Vietnam Veteran News

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Vietnam Vet General George S. Patton IV

Episode 3000 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Vietnam Vet General George S. Patton IV. Information featured in this episode comes from the HistoryNet website.

General George S. Patton IV, the son of the legendary World War II commander, carried on his family’s legacy with distinction. A decorated Vietnam War veteran, Patton IV served multiple tours, leading armored cavalry units through the treacherous jungles and unpredictable battlefields of Southeast Asia. His leadership in the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, the famed “Blackhorse Regiment,” earned him respect among his troops and a reputation as a fearless warrior.

Patton IV’s aggressive tactics mirrored those of his famous father, but he adapted them to the unconventional warfare of Vietnam. He led search-and-destroy missions, often at the front lines with his men, braving Viet Cong ambushes and the ever-present dangers of landmines. His men admired his hands-on leadership, knowing he would never ask them to do something he wouldn’t do himself.

Beyond combat, Patton IV was instrumental in developing counterinsurgency strategies, working closely with South Vietnamese forces to strengthen their capabilities. His efforts earned him multiple awards, including the Distinguished Service Cross and Silver Star.

After Vietnam, he continued his military career, commanding tank units during the Cold War and reinforcing NATO’s presence in Europe. He retired as a Major General, leaving behind a legacy of bravery, innovation, and dedication to his soldiers.

General George S. Patton IV may have lived in the shadow of his father, but he carved his own path as a fearless leader, a decorated Vietnam War hero, and a man who upheld the Patton name with honor.

Listen to Episode 3000 and discover more about Vietnam Vet General George S. Patton IV.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SGT Donald Sidney Skidgel.

Medal of Honor

Episode 2999 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SGT Donald Sidney Skidgel. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and the HistoryNet website.

Army Sergeant Donald Sidney Skidgel was a true American hero, earning the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery during the Vietnam War. Born in Maine, Skidgel enlisted in the U.S. Army as a cavalry scout, a role that required both courage and tactical skill.

On September 14, 1969, while serving with Troop D, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), near Song Be, Vietnam, Skidgel’s unit came under intense enemy fire from a well-fortified position. Without hesitation, he manned his APC mounted machine gun, exposing himself to enemy fire as he provided critical suppressive support.

Despite the overwhelming attack, Sergeant Skidgel refused to back down. As enemy soldiers closed in, he fought tenaciously, delivering accurate fire that kept his comrades safe. He repositioned multiple times, braving heavy gunfire to ensure maximum coverage. His actions allowed his fellow soldiers to regroup and counter the assault.

In the final moments of the battle, Skidgel continued fighting until he was fatally wounded. His selfless sacrifice saved countless lives and embodied the Army values of duty, honor, and courage.

For his gallantry, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, cementing his legacy as a Vietnam War hero. Today, his name is etched on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, ensuring his bravery is never forgotten.

Sergeant Donald Sidney Skidgel’s sacrifice remains an inspiration to soldiers and Americans alike—his heroism proving that courage under fire can change history.

Listen to Episode 2999 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SGT Donald Sidney Skidgel.

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The Big Red One

Episode 2998 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature an interview with U.S. Army Vietnam Vet Bob Shackelford. He served in Vietnam from March of 1968 to December of that year

During the interview, he disclosed that he was a highly skilled artillery survey specialist. He was originally assigned to the 9^th Infantry Division, however things changed the night he arrived at Long Binh. The base was under attack by the VC and all the arriving G.I.s had to hustled to building for safety.

Since he had a critically important job title of artillery survey specialist his orders were changed and he was sent to the 1^st Infantry Division because they were short of Artillery surveyors. Bob spent about half his time with artillery units in the field and then was called to run a special fire control operation in downtown Saigon for the rest of his tour.

Poor Bob, for his new demanding assignment, he was forced to bunk in a downtown Saigon hotel to be near his job site. Offsetting the benefits of being transferred from the jungles to the big city was the fact he had to dodge more sniper fire than he encountered in the jungles.

Bob served his country well both in Vietnam and his other assignments in Korea and Germany. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam. Bob left the Army after his tour in Vietnam.

He said that his time in the Army including his tour in Vietnam made him a better man and he said he would do it all over again if called.

Bob Shackelford is one of those Vietnam Vets who helps prove a point often made on this podcast – “The Vietnam Veteran Generation is as great as any that ever heeded the call of duty from out country.

Do yourself a favor and listen to his full interview on this podcast to better understand the Vietnam Veteran experience.

Listen to Episode 2998 and discover more about Vietnam Vet Bob Shackelford.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army 1LT George K. Sisler.

Medal of Honor

Episode 2997 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army 1LT George K. Sisler. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and the U.S. Army.

Sisler was the son of Mr. and Mrs. George R. Sisler of Dexter, Missouri. He was married to Jane and had two sons, David and James. Sisler also worked as an Alaskan smokejumper to fight wildfires in remote parts of the state.

Sisler served in the United States Air Force from 1958 to 1962. After attending Arkansas State University and joining the Sigma Pi fraternity, Sisler was commissioned in the Army from his birth city of Dexter, Missouri, in 1964.

During the Vietnam War, U.S. Army First Lieutenant George K. Sisler displayed extraordinary heroism that earned him the Medal of Honor. Serving as an intelligence officer with the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1LT Sisler led a long-range reconnaissance patrol deep into enemy-controlled territory on February 7, 1967.

His patrol was ambushed by a numerically superior Viet Cong force. Under intense fire, Sisler immediately took charge, calling in air support and directing his men into defensive positions. Despite the chaos, he provided covering fire, eliminating multiple enemy fighters and rallying his outnumbered unit.

When the enemy attempted to overrun their position, Sisler fearlessly charged forward with his rifle and grenades, personally engaging the attackers at close range. His valorous actions disrupted the enemy’s advance and gave his comrades precious time to regroup. Though wounded, he continued to fight until he was mortally struck while shielding his fellow soldiers.

For his gallantry and selfless leadership, 1LT George K. Sisler was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His courage and ultimate sacrifice exemplified the finest traditions of the U.S. Army and Special Forces. His legacy endures as a testament to the bravery of American soldiers in the Vietnam War.

Listen to Episode 2997 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army 1LT George K. Sisler.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps SGT Walter K. Singleton.

Medal of Honor

Episode 2996 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps SGT Walter K. Singleton. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Walter K. Singleton was a true American hero who sacrificed his life in Vietnam. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1944, Singleton enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and was deployed to Vietnam during the Vietnam War. His bravery and unwavering commitment to his fellow Marines earned him the nation’s highest military decoration—the Medal of Honor.

On March 24, 1967, during Operation Prairie III, SGT Singleton was serving as a machine gunner with Company A, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division. His unit came under heavy enemy fire from well-fortified Viet Cong positions near Gio Linh, Quang Tri Province. As the Marines were pinned down by a devastating barrage of machine-gun fire, Singleton fearlessly advanced alone to destroy the enemy stronghold.

Armed with a light machine gun, Singleton charged through intense gunfire, eliminating multiple enemy fighters. Despite suffering grievous wounds, he continued his one-man assault, allowing his fellow Marines to move forward. In his final act of heroism, he silenced a key enemy position, sacrificing his life to save his comrades. His selfless bravery and dedication to duty exemplified the highest traditions of the Marine Corps.

For his extraordinary valor, SGT Walter K. Singleton was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His legacy remains a testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who serve. His name is forever enshrined on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and honored by the United States Marine Corps.

Listen to Episode 2996 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps SGT Walter K. Singleton.

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Army soldier and Medal of Honor recipient Staff Sgt. Clifford Chester Sims, photographed when he was still in the 82nd Airborne Division. Sims earned his medal while fighting with the 101st Airborne Division near the city of Huế on Feb. 21, 1968.

Medal of Honor

Episode 2995 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SSG Clifford Chester Sims. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and the Task and Purpose website.

Staff Sergeant Clifford Chester Sims was a hero of the Vietnam War, known for his extraordinary bravery and selflessness. Born in Florida, Sims enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving with Company D, 2nd Battalion, 501st Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division. His actions on February 21, 1968, during the Battle of Hue, earned him the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration.

During an intense firefight, Sims and his unit advanced through a heavily fortified enemy zone. As they pushed forward, they came under relentless fire from North Vietnamese Army (NVA) forces. Undeterred, Sims led his men through the chaos, eliminating enemy positions with precise, fearless aggression.

At a critical moment, Sims heard the distinct click of a booby trap primed to detonate. With no time to warn his men, he threw himself onto the explosive device, shielding his comrades from the deadly blast. His instantaneous decision saved countless lives but cost him his own.

For his extraordinary gallantry, unwavering leadership, and ultimate sacrifice, Sims was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His legacy of courage remains an inspiration to all who serve.

Today, he is honored at Arlington National Cemetery, a reminder of the heroism displayed by American soldiers in Vietnam. The 101st Airborne Division continues to revere his name, ensuring that his selfless sacrifice is never forgotten.

Listen to Episode 2995 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SSG Clifford Chester Sims.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Air Force CPT Lance Sijan.

Medal of Honor

Episode 2994 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Air Force CPT Lance Sijan. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

Captain Lance P. Sijan, a Vietnam War Medal of Honor recipient, embodied the highest ideals of bravery, resilience, and sacrifice. A U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, Sijan flew an F-4 Phantom over North Vietnam when his aircraft was disabled by a malfunctioning bomb on November 9, 1967. Ejecting from his stricken jet, he suffered a fractured skull, broken leg, and mangled hand but still evaded capture for over six weeks, crawling through the jungle with unrelenting determination.

Eventually captured by the North Vietnamese Army (NVA), Sijan was taken to a prison camp, where he continuously resisted interrogation despite brutal torture. Severely weakened, he managed to escape, only to be recaptured and subjected to even harsher conditions. Refusing to betray his comrades, Sijan never revealed any military intelligence. His unbreakable spirit earned the respect of fellow prisoners, who recounted his incredible willpower and courage.

Transferred to the infamous Hỏa Lò Prison (Hanoi Hilton), his condition worsened due to malnutrition and untreated injuries. On January 22, 1968, Captain Lance Sijan succumbed to his wounds at just 25 years old.

For his extraordinary heroism, Sijan was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the first U.S. Air Force Academy graduate to receive this highest military decoration. His legacy endures through the Lance P. Sijan Award, honoring outstanding Air Force personnel who exemplify his courage, leadership, and selfless service.

Listen to Episode 2994 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Air Force CPT Lance Sijan.

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The Wall That Heals arriving at Sebring.

Volunteers and visitors paying respect to the veterans

Episode 2993 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature the Wall that Heals appearance in Sebring, Florida. Information featured in this episode comes from a story in the Highlands News-Sun newspaper. It was titled, The Wall That Heals at Sun’ N Lake remembers veterans forever and it was submitted by Gabriela Carrasco, a News-Sun Staff writer.

The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, is on display in Sebring, Florida, from March 6 to March 9, 2025. Hosted by the Sun ‘n Lake of Sebring Improvement District, this poignant exhibit honors the 58,281 service members who sacrificed their lives during the Vietnam War. Located at 3500 Edgewater Drive, the memorial is open to the public 24 hours a day, offering visitors a chance to reflect and pay their respects. This traveling exhibit not only commemorates the fallen but also educates attendees about the Vietnam War’s impact, fostering healing and understanding within the community.

More than 80 volunteers from the community assembled this memorial after it arrived. The Wall stands at 7 1/2 feet tall and is 375 feet wide. “I saw the flyer and thought it was needed, and even more so as the season begins when many people visit Sebring,” said Shirley Pearsen, who is from Michigan and mentioned how important the visit to The Wall is for her.

This project plans to educate, commemorate, and remind others of all the people who served the country, allowing local residents to honor their family members and the thousands of others who gave their lives.

After The Wall arrived, remarks were given by from Ray Bossert, general manager of Sebring and a retired colonel with the U.S. Army.

Listen to Episode 2993 and discover more about the appearance of the Wall that Heals in Sebring, Florida.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Navy Sea Bee Marvin Glenn Shields.

Medal of Honor

Episode 2992 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Navy Seabee Marvin Glenn Shields. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and a story on The Greater Good website.

Marvin Glenn Shields was a true American hero. Born in 1939 in Washington state, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1962 and became a Seabee, a member of the Navy’s Construction Battalion. Shields was deployed to Vietnam in 1965 with Seabee Team 1104, tasked with building infrastructure and supporting U.S. and allied forces.

On June 9, 1965, Shields and his team were stationed at Dong Xoai, a remote Special Forces camp, when it was attacked by a large Viet Cong force. Outnumbered and under heavy fire, Shields fought courageously, resupplying his fellow Seabees and Green Berets with ammunition and defending the compound. Despite being wounded twice, he refused to quit.

Realizing the dire situation, Shields volunteered to help destroy a Viet Cong machine gun nest that was devastating their position. With Green Beret Charles “Jack” Williams, he charged through intense enemy fire and successfully took out the enemy position. Shortly after, Shields was mortally wounded.

For his extraordinary heroism and selfless sacrifice, Marvin Glenn Shields was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, becoming the first and only U.S. Navy Seabee to receive this honor. His legacy lives on through the USS Marvin Shields (FF-1066) and numerous Seabee facilities named in his honor.

Shields’ bravery, dedication, and ultimate sacrifice exemplify the Seabee motto: “Can Do!” His story continues to inspire generations of U.S. Navy personnel and all who value courage and service.

Listen to Episode 2992 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Navy Seabee Marvin Glenn Shields.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army PFC Daniel J. Shea.

Medal of Honor

Episode 2991 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SGT William W. Seay. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and a story on The Victoria Cross Online website.

U.S. Army Private First Class Daniel J. Shea was a Medal of Honor recipient who displayed extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War. Born in Norwich, Connecticut, Shea served as a medic with Company C, 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 196th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. His courage in combat earned him the nation’s highest military honor.

On May 14, 1969, in Quang Tri Province, Vietnam, Shea’s unit came under intense enemy fire from a well-entrenched North Vietnamese Army force. As soldiers fell wounded, Shea rushed through a hail of bullets to provide medical aid. Despite the life-threatening danger, he moved from one fallen comrade to another, administering lifesaving treatment under relentless enemy fire.

When a second wave of gunfire erupted, Shea again exposed himself to danger, running through open terrain to reach the wounded. As he treated a soldier, he was struck by enemy fire. Though critically wounded, he refused evacuation and continued treating his comrades until he succumbed to his injuries.

For his gallant sacrifice, Shea was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His selfless actions embodied the Army values of duty, honor, and courage. His name is forever enshrined on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., a testament to his heroism and ultimate sacrifice for his fellow soldiers and his country.

Listen to Episode 2991 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army PFC Daniel J. Shea.