Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Australian Vietnamese Refugees

Episode 3344 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a a letter to the editor that expresses Vietnamese refugees great gratitude to Australian Vietnam Veterans. The letter is titled: A debt of gratitude to Australia’s Vietnam veterans. It appeared on the Illawarra Flame website and was submitted by Teresa Thuy Tran, OAM.

Tran reported that The 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, fought on 18 August 1966, provides a solemn opportunity to remember the courage, sacrifice and service of the Australians who served in the Vietnam War. Eighteen young Australians were killed and 24 were wounded in the battle, but their sacrifice represents only part of the extraordinary story of the Australian Vietnam veteran generation.

For many Vietnamese Australians, the service of Australian soldiers carries an especially profound meaning. They stood alongside the people of South Vietnam, helping defend a nation and a people who cherished freedom, democracy and independence. Their service created memories that remain deeply important to Vietnamese refugees and their descendants.

After the fall of South Vietnam in 1975, thousands of South Vietnamese military officers were imprisoned in communist re-education camps, while millions of Vietnamese people eventually fled their homeland. The Vietnamese Boat People endured dangerous journeys marked by starvation, piracy, imprisonment and death in search of freedom and a better future.

These experiences help explain why Vietnamese Australians continue to express such deep gratitude to Australian Vietnam veterans. They remember the young Australians who traveled thousands of miles from home, endured combat and hardship, and often returned carrying physical and emotional scars. Too many veterans came home without receiving the respect, understanding and gratitude they deserved.

The Battle of Long Tan, Vietnam veterans, Australian military history and the legacy of the Vietnam War remain powerful reminders of courage and sacrifice. We must also remember the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) soldiers who fought and died defending their homeland.

The message is clear: Vietnam veterans must never be forgotten. Their courage belongs not only to history but to future generations. We owe it to our children and grandchildren to preserve their stories and honor the sacrifices made for freedom, democracy, dignity and hope.

To every Australian Vietnam veteran: we remember you, we honor you, and we thank you.

Lest we forget.

Contact the editor.

Listen to episode 3344 and discover more about the letter to the editor that expresses Vietnamese refugees great gratitude to Australian Vietnam Veteranscccccccc

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

U.S. Navy Admiral George Morrision and his son rocker Jim Morrison.

Episode 3343 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Vietnam Vet Navy Admiral George Morrison and his son Jim Morrison. The featured story is titled: Jim Morrison Claimed His Parents Were Dead — But His Father May Have Helped Launch the Vietnam War 62 Years Ago This Week. It appeared on the Parade website and was submitted by Deborah Cruz, Lifestyle Writer, Parade.

Cruz reported that The story of Jim Morrison and his father, U.S. Navy Admiral George Morrison, reveals one of the most extraordinary family conflicts connected to the Vietnam War. While Jim Morrison became the legendary voice of a generation struggling with the horrors of war, his father was a decorated American military commander whose career placed him at the center of the Gulf of Tonkin Incident.

George Morrison was a true American war hero. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1941, witnessed the attack on Pearl Harbor, earned his Wings of Gold, and flew combat missions during World War II. During the Korean War, he earned the Bronze Star for combat operations. In 1964, he commanded American naval forces during the Gulf of Tonkin events that helped lead to the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution and the Vietnam War.

The historical controversy surrounding the second alleged attack has remained a major part of Vietnam War history, particularly after declassified documents indicated that the August 4 attack did not occur as originally reported.

Meanwhile, his son Jim became one of the most influential voices of the 1960s counterculture and anti-war movement. Through songs such as “The End,” Jim Morrison captured the fear, destruction, and emotional turmoil associated with the Vietnam era.

Yet this story should never overshadow the greatness of the Vietnam Veteran Generation. Hundreds of thousands of American men and women served their country during the Vietnam War, facing combat, sacrifice, hardship, and often an ungrateful reception when they returned home. Our Vietnam Veterans answered the call of duty, and their courage, loyalty, sacrifice, and service deserve enduring respect and gratitude.

George Morrison later helped Vietnamese refugees in Guam, assisting nearly 100,000 displaced people. Before his death in 2008, he finally offered a touching reflection about his son: “He was just somebody you would like to know.”

The Morrison story is filled with tragedy, controversy, sacrifice, and separation—but above all, it reminds us that the Vietnam War generation and its veterans deserve to be remembered, honored, and never forgotten.

Listen to episode 3343 and discover more about Vietnam Vet Navy Admiral George Morrison and his son Jim Morrison.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

The Moving Wall

Episode 3342 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the appearance of The Moving Wall at Newcastle, WY. The featured story is titled: Moving Wall coming to Newcastle. It appeared on the Buffalo Bulletin website and was submitted by Alexis Barker, News Letter Journal Via Wyoming News Exchange.

Barker reported that The Moving Wall is coming to Newcastle, Wyoming, Aug. 13-17, offering a powerful opportunity to honor the greatness, courage, service, and sacrifice of Vietnam Veterans. This traveling, half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will stand at the corner of U.S. Highways 16 and 85, adjacent to Pinnacle Bank. The free memorial display will remain open 24 hours a day, allowing veterans, families, residents, and visitors to pay their respects at their own pace.

Stretching 253 feet and featuring more than 58,000 names of American service members killed or missing in action during the Vietnam War, The Moving Wall serves as a solemn reminder of the extraordinary price paid by America’s military heroes. It also provides an important opportunity to recognize Vietnam veterans, whose bravery and dedication deserve lasting appreciation and respect.

Brought to Weston County by the Newcastle Wyoming Veterans Memorial Committee during Sturgis Motorcycle Rally week, the event is designed to honor Vietnam veterans while introducing thousands of visitors to Newcastle and supporting plans for a permanent veterans memorial.

Special events include an opening ceremony featuring retired Air Force Col. Chris “Switch” Roness, a free screening of the Wyoming PBS documentary “Home from the Vietnam War,” and a closing ceremony featuring retired Army Capt. and Vietnam veteran John O’Connell, a decorated combat pilot who flew more than 800 medical evacuation missions.

The Newcastle community invites everyone to visit The Moving Wall, honor Vietnam Veterans, remember America’s fallen heroes, and reflect on their sacrifice. Visitors may also create name rubbings from the memorial.

This historic event is more than a tribute—it is a celebration of Vietnam veteran courage, military service, American heroes, patriotism, remembrance, sacrifice, and freedom. Newcastle welcomes all who wish to stand together and say thank you to our Vietnam Veterans.

Listen to episode 3342 and discover more about the appearance of The Moving Wall at Newcastle, WY.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

The Wall That Heals

Episode 3341 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the appearance of The Wall That Heals at White Bear, MN. The featured story is titled: “The Wall That Heals” honors Vietnam War veterans around the country. It appeared on the KIMT website and was submitted by Joe Van Ryn.

Van Ryn reported that The Wall That Heals came to White Bear Township, Minnesota — Honoring Vietnam Veterans and the Fallen

The Wall That Heals brought a powerful piece of American history to White Bear Township, Minnesota, giving families, veterans, and community members an opportunity to honor the brave men and women who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War.

This three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. carries the names of more than 58,000 American service members who made the ultimate sacrifice. For many visitors, seeing the names in their own community created an emotional opportunity for remembrance, reflection, healing, and patriotism.

Among those paying tribute was Sue Prachar, who came to find the name of her brother, Gerald Riedlberger, on the Wall. Her story is a heartbreaking reminder that behind every name is a family, a life, and a story that must never be forgotten. Prachar expressed the pride her family continues to have in her brother and his honorable service.

Vietnam Veteran Dave Britz also visited the memorial to remember friends whose names are etched on the Wall, as well as fellow veterans who later died from Agent Orange exposure. Britz described the importance of welcoming home Vietnam veterans and recognizing the sacrifices made by an entire generation.

The Wall That Heals has traveled to hundreds of communities, bringing the Vietnam Veterans Memorial experience directly to American communities and allowing people to spend meaningful time remembering their loved ones.

This video is a tribute to Vietnam veterans, fallen Vietnam War heroes, Gold Star families, military families, American service members, and the Vietnam Veteran Generation.

We remember. We honor. We will never forget.

Listen to episode 3341 and discover more about the appearance of The Wall That Heals at White Bear, MN.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Air Force Vietnam Vet COL Rich Buickerood

Episode 3340 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Air Force Vietnam Vet COL Rich Buickerood. The featured story is titled: Voices of Veterans: Colonel Rich Buickerood Shares His Story of Service in the United States Air Force. It appeared on the Gilmer Mirror website and was submitted by the editor.

The editor reported that Colonel Rich Buickerood’s remarkable story is a powerful reminder of the courage, dedication, sacrifice, and greatness of America’s Vietnam Veterans. Featured in the Texas Veterans Land Board’s Voices of Veterans Oral History Program, Buickerood shares the story of his journey from a New Jersey college student to a United States Air Force pilot who served during the Vietnam War.

The first member of his family to attend college, Buickerood enrolled at Rutgers University and joined Air Force ROTC almost by chance. What began as an elective ultimately became a lifelong commitment to serving his country. Commissioned in 1965, he entered the demanding world of Air Force pilot training at Laughlin Air Force Base in Texas, where many aspiring pilots faced intense challenges and some were forced to wash out.

As the Vietnam War escalated, Buickerood found himself heading to Southeast Asia. Like many young Vietnam Veterans, he approached his mission with confidence, determination, and a deep sense of duty and patriotism. He described his generation as young and confident, believing they were prepared to do the job their country had asked them to do.

One of the most dramatic moments of Colonel Buickerood’s Vietnam service came on Easter Sunday, 1968, near Saigon. His unit was called to support American forces under attack. A rescue helicopter sent to evacuate the troops was shot down, placing even more lives in danger. Buickerood and his fellow airmen provided critical air support, dropping bombs and conducting strafing runs while remaining over the target until they were nearly out of fuel.

Their courageous actions helped save numerous American lives, earning Buickerood his first Distinguished Flying Cross.

Colonel Rich Buickerood’s story represents the extraordinary bravery of the Vietnam Veteran generation. These American heroes answered their nation’s call, faced unimaginable danger, and served with honor, courage, and sacrifice. Their legacy deserves our deepest respect, gratitude, and remembrance. We salute Colonel Buickerood and every Vietnam Veteran who served America during the Vietnam War.

Listen to episode 3340 and discover more about the career of Air Force Vietnam Vet COL Rich Buickerood.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

The names of Western New Yorkers who died fighting in the Vietnam War are fading on the memorial at the Erie County Naval and Military Park, so a group of volunteers is working on restoring them.

Episode 3339 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about what the patriots in Buffalo, NY are doing to honor their Vietnam Veterans. The featured story is titled: ‘We can’t allow them to be forgotten’: Public repainting names on WNY Vietnam Memorial. It appeared on the WKBW website and was submitted by Maki Becker..

Becker reported that in Buffalo, New York, a group of dedicated volunteers is making sure the names of Vietnam Veterans who gave their lives for their country will never be forgotten. At the Erie County Naval and Military Park, the names of Western New York service members who died during the Vietnam War have been fading after more than 40 years of exposure to Buffalo’s harsh weather. Now, caring Americans are stepping forward to restore this important Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

This powerful restoration effort is more than repainting names on a wall—it is an act of patriotism, respect, remembrance, and gratitude for the brave men who served during the Vietnam War. These Vietnam Veterans answered their nation’s call during one of the most difficult periods in American history. Their courage, sacrifice, dedication, and service represent the greatness of the Vietnam Veteran generation.

Dan Frontera, an Iraq War veteran and member of the Iraq Afghanistan Memorial Committee, noticed the fading names during a Memorial Day visit. He and fellow volunteers decided they could not stand by and allow these heroes to disappear from public memory. Volunteers have already spent hours filling cracks and carefully repainting the names by hand, preserving the memorial for future generations.

The message behind their work is powerful: a hero should never be forgotten. Every name represents a life, a family, a community, and an American who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam.

The Buffalo community deserves recognition for honoring these Vietnam War heroes. Their efforts demonstrate that America’s Vietnam Veterans and those who never returned home remain worthy of our highest respect.

The Erie County Naval and Military Park memorial serves as a lasting reminder of Vietnam War history, military service, patriotism, sacrifice, and the extraordinary courage of America’s Vietnam Veterans. By restoring these names, Buffalo is keeping their legacy alive and teaching future generations why we must always remember those who served and sacrificed for our freedom.

Listen to episode 3339 and discover more about what the patriots in Buffalo, NY are doing to honor their Vietnam Veterans.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

U.S. Air Force Col. Walter A. Renelt, 40, of Roberts County, South Dakota

Episode 3338 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a press release about the identification of another Vietnam War MIA. The featured story is titled: Pilot Accounted For From Vietnam War (Renelt, W.). It appeared on the DPAA website.

It was reported that the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) has announced the successful identification of U.S. Air Force Col. Walter A. Renelt, a courageous Vietnam War pilot who was missing in action for more than five decades. Col. Renelt, 40, of Roberts County, South Dakota, was officially accounted for on June 23, 2025, bringing long-awaited answers to his family and honoring the sacrifice of one of America’s finest Vietnam veterans.

Serving with the 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron, Renelt was flying an O-2A Skymaster reconnaissance mission over Laos on November 20, 1969, when his aircraft was struck by enemy fire and crashed. Dangerous weather and intense enemy activity prevented rescue efforts, and he was declared presumed dead in 1973. Through decades of relentless recovery missions, scientific forensic analysis, and international cooperation, DPAA finally identified his remains using dental records and recovered material evidence.

This remarkable recovery highlights the unwavering commitment to America’s Vietnam War heroes, POW/MIA recovery efforts, and the promise that no fallen service member will ever be forgotten. The dedication of the DPAA, the U.S. Air Force, the American Battle Monuments Commission, the governments of Laos and Vietnam, and their partners demonstrates the nation’s enduring mission to bring every missing warrior home.

Today, Col. Renelt’s name is memorialized at the National Cemetery of the Pacific and on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., where a rosette now marks that he has been accounted for. He will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery on August 17, 2026.

The story of Col. Walter A. Renelt is a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of all Vietnam veterans. Their service, dedication, and heroism will never be forgotten, and America’s commitment to honoring every missing service member remains stronger than ever.

For more information about this MIA identification – see these websites:

• https://www.dpaa.mil
• https://www.facebook.com/dodpaa
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/dodpaa
• https://www.instagram.com/dodpaa/
• https://x.com/dodpaa
• https://dpaa-mil.sites.crmforce.mil/dpaaProfile?id=a0Jt0000000BTU8EAO

Listen to episode 3338 and discover more about the identification of another Vietnam War MIA.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Vietnam Vet John Post.

Listen to episode 3337 of the Vietnam Veteran news will feature a story about  Marine Vietnam Vet John Post. The featured story is titled: A Television Show About World War II Changed John Post’s Life. It appeared on the Tap into Mountainside website and was submitted by Monserrat Nava.

Mava reported that the inspiring story of Marine veteran John Post is another powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication displayed by America’s Vietnam Veterans. From his early fascination with the legendary Marines who fought on Guadalcanal during World War II to his own service in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, Post’s life reflects the values of honor, courage, perseverance, and patriotism that define the Vietnam Veteran generation.

After surviving the grueling Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Class, completing law school, and becoming a Marine judge advocate, Post deployed to Vietnam where he served in Chu Lai and Da Nang during one of America’s most challenging conflicts. He experienced enemy attacks, survived a terrifying helicopter engine failure, and endured the constant reality that many of his fellow Marines would never return home. His gratitude for surviving the war while remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice speaks to the humility shared by so many Vietnam veterans.

Following his military service, John Post continued serving his country and community as an attorney and public servant, proving that the commitment to service never ends for those who wear the uniform. His message that patriotism is demonstrated through actions—not merely words—is one that continues to inspire Americans today.

The Vietnam Veteran generation represents one of the greatest generations of warriors our nation has ever produced. Despite often receiving little recognition upon returning home, these brave men and women answered their country’s call, defended freedom, and carried themselves with dignity throughout their lives. Their stories deserve to be preserved and shared with future generations.

As we honor all Vietnam Veterans, let us never forget their sacrifices, courage, resilience, and lifelong dedication to America. Their legacy reminds us that freedom is never free, and that the service of every Vietnam veteran deserves our deepest gratitude, highest respect, and everlasting appreciation.

Listen to episode 3337 and discover more about the inspiring story of Marine Vietnam Vet John Post.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Lt. Vincent Capodanno, right, a chaplain with Mike Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, and two U.S. Marines in the same unit pose for a photo before Operation Swift in Vietnam, Sept. 4, 1967. Lt. Capodanno’s dedication and care for his Marines earned him the highest respect of those who served with him. For his selfless bravery, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, posthumously.

Episode 3336 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Operation Swift in Vietnam. The featured story is titled: 31st MEU | U.S. Marines, Sailors Honor Legacy of Operation Swift During Battlefield Visit in Vietnam. It appeared on an official U.S. Government website and was submitted by 1st Lt. Heather Born, III Marine Expeditionary Force..

Lt. Born reported that the legacy of America’s Vietnam Veterans was honored in extraordinary fashion as U.S. Marines and Sailors from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit returned to the battlefield of Operation Swift near Da Nang, Vietnam. Standing on the same ground where courageous Marines fought overwhelming North Vietnamese Army forces on September 4, 1967, today’s warriors paid tribute to one of the Vietnam War’s most heroic battles.

Operation Swift remains a shining example of the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment displayed by the Vietnam Veteran generation. Outnumbered nearly fifteen to one, the Marines of Mike Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines fought with incredible determination against approximately 2,500 enemy soldiers. Their heroism was immortalized through the selfless sacrifices of Medal of Honor recipients Chaplain Vincent R. Capodanno and Sgt. Lawrence D. Peters, who repeatedly risked and ultimately gave their lives to save their fellow Marines.

The emotional centerpiece of the ceremony came when Vietnam veteran Cpl. George Phillips joined the Marines by phone from Florida. His vivid firsthand account of the brutal 14-hour battle brought history to life, reminding everyone of the unimaginable hardships endured by America’s Vietnam Veterans. His recollections of fearless Navy corpsmen, relentless enemy attacks, and the extraordinary brotherhood forged in combat highlighted why the Vietnam Veteran generation deserves the nation’s everlasting gratitude and respect.

The battlefield visit demonstrated that the courage of Vietnam Veterans continues to inspire today’s Marines and Sailors. By reading the Medal of Honor citations on the very battlefield where these acts of valor occurred, the 31st MEU reinforced the enduring bond between generations of American warriors.

The bravery, sacrifice, patriotism, and resilience displayed during Operation Swift helped shape the modern Marine Corps and remain a lasting testament to the greatness of all Vietnam Veterans. Their service, honor, and devotion to duty will never be forgotten, and their legacy continues to inspire future generations to uphold the proud traditions of the United States Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, and the American military.

Listen to episode 3336 and discover more about Operation Swift in Vietnam.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

The Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall transporter.

The Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall.

Episode 3335 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the appearance of the Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall at Zachary, LA. The featured story is titled: Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall coming to Zachary in November. It appeared on the Advocate website and was submitted by Olivia McClure.

McClure reported that the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall is making a long-awaited return to Zachary, Louisiana, this November, bringing with it a powerful opportunity to honor the brave men and women who served during the Vietnam War. This remarkable replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., bears the names of nearly 58,000 American service members who were killed or remain missing in action. From November 13-16, visitors will have the chance to experience this moving tribute outside Zachary High School after its ceremonial escort into town on November 12.

This special event is about far more than a memorial—it is about recognizing the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication of America’s Vietnam veterans. These heroes answered their nation’s call under extraordinarily difficult circumstances, serving with honor, valor, and commitment despite the hardships of war and the challenges many faced upon returning home. Today, we proudly recognize the Vietnam Veteran generation as one of the greatest generations of warriors in American history.

The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall offers a deeply personal experience for veterans, their families, students, and all Americans. Walking alongside the nearly 300-foot-long wall provides a solemn reminder of the tremendous price paid for freedom. As Zachary City Councilwoman Brandy Westmoreland noted, young people especially should experience the wall firsthand to better understand the sacrifices made by those who served.

If you live in Zachary, Baton Rouge, or anywhere in Louisiana, make plans now to visit the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall. Bring your family, your children, and your friends. This is a rare opportunity to pay tribute to our fallen heroes, thank our surviving Vietnam veterans for their service, and preserve the legacy of those who defended freedom. Every American should take time to remember these extraordinary patriots whose courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Listen to episode 3335 and discover more about the appearance of the Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall in Zachary, LA.