Preserving The Oral HistorIES of Combat Veterans

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Ron Mastin

Vietnam | 11th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron

The POW's were moved around the countryside and, eventually, back to the Hanoi Hilton. They knew something was up when they were allowed to mingle and were allowed to try on new clothes. Then the camp commander read aloud the Paris Peace Accords, but the reaction was subdued. Finally, one group was suited up and marched out of the prison. (7:01)
Ron Rutowski

Vietnam | 2nd Battalion, 60th Infantry, 9th Division

Ron Rutowski remembers the circumstances that led to his enlistment and how quickly the transition was for them once they landed in Vietnam. (4:56)
After leaving the Bien Hoa Air Force Base, Ron Rutowski spent time building up the Bear Cat base camp. Here, he experienced the horrors of the Viet Cong firsthand. (5:33)
During firefights in Vietnam, there are always challenges that Rutowski and his unit always had to overcome. During one particular encounter, they had to worry about their position being compromised as they crouched in the woods hoping to stay hidden. (4:11)
As the war went on, Ron Rutowski felt the culture and morale of Vietnam change for the Vietnamese and for the Americans. In an effort to create an outlet of peace for Viet Cong defectors, they began a pamphlet program to let them know how to effectively surrender should they want to. (7:07)
During a firefight, Ron Rutowski was put in a tough spot after his M16 jammed. Fortunately, he had air support that helped him remain safe from VC fire. (9:07)
While stationed at base camp, Ron Rutowski and his unit constantly had VC trying to infiltrate their camp. During one of these, he took flak from a Claymore and had to go to the hospital to get his wounds treated. (5:42)
Ron Rutowski tells of the medals that he and his unit received for their time in Vietnam and what it was like to transition back to American life. (4:48)
Ron Rutowski remembers some humorous events that happened in Vietnam as he was trying to pass the time. (4:48)
For Ron Rutowski, remembering his fallen friends is one of the hardest parts about remembering his time in war. The guilt of losing fellow soldiers never leaves you. (7:10)