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A view of The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial bearing the names of over 58,000 U.S. service men and women who lost their lives in Vietnam. The exhibit was displayed last week in Manning.
Dan Marsh

Episode 3333 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature an editorial about the meaning of beyond the names on the Wall. The featured editorial is titled: Beyond the names on the Wall. It appeared on the Carroll Times Herald website and was submitted by Dan Marsh, the editor of the paper.

Marsh reported that The Wall That Heals continues to educate, inspire, and heal communities across America by bringing the powerful story of the Vietnam War and the sacrifices of America’s Vietnam veterans directly to hometowns that may never have the opportunity to visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. For one visitor in Manning, the experience transformed a limited understanding of the war into a deep appreciation for the courage, sacrifice, and lasting legacy of the more than 58,000 American service members whose names are engraved on the memorial.

This remarkable three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is far more than a wall of names. It is a sacred place of remembrance where visitors learn about the heroes who answered their nation’s call, including those still listed as Missing in Action (MIA). The accompanying mobile Education Center provides powerful exhibits about combat communications, Agent Orange, the military draft, Bob Hope’s support for troops, and the history behind one of America’s most meaningful war memorials.

The Wall That Heals reminds every generation that the freedoms Americans enjoy today were secured through the dedication and sacrifice of brave U.S. military men and women. Its emotional design symbolizes a wound left by the Vietnam War while also offering healing, education, and understanding for veterans, families, and future generations.

Every American should experience The Wall That Heals at least once. It serves as a living classroom, a place of reflection, and a lasting tribute to the extraordinary service of Vietnam veterans who deserve our deepest respect and gratitude. By preserving their stories and honoring their sacrifice, The Wall That Heals ensures that the legacy of the Vietnam War and the heroes who fought it will never be forgotten.

Listen to episode 3333 and discover more about the meaning of beyond the names on the Wall.

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Restored F-4 Phantom II at JB-MDL

The F-4 Phantom II restoration crew.

Episode 3332 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the F-4 Phantom II that was restored at JB-MDL. The featured story is titled: F-4 Phantom II – A legend restored to glory. It appeared on the JB-MDL website.

It was reported that the legendary F-4 Phantom II has once again become a proud symbol of American military history thanks to the dedication of passionate volunteers at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. After more than a year of painstaking restoration, the iconic Vietnam War fighter jet was moved to its permanent home at the Navy Lakehurst Air Park, where it now stands as a lasting tribute to the courageous Vietnam Veterans who flew, maintained, and depended on this remarkable combat aircraft.

First taking to the skies in 1958, the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II became one of the most recognizable and successful U.S. military aircraft ever built. Serving with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Air Force, the Phantom excelled as a multi-role fighter during the Vietnam War, flying dangerous air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft earned an unmatched reputation for speed, power, durability, and combat effectiveness while the brave pilots and crews who operated it displayed extraordinary courage under fire.

The restoration project united military veterans, aviation historians, and skilled volunteers who carefully repaired corrosion, restored the canopy, and applied the historically accurate VF-111 “Sundowners” paint scheme honoring the squadron that flew combat missions over North Vietnam aboard USS Coral Sea (CV-43). A deeply personal touch was added by honoring U.S. Marine Col. John Black, a decorated Vietnam combat pilot whose name now appears beneath the aircraft canopy.

This beautifully restored F-4 Phantom II static display preserves the legacy of America’s Vietnam-era aviators while educating future generations about the sacrifices of those who served. It stands as a powerful reminder of the skill, dedication, and unwavering bravery of our Vietnam Veterans, whose service and the legendary aircraft they flew continue to inspire aviation enthusiasts, military historians, and patriots across America.

Listen to episode 3332 and discover more about the F-4 Phantom II that was restored at JB-MDL.

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U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS George Washington is pictured during Freedom Edge trilateral exercise among United States, Japan and South Korea in the East China Sea, south of the Korean peninsula and west of Japan’s main islands November 14, 2024. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights

Episode 3331 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the U.S. aircraft carrier port call at DaNang. The featured story is titled: U.S. carrier George Washington arrives in Vietnam on five-day visit. It appeared on the Reuters website.

It was reported that the arrival of the USS George Washington in Danang, Vietnam, marks another historic milestone in the growing relationship between the United States and Vietnam and highlights the unmatched strength, professionalism, and global leadership of the U.S. Navy. As one of the world’s most powerful nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, the USS George Washington represents the incredible capabilities of the U.S. Military, demonstrating America’s unwavering commitment to peace, security, and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

This five-day port visit is the fourth by a U.S. aircraft carrier since the end of the Vietnam War and the first since the USS Ronald Reagan visited Danang in 2023. The visit follows the landmark upgrade of U.S.-Vietnam relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, reflecting expanding cooperation between two former adversaries that now work together to promote regional security and mutual prosperity.

Vietnam’s Ministry of Defence emphasized that the carrier strike group’s visit strengthens bilateral relations while supporting international naval cooperation. Likewise, the U.S. Consulate reaffirmed America’s commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy and naval operations.

The recent meeting between Vietnamese Defence Minister Phan Van Giang and U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth further demonstrates growing collaboration in defense trade, military information sharing, humanitarian efforts, and addressing the lasting legacies of the Vietnam War.

For military history enthusiasts, Navy supporters, and those interested in international affairs, this story showcases the enduring excellence of the U.S. Armed Forces. From advanced nuclear-powered aircraft carriers to highly trained sailors and aviators, the U.S. Military continues to project strength, build partnerships, deter aggression, and preserve peace around the world. This remarkable visit underscores the Navy’s proud tradition of service, diplomacy, and global leadership while opening a new chapter in U.S.-Vietnam relations.

Listen to episode 3331 and discover more about the U.S. aircraft carrier port call at DaNang.

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Heng Kao, Acting Secretary of the U.S. Navy. /UPI-Yonhap

Episode 3330 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Vietnam Refugee Hung Cao, Acting Secretary of the. The featured story is titled: Vietnam refugee turned Navy leader drives MASGA initiative to strengthen Indo-Pacific security). It appeared on the Chosun Daily website. It was submitted by Lee Min-jun.

Min-jun reported that Hung Cao’s remarkable journey from a young Vietnamese refugee to Acting U.S. Secretary of the Navy is one of the most inspiring military success stories of our time. Born in Saigon in 1971, Cao escaped Vietnam with his family in 1975 as South Vietnam fell to communist forces. Like countless refugees seeking freedom, he arrived in America with hope and determination. His story is a powerful reminder of the opportunities provided by the United States and the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom during the Vietnam War.

For everyone who honors the Vietnam Veteran generation, Cao’s achievement represents more than personal success. It stands as a tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment of America’s Vietnam Veterans and the brave South Vietnamese allies who stood beside them. The service and sacrifice of these heroes created opportunities for future generations to thrive in freedom.

After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy, Hung Cao built an extraordinary military career as a Navy special operations officer, explosive ordnance disposal expert, and deep-sea diver. He served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, and other dangerous assignments before advancing to leadership roles in the Department of Defense and homeland security. His impressive academic accomplishments at the Naval Postgraduate School, MIT, and Harvard further demonstrate his dedication to excellence.

Today, as Acting U.S. Navy Secretary, Cao is helping strengthen America’s naval power while supporting strategic partnerships such as the U.S.-South Korea shipbuilding initiative and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific. His leadership reflects the strength, resilience, and patriotism that define America’s military.

This inspiring Vietnam War story celebrates the greatness of all Vietnam Veterans, whose courage continues to shape history and inspire future generations. Their service, sacrifice, and love of country will never be forgotten. If you enjoy stories about the Vietnam War, Vietnam Veterans, military history, U.S. Navy leadership, South Vietnam, American heroes, patriotism, freedom, and the lasting legacy of those who served, this video honors their extraordinary contributions and preserves their stories for generations to come.

Listen to episode 3330 and discover more about Vietnam Refugee Hung Cao, Acting Secretary of the Navy.

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Recommended Reading

Buy Now

Episode 3329 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a press covering Vietnam Vet Kurt Turner’s new book. The featured press release is titled: Vietnam Veteran Kurt Turner Shares a Powerful Memoir of War, Faith, Trauma, and Healing in I’ve Never Been to Heaven (But I’ve Been to Oklahoma). It appeared on the Open PR website.

It was reported that Kurt Turner’s I’ve Never Been to Heaven (But I’ve Been to Oklahoma) is a powerful Vietnam War memoir that shines a light on the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit of America’s Vietnam Veterans. This remarkable story follows Turner’s service as a U.S. Navy hospital corpsman aboard the USS Repose during the Vietnam War, where he faced the heartbreaking reality of treating wounded and dying servicemen arriving directly from the battlefield. His experiences reveal the extraordinary dedication of military medical personnel who fought every day to save lives while carrying emotional burdens that would last a lifetime.

The memoir pays heartfelt tribute to the brave Vietnam Veterans who answered their nation’s call, including the Marines, sailors, soldiers, airmen, and corpsmen whose service and sacrifice helped define one of America’s most resilient generations. Turner’s unforgettable encounter with a wounded Marine, James E. Williams Jr., became a defining moment that shaped his struggle with PTSD, strengthened his Christian faith, and inspired a lifelong search for healing and purpose.

This compelling Vietnam veteran story explores combat trauma, military service, PTSD recovery, faith, remembrance, courage, and the lifelong impact of war. It reminds readers that the Vietnam War did not end when veterans returned home; many continued fighting invisible battles for decades with remarkable strength and determination. Through honest storytelling, Turner honors the fallen, the wounded, and every veteran whose sacrifices deserve to be remembered by future generations.

For anyone interested in Vietnam War history, Vietnam Veterans, U.S. Navy history, USS Repose, military memoirs, Christian testimony, military medicine, combat medics, patriotism, veteran healing, and inspirational true stories, this book delivers a moving and unforgettable account. Most importantly, it celebrates the greatness of America’s Vietnam Veterans, whose honor, resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering service continue to inspire the nation. Their legacy remains a timeless reminder that freedom has always come at a tremendous cost and that every Vietnam Veteran deserves our deepest gratitude, respect, and remembrance.

Listen to episode 3329 and discover more about the press release covering Vietnam Vet Kurt Turner’s new book.

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WASHINGTON, DC MAY 28: The Vietnam Veterans Memorial’s Three Servicemen Statue by Frederick Hart, an outdoor monument commemorating those who served in the Vietnam War, in Washington, D.C., United States, on May 28, 2025. (Photo by STR/NurPhoto via Getty Images) (NurPhoto/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Episode 3328 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Thomas P. Durso’s outstanding op-ed about Vietnam Veterans. The featured op-ed is titled: Despite protests, Vietnam was a righteous war – and local veterans should be proud. It appeared on the Yahoo-News website.

Durso reported that for millions of Americans, the Vietnam War was deeply personal, touching nearly every family through military service, sacrifice, or the uncertainty of the draft. This powerful story reflects on the courage of the Vietnam Veteran generation, honoring the soldiers, sailors, Marines, and airmen who answered their nation’s call during one of the most challenging periods in American history. Whether they volunteered or were drafted, these brave men served with honor, determination, and unwavering commitment to freedom despite intense political division at home.

Their battlefield achievements, resilience under unimaginable conditions, and dedication to their fellow service members remain an enduring testament to American courage. The story also revisits the controversial final years of the Vietnam War, the fall of South Vietnam in 1975, the tragic boat people crisis, and the lasting legacy left by those who fought. It highlights the incredible endurance of heroes like Admiral Jeremiah Denton, whose years as a prisoner of war symbolize the extraordinary strength displayed by countless Vietnam veterans.

Many returned home carrying visible and invisible wounds, yet continued serving their communities with dignity and perseverance. Today, Americans increasingly recognize that the bravery and professionalism of the Vietnam Veteran generation were never in question. Their service, sacrifice, and patriotism deserve our deepest gratitude and lasting respect. Join us as we honor America’s Vietnam veterans, preserve their remarkable stories, and ensure future generations never forget their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to liberty.

.Listen to episode 3328 and discover more about Thomas P. Durso’s outstanding op-ed about Vietnam Veterans.

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The County Commission presents $100,000 to the local chapter of Vietnam Veterans to go towards a Veterans Park.

Vietnam Veterans Chapter 1148 was honored by the Campbell County Commission at Monday’s commission meeting.

Episode 3327 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about what VVA Chapter 1148 is doing to serve its community and Vietnam Veterans. The featured story is titled: Commission recognizes Vietnam vets; donates $100,000 for park. It appeared on the WLAF website and was submitted by Charlotte Underwood.

Underwood reported that the recognition of Vietnam Veterans Chapter 1148 during the Campbell County Commission meeting was a fitting tribute to a remarkable group of Americans whose service and sacrifice continue to strengthen their community decades after the Vietnam War. The chapter, honored by County Mayor Jack Lynch with an official proclamation, represents 140 dedicated members whose shared experiences in Vietnam have been transformed into a lifelong commitment to serving fellow veterans and their neighbors.

Mayor Lynch praised the chapter as a “beacon of service and dedication,” highlighting its efforts to organize outings that provide friendship, encouragement, and support for veterans. Chapter 1148 has become one of the fastest-growing Vietnam Veterans organizations in the nation, demonstrating that the spirit of service never ends for those who wore the uniform.

The chapter also works tirelessly to ensure that Vietnam veterans receive the honor they earned. From displaying veteran banners throughout downtown LaFollette to placing American flags at memorials every Memorial Day, members make certain that the sacrifices of their brothers and sisters in arms are never forgotten.

Their commitment extends beyond veterans. Through scholarships awarded to students at Campbell County High School and Jellico High School, Chapter 1148 invests in the next generation, proving that patriotism includes building a stronger future.

Adding to the celebration, the county presented the chapter with a $100,000 contribution toward the construction of the new Veterans Park in Caryville. Led by Vietnam veteran H.R. Douglas, the project will feature a towering 60-foot flagpole flying a massive 12-by-24-foot American flag overlooking Interstate 75.

The accomplishments of Chapter 1148 reflect the greatness of America’s Vietnam veterans—men and women whose courage in war has been matched by decades of leadership, compassion, and unwavering devotion to their communities.

Listen to episode 3327 and discover more about what VVA Chapter 1148 is doing to serve it’s community and Vietnam Veterans.

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Higgins boat being offloaded at the Our Heroes Military Museum in Lincoln, ME

Episode 3326 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how the Our Heroes Military Museum obtained a Higgins Boat. The featured story is titled Our Heroes Military Museum receives historic Higgins boat used in Vietnam.  It appeared on the WABI5 website and was submitted by Josh Gabbard.

Gabbard reported that the arrival of a rare Vietnam-era Higgins landing craft at Our Heroes Military Museum is more than the addition of another exhibit—it is a tribute to the remarkable Navy boats that played a vital role in the Vietnam War. These rugged vessels carried American fighting men into dangerous riverine combat zones, proving that victory often depended on the courage of crews operating in small boats under constant enemy fire.

The Higgins boat is best known for its legendary service during World War II, when General Dwight D. Eisenhower famously called it “the boat that won the war” because of its critical role during the D-Day landings. Later versions continued that proud legacy in Vietnam, where they navigated the nation’s rivers and waterways in support of Navy and Marine operations. In the challenging river environment of Vietnam, dependable landing craft were essential for transporting troops, equipment, and supplies into areas unreachable by larger ships.

The museum’s newly acquired boat has an extraordinary history. After serving during the Vietnam War, it was later used commercially to harvest seaweed before being discovered through Facebook Marketplace. Thanks to generous community support, including donated transportation, the historic vessel has found a permanent home where it can educate future generations.

Museum officials plan to restore the Higgins boat and use it during educational events and historical reenactments, allowing visitors to better appreciate the sacrifices and achievements of America’s military. The restoration project will preserve an important piece of naval history while honoring the brave sailors, Marines, and soldiers who depended on these remarkable boats. Their service on Vietnam’s rivers demonstrated courage, ingenuity, and determination, making these Navy landing craft enduring symbols of American military excellence and the unwavering spirit of those who served.

Listen to episode 3326 and discover more about how the Our Heroes Military Museum obtained a Higgins Boat.

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During the Vietnam War, the United States dropped more than two million tons of bombs on Laos

Episode 3325 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the secret war in Laos. The featured story is titled Laos, the most heavily bombed country in the world. It appeared on the Vatican News website and was submitted by Guglielmo Gallone.

Gallone reported that more than fifty years after the Vietnam War and the related Secret War in Laos ended, the people of Laos continue to face a deadly legacy from millions of unexploded bombs scattered across their countryside. Although this tragic chapter of history is often overlooked, Laos became the most heavily bombed country in history relative to its population as the United States sought to disrupt the Ho Chi Minh Trail during the Vietnam War. Between 1964 and 1973, American aircraft flew approximately 580,000 missions and dropped more than two million tons of bombs, many of which failed to explode and remain dangerous today.

According to the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) and HALO Trust, an estimated 80 million unexploded bomblets still threaten farmers, children, and entire communities. Even in 2024, unexploded ordnance caused dozens of casualties, proving that the consequences of the war continue to claim lives decades later.

Both organizations are working tirelessly to locate, remove, and safely destroy these hidden explosives while educating local residents about the dangers. Their efforts have transformed thousands of acres of contaminated land into safe farmland, allowing families to grow crops, raise livestock, build schools, and develop their communities without constant fear.

The story also serves as a reminder of the broader impact of the Vietnam War, whose battles extended beyond Vietnam’s borders into neighboring Laos. While the conflict remains controversial, humanitarian organizations today are demonstrating remarkable courage and compassion by helping Laos recover from its wartime scars. Their work restores not only land but also hope, giving future generations the opportunity to live, work, and thrive in safety after decades of lingering danger.

 Listen to episode 3325 and discover more about the secret war in Laos.

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Marine Hero James Capers, Jr. receiving the Medal of Honor.

Marine Hero James Capers, Jr. in the day.

Episode 3324 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the rest of the story of Marine Hero Major James Capers, Jr. The featured story is titled: Troy Carico shares how Vietnam hero James Capers refused Medal of Honor after Dem leader asked to lie about racial discrimination. It appeared on the 1819 News website and was submitted by Daniel Taylor .

[daniel.taylor@1819news.com]

Taylor reported that Major James Capers Jr.’s remarkable story stands as a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion displayed by United States Marines during the Vietnam War. Leading a small reconnaissance team deep into hostile territory in North Vietnam, then-Lt. Capers demonstrated the fearless leadership that has long defined the Marine Corps. When his eight-man patrol was caught in a devastating ambush, every Marine was wounded, and Capers himself suffered horrific injuries, including a severe abdominal wound and multiple shrapnel hits. Despite his own pain, he continued directing the fight, protecting his men, and refusing to abandon them.

Even after his beloved war dog, King, was killed, Capers ensured that both his Marines and his loyal companion were loaded onto the evacuation helicopter. When the overloaded aircraft struggled to lift off, Capers volunteered to remain behind so that his fellow Marines could escape to safety. His comrades refused to leave him, ultimately pulling him aboard as the helicopter barely escaped enemy fire.

For decades, fellow Marines believed Capers deserved the Medal of Honor, America’s highest military decoration. His original Bronze Star was later upgraded to the Silver Star, but those who witnessed his extraordinary heroism never stopped advocating for the nation’s highest recognition. Throughout the long campaign, Capers remained true to his principles, proudly declaring that the Marine Corps had treated him as an equal and had been “the best thing to ever happen” to him.

Nearly 60 years after his heroic actions in Vietnam, Major James Capers Jr. finally received the Medal of Honor. His inspiring legacy reflects the extraordinary valor, loyalty, and selfless commitment that made America’s Marines among the greatest fighting forces of the Vietnam War and forever secured their place in military history.

Listen to episode 3324 and discover more about the rest of the story of Marine Hero Major James Capers, Jr..