Jimmy explained his first night in Vietnam by stating that he was "up all night long" and that he "fired all night long."
Jimmy recently underwent an open heart surgery and in recovering from this surgery he states that his memories have been more vivid.
When I asked Jimmy if he could explain his experience in Vietnam in just a few words, his reply was "totally Hell".
Jimmy went on to explain about the medals and honors he was given while in Vietnam. Jimmy became an "E5" while serving.
Jimmy served in the Vietnam War from May 1968 until August of 1969. Jimmy stayed an extra 63 days over his drafted term so he could "ET" or "Issue Out".
Jimmy went on to explain the horrid aftermath of war, and how he and other returning soldiers were treated by American citizens upon their arrival back to the U.S. "It was a disaster coming home," he says. He had eggs thrown at him. They called him names too awful to repeat. They lit cherry bombs and fire crackers and threw them in his direction, just to scare him. He was told, prior to leaving Vietnam, to wear civilian clothing when going home to the states, to minimize the risk of harassment. It didn't help.
This is a day in the life of a Veteran.
Thanks for reading! -Danielle