Vietnam Voices: 'How am I going to survive this?'

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  • Опубліковано 9 вер 2015
  • Vietnam War veteran Doc Pickard talks about his experiences. Pickard graduated from Billings Senior High School (Montana) in 1962. He went to Eastern Montana College in business administration from 1962 to 1964. He transferred to the University of Montana to finish his degree but by the second year was “totally flat broke.” He enlisted in the Navy in 1966.

КОМЕНТАРІ • 947

  • @jeffcramer2463
    @jeffcramer2463 3 роки тому +378

    Man. I am so embarrassed that I ever complain about my life. These people are beyond incredible. Thank you so much for what you did.

    • @MarkOBrienmarkspage1
      @MarkOBrienmarkspage1 3 роки тому +16

      No kidding... We need to all be sorry for any complaining

    • @marcclement7396
      @marcclement7396 3 роки тому +14

      yeah. when you think you have it bad think back to this.

    • @benaiahwright937
      @benaiahwright937 3 роки тому +8

      Riiiiight

    • @Erika-vd9qw
      @Erika-vd9qw 3 роки тому +19

      I just wanna say - pain is pain. Just because you haven’t experienced this type of trauma doesn’t mean that your feelings and pain in your life aren’t valid. ♥️ I’ve been through long term traumas of every kind including sexual, psychological, and domestic abuse. What happened to me isn’t as bad as what happened to other survivors of these same traumas. But it was enough to fuck me up. I had to really struggle through understanding that pain is relative, if you’re complaining because you don’t have a lot of money, etc, it’s valid. It sucks. You know?
      Please don’t discredit your pain, it’s valid. I just wanted to put this here for you or anyone else who might need to hear this today.
      Much love

    • @MrChrisBarker
      @MrChrisBarker 3 роки тому +13

      @@Erika-vd9qw I hope you can find peace. This world can be a good place ♥️

  • @richardblazek4780
    @richardblazek4780 3 роки тому +322

    Former marine here, these medical corpsman or who we lovingly referred to as Doc are true heroes although they won't admit it.

    • @marymarmande8446
      @marymarmande8446 3 роки тому +6

      Thank you for your service Sir 💗 ☮️

    • @14arma
      @14arma 3 роки тому +17

      Semper Fi brother, but most corpsmen including myself actually feel that way about Marines and have plenty of stories to tell of how Marines saved the day from combat deployments to preventing us getting chewed out by our plt sgt for something dumb we did in garrison. So right back at ya, and thank you for your service.

    • @piggillespie7290
      @piggillespie7290 3 роки тому +1

      !!

    • @bigtankmctokery543
      @bigtankmctokery543 2 роки тому +10

      There are a LOT of guys my age who owe their very existence to guys like him because they saved the lives of their fathers in Vietnam. Thank you sir for your service.

    • @JamesOfKS
      @JamesOfKS 2 роки тому +2

      You all are.

  • @skynyrdnemoy2418
    @skynyrdnemoy2418 6 років тому +471

    These old Vet stories just suck you right in, it’s better than watching a movie.

    • @huh-by2lr
      @huh-by2lr 5 років тому +7

      True

    • @troyjohnson7154
      @troyjohnson7154 5 років тому +12

      Ive watched about a dozen so far.

    • @ilovenoodles7483
      @ilovenoodles7483 5 років тому +11

      And they are real! Makes you appreciate life more and feed them more my dad who is a Vietnam vet always told me people are people no matter what race you are. It's true.
      America will defend and fight with our allies but also we defend and fight so that none of their evil ideas come to the U.S.
      Not every human on the planet to live in the U.S. but they can dang sure have a basic human right.
      God bless all of our guys from Vietnam.
      Welcome home!
      Love, respect, honor, and dignity.
      These guys are courageous and brave.

    • @kengrimsley4172
      @kengrimsley4172 5 років тому +13

      These guys had brass balls. Esp for 18 or 20yo kids

    • @tankadam6281
      @tankadam6281 4 роки тому +10

      I've been an emotional person but some of these hit you hard

  • @lovelessissimo
    @lovelessissimo 3 роки тому +88

    My grandfather, Bob Gergen, was a corpsman in WW2 in the Pacific. After the war, he settled in Billings and was a hospital administrator. He passed away in 2008, and never once told me about anything he saw.
    Miss you, Grandpa.

    • @Hammerback0
      @Hammerback0 3 роки тому +6

      My papaw fought in that war as well, he too passed in 2008. Similarly, he would never speak of his time in the service. I just posted the same comment as yours on a video "memoirs of WW2 veterans" video. There will never be another group of men like our grandpa's.

    • @cs-rj8ru
      @cs-rj8ru 3 роки тому +5

      My grandfather was in the Navy during the war. He also rarely said anything. Once, my brother was talking about the possibility of joining the Marines....My Grandfather only remarked "You see those bodies floating in the water? Those are the Marines."

    • @lovelessissimo
      @lovelessissimo 3 роки тому +8

      @@Hammerback0 to be honest, I hope it is never necessary to need another group of men like our grandpas.

    • @arielcuenca5037
      @arielcuenca5037 3 роки тому

      🙏🙏🙏

    • @heartpaws519
      @heartpaws519 2 роки тому +2

      They were a Special Breed of men for sure!❤ As were many of these Vietnam Veterans who did not receive appreciation for what they did for many years after returning.

  • @terrysteward6765
    @terrysteward6765 3 роки тому +73

    What an amazing man. What an amazing story! I was saved by an Army medic and very good doctors while working in Iraq as a civilian. Without these wonderful people, a lot of us would not be alive today. Thank you to all the medical personnel who have served in a war zone.

  • @saltyrebel2037
    @saltyrebel2037 2 роки тому +13

    I'm so glad I ran across this series. I was born in 1970 and I lost a very dear friend who fought over there and he was tortured by his memories. He died of a ruptured brain aneurysm caused by alcoholism and preferring his Jim Beam over BP meds. I'll be busy soaking these stories in for a few days between tears. Maybe you honorable men didn't hear it back then, but WE LOVE YOU, WE THANK YOU, and WELCOME HOME!! I miss you, Goat White!

  • @KXTA007
    @KXTA007 2 роки тому +7

    This is what a real man looks like to the young viewers watching this. He never complained about anything and went above and beyond to save his fellow soldiers. They don't make em like this anymore.

  • @jessecunningham7261
    @jessecunningham7261 2 роки тому +2

    When I'm having a bad day I go to these type of videos to remind myself that I really should be grateful

  • @jamesfriend4344
    @jamesfriend4344 2 роки тому +21

    US Army medic here, I went to Vietnam in 1970 and left in 1971. I worked in a Quonset hut and also filled in as a helicopter ambulance medic for runs out to firefights and on up to Cam Ranh, the giant hospital there. I think about my time there every day. Finally I was recognized as being damaged by Agent Orange by the V.A. I now live close to a hospital and I hear helicopters every day. It just makes me feel safe somehow...Huey Medevacs saved countless lives, through all the deaths, so many lived thanks to Medevac rescues. I never forgot what a blessing blood volume expander fluids were, how that stuff saved so many soldiers and Marines.

    • @irenedemarco1354
      @irenedemarco1354 Рік тому +1

      Cant imagine what you went through prior to getting to hospital....
      one vial morphine each...
      holy schmoley....
      How men survive the heinous injuries shows what the human body can cope with !...
      Im sure the sound of a chopper was amazing for the wounded...not so much when in a firefight....or waiting for airstrike, that would have been a shitter.
      So pleased youre getting Agent Orange recognition...its left an awful legacy....
      Thank you for your service....
      💞✌️🙏

  • @lorettabrail7806
    @lorettabrail7806 2 роки тому +123

    Love these interviews! Lost friends and my husband over that war... we had a beautiful daughter born in ‘69 at Elmondorf Airforce base by Anchorage Alaska! She is amazing and very beautiful inside and out! It is a comfort to watch and listen to these interviews! Thank-you to these servicemen and women for your service! And thank-you for sharing!

    • @michaelkinville177
      @michaelkinville177 2 роки тому +6

      Thank you for your personal sacrifices

    • @tylerdavis2517
      @tylerdavis2517 2 роки тому +2

      Ya

    • @Gaybraham.Lincoln
      @Gaybraham.Lincoln 2 роки тому +1

      Did they die in the war? So sorry for your loss

    • @Hubcapdiamondstarhalo
      @Hubcapdiamondstarhalo 2 роки тому +1

      Thank you for your sacrifice.

    • @howardwatts4238
      @howardwatts4238 2 роки тому +2

      My dad was a ww2 marine corpman, when i quit collage he cryed. Ask me what was i got to do i said join the marine corp he cryed again and said ive killed enough people for the whole family, i went into the national gurad ive been regreating it sence the 80s. I feel i cheeted the guys that went. At 74 i really feel bad.

  • @theoilandgasresourceportal2132
    @theoilandgasresourceportal2132 4 роки тому +39

    What a quality guy, respect from the U.K.

  • @treyray2
    @treyray2 Рік тому +7

    I really enjoy these interviews. In my opinion these are real men. Then keep in mind how young they were. Incredible. Thank you for this interview and all of them. God Bless those who served, are serving or will someday serve

  • @AMan-io7wt
    @AMan-io7wt 3 роки тому +75

    This guys memory is unreal. He seems to know the name and hometown of every solder he touched. Tragic to live a life with all that dark shit in your head.

    • @johnnyo1821
      @johnnyo1821 3 роки тому +7

      Some things just can't be forgotten

    • @On3_Fons3ca
      @On3_Fons3ca 2 роки тому +1

      I wonder to what degree he just can’t forget some of the events… sad events but this guy is a real pool of wisdom!

    • @JamesOfKS
      @JamesOfKS 2 роки тому +1

      I am gonna guess that in his attempt to comfort(or gauge severity of injury of) his dying or wounded he would talk to them and ask them where they are from and about their home etc.

    • @rsmetz88
      @rsmetz88 2 роки тому

      @@On3_Fons3ca On replay everyday I'd imagine.

    • @lalaniathielen8917
      @lalaniathielen8917 2 роки тому +1

      Thank you for recognizing the same horrible truths... And realizing how REAL... I appreciate your recognition

  • @darkpassenger65
    @darkpassenger65 3 роки тому +42

    I've watched a lot of these episodes. This guy is a full on hero.

  • @craigsalomonson5913
    @craigsalomonson5913 3 роки тому +8

    This man is a hero. No matter how anyone felt during the War, there is no doubt he served with honor. And deserves our respect and honor. God bless our Vietnam Veterans!!

  • @rossmorebaz
    @rossmorebaz 3 роки тому +62

    living history folks .. just imagine some of the stuff that this man has seen and experienced ..i could listen to this all day .. Huge respect for our Vets X

  • @braddywarbucks
    @braddywarbucks 3 роки тому +62

    This guy lived through one of the most intense tours of anyone in the war.

    • @Kenia-sn1cg
      @Kenia-sn1cg 2 роки тому

      I find it vindictive that the U.S. chooses to call war "tours" like the soldiers are on vocation in Vietnam. Kind of that double speak language that is meant to make unpleasant things seem pleasant coz the marines really arent going on a tour but to kill

    • @warshipsatin8764
      @warshipsatin8764 2 роки тому +1

      @@Kenia-sn1cg what about the other countries who also refer to it as a "tour of duty", or have another kind of name for it? or how germany called auschwitz a "labor camp"?
      i find it vindictive when people constantly criticize the US for things that virtually every country is guilty of. its also indicative of a narrow world view and very little knowledge of history

    • @anon2427
      @anon2427 2 роки тому +2

      @@warshipsatin8764 that’s because it was a labor camp

    • @MarkusBracey-cs5rm
      @MarkusBracey-cs5rm 4 місяці тому +1

      My father was on that Jan 19th Recon patrol that started Khe sanh. Sylvester Bracey Sr 3rd div 9th Marine RECON 67-69

    • @HWG-wm8ld
      @HWG-wm8ld 11 днів тому

      1st or 3rd recon? Force or div?

  • @MorganYoung-lostmedic
    @MorganYoung-lostmedic 8 років тому +159

    I have a lot of respect for this Corpsman to be able to talk about his experiences. It is not easy to explain to those that do not have a frame of reference, to begin with.

  • @DaveH-10
    @DaveH-10 3 роки тому +7

    This is what a true hero looks like. What an amazing person.

  • @felixmadison5736
    @felixmadison5736 Рік тому +4

    When I was wounded by shrapnel in December of 1969, I would have died without question if not for the MASH units in Vietnam. I was hit in my left foot, (cut through my jungle boot and almost lost all my toes) both legs, both arms, and right flank, with kidney and liver damage. I remember vividly the blood just gushing from the large wound. I still have the scars of course, with one that goes around that right side and inches from my spine. From December of '69, (a month before my 21st birthday) until September of 1970, I had multiple surgeries and my weight dropped down to 100 pounds. The first time I saw myself in a full length mirror at a hospital in Vietnam, I couldn't believe my eyes! I looked like a walking skeleton pulling along a IV pole!

  • @jameshickey9393
    @jameshickey9393 4 роки тому +42

    I'm a Vietnam Vet and I call BS on some of these interviews. This is not one of them, he does not speak in generalizations but is very specific about where he was , names of people and dates and times. Keep this in mind when watching these interviews.

    • @mariekatherine5238
      @mariekatherine5238 4 роки тому +3

      James Hickey Stolen valor stories are often so bad they’d be laughable if they weren’t so morally bankrupt.

    • @maxrockatansky1271
      @maxrockatansky1271 3 роки тому +3

      thanks for the insight. Im glad i hear it from a genuine vet like yourself. I always want to to believe everything i hear but maybe im just gullible.

    • @gchuggins
      @gchuggins 3 роки тому +8

      All of the Billings Gazette interviews are straight up Nam combat vets.

    • @donaldjones7678
      @donaldjones7678 3 роки тому +1

      @@gchuggins I was a grunt in Vietnam 1971. You can always tell BS if you've been there.

    • @donaldjones7678
      @donaldjones7678 3 роки тому +6

      This guy is the real deal

  • @misenplace8442
    @misenplace8442 4 роки тому +41

    Respect is earned, not given as a gift...
    THIS man deserves respect!

  • @ede7722
    @ede7722 2 роки тому +2

    I give Doc Pickard a lot of kudos for the service to his country. I'm very surprised he didn't correct the interviewer who kept call him a medic. You earned the title of Corpsman and deserved to be call it correctly. Also the interviewer was calling Doc's fellow Marines - soldiers. I and almost every single Marine takes pride in what we went through to gain the title and we collectively do not like being called soldiers. While watching this I almost felt that the interviewer wasn't really listening to Doc when using the term "medic" and "soldier". Doc handled this with a lot more dignity than I would have. I am a former Marine who like others have said, we appreciate our Corpsman because they are right there in the shit with us.

  • @haroldkerrii6085
    @haroldkerrii6085 4 роки тому +47

    God bless this man. I can see his hurt all these years later. Thank you for your service.

  • @ramrodrymensnyder2648
    @ramrodrymensnyder2648 3 роки тому +27

    Thank you to all those who have served. These videos should be mandatory for every teenager in this country.

    • @abbiehanke2780
      @abbiehanke2780 2 роки тому

      Yes it should but I doubt they could understand it. It's so wonderful to hear and I have such respect. Beyond words

  • @chefjamesscott
    @chefjamesscott 7 років тому +114

    It shocks me that this has only got 3200 views and has been posted since sept 10 2015. Shared with no hesitation on social media.

    • @davidkohler7454
      @davidkohler7454 4 роки тому +11

      Yes. I am just blown away that this interview hasn't had a million plus views.. This Man deserves everyone's Respect.

    • @mariekatherine5238
      @mariekatherine5238 4 роки тому +9

      James Scott Agree. Kids ought to be made to hear these guys. My father enlisted in the Navy in 1947. He’d tried with his cousin three years earlier and they got caught-under age! He missed WWII, but served in Korea and Vietnam. He left in 1966, just as Vietnam was really getting hot. Then he worked as a civilian out of Lakehurst, NJ.

    • @adrinathegreat3095
      @adrinathegreat3095 3 роки тому +4

      I'm not surprised, it's not a pop video or a viral video, it's more a documentary, a piece of history.

    • @HartJon282
      @HartJon282 2 роки тому +2

      The majority of people my age (mid-20’s) arent so out of touch. We’re here! We’re curious! And we care! For the 2000’s kids, well, I can't speak for them but have a hunch it's not the same for them.

    • @anon2427
      @anon2427 2 роки тому

      @@HartJon282 usually Gen Z is more into this stuff than millennials

  • @adrianh332
    @adrianh332 3 роки тому +10

    The interviewer is superb, he knows just how to get the best out of the subject while being sensitive and respectful.

  • @fasst45072
    @fasst45072 4 роки тому +203

    I've listened to probably over 100 Vietnam Vet interviews on UA-cam and by far this series is the best. Fantastic job Darrell and crew

    • @stevecuzz8820
      @stevecuzz8820 2 роки тому +1

      The Billings Gazette. interviewer is very cool. He doesn't interrupt.

  • @Musabe009
    @Musabe009 3 роки тому +10

    I walk with a marine vet that was in the same theater as him in the same year. This guy is spitting truth after truth!

  • @johng4250
    @johng4250 5 років тому +182

    Medics/corpsman a very special breed of cat. Their every day duties are what we could call above and beyond!

    • @oldman9843
      @oldman9843 4 роки тому +11

      Yes sir , my boy was a combat medic in Afghanistan .

    • @gregroland1519
      @gregroland1519 3 роки тому

      @@oldman9843 ooooo

    • @gregroland1519
      @gregroland1519 3 роки тому

      @@oldman9843 ooooooooooo

    • @CABINDAD
      @CABINDAD 3 роки тому +12

      Their job was to be a hero’s hero. Become invisible, rush out under fire, repair / return fallen hero, carry on. Thanks for your service doc. Welcome home. Job well done.

    • @popildave8450
      @popildave8450 3 роки тому

      O0ooo0o

  • @willjames1949
    @willjames1949 5 років тому +28

    Doc, I hope you get a chance to read some of these comments. From a 30 year old who is probably much younger than you, I can't put into words the amount of respect I have for you and for your service. Thank you for being you, and for you selfless sense of duty being a Corpsman. Our country and generation has never expressed our gratefulness enough. Thank you.

  • @maineoutdoorsman677
    @maineoutdoorsman677 7 років тому +44

    God bless you sir an thank you for your service .really thank you

    • @samuelparker9882
      @samuelparker9882 7 років тому +2

      Sheldon Winter soldier Medics and Corpesmen are ANGELS.

    • @slit4659
      @slit4659 4 роки тому

      Maine Made......I guess YOUR FAKE GOD DIDN'T BLESS THE 6 DEAD THIS GUY HAD TO TAG....

    • @racer774
      @racer774 4 роки тому

      @@slit4659 - I guess you weren't raised to respect other's beliefs.

  • @arfshesaid4325
    @arfshesaid4325 2 роки тому +4

    what a solid man, thank you for everything

  • @manhalen7046
    @manhalen7046 3 роки тому +12

    What a great interview.
    My dad was a Corpsman in vietnam in the 1965/1966 timeframe and only told us a handful of stories, one being when his buddy and fellow Corpsman assigned to another platoon went out with a QRF north of Da Nang in 1966 in response to contact and never came back. My dad said he was inconsolable and was comforted by a marine corps colonel. He was in 1st MarDiv and also operated north of Da Nang. They called him mouse and I hope someone out there recognizes his nickname, he'd love to connect with former Marines and Corpsman he was with.

  • @themeat5053
    @themeat5053 4 роки тому +40

    Doc gave one of the best interviews I've ever heard re: Viet Nam. Drive on, Doc

    • @stevedouglas7375
      @stevedouglas7375 3 роки тому +3

      The Meat, I totally agree! I could listen to him all day recount his experiences over there. He went through that whole ordeal and on his final moments on the airplane that was departing to take him home, the airstrip was taking mortar rounds. He thought the airplane was going to get hit and kill them. Incredible!

  • @deano6912
    @deano6912 3 роки тому +19

    Thank-you for everything you did Doc. You’re a quality human being.

  • @mmoly-cj4bd
    @mmoly-cj4bd 3 роки тому +39

    I can't emphasize enough how important it is to talk to these men and hear their stories. What a great idea. Absolutely fascinating! Unsung heroes! Truly great Americans. If your having a bad day simply watch this video and be thankful you are an American and be thankful some of your fellow Americans are truly incredible people! Thanks Doc!

  • @GapBahnDirk
    @GapBahnDirk 3 роки тому +14

    Vivid memories, 50 years on. A fantastic interview.

  • @Spennyman10
    @Spennyman10 2 роки тому +2

    The things this man has seen are horrific. Thank you sir for all that you did.

  • @heydadd
    @heydadd 3 роки тому +15

    my cousin Johnnie was a corpsman in Nam and it wrecked him. He became alcoholic trying to escape what he saw and experienced.

  • @Boogyman337
    @Boogyman337 5 років тому +26

    Thank you very much, Doc for taking good care of my brothers.

  • @mikem3875
    @mikem3875 3 роки тому +14

    I could listen to this guy all day, incredible interview

  • @mrsir1872
    @mrsir1872 3 роки тому +11

    what a genius move to get ammo bags and fill them with medical supplies, as to not look like a medic and be targeted. that single move alone probably saved his life more times that he has fingers and toes. this man came back alive because he was smart.

  • @mokeski2196
    @mokeski2196 3 роки тому +9

    My son is currently in the Navy. I hope he never has to go thru what you went thru Doc. God Bless you. I was in the Army and I lucked out and went to Germany after being drafted. My father was a ww11 Navy veteran and served in the south pacific.

  • @robinbolton6064
    @robinbolton6064 3 роки тому +5

    I'm a Canadian... but Americans are my brothers and sisters....this soldier is a hero no other way to put !
    Sir....you are a defender of freedom and provided care and dignity in dark places. God bless you Sir!

  • @docswatchbox8321
    @docswatchbox8321 3 роки тому +7

    There isn’t a salute of respect big enough for this man. As a fellow FMF Corpsman, combat veteran and American - Semper Fi, “Doc”.

  • @wlingrell
    @wlingrell 3 роки тому +14

    This fellow and young men like him were real hero's. It is hard for anyone who has not experienced combat and combat conditions to imagine what they went through. God Bless them all.

  • @andrewsinkinson2733
    @andrewsinkinson2733 2 роки тому +5

    That was a well spent 1 hour 20 minutes .You told us of your experiences impeccably and with Dignity. I never experienced anything like Vietnam but I would be eternally grateful to have you there when I was injured .
    I'm so sorry for all you vets who were not respected upon your return .
    Hold your head up high brother.

  • @rollinntumblin
    @rollinntumblin 3 роки тому +19

    This guy -- like other vets -- is a hero. Period.

  • @johneynon7121
    @johneynon7121 3 роки тому +6

    We nearly crossed path serving as fellow Hospital Corpsman. My schooling was in San Digeo summer of 1965 (16 week crash course), another 5 weeks at Camp Pendleton (Del Mar). Arrived in Nam around Sept. of 1966 after working at Naval Hospital San Diego. Upon arriving in Vietnam I worked at Ist med batt in Chu Lia, working in Triage/I.C.U. Later the Battalion (1/1) moved to Da Nang. Sometime in early 1967 request were made for Corpsman willing to go to the field, because of the great lost of Corpsman during those days. I knew and answered the need and did end up with a small combined action unit ( Delta 3) 20 miles S. of Da Nange. Was wounded while on patrol on May 18, 1967. We all have our stories to tell. Thats mine in a nut shell.
    P.S. My brother did 3 tours with the Army in Vietnam. Went from Private to Lt. Col, earning 2 purple hearts, at age 38 died of Agent Orange. Father did WW2 with the Navy, lost 2 ships, but lived to tell his story.

    • @FIGGY65
      @FIGGY65 3 роки тому

      Hello Sir. Mr Eynon,
      Did you serve (or know) with Joseph Ayd?
      Thank You for your time!
      Warm regards,
      Shawn

    • @johneynon7121
      @johneynon7121 3 роки тому

      Its been to many years to remember names who I served with. Besides, I was pretty much a loner. Sorry that I couldn't help you.
      Believe me, most who served in that conflict were good men. I never met women serving oversea. God bless them one and all.

  • @ThePponu
    @ThePponu 7 років тому +89

    Excellent interview. As close as one can get without being there by listening to Doc describe I Corps in the year of Tet. It was horrible for all.
    God Bless you Doc Pickard.

  • @stevebickle5944
    @stevebickle5944 4 роки тому +14

    This man is a hero nobody should ever have to go through what he went through God bless you

  • @johnvanstone5336
    @johnvanstone5336 3 роки тому +6

    What an eloquent and brave man, I salute this man for his candour and humanity🤘🇬🇧

  • @hejnye
    @hejnye 3 роки тому +8

    Thank you for your service Doc Pickard, so glad you made it back.

  • @edstyer2566
    @edstyer2566 3 роки тому +10

    Thank you sir for your service. I’m a combat medic in VN and Iraq.

    • @blessedbee186
      @blessedbee186 Рік тому

      Thank you for your service. God bless you Ed Styer.

  • @TheGoldsholl
    @TheGoldsholl 3 роки тому +4

    I am overwhelmed , never have I been so emotional and also proud of this hero . This is a superior person who’ story has changed my life . I am endlessly thankful that this soldier was here to tell his story

  • @kenmichener8439
    @kenmichener8439 3 роки тому +3

    Love you bro God bless you and yours my dad was a marine twice wounded in Korea I joined the army in 1979 I love this country I took the oath and I stand by it thank you for your service sir I loved your story and I'll remember it for a long time maybe forever

  • @TheMattc999
    @TheMattc999 5 років тому +27

    I did not expect this gentleman to say he "did a bunch of carousing and partying", but I'm glad he did, God knows he earned it.

    • @cedarmillman52
      @cedarmillman52 3 роки тому +1

      Everyone needs to watch these interviews. This one is of a teacher who can teach for many years to come. I don’t think this can be watched without gaining a lesson in humility for one thing. I think there’s also a lesson on making your life worth something. These two lesson just touch a small part
      Of what this man taught in this interview. Thank You Sir.

  • @mattlourer9692
    @mattlourer9692 4 роки тому +25

    There has to be a special place in heaven for the combat vet.

    • @gregcheney7173
      @gregcheney7173 4 роки тому +3

      I sure hope so.

    • @utapao74
      @utapao74 3 роки тому

      There is, and for everyone else as well. But everyone has to make the decision to go God's way.
      For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. John 3:16 -19
      We're either saved by God's mercy and grace through the perfect sacrifice of God's Son at Calvary. Or, as the verses above clearly state, we stand condemned. No one needs to die condemned, holding on to their sins. Jesus bore our sins and has already paid the debt we owe for them.
      Make a decision to accept Jesus today as your Lord and Savior. Call on him in simple childlike faith and He will forgive you, and give you eternal life as a free gift.
      For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23
      For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9
      Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved... Acts 16:31
      For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Romans 10:13

    • @charleshunter7989
      @charleshunter7989 3 роки тому

      All vets I think but yeah combat vets only carry handgun mostly medic stuff

  • @michaelp5518
    @michaelp5518 2 роки тому +1

    Incredible interview. As an infantry marine vietnam era. This Corpsman is not only a navy corpsman but he is a marine too. Even talks the talk. Simper Fi! A true hero.

  • @MrGAGE71505
    @MrGAGE71505 3 роки тому +4

    I have nothing but respect for all Veterans my Dad served in Vietnam and my cousin was killed in the Korean War

  • @Jetlee89
    @Jetlee89 3 роки тому +6

    Could listen to this man all day long. Bless his soul. His been through so much.

  • @timmitzlaff8960
    @timmitzlaff8960 3 роки тому +5

    This guy from Billings Montana is Heaven sent. He must have saved so many lives. A true American hero! Thank you 🙏

  • @wocookie2277
    @wocookie2277 3 роки тому +9

    90 days of combat as a medic! Wow, true legend! Respect brother!

  • @khammar6081
    @khammar6081 5 років тому +14

    Thank you sooooo much for your service!! You are what America is all about!

  • @travisikkanda9055
    @travisikkanda9055 5 років тому +56

    These interviews are absolutely priceless. Thanks for your service, Doc, and thanks for sharing your experience with us. Semper Fi, good sir.

  • @tundrawomansays5067
    @tundrawomansays5067 7 років тому +102

    Yk when they get loaded on the chopper and you never find out if they made it-but ya hope they did? They may not remember your name-but they do remember you came. In the middle of the firefight, with the rockets/mortars still coming in you came and started patching them up and spoke to them and told them they were gonna be OK.
    And they were.
    These are the ones who went on to live their lives-and they always remembered you. On behalf of them, of their loved ones, their families, communities, thank you. You may have felt like what you were doing was at times like sticking your finger in an endless dike of mangled broken bodies but like a stone tossed into a pool of water, those ripples of your actions have reverberated through so many, many lives beyond just their's over the decades since that day. And all that happened because of you, one kid from Montana who was "just doing my job."
    There is a piece of you that you gave them that day and they treasure, honor and are reminded of often, sometimes daily.
    A heartfelt thank you from all of them-and me too, Doc Picard.

    • @mariekatherine5238
      @mariekatherine5238 4 роки тому +3

      TundraWoman Says I second that! My father was a helicopter mechanic.

    • @DocM.
      @DocM. 4 роки тому +8

      That was beautiful. Brought a tear to my eye. That needs to be a plaque/display for veterans and EMS

    • @paule6945
      @paule6945 3 роки тому +4

      100% agree, no added words required 👏👏👏

    • @mdsign001
      @mdsign001 3 роки тому +1

      Amen.

    • @Cody-9309
      @Cody-9309 3 роки тому

      Fuckin WOW!! Thank you doc

  • @joepippin9596
    @joepippin9596 2 роки тому +6

    Thank you for serving our country 🇺🇸👍🇺🇸😊

  • @rikvandok
    @rikvandok 3 роки тому +16

    Sir, I just watched your interview and am seriously impressed and touched. Been born in 61, in Holland.
    If ever I meet you, I’d love to buy you a beer, if not, I’ll have one in your honor.

    • @T.v.d.V
      @T.v.d.V 3 роки тому

      Lulhannes... verzin een andere reden om te "drinken en genieten".... hoe dom kan je zijn om bij dit relaas de conclusie te trekken... een lekker biertje drinken en eervol zijn.... wuft, onbeleeft en misplaatst.

    • @rikvandok
      @rikvandok 3 роки тому +4

      @@T.v.d.V for those of you who don't speak Dutch, first let me give you the translation of Mr T.vd. Venne wrote ( IMHO not to respectful):
      "Dickhead, make up another reason to drink and enjoy. How stupid can you be to draw the conclusion on this account to drink a nice beer and be honorable. dumb, rude and out of place"
      Just to clarify my initial comment, I have , in contrary to what Mr. vd Venne tries to imply, the greatest respect for the gentleman in the video, I am thoroughly impressed by his story and would love to meet this gentleman to listen to more of his stories and thoughts over a beer.
      ( Or a cup of tea/ coffee/ wine )
      But I presume that most of the readers of my comment understood that.

    • @mdsign001
      @mdsign001 3 роки тому

      @@rikvandok typisch Nederlands, altijd wat te zeiken. Niets van aantrekken!

  • @KimberlyBarkdoll
    @KimberlyBarkdoll 2 роки тому +4

    I'm so glad that this interviewer was able to help the rest of us understand the nuances of "what was happening, where do you go from here", because even though a question might sound irrelevant, there are ppl that have no idea what it was like, or what happened to their dad, to someone who was there, it might sound obvious, and even to the interviewer, who has done many of these interviews, he may understand at this point. But, the vet is not just saying it out loud for the interviewer, he is saying it for the viewer. The one who isn't there to say, what was that? How did that work out...what happens then? There is someone out here, watching this... that is able to have a glimpse of the world, that it was. And, honestly, I am a vet, my husband is a war wartime vet...it is good for us to know why we are so lucky to have the level of care that we are afforded, I can only imagine, because of the struggle that these vets went through and fought for, and we are the beneficiaries of their efforts as our husbands and loved ones come back and have to deal with re-integrating into "the world". I am a VA Caregiver as well to my husband and I can tell you that there was not a program like this for any of the wives and family to be able to help them and "their vet". I am so utterly grateful for these interviews.

  • @laurence1643
    @laurence1643 Місяць тому +1

    If I needed a medic I would sure want Doc Pickard to take care of me. The epidemy of the best corpsman. Thanks Doc for what you did for those Marines !
    USAF 66-70

  • @oldman9843
    @oldman9843 4 роки тому +7

    Thank you Doc for first your service and secondly saving all those young men .

  • @pfossful
    @pfossful 5 років тому +36

    How do 11 people give this a thumbs down ? He was a medic.

    • @TheMattc999
      @TheMattc999 5 років тому +6

      Paul S they were VC.....

    • @howardfortyfive9676
      @howardfortyfive9676 4 роки тому +2

      Thin skinned A holes. I've binge watched many of these Nam vet stories. Gazette stories are the best as yall have comments afterwards. I cherish my 1stA. NY does NOT. F NY. 11.19.2019 1221

    • @danthedewman1
      @danthedewman1 4 роки тому +3

      How does one worry about likes and dislikes..If you like the video that's all that matters

    • @MoeSlislack
      @MoeSlislack 4 роки тому +3

      @@danthedewman1 because you have to wonder about the weak character of someone who dislikes a video of someone who makes sacrifices like these Men have. It's disturbing.

    • @bobbates7421
      @bobbates7421 3 роки тому +3

      There’s at least 11 people out there that think too much of themselves. I think they’re scumbags myself.

  • @Tiresias55
    @Tiresias55 3 роки тому +4

    39:10 Jesus Christ. Hearing him struggle to answer, hearing his voice break as he struggled to get the words out breaks my heart. Massive respect to you and all other service men and women 🫡. I just can't help but feel the interviewer could have shown more compassion in asking the question. It must've been obvious he was hurting.

  • @0U8123MTA3
    @0U8123MTA3 4 роки тому +33

    39:10 And that is why vets keep quiet. It's hard to function if these memories are brought up. It's wise to record the interview so the stories are only told one time if ever.

  • @dennymears1960
    @dennymears1960 4 роки тому +28

    Dang This poor guy went through some crap ! I could not imagine the hell that was witnessed by him

    • @terrysickels9348
      @terrysickels9348 3 роки тому

      Unless their
      None can

    • @terrysickels9348
      @terrysickels9348 3 роки тому

      Read it but dont go gung ho on it the minute you see a
      Vet trying to prove you know all about it ,,,for if you never were ,,, ,,,,,..

  • @Brough1111
    @Brough1111 3 роки тому +7

    I am in awe of these people's bravery unselfishness. This is best I've found thank you

  • @TheDCGuitar13
    @TheDCGuitar13 3 роки тому +6

    I remember being part of a youth delegation trip in dc once and one of the chaperones was a very small harmless looking man who was soft spoken. On the last day after everyone was more acquainted, we were sharing life experiences and he was really trying to hammer on the point of no half measures in life and told us about his experience as a tunnel rat. He wanted us to know that there’s no guarantees in life and that you have to do your beat 100% of the time because your time may run out at any moment. I wish I could see that man again. Hope he is alive and well.

  • @samalw
    @samalw 2 роки тому +1

    Great interview and interviewee! A hand salute to this corpsman a true hero!!! USAF, C-130s. ‘70-‘71.

  • @jeffsmith2022
    @jeffsmith2022 8 років тому +16

    Frag wounds from artillery...thank you for your service Doc...

  • @stevetackett581
    @stevetackett581 3 роки тому +8

    My Father is an Army veteran of Vietnam and my uncle a veteran and served two tours with the 173rd Airborne and was a medic. Neither of them ever told me the first “story” or volunteered a word about their service. I wish you could’ve interviewed them!

    • @benbenett785
      @benbenett785 3 роки тому +1

      My dad served with the 173rd 2nd of the 503rd 68-69he never says much either other than hes done enough killin for everybody his nickname was el cid im told they all had nicknames

    • @KidDynamite6
      @KidDynamite6 Рік тому

      173rd seen tons of action insanely good group of guys

  • @jonbranch710
    @jonbranch710 3 роки тому +18

    As a kid I used to love hearing stories from my dad and friends about vietnam.. very humbling and terrifying. I did 3 tours in Iraq but the things these men went through was just incredible.

  • @JJ_SDWR
    @JJ_SDWR 11 місяців тому +1

    Thank you for your service! And thank you to the interviewer for asking the right questions, being respectful, etc.

  • @mattihaw6571
    @mattihaw6571 4 роки тому +22

    You are a patriot Doc - May you always know that your loved and appreciated by people you will never know or meet.

    • @4snowdog
      @4snowdog 3 роки тому

      Amen brother.

    • @UltimateForceMarketing
      @UltimateForceMarketing 3 роки тому +1

      And we got all these liberal democrats that could really give a sh#t about our Vets and just think what these awesome warriors must be thinking of just what their mission of Stopping Communism from creating a presence here in America!!??

  • @DustinBruce31
    @DustinBruce31 3 роки тому +4

    Since Vietnam veterans were never praised by their own country like the generations before and afterwards. Though he’s likely passed away now and will never read this anyway but thank you all for what you young men had to witness and do what it took just to stay alive! And also, Welcome Home because y’all didn’t get those heartfelt airport terminal full of loving welcoming friends and family, no matter how someone felt about that conflict these men didn’t deserve the treatment they came back home and endured.

  • @Chrisamos412
    @Chrisamos412 4 роки тому +15

    WOW! That was an excellent interview! Thank you Doc for your service, I know watching many of these interviews, you hear a lot praise coming from the Marines in regards to the USN Corpsman. You’re all heroes!

  • @debhamilton5332
    @debhamilton5332 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you sir for sharing your story. My dad was a Vietnam medic as well 67-69. He never talks about his experience there. Your story sheds some light on what he went through. I never knew.

  • @jaybee5659
    @jaybee5659 3 роки тому +2

    I believed what our politicians told us and volunteered for duty in Vietnam. But the peace treaty was signed while I was undergoing military training. So instead of being sent overseas, I was offered an early out.. I decided to finish my training and serve on active duty during peace time. Although I don't care for war movies unless they are documentaries, I never get tired of listening to real war experiences from veterans who were there.

  • @mariekatherine5238
    @mariekatherine5238 4 роки тому +6

    It’s a shame there are so few views. I could listen to these men for hours. It’s fascinating to hear what was really going on as I was growing up. Our Dad was in the Navy, but I was too young to understand the larger picture. Respect to anyone who supports the the front line troops.

  • @aikishugyo
    @aikishugyo 3 роки тому +6

    Total respect. Very intelligent gentleman, insightful interview, lots of lessons there.

  • @j.dunlop8295
    @j.dunlop8295 8 місяців тому +2

    I was at a package store on a base in Washington Tacoma 1974, I saw two nam veterans screaming at each other, cursing across the street, they ran at each other, grasping and hugged, they'd thought that each other was killed in Vietnam! Grown soldiers crying!😢

  • @shellmanbrandon2538
    @shellmanbrandon2538 2 місяці тому +1

    Thank you Doc Pickard. Your service was immense.

  • @heinrichmuller7974
    @heinrichmuller7974 7 років тому +37

    Amazing recall of events and detail, you just know your lucky this is as close to warfare as you'll get.

    • @edstyer2566
      @edstyer2566 3 роки тому +1

      Heinrich Muller I was a medic and some memories never let me alone

    • @heinrichmuller7974
      @heinrichmuller7974 3 роки тому +1

      @@edstyer2566 i thank you for your service

  • @jaymaloney8321
    @jaymaloney8321 3 роки тому +5

    Doc,
    One of my Friends from home, LCPL John Larkin, 2nd platoon, Echo Company, 2/4, died of GSW on 18 March, '68, somewhere up in Quang Tri. I wonder if you might have known John? (I was an army medic... Americal, RVN '68-'69)
    Fabulous interview, Doc. Thanks for everything. You saved lives Brother, and you came home a good man.

    • @blessedbee186
      @blessedbee186 Рік тому

      Thank you for your service Jay. God bless you.

  • @sierramodre1
    @sierramodre1 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you Doc for sharing your experience as well as your service to our country

  • @Kimchiboy08
    @Kimchiboy08 Рік тому +2

    Welcome home man.
    Thank you for these interviews.

  • @davidkohler7454
    @davidkohler7454 4 роки тому +10

    Thank you for your service Doc. Glad you made it back alive. Just can't express enough how much Respect you Deserve. From all those thousand hours of medical internship patching up our soldiers that came back with horrific injuries. To being out there in the jungle for many months straight ,saving untold lives. Just an amazing Man. And then having to still deal with all those memories, that at times can be just a living nightmare. You Sir have my deepest respect. Can't say thank you enough.. it's a travesty for anyone to have to have gone through as much Hell as you have..

  • @majorpayne5289
    @majorpayne5289 4 роки тому +7

    👍God has blessed this man. Thank you for the interview & thank you sir for serving.

  • @user-uw8bm1jv8k
    @user-uw8bm1jv8k Місяць тому

    That's a great American right there. Thanks to Doc Pickard, and all the vets that served during such tough times.

  • @georgemarklow4683
    @georgemarklow4683 3 роки тому +3

    A very informative perspective on the Vietnam war from the battlefront - a brilliant guest speaker and good questioning by the interviewer. Thanks from George (London, UK)