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Stephen Paul Campos at work
Campos Library
Episode 3227 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about outstanding Vietnam Vet Stephen Paul Campos. The featured story appeared on the FOX10 of Phoenix website and is titled: From combat to ‘Senor Campos Salsa’: How a Vietnam veteran found healing through faith | Care Force. It was submitted by Christina Carilla.
Carilla reported that Stephen Campos, a Vietnam War veteran, spent decades carrying the emotional weight of his combat experience before finally sharing his story and discovering a new mission: helping other veterans heal. Campos served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969, one of the most intense and deadly periods of the war. During that time, he and his fellow soldiers survived a brutal firefight that forged an unbreakable bond among them. In the midst of fear and chaos, they promised each other that if they survived, they would one day reunite after the war.
Like many returning veterans, Campos did not receive a warm welcome when he came home. Instead, he struggled for years with the lingering effects of trauma. Unable to process his experiences, he battled alcohol problems and personal difficulties, including a drunk driving arrest and unstable living conditions. For decades, he avoided speaking about Vietnam and the impact it had on his life.
Everything changed for Campos in 1982 when he experienced what he describes as a spiritual awakening. That moment marked a turning point. He stopped drinking, began attending recovery meetings, and embraced his faith as a foundation for rebuilding his life.
Years later, he also pursued entrepreneurial and creative passions. In 2018, Campos launched Señor Campos Salsa, inspired by the flavors of his father’s homemade recipes. On many weekends he can be found selling his products locally, while also working as an author who shares his life story and message of hope through several books.
Today, Campos believes his survival had a purpose. After finally speaking about his experiences—beginning with a reunion with fellow veterans at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial—he now sees his mission clearly: to support and inspire others, especially fellow veterans facing similar struggles.
Listen to Episode 3227 and discover more about outstanding Vietnam Vet Stephen Paul Campos.
