Vietnam Veteran News

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army CPL Jerry W. Wickam.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3020 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S Army CPL Jerry W. Wickam. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

Among the most honored heroes of the Vietnam War, U.S. Army Corporal Jerry Wayne Wickam stands out as a symbol of unparalleled bravery, selfless sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to duty. Born on January 19, 1942, in Rockford, Illinois, Wickam served in Troop F of 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, United States Army.

On January 6, 1968, in the Loc Ninh, Binh Phuoc Province, Republic of Vietnam, CPL Wickam displayed extraordinary heroism during a fierce engagement with enemy forces. For his gallant actions in combat, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the United States military’s highest and most prestigious personal military decoration.

Combat Bravery Above and Beyond

During a search and destroy mission, Wickam’s unit came under intense enemy fire. As the situation deteriorated and several of his fellow soldiers became wounded, CPL Jerry W. Wickam moved with complete disregard for his own safety. He advanced through a hail of bullets to rescue multiple wounded comrades, dragging them to safety under direct fire. When his platoon leader was wounded, Wickam assumed command and continued the assault, inspiring his fellow soldiers to fight with renewed determination.

Legacy and Remembrance

Jerry W. Wickam is buried at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Machesney Park, Illinois, near his hometown. He is remembered not only for his battlefield heroics but also for his quiet determination and selfless service. His name is etched into the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., Panel 33E, Line 55—a lasting reminder of the price of freedom.

As a Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient, CPL Jerry Wickam’s story continues to inspire generations of American soldiers and civilians alike. He epitomizes the Army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.

Listen to Episode 3020 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army CPL Jerry W. Wickam.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps LCpl Roy M. Wheat.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3019 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S Marine Corps LCpl Roy M. Wheat. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and The U.S. Department of Defense website.

Lance Corporal Roy M. Wheat, a United States Marine Corps hero, was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery during the Vietnam War. Born in Mississippi, Wheat enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1967, answering the call of duty with unwavering commitment. His courage, sacrifice, and sense of duty exemplify the highest traditions of the U.S. military.

On August 11, 1967, while serving with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, LCpl Wheat was on a mission to provide security for a Navy construction battalion crane in the Quang Ngai Province of South Vietnam. During a search and destroy mission, he and his unit encountered a series of deadly enemy land mines. When Wheat accidentally triggered a concealed explosive device, he made the ultimate sacrifice by throwing himself onto the mine to shield his fellow Marines from the blast. His selfless act saved the lives of his comrades at the cost of his own.

For his valor, LCpl Roy M. Wheat was awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration for heroism. His story stands as a powerful symbol of courage, patriotism, and sacrifice in the face of grave danger. Today, he remains a revered figure among Vietnam veterans and is honored on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.

The legacy of Roy M. Wheat endures through memorials, tributes, and the respect of a grateful nation. His heroism during the Vietnam War reflects the core values of the U.S. Marine Corps: honor, courage, and commitment.

Listen to Episode 3019 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps LCpl Roy M. Wheat.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps LCpl Lester W. Weber.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3018 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S Marine Corps LCpl Lester W. Weber. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and The U.S. Department of Defense website.

Lance Corporal Lester W. Weber, a distinguished United States Marine Corps infantryman, exemplified the highest traditions of military service and personal courage during the Vietnam War. Born on July 30, 1948, in Aurora , Illinois, LCpl Weber answered the call of duty at a time when his country was deeply engaged in one of the most grueling conflicts of the 20th century.

After enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve in September 1966, Lester Weber transitioned to active duty, rapidly proving himself as a committed and courageous Marine. Assigned to Company M, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, he deployed to the Republic of Vietnam, serving in the I Corps Tactical Zone, one of the most dangerous regions of South Vietnam.

On February 23, 1969, in Quang Nam Province, during a search and destroy mission, LCpl Weber’s squad was ambushed by entrenched North Vietnamese Army (NVA) forces. In the face of overwhelming enemy fire, LCpl Weber displayed extraordinary heroism and selfless bravery. Armed with his M16 rifle and hand grenades, he led a direct assault on multiple enemy bunkers, eliminating numerous combatants and disrupting their coordinated attack.

He fought with relentless determination, personally accounting for several enemy casualties. Tragically, he was mortally wounded during the final moments of the engagement—but not before saving the lives of many of his fellow Marines.

For his “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty,” Lance Corporal Lester W. Weber was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest and most prestigious military decoration. His heroism epitomized the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment.

Today, LCpl Weber’s name is etched on Panel 31W, Line 69 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. He remains a symbol of the ultimate sacrifice made by so many young Americans during the Vietnam War. His Medal of Honor citation serves as a powerful reminder of the valor exhibited by those who served in one of America’s most challenging conflicts.

In honoring Lance Corporal Lester W. Weber, we not only remember a heroic Marine but also reaffirm our gratitude to all veterans who served with distinction during the Vietnam era. His legacy of bravery, devotion to duty, and profound patriotism will forever be remembered in the annals of Marine Corps history and among the Medal of Honor recipients of the Vietnam War.

Listen to Episode 3018 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps LCpl Lester W. Weber.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SP4 Dale E. Wayrynen.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3017 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SP4 Dale E. Wayrynen. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and The Minnesota Medal of Honor Memorial website.

In the heart of Vietnam’s perilous battlefield, U.S. Army Specialist Fourth Class Dale E. Wayrynen etched his name into history with an act of unparalleled heroism. Born in Minnesota, Wayrynen served with Company B, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, during the Vietnam War. On May 18, 1967, in Quảng Ngãi Province, Wayrynen displayed the kind of extraordinary courage and selflessness that would earn him the Medal of Honor, the United States military’s highest award for valor.

During a night assault, his unit was ambushed by enemy forces. In the chaos, a live grenade landed in the middle of his squad. Without hesitation, SP4 Dale Wayrynen shouted a warning, pushed a fellow soldier to safety, and threw himself onto the grenade, absorbing the full force of the explosion. His self-sacrifice saved the lives of his comrades and left a lasting legacy of bravery.

Wayrynen’s Medal of Honor citation highlights his “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty.” He was just 20 years old.

Today, Wayrynen is honored at the Minnesota Medal of Honor Memorial in Saint Paul, where his name is inscribed among the state’s bravest. His story is a profound reminder of the valor, sacrifice, and patriotism demonstrated by those who served in the Vietnam War. SP4 Dale E. Wayrynen’s legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to remember the cost of freedom and the heroes who paid it in full.

Listen to Episode 3017 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army SP4 Dale E. Wayrynen.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army Chaplain Charles J. Watters.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3016 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army Chaplain Charles J. Watters. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and The VVMF website.

In the annals of American military history, few figures exemplify selfless courage and spiritual dedication like U.S. Army Chaplain (Major) Charles J. Watters, a Medal of Honor recipient who gave his life during the Vietnam War to serve his fellow soldiers.

Born on January 17, 1927, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Charles Joseph Watters was ordained as a Roman Catholic priest in 1953. Motivated by a deep sense of duty and faith, he joined the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps in 1962, determined to minister to soldiers serving in increasingly perilous global conflicts.

Chaplain Watters was assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, a distinguished airborne infantry brigade of the U.S. Army, deployed in some of the most intense combat zones of the Vietnam War. His most heroic actions occurred on November 19, 1967, during Operation Waco, in the Battle of Dak To, one of the bloodiest engagements of the war. The battle unfolded in the rugged Central Highlands near the Cambodian border, where U.S. forces engaged the well-entrenched North Vietnamese Army (NVA).

As bullets tore through the jungle and artillery shook the earth, Chaplain Watters moved fearlessly among the wounded and dying. Without regard for his own safety, he administered last rites, provided first aid, and carried men to safety under direct enemy fire. Even after being urged to remain behind for his own protection, he repeatedly exposed himself to intense combat to aid the fallen.

Chaplain Watters’ acts of bravery went far beyond his clerical duties. Eyewitness accounts describe him dragging the wounded to safety, shielding soldiers with his own body, and offering words of comfort to those facing death. He refused evacuation and continued to serve until he was tragically killed by a friendly bomb strike while tending to the injured.

For his unparalleled gallantry and devotion to his fellow soldiers, Chaplain Charles J. Watters was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the United States military’s highest and most prestigious personal military decoration. His citation notes “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.”

Chaplain Watters’ name is engraved not only in stone, on memorials like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., but in the hearts of those who continue to be inspired by his legacy. His heroism is also commemorated at Arlington National Cemetery, where he is laid to rest among other American heroes.

The story of Medal of Honor recipient Chaplain Charles J. Watters stands as a powerful testament to the role of faith, compassion, and courage in the midst of war. His legacy lives on through military chaplains, veterans, and all who value the profound sacrifice made by those who serve others, even at the cost of their own lives.

Listen to Episode 3016 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army Chaplain Charles J. Watters.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army 1LT John E. Warren Jr.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3015 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army 1LT John E. Warren Jr.. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia and Tara Ross.  

U.S. Army First Lieutenant John E. Warren Jr. displayed extraordinary heroism and self-sacrifice during the Vietnam War, earning the Medal of Honor for his actions on January 14, 1969, in Tây Ninh Province, South Vietnam. Serving as a platoon leader in Company C, 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, Warren led his troops on a combat patrol near Cu Chi when they came under intense enemy fire from a heavily fortified bunker complex.

As his platoon advanced, Warren noticed a well-concealed enemy position preparing to ambush his men. Without hesitation, he charged forward, rallying his soldiers, and directing suppressive fire against the enemy. During the fierce battle, an enemy grenade landed among his troops. With no time to warn his men, Warren selflessly threw himself onto the grenade, absorbing the full impact of the explosion.

His courageous sacrifice saved the lives of several soldiers, allowing them to regroup and continue their mission. For his conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the cost of his own life, Warren was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration. His actions exemplified the Army values of duty, honor, and selfless service.

First Lieutenant John E. Warren Jr. is remembered as a true American hero, whose valor and sacrifice in Vietnam reflect the finest traditions of the U.S. Army. His legacy lives on through the soldiers he saved and the inspiration he provides to future generations of service members.

Listen to Episode 3015 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army 1LT John E. Warren Jr.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps COL Jay R. Vargas.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3014 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps COL Jay R. Vargas. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

COL Jay R. Vargas, a decorated U.S. Marine Corps officer, earned the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War. As a Marine Corps captain in 1968, Vargas led Company G, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 9th Marine Regiment during the intense Battle of Dai Do. His bravery, leadership, and unwavering commitment to his men were pivotal in securing victory against relentless North Vietnamese Army (NVA) forces.

Under heavy enemy fire, Vargas fearlessly advanced, rallying his Marines to push forward. Despite sustaining multiple wounds, he refused medical evacuation, choosing instead to continue leading the attack. Amid fierce combat, he single-handedly rescued several wounded Marines, exposing himself to deadly enemy fire. Vargas personally eliminated numerous NVA soldiers and coordinated devastating counterattacks.

At one critical moment, he carried his severely wounded battalion commander to safety, ensuring the mission’s success. His courage under fire, tactical brilliance, and selfless devotion to his Marines exemplified the highest ideals of the Marine Corps and the United States military.

For his gallantry and intrepidity in the face of overwhelming enemy forces, Vargas was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Richard Nixon. His valor, sacrifice, and leadership continue to inspire generations of Marines.

After his military career, COL Vargas served as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for California, tirelessly advocating for veterans’ rights. His legacy as a Vietnam War hero and dedicated public servant remains an enduring testament to duty, honor, and country.

Listen to Episode 3014 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps COL Jay R. Vargas.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Navy LT Michael E. Thornton.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3013 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Navy LT Michael E. Thornton. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

LT Michael E. Thornton, a U.S. Navy SEAL, earned the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War on October 31, 1972. As part of SEAL Team ONE, Thornton and four others, including Lieutenant Thomas Norris, embarked on a high-risk reconnaissance mission deep in enemy-controlled territory near the Cua Viet River.

After successfully gathering intelligence, the team was ambushed by a large North Vietnamese Army (NVA) force. Under heavy fire, Thornton fought fiercely, eliminating multiple enemy combatants. When a enemy gunshot critically wounded Norris, Thornton sprinted across open terrain, evading relentless fire to rescue him. He carried the unconscious officer over his shoulder, neutralizing additional enemy fighters along the way.

Despite being outnumbered, Thornton refused to leave anyone behind. He retrieved a wounded South Vietnamese teammate and swam both Norris and the ally over two miles to the open sea, where they were eventually rescued. His actions directly saved Norris’ life, making Norris the only Medal of Honor recipient to be rescued by a future recipient.

For his unparalleled bravery, unwavering dedication, and selfless service, LT Michael Thornton was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1973 by President Richard Nixon. His legacy endures as a testament to the valor, resilience, and brotherhood of U.S. Navy SEALs. His courage in the face of overwhelming odds remains an inspiration to warriors and patriots alike, solidifying his place among the greatest American heroes in military history.

Listen to Episode 3013 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Navy LT Michael E. Thornton.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army MAJ James Allen Taylor.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3012 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army MAJ James Allen Taylor. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

James Allen Taylor was born on December 31, 1937 at Arcata, California. He is a retired United States Army officer and a recipient of the United States military’s highest decoration—the Medal of Honor—for his actions in the Vietnam War.

Taylor joined the United States Army at San Francisco, California, in 1956 and was commissioned as an officer in 1965. On November 8, 1967, he was serving as a first lieutenant in Troop B, 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, Americal Division. When his commander was wounded in action, Taylor was ordered into the combat zone to take command and prepare a search-and-destroy mission. During a battle the next day, west of Que Son in the Republic of Vietnam, Taylor repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to rescue crewmen from damaged assault vehicles and personnel carriers. He was subsequently promoted to captain and awarded the Medal of Honor on November 19, 1968.

Taylor reached the rank of major before retiring from the army in 1980. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminology from the University of Tampa.

Listen to Episode 3012 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army MAJ James Allen Taylor.

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Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army CPT Jon E. Swanson.

Medal of Honor

Episode 3011 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army CPT Jon E. Swanson. Information featured in this episode comes from Wikipedia.

U.S. Army Captain Jon E. Swanson was a courageous helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War, known for his fearless devotion to duty. Serving with the B/1/9^th Cav/1^st Cav Div, CPT Swanson flew OH-6A Cayuse scout helicopters on high-risk reconnaissance missions deep into enemy territory. His bravery and aerial expertise saved countless American lives.

On February 26, 1971, during a critical mission in Cambodia, CPT Swanson and his observer were conducting a dangerous low-level reconnaissance flight when they encountered heavy enemy fire. Without hesitation, he engaged the enemy, marking targets for artillery and airstrikes. Spotting well-concealed North Vietnamese bunkers, he used his helicopter’s grenade launcher to destroy several positions.

Despite intense anti-aircraft fire, CPT Swanson continued his assault, neutralizing enemy threats. While making a final attack run, his helicopter was struck by enemy fire and crashed in the dense jungle. He was declared missing in action until his remains were recovered decades later.

For his extraordinary heroism, CPT Jon E. Swanson was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor on May 1, 2002. His selfless sacrifice and fearless combat actions exemplify the highest traditions of military service. His legacy as a Vietnam War hero endures, reminding future generations of the bravery displayed by those who gave their lives for freedom.

CPT Swanson’s name is etched on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., honoring his ultimate sacrifice. His Medal of Honor citation stands as a testament to his valor, ensuring his story will never be forgotten.

Listen to Episode 3011 and discover more about Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army CPT Jon E. Swanson.

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