The Narrators
Robert Munson
Robert Munson discusses his childhood moving around the United States with his military family. He then talks about his path to Fort Belvoir in Virginia and his experience as a combat engineer. He then speaks about his time in Vietnam, beginning with his chaotic introduction to the war in Saigon and Cam Ranh Bay. He goes on to talk about his experiences during the Tet Offensive, and how he earned his Purple Heart. After this, he discusses his experiences in the latter half of his tour, featuring interactions with Vietnamese villagers, his commanding officers and Marines in Hué. After Vietnam, Munson expands on his transition back into civilian life and his career and family relationships. At the end of the interview he discusses his move to the Upper Valley, his current views on the war, and his interactions with younger veterans. You can listen to Robert Munson's interview here.
Anthony Thompson
Tony Thompson Dartmouth class of 1964, enlisted as a Radioman in 1963 taking a hiatus from college at the recommendation of his dean. He went to Vietnam during the advisory period in 1964. The first 6 months he spent rotating in and out of Aloui and Tabat in the A Shau valley. The latter half of his deployment he was attached to the decorated ARVN 1st regiment at the DMZ and saw their destruction in March of 1965. He earned bronze star and Vietnam cross of gallantry. His potential for PTSD from watching executions of civilians is discussed. Tony returned to Dartmouth 3 months later and had a poor experience with the anti-war sentiment. The aggressive anti-war environment made him move off campus to finish his degree. He left the U.S. for the less hostile environment of Australia. Returned to Vermont in the 90’s. Tony elaborates on his geopolitical sentiment and the direction of contemporary American society. You can listen to Tony Thompson's interview here.
