Vietnam Veteran News

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army Chaplain Charles Liteky.

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2929 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature information about Charles Liteky – The only Vietnam Vet to renounce his Medal of Honor. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and a story titled. This Is the Only Medal of Honor Recipient to Ever Give It Back that appeared on the Military.com website. The story was submitted on July 24, 2020 by Blake Stillwell.

Army Chaplain Charles Liteky stood amidst the chaos of Vietnam, a figure of calm and courage. On December 6, 1967, in the jungles near Phuoc-Lac, his battalion came under intense enemy fire. Bullets tore through the air, and the cries of wounded soldiers pierced the humid night. Liteky, unarmed and clad only in the cross of his faith, moved into action.

Without hesitation, he braved the kill zone, pulling injured soldiers to safety. Crawling through enemy fire, he carried men who were too injured to walk, often shielding them with his own body. Despite sustaining injuries himself, he refused medical attention, prioritizing the lives of others over his own.

By the end of the harrowing battle, Liteky had saved over 20 soldiers. His actions earned him the Medal of Honor, but his humility overshadowed his heroism. He saw his efforts not as extraordinary, but as the duty of a servant of God and country.

Years later, Liteky’s life took an unexpected turn. Haunted by the suffering of war, he renounced his Medal of Honor in 1986, leaving it at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in protest of U.S. foreign policy. He became a peace activist, dedicating his life to advocating for the powerless and opposing violence.

Chaplain Liteky’s legacy is one of selflessness, courage, and unwavering commitment to his principles. Whether on the battlefield or in the fight for peace, he embodied the highest ideals of compassion and conviction.

Listen to Episode 2929 and discover more about Charles Liteky – The only Vietnam Vet to renounce his Medal of Honor.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Air Force SGT John Levitow.

Congressional Medal of Honor

AC-47 Spooky gunship in action in Vietnam.

Episode 2928 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Air Force SGT John Levitow. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

Amidst the chaos of the Vietnam War, Air Force Sergeant John Levitow, a loadmaster on an AC-47 “Spooky” gunship, displayed extraordinary bravery that would etch his name in history. It was February 24, 1969, when his courage turned a dire situation into a tale of heroism.

Levitow’s aircraft was on a nighttime mission over South Vietnam, providing flares and suppressive fire to support ground troops under attack. Suddenly, a North Vietnamese mortar shell exploded inside the aircraft, shredding the fuselage with shrapnel and leaving Levitow gravely injured. Bleeding and disoriented, he could barely stand.

Amid the smoke and chaos, Levitow noticed a loose magnesium flare rolling dangerously close to the open cargo door. The flare’s igniter was already armed, seconds from detonation, threatening to engulf the aircraft in flames. Despite his injuries, Levitow summoned every ounce of strength. Crawling through pools of his own blood, he dragged himself across the vibrating floor.

With just moments to spare, Levitow threw his body onto the flare, cradling it against his wounds. He hurled it out of the plane, where it exploded harmlessly in midair. His actions saved the lives of his crew and preserved the mission.

For his unparalleled valor, SGT John Levitow became the only enlisted member of the Air Force to receive the Medal of Honor during Vietnam. His selflessness under fire remains a timeless testament to the courage of ordinary individuals who achieve the extraordinary.

Listen to Episode 2928 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Air Force SGT John Levitow.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Prof Kenneth R. Olson

Episode 2927 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature the scourge of the use of cluster bombs in the Vietnam War. Information used in this episode comes from a paper submitted by Kenneth R. Olson (krolson@illinois.edu). He is a professor emeritus of soil science in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois, Urbana. His paper is titled: Historical Lesson: Environmental and Human Impacts of Cluster Bomb Use by the United States Duringthe Second Indochina War.

His paper starts with this abstract: Cluster munitions release dozens of smaller bomblets that rain deadly ammunition on armored tanks, vegetation, and troops, effectively striking broad areas of war zone landscapes in one launch. However, only about 60% of bomblets detonate immediately and those that fail to detonate fall to the ground and can lie dormant for years. The legacy of cluster munitions in Laos from the Second Indochina War is unexploded bomblets across the landscape that unexpectedly detonate years later, injuring and killing children, farmers, and other civilians long after the war is over. The primary objectives of this study were to document the long-term consequences and impacts of the US Air Force bombing of Laos during the Second Indochina War (1959 to 1973).  The world apparently did not learn a historical lesson from United States 2^nd Indochina War experience in Laos and Cambodia. The historical lesson learned by United States needs to be shared with Russia and Ukraine governments and military. These countries need to discontinue the use of cluster bombs to prevent additional people living along the Russia-Ukraine border from having to live and die with the consequences of unexploded ordnance, including cluster bombs, for the next century. 

Listen to Episode 2927 and discover more about the scourge of the use of cluster bombs in the Vietnam War.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

B-52 operating in Vietnam.

Prof Kenneth R. Olson

Episode 2926 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature the scourge of the use of cluster bombs in the Vietnam War. Information used in this episode comes from a paper submitted by Kenneth R. Olson (krolson@illinois.edu). He is a professor emeritus of soil science in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois, Urbana. His paper is titled: Historical Lesson: Environmental and Human Impacts of Cluster Bomb Use by the United States Duringthe Second Indochina War.

His paper starts with this abstract: Cluster munitions release dozens of smaller bomblets that rain deadly ammunition on armored tanks, vegetation, and troops, effectively striking broad areas of war zone landscapes in one launch. However, only about 60% of bomblets detonate immediately and those that fail to detonate fall to the ground and can lie dormant for years. The legacy of cluster munitions in Laos from the Second Indochina War is unexploded bomblets across the landscape that unexpectedly detonate years later, injuring and killing children, farmers, and other civilians long after the war is over. The primary objectives of this study were to document the long-term consequences and impacts of the US Air Force bombing of Laos during the Second Indochina War (1959 to 1973).  The world apparently did not learn a historical lesson from United States 2^nd Indochina War experience in Laos and Cambodia. The historical lesson learned by United States needs to be shared with Russia and Ukraine governments and military. These countries need to discontinue the use of cluster bombs to prevent additional people living along the Russia-Ukraine border from having to live and die with the consequences of unexploded ordnance, including cluster bombs, for the next century.

Listen to Episode 2926 and discover more about the scourge of the use of cluster bombs in the Vietnam War.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Episode 2925 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature the Asia Times story about the use of Agent Blue in the American Vietnam War.

The Merry Band of Retirees have been investigating the biological warfare used by the US in the American Vietnam War. First they studied the effects of Agent Orange applications in the War, now they are looking at the effects of the use of Agent Blue.

Two members of the group recently distributed a press release about the use of Agent Blue. The presser was picked up by the Asia Times after no interest in the topic was shown by US media outlets.

The title of the press release is Vietnam chemical warfare’s secret toxic legacies: Agent Blue – Why has no major news organization in the United States ever investigated use of Agent Blue in the Vietnam War?

It was submitted by Kenneth R. Olson and Bryan R. Higgins. Ken Olson (krolson@illinois.edu) is a professor emeritus of soil science in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois, Urbana. Bryan R. Higgins is a distinguished service professor emeritus of geography and planning at the State University of New York, Plattsburgh.

According to the press release, for over 50 years US news about chemical warfare during the American Vietnam War has been dominated by the story of Agent Orange and its devastating impacts.

During the Vietnam War period, however, another diabolical concoction called Agent Blue was also used extensively in Vietnam. This arsenic-based herbicide was used to kill rice and the public knew little about its use.

Here’s a one-sentence preview of the findings: As both the Vietnamese rice farmers and US military personnel who were exposed to Agent Blue can attest, poisoning the water you drink or the local food you eat is not a good idea.

Listen to Episode 2925 and discover more about the Asia Times story about the use of Agent Blue in the American Vietnam War.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Marine LTC Howard V. Lee.

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2924 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Marine LTC Howard V. Lee. Information featured in this episode comes from The USMC website.

In the dense jungles of Vietnam, August 8, 1966, Marine Lieutenant Colonel Howard V. Lee led his small reconnaissance team through Quang Nam Province on a mission that would etch his name in history. Suddenly, the enemy ambushed them, unleashing a torrent of fire. Vastly outnumbered, Lee’s team was in peril.

Despite being wounded early in the firefight, Lee rallied his men, shouting orders and directing fire with unwavering resolve. He established a defensive perimeter, ensuring his team’s survival against the relentless onslaught. When ammunition ran low, Lee crawled through withering fire to redistribute supplies, disregarding his own injuries.

As night fell, Lee’s position came under even heavier attack. Realizing the need for reinforcements, he radioed for support, providing precise coordinates despite continuous mortar barrages. The enemy pressed closer, determined to overrun the position, but Lee refused to yield.

When reinforcements finally arrived, Lee coordinated their deployment with tactical brilliance, driving the enemy back. Even after being wounded multiple times, he continued to inspire his Marines, his courage becoming a rallying cry in the chaos of combat.

The next day, battered but victorious, Lee and his team were extracted. His leadership and valor had saved countless lives, turning a dire situation into a testament of Marine resilience. For his extraordinary bravery and sacrifice, Howard V. Lee received the Medal of Honor, a symbol of his unyielding spirit.

Through his actions, Lee exemplified the Marine Corps’ ethos: honor, courage, and commitment, standing as a hero in the annals of American history.

Listen to Episode 2924 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Marine LTC Howard V. Lee.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp4 Robert Law.

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2923 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp4 Robert Law.. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

Army Specialist Fourth Class Robert D. Law was a man of quiet courage, whose actions spoke louder than words. Born in 1944 in Fort Worth, Texas, he grew up with a strong sense of duty and patriotism. By the time he enlisted in the Army, the Vietnam War was raging, and young men like Law were thrust into the chaos of jungle warfare.

On February 22, 1969, deep in the dense foliage of Phuoc Long Province, Law’s platoon was conducting a reconnaissance mission. Suddenly, the crack of gunfire shattered the humid air as they walked into a deadly ambush. Enemy troops, concealed in fortified positions, unleashed a torrent of bullets and grenades, pinning the platoon down.

Amid the chaos, Law fought with unwavering determination. His M-16 roared as he provided cover for his comrades. But then came the moment that would define him forever: a grenade arced through the air, landing dangerously close to his team. Without hesitation, Law shouted a warning and threw himself onto the grenade.

The explosion claimed his life instantly, but his sacrifice saved the lives of his comrades. In that moment of ultimate selflessness, Robert Law displayed extraordinary valor and devotion to his brothers in arms.

For his gallantry and sacrifice, Law was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His name is etched on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and his story continues to inspire all who learn of his heroism. Robert Law’s legacy is a testament to the power of courage, even in the face of death.

Listen to Episode 2923 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp4 Robert Law.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.

Congressional Medal of Honor

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2922 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy. Information featured in this episode comes from a History Link essay titled: Vice President Spiro Agnew awards the Medal of Honor to Robert R. Leisy posthumously on December 16, 1971.

On December 2, 1969, in the dense jungles of South Vietnam, Army Second Lieutenant Robert Ronald Leisy, just 23 years old, was leading his platoon on a reconnaissance mission. A newly commissioned officer from Spokane, Washington, Leisy had quickly earned the trust of his men with his calm leadership and unwavering commitment to their welfare.

As the platoon moved through the thick underbrush, they encountered a sudden, fierce ambush by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force. Gunfire erupted, and chaos filled the air. Realizing the grave danger to his men, Leisy immediately took charge, directing his soldiers to take cover and return fire.

Amidst the clash, an enemy rocket-propelled grenade was fired toward the platoon. Leisy, recognizing the imminent threat, didn’t hesitate. He threw himself in front of the oncoming grenade, absorbing the explosion with his body. His selfless act shielded his fellow soldiers from the blast, saving their lives at the cost of his own.

Mortally wounded, Leisy refused to focus on his injuries. Instead, he continued giving orders, ensuring his men could evacuate and regroup safely. Only after they were secure did he allow himself to be carried to safety. Despite the best efforts of medics, Leisy succumbed to his wounds.

For his extraordinary heroism and ultimate sacrifice, Robert Leisy was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His bravery remains a testament to the selflessness and valor of those who serve, inspiring generations to honor duty, courage, and sacrifice.

Listen to Episode 2921 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army 2LT Robert Leisy.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army PFC Billy L. Lauffer.

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2921 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army PFC Billy L. Lauffer. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

The jungle air hung heavy with the scent of rain-soaked earth and tension. It was September 21, 1966, near Bong Son, Vietnam, and Army Private First Class Billy L. Lauffer, just 21 years old, was on a mission with his unit. Moving through dense foliage, they suddenly encountered fierce enemy fire. The ambush pinned down Lauffer’s platoon, leaving his comrades vulnerable and surrounded.

In the chaos, Lauffer acted without hesitation. Rising from cover, he dashed through the barrage, his M16 roaring as he returned fire. Lauffer’s selflessness created a diversion, allowing his trapped comrades to maneuver to safety.

His squad watched in awe and horror as Lauffer pressed forward, confronting the enemy head-on. Though wounded, he continued his charge, his determination unwavering. Lauffer eliminated several enemy fighters, weakening their position, but a hail of gunfire cut him down before he could reach cover.

When the dust settled, his comrades returned to find Lauffer lying still. Around him were signs of his courage: silenced enemy weapons and the clear path he’d carved for his platoon’s escape. His actions saved countless lives that day.

For his extraordinary bravery and self-sacrifice, PFC Billy L. Lauffer was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His legacy endures, a testament to the power of courage and the bonds of brotherhood. Lauffer’s story reminds us of the valor it takes to rise above fear, fighting not for glory but for the lives of those beside you.

Listen to Episode 2921 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army PFC Billy L. Lauffer.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp4 Joseph G. LaPointe Jr.

Congressional Medal of Honor

Episode 2920 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp4 Joseph G. LaPointe Jr. Information featured in this episode comes from the International Peace Museum.

In the thick jungle of Vietnam, June 2, 1969, Army Specialist Fourth Class Joseph G. LaPointe Jr., a combat medic with the 101st Airborne Division, moved with a calm purpose that belied the chaos around him. Nicknamed “Doc” by his unit, Guy was known for his quiet demeanor and unshakeable dedication to his comrades.

That day, a reconnaissance team found itself under heavy enemy fire. Two of Guy’s fellow soldiers were gravely wounded, pinned down in an exposed position. Without hesitation, Guy grabbed his aid bag and dashed into the line of fire. Bullets tore through the trees, but he pressed forward, reaching the wounded men.

Despite the danger, Guy began treating their injuries, his hands steady amidst the roar of battle. As enemy forces closed in, he shielded his comrades with his own body, continuing to provide care. A grenade landed nearby. Guy made the ultimate sacrifice, covering his brothers with his body to absorb the blast.

When the smoke cleared, Specialist LaPointe’s bravery was evident to all who survived because of him. His actions exemplified the selflessness of a true medic and soldier.

Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, Joseph G. LaPointe Jr.’s legacy endures. His courage and compassion remind us of the profound cost of war and the extraordinary acts of humanity that emerge in its darkest moments. Today, his name is etched into the annals of heroism, a testament to the quiet, unwavering strength of a man who gave everything for others.

Listen to Episode 2920 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient Army Sp4 Joseph G. LaPointe Jr.