

143: Make the World Better. Even Just a Little Bit. Lessons from "A Vietnam Diary" from Peter Nash Swisher.
Sep 19, 2018
Peter Nash Swisher, an author known for his insights on Vietnam, shares profound reflections from his work, "A Vietnam Diary." He discusses the painful journey from innocence to combat and contrasts the stark realities of war with media portrayals. Swisher highlights the emotional complexities of personal loss, including his two sons fighting on opposite sides. The conversation also delves into the evolution of media consumption and its impact on societal awareness, emphasizing the importance of community, resilience, and leadership in overcoming challenges.
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Naming Vehicles for Morale
- Soldiers named their vehicles with distinctive nicknames like 'Big Zev' and 'war pig.'
- Naming vehicles adds creativity and a sense of control amid war's chaos.
Brotherhood Amidst War's Hell
- A soldier risked his life to rescue a wounded friend under fire.
- The friend died but said he knew his comrade would come, showing true brotherhood.
Civilian Detachment from War
- Contemporary wars often don't impact the daily lives of most civilians.
- This detachment causes many to ignore or forget about the ongoing conflicts.