From Vietnam to Ministry | Hattiesburg News

Randall O’Brien, a Mississippi native who felt he grew up in Vietnam despite being born in McComb, shares the raw, unforgettable truths of his time with the 101st Airborne — from body bags on C-130s to his first night under fire and a devastating “Dear John” letter. A Bronze Star recipient, he later channeled his experiences into academia and ministry, earning a Yale Divinity doctorate, becoming a Southern Baptist leader, and serving as president of Carson-Newman University. His most moving act? Presenting his medal to Brenda Travis, the teen civil rights activist he admired — a gesture that speaks to his enduring compassion. This memoir isn’t just history; it’s a haunting, human portrait of war’s lasting scars and the quiet strength of a life devoted to service, faith, and healing. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/f2b57fb45eefa8f6