Vietnam Veteran News

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Ambassador Pham Quang Vinh, former Deputy Foreign Minister and President of the Vietnam-US Society, joins US partners at the grant announcement ceremony.

Episode 3286 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature stories about U.S. and Vietnam cooperation on War aftermath issues. The featured stories are titled: Vietnam hands over more MIA remains to US and New US-funded initiative boosts search for Vietnam war missing persons. They appeared on the Vietnam Net Global website and were submitted by Tran Thuong.

Thuong reported that the continuing efforts to account for those missing from the Vietnam War represent one of the most meaningful humanitarian missions shared by Vietnam and the United States. On April 29, at the 172nd repatriation ceremony in Da Nang, Vietnam transferred a set of remains believed to belong to a U.S. serviceman who had been listed as missing in action. The remains were recovered during a joint excavation near Hue and will undergo further forensic analysis in Hawaii to determine their identity.

This repatriation reflects decades of cooperation that began after the 1973 Paris Peace Accords. Since then, approximately 740 U.S. personnel missing in Vietnam have been identified and returned to their families. Despite increasing challenges such as limited information, difficult recovery locations, natural disasters, and changing landscapes, both nations remain committed to this important work.

Further strengthening these efforts, the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council Institute announced a grant exceeding $450,000 to support Vietnam’s search and identification of those still missing from wartime conflicts. Through the Vietnam Wartime Accounting Initiative, advanced DNA technology, specialized training, improved forensic capabilities, and logistical support will help accelerate identification efforts and expand humanitarian cooperation.

The mission extends beyond locating American service members. It also supports searches for missing Vietnamese soldiers, unexploded ordnance clearance, dioxin remediation, and assistance for communities affected by the war. Over the years, Vietnam and the United States have achieved significant milestones, including environmental cleanup projects, support for Agent Orange victims, and the recovery of more than 990 sets of U.S. military remains.

These accomplishments demonstrate how former adversaries can work together to heal the wounds of war, promote reconciliation, and build a stronger partnership based on trust, compassion, and shared humanitarian values.

Listen to Episode 3286 and discover more about U.S. and Vietnam cooperation on War aftermath issues.

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Photo By Cpl. Alexander Devereux | Courtesy photo of Don Bumgarner at Hill C-4 in front of an ammo bunker Vietnam, Jan…. read more

Episode 3285 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Marine Vietnam Vet Don Bumgarner. The featured story is titled: From the Bunker – Lance Cpl. Don Bumgarner. It was submitted by Cpl. Alexander Devereux and it appeared on the DVIDS website.

Devereux reported that U.S. Marine Corps veteran Don Bumgarner’s story is a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience that defined the Vietnam veteran generation. Serving as a mortarman with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division from 1967 to 1968, Bumgarner’s journey began when he enlisted in the Marine Corps as a teenager during the height of the Vietnam War. Like many young Americans of his era, he answered the call to serve without knowing the hardships that lay ahead.

After boot camp and training, Bumgarner deployed to Vietnam, where he quickly faced the brutal realities of combat. He endured ambushes, artillery barrages, sniper fire, minefields, and the constant threat of death. Along the way, he witnessed the loss of fellow Marines, including close friends Jim Cooper and others who made the ultimate sacrifice. These painful experiences left lasting memories but also strengthened the bond shared among those who served.

Despite the dangers and hardships, Bumgarner and his fellow Marines carried out their missions with determination and honor. Their bravery under fire exemplified the dedication and selflessness of Vietnam veterans, many of whom were barely out of their teens when they entered combat.

After returning home, Bumgarner continued serving his community through a successful 25-year career with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. His life reflects the perseverance that characterized so many Vietnam veterans who built meaningful lives despite the scars of war.

Today, Bumgarner honors his fellow Marines through reunions and storytelling, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten. His story stands as a tribute to the greatness of Vietnam veterans—a generation of warriors whose courage, loyalty, and devotion to duty continue to inspire Americans and Marines alike. Semper Fidelis.

Listen to Episode 3285 and discover more about Marine Vietnam Vet Don Bumgarner.

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Vietnam veteran Benno Cleveland is Iñupiaq, one of the Indigenous peoples of the Arctic. He holds an eagle feather as he stands in the cemetery where he plans to be buried.

Episode 3284 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how Agent Orange is killing Alaska Vietnam Vets. The featured story is titled: Loved ones remember another kind of war casualty: veterans sickened by Agent Orange. It was submitted by Shelby Herbert and it appeared on the WUSF website.

Herbert reported that the story of Alaska’s Vietnam veterans is one of extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and perseverance. Men like Benno Cleveland and James Akhivana answered their nation’s call during the Vietnam War, serving with honor despite the dangers they faced both on the battlefield and long after they returned home.

Cleveland, an Iñupiaq veteran from Alaska, earned two Purple Hearts for wounds received in combat. Yet like countless Vietnam veterans, his battle did not end when the war ended. Exposure to Agent Orange, the herbicide used extensively during the conflict, left him facing serious health challenges decades later, including heart disease and other chronic illnesses. Despite these burdens, Cleveland remains focused on honoring those who never made it home and those who have since passed away from war-related illnesses.

His friend James Akhivana, remembered for his kindness and leadership, struggled with the lasting effects of combat and eventually passed away after years of health complications. His widow recalls a man deeply affected by his wartime experiences but devoted to his fellow soldiers and family.

Their stories reflect a broader reality across Alaska, which has the highest number of veterans per capita in the nation. Many Alaska veterans sought healing in the state’s vast wilderness, finding peace among its mountains, forests, and waters. Yet many continued to suffer from the hidden wounds of war and Agent Orange exposure.

On Memorial Day and every day, Alaska’s Vietnam veterans deserve recognition for their unwavering service and sacrifice. Their generation displayed remarkable bravery, endured hardships few can imagine, and helped defend the freedoms Americans enjoy today. Their legacy of duty, resilience, and patriotism continues to inspire future generations.

Listen to Episode 3284 and discover more about how Agent Orange is killing Alaska Vietnam Vets

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David Densmore’s high school diploma

Episode 3283 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how Vietnam Vet David Densmore finally received his high school diploma. The featured story is titled: Vietnam War veteran from Pasadena gets high school diploma, fulfilling dream decades later. It was submitted by Kim Dacey and it appeared on Kim Dacey.

Dacey reported that the story of David Densmore is a powerful reminder of the sacrifice, courage, and character of the Vietnam Veteran Generation. At just 17 years old, Densmore left Northeast High School in Pasadena in 1968 and enlisted in the United States Marines to serve his country during the Vietnam War. Like so many young Americans of his generation, he put duty before personal goals, willingly stepping into danger to defend freedom and pursue peace.

Serving in Vietnam forced Densmore to grow up quickly. Although his military service was cut short after a serious lung infection required him to return home, he carried on with life after his honorable discharge in 1970. He worked hard, raised a family, and never regretted answering the call to serve. Yet one unfinished chapter remained — earning the high school diploma he sacrificed to wear the uniform of his country.

Decades later, thanks to a little-known law recognizing veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, Densmore finally received his diploma from Anne Arundel County Public Schools. Wearing a cap and gown, the 76-year-old veteran proudly completed a dream that had been delayed for nearly six decades.

His emotional achievement symbolizes the resilience and humility of the Vietnam Veteran Generation. These men and women sacrificed youth, education, and personal ambitions in service to America. Densmore’s story stands as a moving tribute to a generation that answered the nation’s call with honor, courage, and lifelong pride.

Listen to Episode 3283 and discover more about how Vietnam Vet David Densmore finally received his high school diploma.

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Episode 3282 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the Indiana Rangers quest for unit recognition for Vietnam War service. The featured story is titled: Indiana Rangers fight for unit recognition for serving in Vietnam War. It was submitted by Garrett Bergquist and it appeared on KRTV.

Bergquist reported that the story of Company D, 151st Infantry — known as the Indiana Rangers — stands as one of the most remarkable yet underrecognized chapters of the Vietnam War. Deployed to Vietnam in late 1968, the Indiana National Guard unit was unique because it served as the only National Guard combat unit sent overseas intact during the conflict. Trained as Airborne and Ranger-qualified soldiers, the Indiana Rangers carried out dangerous reconnaissance missions in small five-man teams deep in the jungle, often behind enemy lines near the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

Their courage and effectiveness in combat earned extraordinary recognition on an individual level. During their year-long deployment, members of the unit received more than 500 medals, including 19 Silver Stars, 175 Bronze Stars, and 110 Purple Hearts — the highest number of individual awards earned by any Army infantry unit within a single year. Despite these accomplishments, the unit itself never received an official military unit citation, something surviving members believe is long overdue.

Veterans such as Donnie Holland and Gary Bussell continue to campaign for a Presidential Unit Citation or Valorous Unit Award to honor not only the combat soldiers, but also the support personnel whose work kept the Rangers alive in the field. The memories of six fallen Indiana Rangers remain central to their mission. Recent support from Congresswoman Victoria Spartz and members of Indiana’s Congressional delegation has renewed hope that the Indiana Rangers may finally receive the collective recognition their extraordinary service deserves.

Listen to Episode 3282 and discover more about the Indiana Rangers quest for unit recognition for Vietnam War service.

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In September 1968, U.S. Army helicopters transported members of the Montagnard nation to a refugee camp during the Vietnam War. Many Montagnards later settled in North Carolina. photograph by ASSOCIATED PRESS/HENRI HUET

Before she died in 2021, H Ju Nie’s talent for backstrap weaving helped keep the Montagnard tradition alive. On a loom built by her husband, Nie designed intricate blankets, clothing, baby carriers, and bags — each a work of art. photograph by Jerry Wolford

Montagnard Art

Episode 3281 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the Montagnards in North Carolina. The featured story is titled: The 1980s: Dream Weavers. It was submitted by Philip Gerard and it appeared on the Our State website.

Gerard reported that the story of the Montagnards and other Southeast Asian refugees who came to North Carolina after the Vietnam War is one of sacrifice, loyalty, survival, and renewal. Following the fall of Saigon in 1975, thousands of refugees sought safety in the United States, including the fiercely independent Montagnards from Vietnam’s Central Highlands and Hmong fighters from Laos. These groups had stood shoulder to shoulder with American forces during the war, often risking everything in support of U.S. missions.

The Montagnards made extraordinary contributions to the American war effort. Fighting alongside U.S. Special Forces, they served as fearless jungle fighters, scouts, and protectors in some of the war’s most dangerous regions. Their loyalty became legendary among Green Berets. Special Forces veteran George Clark called them “the best warriors in the world,” praising the courage that inspired American troops in battle. Tragically, their alliance with the United States came at a terrible cost. Nearly 200,000 Montagnards lost their lives, and most of their villages were destroyed during the conflict.

After the war, many Montagnards faced imprisonment, persecution, and cultural suppression under the new Vietnamese government. Yet they rebuilt their lives in North Carolina, especially in Greensboro, which became home to the largest Montagnard community outside Vietnam. Families preserved their traditions through weaving, art, and entrepreneurship while enriching their new communities. Their journey reflects the enduring spirit of allies who sacrificed greatly for America and later strengthened the nation they once fought beside.

Listen to Episode 3281 and discover more about the Montagnards in North Carolina.

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F 104 Starfighter in Vietnam

Episode 3280 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the F-104 Starfighters in Vietnam. The featured story is titled: The Starfighter’s Worst Day: The two USAF F-104 pilots involved in Iron Hand escort missions that were Shot Down on the Same Day by North Vietnamese SAMs. It was submitted by William Cobb.

Cobb reported that The Lockheed Lockheed F-104 Starfighter was one of the most advanced and demanding fighter aircraft of its era. Designed as a supersonic air superiority fighter, the F-104 became famous for its blistering speed, powerful M-61 Vulcan cannon, and record-breaking performance. During the late 1950s, the Starfighter set world records for speed, altitude, and time-to-climb, establishing itself as a revolutionary aircraft in military aviation history. Though only about 300 were procured by the U.S. Air Force, the aircraft earned a legendary reputation among pilots for both its incredible capabilities and unforgiving nature.

During the Vietnam War, the F-104C deployed to Da Nang in 1965. Its early missions focused on escorting EC-121 Constellation airborne warning aircraft during dangerous “Big Eye” radar operations near North Vietnam. The Starfighter later flew ground attack and Iron Hand escort missions, protecting Wild Weasel aircraft tasked with suppressing enemy surface-to-air missile sites. Its speed made it highly effective in these dangerous roles, but the missions carried enormous risks.

On Aug. 1, 1966, the Starfighter community suffered devastating losses when two pilots from the 435th Fighter Squadron were shot down by North Vietnamese SA-2 missiles during combat operations near Thai Nguyen. Captain John Charles Kwortnik and Lt. Col. Finney were both lost within hours of each other. Their sacrifice reflected the extreme dangers faced by American aviators during the Vietnam War. Both men remained listed as Missing in Action for years before being officially declared killed in action in 1985. Today, they are remembered with honor at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, where their courage and service continue to inspire future generations.

Listen to Episode 3280 and discover more about the F-104 Starfighters in Vietnam.

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Arlington National Cemetery

Episode 3279 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Memorial Day in the USA. Information in this episode come from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.

Memorial Day stands as one of America’s most solemn and meaningful national observances, dedicated to honoring the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces who gave their lives in service to the nation. Observed annually on the last Monday in May, the holiday is marked by ceremonies, cemetery visits, memorial tributes, and the placing of American flags on the graves of fallen service members. While many Americans recognize the day as the unofficial beginning of summer, its true significance lies in remembrance, sacrifice, and gratitude.

The origins of Memorial Day trace back to the aftermath of the Civil War, when communities across the country began decorating soldiers’ graves with flowers. The first national observance took place on May 30, 1868, when General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic proclaimed “Decoration Day” to honor Union soldiers who died during the Civil War. Historians also credit Mary Ann Williams of Columbus, Georgia, for helping inspire the tradition of decorating veterans’ graves annually.

Over time, the observance spread nationwide and evolved from honoring Civil War soldiers to remembering all American military personnel who died in service. Following World War II, the name “Memorial Day” became more widely used, and in 1967 it became the official federal designation. Congress later established the holiday on the last Monday in May through the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, effective in 1971. Today, Memorial Day remains a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of America’s fallen heroes.

Listen to Episode 3279 and discover more about Memorial Day in the USA.

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Jared Quinn and Vietnam Vet Barry Holm.

Episode 3278 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the Vietnam Vet and the high school student who went on a Michigan Honor Flight. The featured story is titled: Chance pairing on UP Honor Flight sparks lasting bond between veteran and Gladstone senior.The story appeared on the WLUC Website and was submitted by Griffin Weinberg.

Weinberg reported that: the Vietnam Veteran generation once again showed America the meaning of sacrifice, honor, and mentorship during U.P. Honor Flight Mission XXVIII to Washington, D.C. Seventy-six veterans traveled to the nation’s capital to be recognized at the memorials built in tribute to their service and the brothers they lost. Among them was Navy veteran Barry Holm, whose actions reflected the enduring character of those who served during the Vietnam War.

Holm, who served in the United States Navy from 1972 to 1976 on active duty and later in the inactive reserve, chose not to bring a family member as his Honor Flight guardian. Instead, he invited high school senior Jared Quinn, a young man preparing for military service in the National Guard. In doing so, Holm demonstrated what makes the Vietnam Veteran generation so remarkable — their commitment not only to country, but to guiding the next generation.

The bond between Holm and Quinn became a powerful symbol of patriotism being passed forward. Holm wanted Quinn to understand the true cost of freedom by walking among the memorials honoring those who sacrificed everything for America. He even paid Quinn’s guardian fee himself, showing the generosity and selflessness that have long defined Vietnam veterans.

Quinn, inspired by veterans in his own community, now hopes to serve as a U.S. Army nurse anesthetist officer. Holm pledged to continue mentoring him “like the son I never had.”

From battlefields to memorials, the Vietnam Veteran generation continues to lead with courage, humility, and love of country, inspiring future Americans to serve with pride.

Listen to Episode 3278 and discover more about the Vietnam Vet and the high school student who went on a Michigan Honor Flight.

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Replica of Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall at Watertown, WI

Installing the Wall

Episode 3277 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a Watertown press release about the permanent placement of a Moving Wall at Watertown, WI. The featured story is titled: Watertown to Permanently Install Mobile Replica of Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.The story appeared on the City of Watertown.

It was reported that: The City of Watertown is preparing to dedicate a permanent replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial this Memorial Day, creating a lasting tribute to the brave Americans whose names are forever etched into the black granite wall of honor. The ceremony at Aero Park will celebrate not only the memorial itself, but the extraordinary generation of Vietnam veterans whose sacrifice, courage, and devotion to duty helped shape American history.

The replica, recognized as the largest Midwestern version north of St. Louis, transforms a traveling exhibit into a permanent sanctuary of remembrance. Every name on the wall represents a life of service, a family forever changed, and a hero who answered the nation’s call during one of America’s most difficult wars. Those names are more than inscriptions—they are symbols of valor, loyalty, and sacrifice that continue to inspire future generations.

The dedication ceremony will feature an F-35 flyover led by Lieutenant Colonel Zachary Krueger, Blackhawk helicopter displays, and patriotic music performed by Natalie Popp, Miss Wisconsin Teen 2025. Veterans advocates and community leaders, including The American Legion Past National Commander Daniel J. Seehafer, will honor the enduring legacy of Vietnam veterans and the importance of preserving their stories.

Open year-round and illuminated overnight, the memorial ensures that the heroes whose names cover the wall will never be forgotten. It stands as a powerful reminder that the Vietnam veteran generation served with honor, courage, and unwavering dedication to America.

Listen to Episode 3277 and discover more about the permanent placement of a Moving Wall at Watertown, WI.