Vietnam Veteran News

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Navy Lt. Vincent Capodanno.

Episode 3366 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Medal of Honor recipient Vincent R. Capodanno. The featured story is titled: Servant of God Father Vincent R. Capodanno Remembered at Memorial Mass on 59th Anniversary of Death. It appeared on the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA website.

The story reported that the Cessna O-1A Bird Dog, also known as the L-19A, was a remarkable Vietnam War aircraft that played a vital role in the dangerous mission of Forward Air Controllers (FACs). This small, rugged observation aircraft represents the courage, skill, and determination of the Vietnam Veteran generation—men who flew and fought in aircraft that often operated directly over enemy positions.

The aircraft featured here, serial number 51-2247, was built in 1951 and later preserved by the Heritage Flight Museum at Skagit Regional Airport in Burlington, Washington. Its history carries reminders of America’s military past, including evidence that aircraft of this type had been used in Korea and Vietnam.

The Bird Dog entered military service during the Korean War, quickly proving its value as an observation and liaison aircraft. Redesignated the O-1 in 1962, it became especially important during the Vietnam War, where Air Force and Army crews performed dangerous aerial reconnaissance and forward air control missions.

Flying low and slow over hostile territory, Vietnam-era FAC pilots searched for enemy targets, marked them with smoke or marker rockets, and directed powerful F-4 Phantom II and F-105 Thunderchief attack aircraft onto their targets. Their famous radio call, “Hit my smoke,” became synonymous with the extraordinary bravery of these aircrews.

The O-1 Bird Dog also supported clandestine missions in Laos, where American pilots served as Ravens, guiding air strikes under extremely dangerous conditions. Australian pilots also flew Bird Dog FAC missions alongside American forces.

With its 213-horsepower Continental engine, excellent low-speed handling, and specialized marker systems, the Bird Dog was a true Vietnam War workhorse.

Above all, the O-1 Bird Dog stands as a tribute to the greatness of our Vietnam Veterans. Their courage, sacrifice, professionalism, and unwavering dedication helped save lives and accomplish missions under some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable. We honor every Vietnam Veteran who served our nation.

Listen to episode 3366 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Vincent R. Capodanno.

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O1-A Birddog

Episode 3365 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the O1-A, Birddog. The featured story is titled: Randy’s Warbird Profiles: Cessna O-1A (L-19A) Bird Dog. It appeared on the Vintage Aviation News website and was submitted by Randy Malmstrom.

Malmstrom reported that the Cessna O-1A Bird Dog, also known as the L-19A, was a remarkable Vietnam War aircraft that played a vital role in the dangerous mission of Forward Air Controllers (FACs). This small, rugged observation aircraft represents the courage, skill, and determination of the Vietnam Veteran generation—men who flew and fought in aircraft that often operated directly over enemy positions.

The aircraft featured here, serial number 51-2247, was built in 1951 and later preserved by the Heritage Flight Museum at Skagit Regional Airport in Burlington, Washington. Its history carries reminders of America’s military past, including evidence that aircraft of this type had been used in Korea and Vietnam.

The Bird Dog entered military service during the Korean War, quickly proving its value as an observation and liaison aircraft. Redesignated the O-1 in 1962, it became especially important during the Vietnam War, where Air Force and Army crews performed dangerous aerial reconnaissance and forward air control missions.

Flying low and slow over hostile territory, Vietnam-era FAC pilots searched for enemy targets, marked them with smoke or marker rockets, and directed powerful F-4 Phantom II and F-105 Thunderchief attack aircraft onto their targets. Their famous radio call, “Hit my smoke,” became synonymous with the extraordinary bravery of these aircrews.

The O-1 Bird Dog also supported clandestine missions in Laos, where American pilots served as Ravens, guiding air strikes under extremely dangerous conditions. Australian pilots also flew Bird Dog FAC missions alongside American forces.

With its 213-horsepower Continental engine, excellent low-speed handling, and specialized marker systems, the Bird Dog was a true Vietnam War workhorse.

Above all, the O-1 Bird Dog stands as a tribute to the greatness of our Vietnam Veterans. Their courage, sacrifice, professionalism, and unwavering dedication helped save lives and accomplish missions under some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable. We honor every Vietnam Veteran who served our nation.

Listen to episode 3365 and discover more about the O1-A, Birddog.

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Navy Vietnam Veteran Clide Bryan Scoggins

Episode 3364 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the Navy Vietnam Vet who was interviewed by his grandson. The featured story is titled: Clide Scoggins. It appeared on the VVMF website and was submitted by Reid Scoggins.

Reid Scoggins reported that Vietnam Veteran Clide Bryan Scoggins represents the dedication, perseverance, and greatness of the Vietnam Veteran generation. In an interview conducted in New Bern, North Carolina, New Bern High School senior Reid Scoggins, his grandson, shares the remarkable story of his grandfather’s United States Navy service during the Vietnam War.

Born in 1947 in Oxford, North Carolina, Clide Bryan Scoggins grew up in Havelock, North Carolina, a military community shaped by Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. After graduating from high school, he began working in data processing before joining the Navy in October 1966. His journey included demanding Navy boot camp, electronics training, and eventually two tours in Vietnam.

Serving at Camp Tenshaw in Da Nang and later in Chu Lai, Scoggins worked long hours supporting thousands of military personnel. From preparing meals to driving forklifts, standing watch, and managing frozen food warehouses, his service demonstrates the importance of logistics, teamwork, and behind-the-scenes military support. These were essential contributions to the Vietnam War effort.

After returning home, Scoggins continued his Navy career at duty stations across the United States, including Jacksonville, Florida, Adak, Alaska, Charleston, South Carolina, and New Orleans, Louisiana. He also helped develop the Navy Air Logistics Information System (NALIS), using his technical skills to improve the transportation of people and supplies.

Following his retirement, Scoggins remained committed to the Vietnam Veterans of America, serving as a local chapter president and supporting fellow veterans. His story is a powerful reminder that Vietnam Veterans served with courage, adapted to extraordinary challenges, and built lives of lasting achievement.

We honor Clide Bryan Scoggins and all Vietnam Veterans for their service, sacrifice, resilience, and the enduring legacy they continue to share with America.

Listen to episode 3364 and discover more about the Navy Vietnam Vet who was interviewed by his grandson.

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Larry Rhodes, Indiana Rangers

Episode 3363 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Indiana Ranger Larry Rhodes and his Vietnam War story. The featured story is titled: Indiana Rangers receive highest military award. It appeared on the WEHT/WTVW News Live website and was submitted by Micah Noel.

Noel reported that the greatness of our Vietnam Veterans was once again honored as the 151st Infantry Regiment of the Indiana National Guard, known proudly as the Indiana Rangers, received the Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary service during the Vietnam War. The award is considered the highest honor a military unit can receive, recognizing the courage, sacrifice, and combat excellence demonstrated by American soldiers under some of the most demanding conditions of the war.

At the National Guard Association of the United States conference, 45 veterans from the original 212-member unit gathered to receive this long-overdue recognition. Among them was Larry Rhodes, who served with the company for 11 months and experienced firsthand the dangers of combat in the Vietnamese jungle.

Rhodes recalled carrying an M-60 machine gun while operating deep in the jungle. The Indiana Rangers specialized in long-range reconnaissance patrols, jungle warfare, surveillance, and ambush missions. Small teams of approximately six soldiers would move quietly through dangerous territory, locate trails, establish concealed positions, and monitor enemy movement for days at a time. Silence, patience, courage, and teamwork were essential to survival.

After returning home, Rhodes and many other Vietnam veterans quietly resumed civilian life. Yet they never forgot the brothers with whom they served. Rhodes continues to stay connected with fellow veterans while remembering those who have passed away.

Receiving the Presidential Unit Citation decades after the Vietnam War was an emotional moment. Many veterans were nearly speechless, overwhelmed by the significance of finally being recognized for their service and sacrifice.

Rhodes has one simple message for America: “Don’t just let the public forget us.”

That message should resonate with every generation. The Vietnam Veteran generation served when America needed them, endured hardship, carried the memories of war home, and continued forward with dignity. Their service, sacrifice, courage, and patriotism must never be forgotten. The Indiana Rangers—and all Vietnam Veterans—deserve our lasting respect, gratitude, and honor.

Listen to episode 3363 and discover more about Indiana Ranger Larry Rhodes and his Vietnam War story.

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In a ceremony Aug. 29 at the National Guard Association of the United States’ General Conference and Exhibition in Indianapolis, some of the surviving members of Company D, also known as the Indiana Rangers, received the long-awaited award.

Episode 3362 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the Indiana Rangers’ award. The featured story is titled: Indiana Rangers Recognized for Vietnam Valor. It appeared on the Association of the United States Army website.

It was reported that more than 55 years after returning home from the Vietnam War, the surviving soldiers of Indiana National Guard **Company D, 151st Infantry Regiment—known as the Indiana Rangers—**have finally received one of America’s highest military honors: the Presidential Unit Citation. Presented Aug. 29 in Indianapolis, the award recognizes the extraordinary heroism, gallantry, courage, and determination displayed by these remarkable Vietnam Veterans during a yearlong combat deployment.

The Indiana Rangers mobilized in May 1968, deploying 204 soldiers for intensive training at Fort Benning, Georgia, including demanding Ranger and Pathfinder courses. After arriving in South Vietnam in late 1968, these citizen-soldiers conducted dangerous long-range reconnaissance patrols deep behind enemy lines, tracking North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong movements around War Zone D near Saigon.

During their one-year Vietnam deployment, Company D conducted an astonishing 974 combat patrols, documented 134 enemy sightings, and participated in 94 direct engagements. Six Indiana Rangers made the ultimate sacrifice—four in combat and two in a helicopter crash.

Their extraordinary record of valor speaks for itself: Company D soldiers earned 19 Silver Stars, 123 Bronze Stars, 101 Purple Hearts, 111 Air Medals, and 183 Army Commendation Medals. Eighty-eight of the Bronze Stars and 29 Army Commendation Medals were awarded with the V Device for Valor.

These achievements demonstrate the extraordinary quality of the Vietnam Veteran generation. The Indiana Rangers were not simply soldiers; they were citizen-soldiers who answered their nation’s call during one of the most difficult periods in American military history.

Their legacy of sacrifice, courage, patriotism, professionalism, and battlefield excellence continues to inspire today’s National Guard. The Presidential Unit Citation is more than an award—it is a long-overdue recognition of what these Vietnam Veterans accomplished under extraordinarily dangerous conditions.

We proudly honor all Vietnam Veterans who served, sacrificed, fought, and endured. Their courage helped write one of the most important chapters in American military history, and their legacy deserves to be remembered forever.

Listen to episode 3362 and discover more about the Indiana Rangers’ award.

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Lt. Commander John McCain in Vietnam.

Episode 3361 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the Shoot down of John McCain over Hanoi.. The featured story is titled: The Shootdown of John McCain over Hanoi. It appeared on the Aviation Geek Club website and was submitted by Dario Leone.

Leone reported that Vietnam Veterans represent one of the most courageous and resilient generations in American military history. Among them was John S. McCain III, a U.S. Navy aviator whose extraordinary service during the Vietnam War became a powerful example of sacrifice, courage, perseverance, and devotion to duty.

Born into a distinguished United States Navy family, McCain followed his father and grandfather into military service and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1958. As a Navy fighter pilot, he flew combat missions aboard aircraft carriers, including the USS Forrestal and USS Oriskany.

In 1967, McCain survived the devastating USS Forrestal fire, a tragedy that killed 134 sailors and injured 161 others. Despite his injuries, he volunteered to return to combat. On October 26, 1967, during a bombing mission over North Vietnam, his A-4 Skyhawk was struck by a Soviet-made SA-2 surface-to-air missile. McCain ejected and crashed into Trúc Bạch Lake in Hanoi, suffering severe injuries.

Captured by North Vietnamese forces, McCain became a Vietnam War POW at the infamous Hanoi Hilton. He endured more than five years of captivity, including beatings, inadequate medical treatment, and approximately three years in solitary confinement. Despite being offered early release because of his father’s position as an admiral, McCain refused unless prisoners captured before him were released first—an extraordinary demonstration of the military Code of Conduct, honor, loyalty, and selfless service.

Released in 1973, McCain returned to the United States and continued serving his country. His military decorations included the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, Purple Heart, and Distinguished Flying Cross.

The story of John McCain reminds us that Vietnam Veterans are American heroes whose courage and sacrifices must never be forgotten. Their service, resilience, patriotism, and dedication deserve our deepest respect, gratitude, and honor.

Listen to episode 3361 and discover more about the Shoot down of John McCain over Hanoi.

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The deck of the USS Forrestal

Fire on the Forrestal

Episode 3360 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the Tragedy on the USS Forrestal. The featured story is titled: The sad story of the Forrestal Fire. It appeared on the Aviation Geek Club website and was submitted by Dario Leone.

Leone reported that the Vietnam War was a defining chapter in American military history, and few places demonstrated the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of our Vietnam Veterans more dramatically than the flight decks of U.S. Navy aircraft carriers operating in the Gulf of Tonkin. These enormous warships carried hundreds of men, aircraft, jet fuel, and highly explosive weapons, making aircraft carrier fires among the most terrifying dangers faced by naval aviators and sailors.

The tragedy aboard USS Oriskany (CV-34) in October 1966 killed 25 pilots and 19 sailors and removed the carrier from combat for nine months. Other devastating incidents involving Zuni rockets occurred aboard USS Coral Sea and USS Hancock, demonstrating the deadly risks surrounding Vietnam-era naval aviation.

But the most catastrophic carrier fire occurred aboard USS Forrestal (CV-59) on July 29, 1967. A Zuni rocket accidentally fired during preparations for a combat launch, striking an A-4 Skyhawk and igniting aviation fuel across the flight deck. Within moments, several aircraft were engulfed in flames.

The disaster became even more deadly when aging World War II-era M65 bombs began detonating in the intense heat. Their explosions tore massive holes through the flight deck and sent burning fuel into the ship’s lower compartments. After approximately 12 hours of firefighting, 134 men had been killed, dozens of aircraft were destroyed or severely damaged, and Forrestal required an extensive and costly reconstruction.

The Forrestal disaster stands as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary courage of American sailors, pilots, firefighters, and deck crews during the Vietnam War. These men faced unimaginable danger while carrying out their missions under combat conditions.

Above all, we must never forget the greatness of our Vietnam Veterans. Whether serving in the cockpit, on the flight deck, below decks, or fighting fires, these brave Americans demonstrated courage, duty, sacrifice, patriotism, and unwavering commitment. Their service and sacrifices remain an enduring part of Vietnam War history and American military history.

Listen to episode 3360 and discover more about the Tragedy on the USS Forrestal.

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An Douglas A-3 Skywarrior delivering bombs.

An Douglas A-3 Skywarrior in level flight.

Episode 3359 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the U.S. Navy A-3 Skywarrior service in Vietnam. The featured story is titled: Did you know that even though the A-3 Skywarrior didn’t have a bombsight was the most accurate dive bomber during the Vietnam War. It appeared on the Aviation Geek Club website and was submitted by Dario Leone.

Leone reported that the Douglas A-3 Skywarrior, famously known as “The Whale,” was one of the most remarkable aircraft in U.S. Navy history and played an important role during the Vietnam War. Designed as a strategic carrier-based bomber, the A-3 entered service in the 1950s and remained in the Navy until 1991, making it one of the longest-serving carrier aircraft ever built.

During the Vietnam War, the Skywarrior demonstrated the skill, courage, and determination of the American Vietnam Veteran generation. On March 3, 1965, A-3s from VAH-2 aboard USS Coral Sea conducted one of the aircraft’s first conventional bombing missions against Bach Long Vi Island in the Gulf of Tonkin. Navy aviators soon developed an extraordinary reputation for bombing accuracy, even though their aircraft lacked a conventional gunsight or bombsight capable of accurately delivering ordnance.

The A-3 also performed radar bombing missions, including operations over North Vietnam and South Vietnam, particularly at night and during poor weather. Its enormous size and heavy payload made it a valuable weapon aboard American aircraft carriers.

One of the most dramatic missions involved an attempt to mine the approaches to Haiphong Harbor in 1967. Skywarriors were prepared to fly at extremely low altitude and drop 1,000-pound magnetic mines, but the mission was canceled after an A-3 disappeared shortly before launch.

As the war progressed, the A-6 Intruder increasingly replaced the Skywarrior in the strike role. The A-3 was simply too large and too slow to survive comfortably in North Vietnam’s increasingly dangerous air-defense environment.

Yet the legacy of the Skywarrior belongs not only to the aircraft, but to the brave Vietnam Veterans who flew, maintained, armed, supported, and operated these powerful Navy aircraft. Their courage, professionalism, sacrifice, and dedication represent the very best of the Vietnam Veteran generation. We owe these remarkable men our deepest respect, gratitude, and lasting remembrance.

Listen to episode 3359 and discover more about the U.S. Navy A-3 Skywarrior service in Vietnam.

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The U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Oriskany (CVA-34) on fire, Oct. 26, 1966.

Episode 3358 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the day the USS Oriskany caught fire. The featured story is titled: The USS Oriskany fire, the first of three aircraft carrier fires that occurred during the Vietnam War. It appeared on the Aviation Geek Club website and was submitted by Dario Leone.

Leone reported that the USS Oriskany fire of October 26, 1966, remains one of the most tragic and heroic episodes of the Vietnam War and a powerful reminder of the courage displayed by Vietnam Veterans who served aboard America’s aircraft carriers. At 7:28 a.m., a magnesium flare accidentally ignited inside a locker containing hundreds of Mark 24 flares and rocket warheads, unleashing a devastating fire aboard the carrier.

With the USS Oriskany preparing to launch combat aircraft, sailors immediately sounded General Quarters and rushed to battle the flames. The danger was enormous. The ship was loaded with fully fueled aircraft, aviation fuel, bombs, rockets, and explosive ordnance. Sailors bravely moved armed aircraft away from the fire and onto the flight deck in an extraordinary effort to prevent an even greater catastrophe.

The flames and thick smoke quickly spread into the forward berthing areas where many naval aviators and Vietnam War pilots were sleeping. Tragically, 24 pilots and 20 other officers and sailors lost their lives, resulting in 44 casualties. Some men were trapped in smoke-filled passageways and staterooms, while others fought desperately to survive.

Stories of individual bravery stand out. One trapped pilot used soaked sheets and blankets to protect himself from the heat and smoke before receiving a fire hose and breathing equipment. Commander Richard “Dick” Bellinger, despite being trapped in his stateroom, forced his way through a porthole and reached the flight deck, where he helped organize firefighting teams.

The USS Oriskany was ultimately forced out of action and sent to Subic Bay before returning to the United States for extensive repairs.

The tragedy demonstrates the extraordinary courage, determination, sacrifice, and brotherhood of Vietnam Veterans. These men answered the call of duty under some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable. Their service and sacrifice deserve our deepest respect, gratitude, and remembrance. The Vietnam Veteran generation truly represents American courage and military service at its finest.

Listen to episode 3358 and discover more about the day the USS Oriskany caught fire.

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Vietnam Veteran and Army Nurse Vicki Strevey.

Episode 3357 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how Vicki Strevey served in Vietnam and for President Eisenhower. The featured story is titled: From service during the Vietnam War to taking care of a former US President, a remarkable life for a Leander woman It appeared on the KVUE website and was submitted by Bob Buckalew.

Buckalew reported that Retired U.S. Army Captain Vicki Strevey represents the courage, dedication, and extraordinary service of the Vietnam Veteran generation. A young nursing school graduate in the 1960s, Strevey volunteered to serve as an Army nurse in Vietnam, stepping into a dangerous environment where she cared for American soldiers facing not only combat injuries but also the deadly tropical diseases of Southeast Asia.

At just 21 years old, Strevey arrived in Vietnam as a newly graduated nurse and was assigned to a tropical disease unit. She treated soldiers suffering from malaria and other tropical diseases, confronting an invisible enemy of mosquitoes, parasites, contaminated water, and dangerous bacteria. Her story demonstrates the incredible professionalism and compassion of the Vietnam War nurses and medical personnel who served alongside America’s fighting men and women.

After returning from Vietnam, Strevey continued her distinguished military medical career at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. There, she was given the remarkable responsibility of caring for former President Dwight D. Eisenhower during the final year of his life. Her memories of Eisenhower reveal not only his historic stature but also his warmth and sense of humor.

Today, Captain Strevey continues to represent the strength and greatness of Vietnam Veterans and the women who served during the Vietnam War. Through Honor Flight Austin, she will join fellow veterans on an expense-paid journey to Washington, D.C., where they will visit the nation’s memorials honoring their service.

Among the most meaningful stops will be the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, which honors approximately 11,000 women who served in Vietnam, many of them nurses.

Captain Vicki Strevey’s remarkable journey is a powerful reminder that the Vietnam Veteran generation deserves our deepest respect, gratitude, and honor. Their courage, sacrifice, compassion, and unwavering commitment to duty helped write an important chapter in American military history that should never be forgotten.

Listen to episode 3357 and discover more about how Vicki Strevey served in Vietnam and for President Eisenhower.