Episode 108: 1965-06-30 | His Shoes

In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill writes to Suzie on June 30, 1965, from Da Nang, exhausted from a grueling work schedule that has him flying from dawn until after dark. Though short and weary, his letter offers updates on family finances and hints at a possible return to Vinh Long by early July. What stands out most, however, is the contrast between the simplicity of this note and the deeper legacy Popi left behind—a legacy we explore through a eulogy written by his son, Bruce. In a heartfelt reading of that eulogy, we travel through the winding roads of Popi’s extraordinary life: from South Georgia farms to the skies over Vietnam, to tuna boats, emergency landings, and prison in New Guinea. But this story doesn’t shy away from the harder truths—his long struggle with alcoholism, the emotional distance it created, and the deep impact his war experiences had on his role as a father. It’s a rare, raw, and generous moment of reflection that captures not only the complexity of Popi’s life but also the generational ripple effects of combat trauma and silence. What’s Covered: A tired but hopeful letter from Bill during his final days in Da Nang A full reading of the eulogy delivered at Popi’s celebration of life Reflections on Vietnam, trauma, and the burden of memory The journey of a son trying to understand his father Questions left unanswered and stories still unfolding 📷 Featured Photo: A medevac helicopter belonging to the 114th Aviation Company—a reminder of the most hopeful image we hold of Popi: not just as a pilot, but as someone who saved lives. 🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe! I’ll be posting new episodes regularly, sharing letters and stories from exactly 60 years ago, as written by my grandfather. Follow Dearest Suzie on social media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/ X: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast 📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at [email protected] — I’d love to hear from you! VietnamWar #Medevac #HelicopterPilot #Eulogy #VeteranStories #FamilyHistory #WarLetters #InheritTheStories #OralHistory #MemoryAndMyth #114thAviation #CombatTrauma #DearestSuzie