American Scandal The Massacre at My Lai | Hunting Down Calley | 3
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Aug 26, 2025 A soldier breaks the silence about the My Lai massacre, triggering a quest for justice that exposes military attempts to bury the truth. Investigative journalist Seymour Hersh grapples with accountability as he hunts down Lieutenant William Calley, the man accused of leading the massacre. Shocking evidence surfaces, including revealing photographs and soldier testimonies that spark national outrage. The narrative dives deep into the moral complexities of war, exploring betrayal, isolation, and the struggle for truth in the aftermath of atrocity.
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Soldier's Mess Tent Confession Sparks Concern
- Private Charles "Butch" Groover recounted seeing villagers, including children, lined up and executed at My Lai.
- His vivid description spurred Ron Ridenhour to investigate further after hearing the story in the mess tent.
Quiet Persistence Triggered Official Inquiry
- Ron Ridenhour methodically collected witness accounts and wrote a five-page letter to top U.S. officials exposing My Lai.
- His persistent reporting forced an Army Inspector General inquiry after initial inaction from recipients.
Consistent Eyewitnesses Focused The Investigation
- The Inspector General's investigation traced multiple consistent testimonies back to Lieutenant William Calley.
- Testimony and admissions converted an internal review into a Criminal Investigation Division probe.
