In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes to Suzie about the black cloud of bad luck that seems to be following him through one mishap after another — from wrecked helicopters to accidentally jettisoned rockets. What starts as a humorous letter full of self-deprecating stories reveals how quickly the war is forcing him to take on new responsibilities. After only two days in the Cobra platoon, Popi is already training to become a rocket man — flying some of the deadliest helicopters in Vietnam.
Accompanied by an overhead shot of a three-sided military outpost dug into the ground, today's episode offers a glimpse into the unpredictable rhythm of war — where long stretches of boredom can turn to chaos in an instant.
What’s Covered:
- Popi's growing reputation as a "jinx" among the platoon
- How quickly he was thrust into new roles as a rocket man and instrument instructor
- The challenges of learning to fire rockets from the heavily armed Huey "hog"
- A rare peek into Popi's sense of humor and self-reflection
📷 Featured Photo: Overhead view of a three-sided military outpost, showing the kinds of fortifications Popi would have seen from the air.
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