My Journey Through War: From Notre Dame to Vietnam

🎓My father's greatest expectation was for me to attend Notre Dame, so he applied for me when I didn't think I could get in academically.

👣Despite struggling academically, I enlisted in the Marine Corps to avoid getting drafted and went through rigorous training.

💔My father didn't speak to me after I enlisted, feeling betrayed and disappointed, which deeply affected me.

👣I served as a Forward Observer in Vietnam, going on patrols and facing the constant threat of attack.

💥During the siege of Hill 861, we faced intense enemy fire, casualties, and constant fear.

Why did you decide to enlist in the Marine Corps?

—I enlisted to avoid getting drafted and to have some control over my fate. I wanted to challenge myself and prove my worth.

How did your experience in Vietnam shape your perspective on war?

—Vietnam taught me about the harsh realities of war, the sacrifices of those who serve, and the importance of peace. It made me appreciate life more and value the importance of understanding and empathy.

What was the most challenging part of your time in Vietnam?

—The constant fear for your life and the lives of your comrades was incredibly challenging. The loss of friends and witnessing the devastation of war deeply impacted me.

Did your relationship with your father improve after Vietnam?

—It took time, but eventually, my father and I rebuilt our relationship. We both experienced a great deal of growth and forgiveness, and our bond became even stronger.

What lessons did you learn from your time in Vietnam?

—I learned the value of sacrifice, the importance of camaraderie, and the need for peace. Vietnam taught me to appreciate life and to always seek understanding and compassion.

00:01I initially didn't think I could get into Notre Dame academically and wanted to focus on football.

01:04My father, an FBI agent, applied for me to attend Notre Dame, and I reluctantly went.

03:58After struggling academically, I flunked out of Notre Dame and faced my father's disappointment and anger.

05:58In an attempt to avoid getting drafted, I enlisted in the Marine Corps and became a Forward Observer.

08:43I experienced the intensity of war during the siege of Hill 861, facing constant danger and loss.

11:09The loss of a fellow Marine during a patrol deeply impacted me and reinforced the harsh realities of war.

12:17Vietnam shaped my perspective on war, teaching me about sacrifice, peace, and the value of empathy.

12:55My experiences in Vietnam made me appreciate life more and strive for understanding and compassion.