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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.

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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.

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Col. Asan Q. Bui is the director of cyberspace and technology at Headquarters Air Force Reserve Command, Warner Robins Air Force Base, Georgia. He entered the U.S. Air Force in May 2000 through the ROTC at Louisiana State University, where he was commissioned as a second lieutenant and received a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

Episode 3309 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature an opinion piece about Vietnamese Refugee & U.S. Air Force Colonel Asan Q. Bui’s advice to America. The piece is titled: My family chose America. Now I’m a US Air Force colonel. and it appeared in USA Today. It submitted by COL Asan Q. Bui       .

Bui reported in his opinion piece that as America celebrates its 250th anniversary, the inspiring story of U.S. Air Force Col. Asan Q. Bui reminds us why the United States remains a beacon of freedom and opportunity. His remarkable journey began in the chaotic aftermath of the Vietnam War when his parents, along with five young children, fled communist-controlled Vietnam in 1975. His father, who had fought beside American forces as a South Vietnamese soldier, chose freedom over oppression, risking everything aboard an overcrowded fishing boat in the South China Sea. After four perilous days, a U.S. military vessel rescued the family, and shortly afterward Col. Bui was born at Camp Asan, Guam, where Vietnamese refugees began new lives under America’s protection.

That rescue became the foundation of an extraordinary American success story. Col. Bui rose from refugee beginnings to become a colonel in the United States Air Force, serving his adopted nation with distinction through multiple deployments in support of Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and Inherent Resolve, while also helping Americans during devastating natural disasters.

His story reflects the greatness of America—a nation built not upon ancestry but upon timeless principles of liberty, opportunity, personal responsibility, and freedom. It also honors the Vietnam Veteran generation and America’s allies who stood together in defense of those ideals. The sacrifices of American service members and South Vietnamese soldiers gave countless families the chance to escape tyranny and build new lives.

Col. Bui’s life demonstrates that the American dream remains alive for those willing to embrace hard work, service, and gratitude. As the nation marks 250 years of independence, his journey stands as a powerful tribute to America’s enduring ideals and to the courage, sacrifice, and lasting legacy of the Vietnam Veterans who helped preserve freedom for millions.

Listen to episode 3309 and discover more about Vietnamese Refugee & U.S. Air Force Colonel Asan Q. Bui’s advice to America.

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Episode 3308 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a press release about the new book and its author – How America Won the Vietnam War. The press release is titled: Author challenges decades of Vietnam War narratives. It submitted by Mack Payne          .

Payne reported in his press release that his life reflects a deep commitment to honoring the service and sacrifice of the Vietnam Veteran generation. A proud U.S. Army veteran, he completed two tours during the Vietnam War, first serving as a supply officer with the 4th Infantry Division near Pleiku before returning to combat as a Cobra gunship pilot with the 101st Airborne Division, flying dangerous missions near Hue and Khe Sanh. His experiences gave him a profound appreciation for the courage, professionalism, and dedication displayed by the men and women who served in Vietnam.

Determined to preserve their legacy, Payne authored Vietnam Veteran Memoirs and Conversations with Vietnam Heroes, celebrating the remarkable stories of those who answered their nation’s call. In 2014, he expanded that mission by launching the Vietnam Veteran News podcast, which has grown into an extraordinary historical archive with more than 3,300 episodes featuring veterans, historians, and authors. Through these interviews, countless firsthand accounts of bravery, sacrifice, and service have been preserved for future generations.

Years of research convinced Payne that many long-held beliefs about the Vietnam War deserve closer examination. He argues that Vietnam veterans were never failures and that the Americans whose names are engraved on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial gave their lives in honorable service, not for a losing cause. His latest book, How America Won the Vietnam War, presents a detailed examination of battlefield successes achieved by American and South Vietnamese forces while challenging conventional interpretations shaped by politics and media coverage.

Above all, Payne’s work stands as a tribute to every Vietnam veteran. Their courage under fire, unwavering sense of duty, and enduring resilience represent one of the greatest generations of American warriors, whose service and sacrifice continue to deserve the nation’s deepest respect and lasting gratitude.

Listen to episode 3308 and discover more about the new book and its author – How America Won the Vietnam War.

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Episode 3307 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the case where thieves stole $100,000 from a Vietnam Veteran. The featured story is titled: Vietnam Veteran’s VA Caregiver Pleads Guilty After Stealing More Than $100,000. It appeared on the Military.com website and was submitted by Kevin Damask.

Damask reported in his story that the overwhelming majority of Vietnam War veterans served their country with honor, courage, and integrity. Sadly, this disturbing case from Virginia demonstrates how one vulnerable Vietnam veteran became the victim of greed instead of receiving the care and respect he had earned through his military service.

Melissa Diana Simmons was hired through the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide in-home care for an elderly Vietnam veteran. Rather than protecting his well-being, prosecutors say she and her boyfriend, James Patrick Brown, exploited his declining health and dementia, draining more than $100,000 from his bank account through forged checks, unauthorized withdrawals, and misuse of his VA benefits.

Bank employees became increasingly alarmed as the once cheerful veteran appeared confused, frightened, malnourished, and neglected. Their vigilance ultimately helped expose the alleged fraud after they recognized the dramatic deterioration in his physical and mental condition. Adult Protective Services later determined the veteran suffered from dementia, and he was eventually hospitalized with serious medical complications.

Federal investigators allege Simmons continued stealing the veteran’s VA benefit payments even while he was recovering in the hospital, forging his signature and spending thousands of dollars with Brown. Simmons has now pleaded guilty to forgery of government checks, admitting her role in the scheme.

Although this heartbreaking case reveals the vulnerability of some aging veterans, it also highlights the dedication of bank employees, investigators, Adult Protective Services, and law enforcement officials who intervened to protect a man who had once answered his nation’s call to serve.

America’s Vietnam veterans deserve compassionate care, dignity, and gratitude—not exploitation. Their sacrifices earned them the nation’s highest respect, and society has a responsibility to ensure they are protected during their later years.

Listen to episode 3307 and discover more about the case where thieves stole $100,000 from a Vietnam Veteran.

Green Township Huey before restoration

Episode 3306 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the Vietnam War Huey being restored at Green Township, OH. The featured story is titled: the Vietnam War Huey being restored at Green Township, OH. It appeared on the WLWT5 website and was submitted by Brian Hamrick.

Hamrick reported that the restoration of a Vietnam-era Huey helicopter in Green Township is far more than a preservation project—it is a powerful tribute to the Vietnam Veteran Generation and the sacrifices they made during one of America’s most challenging conflicts. The iconic Huey, recovered from an Alabama surplus, will soon become the centerpiece of Veterans Park, serving as a lasting reminder of the courage, dedication, and resilience of those who served in Vietnam.

For Vietnam veterans, the unmistakable sound of a Huey helicopter instantly brings back memories of a war fought under difficult and dangerous conditions. The aircraft was one of the defining symbols of the Vietnam War, transporting troops, evacuating the wounded, delivering supplies, and supporting countless missions. This particular helicopter still bears marks from its wartime service, including what may be bullet holes from enemy fire, providing a tangible connection to history.

VFW Post 10-380 Commander Mike Donnely, a Vietnam veteran himself, emphasized the importance of preserving this piece of history so future generations can better understand the story of those who served. His vision reflects a broader effort to ensure that the contributions of Vietnam veterans are never forgotten.

Adding a personal touch to the project, restoration leader Charlie Wilke once flew aboard Huey helicopters during his service in Vietnam. His involvement helps bring authenticity and meaning to the restoration effort.

With fundraising underway to cover the estimated $100,000 restoration cost, the community is working together to honor the Vietnam Veteran Generation. Once completed and installed by Memorial Day next year, the Huey will stand as a proud symbol of service, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of America’s Vietnam veterans.

Listen to episode 3306 and discover more about the Vietnam War Huey being restored at Green Township, OH.

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Vietnam Vet Larry Lich’s truck

Larry Lich and his truck

Episode 3305 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Vietnam Vet Larry Lich and his Vietnam War truck project. The featured story is titled: Vintage Army truck a ‘small token’ to honor veterans. It appeared on the WoodTV8 website and was submitted by Adriana Doria.

Doria reported that the story of Vietnam veteran Larry Lich serves as a powerful reminder of the often-overlooked heroes of the Vietnam War: the truck drivers who kept America’s military moving under some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable. While infantrymen fought on the front lines, thousands of truck drivers like Lich traveled hazardous roads every day, delivering the supplies, equipment, fuel, ammunition, and even the fallen heroes that sustained the war effort.

At just 19 years old, Lich volunteered for service and spent 14 months in Vietnam driving Army trucks through a war zone. His duties were difficult and emotionally taxing. He hauled everything from vital military cargo to the remains of American servicemen being sent home to their families. The memories of those missions remain with him decades later.

Like many Vietnam veterans, Lich returned home to a nation deeply divided over the war. Instead of gratitude, many veterans faced hostility, misunderstanding, and rejection. Yet despite those hardships, they continued to serve their communities and carry themselves with dignity and patriotism.

Today, Lich’s restored Army truck stands as more than a vehicle. It is a symbol of sacrifice, service, and remembrance. By displaying the truck and honoring those who served, he pays tribute to the countless truck drivers and transportation troops who risked their lives on dangerous convoy routes throughout Vietnam.

The greatness of Vietnam War truck drivers lies not only in their courage under fire but also in their unwavering commitment to their fellow soldiers. Their efforts kept supplies flowing, saved lives, and helped make every military operation possible. They truly were the lifeline of the American war effort in Vietnam.

Listen to episode 3305 and discover more about Vietnam Vet Larry Lich and his Vietnam War truck project.

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Vietnam War veterans memorial on the Chippewa Valley tribute trail.

Building sold by VFW Post 10405 to support Vietnam War veterans memorial on the Chippewa Valley tribute trail.

Episode 3304 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature stories about the Vietnam War Veterans Memorial that was added to the Chippewa Valley tribute trail. The featured stories are titled: Veterans Tribute Trail plans Vietnam memorial with Altoona VFW donation and Vietnam War The Chippewa Valley Veterans Tribute Trail in River Prairie Park has become home to a powerful new memorial honoring the service and sacrifice of Vietnam War veterans. Thanks to the generosity of VFW Post 10405 in Altoona, which donated $160,000 from the sale of its building, a lasting tribute has been created to recognize the brave men and women who served during one of America’s most challenging conflicts. The stories were submitted by Toby Mohr.

The memorial features a granite wall inscribed with the names of local service members who were killed or remain missing in action during the Vietnam War. A life-sized statue of a kneeling soldier touching the wall symbolizes remembrance, respect, and gratitude. Additional monuments will share the stories of individual veterans, ensuring their courage and sacrifices are never forgotten.

This memorial stands as a reminder that Vietnam veterans answered their nation’s call with honor, duty, and unwavering commitment. They served under difficult circumstances, often facing danger, hardship, and uncertainty far from home. Their dedication helped protect freedom and reflected the highest traditions of military service.

Community leaders describe the memorial as a tribute long overdue, made possible through the support of veterans, families, organizations, and local citizens. The project demonstrates the deep respect that continues to grow for the Vietnam Veteran generation.

The memorial will be officially dedicated on July 2 with a ceremony featuring a brass quintet, a Missing Man flyover, and a patriotic display of American and Wisconsin flags. It will serve as a place of reflection, education, and gratitude for generations to come, honoring the greatness, courage, and enduring legacy of all Vietnam veterans.

Listen to episode 3304 and discover more about the Vietnam War Veterans Memorial that was added to Chippewa Valley tribute trail.

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Col. Gwendolyn O’Keefe presents retired Lt. Col. Susan Backs with the O2M3 Medallion during a ceremony on Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, June 4. The Order of Military Medical Merit (O2M3) is a prestigious U.S. Army private organization established in 1982 to recognize individuals who have made significant, sustained contributions to the Army Medical Department.

Susan Backs in Vietnam

Episode 3303 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the award presented to Vietnam Vet and Army nurse retired LTC Susan Backs.. The featured story is titled: Vietnam-Era Army Nurse honored with the Order of Military Medical Merit.. It appeared on the We are the DVIDS website and was submitted by Maria Christina Yager, a writer for the Munson Army Health Center Public Affairs Office..

Yager reported in his story that the story of retired Lt. Col. Susan Backs is a powerful reminder of the courage, dedication, and sacrifice displayed by Army nurses during the Vietnam War. Honored with the prestigious Order of Military Medical Merit at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, Backs represents a generation of military medical professionals who served with extraordinary bravery under the most challenging conditions.

Joining the Army in 1970, Backs volunteered for duty in Vietnam and served at the 24th Evacuation Hospital, a major trauma center that received wounded soldiers directly from battlefield MEDEVAC helicopters. Unlike many medical personnel who remained within hospital facilities, Backs frequently flew into combat zones aboard helicopters and traveled to remote compounds to provide lifesaving care. Her willingness to go wherever she was needed exemplified the fearless spirit of Army nurses in Vietnam.

Army nurses were often the first line of medical care for wounded service members, working long hours under intense pressure while witnessing the horrors of war firsthand. Despite the dangers, they remained steadfast in their mission to save lives and comfort the injured. Susan Backs embodied these qualities throughout her 22-year Army career.

Even after retiring in 1992, Backs continued serving by mentoring others, preserving Army medical history, and educating future generations about the vital role Army nurses played during wartime. Her efforts have helped ensure that the contributions of military nurses are never forgotten.

The recognition of Lt. Col. Susan Backs highlights the greatness of all Army nurses who served in Vietnam. Their compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to duty saved countless lives and remain an inspiring chapter in the proud history of Army Medicine.

Listen to Episode 3303 and discover more about the award presented to Vietnam Vet and Army nurse retired LTC Susan Backs.

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Marine Colonel John Ripley

Episode 3302 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the the Dong Ha Bridge story of incredible bravery by Marine Colonel John Ripley, Jr..The featured story is titled: Exclusive: 54 Years After Dong Ha Bridge, John Ripley’s Medal of Honor Highlights a Legacy of Service – 54 years after Dong Ha Bridge, Tom Ripley tells Military.com why his father’s Medal of Honor means.. It appeared on the We are the Military.com website and was submitted by Douglas Lindsay.

Lindsay reported in his story that more than 54 years after his extraordinary actions at the Dong Ha Bridge, Marine Col. John Ripley was honored with the Medal of Honor, a recognition that also shines a light on the courage, sacrifice, and teamwork of the Vietnam Veteran generation. While Ripley’s heroic feat has become one of the most celebrated acts of leadership in Marine Corps history, his family emphasized that the award represents far more than one man.

During the North Vietnamese Easter Offensive on April 2, 1972, then-Maj. Ripley faced overwhelming odds as more than 50,000 enemy troops and over 100 tanks prepared to cross the strategically vital Dong Ha Bridge. Understanding that the bridge had to be destroyed to stop the invasion, Ripley repeatedly crawled beneath the structure, carrying explosives by hand while enemy forces closed in. Supported by brave South Vietnamese Marines who held the line under intense pressure, he successfully demolished the bridge, delaying the enemy advance and allowing U.S. airpower and naval gunfire to strike.

At the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes ceremony, Ripley’s son, Tom, reminded attendees that his father always believed that no great accomplishment is achieved alone. The Medal of Honor, he said, belongs not only to John Ripley, but also to the Marines, sailors, South Vietnamese service members, and military families who shared the burden of war.

The story of Dong Ha Bridge reflects the greatness of Vietnam Veterans. Faced with impossible challenges, they displayed courage, determination, and selfless devotion to duty. Their legacy is one of teamwork, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to their fellow warriors and to the mission.

Listen to Episode 3302 and discover more about the Dong Ha Bridge story of incredible bravery by Marine Colonel John Ripley.