Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Ishpeming Ceremony

Arizona Patriot Guard Riders

Terry Millimaki Ashes

Episode 3319 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how a Vietnam Veteran remains were returned home. The featured story is titled: Arizona Patriot Guard Riders help return deceased Ishpeming veteran’s ashes. It appeared on the TV6 Live Stream Marquette website and was submitted by Julia Seitz

Seitz reported that the story of Terry Millimaki’s final journey home is a powerful reminder of the honor owed to America’s veterans and especially to the men and women of the Vietnam Veteran generation. Millimaki, who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, passed away in February, but his return to his beloved hometown of Ishpeming became a remarkable tribute carried out by the Arizona Patriot Guard Riders. Over 150 motorcyclists participated in a 2,000-mile Pony Express relay that transported his ashes with dignity, care, and unwavering respect.

Captain Bill Wooster explained that veterans are never left alone during these missions. Each transfer is handled with solemn ceremony, reflecting a simple but profound promise: America does not abandon those who served her. Along the route, volunteers devoted their time, resources, and hearts to ensure that a fellow veteran was brought safely home.

The homecoming ceremony conducted by American Legion Post 44 highlighted a truth understood by many communities across the nation: Vietnam veterans deserve to be welcomed home with gratitude, honor, and remembrance. For decades, many returned from war without the recognition they had earned. Today, organizations such as the Patriot Guard Riders help correct that history by standing beside veterans and their families in moments of both sorrow and pride.

Terry Millimaki’s journey was more than a transfer of ashes. It was a national salute to the greatness, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of Vietnam veterans—Americans whose courage and service continue to inspire generations.

Listen to episode 3319 and discover more about how a Vietnam Veteran remains were returned home.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

U.S. Navy A-4 Shyhawk

Episode 3318 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the amazing A-4 Skyhawk and its service in Vietnam. The featured story is titled: The A-4 Skyhawk: Heinemann’s Hot Rod That Refused to Retire. It appeared on the MiGFLUG website and was submitted by Max Grünwald.    .

Ed Heinemann — designer of the A-4 Skyhawk, Douglas Aircraft

Grünwald reported that the Douglas A-4 Skyhawk became one of the greatest naval attack aircraft in history, and its remarkable combat record is inseparable from the courage and professionalism of the U.S. Navy pilots who flew it during the Vietnam War. Designed by the brilliant Ed Heinemann, the Skyhawk proved that simplicity, light weight, and outstanding engineering could outperform larger and more complicated aircraft. Nicknamed the “Scooter” and “Heinemann’s Hot Rod,” it combined speed, agility, and reliability into a compact package that became the backbone of Navy carrier aviation.

Throughout the Vietnam War, Navy pilots launched from aircraft carriers day after day into some of the world’s most heavily defended airspace. Flying the A-4 Skyhawk, they conducted thousands of dangerous strike missions against enemy targets, often facing intense anti-aircraft artillery, surface-to-air missiles, and enemy fighters. Their skill, determination, and unwavering commitment to duty helped sustain America’s air campaign under extraordinarily hazardous conditions. Among those who flew the Skyhawk was future Senator John McCain, whose shootdown over Hanoi became one of the war’s most well-known stories of sacrifice and endurance.

The Skyhawk’s agility and dependability earned the admiration of generations of naval aviators. After Vietnam, it continued serving with distinction in conflicts around the world, with the Blue Angels, and as an adversary aircraft at TOPGUN, demonstrating the timeless excellence of its design.

Above all, the A-4 Skyhawk symbolizes the greatness of America’s Navy pilots in Vietnam. Their extraordinary bravery, precision, and resilience under fire reflected the highest traditions of naval aviation. Flying from crowded carrier decks into combat and returning to do it again and again, these aviators displayed exceptional courage and professionalism, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of naval officers and military pilots.

Listen to episode 3318 and discover more about the amazing A-4 Skyhawk and its service in Vietnam..

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Charlotte, presents Robert Haywood with new copies of his medals alongside Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins and Eaton County Commissioner Nicole Christensen. (David Sackrider/WLNS)

Episode 3317 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how Vietnam Vet Robert Haywood recovered his stolen Purple Heart. The featured story is titled: After his Purple Heart was stolen, postal worker helps Vietnam veteran get replacement. It appeared on the WLNS website and was submitted by David Sackrider.   .

Sackrider reported that the story of Marine veteran Robert Haywood is a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit of the Vietnam Veteran generation. Haywood proudly served his country as a United States Marine sergeant during the Vietnam War, earning numerous military honors, including an Expert Marksman Badge, a Good Conduct Medal, and, after years of waiting, the Purple Heart for wounds received in service. These decorations represent not only his personal bravery but also the extraordinary commitment displayed by millions of Americans who answered their nation’s call.

When thieves broke into Haywood’s Lansing home and stole the medals he had only recently received, it was more than a property crime—it was an attack on symbols of honor earned through sacrifice. Yet the response from his community demonstrated that the service of Vietnam veterans will never be forgotten. Postal carrier Adrienne Burns, deeply moved by Haywood’s loss, rallied support through social media. Her efforts, joined by Eaton County Commissioner Nicole Christensen, Congressman Tom Barrett, and Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins, led to a heartfelt ceremony where replacement medals were presented to Haywood.

The emotional event restored more than medals; it reaffirmed the nation’s gratitude for those who served during one of America’s most difficult wars. Haywood’s quiet humility and the compassion shown by those around him reflected the very best of America.

Every Vietnam veteran deserves the same respect and recognition. Their courage under impossible conditions, unwavering dedication to duty, and lifelong sacrifices helped preserve the freedoms Americans enjoy today. Their legacy is one of honor, resilience, and patriotism, and it continues to inspire future generations to appreciate the true cost of freedom.

Listen to episode 3317 and discover more about how Vietnam Vet Robert Haywood recovered his stolen Purple Heart.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Springfield-area residents form a receiving line to honor Vietnam War veterans upon their return from their Honor Flight trip to Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.

Episode 3316 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the recent Ozarks Honor Flight report. The story is titled: Vietnam veterans welcomed home to Springfield after Honor Flight. It appeared on the Springfield News-Leader website and was submitted by Chris Meglio.

Meglio reported that more than five decades after returning from the Vietnam War, 81 Ozarks Vietnam veterans finally received the heartfelt homecoming many never experienced. As part of an Honor Flight, they traveled from Springfield to Washington, D.C., where they visited memorials honoring those who served in Vietnam, Korea, World War II and Iwo Jima, and witnessed the solemn Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery. The journey stirred deep emotions, with some veterans reflecting quietly while others shed tears as they remembered their service and sacrifice.

The most powerful moment came when they returned to Springfield-Branson National Airport. Hundreds of grateful supporters lined the terminal, greeting the veterans with applause, flowers, hugs, handshakes and heartfelt expressions of thanks. The overwhelming reception symbolized a long-overdue recognition for a generation of Americans whose courage was too often overlooked when they first came home.

Vietnam veterans answered their nation’s call during one of the most difficult and divisive periods in American history. They endured the hardships of combat, lost friends, and many returned to face rejection instead of gratitude. Despite those challenges, they continued serving their communities through organizations that help fellow veterans, proving their commitment to service never ended.

The Honor Flight was more than a day of sightseeing—it was a powerful tribute to extraordinary men whose sacrifice helped preserve the freedoms Americans enjoy today. Their resilience, humility and dedication embody the highest ideals of military service. America is stronger because of Vietnam veterans, and honoring their legacy ensures their courage, sacrifice and unwavering patriotism will never be forgotten.

 Listen to episode 3316 and discover more about the recent Ozarks Honor Flight report.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

The new headstone honoring Lance Cpl. Rionald Dean Rogers stand at Tower Heights Cemetery in West Frankfort. [Paul Wilcoxen]

Episode 3315 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how Vietnam Vets were honored at West Frankfort, Illinois. The story is titled: Ceremony gives Vietnam veterans long-overdue recognition. It appeared on the Southern Illinoisan website and was submitted by Paul Wilcoxen.        .

Wilcoxen reported in his story that the upcoming memorial ceremony in West Frankfort is far more than the dedication of a headstone—it is a heartfelt tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of America’s Vietnam veterans, especially the United States Marines who served with extraordinary valor. What began as an effort to place a permanent marker on the grave of Lance Cpl. Ronald Dean Rogers has grown into a community-wide expression of gratitude for all local service members who fought in Vietnam and for those who never returned.

Lance Cpl. Rogers, a 1968 West Frankfort Community High School graduate, gave his life in Quang Tri Province on August 31, 1969, at just 19 years old. Like thousands of Marines who fought in Vietnam, he answered his nation’s call without hesitation. Marines earned a reputation throughout the war for their relentless determination, fierce combat skills, and unwavering commitment to one another. Whether defending remote outposts, battling through dense jungles, or enduring brutal engagements near the Demilitarized Zone, they embodied the Marine Corps’ proud tradition of honor, courage, and commitment.

Inspired by longtime friend Danny Ramsey’s determination to provide Rogers with the headstone he deserved, community members rallied together through fundraisers and generous donations. Their efforts expanded into a larger ceremony honoring every West Frankfort resident who died in Vietnam while also recognizing the veterans who returned home, many of whom never received the welcome they deserved.

The ceremony serves as a reminder that the Vietnam generation, now in their later years, deserves lasting respect and gratitude. By honoring these Marines and all Vietnam veterans, West Frankfort ensures their sacrifices will never be forgotten, preserving their legacy for future generations who will remember the price they paid for freedom.

Listen to episode 3315 and discover more about how Vietnam Vets were honored at West Frankfort, Illinois.

F-105 Thuds

Episode 3314 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how the F-105 Thuds  performed in the Vietnam War. The story is titled: Thud Ridge: The Bloody Road to Hanoi. It appeared on the MigFlug website and was submitted by Joseph Duncan.       .

Duncan reported in his story that the story of Thud Ridge is one of extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and determination by the U.S. Air Force’s F-105 Thunderchief pilots during the Vietnam War. Flying one of the most dangerous combat missions in aviation history, these men repeatedly attacked heavily defended targets around Hanoi through the infamous Tam Dao mountain range, forever known as Thud Ridge. Using the ridge to shield themselves from enemy radar, they descended into a deadly gauntlet of anti-aircraft artillery, SA-2 surface-to-air missiles, and hostile MiG fighters, knowing every mission could be their last.

Originally designed as a high-speed nuclear strike aircraft, the F-105 was thrust into the role of carrying massive conventional bomb loads deep into North Vietnam. Despite not being built for such a campaign, the Thunderchief became the backbone of Operation Rolling Thunder, flying roughly three-quarters of the U.S. Air Force’s strike missions against the North. The cost was staggering. Nearly half of all F-105s ever built were lost, making it one of the most heavily attrited American combat aircraft in history.

The bravery of the Thud pilots was remarkable. They flew the same hazardous routes day after day, often requiring 100 combat missions to complete a tour, even though the odds of surviving unscathed were frighteningly low. Their greatest enemy was usually the relentless wall of anti-aircraft fire rather than enemy fighters. Compounding the danger were restrictive rules of engagement that prevented them from striking key enemy airfields, allowing MiGs to launch attacks with impunity.

Colonel Jack Broughton

Colonel Jack Broughton immortalized the experiences of these aviators in his classic memoir Thud Ridge, preserving the voices and heroism of the men who risked everything over North Vietnam. Their courage was measured not only in medals, but in every bombing run they completed through overwhelming fire. The legacy of the F-105 pilots remains one of the finest examples of valor, professionalism, and unwavering dedication in American military aviation history.

Listen to episode 3314 and discover more about how how the F-105 Thuds  performed in the Vietnam War.

Recommended Reading

Buy Now

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Designed to break apart in midair, cluster bombs delivered up to 600 bomblets, each smaller than a fist, to contaminate an area of several football fields. It is estimated that 270 million of these submunitions — known locally as “bombies” — were dropped on Laos, but 30% failed to detonate.

Episode 3313 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how Vietnam War UXOs are still a challenge for Laos. The story is titled: Weapons of long-ago conflicts still haunt people of Laos. It appeared on the DW website and was submitted by Julian Ryall.      .

Ryall reported in his story that more than fifty years after the Vietnam War ended, Laos continues to suffer from one of the conflict’s deadliest legacies: millions of unexploded bombs scattered across its countryside. Between 1964 and 1973, the United States dropped more than two million tons of ordnance on Laos in an effort to disrupt North Vietnam’s use of the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Among the most dangerous weapons were cluster bombs, which released hundreds of small bomblets known locally as “bombies.” An estimated 30% failed to explode and remain hidden beneath fields, forests, and villages.

The human toll is illustrated by the story of Thong Phet, who lost his left arm and severely injured his right hand after accidentally striking an unexploded bomb with a machete as an 18-year-old novice monk. Today, he watches demining teams painstakingly search his farmland, hoping it will finally be declared safe for farming.

UXO Laos teams continue the dangerous work of locating and destroying these hidden explosives, but the task remains enormous. Entire provinces are still contaminated, restricting agriculture, infrastructure development, and economic growth while forcing farmers to risk their lives simply to cultivate their land. Public education programs now teach children how to recognize and avoid unexploded ordnance, while organizations such as COPE provide prosthetic limbs and rehabilitation for survivors.

Although casualties have declined dramatically thanks to decades of clearance efforts and risk education, unexploded ordnance continues to claim lives each year. As Laos prepares to host the Third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, the nation hopes to highlight both the progress achieved and the immense work still required to eliminate this deadly legacy of war and ensure a safer future for generations to come.

Listen to episode 3313 and discover more about how Vietnam War UXOs are still a challenge for Laos.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Left: Terry McIntosh, kneeling, with retired Lt. Col. Al Kittredge at Fort Bragg, North Carolina in June 2026. Right: An undated photo of McIntosh during his time in the Army. Photos courtesy of Terry McIntosh.

Episode 3312 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how Vietnam Vet Terry McIntosh finally received Green Beret recognition. The story is titled: At 18, he fought with Green Berets in Vietnam. Now, he finally has his Special Forces tab.. It appeared on the Task & Purpose website and was submitted by Matt White.

White reported in his story that the remarkable story of Terry McIntosh is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and quiet professionalism that defined America’s Vietnam War Green Berets. At just 17 years old, McIntosh enlisted in the U.S. Army because he believed it was his duty while fellow Americans were fighting and dying in Vietnam. Barely a year later, the teenager found himself serving with the legendary 5th Special Forces Group, eventually joining Operational Detachment A-414 along the dangerous Cambodian border.

Despite his youth, McIntosh was treated no differently than the seasoned warriors beside him. Green Berets demanded competence, courage, and unwavering commitment—not age or rank. He participated in combat operations, earned the Combat Infantryman Badge after a fierce firefight, and proved himself worthy of serving alongside some of the Army’s most elite soldiers. His recent recognition with the Special Forces Tab finally acknowledges what his fellow Green Berets had known all along: he had earned his place among them.

McIntosh’s journey also highlights the enduring brotherhood of the Special Forces community. Decades after the war, retired Green Beret Al Kittredge helped ensure McIntosh received the official recognition he deserved, demonstrating the loyalty and honor that have always characterized the Green Berets.

The Vietnam War Green Berets remain among the most respected warriors in American military history. Operating in remote jungles, often outnumbered and isolated, they trained indigenous forces, gathered intelligence, conducted daring reconnaissance missions, and fought some of the war’s most dangerous battles. Their motto, “De Oppresso Liber”—to free the oppressed—was reflected in both their actions and their character. Terry McIntosh’s inspiring story stands as another testament to the courage, resilience, and lasting legacy of these exceptional American heroes.

Listen to episode 3312 and discover more about how Vietnam Vet Terry McIntosh finally received Green Beret recognition.

Recommended Reading

Buy Now

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

The AC-130: A Cargo Plane With More Guns Than a Destroyer

An AC-130 gunship lights up the night sky during a live-fire training exercise. The aircraft’s side-firing weapons are its defining feature. (U.S. Air Force)

Episode 3311 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the AC-130 Gunship story. The story is titled: The AC-130: A Cargo Plane With More Guns Than a Destroyer. It appeared on the MiGFlug website and was submitted by Connor Kerr  .

Kerr reported in his story that In September 1967, a modified C-130 Hercules lifted off from Nha Trang Air Base and introduced a revolutionary concept in air warfare. Converted under Project Gunship II, the aircraft carried miniguns, Vulcan cannons, a pioneering fire-control computer, and night-vision equipment, transforming a cargo plane into the AC-130 “Spectre.” By orbiting in a continuous pylon turn, the gunship could keep all of its weapons focused on a single target, creating a flying artillery platform capable of extraordinary accuracy and endurance.

The AC-130 evolved from the earlier AC-47 “Spooky,” but it offered greater speed, firepower, and survivability. In Vietnam, it became especially deadly along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, where it hunted trucks, fuel depots, and supply convoys at night. By war’s end, AC-130 crews were credited with destroying more than 10,000 trucks. The gunship also played a crucial role during the 1972 siege of An Loc, providing lifesaving close air support against infantry assaults and advancing tanks.

As the aircraft evolved, its arsenal expanded to include a 40 mm Bofors cannon and the famous 105 mm howitzer, giving it the striking power of ground artillery delivered from the sky. Later variants added precision-guided weapons, turning the gunship from a devastating area weapon into a highly precise battlefield tool.

From Grenada and Panama to the Gulf War, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, the AC-130 proved its value repeatedly. Today’s AC-130J Ghostrider continues the mission with advanced sensors and stand-off weapons, preserving a concept that has endured for more than half a century: persistent, precise, and fearsome firepower from an aircraft originally designed to haul cargo.

 Listen to episode 3311 and discover more about the AC-130 Gunship story.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

COL Robyn olds, Operation Bolo planner and executor

Episode 3310 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Robin Olds and Operation Bolo. The story is titled: Operation Bolo: Robin Olds’ MiG Trap Over Hanoi. It appeared on the MiGFlug website and was submitted by Connor Kerr         .

Kerr reported in his story that Colonel Robin Olds cemented his place as one of America’s greatest fighter pilots and military leaders during the Vietnam War with the brilliant execution of Operation Bolo on January 2, 1967. At a time when North Vietnamese MiG-21 fighters were inflicting growing losses on American strike aircraft, Olds devised an audacious deception plan that completely reversed the tactical situation. By having F-4C Phantom fighters imitate vulnerable F-105 Thunderchief bombers in every electronic and operational detail, he lured the enemy into a carefully prepared ambush over Hanoi.

The North Vietnamese MiGs believed they were attacking heavily loaded bombers. Instead, they found themselves facing highly maneuverable Phantoms armed and ready for combat. In just twelve minutes, Olds and his pilots destroyed seven MiG-21s without losing a single American aircraft. The stunning victory temporarily crippled North Vietnam’s interceptor force, restored confidence among U.S. aircrews, and dramatically reduced enemy MiG attacks for weeks afterward.

Robin Olds’ leadership, courage, and tactical genius made Operation Bolo one of the most successful fighter operations in aviation history. A decorated World War II ace and inspirational commander of the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing, Olds demonstrated that superior planning, innovation, and aggressive execution could overcome even the most difficult battlefield challenges. His willingness to lead from the front inspired every pilot under his command.

Today, Operation Bolo remains a classic example of air combat excellence studied by military professionals around the world. Robin Olds’ extraordinary achievements continue to symbolize the professionalism, ingenuity, and fighting spirit of the United States Air Force and the remarkable generation of Americans who served with distinction during the Vietnam War.

 Listen to episode 3310 and discover more about Robin Olds and Operation Bolo.