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Crom­well RSA Sec­ret­ary Peter Svens­son (left) and Viet­nam War Vet­eran Lewis Pagan stand out­side the Crom­well Memorial Events Centre, fol­low­ing the wreath-lay­ing ser­vice mark­ing the 60th anniversary of the battle of Long Tan.

Episode 3350 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how New Zealand honored one of its Vietnam Veterans. The story is titled: Viet­nam vet hon­oured dec­ades on. It appeared on the Central Otago News website and was submitted by Carys Trotter.

Trotter.reported that at 77 years old, Vietnam War veteran Lewis Pagan stood at the Cromwell War Memorial Gardens and laid a wreath during a powerful service honoring the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. For Mr. Pagan, the moment carried deep meaning. Like so many Vietnam Veterans, he had returned from war to a nation that often wanted its soldiers to “put away their medals and forget about it.” Decades later, their service and sacrifice are finally receiving the recognition they deserve.

The Battle of Long Tan, fought on August 18, 1966, remains one of the defining battles of the Vietnam War. Just 108 Australian and New Zealand soldiers faced a vastly larger Viet Cong and North Vietnamese force in a rain-soaked rubber plantation. Their survival depended in part on the extraordinary courage and skill of New Zealand’s 161 Field Battery, Royal New Zealand Artillery, which fired more than 1,000 rounds under brutal monsoon conditions to help hold the line until relief arrived. Eighteen Australians were killed and 24 wounded.

Mr. Pagan served in Vietnam in 1969 after intensive military training in New Zealand, Fiji and Malaya. As a member of Whiskey Company, based largely at Nui Dat, he experienced the harsh realities of jungle warfare, tropical disease, snakes, difficult terrain and the constant uncertainty of combat. He remembers his fellow soldiers as “such good mates,” united across backgrounds and cultures.

His story also reflects the painful homecoming experienced by many Vietnam War Veterans, who were met by protesters and often returned to civilian life without the recognition they had earned.

Today, honoring veterans like Lewis Pagan is more important than ever. The Vietnam Veteran Generation demonstrated extraordinary courage, loyalty, brotherhood and resilience. Their service must never be forgotten. We honor all our Vietnam Veterans for their courage, sacrifice, patriotism and unwavering dedication to their comrades and country.

Listen to episode 3350 and discover more about how New Zealand honored one of its Vietnam Veterans..

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Never forgotten: Lynne Moore, with her son Craig Moore, lays roses in
memory of her husband, Ray Moore, at Croydon war memorial

Episode 3349 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how Australian Vietnam War widows were treated. The story is titled: The knock on the door: 57 years on, a Vietnam War widow tells her story. It appeared on the City Life website and was submitted by Carolyn Webb.

Webb reported that the Vietnam War left a lasting mark on countless families, and the story of Private Ray Moore reminds us of the tremendous courage, sacrifice, and dedication of the Vietnam Veteran Generation. Ray Moore, only 23 years old, was killed in action by a Viet Cong sentry on July 24, 1969, leaving behind his young wife, Lynne, and their three small children.

For Lynne Moore, the famous 1969 moon landing is not a memory of human achievement. Instead, it brings back the painful memory of military officials arriving at her mother’s home with news that changed her life forever. Yet decades later, Lynne is determined that Ray’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Historian Anthony McAleer addresses the crowd at the Croydon service.

At a Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony at the Croydon war memorial, Lynne, her son Craig, and grandson Brendan placed roses in Ray’s memory. His story is featured in the book Vietnam – Long Hard Years Not Forgotten, written by Anthony McAleer, documenting the experiences of Lilydale region Vietnam veterans and their families.

Ray’s story also connects with fellow soldier Michael Hannaford, who was killed in December 1968 when his tank struck a mine. Their widows endured unimaginable hardship, including the painful treatment of veterans’ families after their husbands’ deaths.

These stories remind us that the Vietnam War Veterans were not simply soldiers—they were husbands, fathers, sons, and members of their communities. 523 Australians died in Vietnam, approximately 2,400 were wounded, and thousands returned home to a divided nation.

As Australia remembers the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, we honor every Vietnam veteran for their bravery, service, sacrifice, and patriotism. We can disagree about the politics of war while always honoring the men and women who courageously wore the uniform. Vietnam Veterans deserve our lasting respect, gratitude, and remembrance.

Listen to episode 3349 and discover more about how Australian Vietnam War widows were treated.

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Author and historian Anthony McAleer, Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson, Ken Mackenzie, OAM and Mike Pearce. (Stewart Chambers: 569991)

Episode 3348 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Australian author and historian Anthony McAleer’s new book Vietnam – Long Hard Years Not Forgotten. The story is titled: Vietnam War history documented from all perspectives. It appeared on the Mount Evelyn Star Mail website and was submitted by Mikayla van Loon.

van Loon reported that the Vietnam War left a profound and lasting mark on the Lilydale Shire, its families, residents, protesters, and—most importantly—the Australian Vietnam Veterans who served. A new book, Vietnam – Long Hard Years Not Forgotten, by historian Anthony McAleer and supported by the Lilydale RSL, preserves these powerful first-hand accounts for future generations.

From the district, 137 men and four civilians served during the Vietnam War, including the first Australian woman to travel to Vietnam during the conflict. Five local soldiers never returned home, while 40 veterans and community members are quoted in the book, which draws contributions from more than 100 people.

The stories reveal the extraordinary courage, sacrifice, service and resilience of Vietnam Veterans. Veteran Mike Pearce served 107 days in the jungle, celebrated his 21st birthday overseas, and returned home to a country where many veterans faced protests, hostility and rejection. His painful experience reflects the struggles endured by countless Vietnam veterans who were expected to leave the battlefield behind and immediately return to civilian life.

Veterans Bill Dobson and Ken Mackenzie OAM provide additional perspectives, highlighting the very different experiences of regular Army soldiers and National Servicemen. The book also explores the impact of television coverage, anti-war demonstrations, the fall of Saigon, and the difficult process of reintegration.

The story extends beyond the battlefield. In 1983, Dobson helped expose the use of Agent Orange-related chemicals on Lilydale Shire sporting grounds, contributing to statewide action.

Most importantly, Vietnam – Long Hard Years Not Forgotten ensures that the voices of those who lived through this turbulent period will not disappear. It is a powerful Vietnam War history, a tribute to Australian Vietnam Veterans, and a reminder that their service, sacrifice and courage deserve lasting respect, honor and remembrance. Their stories are not simply history—they are a vital part of Australia’s national legacy.

Listen to episode 3348 and discover more about Australian author and historian Anthony McAleer’s new book Vietnam – Long Hard Years Not Forgotten.

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Larry Harrison holds a photo of the Vietnam soldier sculpture the Washburn Rotary Club hopes to add to the town’s veterans memorial park this summer. The park has undergone many additions, but this would be the first specifically to honor those who served in Vietnam. (Paula Brewer | The County)

Washburn hopes to add a tribute to Vietnam veterans at its Area Veterans memorial this summer. The bronze statue would be dedicated to U.S. Army Cpl. Stuart A. Woodman of Washburn (left) and U.S. Army Cpl. Dellwyn Fitch of Perham, both of whom died while serving in Vietnam. (Courtesy of Larry Harrison)

Episode 3347 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature stories about the new Vietnam Veteran Memorial in Aroostook, ME. The stories are titled: Washburn ceremony to honor 38 Aroostook County Vietnam veterans with statue dedication, (WAGM) and Washburn undertakes its most ambitious veterans project yet,( The County).

It was reported that A powerful tribute to the Vietnam Veteran Generation is taking place in Washburn, Maine, where a newly commissioned statue will honor 38 Aroostook County men who served in the Vietnam War. The dedication ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park represents far more than the unveiling of a monument—it is a long-overdue welcome home for American veterans who answered their nation’s call during one of the most difficult chapters in U.S. military history.

Funded entirely through community donations, nearly $23,000 was raised by local residents, former community members, veterans, and supporters from across the country. The statue, produced overseas and transported thousands of miles before arriving in Washburn, stands as a lasting symbol of patriotism, sacrifice, courage, honor, and service.

The ceremony will also remember two Aroostook County heroes who gave their lives in Vietnam: Stuert Alen Woodman of Washburn and Dellwyn Allen Fitch of Perham. Their names and sacrifices remain an important part of the community’s history and the enduring legacy of the Vietnam War.

Larry Harrison, a 20-year Air Force veteran and longtime supporter of the memorial park, understands the importance of honoring these veterans. He witnessed the heartbreaking consequences of the Vietnam War while serving on the Honor Guard at Loring Air Force Base, participating in military funerals for Vietnam veterans.

Many Vietnam veterans returned home as young men in their late teens and early twenties without receiving the respect, gratitude, and recognition they deserved. Today, as these veterans reach their 70s, 80s, and beyond, communities across America are finally making sure their service is remembered.

The Vietnam Veterans of America, their families, and countless supporters continue to preserve this history. This Washburn memorial reminds us that every Vietnam veteran deserves our deepest gratitude and respect. Their courage, sacrifice, and dedication helped shape America, and their legacy must never be forgotten. Welcome home, Vietnam veterans—and thank you for your service.

Listen to episode 3347 and discover more about the new Vietnam Veteran Memorial in Aroostook, ME.

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Eugene “Red” McDaniel, Vietnam POW and Living Legend of Alexandria, Dies at 94

Episode 3346 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature the obituary of Vietnam War hero Navy Captain Eugene “Red” McDaniel. The obituary is titled: Eugene “Red” McDaniel, Vietnam POW and Living Legend of Alexandria, Dies at 94. It appeared on the the Zebra Press website and was submitted by Mary Wadland, Editor in Chief of the Zebra Press.

Wadland reported that Capt. Eugene “Red” McDaniel lived a life that stands as a powerful testament to the courage, sacrifice, patriotism, and greatness of America’s Vietnam Veterans. A highly decorated U.S. Navy pilot and Vietnam War POW, McDaniel survived nearly six years of captivity after his A-6A Intruder was shot down near Hanoi in 1967.

During his 81st combat mission, McDaniel was captured and imprisoned in North Vietnam, including the infamous Hanoi Hilton. For nearly three years, his wife and children did not know whether he was alive. Despite brutal treatment, torture, isolation, and unimaginable hardship, McDaniel refused to surrender his faith or his courage. His extraordinary conduct as a prisoner of war earned him the Navy Cross, two Silver Stars, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, three Bronze Stars with Combat “V,” and two Purple Hearts.

Released in March 1973, McDaniel returned home and continued serving his country. His mission did not end with his release from captivity. For more than four decades, he became a tireless advocate for American POWs, MIAs, and missing Vietnam service members, seeking answers for those who never returned home.

McDaniel also dedicated himself to his Alexandria, Virginia, community, helping establish organizations focused on national defense and creating a home-care service for seniors. His life demonstrated that service to America can take many forms.

His story also reminds us of the remarkable strength of the Vietnam Veteran generation. These men and women answered their nation’s call, endured combat, loss, captivity, and controversy, and carried their responsibilities with extraordinary determination. Their sacrifices should never be forgotten.

Capt. Eugene “Red” McDaniel died on August 7, 2026, at age 94. His legacy will live on through his family, his military service, his advocacy for POW/MIA remembrance, and the countless Americans inspired by his courage.

We honor Capt. McDaniel and all Vietnam Veterans who served America with courage, dignity, and unwavering devotion to duty.

American Defense Institute (ADI)

9316 Craig Ave.

Alexandria, VA 22309

Listen to episode 3346 and discover more about the passing of Vietnam War hero Navy Captain Eugene “Red” McDaniel.

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Portarlington’s Peter Nash. Photo: Matthew O’Donnell/Hails + Shine.

Episode 3345 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Peter Nash, the Australian Vietnam Vet. who opened up about the War. The story is titled: ‘No one ever asked’: Portarlington Vietnam veteran reflects 60 years on from Long Tan. It appeared on the Bellarine Times website and was submitted by Tahlia Sinclair.

Sinclair reported that Vietnam Veteran Peter Nash carried the memories of war home with him—but, like so many members of the Vietnam Veteran generation, he rarely spoke about what he experienced. Conscripted at just 20 years old, Nash was among approximately 15,000 Australian national servicemen who served in Vietnam. Deployed in June 1966, he spent a year facing the realities of the Vietnam War.

Some of his most enduring memories came from 18 August 1966—the Battle of Long Tan, one of the most significant battles in Australian military history. For three and a half hours, just 108 Australian and New Zealand soldiers fought an estimated 2,500 Viet Cong and North Vietnamese troops in torrential monsoonal rain. Nash remembers the desperate struggle for survival, the critical role of Australian artillery, and the heartbreaking days spent burying the dead.

Like countless Vietnam veterans, Nash returned home to a nation that did not always understand or appreciate their service. Many veterans remained silent, carrying their experiences alone. Recognition finally began to arrive with the 1987 Australian Vietnam Forces Welcome Home Parade, when approximately 22,000 Vietnam veterans marched through Sydney.

Nearly 60,000 Australians served in the Vietnam War, and around 500 Australians were killed. Their courage, sacrifice, resilience, and commitment deserve our deepest respect.

As we mark Vietnam Veterans Day and the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, we honor Peter Nash and every Australian who served in Vietnam. These men and women answered the call of duty, endured unimaginable challenges, and carried the burden of war long after returning home.

The Vietnam Veteran generation is a generation of courage, sacrifice, duty, and honor. Their service matters, their stories matter, and their legacy must never be forgotten. We remember. We honor. We thank all our Vietnam Veterans.

Listen to episode 3345 and discover more about the Australian Vietnam Vet. Who told his story.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.