The Iowa Mercury and The Seven Times broadcast a special episode of “Nik and Doug’s America” today as we interviewed my sister, Jane Nguyen, who just marked the 50th anniversary of her arrival in the United States during the Fall of Saigon in 1975.
OK I am listening as I drive east across Iowa. Jane mentioned LeAnn Thieman who I think grew up on a farm west of Cedar Rapids, maybe Vinton. Jane stating that she smelled like garlic upon arrival, made me wondered if baby Doug smelled like Life cereal or oatmeal when he was gifted to their parents. After my stop I will resume. Tx Jane,Nik and Doug. Radio selections across Iowa can be limited; Substack audio provides a thoughtful journey.
The Vietnam War is very close to me. My older brother's name is etched on The Wall, and his death was devastating for my family. It's taken years to come to terms with the loss and its consequences, and that event is a "ghost" that will linger until I die.
I lived for about five years in Marshalltown, home of Darwin Judge, who was one of the last two U.S casualties as the embassy was being evacuated in 1973. He is commemorated there with a park and the memories of family and friends who knew him.
OK I am listening as I drive east across Iowa. Jane mentioned LeAnn Thieman who I think grew up on a farm west of Cedar Rapids, maybe Vinton. Jane stating that she smelled like garlic upon arrival, made me wondered if baby Doug smelled like Life cereal or oatmeal when he was gifted to their parents. After my stop I will resume. Tx Jane,Nik and Doug. Radio selections across Iowa can be limited; Substack audio provides a thoughtful journey.
The Vietnam War is very close to me. My older brother's name is etched on The Wall, and his death was devastating for my family. It's taken years to come to terms with the loss and its consequences, and that event is a "ghost" that will linger until I die.
I lived for about five years in Marshalltown, home of Darwin Judge, who was one of the last two U.S casualties as the embassy was being evacuated in 1973. He is commemorated there with a park and the memories of family and friends who knew him.