This story was submitted as part of Minnesota Remembers Vietnam. We have faithfully reproduced each story as it was originally submitted for the Story Wall, and have not corrected any spelling or grammar errors.
By Jean Sandusky | Sibling of Veteran | Minneapolis, MN
It didnt make sense. We were proud of him.
There were others who did. But he refused no matter how many of us asked. No matter how many times we asked, even begged. He wouldn’t do it…… I was too young to understand, but now, I “get it”.
There are five siblings in our family. My oldest brother “signed up” upon graduation. He was seventeen, having an April birthday, he started school at younger vs. older age. I dont believe he needed my parent’s sigñature to enlist, as I recall my mother was proud, but very upset when she found out he’d enlisted.
Richard joined the Army. He was sent to Vietnam out of bookcamp, as all probably were. He was wounded and once healed enough was honorably discharged. I’m not sure of the timeline, Richard doesn’t speak of his Army time, never does never did. But it was the uniform thing I didnt understand…..
You see, being girls, my Mother, sisters, and I ALL thought Richard looked so handsome in his uniform. When he was home on leave he refused to wear it. My Mother especially wanted him to wear it to Sunday Mass. He refused.
I dont remember what actually went down, if it happened more than once, or was just one day. But, it seemed we each begged, almost harassed him to wear it. I was only nine years old, but it stuck in my brain, that this made no sense. That he looked so nice in uniform, but refused to wear it, even to church. I thought it was “dressy” “go to church” clothing.
Now, because I am 61, and can look back at the history, I realize he didnt want to wear it because he didnt want to be in the controversy. The Vietnam soldiers were frowned upon. I didnt know that back then. The Vietnam soldiers were called baby killers. I didnt know that back then. Maybe Richard felt ashamed at that time. I didnt know that back then.
Indeed sad Sundays now and then. Now because I do know how much these soldiers gave and continue to give now. Then, because we were sad that he wouldn’t let us be proud of his service. I don’t ask, but will listen when he is ready to talk……..
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