Naneek: Vietnam Combat Veteran's Return
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- Опубліковано 14 січ 2016
- Naneek is an award-winning short documentary (2015) that captures the journey of Tim "Naneek" Keenan as he meets with former enemies, revisits the battleground of Dak To, and confronts a past he’s been unable to overcome. He feared his return to Vietnam for over 40 years. Until Now.
Edit: Thank you all so much. Now over 500k+ views. Beyond grateful you've stopped to watch the film - Naneek.
Winner of Audience Award for Best Documentary Short at the Traverse City Film Festival.
Winner of Honorable Mention at Woodstock Film Festival.
Featured in festivals all across the US into Mexico.
For more information about our film, please contact: naneekfilm@gmail.com - Фільми й анімація
Welcome home.
first
Yes, Absolutely,
Welcome Home !
Tim; great piece on the Nam. On 11-17-67, I was up just south of the DMZ at an outpost called Con Thien , w/ the 1st marine regiment. Your story moved me to tears. Welcome home, my brother ! SGT Jim Griffin, USMC.
@@jimgriffin8651 Hi JIm. Thanks for the welcome home. I say the same to you. And I say what price glory. That was a difficult time. I hope you are ok. that was such a tryng time in our lives. Losing brothers is hard to explain to people. I always remember. And I always feel grateful. And Jim, you had to pick the worst possible time to be there didn't you. Ha. Peace brother.
bullshit war criminals
As a young Vietnamese, I find this to be a very wonderful reportage. I am very happy because I am the first generation in my family to not have to go through a war, enjoy peace and comfort.
Thanks for watching Bui. Peace in Vietnam. I wish our country would end involvement in war everywhere. 800 bases in 85 different countries.
@@timkeenan1385 my respect!
Guess what ? I love you and even me not being there I am sorry
Hugs! May Peace and Love be the leaders
Be thankful for đồng chí, repay them with success and prosperity.
when the old vietnamese guy hugged him and then saluted my eyes started to get watery... what a moment of pure respect.
Dante Hiesi i too
that is the true! I just fkn cried!! Pure respect
I fuckin' lost it man hahaha.
yup. in tears
Well ya, he could have been South Viet, it wasn't US vs Viet, it was a bunch of countries helping South Vietnam as North Vietnam made a deal with the Soviets as they have been trying to take back the country since China invaded so very long ago. Vietnam was a jungle Korea.
I was there 1967-1968 as well as a medic. I also returned to Vietnam in 2006, 2008, and 2011. It was the most healing thing I have ever done. I still have my demons but they don’t control me as much as they did.
Same here Gary. I still think about that war every single day, but feel way better after my journey back. The Vietnamese people brought a smile to my face.
Thanks for your service Gary 🙏 hope you can enjoy a long peaceful life.
Welcome home you guys and thank for your service my friends.
I hope one day I can return to Fallujah and have the same experience
Bless your heart Sir....WELCOME HOME SOLDIER...WE HAVE NO IDEA....WE NEVER WILL !!!
Not from the US, but New Zealand troops did fight in Vietnam along side the US and this video was just super super impactful and beautiful to see the once enemies come together. I just know it changed there life's and I wish that in the future this could be realized for more veterans to find peace on both sides. Thank you for this beautiful documentary.
I've never heard this ? I'm an avid military follower and well I'm only 25 ,I've never knew this
Australia and South Korea sent some guys. Apparently the NVA and VC were terrified of South Korean troops.
@@alexs5744 mày hút cỏ mỹ à sao mà ngu thế. Lũ lính hàn chạy nhanh hơn chó. Chỉ thua lũ vnch 3/ đu càng sang mỹ ăn trợ cấp 1 chút thôi😆
@@ThaiNguyen-rz7qe I hope China invades you.
@@alexs5744 1 đứa thất bại của xã hội. Đu càng sang mỹ. Các bạn mỹ để ý bên cali rât nhiều đứa vnch sang đấy ăn xin. ăn cắp .ăn trợ cấp bằng tiền thuế của các bạn l. Các bạn mỹ trắng hãy tẩy chay lũ vô gia cư hèn nhát này đi
That salute that little old man gave before leaving. Christ. Made me tear up.
Imagine being there. I damn near lost it (producer here). Had to walk away.
some fat tears trying to hold it in haha
It's a sign of respect between two brothers in arms.
It sad that in the U.S. our young people don't have the same respect for our veteran anymore. All service men and women deserve our respect regardless.
@@po350that's BS. The youth respect the veterans in this country. It's our government who doesn't respect them. They only use them.
I would never go back to that hell hole, there is nothing there but bad memories for me. I lived with my PTSD for 48 years and I will die with it and all my bad memories. I give the thumbs up for those who do go back but I can't see myself going back.
Riven. We understand completely. Hopefully you were able to watch our documentary, though. Seeing another combat veteran go back who had the same thoughts as yourself, same struggle with PTSD, until his trip a few years ago.
Alan, when young men are sent off to a place with no choice in the matter, though - and are left with mental trauma for almost 5 decades as Riven himself just spoke of - being honest about PTSD is admirable. Please respect that. Peace.
Alan do you know who else fought there what other countries, if you don't know you should learn and do you know why we fought there and for what reasons if you don't know learn.
Alan Bull why don't you shut the fuck up
Riven wood Thank you for your service and I'm truly sorry for all you've gone through for us. And for the ghost you still carry with you and for what you've lost. To me it will never be forgotten !
My father was drafted in 64 at age 19....he passed away in 08. I would have loved to have taken this trip with him.
I don't know why it was among the youtube recommendations, but I'm glad I saw this wonderful video
We're glad that it recommended it too, Red! Much appreciated.
Thanks for watching my story. Peace.
Same here. I was hesitant to click on but I'm glad I did.
I was thinking exactly the same. And who cut these onions on my desk??
I hope you all find peace. God bless.
My uncle was killed there in 1971, like many others he was drafted and went willingly. My dad had already volunteered in 66' and was in the Air Force stationed in Japan at the time. He had to go ID my uncle and escort his body home. For every man that made it back, welcome home.
first.
@@jacockistitsworth9392 Bruh.
@@truereaper4572 Bruh. Bruh.
I'm deeply sorry to hear of your uncle. I'm grateful and wishing that didn't happen and we all can be friends.
TY I made it back and I was there in 71 also. It was a horrible year. The transport planes were coming in empty and leaving full with far too many heroine addicted GIs. It was cutback time and it was every man for himself. The war was lost per se and the pullout was unorganized and reeking of cheap Washington politics. God Bless your uncle. He is resting in a better place.
Man, seeing a man who lost close friends to war and massacre say he's happy to forgive is something is somethign i didn't expect to see today.
Amen
It takes incredible strenght of character to be able to say and live that. To forgive a country whose soldiers masacred your entire town. Time is a powerful tool when used correctly.
a great lesson to us all. and a great gesture also from those who came back to Viet Nam to make friends with those they were at war with, deepest respect for them all.
@@psmith9789 …..
@@psmith9789 it happened on both side the NVA and VC also massacred innocent people.
This is really a Masterpiece of a documentary.
Wow, thank you so much, Thomas. Left a career to make it (filmmaker here) - I appreciate your kind words.
An old US soldier can use chopstick as well as a Vietnamese!
Really yes dude
Salute from tijuana brooo
As a Veteran myself I shed a tear watching this video. I cannot imagine how tough it must have been for them to go back, let alone sit with those who at one time were trying to take their lives. I salute all of you!
You're a good man, Tim.
I'm glad you found peace.
As a Packer diehard, made the comment even better. Much appreciated, my friend. Peace always - Tim
My late father Sgt. Dan Edward O'Neall served in the Army. Spoke little about Viet Nam. He suffered with the effects of Agent Orange and so do I. The one thing he taught was to always question our Gov whenever there is a military operation any where in the world. My father past 08/21/2002 3 weeks after my youngest son was born. He seen my son for the 1st time and I swear to GOD he past away a few minutes later. Great video.
Hazem O'Neall
I bet he loved to see your boy. Good job man.
RIP Sgt. Dan Edward O’Neall
May the light of our Lord shine upon your father and give him peace
NOBBERT I wouldn’t wish any pain on the families of those individuals
NOBBERT why would you wish that, you just then in return become them and the evil you despised of them
I'm sorry for what you and your dad have been going through. how i wish nobody had to go through that.
This is a man of compassion and empathy I can’t imagine how healing this was for him and the Vietnamese people are so kind and forgiving it made this old man cry
"You can measure the character of a nation by how they treat their soldiers after a lost war." Great documentary. Enjoyed every second. Greetings from Germany.
Well, the US vet seemed to be in much better shape than the former NVA soldiers.
@@generalkayoss7347 True, but consider the multiple wars each had fought through. Thuat at the end had up to 7 gunshot wounds and he continued to fight for his country.
@@naneekfilm1512 I didn't mean that as an insult. I'm a very patriotic American but even I respect how hard the North Vietnamese fought.
@@generalkayoss7347 Certainly didn't take it as such, GK. The NVA were patriots to their own country. Being up close to these gentleman, the visible toll (partially due to the wild amount of cigarettes they smoked, ha) was immediate. Peace.
USA - send even a Dude - called LAURI TÖRNI alias Larry Thorne to Vietnam ! He fougt in three ( 3 ) Wars - born 1919 - and Died in Vietnam ! Remains were found by a Finnish Send Team - 30 Years later - buried at ARLINGTON Washington !
I returned to Vietnam with my wife two years ago. It was a good healing trip. I was able to go to where I was stationed and patrolled back in 68' on the PBR. It's changed a lot for the better. Vietnamese people were very friendly. At first I was very nervous, but after we got there, that all went away. It's still a communist country and there's signs for that. We spent two weeks over there. It was worth it.
Love hearing this, Gary. Tim had much the same experience. Combat in 67'-68'. His first day was stressful to say the least. But, after our Buddhist Temple stop and seeing the people treat him well early on, he began to slowly enjoy the country. After two weeks, he too was so glad to make that journey.
I'm so happy to hear that. The Vietnamese are indeed very friendly people and don't hold grudges, apart from a very few. I've been living in Saigon for 5 years now and have interviewed numerous NVA vets. They generally don't want to talk about the war but once you befriend them, many of them open up and reflect on their wartime experiences. My wife's uncle told me he respected the Americans as soldiers but never held them personally responsible for the war, as he understood they'd gotten their orders from the u.s. government. He suffers from PTSD as do most of his fellow brothers in arms.
Im from the PI, but hear VN countryside is just the most beautiful.. did you feel that way then as well as now?
Who the hell still care we are communist or capitalist? We are happy with our life. That is enough. By the way, i am very happy to hear that you are healing.
@@VNExperience Hi, will you write down and publish the NVA soldiers experiences? I only know the GI side of the war by books and interviews and long to know for a long time how the ordinary Vietnamese NVA or vietcong man or woman experienced the war. Greetz!
This deserves more views. This was one powerful video!
Amen to that, Antond131. Thank you for such a kind comment.
Truly moving!!
Thank you for all Vietnam Vets , tears in my Eyes . God bless America !!!
They killed babys and women, and many US soldiers died, the ones that made it never got took care of by the system. It was the first media coverage war, do your studies before raising flags. Nobody won this war! although the North Vietnamese soldiers killed more US soldiers, US soldiers killed, raped, tortured children babys mothers. Go look up “winter soldiers “ why do you guys think the veterans feel bad… after all those years they can’t get let go of the past… they can’t wash the blood from their hands 🩸👋
Crazy to think how at 20 years old he was drafted.... I’m 20 now & I have so much respect for our veterans GOD BLESS!! ❤️
You men lived in the dark in Vietnam and died in the light in america , we treated you like dirt, disrespected you and second classed you , we should’ve have diverted all of that anger and frustration towards the real enemies, our crooked politicians. my grand father served in Vietnam and was disgusted how he was treated when he returned home .
and that says it all for me.
Why do ameicans brag with thier nationalism and patriotism, only to disrepect them once they got back. Trick
@@naimma9356 That's not an American thing, that is a world thing lol. The only times countries respect their service men and women is for propagandaed political gain.
Microtransaction yeah, it is. You didn't understand.
@@desertedgoat17 It is American thing. In recent history, out of all 195 countries of the world,, how many have invaded other countries? US is involved in pretty much every war, with full-blown small or large scale invasion or proxy war. The US is the only country in the world where soldiers are glorified and seen as heroes for serving in wars of aggression.
I've Returned three times,1998-2002-2006. Served with the 282nd Assault Helicopter Company @ Marble Mountain Airfield Dec 1970-71. I was a Crew Chief on Huey Gunships UH-1C. I never imagined I would have returned, I read a couple of books the first was Li Lay Hayslip's " When Heaven and Earth Changed Places. Oliver Stone made the movie " Heaven and Earth with Tommy Lee Jones. She grew up in the DaNang area, later on, she started a Non-Profit " East Meets West Foundation " in DaNang. The first trip I started in Hanoi after a few days I got on a flight for DaNang spent 2+ weeks there exploring the work of East Meets West does. On Christmas Eve I played Santa Claus for an Orphanage " The Village of Hope " On my other 2 trips I would always go back in December and do my Santa gig.
After returning home from my 1st trip the Shit hit the fan my PTSD raised its ugly head I've been doing PTSD therapy since early 1999.
" Welcome Home Tim "
Cheers from San Francisco.
John Dubpernell
John Dubpernell thank you for sharing your story! Greetings from Finland.
Thank you soo much much love from Fort bragg North Carolina echo company 282 Assault helicopter Battalion Pfc Hernandez
John Dubpernell welcome home, sir!
So you were mowing people left and right ?
John, thank you for sharing your story. I have heard other interviews from Vietnam Vet's here on UA-cam about Huey pilots, and the respect and how they counted on you. Thank you for your service and sacrifice for our country. Welcome home. God Bless.
I'm glad this beautiful man found peace over 40 years later.
I applaud Tim for his colossal courage and goodness. His kind face and gestures reveal a very strong, compassionate, and forgiving man. That his son joined him on this very special, difficult journey speaks volumes, too. I am very moved.
Thank you for this, Marcel.
hope every vietnam vet found his peace 🇺🇸 , no matter what happend in his life. war is hell. peace for the people of vietnam too. Frank a 🇩🇪 guy.
This was an absolutely awesomely done documentary!! It not only showed his return to Vietnam, his making peace with previous enemies and telling some great and emotional stories, but also speaks about the reconciliation of him and his son. I didn't search for this, yet UA-cam knows I always watch war docs. I have to say this is one of the best docs about an individual who served our country in any war. Great job and God bless you!!
Wow, thanks, Rob - enjoy seeing messages like this. No doubt, we poured everything into this documentary. Tim and his son reconnecting the way they did was certainly amazing to see unfold. Thanks for the message, man!
This. This is why I love humans. The ability to forgive and let times that passed, times that passed. It is amazing, truly. Thank you for sharing your experience.
What an emotional Video..As a German Soldier who fought in Afghanistan, i can understand him a little bit and what it takes to go back to the land where he kiilled and maybe almost got killed..
Where he saw people dying and comrades and friends dying, where he saw people fighting unnecessary..
Such Memories never fade out of our brains.
Maybe one day i can go back to afghanistan and make peace with the land, the people, the taliban.
This guy have all of my respect.
Thanks for your service.
I hope your soul will heal in time.
If you can not communicate it, you start to fight.
But this is not a solution. It causes only more problems.
There is always a solution without war.
Please talk to each other.
Greetings from Germany.
You are a hero!
Don't go back there. They are not like the Vietnamese.
Dave here
that is a tottally different thing Afghanistan and Vietnam... Taliban are pieces of pure shit.
@@JBS2018 We need to get the hell out of there its been our longest war ever even Russia said fuck it.
Same here from Canada , spent 15 monts of my life over there and i hope one day this place is in peace
I hope Afghanistan finds peace. Of all places on earth that deserves peace it’s definitely Afghanistan. They been attacked by empires since Persia all the way to now. Those people have seen endless warfare. No matter the result of this war, whoever wins I hope they find peace
As a Veteran this is incredible. Thank you for showing this.....
Thank YOU so much, Jay. Made the film for you, and veterans like you. Forever grateful.
It really is.
Thank you for your service. Did you ever have an Amiga? :-)
Disliking it for lack of proof.
@@armandpotgieter9911 Everybody is veteran now
How this has only came up in my recommendations today is mad much respect from Scotland 🏴 🇬🇧
Slainte!
i just saw it today. but i'm glad we get to see it.
Amazing. My father was in Special forces in 68 and 69. He wanted me to go back with him, but sadly that wasn't able to happen. I went to Vietnam for the fist time in 2018 and went to where he fought for him. i wish he could have lived to have closure in that stupid war. I know he is watching and hopefully he has found peace. My heart goes out to both sides whos lives were turned upside down over nothing. Thank you for making this video Much love.
I live in Vietnam now as a teacher and I've never met greater people in my life. I love this country so much and am honored to be accepted as brother. Peace.
☮
wonderful people, the Vietnamese.
Mr. Keenan, I am truly honored by and totally flabbergasted that you replied to my post. Once again, thank you for your service and welcome home. I was 5, 6 and 7 years old during the height of American involvement in the Vietnam War. When I grew older I ended up meeting several Vietnam veterans. I am a history buff, especially military history. For some reason these men understood that I was just a younger person interested in what actually happened during the war and their personal experiences in the war. They were kind enough to give me their own oral histories of the war. I learned a lot about the war and will always be grateful to the men who shared their knowledge and experiences with me. Good luck and God bless all of our combat veterans from WW 2 all the way up to the combat veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan.
If you are a reader, I will send you a copy of my book, The Good HIke. It is about my thru hike of the Appachian Trail while suffering with PTSD. Completed my hike at age 63.
Some little Girls with stupid Make-Up Tutorials got millions of views while this incredible historic video just got 100k , that cant be ! :o
I wish this comment was on a billboard. Appreciated reading this today, DutyofCall. Peace - Naneek
Let’s all spread this video!
There aint no fucking justice anymore in this world. Salute to all warriors past and present. A comrade is a comrade
The problem on UA-cam nowadays there is too much uneducated rubbish.
This video deserves more views 🙏
Ikr... This reality seems unreal.
This combat veteran has a heart of gold. Noble and humble showed his respect and forgiveness to his former enemy and his people.
This is pretty much the story behind any war. No monsters on either side. Just regular men trying to survive so they can go back home. Really beautiful film.
Well I mean we’ve been fighting extremist terrorist the last twenty years idk where you been for that but it’s hard to defend them ahah
@@brandenray9587 We've been occupying their country for the last 20 years. You think the kids that grow up into adults during those years are going to look fondly at the U.S.? Especially with the propaganda they're fed.
Degenerate Nerd the kids are thankful that we are there attempting to fight off the terrorist. The only ones who aren’t are ones being told they will be killed for supporting Americans. They’re scared what will happen once we leave.
@@brandenray9587 Oh, I didn't know it was that black and white over there, bud. Have you passed this information along to our government by any chance? Seems like they could use it.
Degenerate Nerd I did 4 tours over there in special warfare. I explained it black and white because you seem to be pretty black in white with your logic, bud. Anyways. All the best.
My grandpa and his cousin served in Vietnam, my grandpa made it back. His cousin didn’t. My grandpa never really spoke much about it. But I can tell he still carries it with him everyday.
metalmulisha kfx Many do. It’s just the way it is. At least getting an understanding of the “why” is a start. Hopefully conversations happen for you both. Peace.
Well when you see your buddies dead against a tree with their penis' cut off and stuffed into their mouths by some VC scumbag that will mess you up. Buddy says that is actually the worst part, knowing your buddies died but those scumbags get to live their lives, he just hopes they have nightmares worse than him for doing that kind of stuff.
@@desertedgoat17 you miss the point of this documentary?
I'm very sorry to hear about your dad and his cousin. i hope one day soon your dad can somehow forget that past and be happy once again.
ua-cam.com/video/1sKnOo3bzR8/v-deo.html
What an awesome story. Thank you for sharing. My Uncle Lee served in Vietnam with the 1st Infantry Division. Like most or all Veterans he suffers from PTSD. He has so much sadness. Last year doctors discovered a tumor in his head, caused from agent orange. Before they took him back for surgery he was afraid of dying because of the fact that God wouldn’t forgive him for the things he had done in Vietnam. It makes me very sad for him that he thinks he won’t make it into heaven because of what he thought he was doing was right.
Michael Firth Wow, what a sad yet so common story amongst Vietnam combat vets. We’ve been fortunate to play this for many veterans around the US. Most don’t talk about their time at war, understandably. Others cry letting go in some way. If you have a close relationship to him, Michael, please watch this with him. At the very least, being present & providing some sense of happiness around him is essential. Thanks for the message. Peace - Naneek
God that’s heartbreaking.
Thank you for your kind words sir. I will definitely show this to him.
After watching this, I have to wonder if anyone can truly appreciate peace unless they've been in war. I don't think they can... I wish I could like this video twice!
As a relative of a Vietnam soldier, I would also like to say I’m sorry for all that happend back then, that it should not have happened. Sending my love and well wishes.
Thanks for coming back to Vietnam and put this great video together. I am a Vietnamese refugee back in 1980, and served in the U.S. Navy as aviation support on board the aircraft carrier John F. Kennedy. Thank you so much for your video, this put tears in my eyes. I also a Desert Shield/Desert Storm Veteran and I can put everything in a different perspective with the Iraq people in the 2003 invasion. I take my hat off for you, Nakeek. Vietnam is a beautiful country, you have to go there and appreciate the beautiful country that Nakeedk and his friends went there for a purpose of the higher up politicians. They did not have a choice, they were soldiers and only took orders form their superior. Respectfully, TNB U.S. Navy Veteran
Such a cool note, Tony. Passed along to Naneek. Cheers!
It's so strange to hear someone say their worst time was 1967. I was a young kid then and those were the most magical years of my life. Vietnam was on the news but we tuned it out and it became like a distant movie in our lives. War was my favorite childhood game - and then in 1970 my best friend's brother was killed in Vietnam and everything in his life changed - and my life too by a distant event.
happy veteran of the vietnam war, hope you have a good health and love you forever
This makes me realize we need peace schools where instructors like him teach young men and women how to fight anger and guilt 🕊
Aurélien Regat-Barrel that'd be a dream! Naneek has spoken to many youth, most veterans and festivals.
so true, and sadly enough, some can still be reluctant to understand and learn to love
Welcome home brother.
Thank you for saying their names.
When you say their name you honor their life and their memory.
I wish my father had had a chance to do this. Army Med Evac pilot out of Pleiku during 67-68. He passed away post war at the age of 50 from alcoholism. He never got the help he needed unfortunately. All the decorations and medals on my office wall remind me every day of what he went through.
Well done sir. My dad loved the country and the people of Vietnam.
He was LTC William N. Insley, US Army, 273rd Medical Detachment, Pleiku Vietnam.
Thank you Matt. My condolences on the passing of your dad. Very sad. War never leaves us.
I'm from the UK, and went to Vietnam a few years ago, when my brother married a Vietnamese woman he'd met in university. I got to get a feel for the place and people, how welcoming and respectful and extremely hard-working they are, and the hard edge that runs underneath that. I also know how important family is to them, especially children and parents, so hearing about My Lai, where 182 women and 173 children were killed without reason or resistance... I can't even begin to imagine what that would mean to the serving NVA soldiers at the time. No wonder they kept fighting despite the odds. That this guy is now capable of welcoming a US soldier into his home and parting as friends is pretty remarkable, and says a lot about the human spirit.
It seems Vietnam was the US's moment of madness, surrendering its ideals as a country and becoming the bad guy. However, I also read about Hugh Thompson, who was flying over the massacre, worked out what was going on and landed between the American soldiers and the last few fleeing villagers and threatened to open fire unless they backed off. He then flew many survivors to medical centres. I think that takes a kind of courage that almost no one has: to put your principles above your allegiance and protect the innocent even from your own side, even when doing so means you too could be killed. That is the kind of man you can be proud of.
thank you for your words. You are right on all counts. Peace.
@@timkeenan1385 Thank you for spreading peace!
There was reason for the massacre from a Charly compony prospective.
@@bigd3512 before Vietnam the dutch fought in indonesia under leadership of captain Westerling and we were accused of the same war crimes after the conflict Westerling left the dutch army and was recruited bij the CIA to write a textbook on counter guerrilla jungle warfare wich became the textbook for the American aproach in Vietnam
There is a book about Captain Westerling called "de eenling" but as far as I know its onely published in dutch
Considering the numerous massacres of their own people perpetrated by the Viet Cong and PAVN (NVA) (as one example, 5000 civilians methodically slaughtered from prepared kill lists at Hue), it's more likely that the average NVA just fought on because he was ordered to. One is reminded of the 3 Stooges: North Vietnamese communist leadership vowed to fight to the last drop of someone else's blood.
To break bread and share a beer with former enemies has to be a powerful moment
something I never thought I would do.
@@timkeenan1385 Im sure youre glad you did. I have a lot of respect for you Tim, returning to a former combat zone, former enemies who are now nothing short of friends. With that initial reluctance we all understand, but only few of us feel. Quite possibly a bigger step than stepping off that aeroplane all those years ago. Hope youre doing well.
I think It exactly a peaceful meal!
Wow great movie showed it to my grandfather who's a Vietnam veteran and he loved it he cried when I said thank you
So glad you were able to do that with your grandfather, Ben. What an awesome comment to see tonight!
ua-cam.com/video/1sKnOo3bzR8/v-deo.html
I can’t believe there isn’t a movie about Dak To yet.
i can imagine how difficult it would be to write the script for this. I can only imagine the film main point should focus on the soldiers on all sides just trying to survive that madness and one day come together to hug and love as friends. Not a film to blame or to deepen the wound.
I'm so happy I saw this! With my 22 years of age I can never imagine what they went through but I am glad that both sides went on and are conecting on such a deep level! Truly beautiful!!!
Wonderful film! Very moved by the loving relationship between father and son. I was very moved by Mr. Keenan's humanity and tenderness that he showed to his former adversary as well as Mr. Thuat's grace to Mr. Keenan. I served in the Persian Gulf War in 90-91 as a Marine Corps infantryman and during the Iraq War I served on a convoy protection team operating out of Baghdad with near daily trips on "Route Irish". I sustained a non-battle injury my 7th month in country and was medevac'd to Germany and then on to I believe Dover AFB. After a nauseating flight (due to medication) We arrived in the wee hours of the morning (0200-0300?) and lo and behold four Vietnam veterans were waiting for our arrival, handed out blankets to us and welcomed us home. The Vietnam veterans were our mentors in the 80's-90's when I was a young grunt, we had a deep respect for all that they endured. These are just a few that come to mind (from the USMC GySgt Wehrheim, GySgt Neas, 1stSgt Hall, GySgt Pereira. From the US Army- LTC Robbins (101 ABN), SFC Casey (1st Cav), SGM Romer (1st Cav). These are just a few and there are so many more. God bless and thank you. Thank you for everything.
Wow, thank you for sharing, Robert. Some of the best men, hey. Humble in all ways. Thank you for your service, my friend. Hope life is back to being healthy and peaceful. - Naneek
when he was able to eat dinner with the generals of the Vietnam army...and they drunk and ate together it was a beautiful scene just love man
To be there, to see it and feel the camaraderie amongst the men was incredible. Glad you noticed that as well, DJ A. It was an emotional moment for Naneek even still today. We talk of it often.
The ending had me in tears. Inspirational to see how, it seems, you've managed to keep such a big part of yourself and your morals intact. Much respect for pushing through. I can't imagine the hell it must've been
VikingFevahGames same. fuck warmongers
My dad always said he wanted to go back and see Vietnam. He would always tell me it was the most beautiful country he had ever been to. I think it would have helped him with his demons. I wish I could've helped him make that trip. Nice documentary.
thanks Manny. I think lots of Vietnam vets would have benefited from going back, I put it off for 47 years. Sorry about the loss of dad. Peace.
My dad did 2 tours in Vietnam and lived there for 4 years he has 2 purple hearts, he never talked much about what happened he also was 101st airborne. Thank you for your service, his name is Glenn Lodge
Kudos to you dad and his service to our great nation.
ua-cam.com/video/1sKnOo3bzR8/v-deo.html
Really appreciate ex veteran building up such courage and meeting enemy soldiers, making peace with them... much repsect from this end and grand salute too sirr
Not sure how I’m just seeing this or why it doesn’t have millions of views...incredibly powerful I’m 23 and could not fathom being in that situation being any younger. Just absolutely incredible.
Thank you so much for this, John. Means the world.
So so beautiful!!! I'm a veteran from a peaceful era 1982- 1986. But I am so happy for this soldier was able to do this for his own peace. I have the utmost respect for Vietnam Veterans and all Veterans for that matter. God Bless you and I'm so happy you brought your son! Thank you for your service!!!
thank you James.
Respect to all the Vietnam vets from Finland!
A beautiful Video of how we can forgive and even though we fought an enemy, we can still respect each other enough to know
that we never ever forget the ones we've lost. The fact that you hugged each other and made peace at the end, makes the ones that fought and lost their lives on both sides meaningful and respected in their names....
A great video Tim, it made me cry, your a good man
What an incredible way to find peace and solace. Imagine what the world would be like if we all were able to be like Mr. Naneek. I am a retired military veteran and I thank you for your service to our great nation my "brother in arms".
Thanks for posting this. And for those of you who disliked this video, you didn't have to be raised by a father who fought in this war like I was. When my father slept, sometimes he was back in that hellscape he never asked to fight through in the first place. God bless both American and Vietnamese soldiers and may all of you get some small measure of peace and closure.
Brian, appreciate you. I hope you understood as time went on his trauma. Hope you’re living a peaceful life, my friend.
@TimKeenan have so much respect for you and your son. I'm a skateboarder in my late 30s and mad respect for him to support you in your journey. This made me cry just thinking about how hard it could be to come back and to understand how the vietnamese had to stay there after the invasion and rebuild and reconstruct their life out of love and peace. Sadly the US never learned and will never learn because they never suffered any hardships compared to other parts of the world. My warm love to you and your loved ones.
Was unbelievable to see Jake ride around and how others were so fixated on that alone. Then to see him gift many boards to children. Maybe one day we'll learn indeed.
@@naneekfilm1512 i mean an old veteran and his son giving back to the community there. Thank you.
This was my time. I am in tears. And inspired by the amazing love of human beings. The few that start these conflicts must be stopped. For human beings are powerful amazing creatures ... and must remember that. xo and blessings.
it's amazing that after 50 years these 2 sides can become brothers in arms
My dad is a Vietnam Vet (Army). He did 1 tour in 1969. Doesn’t talk about it much. This is a powerful film, thank you for sharing your story.
This is a very powerful film. I am speechless as to what to say in response, other than “Thank you.” Thank you for putting this film together, thank you to this incredible man for telling his story, and thank you to the Vietnamese veterans who were willing to meet with him and make peace. This is a very raw and honest film that approaches the Vietnam War from a perspective I’ve never seen as a student.
Beautiful movie with a beautiful message about healing and reconciliation through love & forgiveness. Thank you for making this film and sharing it here.
I had tears in my eyes for over half this video. This was excelenty done and put together! Thank you for sharing. Very cool!
My father was a 1st Cav. 1st Brigade 25th infantry platoon Scout Dog 1966-68. He passed just a few days ago and I know he would have enjoyed this video! Thank you!
Watched the whole time with tears in my eyes. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart
I am glad to see Tim to continue to examine his Vietnam experience. It didn't end on April 30, 1975. Like most of us he started out gung-ho and believing all the standard lines about fighting Communism and defending freedom. But many guys started to change after they got in-country. They saw first hand the insanity of the war and started asking questions. There's never been any answers to justify what we were doing to the people and the country. It wasn't until Tim was able to put a human face on his former enemy that he was able to deal with his own personal contribution to the war. Reconciling with your former enemy is one step in the continuing Vietnam experience. Keep going Tim. It only gets better.
That is spot on, Greg. Thank you for this kind note, I'll send along to Tim now! Funny you use gung-ho. Tim would often admit in Q&A's, "As a gung-ho kid from Grand Rapids, I thought we were doing the right thing. What little did I know, though. I left Vietnam never trusting my government. That gung-ho kid will be forever different." - Peace, my friend.
Sadly, with Trump, it is the same. He is filled with slogans and simple explanations for a very complex world. I hope in time people realize this and realize how duped we have been by this psychopath.
If people really knew what is a war scene like. All the young lives lost. The destruction. The innocent lives lost...
When he was going over all the names, that’s when the tears came.
that was very good that he did that. such a wonderful thoughtful man.
This leaves me without words... This was beautiful
you said it all
That salute, man.. From an enemy to an enemy, almost 50 years later. They both understand that they were in impossible situations back then, and respect the courage that going through that takes.
Its one of the few things that have had me shed tears in years.
Noted this on an earlier comment. Light hearted backstory, Njerve: so that gentleman partook in the prairie fire shot with the group. Let's just say, DID NOT go over well for him. He spent much of the post-dinner on a couch laid out and Tim went inside and put a cold cloth to his forehead and sat until he felt better. A moment that NVA certainly appreciated.
As a wife, sister, cousin and friend to veterans of the war, I thank you for your service, welcome you home and thank you for this documentary. It was simply a beautiful journey back with you.
What a great documentary! I've been to Vietnam as a tourist and was overwhelmed with the beauty of this country. Tough to imagine that the endless green which I fell in love with was hell for a lot of soldiers only some years ago.... Many respect for the courage of Tim and all involved making this movie! Much love from Germany!
For the friends, the jungle welcomes them with endless green and serenity.
For the enemies, the jungle serves as their grave.
That is a great quote! Where is it from?@@jar3729
Thank you so much for making this and going back, really great to see this video.
This amazing short documentary shows a important message about war and should be shown in schools all over the world.
agree ZuroX. Should be seen before young people enlist.
I don't know how anyone can watch this without crying. This is really deep. Good on Tim Keenan for being man enough to do that!!
Very brave of you ! hope that trip was healing for you. You had no choice . I'm sorry you had to go there , much respect to you all . thank you!
Thank you AB. This is Tim, from the film.
This is why I work to support our veterans. This is a beautiful film. Thank you for sharing this
To all the Vietnam/Korea vets, you guys are worth more then we deserve. I wish none of this ever happened.
The Horror-Forgiveness is so important. Truth is the first victim in war. Beautiful, heartwarming video. Thank you Naneek for sharing...!
Hope you found peace even what you’been through. Best wishes from me. Pround to be a Vietnamese
Just watched this today 05/10/2020...My Dad brought home a bit of the war...I'm so glad you were brave enough to give your share back. Thankyou Sir. Lest we Forget
To hear a old combat vet’s voice crack with solemn emotion is such a heart wrenching thing. Great video, thank you for sharing this experience.
It was the American leaders back then that sent so many of you to Vietnam to die. Such an emotional statement, when you mentioned to the NVA veterans that they were fighting with a purpose but the Americans just didnt know why they were there and tried hard to survive. May we all live peacefully.
Amen to that last line, Louis.
Peace is a futile illusion if you don't know how to handle a weapon or don't know the techniques of survival.
They were there to protect their ally - south vietnam just like why they were in korea. But things got so ugly and confusing that heroes are viewed villians.
This come from a vietnamese soldier.
There may never be peace, Milan. Seeing former enemies come together, break bread, talk candidly about life without war is a testament to the reality. We're all human. Maybe one day the powers *that be* choose pragmatism over conflict....
mangore623 Nice intelligent reply.
This is probably one of the most moving, amazing videos I've ever seen! Amazing!
it is just amazing what these Vietnam Vets went through on both sides....incredible....so much respect and honor for these men and women who battled. When I see a Vietnam Vet I always go up to them and talk and thank them.
Thank you for this.
The first NVA former soldier's name is Le Huu Loc. Anyway, thank you for te video, It's really touch our heart, the young generation who's trying to learn those lessons through the war.
Edit: How could i help you by translate this video into Vietnamese so more and more people can approach the meaning of your video
Le Huu Loc! Thanks for clarifying that, Nguyen. Had to guess as we weren't able to secure a few NVA names. Thank you for the kind message.
thank you, it was confusing me how that appeared in the subtitle. also, watch the Ken Burns' Vietnam War. it was so far the most detailed documentary and I very much think it's most accurate compare to others. to make it short: Ho Chi Minh was looking for support to get the French out of Viet Nam because he saw the Vietnamese being treated poorly in the labor part and he turned to the US for help but didn't get the help. So in the end he got the help from the USSR which brought on the communism. From that, the US feared the spread of communism in Viet Nam and tried to help the people in the South of Vietnam to retaliate but it's was not successful. The anger and frustrations that fueled the down pour of the north Vietnamese drove out the last of the Americans. Communism took over the land and that anger and frustrations carried on beyond the time Ho Chi Minh's death. I don't think Ho Chi Minh himself had intended such brutality towards anyone. But after he died, those who carried on the war were full of anger and hatred they embraced communism like a lifeboat. But they went too far like a child with a grudge. they tortured their own people in prisons for helping the Americans. they call them traitors and shameful. they brainwashed the children that the Americans were bad people, invading Viet Name. The list goes on. those who tried to leave the country were shot at and imprisoned when caught. See the movie Journey from the Fall.
@Apollo GT your know more than the others but not enough to give the correct conclusion. same as the Americans didn’t know us enough so they were the losers in the war. You should learn more about Vietnamese love and fighting spirit for our fatherland.
What an exceptional story. My family and I was living in Saigon during the war, and fortunately escaped by boat and was accepted by America, and immigrated to Hawaii where we lived for 5yrs, then moved to California. I was just a little boy, and don’t remember much of the war, but I can’t express how much we owe to this country and it’s veterans. As the years past, you likely feel forgotten and unappreciated. But I stand here; want you all to know that is not the case. You’ve given a family of 10 freedom... Thank you to your Dad, and all the veterans for your sacrifice. It made a difference, so please know that.
Man, this was an emotional video to watch. My uncle fought in Vietnam. Like you, Tim, he was drafted at 20 years of age. I rarely heard stories from him about the war. He had that look in his eyes that a small part of his mind and soul was still in Vietnam. I know he thought about the war every single day. I can't imagine having to live with those demons. I know when he got back from the war he struggled with alcohol and substance abuse and eventually became a chapter president of Alcoholics Anonymous to help other people, and many vets, with their own alcohol and substance abuse issues. I would like to share this video with my uncle. Maybe he too can make peace. Tim, thanks for your service and your courage to confront your fears and insecurities with meeting, forgiving and loving your enemy after so many years of resentment, confusion and hate. Truly inspiring story.
Amazing journey back. I have nothing but admiration and respect for yourself and your brothers. All the very best.
This was honestly so beautiful
17:20 those smiles were priceless.... 😭
An absolutely miraculous reconciliation. Thank you for your service to your country and the service to your brothers on both sides of this conflict through your example of giving and receiving forgiveness.
from one soldier to another, i have the highest respect for what youve done. that takes so much courage. unbelievable.