Don - Vietnam war Armoured Cavalry Platoon Leader (143)

Oct 9, 2020

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This is the first of two episodes we have following Don Snedeker’s experiences through the Cold War. In this episode, we hear about his time in Vietnam and the book he has written entitled "The Blackhorse in Vietnam: The 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in Vietnam and Cambodia, 1966–1972”.

Don was born in Brooklyn New York but followed his Father’s postings around the globe as an ‘Army brat’. Don was commissioned into the Armour branch of the US Army in February 1969 and by December he had been posted to Vietnam initially assigned to the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (Blackhorse) but later joining the 1st Armoured Cavalry Regiment (Blackhawks) serving as an armoured cavalry platoon leader and as a Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol platoon leader. He was awarded a Bronze Star with ‘V’ for Valour, a Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantryman’s Badge.

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Co-host James conducts our chat and I am delighted to welcome Don Snedeker to our Cold War conversation…

There is further information and a book giveaway in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode143/

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0:00 Introduction and historical context

1:29 Don Snedeker's early life, military career, and family history

7:35 Reflection on preparedness for war and the role of armored cavalry in Vietnam

15:48 Long range reconnaissance missions and jungle warfare

25:20 Tactics used in combat and earning military honors

27:19 Writing the book "The Black Horse in Vietnam" and its impact

35:06 Experience returning home from Vietnam and personal memories

39:38 Visiting Vietnam post-war and personal reflections

43:57 Unique characteristics and advantages of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in Vietnam

55:17 End of interview and closing remarks by Ian Sanders

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