Veterans's Day Presentation 2011 new

Slide 1: 

Lonely and Weary Soldier Sitting lonely in a premature grave, a dusty and dirty soldier wonders about his fate. How could killing others be part of being brave? How will he face his master on his judgment day? The death, the suffering, the cries of pain, and sorrow, are these things the way to peace? As the soldier leaves the safety of his place a moment of silence fills his head. The passages of the Bible dance through his thoughts. He sees David, and others fighting off the lord’s foes. Suddenly he can no longer feel, hear touch, or see his place. A great peace enters his heart and he knows that heaven is near. His faith keeps the things close to his heart dear. He remembers his Lord’s struggle in the desert and is determine to carry on. As the soldier’s fond memories of home, friends, family, fade, he resumes his position The loyal, brave, and fearless soldier Jesse Sweeney Gonzalez LTC, MSC, USAR, Retired

Slide 2: 

What is a soldier? During the Viet Nam era Hollywood gave us two images. One seen as a hero the other a trouble vet. What messages did they give a soldier? How see ourselves ….

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In 1968 John Wayne gave an answer to why troops were in South Viet Nam. The only positive view ever to be presented by Hollywood during the Viet Nam War.

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No one knew at the time what a vet would face upon his return from the war. The Movie “Billy Jack” 1971, like Rambo first blood 1982, showed us the intolerance for soldiers with Indian heritage might expect.

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So what keeps you sane as a soldier? Pride Camaraderie Leadership So how does the Army build these characteristics in troops? Well LTC Custer sums it up best.

Slide 6: 

LTC Hal Moore during Viet Nam used his leadership along with pride and camaraderie to motivate his troops.

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Without leadership you have little discipline and life long guilt.

Slide 9: 

A War without Honor No Fan fare for the troops Not even a band We returned from Viet Nam Wondering who I am Scarred by a war while serving Uncle Sam We were not heroes Simple soldiers at best We remember the battles and their scorn But without victory no one toots a horn Millions were spent to achieve a win But only pennies our left to help the men The refugees of Nam came here to stay They wade in success and have political say As we vets rot and die in alleys and in the VA As time passes so do we We gave in the name of honor and liberty To Keep South Viet Nam democratic and free Our lives and our honor were the fee Jesse Sweeney Gonzalez LTC, MSC, USAR, Retired