Vietnam Veteran News

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps COL Jay R. Vargas.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3014 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps COL Jay R. Vargas. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

COL Jay R. Vargas, a decorated U.S. Marine Corps officer, earned the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War. As a Marine Corps captain in 1968, Vargas led Company G, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 9th Marine Regiment during the intense Battle of Dai Do. His bravery, leadership, and unwavering commitment to his men were pivotal in securing victory against relentless North Vietnamese Army (NVA) forces.

Under heavy enemy fire, Vargas fearlessly advanced, rallying his Marines to push forward. Despite sustaining multiple wounds, he refused medical evacuation, choosing instead to continue leading the attack. Amid fierce combat, he single-handedly rescued several wounded Marines, exposing himself to deadly enemy fire. Vargas personally eliminated numerous NVA soldiers and coordinated devastating counterattacks.

At one critical moment, he carried his severely wounded battalion commander to safety, ensuring the mission’s success. His courage under fire, tactical brilliance, and selfless devotion to his Marines exemplified the highest ideals of the Marine Corps and the United States military.

For his gallantry and intrepidity in the face of overwhelming enemy forces, Vargas was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Richard Nixon. His valor, sacrifice, and leadership continue to inspire generations of Marines.

After his military career, COL Vargas served as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for California, tirelessly advocating for veterans’ rights. His legacy as a Vietnam War hero and dedicated public servant remains an enduring testament to duty, honor, and country.

Listen to Episode 3014 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps COL Jay R. Vargas.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Navy LT Michael E. Thornton.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3013 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Navy LT Michael E. Thornton. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

LT Michael E. Thornton, a U.S. Navy SEAL, earned the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War on October 31, 1972. As part of SEAL Team ONE, Thornton and four others, including Lieutenant Thomas Norris, embarked on a high-risk reconnaissance mission deep in enemy-controlled territory near the Cua Viet River.

After successfully gathering intelligence, the team was ambushed by a large North Vietnamese Army (NVA) force. Under heavy fire, Thornton fought fiercely, eliminating multiple enemy combatants. When a enemy gunshot critically wounded Norris, Thornton sprinted across open terrain, evading relentless fire to rescue him. He carried the unconscious officer over his shoulder, neutralizing additional enemy fighters along the way.

Despite being outnumbered, Thornton refused to leave anyone behind. He retrieved a wounded South Vietnamese teammate and swam both Norris and the ally over two miles to the open sea, where they were eventually rescued. His actions directly saved Norris’ life, making Norris the only Medal of Honor recipient to be rescued by a future recipient.

For his unparalleled bravery, unwavering dedication, and selfless service, LT Michael Thornton was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1973 by President Richard Nixon. His legacy endures as a testament to the valor, resilience, and brotherhood of U.S. Navy SEALs. His courage in the face of overwhelming odds remains an inspiration to warriors and patriots alike, solidifying his place among the greatest American heroes in military history.

Listen to Episode 3013 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Navy LT Michael E. Thornton.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army MAJ James Allen Taylor.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3012 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army MAJ James Allen Taylor. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

James Allen Taylor was born on December 31, 1937 at Arcata, California. He is a retired United States Army officer and a recipient of the United States military’s highest decoration—the Medal of Honor—for his actions in the Vietnam War.

Taylor joined the United States Army at San Francisco, California, in 1956 and was commissioned as an officer in 1965. On November 8, 1967, he was serving as a first lieutenant in Troop B, 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, Americal Division. When his commander was wounded in action, Taylor was ordered into the combat zone to take command and prepare a search-and-destroy mission. During a battle the next day, west of Que Son in the Republic of Vietnam, Taylor repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to rescue crewmen from damaged assault vehicles and personnel carriers. He was subsequently promoted to captain and awarded the Medal of Honor on November 19, 1968.

Taylor reached the rank of major before retiring from the army in 1980. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminology from the University of Tampa.

Listen to Episode 3012 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army MAJ James Allen Taylor.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army CPT Jon E. Swanson.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3011 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army CPT Jon E. Swanson. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

U.S. Army Captain Jon E. Swanson was a courageous helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War, known for his fearless devotion to duty. Serving with the B/1/9^th Cav/1^st Cav Div, CPT Swanson flew OH-6A Cayuse scout helicopters on high-risk reconnaissance missions deep into enemy territory. His bravery and aerial expertise saved countless American lives.

On February 26, 1971, during a critical mission in Cambodia, CPT Swanson and his observer were conducting a dangerous low-level reconnaissance flight when they encountered heavy enemy fire. Without hesitation, he engaged the enemy, marking targets for artillery and airstrikes. Spotting well-concealed North Vietnamese bunkers, he used his helicopter’s grenade launcher to destroy several positions.

Despite intense anti-aircraft fire, CPT Swanson continued his assault, neutralizing enemy threats. While making a final attack run, his helicopter was struck by enemy fire and crashed in the dense jungle. He was declared missing in action until his remains were recovered decades later.

For his extraordinary heroism, CPT Jon E. Swanson was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor on May 1, 2002. His selfless sacrifice and fearless combat actions exemplify the highest traditions of military service. His legacy as a Vietnam War hero endures, reminding future generations of the bravery displayed by those who gave their lives for freedom.

CPT Swanson’s name is etched on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., honoring his ultimate sacrifice. His Medal of Honor citation stands as a testament to his valor, ensuring his story will never be forgotten.

Listen to Episode 3011 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army CPT Jon E. Swanson.

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Barry Rice

Episode 3010 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how the “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day” is  being celebrated at Gallatin, Tennessee at 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 29, 2025.  The featured story appeared in the Portland, Tennessee. The story was titled: 50-year commemoration planned for Sumner’s Vietnam veterans and was submitted by Barry Rice.

Rice began his story with this: To recognize Sumner County’s Vietnam veterans in this last of the 50-year Vietnam War Commemoration Program, a special ceremony will be presented on Saturday, March 29, at 2 p.m.. at the Sumner County Administration Building in Gallatin.

Vietnam veterans – young and old, rich and poor, black and white – were men and women who served America with an unwavering passion. They endured great hardships, were separated from family and friends and experienced the daily terrors of war.

They served honorably, like generations of veterans before them, but, unlike previous wars, most Vietnam veterans returned home to an ungrateful nation. But these extraordinary veterans did come home, and they continue to support each other and all other veterans and continue to contribute to America’s greatness.

Rice ended his story with this: March 29 of each year has been designated by the U.S. Congress as “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day.” Chapter 240, Vietnam Veterans of America and the Associates of Vietnam Veterans are proud to be presenting a Welcome Home Ceremony in the main Council Room at the Sumner County Administration Building, 355 Belvedere, Gallatin, on Saturday, March 29. Refreshments will be available. Special guest speaker will be Jack McCall.

Vietnam veterans will be presented with a 50-year Commemoration Pin. Thanks, as well, to the spouses and families for their sacrifice for they also deserve to know they have earned the nation’s humble thanks.

All are urged to come out to say a simple “Thank you” to Sumner County’s Vietnam veterans and their families.

Listen to Episode 3010 and discover more about how about how the “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day” is  being celebrated at Gallatin, Tennessee.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SMJ Kenneth E. Stumpf.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3009 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SMJ Kenneth E. Stumpf. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

Sergeant Major (Ret.) Kenneth E. Stumpf, a Vietnam War Medal of Honor recipient, displayed unwavering bravery under fire during a harrowing battle on April 25, 1967, near Duc Pho, Vietnam. As a Squad Leader with Company C, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, Stumpf and his men faced withering enemy fire while advancing on a fortified Viet Cong position.

Amid the chaos, three of his soldiers lay wounded and trapped in the open, vulnerable to relentless machine gun fire. Without hesitation, Stumpf charged through a hail of bullets, rescuing each injured comrade one by one. Refusing to retreat, he then led an assault on the enemy bunkers, personally neutralizing three enemy positions with hand grenades and rifle fire. His fearless leadership inspired his men to overtake the enemy and secure victory.

For his extraordinary heroism, selfless sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to duty, Kenneth Stumpf was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Lyndon B. Johnson on September 19, 1968. Stumpf continued his distinguished military career, rising to the rank of Sergeant Major before retiring after 29 years of service.

His legacy lives on as a symbol of courage, honor, and devotion to his fellow soldiers. Stumpf’s actions in Vietnam exemplify the highest ideals of the United States Army and the Medal of Honor ethos—gallantry above and beyond the call of duty.

Listen to Episode 3009 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SMJ Kenneth E. Stumpf.

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Representatives from the four factions of the Vietnam War meet in Paris to sign a peace agreement. (Getty Images)

Episode 3008 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a Fox News story about the end of the Vietnam War. The story is titled Vietnam War formally ends: This Day in History and was submitted by Bradford Betz, a writer for Fox News.

The Fox News article titled “Vietnam War formally ends: This Day in History” highlights the pivotal events that led to the conclusion of the Vietnam War. On January 27, 1973, the United States, South Vietnam, North Vietnam, and the Viet Cong signed the Paris Peace Accords, officially titled “An Agreement Ending the War and Restoring Peace in Vietnam.” This landmark treaty marked the cessation of direct U.S. military involvement and aimed to establish peace in the region. ​Fox News+1Fox News+1

The Paris Peace Accords stipulated several key provisions: a cease-fire throughout Vietnam, the withdrawal of U.S. forces, the release of prisoners of war, and the establishment of a political framework for South Vietnam’s future. Despite these agreements, conflicts between North and South Vietnam persisted.​

The culmination of these hostilities occurred on April 30, 1975, with the Fall of Saigon. North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam, leading to the unconditional surrender of South Vietnamese President Dương Văn Minh. This event effectively ended the Vietnam War and paved the way for the reunification of Vietnam under communist control. ​Wikipedia

In recognition of the sacrifices made during the conflict, National Vietnam War Veterans Day is observed annually on March 29. This day honors the service of Vietnam veterans and coincides with the 1973 departure of the last U.S. combat troops from Vietnam. Communities across the United States, such as Big Rapids, Michigan, hold ceremonies to commemorate and express gratitude to those who served. ​Big Rapids Pioneer

The Vietnam War’s conclusion had profound implications, influencing U.S. foreign policy and leaving a lasting impact on veterans and civilians. The Paris Peace Accords and the subsequent Fall of Saigon remain significant historical events, symbolizing the end of a tumultuous era in both American and Vietnamese history.

Listen to Episode 3008 and discover more about how the Vietnam War ended.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SP4 Robert F. Stryker.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3007 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SP4 Robert F. Stryker. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

In the dense, enemy-infested jungles of Vietnam, U.S. Army Specialist Four (SP4) Robert F. Stryker displayed extraordinary bravery that would etch his name in history. Born on November 9, 1944, in Auburn, New York, Stryker was just 22 years old when he made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his country.

Assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Stryker was on a dangerous reconnaissance mission on November 7, 1967, in Binh Phuoc Province, Vietnam. As his patrol moved through treacherous terrain, they encountered a heavily fortified enemy bunker complex. Suddenly, the area erupted in gunfire as Viet Cong forces ambushed the American soldiers.

Amidst the chaos, Stryker fearlessly advanced, providing covering fire to protect his comrades. As he maneuvered through the battlefield, an enemy Claymore mine was triggered, launching a deadly barrage of shrapnel. With no hesitation, SP4 Stryker threw himself onto the explosive device, absorbing the full impact and saving the lives of his fellow soldiers.

His selfless heroism and supreme sacrifice did not go unnoticed. On April 1, 1969, Robert F. Stryker was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration for valor. His courage, gallantry, and devotion to duty epitomized the finest traditions of the U.S. Army and set an enduring example of selfless service.

Today, Stryker’s legacy lives on. His name is enshrined on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, and his hometown of Auburn, New York, honors him as a true American hero. Additionally, the M1126 Stryker Combat Vehicle, a versatile armored fighting vehicle used by the U.S. Army, bears his name, ensuring that his bravery and sacrifice are never forgotten.

Robert F. Stryker’s story is one of valor, sacrifice, and patriotism—a reminder of the incredible bravery displayed by soldiers in the Vietnam War and throughout U.S. military history.

Listen to Episode 3007 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SP4 Robert F. Stryker.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SGT Mitchell W. Stout.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3006 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SGT Mitchell W. Stout. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and the National Dusters, Quads and Searchlights Association  

U.S. Army Sergeant Mitchell W. Stout was a true hero of the Vietnam War, earning the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery. Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1950, Stout enlisted in the Army and served as an artilleryman with Battery C, 1st Battalion, 44th Artillery Regiment, in Quang Tri Province, South Vietnam.

On March 12, 1970, while manning a bunker with his fellow soldiers, Stout faced an attack by North Vietnamese forces. As enemy grenades rained down, one explosive device landed inside the bunker. Without hesitation, Stout made the ultimate sacrifice—he grabbed the grenade and pressed it to his body, shielding his comrades from the blast. His selfless act saved the lives of those around him, but he succumbed to the explosion’s force.

For his extraordinary gallantry and unwavering courage in the face of certain death, Sergeant Stout was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His citation commended his heroism, highlighting his willingness to lay down his life to protect his fellow soldiers. Stout remains the only U.S. Army artilleryman to receive the Medal of Honor during the Vietnam War.

His legacy lives on in the hearts of his comrades, his family, and all who honor the sacrifices of America’s military heroes. His name is etched on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., ensuring that future generations remember his bravery. Sergeant Mitchell W. Stout epitomized the highest ideals of courage, selflessness, and duty—true hallmarks of a Medal of Honor recipient.

Listen to Episode 3006 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SGT Mitchell W. Stout.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SGT Lester R. Stone Jr.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3005 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SGT Lester R. Stone Jr.. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

U.S. Army Sergeant Lester R. Stone Jr. was a true hero of the Vietnam War, posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery. Born in Michigan, Stone enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as a squad leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 11th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. His courage and leadership would be forever immortalized on March 3, 1969, near Landing Zone Liz in Quang Ngai Province, South Vietnam.

That day, SGT Stone and his squad were on a combat patrol when they were ambushed by a heavily armed enemy force. With relentless gunfire raining down, Stone boldly charged into enemy fire, directing his men and providing covering fire to reposition them. He repeatedly braved the hail of bullets, ensuring his soldiers could find cover and return fire effectively.

Despite suffering multiple wounds, Stone refused to retreat. He continued his valiant defense, hurling grenades and engaging the enemy at close range. In his final act of courage, he charged forward, single-handedly disrupting the enemy’s advance before succumbing to his injuries. His selfless actions saved the lives of many in his unit.

For his indomitable spirit, gallantry, and ultimate sacrifice, SGT Lester R. Stone Jr. was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor on April 7, 1971. His name is etched in history, a symbol of the unwavering courage and heroism displayed by American soldiers during the Vietnam War.

Listen to Episode 3005 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SGT Lester R. Stone Jr.