hmTv at HMTC Podcasts Ep 378: The Fog of War and Humanity with Richard Acritelli and guest Joe Cognitore P2 on hmTv
Ep. 378 — The Fog of War and Humanity: Sgt. Joseph A. Cognitore (Part 2)
In Part 2 of this conversation, host Richard Acritelli continues his discussion with Vietnam veteran Sgt. Joseph Cognitore — beginning with Joe’s arrival in South Vietnam and his abrupt initiation into the realities of combat life.
Joe describes landing at Cam Ranh Bay, being shipped to the Central Highlands, and realizing — almost instantly — that everything familiar was gone. From helicopter insertions and the shock of jungle warfare, to digging foxholes at night, setting trip flares, and learning when “book training” suddenly meant survival, Joe offers an honest look at how quickly a young soldier had to grow up.
He also speaks candidly about tunnels, close calls, the strain on younger soldiers, artillery support, and the mental burdens carried long after the war — including the quiet resilience required to lead others through fear.
Part history, part testimony, and deeply human — this episode reminds us that behind every headline is a person trying to endure, protect others, and somehow come home.