VIETNAM VETERAN – MORRIS SPITZER

I was in Vietnam from 1968 to 1970 with the Army 173rd Airborne, 1st/50th Mechanized Infantry Recon Scouts.

At 20 years of age, I was the eldest in my group. I later joined the Short Range Ambush Patrol (SRAPS). I was in the jungle at all times. During my tour, I lost 11 lieutenants. I received the Purple Heart for a shrapnel injury. The witnessing of combat, casualties, and destruction resulted in anxiety attacks that came later. I have long been diagnosed with 100% Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder disability. I formed many friendships within my group. They were my brothers in arms.

The last 3 moths of my 14-month tour, I was with the Delta 17th Cav. My family and friends were glad to have me back home in one piece. As far as readjustment to civilian life, I never felt like I fit in, but I learned to fake it well. My closest friends were not aware of my hidden demons, which surfaced many years later.

Sometimes I regret having gone to Vietnam because of the suffering all these years later, but I’m glad that I served. I truthfully don’t care if anyone thanks me for my service or not. I only have one thing to say to protesters: “Always have the soldier’s back.”
~ excerpt from Morris Spitzer’s reflections in the book, VIETNAM & BEYOND

Comes A Soldier’s Whisper offers Morris Spitzer our gratitude for his service to our country.

www.VietnamAndBeyond.com
Photo: Morris Spitzer and his wife Nina