Lions Led By Donkeys Podcast Episode 323 -Doug Hegdahl, The Incredibly Stupid One
Aug 4, 2024
Doug Hegdahl, a former POW who turned the art of feigning ignorance into a survival tactic during the Vietnam War, shares his extraordinary story. He discusses how pretending to be mentally challenged led to one of the North Vietnamese army's biggest blunders. From humorous anecdotes about his captivity to the absurdity of military life, Doug illustrates resilience in dire circumstances. The conversation blends history, war insights, and unexpected humor, offering a unique perspective on survival and camaraderie amidst chaos.
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Hat-Loss Led To Capture
- Douglas Brent Hegdahl joined the Navy wanting to go to Australia but was assigned to USS Canberra near San Diego.
- He later fell overboard while retrieving his hat and was picked up by Vietnamese fishermen.
Playing The Fool As Survival
- After capture Hegdahl pretended to be an uneducated, simple farm boy to avoid harsh interrogation.
- Guards nicknamed him "the Incredibly Stupid One" and treated him like a harmless camp mascot.
Harmless Image Became Tactical Cover
- Hegdahl used his perceived harmlessness to gain privileges like sweeping and extra food.
- He covertly redistributed supplies to other POWs and undermined guard operations.