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Janet Graham, University of Nebraska – Kearney, reviewed Hanoi at Night reviewer.

Episode 2791 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature an interview with Janet Graham about her review of the book Hanoi at Midnight by Vietnamese writer Bảo Ninh. Graham will be interviewed by Andy Pham, a good friend of this podcast.

Graham is a professor at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. In this interview she talks about the book titled Hanoi at Midnight by Vietnamese writer Bảo Ninh.

Bảo Ninh, a well-known Vietnamese writer, makes a long-awaited reappearance in English translation in this new short-story collection, speaking to literature’s power to unite people, both in the collaboration necessary for translating and publishing it, and in its ability to speak directly to the ephemeral beauty and terror of the human experience. Nearly twenty years ago, his novel The Sorrow of War, banned in Vietnam until 2006, became the first Vietnamese novel about the so-called American War to be translated into English. Dedicated to his comrades, Hà Nội at Midnight represents twelve of Bảo Ninh’s most highly regarded stories, published in Vietnam between 1987 and 2013, ten of which have never appeared in English. The two stories previously published in English translation, “The Secret of the River” and “Untamed Winds,” were retranslated at the author’s request.

Some readers may find Bảo Ninh’s layered themes and fragmentary style as showcased in Hà Nội at MidnightOther Moons, mentioned above. He and writers of his generation focus on “how people lived and suffered during and after the war,” arguing that they “write to express their love for peace.”

Quoting him in the foreword to Hà Nội at Midnight, Nguyễn Văn Thuấn of Huế University claims that Bảo Ninh successfully advocates for peace when he writes about war, and adds that Bảo Ninh combines poetic and meticulous description to depict “daily life in contemporary Việt Nam, unfulfilled promises, domestic conflicts, and romantic love.”

Listen to episode 2791 and discover more about Janet Graham and her review of the book Hanoi at Midnight.

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Medal of Honor recipient Army SFC Webster Anderson

Episode 2790 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Army SFC Webster Anderson and his Congressional Medal of Honor award honors. The featured story comes from the We are the Mighty website and was titled: MoH Monday: Remembering triple amputee SFC Webster Anderson. It was submitted by Senior Writer Jessica Evans.

Evans has more than a decade of content writing experience and a heart for military stories. Her work focuses on unearthing long-forgotten stories and illuminating unsung heroes. She is a member of the Editorial Freelance Association and volunteers her time with Veterans Writing Project, where she mentors military-connected writers.

Evans reported that Webster Anderson’s journey with the U.S. Army began in 1953. Like a moth drawn to a flame, the unrest in Asia beckoned him to serve in the Korean War, right after his enlistment. His unwavering commitment and tenacity soon saw him rise to the position of Staff Sergeant for Battery A, 2nd Battalion, 320 Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Infantry Division.

As the Korean War started to lose its steam in late 1953, a fresh bout of tension was fermenting in the heart of Southeast Asia—Vietnam. By 1967, the scene was set for Anderson. He was heading right for the main military base in Quang Nam, Vietnam, and it wasn’t entirely clear what awaited him there.

Fast forward to the early hours of October 15, 1967. SCF Anderson and his battalion were stationed near Tam Ky in South Vietnam. Out of nowhere, the tranquility of their morning shattered as the North Vietnamese infantry launched an onslaught. Anderson stood in the eye of the storm. He fearlessly confronted the onslaught, hurling grenades at enemy snipers.

Listen to episode 2790 and discover more about Army SFC Webster Anderson and his Congressional Medal of Honor award honors.

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Army Specialist Leonard Alvarado served in Vietnam with D/2/12th Cav/1st Cav Div.

Episode 2789 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Army Specialist Leonard Alvarado and his Congressional Medal of Honor award honors. The featured story comes from the We are the Mighty website and was titled: Medal of Honor Monday: Army Specialist Leonard Alvarado. It was submitted by Senior Writer Jessica Evans.

Evans has more than a decade of content writing experience and a heart for military stories. Her work focuses on unearthing long-forgotten stories and illuminating unsung heroes. She is a member of the Editorial Freelance Association and volunteers her time with Veterans Writing Project, where she mentors military-connected writers.

Evans reported that Leonard Louis Alvarado was a United States Army Soldier who bravely served his country during the Vietnam War. Born in 1947 in Bakersfield, California, Alvarado joined the Army in 1968. Shortly after, he joined Company D, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division.

During his service, he demonstrated extraordinary courage and heroism. This earned him the Medal of Honor for his actions during a fierce battle in Phuoc Long Province, Vietnam, on August 12, 1969.

On March 18, 2014, during a special ceremony at the White House, President Barack Obama presented Alvarado’s daughter Leonora with his Medal of Honor. Alvarado is also a posthumous recipient of Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, and Purple Heart.

Alvarado repeatedly put himself in danger to rescue members of his unit. His actions resulted in single-handedly destroying an enemy machine-gun emplacement. His selflessness and unwavering dedication to his fellow soldiers serve as a testament to his character and bravery.

Alvarado is a tremendous representative of the great Vietnam Veteran Generation – one as great as any that ever heeded the call of duty from our country.

Listen to episode 2789 and discover more about Army Specialist Leonard Alvarado and his Congressional Medal of Honor award honors.

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Sergeant First Class John Baca

Episode 2788 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Sergeant First Class John Baca and his Congressional Medal of Honor award honors. The featured story comes from The We are the Mighty website and was titled: Medal of Honor Monday: Sergeant First Class John Baca. It was submitted by Senior Writer Jessica Evans.

Evans has more than a decade of content writing experience and a heart for military stories. Her work focuses on unearthing long-forgotten stories and illuminating unsung heroes. She is a member of the Editorial Freelance Association and volunteers her time with Veterans Writing Project, where she mentors military-connected writers.

Evans reported that Baca was born on January 10, 1949, in Providence, Rhode Island, Baca’s journey commenced in sunny San Diego, California. However, in 1968, fate intervened. Abruptly, the draft swept him away from the comforts of home, thrusting him into the harsh realities of the Vietnam War. Following grueling basic training, Baca found himself serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. Then, by 1970, he arrived in Vietnam, fully prepared to confront the daunting challenges of Operation Toan Thang IV.

Sergeant First Class John Phillip Baca’s inspiring journey from a small town in Rhode Island to the battlefields of Vietnam showcases the indomitable courage and selflessness that define a true hero. Recognized with the Medal of Honor, his brave actions testify to his unwavering commitment to protecting and serving others. Furthermore, Baca’s dedication to veterans and his relentless fight against homelessness highlight the enduring spirit of his service. His legacy resonates, inspiring future generations. Sergeant First Class John Phillip Baca exemplifies valor and honor, serving as a shining inspiration for us all to strive for greatness and create meaningful impact in the world.

Listen to episode 2788 and discover more about Sergeant First Class John Bacaand his Congressional Medal of Honor award honors.

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Navy F-4 Fighter in combat in Vietnam

Episode 2787 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about why the kill ratio between American and North Vietnamese in Vietnam fighter aircraft was so different from the Korean War The featured story appeared on the Aviation Geek Club website and was titled, Here’s why before TOPGUN, Navy F-4 Phantom II fighter crews in Vietnam managed only a 2.5:1 kill ratio versus Soviet-built MiG-17 and MiG-21 fighters. The story was submitted by Donald Auten.

It was reported that by the end of the Korean War, Navy, Marine, and Air Force pilots had demonstrated their air combat prowess over Korean and Chinese fighter pilots by racking up an exchange rate of over ten-to-one. In spite of its horror, the war provided iron-clad proof that by developing better tactics and maneuvers, providing better training, and applying innovative concepts to the battlefield, U.S. airmen could reign triumphantly, even when confronting opponents with superior equipment. This lesson would have significant influence on Navy, Marine, and USAF fighter crews in the air war over Vietnam.

The F-4 Phantom II entered the fleet in 1962, nine years after the Korean War. Early in the Vietnam War, the Navy and USAF discovered they were using the right airplane in the wrong battle environment. Kill ratios were in the vicinity of two- and one-half enemy aircraft shot down for each U.S. airplane lost, a far cry from the ten to one kill ratio experienced during the Korean conflict.

There was much concern over blue-on-blue engagements in Vietnam. The rules of engagement written to avoid fratricide were complex and restrictive. Prior to firing missiles at another aircraft, U.S. fighter crews were required to have one of two conditions met: a positive visual identification (VID) or clearance from an intercept controller with positive radar identification.

Listen to episode 2787 and discover more about why the kill ratio between American and North Vietnamese fighter aircraft was so different from the Korean War.

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U.S. Air Force Capt. Atis Karlis Lielmanis

Bucks County bridge dedication,

Episode 2786 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the renaming of a bridge in Bucks County, PA to honor the memory of fallen Vietnam Vet U.S. Air Force Capt. Atis Karlis Lielmanis. The featured story comes from Bucks County website and was titled, Upper Bucks Bridge Renamed for First Bucks Resident Killed in Vietnam War.

It was reported that the County of Bucks renamed county-owned Bridge #361 in Tinicum Township for U.S. Air Force Capt. Atis Karlis Lielmanis, the first Bucks County resident killed in action during the Vietnam War.

Lielmanis was serving as an Advisor-Navigator aboard a B-26B Marauder bomber aircraft on Nov. 24, 1963, when it was purposely exposed during a low-level flight above hidden Viet Cong machine gun installations. His bomber took fire and crashed, but in the process revealed enemy positions, leading to their destruction by cover aircraft and saving friendly lives.

“As we come up on Memorial Day, we think about the over one million Americans, from all walks of life, who have given the ultimate sacrifice so that we may be here as the strongest and proudest and most successful country on Earth,” said Commissioner Vice Chair Bob Harvie.

It was further reported tant Lielmanis was born Jan. 2, 1939, in Latvia, and came to the United States with his family in 1950. They settled in Quakertown, where he attended and graduated from Quakertown High School seven years later. In high school, Lielmanis played on the volleyball, basketball, cross-country and chess teams, and was also the art editor for the school magazine. He attended Lehigh University before enlisting in the Air Force in 1958.

Listen to episode 2786 and discover more about the renaming of a bridge in Bucks County, PA to honor the memory of fallen Vietnam Vet U.S. Air Force Capt. Atis Karlis Lielmanis.

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A Navy Douglas A-3 Skywarrior in attack mode over North Vietnam.

Episode 2785 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about The Navy A-3 Skywarrior in Vietnam and how it got a reputation as the most accurate dive bomber in the War. The featured story comes from The Aviation Geek Club website and was titled: Did you know that even though the A-3 Skywarrior didn’t have a bombsight was the most accurate dive bomber during the Vietnam War? It was submitted by Dario Leone, of the Aviation Geek Club Website.

Dario was born in 1984, since his youth he has always been interested in every kind of aeronautical subjects from die-cast models to books. After having written for several media outlets, his unique fascination with aircraft led him to launch his website.

Built from a true aviation geek for true aviation geeks, this blog is aimed to create a community of people who can read and talk about every aviation topic, from never told stories to latest news.

Dario, in his story, reported that The Douglas A-3 Skywarrior was designed as a strategic bomber for the United States Navy and was among the longest serving carrier-based aircraft in history. It entered service in the mid-1950s and was retired in 1991. Throughout its service, it was the heaviest operational aircraft to operate from aircraft carriers, earning its nickname, “The Whale.” Its primary function for much of its later service life was as an electronic warfare platform, tactical air reconnaissance platform, and high capacity aerial refueling tanker.

The last combat mission flown by the Skywarrior involved the Navy’s first attempt to mine the river approaches to Haiphong Harbor in May 1967.

Listen to episode 2785 and discover more about The Navy A-3 Skywarrior in Vietnam and how it got a reputation as the most accurate dive bomber in the War.

Notice to A-3 Skywarrior Bomber fans – get yourself one of these.

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Medal of Honor recepient Air Force Maj. Leo K. Thorsness

Maj. Leo K. Thorsness and the F-105 he flew on Apr. 19, 1967 over North Vietnam.

Episode 2784 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Air Force Maj. Leo K. Thorsness and his Congressional Medal of Honor award. The featured story comes from The Aviation Geek Club website and was titled: The F-105 pilot who glided his Thud to a safe landing with the fuel gauge reading “empty” after He directed a tanker to another F-105 dangerously low on fuel during a CSAR mission over North Vietnam. It was submitted by Dario Leone, the chief of the Aviation Geek Club Website.

Dario was born in 1984, since his youth he has always been interested in every kind of aeronautical subjects from die-cast models to books. After having written for several media outlets, his unique fascination with aircraft led him to launch his website.

Built from a true aviation geek for true aviation geeks, this blog is aimed to create a community of people who can read and talk about every aviation topic, from never told stories to latest news.

Dario, in his story, not only describes the exploits of Air Force Maj. Leo K. Thorsness that earned him the Congressional Medal of Honor, he also shares details about the type F-105 aircraft Thorsness flew on that fateful day.

Dario reported that in 1951 Republic Aviation began a project to develop a supersonic tactical fighter-bomber to replace the F-84F. The result was the F-105 Thunderchief, later affectionately nicknamed the “Thud.” A total of 833 Thunderchiefs of all types were built, including 610 F-105Ds.

He continued with this about the heroic actions of a brave American aviator, on Apr. 19, 1967, Maj. Leo K. Thorsness, a veteran 357th TFS Weasel pilot, led a flight of four F-105F Thunderchiefs on an Iron Hand mission in support of a raid against the Xuan Mai army barracks and storage supply area, roughly 37 miles south west of Hanoi.

Listen to episode 2784 and discover more about Air Force Maj. Leo K. Thorsness and his Congressional Medal of Honor award honors.

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Col. (Ret.) Ralph Puckett Jr., Medal of Honor recipient, poses with members of the 75th Ranger Regiment at the National Infantry Museum in Columbus, Ga. on Aug. 10, 2021. (U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Garrett Shreffler).

Episode 2783 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how Army Ranger and Vietnam Vet COL Ralph Puckett was honored at the U.S. Capitol. The featured story appeared on the Task and Purpose website and was titled: Ranger legend COL Ralph Puckett honored at U.S. Capitol.It was submitted by Patty Nieberg.

She is a senior staff writer for Task & Purpose. She has covered the military and national defense for five years, including embedding with the National Guard during Hurricane Florence and covering legal proceedings for a former al Qaeda commander at Guantanamo Bay. Her previous bylines can be found at the Associated Press, Bloomberg Government, Washington Post, The New York Times, and ABC.

In this story, Nieberg reported that Sen. Joni Ernst is one of the lead lawmakers crafting legislation that directly impacts American service members and veterans, but she found herself choking up Monday, April 29, 2024 remembering how her own military service had been shaped by the mentorship and friendship with Col. Ralph Puckett.

Ernst told Task & Purpose Monday, as her voice occasionally caught with emotion. “You would think he was a librarian. He was so quiet and so humble and he was such a good man,” For decades, Puckett was a mentor and example to generations around the 75th Ranger Regiment.

On Monday, April 29, 2024, Puckett became just the second Medal of Honor recipient to lie in honor, meaning his remains were accorded a public audience in the rotunda of Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. so that lawmakers and the public could pay personal respects. Ernst was among the Senators who arranged for the honor.

Listen to episode 2783 and discover more about how Army Ranger and VietnamVet COL Ralph Puckett was honored at the U.S. Capitol for his service to his country.

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Marine Vietnam Vet LTC Harlan Chapman then and now.

Episode 2782 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Marine Vietnam Vet Harlan Chapman and his life dedicated to honor and integrity. The featured story appeared on the Task and Purpose website and was titled: The Marine who was held longest as a Vietnam POW has passed away.

It was submitted by Jeff Schogol. He is a senior staff writer for Task & Purpose. He reports on both the Defense Department as a whole as well as individual services, covering a variety of topics that include personnel, policy, military justice, deployments, and technology. His apartment in Alexandria, Va., has served as the Task & Purpose Pentagon bureau since the pandemic first struck in March 2020. The dwelling is now known as Forward Operating Base Schogol.

In this story, Schogol reported that when Lt. Col. Harlan Chapman arrived in Hawaii  after his release from seven years in North Vietnamese prisoner of war camps,  Marine Lt. Gen. Louis Wilson was there to meet him. “Welcome back to the Marine Corps,” Wilson told Chapman. “Thank you, general,” Chapman replied, “But I never left.”

Chapman spent more time as a prisoner of war than any other Marine held in captivity during the Vietnam War, according to an official Marine Corps history of the conflict.

“Despite extreme cruelties during interrogation periods and severe maltreatment on a continual basis, Lieutenant Colonel Chapman distinguished himself by his indomitable spirit and dogged tenacity,” his Silver Star citation reads. “Refusing to provide the enemy with information, even that of a biographical nature, he aroused the increased wrath of his captors.”

Chapman’s wife Fran said this about her husband: throughout Chapman’s life, honor, integrity and family were his guiding principles,

Listen to episode 2782 and discover moreabout Marin Vietnam Vet Harlan Chapman and his life dedicated to honor and integrity.