In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie writes home during a rare lull in missions due to the unofficial truce for the Vietnamese New Year. He shares updates about his instrument flight renewal, receiving his first air medal, and his anticipation of transitioning to the armed platoon. His letters reflect both exhaustion and the relentless passage of time as he counts down the days until his return home.
Accompanied by a photograph of American soldiers standing at ease in the Boulevard of the State Flags in Vinh Long—possibly an award ceremony—today’s episode also continues Finding My Grief, exploring Popi’s early years, his decision to join the Army, and Mema’s stories of their life together.
What’s Covered:
- Bill’s experience with the Vietnamese New Year truce.
- His renewed instrument flight certification and first air medal.
- His shift to the armed platoon.
- Mema’s memories of their early marriage and raising children.
📷 Featured Photo: American soldiers standing at ease in the Boulevard of the State Flags in Vinh Long, with what appears to be a command officer walking across the frame. Could this be an award ceremony?
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe! I’ll be posting new episodes regularly, sharing letters and stories from exactly 60 years ago, as written by my grandfather.
Follow Dearest Suzie on social media:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/
X: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast
📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at [email protected] — I’d love to hear from you!