Vietnam Remembered

Hardly a day goes by that I don't think about Vietnam. Perhaps because it defined the remainder of my life and closed the door of life for so many. Vietnam has long since passed in the memories of most, eclipsed by time and the on-going wars in Iraq and Afghanistan where our brave young men and women seek to carry out the policies of the United States government and protect America into the future.

"We Were Soldiers Once and Young" is a book that describes the battle in the Ia Drang Valley, Vietnam fought in 1965. It is a true story of heroism which vividly details what combat demands and the sacrifices that were made, but perhaps more descriptive is the title. We call on our young men and women who serve to do much and the least we can do is support them when they need our encouragement and support. I was twenty-two years old as was the average age of those that were called by America. I'm older now, but that experience served to steel in me the resolve to always remember the sacrifice that is undertaken by a few to support the many.

After leaving the service, I became a teacher for high school students of US History. I've since retired from that pursuit, but know that as spring approaches many students will reach that part of their curriculum that deals with the Vietnam War. I recently discovered a tribute that was produced by the Vietnam Veterans of America. While this portrays scenes from Vietnam, it is applicable to all wars. I hope many, particularly students will view this tribute. The pictures and music convey much. It is at

http://www.operationmom.org/ToOurParents.html.