Interview Summaries
John Atkins
John Atkins, a US Army veteran, served from 1965 to 1968, primarily in military intelligence. He was commissioned on May 28, 1965, and attended combat platoon leader school at Fort Benning. Atkins was deployed to Vietnam in July 1967 and served with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (Black Horse). He recounted the Tet Offensive, the psychological impact on Americans, and the challenges of combat. Post-service, Atkins pursued graduate studies and reflected on the importance of teamwork, discipline, and respect. He emphasized the significance of good parenting and the broader societal impact of military service. John discussed his experiences in Vietnam, including nightly ambush patrols and the risks he avoided, such as staying off main roads due to landmines. He emphasized the voluntary nature of these patrols and the camaraderie among veterans. Pete also reflected on his patriotism, criticizing the current misuse of the term and expressing disappointment in the political climate. He mentioned his involvement with a veterans' organization, contributing to scholarships, and the mutual respect among Vietnam veterans. Pete shared anecdotes about interpreters and the challenges of communication in Vietnam, highlighting the universal experiences of war.
Ralph McCaughan
Ralph Mccaughan, a Navy ROTC officer from 1957 to 1972, served 15 years, including a stint as a supply officer on a destroyer. He attended the Navy Supply Corps School in Athens, Georgia, and served on board a ship from 1961 to 1963. During his service, he witnessed the Cuban Missile Crisis, where his ship was part of the blockade. Post-service, he attended law school and continued in the reserves. Mccaughan emphasized the importance of teamwork, leadership, and international exposure. He expressed concerns about the current political climate, highlighting the need for a strong rule of law and patriotism focused on domestic issues.
Alex Denson
Alex Denson served in the Navy from 1959 to 1963, attending Officer Candidate School and later Duke Law School. He recounted his experiences during the Cold War, including the Bay of Pigs invasion and the Cuban Missile Crisis. Denson described his role as an officer of the deck and legal officer on the USS Northampton. Post-service, he pursued law, influenced by his military training. He shared impactful moments, such as meeting President Kennedy and advocating for the homeless. Denson emphasized the importance of maturity and responsibility gained from his service, which shaped his legal career and personal values.
Pete Jones
Pete Jones enrolled at UNC in 1953 with tuition at $150 per year. He served in the US Army from 1963 to 1965, completing his medical training and residency. He was stationed at Fort Bragg during the Vietnam build-up and was called to Santo Domingo and Vietnam. Jones described his experiences as terrifying and highlighted the camaraderie among military personnel. Post-service, he pursued a career in radiology, influenced by his uncle and a family friend. He also became involved in Habitat for Humanity and woodworking, finding joy in these hobbies. Atkins reflected on the importance of military service in preserving freedoms and the challenges of modern political leadership.