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Vietnam Veterans in action.
Episode 3253 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the benefits of Vietnam Veterans’ reunions. The featured story is titled: Maryville veteran reunites with soldier whose life he saved in Vietnam. It appeared on the Knox News website and was submitted by Hayden Dunbar.
Dunbar reported that Carl Gable was just 21 when he went to Vietnam in 1968 as a conscientious objector serving as a combat medic. During the war, he saved the life of Lieutenant Lou Panizzon, who had been critically wounded by friendly fire. Acting quickly, Gable stabilized Panizzon by starting an IV while others kept him conscious, a decision doctors later credited with saving his life. After Panizzon was evacuated, the two exchanged letters confirming his recovery, but over time, they lost contact.
More than five decades later, a move to Maryville led Gable to reconnect with Panizzon through the Military Order of the Purple Heart. What followed was an emotional reunion through phone calls and FaceTime. Gable described the experience as one of the happiest moments of his life. Panizzon revealed that his family had always known about Gable and even celebrates a “second birthday” each year—the day Gable saved him.
Their story highlights the profound, lifelong bonds formed during wartime and underscores the importance of Vietnam veteran reunions. For many veterans, these reunions offer long-awaited closure, healing, and a chance to reconnect with people who shared life-altering experiences. Decades after the war, such moments can bring peace, validation, and joy that had been missing for years.
Gable and Panizzon now hope to meet in person, turning their long-delayed reunion into a full-circle moment. Their story serves as a powerful reminder that reconnecting veterans is not just meaningful—it is essential for honoring their shared history and sacrifices.
Listen to Episode 3253 and discover more about the benefits of Vietnam Veterans’ reunions.
