Michael Detmer was drafted on December 27, 1965—one of 30 men from his county sent to Vietnam. Ten of them ended up in the same unit. What followed would bond them for life and haunt them for decades.
In March 1967, Michael’s unit became bait. Artillery was flown into the jungle near Cambodia to draw the NVA into a fight. It worked. Wave after wave of enemy soldiers attacked, outnumbering them ten to one. Michael’s machine gun team fought until they were nearly out of ammunition—ten minutes from being completely overrun.
In this interview:
Growing up a “motorhead” on an Illinois farm
Being drafted with 30 neighbors—and watching out for each other
The moment his gunner started praying mid-battle
Patching up his ammo bearer who took a round to the eye
Returning home to anger and anxiety that almost cost him his marriage
How unit reunions saved his marriage—and his life
Dedicating a bridge to his fallen brother, Herman Anders, 56 years later
What he’d tell young Americans about patriotism today
Big Lesson:
“I never regret that I went there. Never. Never. And the friends I made… I have friends all over the United States now. We’re close.”
“How many countries could you talk about your president and live? If they don’t like it here, I don’t know why they don’t leave.”
If you or a veteran you know is struggling:
Reach out. Talk to someone. Michael found healing through the Vietnam Veterans of America and his unit reunions. You don’t have to carry it alone.
🚐 This interview is brought to you by Van of Valor. They’re on a mission to meet veterans where they are—one story, one ride at a time. Learn more and support the mission at http://www.HelpVoV.com
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