Support the channel by subscribing. Watch more aviation videos and learn more about American pilots on our channel at: ruclips.net/video/wWFOOJv0M4c/видео.html "The Gift", for example, is an amazing story of a great American hero and aviator. More at: www.youtube.com/@Dronescapes Exclusive videos courtesy of our partners at Sleeping Dog Productions: air2airtv.com/ A big thank you to both Jon Tennyson and Scott Guyette!
@@drivenmad7676 thank you for taking the time to watch it. If you liked it, there are some more interviews and testimonies from Veterans and Heroes in this playlist: ruclips.net/video/wWFOOJv0M4c/видео.html If you have never watched, for example, "The Gift", I strongly suggest you to do so! Have a great day!
To be honest considering American pilots were dropping napalm and killing thousands of civilians in North Vietnam I personally think they did not treat Dewey too bad majority of the time.
@@johndean4765 Well, I the interview, he told us what he was dropping. But yes, many America pilots were dropping napalm. At least I didn't hear him say it. If he did, I apologize for my oversights.
Major Waddell, I wore your MIA bracelet from about 1970 until the end of the war, while in High School. I happened upon this RUclips and am very happy. I did not know your story or what happened to you. I have been to the Vietnam memorial in DC and saw that you were not on the wall. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. I am so glad you survived and hope you are doing well! Sincerely, JIM
I sure do remember those bracelets. I wore it for so long. But I don’t remember the name. The thing was brazed back together so many times. Do you remember what the price was seems like a couple of bucks. And a promise not to take it off till they came home.
I love the way u Americans ,4 the most part, respect ur service people. And rightly so. They seem 2 have caught on in the UK now and its a better environment 4 ex service people.
Sincerely thank you for your service. I sobbed with your story, my brother was injured walking point and then killed during his removal from the site when the helicopter was blown up, August 21,1967 right after your capture, he was 19 years old, he was a high school state wrestling champion and earned a perfect infantry training score. My husband died from Agent Orange related illness. He was removed from Vietnam, burn injuries, but was found to be highly toxic and sent to Korea. We had three children, all with renal failure, all of them transplanted with their first between 9 and 20 years old. no definitive answers to date but we are positive it's all connected. Now there's been 6 kidney transplants between them and one waiting for a liver and kidney. I'll never forget those soldiers walking toward the barn to tell us my brother was dead, I was 16 and hid behind the milk tank, but it didn't stop the news.
I’m so sorry for your loss of your brother and your husband being exposed to Agent Orange. And your kids having such terrible problems from it. My cousin died from its effects much later after being in Viet Nam. War is a horrible thing especially since we are commanded to love our neighbor.🙏🏽
What an amazing man! My sister and husband live in Bremen, GA. I live in Douglasville, GA. I didn't know that such a hero lived so close. I am sending a link to this video to my sister who lives in Bremen. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. I am proud of our Vietnam Veterans. Several of my older cousins served on the front lines. They all got to come home but were changed forever from their experiences. You are a tremendous blessing and inspiration. My husband, Johnny, just passed away on July 15, 2023 and in a surprising way, I was touched by your story and gained hope and strength in what I am going through. That small light you saw that brought you peace and comfort at the beginning of your captivity and which helped you endure almost 6 years as a POW, gave me hope that I can endure what is ahead for me after losing my husband of 44 years and 9 months. The smallest whisper can sustain. Thank you!
On behalf of my brother, a Vietnam Marine vet who served two tours in some ugly places, I thank you for your service. They May have held you but they didn’t break you as is evident by the twinkle in your eye and the way you recount your stories. I know they say World War II had the greatest generation and maybe I’m biased but I think the Korean and Vietnam War generations were pretty effing awesome as well.
Semper Fi brother! As I said, Vietnam Veterans hold a dear and special place in my heart. As a sister Marine, thank you for your service. You salty dogs give me inspiration.
I have a brother inlaw,whom I've ne or met.he is still missing in action from the Korean war.saw a picture of him.very good looking.what a loss.war is cruel.
Our 4th grade teacher told us of her husband a Navy Pilot being shot down and a POW. Mrs. Morgan from Porterdale Ga. This was around 1966. She Loved him and wanted us to know about him. She was a wonderful Lady. Thanks for your service.
Awesome testimony. My uncle was shot down in 1964 fling a F-101 doing recognizance photos. He was a prisoner. He never came home. Can't imagine being a prisoner of war. My father in law was in WWII and had an experience behind German lines with an angel pointing how to get out of enemy territory. I believe it was because of his wife's prayers. I love hearing these stories. Makes you thankful for what you have.
What a privilege to hear first hand the story of a brave and incredibly strong man who endured a 6-year nightmare far beyond the conception of most people. His ability to calmly articulate his experience and to accept the pain of separation from family, the death of his father and the desertion of his wife is exceptional. I find it extremely ironic that his captors had more compassion for him, by withholding the existence of his wife's divorce papers, than she or the miserable excuse for a human being who would represent someone whose spouse was a prisoner of war.
Brilliant interview. What an extraordinary experience this man has had. I was really struck by the advice Maj. Waddell received "accept that you are here and make the most of it" and how he seems to have lived by it.
My family was at Maxwell AFB in ‘72 when many POWs out processed there. We hosted family friend Col Carl Crumpler who returned after five years in the Hanoi Hilton. He was shot down in an F-4D. He flew F-86s with my dad who was now in War college at Maxwell at the time. I saw Col Crumpler’s POW pajamas and sandals made from truck tires. He still had scares on his ankles from leg shackles. Col Crumpler was a great American like all our POWs. RIP Sir.
Thank You Sir, from an USAF Veteran with both my father also career Airman and my youngest son currently in boot /bmts as I write this. Thank you for your sacrifice and for your service to our nation. My sons and daughter have been raised as was I - to be of America first, land unlike. Any other, where because of generations of heroes like yourself, we’re still in the land of the free and home of the bravest. We have major issues with much of our peoples mindsets and priorities, but as we all see, the world is still proving by continuing to come here, we also a land blessed by Almighty G-D. G-D Bless and keep you safe and healthy!
As a Former US Marine 1973 - 1984, Thank you, to you Also, I Grew up in Real Quick in The Marines, And Even Faster, in Nam, I still at times Remember, and can Smell it,, It Took me 32- Years, to get my 100%, I've been on" Phych Wards," and on Phych Meds , For many Years, Until, I've Decided To Stop Taking them !!!, ( I Really Started to see, the Colors in the Pictures,) I GOT Better, And Realize, I did a Service to this Country, "Without a Hero's Welcome," And Had to deal with " Being Back in The World,".... ( Hard But Fair, " Maybe, " ) I'm gonna cut this short, Because alot is starting to come Back to me, That I tried to Put away in my Head, But THANK YOU, G.C.WILLIANS , USMC , 1973 - 1984 TODAY, JULY 11, 2023.
I was so touched by your story..You are such a courageous man, making little of the torture you suffered..like so many of your fellow prisoners of war..How you survived is testament to your belief that you would be freed one day, and your sheer bravery. I have read many other accounts of POW's in Vietnam..and have never failed to be moved. God bless you Sir, and all who served in that war..
@@conzmoleman Perhaps you did not study history much. The South Vietnamese asked someone to come and rescue them from the Russian, and Chinese supplied Communist North Vietnamese. Were you happy when the Communists took over and thousands of boat people started risking their lives to get the heck out of Nam? I've talked to them. Some were shot on their way out. This was supposed to be a rescue mission despite what you were told.
War means murdering innocent human lives, nothing to "preserve or be proud of". Orange agent chemical murdering innocent children, elderly, pregnant women..and their grandchildren are still affected by the deadly chemical weapon. Sick!
I'm very touched by your strength both physically and emotionally/mentally. Thank you for being someone I'm honored to know at least in your story, and would be honored to know you in person I'm sure. The ability you have to speak so candidly and clearly is GREATLY appreciated.
Glad I listened to his story. As a helicopter jockey in Vietnam, I experienced the same feelings about the people there and felt that they liked us. God was surely watching over him and I give thanks to the Lord. I would love to me him and understand that peace, even today. It sustains me! I hated no one and was just doing my job to support the best, who fought the war on the ground.
Mr. Waddell, you are an inspiration Sir. I'm sorry you've had to endure so much, and sincerely thank you for your service to our country. God bless you.
Sir, your story is amazing. It looks like your sense of humor helped you through not only the prison camps but also the disappointments of things that happened after release. I am truly amazed at individuals such as yourself, true patriots. I am humbled. Best, R. Yates, COL, ret. US Army
Thanks for doing the interview with Mr Waddell. I have so much respect for him. Men like him is who made this country great. Love the parts where he resisted his captors requests in almost a flippant, comical way. Showed so much courage and strength. Thank you Mr Waddell.
BREAKING NEWS ALERT !!! This man is a true hero, not some football or sports player but this man. Men like this are few and far in between. Most Americans today look at sports figures, famous musicians or famous rappers as a hero and they are not even close. As a matter of fact they probably couldn’t even carry this man’s boots much less wear them. SIR GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
A hero? Dropping bombs on rice farmers who only wanted all foreign armies to leave their country ? Would you fight an occupying army from a much more powerful country ?
@@jimragan9432 were you in Vietnam? There were 1000 fraggings, 30% heroin use in some units 2% volunteered for a 2nd your. Would you say that the army fully supported the Vietnsm war. I mean in reality, not in the movies
This was an intensely moving story. Dewey's strength can hardly be measured. To say that I found this to be inspirational is an understatement. I'm beside myself.
It is just so hard to believe men like Dewey exist. They are like real life Marvel Characters. They are so other worldly to me. I Love Them All and Thanks Them for Their Service in do many ways.
He was a professional pilot in a war. He took and obeyed orders. What good did his service do and what good did his country do in Vietnam expect to support an oppressive regime?
Great interview that leaves me speechless . You have such immense courage and dedication to survive . Thank you for your service. You are appreciated .
Thank you DroneScape for bringing Mr. Waddell's story to the public. He is indeed a patriot whose service needs to be recognized and whose wisdom needs to be shared. I feel fortunate to have come across your channel. Keep up the good work!
I learned a lot from this man's story. He's a war hero. It's just really cold blooded that his wife didn't love him enough to even write him two full letters during his years of captivity,then to top it off she divorces him (like becoming a prisoner was his fault somehow). He shows much class.
🎯 This great man endured hell and the woman that had the honor and privilege to be his wife, just couldn’t keep her filthy legs closed while her husband was being physically and psychologically tortured. Too much of a sacrifice for her 🙄. She doesn’t deserve the honor of even washing his dirty socks. What’s more is he likely had to pay her for years afterwards. To endure the hell he did over there, while being fairly certain your wife is being filled by another man, only to finally come home and confirm it….is a torment that I can’t even begin to fathom. His ex wife rates somewhere between: that film on the roof of your mouth when you wake up, and bile. Absolutely sickening.
Yeah..didn't even get a dear John Letter..any woman stupid enough To leave a guy like that wasn't any.good anyway. So no loss There...an excellent and brave man A real honest to goodness man.. Good looking and intelligent... There are plenty of women out.there Who would be honored to be with a man like that..and never leave Stand by you all the way to the end .
@@sirstephen9825 What is a "Jody" ? (I don't know why people now days have to invent all the silly "code words" for every single thing ?) Just write it out normally please.
I thoroughly enjoyed your interview and comments about your time as a “POW” in Viet Nam. The war was horrible, so many lives lost, suffering of the people, the prisoners ……..! I am so very thankful for your service and bravery! My brother was in the Viet Nam war also, in the Air Force, but he was an outstanding mechanic and his job was to repair the embattled Huey’s when they came in on fire etc! When there were no copters, he and the team built and repaired the runways! He won’t talk about the war, that’s why I enjoyed your words! Thank You sir for your service to your country! When my brother got off the train in West Palm Beach Florida, he proudly wore his uniform - but people at the train station spit on him! It was a very unpopular war! Thank You 🙏! Lois
I served with and learned to fly from Vietnam veterans. This is a great interview. Pat Epps is a great guy too. I feel like Dewey was an instructor for private and instrument writtens in the mid to late 80s on weekend ground school. I saw he and his wife on the train at the Atlanta airport in the last few years, but could not place him until later, it had been over 30 years. Maybe I am mistaken, memories fade with age.
An amazing story told by a man who embodies the American ideals of duty, honor and country. God bless Col. Waddell and all the men and women who served in SE Asia. I had the privilege of serving with quite a few Vietnam veterans when I was in the Air Force in the mid 1980's. Our squadron's chief EWO, (Electronic Warfare Officer) was a gentleman who'd served in Vietnam flying the Wild Weasel F105. His stories were amazing He was a great officer, patriot and friend. Please remember these brave men and never forget their service and sacrifice to our great nation.
These guys and especially Major Waddell are what makes this country great. I’m sad to see him have to question our current government. He is a real hero and our country should live up to him as he has lived up to it.
Really excellent video. Make no mistake... the minute a man straps into a flight suit and points a 1960s aircraft toward hostile territory in the service of country... that man is a hero. Thank you for your service Mr. Dewey Waddell. Having nothing to do with politics and all to do with the love of my wife of the last 45 years who is Vietnamese I have been living in Vietnam nearly 30 years with her after moving from the New York area. We live in Saigon but know Hanoi well. Just being in a cell in Hanoi in the brutally hot humid summers or the brutally damp cold winter would be enough to break most men. But living in the time of peace and with many dear friends from both north and south I have had a very good life here but share the exact same concerns for America as Dewey yet with faith like him that the country will work things out. Again.... thank you for your service! Ps... My father was a WWII POW at Stalagluft IV and later Stalag XI-B 1944-45 after air crew service on a B24 lost to flak and so I grew up with a greater understanding than most about what it means to be a POW.
Mr Dewey, I sat spell bound in listening to your story & selute you indeed sir. I've been shot two times myself in the Angola war of 1978 - so I know partially what you went through. It is amazing your strenght to survive through those hard times & you have taught me a fee lessons to remember for the future. There is no doubt in my mind that it was God that showed you that light as the bible speaks in Acts 9:3. After I was shot & busy dying because of losing to much blood (back & head), I prayed this simple prayer on the operation table while feeling the dr stiching me up: 'Lord Jesus, thank you for sparing my life. Will you please forgive me my sins & come into my heart as Revelation 3:20 says. Make me your child & write my name in your book. Amen. If you haven't done so yet, will you please do that right now sir. God bless you sir - hope to meet you in heaven one day. Frans, South Africa.
Why do you address your comment as if the fellow being interviewed is personally reading it ? This is not Dewey's account and he probably doesn't watch an interview with himself and certainly isn't going to reply to comments
@PlayerToBeNamedLater1973 this is not the only comment on this thread addressed to Col. Weddell, why single out this one? In fact why did you bother to write such a hostile tone? It doesn't fit in with the OP or the comments which are respectful.
@Syd McCreath Oh, bless, have you not heard about ‘heavenly thoughts and prayers? I see from ‘your profile that you've left 4 other similar disrespectful, troll comments! May your God bless you.
Considering he posted a flag of our current allies whom have fought side by side with our military in Afghanistan not to long ago after 9/11 I don't think it's absurd that he might respect this man and that he choose to service his country. The cuz part at the end is strange choice of words but it's still reliable enough in any lense to respect someone brave whom did a difficult thing for their own people
First, Mr Waddell, thank you very much for your service. I can’t express the amount of gratitude that I have for your service. I couldn’t believe my ears when I heard you say that after a tough mission, you received a shot of Old Overholt whiskey. As early as I can remember growing up, Old Overholt rye whiskey was one of my dad’s favorite whiskeys.
@Mike Raffphone He was performing his duty. We like or hate soldiers depending on which side we are. If they invaded you, I am sure you would love them. War is ugly, right or wrong, but this soldier was just performing his duty.
I too was at Takhli Febuary 1967 to Febuay 1968. Handled flight rcords and reports of the daily missions. When a pilot was shot down or MIA I pulled his records. You never foget when they don't come back. I'm so happy to know you made it back.
Thank you for your service. I am a Vietnam Veteran and served on the USS Ranger. We had a pilot that escaped from a Vietnam Prison Camp. He was the first navy pilot to escape from POW Camp. There is a youtube video named Lil Dengler Learns to Fly.
Dewey is a good courageous man and did well for the USA. Can't imagine what he went through. This is the type of people the USA needs again. Thanks Dewey for your service, it can never be repaid with money it is above and beyond. I sure hope the USA and the world comes back to better times. I fear for my grandchildren and children. May you have peace the rest of your life Dewey.
THANK you for your time of service in Vietnam in the 1960s era I've heard many stories of wars of the Vietnam war and have 2 adopted brothers my parents adopted from South Vietnam who came and lived with our family in the 1970s ,,, anyways honey ❤️ again thank you for your service during that time and GOD bless you and your family and friends and glad you are back home safe and sound , thanks for sharing your story and Blessings to you
Dewey and his army were invaders in another country and deserved to be shot. How are they heroes for using Agent Orange that is resulting in deformed births even now? Killing civilians and calling Vietnamese commies in their own country?
I lived in Bremen Ga. for over 20 years and now live in Cedartown, Ga.(just north). I am a veteran, my father served in Vietnam and my son and his wife are former military. All U.S.A.F. Your story upset me on so many levels. You are a very strong and devoted U.S soldier and citizen. I thank you more than I can say for your service. I will pray for your ex-wife's soul. Hopefully God can forgive her for divorcing a husband that she knew that was a U.S. P.OW. and divorced him anyway. May God have mercy on her soul.
Sir, thank you for your service. I'm so sorry you spent time as a POW, but I'm so happy you got home. You are an American hero . I was in 2nd grade, and 2 family members went to Vietnam , I was so happy when they got home . Thank you again.
I feel so angry for the way his "wife" treated him. While he doesn't seem to harbor animosity, I wouldn't blame him at all for being angry. God Bless and protect this man. He is a Good man.
I watched this video before and was held captive by his story. Southerners know how to captivate an audience with storytelling. Thank you for your service Mr. Waddell. Loved listening to you.
A fascinating interview, and I will watch this again. Thank you Dewey for your service, from another Vet, serving during the Vietnam conflict. God Bless and your entire family.
I am in tears for his losses and for his last words. Thank you for your service and for taking the time to tell your story, you Sir are a hero and inspiration to us all.
Thank you had to be the most profound interview I’ve heard. Thank you Dewey for your service, in a horrible situation as POW. You stayed strong …the light you saw held you up …your character shines. I pray we all see America back on track as it should be soon.
Major Waddell, you sir are a wonderful human being. Our country will be forever beholden to you for your sacrifices for America! God Bless you Sir! From a American soldier, served Vietnam, 1967/68.
Dewey Waddell is embodies in his heart and soul everything that the USA needs in a human being. I'm hoping he does, at some point, write his Autobiography.
My uncle was friends with a older man up in Alaska back in the 90s. My uncle said this man. Shortly before he passed away claimed to have been a pow in Vietnam from 1966 to 1981. He was a private contractor. He claims on his release he was with a group of air force people 6 of them.
Mr Waddell, Thank you for your service & your sacrifice. Listening to your story was incredibly moving and captivating! I am thankful you made it home to tell it. Wishing you all the very best Sir
Thank you Mr. Waddell, this country should never forget you, your service and your dedication to support this country in all it's ways! Without men like you, this country will fail, politicians will never win any wars, but they can cause us to lose so much more. I have gotten to live my nearly 70 years in this country as a free man, and it's only because of men like you that made it possible. My hero since 1964 has been Staff Sargent Tommy L. Boring, my Uncle who completed 3-tours in Vietnam. I will always be grateful for you all!
1:05:13 I can't even imagine how that affected him. That has to be one of the most painful things to endure and even worse than his wife divorcing him. Even without being in his shoes and enduring what he was, I can't even imagine how I'd feel if I received a birthday card from my parents and it was only signed by my mother, making it fairly clear that my father had passed. I don't know if I could keep my head together with all of that. He's obviously a brave man, but that was yet another situation that also showed how strong he is and has been. Wow!
At least he was treated as humanely as it could be by his capturer, given the situation…. While in a different scenario, the majority of VCs that got captured by the Americans in South VN would have their finger nails pulled out or even their fingers clipped, for refusing to talk
Sir thankyou for taking the time to share your story with us. My dad and husband were both there while you were. You deserve to be honored 1 by being willing to serve and 2 you came home to a country that called you names. I want to say THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 I was so proud of my daddy and all that served and prayed for the MIA/POWs all the time. I am so glad that God sent you that light that gave you peace.❤❤❤
I was just a young girl during the Vietnam war. Thank you for your service and your story. It helps me to better understand. I think our young people are going to help right this country. I really do.
Cool to see another Georgia nam vet my great uncle served 2 tour's but sadly died before these guys got there deserved welcome home. Think you for your service welcome home.
Mr Waddell, it’s been an honor to have the privilege of walking down that road of memories with you. However limited my exposure was believe it’s moved me and caused a reevaluation of what I see important. Thank you for your service and your willingness to share.
Thank you for your service sir!! My uncle served in Vietnam. I was able to attend his military funeral and it was so intense and moving. He never talked to any of us about the events that took place in Vietnam. 🙏💔🙏 he was just a kid right out of high school.
Thank you sir for suffered service during this time in your young life. The last words are the most profound in hoping that there are still young men willing to step up and defend America as many of us are witness to a sickness in society today that is frightening for the peaceful future of our country. God Bless
In 2003 I was asked to go on a volunteer medical mission in Hanoi for three weeks. I struggled with the decision because I didn't want to be a "Hanoi Jane." I am of your generation. Ultimately, I did go. We worked in a hospital just across the street from Hoa Lo and of course we went into the prison to see where "our guys" had been held and tortured. It has been sanitized and is open as a museum. Even so, it was appalling. The dark cells, stagnant hot and humid air, concrete floor, that larger concrete area with metal restraints set into the floor; I have heard that Sam Johnson was immobilized there so long that his ankles had swollen around the restraints. Not one of us left that place dry eyed. I am in awe of the courage and strength that you and your fellows demonstrated. I'm very glad you made it back and saddened by those who didn't. Communism has done those people no favors. Our patients lived in abject poverty, barely a subsistence. We were mobbed by people desperate for medical help from we Americans. It is a beautiful, lush country but so, so sad. Thank you for your service and thank for sharing your story.
Incredible story! I couldn’t imagine what he went through! A True hero and gentleman, the quality of which is very rare in today’s military. Thank you for your service and sharing your story!
My father was a Navy pilot and squadron commander. Shot down in 1967 . He was promoted to Captain while MIA. Captain Charles L Putnam USN , flew off the Kitty Hawk, squadron 13 CO. He was shot down in 1967. We did not what happened to him for many years. We where told his copilot was rescued by helicopter but they could not get to my father. The F4 pilots at the scene said they saw his parachute open. We knew nothing for twenty years. His remains where found and he is buried at Arlington . Twenty years he was MIA . I enjoy listening to your story. I am a farmer in Bainbridge Georgia. My father was lost in March 1967.
Thank you sir for your service , bravery and sacrifice. It bothers me your wife knew you were alive and suffering in a POW camp and filed for divorce. I have never heard of that before. Was it common? That must have been a real kick in stomach. I'm so glad you felt eternal peace and have lived a life worth living.
Although not in POW camps, when I was deployed in Iraq several years ago, a lot of guys in my unit had the same fate, wives divorced them while on deployment because they weren't able to represent themselves so the divorce went through without any input from them, whatever the wife said, she got...mostly the $$$$, it was easy free money to the wives as they got pretty much everything the guys earned, many faced drained bank accounts, came home to being homeless, if they had kids, the kids were of course brainwashed into daddy don't love you or want you, etc. You name it, it happened.
@@wildbill23c They pretty much get what the hell they want anyhow with the husband sitting right there in court. My nephew told me the judge flat told him he didn’t want to hear it. It’s a woman’s world. Joke used to be the’ve got half the money and all the pu$$y, now they’ve got all the money and all the pu$$y.
At the end there, he was very reserved about talking about the specifics of our societal degradation. I would love for the current generation to have heard those thoughts. This man is a giant among men.
Thankyou for your amazing service im a 60 yr old woman who remembers this war .I had a hairsalon with Cambodian man who came over I 1980 as a 15 yr old he lived through the killing fields and a war camp his few stories he shared were awful.
I’ve heard a lot of people talk about their experiences in Vietnam of course, but this is the best I’ve heard. In fact the eternal peace experience, I’ve had all my life, and even before I went to Vietnam, but in 1974, I had a tremendous spiritual awakening that is salvation, my spirit was resurrected from the dead and it gave me a knowing of eternal peace that’s hard to explain.
Yesterday was the 50th anniversary of the sweet release of another AF POW Colonel Robert F. Wagonner. POW from 1966-73. We celebrated him yet again with his wife Vickie with many toasts at the bar at VFW Post 8988 in Bishop, Ca. The post was renamed in his honor this last Veterans Day.
I was a draftee in the USAF, went to OTS at Lackland AFB. Than OTS and became a Communications officer running the navaids maintenance at Richards Gebaur AFB. Then I was assigned to monitoring contracts and operations of the Canadian Northeast Wideband System. Lotsa Canadian to Iceland trips via peaceful flights. Most of my 5.5 years of service was during and after the Vietnam War, but I really had no knowledge of the actual types of Vietnam duty you performed. Again, I thank you for your service and your candid sharing of the experience.
I want to thank Mr. Dewey for sharing his story. I know it takes a lot of courage to open up and talk about things that were and are extremely painful to us. As Dewey spoke about what he did post ejection I couldn’t help but think of the U.S. Aircrewman Training and S.E.R.E. School I had went through as a young man in the U.S. Navy. Those instructors do their best to train and educate us in the art of survival, evading, resistance and escaping but during war time with a determined and unrestrained enemy things are more than likely expected to not go as planned. A 2nd cousin of mine William Cordero was a U.S.A.F. Navigator who was shot down over Loas May 22, 1965. His name appears on the Vietnam Wall and on Memorials in my county as being one of the first to be K.I.A. I was injured overseas on March 2, 1989. I will never forget that day and am extremely grateful to be alive today, have my health, children a wife and a roof over my head. I can openly and honestly say that without question if it were not for the courage and strength of men like Mr. Dewey Waddell to tell their story I would not be open to talk about my story and move forward. Men like this who who answered the call to duty, volunteered their time to something greater then themselves, struggled along the way through an extremely painful experience to tell their story today is amazing and a testament to who I’d like to emulate. It’s sad to hear today that there are so many young people in our country who feel the government owes them something. This country owes us nothing but maybe an opportunity to do better. It’s up to each individual to sacrifice their own time and be of service either local, state or federal government or with their community some how. I’ve learned it’s definitely better to give than to receive! I salute you! 🙏🇺🇸✌🏽
POPS! I LOVE YOU TO HELL AND BACK!💜 You are not my blood! Thank you for compassion, love,and NEVER judged me! Your still here by my side. You call me kid I call you POPS! THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE ! THERE IS NOT ENOUGH WORDS TO THANKYOU.
I try to understand what the wives back home were thinking but I have heard too many stories of betrayal to think this was not a common event. Thank you for your service and telling your story.
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A big thank you to both Jon Tennyson and Scott Guyette!
I didn't plan on watching the entire interview 1:14:15 minutes later.
@@drivenmad7676 thank you for taking the time to watch it. If you liked it, there are some more interviews and testimonies from Veterans and Heroes in this playlist: ruclips.net/video/wWFOOJv0M4c/видео.html If you have never watched, for example, "The Gift", I strongly suggest you to do so! Have a great day!
I just read last night he had died in March of 2022 so now I don't know what to believe
To be honest considering American pilots were dropping napalm and killing thousands of civilians in North Vietnam I personally think they did not treat Dewey too bad majority of the time.
@@johndean4765 Well, I the interview, he told us what he was dropping. But yes, many America pilots were dropping napalm. At least I didn't hear him say it. If he did, I apologize for my oversights.
Major Waddell, I wore your MIA bracelet from about 1970 until the end of the war, while in High School. I happened upon this RUclips and am very happy. I did not know your story or what happened to you. I have been to the Vietnam memorial in DC and saw that you were not on the wall. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. I am so glad you survived and hope you are doing well! Sincerely, JIM
🙏❤
I sure do remember those bracelets. I wore it for so long. But I don’t remember the name. The thing was brazed back together so many times. Do you remember what the price was seems like a couple of bucks. And a promise not to take it off till they came home.
WOW thanks for sharing
@@philipbalestrieri870 you are very welcome
I love the way u Americans ,4 the most part, respect ur service people. And rightly so. They seem 2 have caught on in the UK now and its a better environment 4 ex service people.
Sincerely thank you for your service. I sobbed with your story, my brother was injured walking point and then killed during his removal from the site when the helicopter was blown up, August 21,1967 right after your capture, he was 19 years old, he was a high school state wrestling champion and earned a perfect infantry training score. My husband died from Agent Orange related illness. He was removed from Vietnam, burn injuries, but was found to be highly toxic and sent to Korea. We had three children, all with renal failure, all of them transplanted with their first between 9 and 20 years old. no definitive answers to date but we are positive it's all connected. Now there's been 6 kidney transplants between them and one waiting for a liver and kidney. I'll never forget those soldiers walking toward the barn to tell us my brother was dead, I was 16 and hid behind the milk tank, but it didn't stop the news.
I’m so sorry for your loss of your brother and your husband being exposed to Agent Orange. And your kids having such terrible problems from it. My cousin died from its effects much later after being in Viet Nam. War is a horrible thing especially since we are commanded to love our neighbor.🙏🏽
Condolences , Bless you and your family.
So very sorry. If there is a heaven you will all be there.
Awwww, I'm soooo sorry
Praying for your family. I am so very sorry.
I am proud of you. Your service to me and America is priceless. It was an honor to listen to you.
👍👍👍🙏
What an amazing man! My sister and husband live in Bremen, GA. I live in Douglasville, GA. I didn't know that such a hero lived so close. I am sending a link to this video to my sister who lives in Bremen. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. I am proud of our Vietnam Veterans. Several of my older cousins served on the front lines. They all got to come home but were changed forever from their experiences. You are a tremendous blessing and inspiration. My husband, Johnny, just passed away on July 15, 2023 and in a surprising way, I was touched by your story and gained hope and strength in what I am going through. That small light you saw that brought you peace and comfort at the beginning of your captivity and which helped you endure almost 6 years as a POW, gave me hope that I can endure what is ahead for me after losing my husband of 44 years and 9 months. The smallest whisper can sustain. Thank you!
On behalf of my brother, a Vietnam Marine vet who served two tours in some ugly places, I thank you for your service. They May have held you but they didn’t break you as is evident by the twinkle in your eye and the way you recount your stories.
I know they say World War II had the greatest generation and maybe I’m biased but I think the Korean and Vietnam War generations were pretty effing awesome as well.
He's so admirable by his demeanor. That smile says it all. His story is incredibly brave. His pride is well deserved.
Semper Fi brother! As I said, Vietnam Veterans hold a dear and special place in my heart. As a sister Marine, thank you for your service. You salty dogs give me inspiration.
I agree!! My Dad was a Korean War veteran. Lost him in August 2022.
I have a brother inlaw,whom I've ne or met.he is still missing in action from the Korean war.saw a picture of him.very good looking.what a loss.war is cruel.
@@cajuncraftysue My condolecnces
Our 4th grade teacher told us of her husband a Navy Pilot being shot down and a POW. Mrs. Morgan from Porterdale Ga. This was around 1966. She Loved him and wanted us to know about him. She was a wonderful Lady. Thanks for your service.
God Bless them
My uncle same thing in 1966
Col Don Wood.
Also she was loyal to her husband 👍
Awesome testimony. My uncle was shot down in 1964 fling a F-101 doing recognizance photos. He was a prisoner. He never came home. Can't imagine being a prisoner of war. My father in law was in WWII and had an experience behind German lines with an angel pointing how to get out of enemy territory. I believe it was because of his wife's prayers. I love hearing these stories. Makes you thankful for what you have.
👍❤🇺🇸 Sorry for your loss Ray, and thank you for sharing your memories.
Awesome story. !
I came here just for the my dad and my uncle stories
I believe that, prayers help 🙏
What a privilege to hear first hand the story of a brave and incredibly strong man who endured a 6-year nightmare far beyond the conception of most people. His ability to calmly articulate his experience and to accept the pain of separation from family, the death of his father and the desertion of his wife is exceptional. I find it extremely ironic that his captors had more compassion for him, by withholding the existence of his wife's divorce papers, than she or the miserable excuse for a human being who would represent someone whose spouse was a prisoner of war.
Brilliant interview. What an extraordinary experience this man has had. I was really struck by the advice Maj. Waddell received "accept that you are here and make the most of it" and how he seems to have lived by it.
How can you not love this man?!! Nothing but admiration and respect for all our warriors! God Bless!
I admire this man greatly but how was he our warrior?? Warring for what? You believe whatever narrative the elite spin?
No of
Thank you.
My family was at Maxwell AFB in ‘72 when many POWs out processed there. We hosted family friend Col Carl Crumpler who returned after five years in the Hanoi Hilton. He was shot down in an F-4D. He flew F-86s with my dad who was now in War college at Maxwell at the time. I saw Col Crumpler’s POW pajamas and sandals made from truck tires. He still had scares on his ankles from leg shackles. Col Crumpler was a great American like all our POWs. RIP Sir.
Thank You Sir, from an USAF Veteran with both my father also career Airman and my youngest son currently in boot /bmts as I write this. Thank you for your sacrifice and for your service to our nation. My sons and daughter have been raised as was I - to be of America first, land unlike. Any other, where because of generations of heroes like yourself, we’re still in the land of the free and home of the bravest. We have major issues with much of our peoples mindsets and priorities, but as we all see, the world is still proving by continuing to come here, we also a land blessed by Almighty G-D. G-D Bless and keep you safe and healthy!
As a Former US Marine 1973 - 1984,
Thank you, to you Also, I Grew up in Real Quick in The Marines, And Even Faster, in Nam, I still at times Remember, and can Smell it,,
It Took me 32- Years, to get my 100%, I've been on" Phych Wards," and on Phych Meds , For many Years, Until,
I've Decided To Stop Taking them !!!, ( I Really Started to see, the Colors in the Pictures,) I GOT Better,
And Realize, I did a Service to this Country, "Without a Hero's Welcome,"
And Had to deal with " Being Back in The World,".... ( Hard But Fair, " Maybe, " )
I'm gonna cut this short, Because alot is starting to come Back to me, That I tried to Put away in my Head, But
THANK YOU,
G.C.WILLIANS , USMC , 1973 - 1984
TODAY, JULY 11, 2023.
I'm glad you're here. The strength of you guys never cease to amaze me
Thank you for your service to our country. Brave heroes like yourself who have fought with their brothers are the backbone of America. God bless.
I was so touched by your story..You are such a courageous man, making little of the torture you suffered..like so many of your fellow prisoners of war..How you survived is testament to your belief that you would be freed one day, and your sheer bravery.
I have read many other accounts of POW's in Vietnam..and have never failed to be moved.
God bless you Sir, and all who served in that war..
I can't thank Dewey enough for sharing his story with us. This video will help preserve his history and legacy.
🙏
Oh, you know him personally??? Call him by his name. Col. or Major. Whatever his title is. Show some respect.
F105 Gattling Gun..
Afterburner... enter supersonic Acceleration Roar
@@conzmoleman Perhaps you did not study history much. The South Vietnamese asked someone to come and rescue them from the Russian, and Chinese supplied Communist North Vietnamese. Were you happy when the Communists took over and thousands of boat people started risking their lives to get the heck out of Nam? I've talked to them. Some were shot on their way out. This was supposed to be a rescue mission despite what you were told.
War means murdering innocent human lives, nothing to "preserve or be proud of". Orange agent chemical murdering innocent children, elderly, pregnant women..and their grandchildren are still affected by the deadly chemical weapon. Sick!
I'm very touched by your strength both physically and emotionally/mentally. Thank you for being someone I'm honored to know at least in your story, and would be honored to know you in person I'm sure. The ability you have to speak so candidly and clearly is GREATLY appreciated.
Glad I listened to his story. As a helicopter jockey in Vietnam, I experienced the same feelings about the people there and felt that they liked us. God was surely watching over him and I give thanks to the Lord. I would love to me him and understand that peace, even today. It sustains me! I hated no one and was just doing my job to support the best, who fought the war on the ground.
Mr. Waddell, you are an inspiration Sir. I'm sorry you've had to endure so much, and sincerely thank you for your service to our country. God bless you.
Well said
Sir, your story is amazing. It looks like your sense of humor helped you through not only the prison camps but also the disappointments of things that happened after release. I am truly amazed at individuals such as yourself, true patriots. I am humbled. Best, R. Yates, COL, ret. US Army
👍🙏🙏
Sir,
I was honored to view this video. You are a true American hero, patriot, and a wonderful human being.
Thank you.❤🙏
Thanks for doing the interview with Mr Waddell. I have so much respect for him. Men like him is who made this country great. Love the parts where he resisted his captors requests in almost a flippant, comical way. Showed so much courage and strength. Thank you Mr Waddell.
Thanks for watching and listening Gene
BREAKING NEWS ALERT !!!
This man is a true hero, not some football or sports player but this man. Men like this are few and far in between. Most Americans today look at sports figures, famous musicians or famous rappers as a hero and they are not even close. As a matter of fact they probably couldn’t even carry this man’s boots much less wear them.
SIR GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
No could have said it better!! Thank You Nathan!
Thank you, sir, for all your sacrifice and for others as well. I will shake your hand, sir, if I can.
A hero? Dropping bombs on rice farmers who only wanted all foreign armies to leave their country ? Would you fight an occupying army from a much more powerful country ?
@@jimragan9432 were you in Vietnam? There were 1000 fraggings, 30% heroin use in some units 2% volunteered for a 2nd your. Would you say that the army fully supported the Vietnsm war. I mean in reality, not in the movies
Amen. Every kid playing fake war video games in the comfort of their parents home should watch this.
This was an intensely moving story. Dewey's strength can hardly be measured. To say that I found this to be inspirational is an understatement. I'm beside myself.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and feelings about the video William
You don't call him by his first name. It's highly disrespectful. You refer to him by his rank be it Col., Major or what ever his disposition is.
It is just so hard to believe men like Dewey exist. They are like real life Marvel Characters. They are so other worldly to me. I Love Them All and Thanks Them for Their Service in do many ways.
Thank you for your service and your sacrifice. It was an honor to hear your story. You sir are an American hero!
❤
He was a professional pilot in a war.
He took and obeyed orders.
What good did his service do and what good did his country do in Vietnam expect to support an oppressive regime?
Thank you for your service and sacrifice, sir. You deserve a whole lot of respect.
Great interview that leaves me speechless . You have such immense courage and dedication to survive . Thank you for your service. You are appreciated .
Thank you DroneScape for bringing Mr. Waddell's story to the public. He is indeed a patriot whose service needs to be recognized and whose wisdom needs to be shared. I feel fortunate to have come across your channel. Keep up the good work!
Thank you
I learned a lot from this man's story. He's a war hero. It's just really cold blooded that his wife didn't love him enough to even write him two full letters during his years of captivity,then to top it off she divorces him (like becoming a prisoner was his fault somehow). He shows much class.
🎯 This great man endured hell and the woman that had the honor and privilege to be his wife, just couldn’t keep her filthy legs closed while her husband was being physically and psychologically tortured. Too much of a sacrifice for her 🙄.
She doesn’t deserve the honor of even washing his dirty socks. What’s more is he likely had to pay her for years afterwards. To endure the hell he did over there, while being fairly certain your wife is being filled by another man, only to finally come home and confirm it….is a torment that I can’t even begin to fathom.
His ex wife rates somewhere between: that film on the roof of your mouth when you wake up, and bile. Absolutely sickening.
Yeah..didn't even get a dear John
Letter..any woman stupid enough
To leave a guy like that wasn't any.good anyway. So no loss
There...an excellent and brave man
A real honest to goodness man..
Good looking and intelligent...
There are plenty of women out.there
Who would be honored to be with
a man like that..and never leave
Stand by you all the way to the end .
She met a Jody
@@sirstephen9825 What is a "Jody" ? (I don't know why people now days have to invent all the silly "code words" for every single thing ?) Just write it out normally please.
@@shanew.williams In basic training we matched in cadence to the Jody cadence. Jody was a mythical civilian usually a 4F who
Thank you for sharing Dewey Waddell's story. What an amazing man.
You are welcome Stephen. Thank you for your kind comment
Thank you Col. Waddell for your service, and thank you for sharing your story with us. God bless.
🙏❤
I thoroughly enjoyed your interview and comments about your time as a “POW” in Viet Nam. The war was horrible, so many lives lost, suffering of the people, the prisoners ……..! I am so very thankful for your service and bravery! My brother was in the Viet Nam war also, in the Air Force, but he was an outstanding mechanic and his job was to repair the embattled Huey’s when they came in on fire etc! When there were no copters, he and the team built and repaired the runways! He won’t talk about the war, that’s why I enjoyed your words! Thank You sir for your service to your country! When my brother got off the train in West Palm Beach Florida, he proudly wore his uniform - but people at the train station spit on him! It was a very unpopular war! Thank You 🙏! Lois
Thank you for sharing your memories and for your kindness Lois
I served with and learned to fly from Vietnam veterans. This is a great interview. Pat Epps is a great guy too. I feel like Dewey was an instructor for private and instrument writtens in the mid to late 80s on weekend ground school. I saw he and his wife on the train at the Atlanta airport in the last few years, but could not place him until later, it had been over 30 years. Maybe I am mistaken, memories fade with age.
An amazing story told by a man who embodies the American ideals of duty, honor and country. God bless Col. Waddell and all the men and women who served in SE Asia. I had the privilege of serving with quite a few Vietnam veterans when I was in the Air Force in the mid 1980's. Our squadron's chief EWO, (Electronic Warfare Officer) was a gentleman who'd served in Vietnam flying the Wild Weasel F105. His stories were amazing He was a great officer, patriot and friend. Please remember these brave men and never forget their service and sacrifice to our great nation.
❤❤🇺🇸🙏
These guys and especially Major Waddell are what makes this country great. I’m sad to see him have to question our current government. He is a real hero and our country should live up to him as he has lived up to it.
🙏♥️🇺🇸
Really excellent video. Make no mistake... the minute a man straps into a flight suit and points a 1960s aircraft toward hostile territory in the service of country... that man is a hero. Thank you for your service Mr. Dewey Waddell. Having nothing to do with politics and all to do with the love of my wife of the last 45 years who is Vietnamese I have been living in Vietnam nearly 30 years with her after moving from the New York area. We live in Saigon but know Hanoi well. Just being in a cell in Hanoi in the brutally hot humid summers or the brutally damp cold winter would be enough to break most men. But living in the time of peace and with many dear friends from both north and south I have had a very good life here but share the exact same concerns for America as Dewey yet with faith like him that the country will work things out. Again.... thank you for your service! Ps... My father was a WWII POW at Stalagluft IV and later Stalag XI-B 1944-45 after air crew service on a B24 lost to flak and so I grew up with a greater understanding than most about what it means to be a POW.
❤️👍
Mr Dewey, I sat spell bound in listening to your story & selute you indeed sir. I've been shot two times myself in the Angola war of 1978 - so I know partially what you went through. It is amazing your strenght to survive through those hard times & you have taught me a fee lessons to remember for the future. There is no doubt in my mind that it was God that showed you that light as the bible speaks in Acts 9:3. After I was shot & busy dying because of losing to much blood (back & head), I prayed this simple prayer on the operation table while feeling the dr stiching me up: 'Lord Jesus, thank you for sparing my life. Will you please forgive me my sins & come into my heart as Revelation 3:20 says. Make me your child & write my name in your book. Amen. If you haven't done so yet, will you please do that right now sir. God bless you sir - hope to meet you in heaven one day. Frans, South Africa.
Why do you address your comment as if the fellow being interviewed is personally reading it ? This is not Dewey's account and he probably doesn't watch an interview with himself and certainly isn't going to reply to comments
@PlayerToBeNamedLater1973 this is not the only comment on this thread addressed to Col. Weddell, why single out this one? In fact why did you bother to write such a hostile tone? It doesn't fit in with the OP or the comments which are respectful.
As an Army veteran from the Vietnam era, I proudly salute you, Dewey. ❤
👍🙏
Although I'm not an American, I wish to thank you for your service to your country. God bless you and all veterans.
My deepest thanks, Cuz. 🇺🇸 🇬🇧
Amen 🙏
@Syd McCreath
Oh, bless, have you not heard about ‘heavenly thoughts and prayers?
I see from ‘your profile that you've left 4 other similar disrespectful, troll comments!
May your God bless you.
But you're not American so you have no standing😂😂
@@Kitiwake
What an absurd comment!
Considering he posted a flag of our current allies whom have fought side by side with our military in Afghanistan not to long ago after 9/11 I don't think it's absurd that he might respect this man and that he choose to service his country. The cuz part at the end is strange choice of words but it's still reliable enough in any lense to respect someone brave whom did a difficult thing for their own people
First, Mr Waddell, thank you very much for your service. I can’t express the amount of gratitude that I have for your service. I couldn’t believe my ears when I heard you say that after a tough mission, you received a shot of Old Overholt whiskey. As early as I can remember growing up, Old Overholt rye whiskey was one of my dad’s favorite whiskeys.
Thank you Dewey! You are a patriot, hero and good man. May God repay you for all of your duty and sacrifice.
❤👍🙏
@Mike Raffphone He was performing his duty. We like or hate soldiers depending on which side we are. If they invaded you, I am sure you would love them. War is ugly, right or wrong, but this soldier was just performing his duty.
@Mike Raffphone get over it.
@Nasty Jenny hard life and looking for someone to blame huh?
Try to be a better person in life and not focus on yourself so much.
I too was at Takhli Febuary 1967 to Febuay 1968. Handled flight rcords and reports of the daily missions. When a pilot was shot down or MIA I pulled his records. You never foget when they don't come back. I'm so happy to know you made it back.
Thank you for your service. I am a Vietnam Veteran and served on the USS Ranger. We had a pilot that escaped from a Vietnam Prison Camp. He was the first navy pilot to escape from POW Camp. There is a youtube video named Lil Dengler Learns to Fly.
They made a movie about him, I believe. Christain Slater played the part (if you're interested).
That was the amazing Dieter Dengler. May he RIP.
I love this man. Hearing his story, painful though it was, blessed me. He actually sounded fairly upbeat
Wow, I can't thank this man enough. I could not imagine what these brave men went thru. I appreciate your service, and my freedom. Thank you sir.
Thank you Major Waddell. I am impressed with your story and even more with the character you exhibit. May God Bless you!
Dewey is a good courageous man and did well for the USA. Can't imagine what he went through. This is the type of people the USA needs again. Thanks Dewey for your service, it can never be repaid with money it is above and beyond. I sure hope the USA and the world comes back to better times. I fear for my grandchildren and children. May you have peace the rest of your life Dewey.
pretty sure those vietnamese grandchildren and children feared the bombs dropped on them!
THANK you for your time of service in Vietnam in the 1960s era I've heard many stories of wars of the Vietnam war and have 2 adopted brothers my parents adopted from South Vietnam who came and lived with our family in the 1970s ,,, anyways honey ❤️ again thank you for your service during that time and GOD bless you and your family and friends and glad you are back home safe and sound , thanks for sharing your story and Blessings to you
Dewey and his army were invaders in another country and deserved to be shot. How are they heroes for using Agent Orange that is resulting in deformed births even now? Killing civilians and calling Vietnamese commies in their own country?
If you want to show some respect, then don't refer to him by his first name. It is extremely disrespectful.
@@kimdasko6952 Why is calling him by his first name disrespectful. I have never heard of that before.
I lived in Bremen Ga. for over 20 years and now live in Cedartown, Ga.(just north). I am a veteran, my father served in Vietnam and my son and his wife are former military. All U.S.A.F. Your story upset me on so many levels. You are a very strong and devoted U.S soldier and citizen. I thank you more than I can say for your service. I will pray for your ex-wife's soul. Hopefully God can forgive her for divorcing a husband that she knew that was a U.S. P.OW. and divorced him anyway. May God have mercy on her soul.
Sir, thank you for your service. I'm so sorry you spent time as a POW, but I'm so happy you got home. You are an American hero . I was in 2nd grade, and 2 family members went to Vietnam , I was so happy when they got home . Thank you again.
What a story! So glad you made it back to tell. God bless you and thank you for your service!
Thanks for listening
Tremendous interview. Many thanks for your bravery and service, Deway Waddell.
God bless this man and all who open up and teach us about that horrible war. He is a hero and may God bless him and his family
❤
Thank you for your service. I enjoyed the interview and loved your sense of humor amidst such suffering and uncertainty. A real American Hero!
👍🙏❤🇺🇸
I feel so angry for the way his "wife" treated him. While he doesn't seem to harbor animosity, I wouldn't blame him at all for being angry. God Bless and protect this man. He is a Good man.
👍
I hope the rest of her life was hell.
Unbelievable…I felt absolute RAGE for her….
Same here. She lost a good one. What a quality man. They don’t make many like that.
I watched this video before and was held captive by his story. Southerners know how to captivate an audience with storytelling. Thank you for your service Mr. Waddell. Loved listening to you.
A fascinating interview, and I will watch this again. Thank you Dewey for your service, from another Vet, serving during the Vietnam conflict. God Bless and your entire family.
I am in tears for his losses and for his last words. Thank you for your service and for taking the time to tell your story, you Sir are a hero and inspiration to us all.
It isn’t enough, but thank you for your service. Brave men like you are this countries true treasure!
I agree 💯
Sir I am so sorry for what you went through. I hope our country is taking care of you as you deserve. God Bless you for your service….
Thank you had to be the most profound interview I’ve heard. Thank you Dewey for your service, in a horrible situation as POW. You stayed strong …the light you saw held you up …your character shines. I pray we all see America back on track as it should be soon.
❤👍🇺🇸
Major Waddell, you sir are a wonderful human being. Our country will be forever beholden to you for your sacrifices for America! God Bless you Sir! From a American soldier, served Vietnam, 1967/68.
Dewey Waddell is embodies in his heart and soul everything that the USA needs in a human being. I'm hoping he does, at some point, write his Autobiography.
👍❤
This was a great interview. Thank you for sharing.
My uncle was friends with a older man up in Alaska back in the 90s. My uncle said this man. Shortly before he passed away claimed to have been a pow in Vietnam from 1966 to 1981. He was a private contractor. He claims on his release he was with a group of air force people 6 of them.
Mr Waddell, Thank you for your service & your sacrifice. Listening to your story was incredibly moving and captivating! I am thankful you made it home to tell it. Wishing you all the very best Sir
I am sure he will be touched when he reads your comment
@@Dronescapes ❤
Thank you Mr. Waddell, this country should never forget you, your service and your dedication to support this country in all it's ways! Without men like you, this country will fail, politicians will never win any wars, but they can cause us to lose so much more. I have gotten to live my nearly 70 years in this country as a free man, and it's only because of men like you that made it possible. My hero since 1964 has been Staff Sargent Tommy L. Boring, my Uncle who completed 3-tours in Vietnam. I will always be grateful for you all!
God Bless you sir. Thank you for your service.
1:05:13 I can't even imagine how that affected him. That has to be one of the most painful things to endure and even worse than his wife divorcing him. Even without being in his shoes and enduring what he was, I can't even imagine how I'd feel if I received a birthday card from my parents and it was only signed by my mother, making it fairly clear that my father had passed. I don't know if I could keep my head together with all of that. He's obviously a brave man, but that was yet another situation that also showed how strong he is and has been. Wow!
Especially if she knew he was a pow. Imagine that. That's cold.
At least he was treated as humanely as it could be by his capturer, given the situation…. While in a different scenario, the majority of VCs that got captured by the Americans in South VN would have their finger nails pulled out or even their fingers clipped, for refusing to talk
Absolutely a PRICELESS interview! Thanks so much for making it happen!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you for your service. Brave men like you saved thousands of lives.
Sir thankyou for taking the time to share your story with us. My dad and husband were both there while you were. You deserve to be honored 1 by being willing to serve and 2 you came home to a country that called you names. I want to say THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 I was so proud of my daddy and all that served and prayed for the MIA/POWs all the time. I am so glad that God sent you that light that gave you peace.❤❤❤
I don't think that I'll ever forget this for as long as I live. Thank you, Sir, for everything and may God bless you.
♥️🙏
I was just a young girl during the Vietnam war. Thank you for your service and your story. It helps me to better understand. I think our young people are going to help right this country. I really do.
Cool to see another Georgia nam vet my great uncle served 2 tour's but sadly died before these guys got there deserved welcome home. Think you for your service welcome home.
Mr Waddell, it’s been an honor to have the privilege of walking down that road of memories with you. However limited my exposure was believe it’s moved me and caused a reevaluation of what I see important. Thank you for your service and your willingness to share.
Thank you for your service and for sharing your story. Much RESPECT.
🙏🙏
Thank you for your service sir!! My uncle served in Vietnam. I was able to attend his military funeral and it was so intense and moving. He never talked to any of us about the events that took place in Vietnam. 🙏💔🙏 he was just a kid right out of high school.
As a 30 yr.Retired Marine, Excellent interview. I spent just over 16mos As a POW
Thank you for your service Sir ❤🤍💙
Thank you for the wonderful upload. I sincerely enjoyed it.
Glad you enjoyed it
Thank you sir for suffered service during this time in your young life. The last words are the most profound in hoping that there are still young men willing to step up and defend America as many of us are witness to a sickness in society today that is frightening for the peaceful future of our country. God Bless
Amen!
Can someone explain how waging war in Vietnam defended America?
In 2003 I was asked to go on a volunteer medical mission in Hanoi for three weeks. I struggled with the decision because I didn't want to be a "Hanoi Jane." I am of your generation. Ultimately, I did go. We worked in a hospital just across the street from Hoa Lo and of course we went into the prison to see where "our guys" had been held and tortured. It has been sanitized and is open as a museum. Even so, it was appalling. The dark cells, stagnant hot and humid air, concrete floor, that larger concrete area with metal restraints set into the floor; I have heard that Sam Johnson was immobilized there so long that his ankles had swollen around the restraints. Not one of us left that place dry eyed. I am in awe of the courage and strength that you and your fellows demonstrated. I'm very glad you made it back and saddened by those who didn't. Communism has done those people no favors. Our patients lived in abject poverty, barely a subsistence. We were mobbed by people desperate for medical help from we Americans. It is a beautiful, lush country but so, so sad. Thank you for your service and thank for sharing your story.
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Incredible story! I couldn’t imagine what he went through! A True hero and gentleman, the quality of which is very rare in today’s military. Thank you for your service and sharing your story!
My father was a Navy pilot and squadron commander. Shot down in 1967 . He was promoted to Captain while MIA. Captain Charles L Putnam USN , flew off the Kitty Hawk, squadron 13 CO. He was shot down in 1967. We did not what happened to him for many years. We where told his copilot was rescued by helicopter but they could not get to my father. The F4 pilots at the scene said they saw his parachute open. We knew nothing for twenty years. His remains where found and he is buried at Arlington . Twenty years he was MIA
. I enjoy listening to your story. I am a farmer in Bainbridge Georgia. My father was lost in March 1967.
Bless him
Being an infantry squad leader in Vietnam, wonded once, I thought I went through hell, this man suffered much and he's a real hero in my book
❤ Thank you for your service Gary
Thank you for your service, Sir ❤🤍💙
@Gary Dyer Make no mistake, you’re a hero, too, my friend.
@@gabe-po9yi Well said Gabe
Welcome home, Gary!
Thank you for sharing this incredible story of bravery and the strength of the human spirit. ❤❤
Thank you so much, you are so welcome!
Thank you sir for your service , bravery and sacrifice. It bothers me your wife knew you were alive and suffering in a POW camp and filed for divorce. I have never heard of that before. Was it common? That must have been a real kick in stomach. I'm so glad you felt eternal peace and have lived a life worth living.
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Although not in POW camps, when I was deployed in Iraq several years ago, a lot of guys in my unit had the same fate, wives divorced them while on deployment because they weren't able to represent themselves so the divorce went through without any input from them, whatever the wife said, she got...mostly the $$$$, it was easy free money to the wives as they got pretty much everything the guys earned, many faced drained bank accounts, came home to being homeless, if they had kids, the kids were of course brainwashed into daddy don't love you or want you, etc. You name it, it happened.
@@wildbill23c They pretty much get what the hell they want anyhow with the husband sitting right there in court. My nephew told me the judge flat told him he didn’t want to hear it. It’s a woman’s world. Joke used to be the’ve got half the money and all the pu$$y, now they’ve got all the money and all the pu$$y.
Sounds like he was well rid of her
Sorry to say this but Americans are obsessed with marriage
My dad graduated in 1959 and met my mother in 1962 and have been married since 1963. 60 years !!!!! I couldn’t be more proud !!!
At the end there, he was very reserved about talking about the specifics of our societal degradation.
I would love for the current generation to have heard those thoughts.
This man is a giant among men.
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You fight for each other, the hell with the country, but it was a time of some of the best music.
Not a lot of time to listening to music, but agree on fighting for each other
A real man's man. People like this make me proud to be an American. Thank u Sir🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
Well said Doug
Thankyou for your amazing service im a 60 yr old woman who remembers this war .I had a hairsalon with Cambodian man who came over I 1980 as a 15 yr old he lived through the killing fields and a war camp his few stories he shared were awful.
Damn fantastic man!
Bravo!
Thank you for putting up with what you did, past and present sir!
I’ve heard a lot of people talk about their experiences in Vietnam of course, but this is the best I’ve heard. In fact the eternal peace experience, I’ve had all my life, and even before I went to Vietnam, but in 1974, I had a tremendous spiritual awakening that is salvation, my spirit was resurrected from the dead and it gave me a knowing of eternal peace that’s hard to explain.
Yesterday was the 50th anniversary of the sweet release of another AF POW Colonel Robert F. Wagonner. POW from 1966-73. We celebrated him yet again with his wife Vickie with many toasts at the bar at VFW Post 8988 in Bishop, Ca.
The post was renamed in his honor this last Veterans Day.
I was a draftee in the USAF, went to OTS at Lackland AFB. Than OTS and became a Communications officer running the navaids maintenance at Richards Gebaur AFB. Then I was assigned to monitoring contracts and operations of the Canadian Northeast Wideband System. Lotsa Canadian to Iceland trips via peaceful flights. Most of my 5.5 years of service was during and after the Vietnam War, but I really had no knowledge of the actual types of Vietnam duty you performed.
Again, I thank you for your service and your candid sharing of the experience.
I want to thank Mr. Dewey for sharing his story. I know it takes a lot of courage to open up and talk about things that were and are extremely painful to us.
As Dewey spoke about what he did post ejection I couldn’t help but think of the U.S. Aircrewman Training and S.E.R.E. School I had went through as a young man in the U.S. Navy.
Those instructors do their best to train and educate us in the art of survival, evading, resistance and escaping but during war time with a determined and unrestrained enemy things are more than likely expected to not go as planned.
A 2nd cousin of mine William Cordero was a U.S.A.F. Navigator who was shot down over Loas May 22, 1965. His name appears on the Vietnam Wall and on Memorials in my county as being one of the first to be K.I.A.
I was injured overseas on March 2, 1989. I will never forget that day and am extremely grateful to be alive today, have my health, children a wife and a roof over my head.
I can openly and honestly say that without question if it were not for the courage and strength of men like Mr. Dewey Waddell to tell their story I would not be open to talk about my story and move forward.
Men like this who who answered the call to duty, volunteered their time to something greater then themselves, struggled along the way through an extremely painful experience to tell their story today is amazing and a testament to who I’d like to emulate.
It’s sad to hear today that there are so many young people in our country who feel the government owes them something.
This country owes us nothing but maybe an opportunity to do better. It’s up to each individual to sacrifice their own time and be of service either local, state or federal government or with their community some how.
I’ve learned it’s definitely better to give than to receive!
I salute you!
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Great interview. I really enjoyed this.
Thank you so much for your service and sharing
Thank you too Micheal
POPS! I LOVE YOU TO HELL AND BACK!💜 You are not my blood! Thank you for compassion, love,and NEVER judged me!
Your still here by my side. You call me kid I call you POPS! THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE ! THERE IS NOT ENOUGH WORDS TO THANKYOU.
Wow this is your father
Thank you for your service sir. Great story.
Thank you
I try to understand what the wives back home were thinking but I have heard too many stories of betrayal to think this was not a common event. Thank you for your service and telling your story.