Through September into November, Mount Mercy University sponsored a study series about the American war in Vietnam. This one involved a panel discussion of American and Vietnamese veterans. The naval officer in the white uniform related how he and his family (his American-born son on extreme left is an MMU chemistry professor) endured a harrowing escape on an over-crowded boat and were picked up by Americans in the South China Sea. The gentleman on the right told a fascinating story of how he was forced into a re-education camp by the North Vietnamese after the South's defeat in April 1975. They built barracks a did hard labor. His name is Phong Nguyen and he was held for eight years after his captors told him it would be a few weeks. According to Mr. Nguyen, there was no rhyme or reason as to the lengths of time he and others were held, but one day in his eighth year he was told he could return to his village for two years probation. During that time, he was spied on by his neighbors. He applied for a visa later and was able to leave Vietnam for the United States, of which he is now a US citizen.
"They were there: Vietnam veterans share their stories." Left to right, 4th Infantry soldier, graves and registration personnel, American adviser in '65, South VN naval officer, and ARVN officer.
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