, Achieving the Impossible Dream: How Japanese Americans Obtained Redress, a detailed case study of the 1988 Civil Liberties Act.  Nearly fifty years after being incarcerated by their own government, Japanese American concentration camp survivors succeeded in obtaining redress for the personal humiliation, family dislocation, and economic ruin caused by their ordeal.  An inspiring story of wrongs made right as well as a practical guide to getting legislation through Congress, Achieving the Impossible Dream documents the redress movement from its earliest roots during World War II, the formal introduction of the idea in the 1970s, the Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians, the judicial battles during the 1980s, and the lobbying of the legislative and executive branches in the 1980s and 1990s.  In 2000, the book received the Gustavus Myers Outstanding Book Award which is given to books addressing bigotry and human rights in North America. Dr. Maki has held the positions of acting Provost and Vice president of Academic Affairs, Vice Provost of Student Academic Success, dean of the Colleges of Professional Studies and Health and Human Services (CSUDH), acting dean of the College of Health and Human Services at CSU Los Angeles and assistant professor in the Department of Social Welfare at UCLA.  As acting Provost, Dr. Maki provided academic and strategic leadership for CSUDH's five academic colleges which served over fifteen thousand students. Go For Broke – https://goforbroke.org/ Achieving the Impossible Dream – https://bit.ly/3H36KIm Thank you to Tobacco Free Adagio Health and UPMC for Life for sponsoring this event! #veteraninterview #greatestgeneration #wwii #happyhour #history #interview #veteran #veterans #veteransbreakfastclub #virtualevents #virtual #zoomevents #liveevents #webinar #militaryhistory #military #army #navy #marinecorps #marines  #coastguard #vbc #nonprofit #501c3  #vet #militaryhistory #usarmy #vietnam #usnavy #pilot #airforce #veteranowned #coastguard #aviators #militaryveterans #Iraq #vietnamveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteranshistoryproject #veteranstravel #veteranstrips #veteranshistoricaltours #veteransoralhistory #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #airforce #vietnamwar #veteraninterview #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory

We have another fast-moving, free-for-all Open Conversation with the Veterans Breakfast Club. This is National Nurses Week, in honor of Florence Nightengale's birthday on May 12, so we discuss military nursing and ask our nurses about their service. We also ask veterans who were treated--and perhaps lives were saved--by nurses in battle zones around the world.    Nancy Smoyer asks what Vietnam War movies are the best and worthy of screening for a course on the war. We'll discuss the relative merits of Hamburger Hilll, Coming Home, We Were Soldiers, and The Ugly American.  Vietnam Marine veteran Ron Farina wonders what movies and books fed his generation's ideas of war before they headed off to Southeast Asia to liberate the land from Communism. Marilyn Pignataro from PALS Skyhope non-profit will tell us about her remarkable organization, which uses a network of planes and pilots to provide free medical and compassion flights for patients and veterans. Nadia Rupniak's father was a hero. But she never knew his story until after he was gone. She'll talk about Marcin Rupniak's service in World War II, which included the Polish  War Order of Virtuti Militari. The award is Poland's highest military decoration for heroism and courage in the face of the enemy at war. U.S. Air Force Vietnam veteran Bob Connor gives us an update to his long work identifying and recovering Vietnamese and American remains from the Vietnam War. He has news about a probably identification and US POW MIA remains, including a witness who saw the burial of a POW who died after a forced march. Bob works with the Vietnamese government and US Department of Defense Prisoner of War Accounting Agency to search for more than 1,200 US service members who are still missing from the Vietnam War. Thank you to our sponsors Tobacco Free Adagio Health and UPMC for Life

Vietnam Veteran Chuck Theusch discusses his transformative journey from the battlegrounds of Vietnam to the peaceful mission of building libraries in Vietnam and Cambodia. In 1969-70, Chuck served in the 4/3 Infantry, 11th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division in Vietnam. Like many others, he experienced the harsh realities of combat, witnessing the devastation of war and its profound impact on both the land and its people. These experiences left an indelible mark on him. After his military service concluded, Theusch returned to civilian life in Wisconsin. However, the memories of Vietnam continued to weigh heavily on him. In 1999, after a return trip to Vietnam, he founded the Children's Library International. Theusch recognized the power of education in shaping the future of nations recovering from conflict. He understood that libraries could serve as beacons of hope, offering access to knowledge and fostering a love for learning among children and communities. With this vision in mind, he set out to build libraries in Vietnam and Cambodia, countries deeply scarred by war but resilient in their pursuit of progress. The task was daunting, fraught with logistical challenges and bureaucratic hurdles. Yet, Theusch remained undeterred and gradually turned his vision into reality, one library at a time. The impact of Theusch's work extended far beyond the mere construction of physical structures. Each library became a symbol of reconciliation, bridging divides and fostering understanding between former adversaries. By providing access to books and educational resources, these libraries empowered children and communities to break the cycle of poverty and ignorance. In Vietnam, Theusch's efforts were met with gratitude and appreciation from local communities. The libraries he built became cherished landmarks, offering a safe haven for children to explore the world of literature and expand their horizons. In Cambodia, a nation still grappling with the legacy of genocide, his work brought hope to marginalized communities, offering a pathway to a brighter future. Theusch's journey is a testament to the transformative power of service and compassion. Thank you to Tobacco Free Adagio Health and UPMC for Life for sponsoring this event.

A large group of Veterans gathered to discuss their military service for a Veterans Breakfast Club Open Conversation. We talked about the 4/9 24th Infantry Division "Manchus," the experience of PTSD, and the use of buttons vs. brass zippers on Army fatigues. But the most robust, disturbing, and important aspect of the conversation was a discussion of drug use among US Servicemembers during the Vietnam War, especially 1970-1973.  During the Vietnam War, drug use was much more prevalent than in previous wars. Soldiers consumed a variety of substances, including marijuana, psychedelics like LSD, mescaline, and psilocybin mushrooms, as well as hard drugs such as cocaine and heroin. The military also issued stimulants like amphetamines to enhance endurance during missions and sedatives to manage anxiety and prevent mental breakdowns, which were notably successful with a low rate of mental breakdowns compared to previous conflicts. The ease of access to drugs, breakdown in morale, and influence of counterculture back home contributed to widespread drug use among troops. Marijuana was initially tolerated and easily obtained from local villages. However, media attention following reports like John Steinbeck IV's article led to crackdowns by the military, pushing many soldiers towards heroin, which became more available due to its odorless nature and influx from neighboring countries like Cambodia. Most soldiers used drugs casually as a means of escape from the harsh realities of war rather than being addicted. Efforts to curb drug use included initiatives like "Operation Golden Flow," which required servicemen to undergo drug testing before returning home. Contrary to fears of widespread addiction post-service, rates of drug use and addiction among veterans returned to pre-war levels. The role of drugs in the brutality witnessed in Vietnam remains debated. Overall, the Vietnam War reflected broader societal shifts in drug culture during the late 1960s and early 1970s. #happyhour #history #interview #veteran #veterans #veteransbreakfastclub #virtualevents #virtual #zoomevents #liveevents #webinar #militaryhistory #military #army #navy #marinecorps #marines  #coastguard #vbc #nonprofit #501c3  #vet #militaryhistory #usarmy #vietnam #usnavy #pilot #airforce #veteranowned #coastguard #aviators #militaryveterans #Iraq #vietnamveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteranshistoryproject #veteranstravel #veteranstrips #veteranshistoricaltours #veteransoralhistory #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #airforce #vietnamwar #veteraninterview#podcast #zoom #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #oralhistory #militaryhistory #roundtable #navy #army #airforce #marinecorps #marines #military #coastguard #veteran #veterans #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #nonprofit #501c3    

Beth Reuschel is a professional military records researcher who helps families discover their legacies of service. She conducts research for people and also coaches them to do their own detective work. Through her expertise and guidance, dozens of people have tracked down service records of veteran parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, as well as brothers and sisters. Beth joins The Scuttlebutt to give us “Military Records Research 101” briefing. She'll offer tips and tricks to guide family history seekers through their own research journeys. If you've ever been curious about your veteran ancestors or family members, you'll want to join us to talk with Beth and ask questions about how to start or get past the obstacles in your way. Beth's own path to archives began with a search for her grandfather, Jack Perz, who died before Beth was born. An airman in Europe, Jack spoke little of the war. He even threw away his uniform in 1945. It was a black hole in her family history. By asking questions and digging into archives, she discovered a picture of his crew, his original Certificate of Discharge (DD-214), his ribbon bar, even his Individual Flight Record. She eventually traced him a B-24 tailgun position in the 766th squadron, the 461st Bomb Group, 15th Army Air Force in Italy. Researching his unit both online and at the National Archives II, she was able to compile a complete list of every single combat mission he flew—all 36 of them– including the target, mission number, accuracy rating, and, for some, the number of the aircraft the crew flew that day. With a little more work, Beth then discovered the Holy Grail for any military researcher: the Official Military Personnel File (OMPF). The OMPF is the official administrative records of a service member's military career. It tracks where they trained, what they qualified to do, where they went, how they performed, what trouble they got into, and most other highlights and lowlights along the way. She requested Jack Perz's OMPF through the National Archives website. She was prepared to be disappointed. Up to 80% of all Army OMPFs were destroyed in the NPRC 1973 fire. It turned out, Beth's grandfather's records were scorched, to be sure, but not totally destroyed. She received 60 pages of his file. And the stories she learned about her grandfather's service provided her relatives, including her grandmother, a source of pride and love for a long lost family member. This first experience taught Beth her biggest lesson in military records research: Don't give up. There will be obstacles and seeming dead-ends. They can seem insurmountable. But the paths to discovery are many, and there's almost always a workaround. Even brick walls can be climbed. Join us to share your questions and our research story! And learn more about Beth's work at reuschelresearch.com. Thank you to Tobacco Free Adagio Health and UPMC for Life for sponsoring this event! #podcast #zoom #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #oralhistory #militaryhistory #roundtable #navy #army #airforce #marinecorps #marines #military #coastguard #veteran #veterans #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #nonprofit #501c3  

In November and December last year, 21 of us—including five veterans who had served in-country during the war—traveled to Vietnam, from Hanoi and Halong Bay in the North to Saigon and the Mekong Delta in the South. Vietnam is a beautiful and often bewildering place, ancient in history and now yoked to American culture and memory. The country presents to the traveler more than can be absorbed. Tonight, we'll talk with those who traveled with us and gather their impressions of the country, the people, and what they've learned from the trip. One of our travelers was Vietnam veteran Jerry Augustine who remembers almost every aspect of his harrowing service. Jerry captured his story in his memoir, Vietnam Beyond. Jerry served in 1966-1967 with B Company, 3rd Battalion,  21st Infantry Regiment, 196th Light Infantry Brigade in Vietnam. We'll hear from Jerry what he thought of Vietnam and how it may have changed his view and understanding of his service. Thank you to Tobacco Free Adagio Health and UPMC for Life for sponsoring this event!