Episode 3: Catawba County Vietnam Veterans: In Their Own Words with Jerry Smallbear

In this episode of the Historical Association of Catawba County Podcast, Catawba County Vietnam Veterans: In Their Own Words, Jerry Smallbear shares his deeply personal story of being drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. A native of Newton, North Carolina, Jerry reflects on basic training at Fort Bragg, leadership training at Fort Benning, and his service in Vietnam with the 52nd Infantry Regiment. He speaks candidly about fear, combat, loss, and the lifelong impact of war, including the challenges of returning home and living with chronic PTSD. Jerry’s account is a powerful and honest reminder that the effects of war do not end when a veteran comes home. Thank you for supporting the Historical Association of Catawba County's efforts to protect our shared heritage. Our mission is the preservation and interpretation of the stories, objects and places that document the rich heritage of Catawba County and its role in the development of the Western Piedmont of North Carolina. As an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Association is funded primarily by individual donors. National foundations, periodic grant awards, and local municipalities also contribute to the daily financial operations of the Association. For over 80 years, the Historical Association of Catawba County has preserved the objects, stories, and places that matter most to Catawbans. We invite you to become a member of the HACC.