Vietnam Veteran News

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Artist’s rendering of memorial for victims of Agent Orange exposure to be unveiled next month at Lake Park in Des Plaines.

Episode 3118 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about  the the unveiling of an Agent Orange memorial in Des Plaines, IL. The featured story appeared on The Journal & Topics Media Group website. It is titled: Unveil Memorial To Victims Of Agent Orange During Vietnam War on Oct. 11.  It was submitted by Todd Wessell.

Wessell reported that after undergoing heart surgery in 2022, Vietnam veteran Craig Jacobs had a powerful realization: the suffering caused by Agent Orange needed to be honored and remembered. Jacobs, a member of Des Plaines American Legion Post 36 and the local Vietnam Veterans Association, was inspired to create a memorial for those affected by the deadly chemical. His own exposure occurred in 1971 while serving at Da Nang Air Base in Vietnam with the U.S. Navy.

Agent Orange, a toxic defoliant used during the Vietnam War, contained TCDD, a highly dangerous dioxin. Its purpose was to strip vegetation and crops, but it left a devastating human toll. An estimated 300,000 American veterans have died from Agent Orange-related illnesses, including cancers, heart disease, and other severe health conditions. In Vietnam, the chemical is believed to have caused another 400,000 deaths. Countless others—veterans and Vietnamese civilians alike—continue to suffer from its long-term effects.

For Jacobs, the pain is personal. He later discovered that two friends he served with had died from Agent Orange exposure—he only learned of their deaths after attempting to reconnect with them post-war.

Now, his vision will be realized on October 11, when an Agent Orange Memorial will be unveiled at the Lake Park Memorial Pavilion in Des Plaines. The monument honors all who died because of the chemical, and acknowledges those still battling its effects. A portion of the inscription reads: “In memory of all those who died because of this chemical. Pray for those still suffering.”

The public is invited to attend the ceremony, which will take place on the west side of the band shell, as a solemn tribute to the immense suffering endured by Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange.

Listen to Episode 3118 and discover more about the unveiling of an Agent Orange memorial in Des Plaines, IL

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Retired Staff Agt. Arthur Bryan, a Killeen resident and lifelong musician who served in the National Guard and spent 20 years on active duty playing trumpet in Army bands, performed “Amazing Grace” on trumpet during POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony in Killeen.[John Clark – Herald]

Episode 3117 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about  the Ceremony for National POW/MIA Recognition Day Held at Killeen, Texas.   The featured story appeared in The Killeen Daily Herald. It is titled: Local veterans group hosts ceremony for National POW/MIA Recognition Day.  It was submitted by John Clark, a Herald correspondent.

Clark reported that on a recent Friday morning, veterans, officials, and community members gathered outside the Killeen Civic and Conference Center to honor National POW/MIA Recognition Day, a solemn event dedicated to remembering prisoners of war and those still missing in action. Hosted by Star Group-Veterans Helping Veterans of Copperas Cove, the ceremony took place near the Korean War Memorial and featured the posting of colors, the national anthem, scripture, prayer, and wreath-laying by numerous local veterans’ organizations.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day, established in 1979, is observed nationwide on the third Friday of September to honor those who endured captivity and those whose fates remain unknown. The Killeen event brought together representatives from Killeen, Harker Heights, and Copperas Cove to affirm their commitment to never forgetting these heroes.

Retired U.S. Army officer and Vietnam veteran Ed Mullins shared a powerful personal story about a failed mission to rescue American POWs during the Vietnam War. Though his unit narrowly missed saving them, Mullins reflected on the lasting weight of that mission. “We owe them the honor of remembering,” he said, emphasizing the moral duty to recognize those left behind.

A symbolic “Missing Man Table” was unveiled, featuring items representing loss, hope, and remembrance. Killeen City Council member Anthony Kendrick summed up the spirit of the day: “We must not forget those that did not come home.”

The ceremony in Killeen was more than a tribute—it was a reminder that the sacrifices of POWs and MIAs are not forgotten. As communities across the country continue to honor them, events like this ensure their legacy endures.

Listen to Episode 3117 and discover more about the Ceremony for National POW/MIA Recognition Day Held at Killeen, Texas.

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Little-known retired Vietnam era UH-1B Huey helicopter keeps vigil over the VA’s Veteran Museum, the VA FARMS gardens and both the Korea and Vietnam War memorials on the VA Portland’s Vancouver campus. Photo by Nick Choy.

Lady Bell, a UH-1B Iroquois helicopter, sits on a pedestal with a fresh coat of paint Thursday during a rededication ceremony at the Vancouver VA Medical Center campus. (Taylor Balkom/The Columbian)

Episode 3116 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how the UH-1B on display at the Vancouver VA Medical Center was restored.   The featured story appeared in The Columbian. It is titled: VA rededicates Vietnam War-era helicopter as tribute to veterans.  It was submitted by Doug Flanagan, a Columbian staff writer.

Flanagan reported that the Lady Bell, a Vietnam War-era UH-1B Iroquois “Huey” helicopter, has stood as a solemn tribute to veterans at the Vancouver VA Medical Center since 2008. Over time, weather left the aircraft in a deteriorated state—until James Donnelly stepped in. An architect and health care engineer for the VA Portland Health Care System, Donnelly led a remarkable month long refurbishment effort this summer, showcasing exceptional skill and dedication.

Donnelly brought a unique background to the project, having served as an aviation structural mechanic and corrosion-control specialist in the U.S. Navy. When he saw the Lady Bell’s condition, he didn’t hesitate to volunteer, believing he was “uniquely suited” for the job. Under his leadership from early July to August, the team power-washed, sanded, patched, and repainted the aircraft atop its 25-foot pedestal—even braving intense heat and wind. Donnelly also added a new insignia to reflect the helicopter’s medevac mission.

His work culminated in a re dedication ceremony that highlighted the Huey’s renewed purpose: to inspire, educate, and honor veterans’ sacrifices. Interim VA Director Karla Azcuy praised the restoration, calling the Lady Bell “a powerful symbol of service, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of our veterans.”

This marks the second major restoration for the helicopter, originally saved by a veteran-led volunteer team in the 2000s. Thanks to Donnelly’s outstanding leadership and heartfelt commitment, the Lady Bell stands proudly once again—her iconic silhouette reminding all who see her of the bravery and hope she once carried into battle.

Listen to Episode 3116 and discover more about how the UH-1B on display at the Vancouver VA Medical Center was restored.

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Skip Daley. COURTESY PHOTO

Episode 3115 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Brewster, Massachusetts hometown hero Vietnam Vet Skip Daley.  The featured story appeared in The Cape Cod Chronicle. It is titled: Honoring The Late Skip Daley, Vietnam War Hero From Brewster.  It was submitted by Greg O’Brien.

O’Brien reported that First Lt. Walter “Skip” Daley was more than a hometown hero—he was the very embodiment of courage, leadership, and sacrifice. Born and raised in Brewster, Skip was a standout athlete and student, eventually attending Springfield College before serving in Vietnam. In 1967, during a brutal night ambush near Bong Son, he displayed extraordinary bravery by crawling under enemy fire to rally his platoon and throwing back a grenade to save fellow soldiers. He died instantly, sacrificing his life to protect others. For his valor, Skip was awarded the Silver Star, one of the nation’s highest military honors.

Skip’s legacy lives on not only in the hearts of those who knew him, but also through the Walter “Skip” Daley Memorial Scholarship Fund, founded in 1971. Now managed by the Brewster Historical Society, this fund honors his memory by supporting Brewster students pursuing post-high school education. The fund is more than a tribute—it’s a bridge connecting Brewster’s proud past with its promising future.

The Brewster Historical Society, housed in the historic Cobb House Museum, now oversees this vital cause. As costs for education rise, this fund plays a critical role in helping students achieve their dreams while remembering a young man who gave everything for his country.

Skip Daley’s story is one of heroism that defines a town and inspires generations. Donations to the scholarship fund are tax-deductible and can be made via the Brewster Historical Society (brewsterhistoricalsociety.org).

Let us remember Skip Daley—not just as a fallen soldier, but as a shining example of selfless service. Support the fund. Honor his sacrifice. Invest in Brewster’s future.

Listen to Episode 3115 and discover more about Brewster, Massachusetts hometown hero Vietnam Vet Skip Daley.

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Al Varelas of the Military Order of the Purple Heart reveals one of the five signs that will greet motorists at entryways to Buckland during a ceremony on Monday declaring Buckland to be a Purple Heart Town. STAFF PHOTO/PAUL FRANZ

Buckland Selectboard Chair Clint Phillips with his father, Purple Heart recipient Arthur Phillips, at a ceremony on Monday declaring Buckland to be a Purple Heart Town. STAFF PHOTO/PAUL FRANZ

Episode 3114 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about How Buckland, Massachusetts honors its veterans. . The featured story appeared in The Greenfield Recorder. It is titled: With Purple Heart Town declaration, Buckland expresses ‘utmost admiration’ for veterans.. It was submitted by Madison Schofield.

Schofield reported that In a heartfelt ceremony at Town Hall, Buckland was officially declared a Purple Heart Town, a designation that honors veterans wounded or killed in combat. The event emphasized deep respect and gratitude for those who have served, particularly through the work of the Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH).

Select Board Chair Clint Phillips, whose father is a Vietnam War Purple Heart recipient, led the ceremony, expressing his admiration for veterans and acknowledging both visible and invisible wounds of war. “These soldiers didn’t do it for themselves; they did it for us,” Phillips stated.

The ceremony featured a formal proclamation, the unveiling of five roadside signs marking the town’s new designation, and remarks from local and state officials, including Rep. Natalie Blais. She praised the town’s commitment to honoring military service, calling it “incredibly important to recognize” the sacrifices made by service members.

Central to the process was the Military Order of the Purple Heart, a congressionally chartered organization founded in 1932. MOPH supports Purple Heart recipients and Gold Star families and guides towns through the process of becoming Purple Heart Communities. Massachusetts Chapter 875 Commander Al Varelas emphasized the organization’s role in ensuring proper recognition. After a procedural misstep earlier in the year, Buckland worked closely with MOPH to meet the requirements and “do it right.”

Varelas reminded attendees that while the number of Purple Heart recipients may be dwindling—a sign of fewer combat injuries—organizations like MOPH remain vital in preserving their legacy. “It’s an honor to be up here today,” he said. “Welcome to our family.”

Listen to Episode 3114 and discover more about How Buckland, Massachusetts honors its veterans.

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Artist Brian Fox stands in his Fall River studio on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025. [Herald News/Colin Furze

Episode 3112 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Artist Brian Fox’s Fall River, MA Vietnam Veterans exhibit. The featured story appeared in The Herald News. It is titled: Fall River artist Brian Fox to unveil Vietnam exhibit. See what inspired his military series.. It was submitted by Greg Sullivan.

Reported this: Renowned Fall River artist Brian Fox is set to unveil a powerful new exhibit, “In the Valley of the Shadow: The Cost of Walking with Death,” at the Narrows Center for the Arts from Oct. 18 to Dec. 27. Known for portraits of celebrities and sports icons, Fox shifts focus to Vietnam War soldiers — and critically, to the under recognized women who served beside them.

The series of 25 paintings and sketches draws on deep collaboration with Vietnam veterans, who provided direct feedback in Fox’s studio. One standout work, “Vietnam Nurse,” marks a turning point in the collection. It’s the only color piece, the only one depicting a woman, and one of the most emotionally resonant. Based on extensive research and guidance from former military nurses like Mary Goff, the painting honors the estimated 10,000 American women — 90% of them nurses — who served in Vietnam.

Fox emphasized the immense sacrifices these women made, often working grueling 12-hour shifts in traumatic conditions. Many returned home unrecognized, with some Americans unaware that women had even served in Vietnam. Veterans who viewed the painting reportedly became emotional, telling Fox: “You have no idea how important these nurses were to us.”

Other highlights include a series painted on rusting metal to represent the invisible, corrosive toll of Agent Orange — a haunting metaphor for the ongoing health crises among aging vets.

Fox insists the exhibit does not glorify war. Instead, it demands reflection on its human cost. The exhibit is already drawing interest from local schools and may tour nationally. A companion book by author Steve Manchester will further explore the stories behind the art.

Above all, Fox’s work shines a long-overdue spotlight on women nurses — the silent heroes who saved lives in the shadows of war.

Listen to Episode 3113 and discover more about Artist Brian Fox’s Fall River, MA Vietnam Veterans exhibit.

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Vietnam Vet George Stavropoulos at the White House.

Episode 3112 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the honor received by Vietnam Veteran George Stavropoulos. The featured story appeared on the Current Limited LLC website. It is titled: Purple Heart Hero: Longtime Fishers resident, Vietnam veteran honored at White House event. It was submitted by David Jacobs.

Jacobs reported that George Stavropoulos exemplifies the bravery, sacrifice, and honor of Vietnam War veterans — a generation of heroes whose contributions remain deeply significant. At just 20 years old, Stavropoulos, a U.S. Navy hospital corpsman, endured life-threatening injuries within his first few months in Vietnam. Shot on his first day in-country, he refused a Purple Heart to shield his family from worry. Just weeks later, he was wounded again by shrapnel, and his combat service ended following a brutal ambush during Operation Buffalo, where he sustained multiple injuries and earned three additional Purple Hearts. That operation claimed the lives of 159 U.S. Marines.

Despite these harrowing experiences, Stavropoulos has no regrets about serving. Driven by duty, he enlisted at 18 to serve as a medic rather than wait to be drafted. His valor in combat earned him the prestigious Silver Star Medal, the nation’s third-highest award for battlefield gallantry.

Post-service, he continued to serve his community as a police officer and private investigator. Still active today, he was honored in 2023 by the Purple Heart Patriot Project and inducted into the Indiana Military Veterans Hall of Fame.

A proud member of the Fishers Armed Services Commission, Stavropoulos played a key role in honoring fellow veterans, including the installation of the Gold Star Monument. His reflections on service are profound: “It was an honor to serve in Vietnam with the finest military in the world… I would do it again in a heartbeat.”

Vietnam veterans like George Stavropoulos deserve enduring recognition. Their courage, devotion, and continued contributions to community and country represent the highest ideals of American service.

Listen to Episode 3112 and discover more about the honor received by Vietnam Veteran George Stavropoulos.

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A crowd gathers for the opening of a new exhibit at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Fla., honoring POWs. (National Naval Aviation Museum/Facebook) Read more at: https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2025-09-20/pow-mia-day-museum-exhibit-19157872.html Source – Stars and Stripes

Episode 3111 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about about the three Navy Vietnam War POW’s who were honored at the National Naval Aviation Museum. The featured story appeared on the Stars and Stripes website. It is titled: ‘Live on in this new exhibit’: 3 veterans tell their stories as National Naval Aviation Museum debuts tribute to Vietnam War POWs!. It was submitted by Matthew Adams.

Adams reported that at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida, three extraordinary Navy pilots — John “Jack” Ensch, Everett Alvarez, and Michael “Mike” McGrath — were honored during the opening of a powerful new exhibit commemorating American prisoners of war. Their presence marked National POW/MIA Recognition Day and brought living testimony to the courage, endurance, and sacrifice of U.S. servicemen held in captivity during the Vietnam War.

Captain Jack Ensch, who flew 285 combat missions, was captured in August 1972 and endured seven months of captivity. Though he humbly described his experience as a “walk in the park” compared to others, his valor and resilience stand tall among heroes.

Commander Everett Alvarez, the first American pilot captured in North Vietnam, was shot down in August 1964 and spent an astonishing 8½ years as a prisoner — most of it in the brutal “Hanoi Hilton.” His grit, humor, and leadership set the tone for those who came after him. “You had to come early to get the good room,” he joked, embodying the indomitable spirit that helped sustain fellow POWs through years of suffering.

Commander Mike McGrath, gravely wounded when shot down in 1967, survived relentless torture and near death. His harrowing account of broken bones, brutal interrogations, and emotional resilience underscored the physical and psychological toll these men endured. He echoed the wisdom of fellow POW James Stockdale, reminding all that “resistance” wasn’t about perfection, but about bouncing back — again and again.

These three men personify bravery, sacrifice, and the unbreakable will of American warriors. Their stories now live on in the museum’s immersive exhibit, preserving their legacy and honoring all who were held captive in service to their country.

Listen to Episode 3111 and discover more about the three Navy Vietnam War POW’s who were honored at the National Naval Aviation Museum.

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Episode 3110 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the civil engineers of the U.S. Air Force. The featured story appeared on the Angel Blog. It is titled: Air Force Birthday: Engineers Lead the Way!. It was submitted by Mike Isaac-Jimenez.

Isaac-Jimenez reported that on the U.S. Air Force’s birthday, it’s essential to spotlight the often-unsung heroes who make every mission possible: the Civil Engineers. While the roar of jet engines captures imaginations, it’s the silent strength of engineers that ensures every aircraft has a runway, every base has infrastructure, and every mission has support.

From their roots in the Army Air Corps to the creation of the Air Force in 1947, civil engineers have been the bedrock of air power. Whether carving runways under fire in WWII, responding to disasters, or building bases from the ground up, their ingenuity has shaped victories and saved lives. Programs like Prime BEEF and RED HORSE embody this legacy—offering rapid response and heavy construction capabilities in the world’s most dangerous and remote environments.

Today’s Air Force Civil Engineers manage everything from utilities and fire protection to cyber-defense and disaster relief. They build, repair, and protect—anywhere, anytime.

For over 70 years, they’ve been first in and last out, proving that without infrastructure, air power cannot take flight. Their story is one of purpose, resilience, and quiet strength. On this Air Force birthday, we honor those who truly build the mission.

Listen to Episode 3110 and discover more about the civil engineers of the U.S. Air Force.

Richard Hogue on the left

Richard Hogue in Vietnam

Episode 3109 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature stories about the service and contributions of Vietnam Veteran Richard Hogue. The featured story appeared on KDVR, Fox31 in Denver, Colorado. It is titled: Littleton veteran details harrowing Vietnam war attack that led to amputation. It was submitted by Jeremy Hubbard.

In his story, Hubbard reported that Richard Hogue, a Vietnam War veteran, is a true testament to resilience and courage. During an ambush in January 1970 near the Ho Bo Woods, Hogue was severely wounded by a booby trap, resulting in the loss of half his left leg. Despite surviving an explosion that also left shrapnel in his head and killed many in his platoon, Hogue’s determination never wavered. After learning to walk again with a prosthetic, he continued to serve his country in a new way, becoming a government contractor and dedicated volunteer with organizations like the All Veterans Honor Guard, which honors fallen heroes at Fort Logan National Cemetery.

Throughout his life, Hogue has earned multiple commendations, including two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star. Yet, he remains humble, emphasizing that his Vietnam experience, while challenging, ultimately made him a better person. Now, Hogue is being recognized as the FOX31 Hero of the Month for September 2025 for his unwavering commitment to veterans and service to others.

Hogue’s story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices our military service members make. If you know a veteran or active-duty service member who embodies that same spirit, nominate them for the FOX31 Hero of the Month honors by visiting their nomination page. Let’s continue to honor and recognize the incredible men and women who have served and are serving our country.

Listen to Episode 3109 and discover more about the service and contributions of Vietnam Veteran Richard Hogue.