Episode 7: Catawba County Vietnam Veterans: In Their Own Words with Ralph Stallings

In this episode of the Historical Association of Catawba County Podcast, Catawba County Vietnam Veterans: In Their Own Words, Ralph Stallings shares his story of being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1971 and serving in Vietnam at just 19 years old. Ralph reflects on basic training at Fort Jackson, radio school, and the shock of arriving in a war zone that looked far different from what he had imagined. He recalls serving alongside South Vietnamese forces, the confusion and danger of combat restrictions, the daily realities of survival, and the difficult transition back home. Told with honesty, humor, and vivid detail, Ralph’s story offers a personal look at service, uncertainty, and the lasting perspective that came from Vietnam 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. #VietnamVeteran #VietnamWarHistory #VeteranStories #OralHistory #ArmyVeteran #USArmy #MilitaryHistory #CatawbaCountyHistory #LocalHistory #VeteransVoices #FreedomIsNotFree #HistoricalAssociationOfCatawbaCounty