Member-only story
A Bittersweet Memorial: Honoring My Father’s Service and Struggles as a Vietnam Veteran
Remembering My Father on Memorial Day — Mental Health and Veteran Services
The one and only verifiable fact I know about my dad is that he was a Vietnam veteran and was given a military service when he passed. The service was beautiful but bittersweet, considering I barely knew him or understood the formal service that included the playing of “Taps” and the ceremonial gun salute. I was told that the salute was connected to his rank, but I really don’t know.
I just remember being presented the flag and realizing that this was the only thing I had ever received from my father — besides DNA and his quick wit (according to my mother).
His life was promising, but his death was tragic. I’m writing this story based on our brief encounters and stories I was told from my family and his friends because I only met my dad a few times.
I was told he was always happy and helpful and joined the Army because he wanted to serve his country. He joined shortly after he graduated from high school and fought in the Vietnam War. When he came home, my family said he’d changed. I’d later find out that his happiness was only a façade of finesse — a mask he brought back from Vietnam that hid his…
