{"version":"https://jsonfeed.org/version/1","title":"Dearest Suzie","home_page_url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm","feed_url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/json","description":"Welcome to Dearest Suzie, a podcast and photo series that brings to life the personal letters, diary entries, and photographs of U.S. Army helicopter pilot William “Bill” Lowie during his service in the Vietnam War. In this introductory episode, host Alexander Lowie—Bill’s grandson and an anthropologist—sets the stage for a journey through family history and wartime memories.\r\n\r\nWith the 60th anniversary of the Vietnam War approaching, Alexander will share Bill’s experiences in a unique “on this day in history” format, pairing each diary entry or letter with a corresponding photograph. These materials offer a deeply personal glimpse into the war, with over 100 letters to his wife, Susan (“Suzie”), and more than 500 photos captured during his deployment.\r\n\r\nMore than just a historical archive, Dearest Suzie is about discovery, reflection, and connection. Whether you’re interested in military history, personal stories, or exploring your own family’s past, this podcast encourages you to listen, learn, and share your own stories. Join us as we uncover Bill’s memories, one letter at a time.","_fireside":{"subtitle":"The Story of An American Inheritance","pubdate":"2025-02-24T04:00:00.000-05:00","explicit":true,"copyright":"2025 by Dr. Alexander Lowie","owner":"Alexander Lowie","image":"https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/3/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/cover.jpg?v=2"},"items":[{"id":"8ea45479-8aeb-4f9e-a5bd-a293d2ec0cde","title":"Episode 052: 1965-02-24 | Never A Dull Moment","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/052","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes home about the long-awaited arrival of Suzie’s ring, his newly earned air medals, and the ever-present dangers surrounding his unit. He jokes about Suzie forgetting to congratulate him on making chief, but his letter also carries the weight of war—mentioning an outpost overrun just miles away.\n\nAccompanied by a photograph of soldiers gathered around a helicopter, today’s episode explores the duality of Popi’s life: the lighthearted teasing of a husband writing to his wife and the grim reality of constant danger in Vietnam.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe long journey of Suzie’s ring and family updates\nThe dangers of daily life in Vietnam, including an outpost attack\nPopi’s earned but unawarded air medals\nA surprising post-war story: Popi’s international arrest and a family theory about the CIA\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A group of soldiers standing around a helicopter, appearing to plan a mission. The setting suggests a base or airfield, capturing a moment of preparation before flight.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyStories #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes home about the long-awaited arrival of Suzie’s ring, his newly earned air medals, and the ever-present dangers surrounding his unit. He jokes about Suzie forgetting to congratulate him on making chief, but his letter also carries the weight of war—mentioning an outpost overrun just miles away.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photograph of soldiers gathered around a helicopter, today’s episode explores the duality of Popi’s life: the lighthearted teasing of a husband writing to his wife and the grim reality of constant danger in Vietnam.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe long journey of Suzie’s ring and family updates\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe dangers of daily life in Vietnam, including an outpost attack\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s earned but unawarded air medals\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA surprising post-war story: Popi’s international arrest and a family theory about the CIA\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A group of soldiers standing around a helicopter, appearing to plan a mission. The setting suggests a base or airfield, capturing a moment of preparation before flight.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyStories #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes home about the long-awaited arrival of Suzie’s ring, his newly earned air medals, and the ever-present dangers surrounding his unit. He jokes about Suzie forgetting to congratulate him on making chief, but his letter also carries the weight of war—mentioning an outpost overrun just miles away.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photograph of soldiers gathered around a helicopter, today’s episode explores the duality of Popi’s life: the lighthearted teasing of a husband writing to his wife and the grim reality of constant danger in Vietnam.","date_published":"2025-02-24T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/8ea45479-8aeb-4f9e-a5bd-a293d2ec0cde.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":13284607,"duration_in_seconds":319}]},{"id":"6a00963b-465a-443d-ba86-a43696ac0c79","title":"Episode 051: 1965-02-22 | Counting Days","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/051","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie writes home about the growing pressures of war, from sleepless nights under mortar fire to a troop-lift mission that left two aircraft shot up. Amidst the tension, he finds small comforts in letters from home, a reminder of the life waiting for him beyond Vietnam.\n\nAccompanied by a blurred, dreamlike photo of an early morning troop lift, today’s episode is a reflection on inheritance—both tangible and intangible. As I prepare for my own wedding day, I consider the ways my grandfather’s experiences, personality, and struggles have shaped my own.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nBill’s reflections on home, family, and the gift he sent Suzie\nA dangerous troop-lift mission and the constant strain of war\nA personal reflection on inheritance, identity, and understanding the past\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A hazy, early morning troop lift—muted colors, unclear faces, helicopters barely hovering in the air. One of my favorites.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #WarLetters #FamilyLegacy #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie writes home about the growing pressures of war, from sleepless nights under mortar fire to a troop-lift mission that left two aircraft shot up. Amidst the tension, he finds small comforts in letters from home, a reminder of the life waiting for him beyond Vietnam.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a blurred, dreamlike photo of an early morning troop lift, today’s episode is a reflection on inheritance—both tangible and intangible. As I prepare for my own wedding day, I consider the ways my grandfather’s experiences, personality, and struggles have shaped my own.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill’s reflections on home, family, and the gift he sent Suzie\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA dangerous troop-lift mission and the constant strain of war\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA personal reflection on inheritance, identity, and understanding the past\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A hazy, early morning troop lift—muted colors, unclear faces, helicopters barely hovering in the air. One of my favorites.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #WarLetters #FamilyLegacy #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie writes home about the growing pressures of war, from sleepless nights under mortar fire to a troop-lift mission that left two aircraft shot up. Amidst the tension, he finds small comforts in letters from home, a reminder of the life waiting for him beyond Vietnam.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a blurred, dreamlike photo of an early morning troop lift, today’s episode is a reflection on inheritance—both tangible and intangible. As I prepare for my own wedding day, I consider the ways my grandfather’s experiences, personality, and struggles have shaped my own.","date_published":"2025-02-22T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/6a00963b-465a-443d-ba86-a43696ac0c79.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17628472,"duration_in_seconds":440}]},{"id":"5ea4f87d-75ae-4378-ba4a-635fe8c44542","title":"Episode 050: 1965-02-20 | Escaping the Saigon Coup","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/050","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi grapples with the aftermath of a helicopter crash that shakes his confidence as a pilot. Writing to Suzie, he admits, “I was so stunned for a while I couldn’t figure out what happened.” With over 1,100 flight hours under his belt, the incident forces him to question his abilities and step back from his Instructor Pilot role.\n\nMeanwhile, a routine trip to Saigon for a physical turns into a brush with political chaos as an attempted coup unfolds. Bill describes tanks and armed troops scattered across the airfield, blocking Vietnamese planes while letting Americans take off—just moments before the entire airport is shut down. His account captures both the unpredictability of war and the eerie sense of detachment that comes with living through constant upheaval.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe lingering effects of Bill’s helicopter crash on his confidence\nThe February 1965 South Vietnamese coup and its broader implications\nA tense escape from Saigon just before the airfield shuts down\nThe surreal contrast between danger and downtime in a warzone\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: The façade of Tan Son Nhut Airport, where Popi’s tense departure from Saigon took place.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #WarDiaries #Saigon #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi grapples with the aftermath of a helicopter crash that shakes his confidence as a pilot. Writing to Suzie, he admits, “I was so stunned for a while I couldn’t figure out what happened.” With over 1,100 flight hours under his belt, the incident forces him to question his abilities and step back from his Instructor Pilot role.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMeanwhile, a routine trip to Saigon for a physical turns into a brush with political chaos as an attempted coup unfolds. Bill describes tanks and armed troops scattered across the airfield, blocking Vietnamese planes while letting Americans take off—just moments before the entire airport is shut down. His account captures both the unpredictability of war and the eerie sense of detachment that comes with living through constant upheaval.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe lingering effects of Bill’s helicopter crash on his confidence\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe February 1965 South Vietnamese coup and its broader implications\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA tense escape from Saigon just before the airfield shuts down\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe surreal contrast between danger and downtime in a warzone\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: The façade of Tan Son Nhut Airport, where Popi’s tense departure from Saigon took place.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #WarDiaries #Saigon #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi grapples with the aftermath of a helicopter crash that shakes his confidence as a pilot. Writing to Suzie, he admits, “I was so stunned for a while I couldn’t figure out what happened.” With over 1,100 flight hours under his belt, the incident forces him to question his abilities and step back from his Instructor Pilot role.\r\n\r\nMeanwhile, a routine trip to Saigon for a physical turns into a brush with political chaos as an attempted coup unfolds. Bill describes tanks and armed troops scattered across the airfield, blocking Vietnamese planes while letting Americans take off—just moments before the entire airport is shut down. His account captures both the unpredictability of war and the eerie sense of detachment that comes with living through constant upheaval.","date_published":"2025-02-20T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/5ea4f87d-75ae-4378-ba4a-635fe8c44542.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":23241916,"duration_in_seconds":568}]},{"id":"8b26a008-cd42-4b5f-ba05-41195c912b69","title":"Episode 049: 1965-02-18 | Crash Landing","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/049","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes about what he calls “the blackest day of my life.” While practicing autorotations—a critical emergency maneuver—his helicopter crashes, leaving him shaken and questioning his future as an Instructor Pilot. Though he and his platoon leader survive, the accident weighs heavily on him, not just as a dangerous moment but as a blow to his confidence and identity as a pilot.\n\nThis letter stands apart from the rest. We’ve seen Bill write about exhaustion, stress, and even fear, but here, his words carry something deeper—self-doubt. He fears this crash may cost him his role as an instructor, and for the first time, his usual steady tone falters. His letter is brief, lacking his usual updates, as if he struggles to find the words. Most telling of all is his closing: “I love you very much and I need you especially right now.” It’s raw and vulnerable, showing just how deeply this moment affected him.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nA training accident shakes Bill’s confidence as a pilot.\nThe weight of self-doubt in a high-risk profession.\nHow this moment marks a shift in his letters and outlook.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A crashed helicopter in a field, illustrating the kind of scene Bill might have faced that day.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryAviation #HelicopterCrash #VietnamHistory #WarLetters #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes about what he calls “the blackest day of my life.” While practicing autorotations—a critical emergency maneuver—his helicopter crashes, leaving him shaken and questioning his future as an Instructor Pilot. Though he and his platoon leader survive, the accident weighs heavily on him, not just as a dangerous moment but as a blow to his confidence and identity as a pilot.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis letter stands apart from the rest. We’ve seen Bill write about exhaustion, stress, and even fear, but here, his words carry something deeper—self-doubt. He fears this crash may cost him his role as an instructor, and for the first time, his usual steady tone falters. His letter is brief, lacking his usual updates, as if he struggles to find the words. Most telling of all is his closing: “I love you very much and I need you especially right now.” It’s raw and vulnerable, showing just how deeply this moment affected him.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA training accident shakes Bill’s confidence as a pilot.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe weight of self-doubt in a high-risk profession.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow this moment marks a shift in his letters and outlook.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A crashed helicopter in a field, illustrating the kind of scene Bill might have faced that day.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryAviation #HelicopterCrash #VietnamHistory #WarLetters #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes about what he calls “the blackest day of my life.” While practicing autorotations—a critical emergency maneuver—his helicopter crashes, leaving him shaken and questioning his future as an Instructor Pilot. Though he and his platoon leader survive, the accident weighs heavily on him, not just as a dangerous moment but as a blow to his confidence and identity as a pilot.\r\n\r\nThis letter stands apart from the rest. We’ve seen Bill write about exhaustion, stress, and even fear, but here, his words carry something deeper—self-doubt. He fears this crash may cost him his role as an instructor, and for the first time, his usual steady tone falters. His letter is brief, lacking his usual updates, as if he struggles to find the words. Most telling of all is his closing: “I love you very much and I need you especially right now.” It’s raw and vulnerable, showing just how deeply this moment affected him.","date_published":"2025-02-18T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/8b26a008-cd42-4b5f-ba05-41195c912b69.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":15995809,"duration_in_seconds":387}]},{"id":"c03e98a4-ae4e-427e-8480-9c6bd5fc3580","title":"Episode 048: 1965-02-16 | The War In Print","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/048","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill reflects on how the war is being portrayed back home, mentioning that his unit might be featured in the Orlando Sentinel and that an upcoming awards ceremony could be covered as well. He describes how their commanding officer made “a big production” out of their orders, complete with pictures and press coverage. While Bill’s letters often reveal the strain of isolation and the monotony of life on base, the version of the war presented in newspapers was far more polished—highlighting commendations and achievements rather than the daily hardships of soldiers on the ground.\n\nBill also shares his growing frustration with being stuck on the compound for weeks, saying the walls are “closing in” on him. Even though town is no longer off-limits, he’s still too uneasy to go. His words capture the contrast between how the war felt to those living it and how it was packaged for those watching from home.\n\nAccompanied by a rare glimpse into the daily life of soldiers off the battlefield, today’s featured photo shows two Vietnamese women washing clothes outside a base, with sandbags stacked behind them and shirts drying on a line above. These women, hired to do laundry for the soldiers, represent the complex and often unseen interactions between troops and local civilians. Were they just trying to make a living, or were they passing information to the Viet Cong? The war’s uncertainties stretched beyond combat, shaping even the most routine moments of daily life.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe role of newspapers in shaping public perception of the Vietnam War\nBill’s feelings of isolation and his reluctance to leave base\nThe upcoming awards ceremony and media attention on his unit\nThe blurred lines between civilian life and the war effort in Vietnam\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Two Vietnamese women washing clothes on a patio outside a base, with sandbags stacked behind them and shirts drying on a line above.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #WarLetters #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill reflects on how the war is being portrayed back home, mentioning that his unit might be featured in the Orlando Sentinel and that an upcoming awards ceremony could be covered as well. He describes how their commanding officer made “a big production” out of their orders, complete with pictures and press coverage. While Bill’s letters often reveal the strain of isolation and the monotony of life on base, the version of the war presented in newspapers was far more polished—highlighting commendations and achievements rather than the daily hardships of soldiers on the ground.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBill also shares his growing frustration with being stuck on the compound for weeks, saying the walls are “closing in” on him. Even though town is no longer off-limits, he’s still too uneasy to go. His words capture the contrast between how the war felt to those living it and how it was packaged for those watching from home.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a rare glimpse into the daily life of soldiers off the battlefield, today’s featured photo shows two Vietnamese women washing clothes outside a base, with sandbags stacked behind them and shirts drying on a line above. These women, hired to do laundry for the soldiers, represent the complex and often unseen interactions between troops and local civilians. Were they just trying to make a living, or were they passing information to the Viet Cong? The war’s uncertainties stretched beyond combat, shaping even the most routine moments of daily life.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe role of newspapers in shaping public perception of the Vietnam War\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill’s feelings of isolation and his reluctance to leave base\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe upcoming awards ceremony and media attention on his unit\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blurred lines between civilian life and the war effort in Vietnam\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Two Vietnamese women washing clothes on a patio outside a base, with sandbags stacked behind them and shirts drying on a line above.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #WarLetters #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill reflects on how the war is being portrayed back home, mentioning that his unit might be featured in the Orlando Sentinel and that an upcoming awards ceremony could be covered as well. He describes how their commanding officer made “a big production” out of their orders, complete with pictures and press coverage. While Bill’s letters often reveal the strain of isolation and the monotony of life on base, the version of the war presented in newspapers was far more polished—highlighting commendations and achievements rather than the daily hardships of soldiers on the ground.\r\n\r\nBill also shares his growing frustration with being stuck on the compound for weeks, saying the walls are “closing in” on him. Even though town is no longer off-limits, he’s still too uneasy to go. His words capture the contrast between how the war felt to those living it and how it was packaged for those watching from home.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a rare glimpse into the daily life of soldiers off the battlefield, today’s featured photo shows two Vietnamese women washing clothes outside a base, with sandbags stacked behind them and shirts drying on a line above. These women, hired to do laundry for the soldiers, represent the complex and often unseen interactions between troops and local civilians. Were they just trying to make a living, or were they passing information to the Viet Cong? The war’s uncertainties stretched beyond combat, shaping even the most routine moments of daily life.","date_published":"2025-02-16T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/c03e98a4-ae4e-427e-8480-9c6bd5fc3580.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":14435867,"duration_in_seconds":348}]},{"id":"b9a24ef7-1391-40ce-9f80-3427f4ef2368","title":"Episode 047: 1965-02-14 | A Quiet Promotion","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/047","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill shares news of his upcoming promotion—but his reaction is telling. He isn’t concerned with the ceremony or recognition, just the extra $40 a month and the new title of “Chief.” Like many warrant officers, he saw promotions as more of a bureaucratic formality than a milestone, focused more on the practical benefits than the prestige.\n\nHe also writes about the constant state of alert, the toll of restrictions, and the isolation of life on base. While he jokes about his growing collection of air medals, his real focus remains on home—Valentine’s cards from Suzie and the boys, gifts sent to family, and the small connections that keep him tethered to normalcy.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nBill’s upcoming promotion and what it meant for warrant officers in Vietnam.\nThe financial realities of military pay and why even a small raise mattered.\nHow soldiers viewed promotion ceremonies versus the military’s emphasis on tradition.\nLife on base—restrictions, constant alerts, and the strain of isolation.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Mekong Manor Officer’s Club, a place where Chief and his friends spent time off duty.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyMemoir #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill shares news of his upcoming promotion—but his reaction is telling. He isn’t concerned with the ceremony or recognition, just the extra $40 a month and the new title of “Chief.” Like many warrant officers, he saw promotions as more of a bureaucratic formality than a milestone, focused more on the practical benefits than the prestige.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHe also writes about the constant state of alert, the toll of restrictions, and the isolation of life on base. While he jokes about his growing collection of air medals, his real focus remains on home—Valentine’s cards from Suzie and the boys, gifts sent to family, and the small connections that keep him tethered to normalcy.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill’s upcoming promotion and what it meant for warrant officers in Vietnam.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe financial realities of military pay and why even a small raise mattered.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow soldiers viewed promotion ceremonies versus the military’s emphasis on tradition.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLife on base—restrictions, constant alerts, and the strain of isolation.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Mekong Manor Officer’s Club, a place where Chief and his friends spent time off duty.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyMemoir #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill shares news of his upcoming promotion—but his reaction is telling. He isn’t concerned with the ceremony or recognition, just the extra $40 a month and the new title of “Chief.” Like many warrant officers, he saw promotions as more of a bureaucratic formality than a milestone, focused more on the practical benefits than the prestige.\r\n\r\nHe also writes about the constant state of alert, the toll of restrictions, and the isolation of life on base. While he jokes about his growing collection of air medals, his real focus remains on home—Valentine’s cards from Suzie and the boys, gifts sent to family, and the small connections that keep him tethered to normalcy.","date_published":"2025-02-14T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/b9a24ef7-1391-40ce-9f80-3427f4ef2368.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":16335933,"duration_in_seconds":408}]},{"id":"0d41984b-cc52-4eca-9e61-dcca6aca0f1e","title":"Episode 046: 1965-02-11 | The Trouble At Sóc Trăng","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/046","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill writes home about the restrictions placed on his unit, the ongoing tension of 30-minute alerts, and the attack on Sóc Trăng. His letter reflects the strain of waiting for the inevitable, the frustration of being cut off from town, and the small joys of receiving Valentine’s cards from home. He also shares news of his long-awaited promotion—one that brings more responsibility, a new title, and a modest pay raise, but little excitement.\n\nThrough his words, we get a glimpse into the daily struggles of soldiers in Vietnam—how they coped with uncertainty, leaned on routine, and found comfort in small connections to home.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe attack on Sóc Trăng and the impact of constant alerts.\nThe significance of Bill’s promotion and what it meant for a warrant officer.\nThe importance of the PX for soldiers stationed overseas.\nThe ongoing isolation from town and how it affected morale.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A hand-drawn sign from Sóc Trăng, featuring five different graphics and the text: 121st Aviation Company. Welcome to Sóc Trăng Army International Aerial Port. Elevation +/- 2 feet. “The Famed Sóc Trăng Tigers.”\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyMemoir #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill writes home about the restrictions placed on his unit, the ongoing tension of 30-minute alerts, and the attack on Sóc Trăng. His letter reflects the strain of waiting for the inevitable, the frustration of being cut off from town, and the small joys of receiving Valentine’s cards from home. He also shares news of his long-awaited promotion—one that brings more responsibility, a new title, and a modest pay raise, but little excitement.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThrough his words, we get a glimpse into the daily struggles of soldiers in Vietnam—how they coped with uncertainty, leaned on routine, and found comfort in small connections to home.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe attack on Sóc Trăng and the impact of constant alerts.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe significance of Bill’s promotion and what it meant for a warrant officer.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe importance of the PX for soldiers stationed overseas.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe ongoing isolation from town and how it affected morale.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A hand-drawn sign from Sóc Trăng, featuring five different graphics and the text: 121st Aviation Company. Welcome to Sóc Trăng Army International Aerial Port. Elevation +/- 2 feet. “The Famed Sóc Trăng Tigers.”\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyMemoir #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill writes home about the restrictions placed on his unit, the ongoing tension of 30-minute alerts, and the attack on Sóc Trăng. His letter reflects the strain of waiting for the inevitable, the frustration of being cut off from town, and the small joys of receiving Valentine’s cards from home. He also shares news of his long-awaited promotion—one that brings more responsibility, a new title, and a modest pay raise, but little excitement.\r\n\r\nThrough his words, we get a glimpse into the daily struggles of soldiers in Vietnam—how they coped with uncertainty, leaned on routine, and found comfort in small connections to home.","date_published":"2025-02-11T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/0d41984b-cc52-4eca-9e61-dcca6aca0f1e.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":15247150,"duration_in_seconds":381}]},{"id":"f6a8324a-ca10-4e7b-8d76-2b78d4986a4d","title":"Finding My Grief | Full Piece","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/fmg","content_text":"In this special compilation episode of Dearest Suzie, we present the full Finding My Grief series—an intimate exploration of loss, memory, and connection to my grandfather. Across these episodes, I reflect on what it means to inherit a loved one’s things, to uncover pieces of their past, and to navigate the complex emotions that come with preserving their story.\n\nThrough the things in my grandparent's trailer, we witness not just the realities of war but also the deeply personal struggles of distance, longing, and responsibility. As I piece together his experiences, I also confront my own grief—learning how history, family, and personal loss intertwine.\n\n🔔 If you found this episode meaningful, 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #FindingMyGrief #BillLowieLetters #InheritTheStories #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #VietnamLetters #CombatStories #WarDiaries #GriefJourney #HistoricalPodcast","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this special compilation episode of Dearest Suzie, we present the full Finding My Grief series—an intimate exploration of loss, memory, and connection to my grandfather. Across these episodes, I reflect on what it means to inherit a loved one’s things, to uncover pieces of their past, and to navigate the complex emotions that come with preserving their story.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThrough the things in my grandparent\u0026#39;s trailer, we witness not just the realities of war but also the deeply personal struggles of distance, longing, and responsibility. As I piece together his experiences, I also confront my own grief—learning how history, family, and personal loss intertwine.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 If you found this episode meaningful, 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #FindingMyGrief #BillLowieLetters #InheritTheStories #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #VietnamLetters #CombatStories #WarDiaries #GriefJourney #HistoricalPodcast\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this special compilation episode of Dearest Suzie, we present the full Finding My Grief series—an intimate exploration of loss, memory, and connection to my grandfather. Across these episodes, I reflect on what it means to inherit a loved one’s things, to uncover pieces of their past, and to navigate the complex emotions that come with preserving their story.\r\n\r\nThrough the things in my grandparent's trailer, we witness not just the realities of war but also the deeply personal struggles of distance, longing, and responsibility. As I piece together his experiences, I also confront my own grief—learning how history, family, and personal loss intertwine.","date_published":"2025-02-10T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/f6a8324a-ca10-4e7b-8d76-2b78d4986a4d.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":25291421,"duration_in_seconds":1921}]},{"id":"0e7522b3-95ef-4b56-aa22-6ba47223f14d","title":"Episode 045: 1965-02-09 | Finding My Grief, Finale","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/045","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill writes home about the latest attacks in Vietnam, including a strike on Soc Trang and an outpost dangerously close to his own base. His letter reveals the growing tension among the men—watching the firefight from their helicopters, waiting for their turn to be hit. He speaks of fear, exhaustion, and frustration, but also of love—sending thoughts of home, responding to Suzie’s requests, and pushing back against the idea that they need anything more in common than their family.\n\nThis episode also concludes Finding My Grief, a deeply personal reflection on loss, memory, and coming to understand the complexities of Popi’s life. Through stories shared by Mema and the objects left behind, the journey of reckoning with grief comes full circle, offering closure and a path toward healing.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe attack on Soc Trang and growing fears of an imminent strike.\nBill’s thoughts on home, love, and the small details that tether him to normalcy.\nThe conclusion of Finding My Grief—a reflection on family, loss, and the stories that shape us.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A view from a helicopter cockpit on the ground, facing another chopper in a clearing surrounded by dense forest.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyMemoir #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill writes home about the latest attacks in Vietnam, including a strike on Soc Trang and an outpost dangerously close to his own base. His letter reveals the growing tension among the men—watching the firefight from their helicopters, waiting for their turn to be hit. He speaks of fear, exhaustion, and frustration, but also of love—sending thoughts of home, responding to Suzie’s requests, and pushing back against the idea that they need anything more in common than their family.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis episode also concludes Finding My Grief, a deeply personal reflection on loss, memory, and coming to understand the complexities of Popi’s life. Through stories shared by Mema and the objects left behind, the journey of reckoning with grief comes full circle, offering closure and a path toward healing.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe attack on Soc Trang and growing fears of an imminent strike.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill’s thoughts on home, love, and the small details that tether him to normalcy.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe conclusion of Finding My Grief—a reflection on family, loss, and the stories that shape us.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A view from a helicopter cockpit on the ground, facing another chopper in a clearing surrounded by dense forest.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyMemoir #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill writes home about the latest attacks in Vietnam, including a strike on Soc Trang and an outpost dangerously close to his own base. His letter reveals the growing tension among the men—watching the firefight from their helicopters, waiting for their turn to be hit. He speaks of fear, exhaustion, and frustration, but also of love—sending thoughts of home, responding to Suzie’s requests, and pushing back against the idea that they need anything more in common than their family.\r\n\r\nThis episode also concludes Finding My Grief, a deeply personal reflection on loss, memory, and coming to understand the complexities of Popi’s life. Through stories shared by Mema and the objects left behind, the journey of reckoning with grief comes full circle, offering closure and a path toward healing.","date_published":"2025-02-09T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/0e7522b3-95ef-4b56-aa22-6ba47223f14d.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":21536492,"duration_in_seconds":538}]},{"id":"2c3884fe-7dc6-452a-8a14-8ab10bf15bdb","title":"Episode 044: 1965-02-07 | Panic From Pleiku","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/044","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie writes home with the weight of war on his shoulders. The Viet Cong attack on Pleiku has shaken his unit, leaving them anxiously waiting for casualty reports and wondering if they’ll be next. His words—“It is hopeless”—capture the frustration and exhaustion of soldiers caught in an escalating conflict.\n\nAccompanied by a photo of Charlie, the mischievous base mascot, today’s episode explores the impact of the Pleiku attack, the growing sense of futility among troops, and the small comforts that kept them going.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe February 7, 1965, attack on Pleiku and its impact\nThe shift in U.S. military involvement following Operation Flaming Dart\nPopi’s sense of frustration and exhaustion in his letter\nThe psychological toll of war on soldiers in Vietnam\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Charlie climbing up someone’s pants—one of the little distractions that helped troops cope with war.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MohawkAircraft #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie writes home with the weight of war on his shoulders. The Viet Cong attack on Pleiku has shaken his unit, leaving them anxiously waiting for casualty reports and wondering if they’ll be next. His words—“It is hopeless”—capture the frustration and exhaustion of soldiers caught in an escalating conflict.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo of Charlie, the mischievous base mascot, today’s episode explores the impact of the Pleiku attack, the growing sense of futility among troops, and the small comforts that kept them going.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe February 7, 1965, attack on Pleiku and its impact\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe shift in U.S. military involvement following Operation Flaming Dart\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s sense of frustration and exhaustion in his letter\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe psychological toll of war on soldiers in Vietnam\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Charlie climbing up someone’s pants—one of the little distractions that helped troops cope with war.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MohawkAircraft #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie writes home with the weight of war on his shoulders. The Viet Cong attack on Pleiku has shaken his unit, leaving them anxiously waiting for casualty reports and wondering if they’ll be next. His words—“It is hopeless”—capture the frustration and exhaustion of soldiers caught in an escalating conflict.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo of Charlie, the mischievous base mascot, today’s episode explores the impact of the Pleiku attack, the growing sense of futility among troops, and the small comforts that kept them going.","date_published":"2025-02-07T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/2c3884fe-7dc6-452a-8a14-8ab10bf15bdb.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":15517778,"duration_in_seconds":387}]},{"id":"66c7511a-d3ad-4035-b793-ef994be1f829","title":"Episode 043: 1965-02-06 | Finding My Grief Pt. 6","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/043","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes to Suzie about financial concerns, a possible trip to Bangkok, and his efforts to send money home despite unexpected expenses. He reassures her that they are managing and reminds her not to stress about savings while they are apart. His letter, unfinished due to a missing page, leaves lingering questions about his thoughts in that moment.\n\nAccompanied by a photo from Hawaii, today’s episode explores not only Popi’s plans but also reflections on his return from war, his struggles with vulnerability, and the impact of his service on his family.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nPopi’s financial sacrifices and concerns for Suzie\nA possible trip to Bangkok and buying a sapphire\nThe realities of managing life apart\nFamily reflections on how Vietnam changed him\nA look at his later years and how he coped with illness\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A snapshot from Hawaii, featuring a storefront for Japanese Airlines, Dairy Queen, and other businesses—a reminder of the trip that might never have happened.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #WarLetters #FamilyHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes to Suzie about financial concerns, a possible trip to Bangkok, and his efforts to send money home despite unexpected expenses. He reassures her that they are managing and reminds her not to stress about savings while they are apart. His letter, unfinished due to a missing page, leaves lingering questions about his thoughts in that moment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo from Hawaii, today’s episode explores not only Popi’s plans but also reflections on his return from war, his struggles with vulnerability, and the impact of his service on his family.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s financial sacrifices and concerns for Suzie\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA possible trip to Bangkok and buying a sapphire\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe realities of managing life apart\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFamily reflections on how Vietnam changed him\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA look at his later years and how he coped with illness\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A snapshot from Hawaii, featuring a storefront for Japanese Airlines, Dairy Queen, and other businesses—a reminder of the trip that might never have happened.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #WarLetters #FamilyHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes to Suzie about financial concerns, a possible trip to Bangkok, and his efforts to send money home despite unexpected expenses. He reassures her that they are managing and reminds her not to stress about savings while they are apart. His letter, unfinished due to a missing page, leaves lingering questions about his thoughts in that moment.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo from Hawaii, today’s episode explores not only Popi’s plans but also reflections on his return from war, his struggles with vulnerability, and the impact of his service on his family.","date_published":"2025-02-06T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/66c7511a-d3ad-4035-b793-ef994be1f829.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":20267884,"duration_in_seconds":506}]},{"id":"b1e719be-c0e7-45b7-81ac-608f5cfea4f9","title":"Episode 042: 1965-02-05 | Finding My Grief Pt. 5","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/042","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill sends a short letter home, enclosing their income tax return and expressing how much he misses his family. Meanwhile, the next part of Finding My Grief delves into the ways Popi treated each of his sons differently—and how those differences shaped their lives.\n\nAccompanied by a striking aerial photo of Bien Hoa after a Viet Cong attack, today’s episode explores family dynamics, resilience, and the lasting effects of parental expectations.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nBill’s letter home and financial planning for Suzie.\nThe stark differences in how Popi treated each of his sons.\nHow childhood experiences shaped their adult lives and relationships.\nAerial photo of Bien Hoa, hinting at the vulnerability of American bases.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A photo taken by Bill over Bien Hoa after a Viet Cong attack, illustrating the ever-present dangers of war.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyDynamics #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill sends a short letter home, enclosing their income tax return and expressing how much he misses his family. Meanwhile, the next part of Finding My Grief delves into the ways Popi treated each of his sons differently—and how those differences shaped their lives.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a striking aerial photo of Bien Hoa after a Viet Cong attack, today’s episode explores family dynamics, resilience, and the lasting effects of parental expectations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill’s letter home and financial planning for Suzie.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe stark differences in how Popi treated each of his sons.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow childhood experiences shaped their adult lives and relationships.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAerial photo of Bien Hoa, hinting at the vulnerability of American bases.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A photo taken by Bill over Bien Hoa after a Viet Cong attack, illustrating the ever-present dangers of war.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyDynamics #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill sends a short letter home, enclosing their income tax return and expressing how much he misses his family. Meanwhile, the next part of Finding My Grief delves into the ways Popi treated each of his sons differently—and how those differences shaped their lives.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a striking aerial photo of Bien Hoa after a Viet Cong attack, today’s episode explores family dynamics, resilience, and the lasting effects of parental expectations.","date_published":"2025-02-05T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/b1e719be-c0e7-45b7-81ac-608f5cfea4f9.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":23251104,"duration_in_seconds":581}]},{"id":"9087616a-f409-4e83-af61-fa543fe14456","title":"Episode 041: 1965-02-04 | Finding My Grief Pt. 4","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/041","content_text":"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.\n\nAccompanied 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.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nBill’s experience with the Vietnamese New Year truce.\nHis renewed instrument flight certification and first air medal.\nHis shift to the armed platoon.\nMema’s memories of their early marriage and raising children.\n\n\n📷 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?\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories #Photos #Podcast #History #Aviation","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill’s experience with the Vietnamese New Year truce.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHis renewed instrument flight certification and first air medal.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHis shift to the armed platoon.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMema’s memories of their early marriage and raising children.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 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?\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories #Photos #Podcast #History #Aviation\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"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.\r\n\r\nAccompanied 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.","date_published":"2025-02-04T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/9087616a-f409-4e83-af61-fa543fe14456.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":18294072,"duration_in_seconds":457}]},{"id":"7c95e774-8eb7-4bec-a26b-fa1f91ef2d50","title":"All Episodes, January 1965","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/january","content_text":"In this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we reflect on the January 1965 letters from Bill Lowie, capturing a month filled with uncertainty, hardship, and resilience. From financial struggles and missed holidays to heightened alerts and the looming threat of attacks, Bill’s words reveal the stark realities of war.\n\nAs tensions escalate , Bill navigates life on continuous standby. Amidst the stress, his letters remain filled with love—promising gifts for Suzie and the boys, finding small ways to stay connected despite the distance.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #1965Vietnam #BillLowieLetters #InheritTheStories #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #VietnamLetters #CombatStories #WarDiaries #JanuaryRecap #HistoricalPodcast","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we reflect on the January 1965 letters from Bill Lowie, capturing a month filled with uncertainty, hardship, and resilience. From financial struggles and missed holidays to heightened alerts and the looming threat of attacks, Bill’s words reveal the stark realities of war.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs tensions escalate , Bill navigates life on continuous standby. Amidst the stress, his letters remain filled with love—promising gifts for Suzie and the boys, finding small ways to stay connected despite the distance.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #1965Vietnam #BillLowieLetters #InheritTheStories #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #VietnamLetters #CombatStories #WarDiaries #JanuaryRecap #HistoricalPodcast\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we reflect on the January 1965 letters from Bill Lowie, capturing a month filled with uncertainty, hardship, and resilience. From financial struggles and missed holidays to heightened alerts and the looming threat of attacks, Bill’s words reveal the stark realities of war.\r\n\r\nAs tensions escalate , Bill navigates life on continuous standby. Amidst the stress, his letters remain filled with love—promising gifts for Suzie and the boys, finding small ways to stay connected despite the distance.","date_published":"2025-02-01T01:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/7c95e774-8eb7-4bec-a26b-fa1f91ef2d50.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":56007351,"duration_in_seconds":4304}]},{"id":"577b730a-f27c-4d05-95f6-d7a5340d8ae6","title":"Episode 040: 1965-01-31 | Finding My Grief Pt. 3","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/040","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill writes home about receiving another letter from Suzie, buying a slide projector, and arranging for a sapphire to be sent home. He also looks ahead to a possible promotion and reflects on missing his family.\n\nAccompanied by a photo of a figure walking through a rice paddy, today’s episode continues the Finding My Grief series, exploring family legacies, lost connections, and the echoes of past generations.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nBill’s latest letter home and his plans for a gift\nReflections on fatherhood and generational change\nThe complex relationship between Popi and Mema, from their contentious first meeting to marriage\nConfronting grief and unanswered questions\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A solitary figure walking through a rice paddy, just off a main road.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyStories #Memoir #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill writes home about receiving another letter from Suzie, buying a slide projector, and arranging for a sapphire to be sent home. He also looks ahead to a possible promotion and reflects on missing his family.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo of a figure walking through a rice paddy, today’s episode continues the Finding My Grief series, exploring family legacies, lost connections, and the echoes of past generations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill’s latest letter home and his plans for a gift\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on fatherhood and generational change\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe complex relationship between Popi and Mema, from their contentious first meeting to marriage\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfronting grief and unanswered questions\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A solitary figure walking through a rice paddy, just off a main road.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyStories #Memoir #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill writes home about receiving another letter from Suzie, buying a slide projector, and arranging for a sapphire to be sent home. He also looks ahead to a possible promotion and reflects on missing his family.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo of a figure walking through a rice paddy, today’s episode continues the Finding My Grief series, exploring family legacies, lost connections, and the echoes of past generations.","date_published":"2025-01-31T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/577b730a-f27c-4d05-95f6-d7a5340d8ae6.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":19095545,"duration_in_seconds":477}]},{"id":"473080ca-24fc-40f1-b0ae-7fd8a3c52194","title":"Episode 039: 1965-01-29 | A Week Under Fire","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/039","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes a deeply emotional letter to Suzie on January 29, 1965, during a rare platoon party. He reflects on the challenges of the week, including the loss of a Christmas package, the camaraderie of his platoon, and the devastating realities of war. Popi recounts being under enemy fire 37 times in just seven days and shares a harrowing story of evacuating wounded civilians, including a young woman and her baby—a moment that profoundly affected him.\n\nAccompanied by a photo of a mother and her baby at the Bangkok Zoo, today’s episode explores the toll of war on Popi's spirit and the weight of his love for his family, which made the suffering he witnessed all the more unbearable.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nA heartfelt account of Popi’s connection to Suzie and the boys despite the distance.\nThe logistical challenges of mail in Vietnam and the loss of a meaningful Christmas package.\nThe emotional and physical toll of evacuating wounded civilians and the horrors of war.\nReflections on how these experiences affected Popi’s life, even years after the war.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A mother and her baby at the Bangkok Zoo, taken weeks after this letter was written.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #LettersFromWar #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes a deeply emotional letter to Suzie on January 29, 1965, during a rare platoon party. He reflects on the challenges of the week, including the loss of a Christmas package, the camaraderie of his platoon, and the devastating realities of war. Popi recounts being under enemy fire 37 times in just seven days and shares a harrowing story of evacuating wounded civilians, including a young woman and her baby—a moment that profoundly affected him.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo of a mother and her baby at the Bangkok Zoo, today’s episode explores the toll of war on Popi\u0026#39;s spirit and the weight of his love for his family, which made the suffering he witnessed all the more unbearable.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA heartfelt account of Popi’s connection to Suzie and the boys despite the distance.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe logistical challenges of mail in Vietnam and the loss of a meaningful Christmas package.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe emotional and physical toll of evacuating wounded civilians and the horrors of war.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on how these experiences affected Popi’s life, even years after the war.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A mother and her baby at the Bangkok Zoo, taken weeks after this letter was written.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #LettersFromWar #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi writes a deeply emotional letter to Suzie on January 29, 1965, during a rare platoon party. He reflects on the challenges of the week, including the loss of a Christmas package, the camaraderie of his platoon, and the devastating realities of war. Popi recounts being under enemy fire 37 times in just seven days and shares a harrowing story of evacuating wounded civilians, including a young woman and her baby—a moment that profoundly affected him.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo of a mother and her baby at the Bangkok Zoo, today’s episode explores the toll of war on Popi's spirit and the weight of his love for his family, which made the suffering he witnessed all the more unbearable.","date_published":"2025-01-29T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/473080ca-24fc-40f1-b0ae-7fd8a3c52194.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17849991,"duration_in_seconds":446}]},{"id":"8e91ba99-e86a-432d-a6dc-5108c963b9fb","title":"Episode 038: 1965-01-25 | Roast Beef Out The Ears","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/038","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a letter from January 25, 1965, in which Bill Lowie details his financial juggling and shares vivid, often humorous accounts of his dining experiences at the officer’s club in Vietnam. From planning thoughtful gifts for family members to navigating the costs of club dues, meals, and Christmas bills, Bill’s letter reveals the personal and logistical challenges of life overseas.\n\nAccompanied by a photo featuring the interior of an officer’s club—complete with colorful chairs, a bar, and slot machines—today’s episode offers a glimpse into the daily realities of military life, blending the mundane with the sentimental.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nBill’s budgeting struggles and thoughtful gift planning for family.\nA humorous and vivid description of the club’s meals, including the monotony of roast beef and the rare luxury of ice cream.\nInsights into military logistics, such as the Cost of Living allowance that kept soldiers out of the mess hall.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: The interior of an officer’s club, with colorful chairs, a bar, and slot machines—offering a glimpse into the social spaces of soldiers in Vietnam.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryLife #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a letter from January 25, 1965, in which Bill Lowie details his financial juggling and shares vivid, often humorous accounts of his dining experiences at the officer’s club in Vietnam. From planning thoughtful gifts for family members to navigating the costs of club dues, meals, and Christmas bills, Bill’s letter reveals the personal and logistical challenges of life overseas.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo featuring the interior of an officer’s club—complete with colorful chairs, a bar, and slot machines—today’s episode offers a glimpse into the daily realities of military life, blending the mundane with the sentimental.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill’s budgeting struggles and thoughtful gift planning for family.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA humorous and vivid description of the club’s meals, including the monotony of roast beef and the rare luxury of ice cream.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInsights into military logistics, such as the Cost of Living allowance that kept soldiers out of the mess hall.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: The interior of an officer’s club, with colorful chairs, a bar, and slot machines—offering a glimpse into the social spaces of soldiers in Vietnam.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryLife #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a letter from January 25, 1965, in which Bill Lowie details his financial juggling and shares vivid, often humorous accounts of his dining experiences at the officer’s club in Vietnam. From planning thoughtful gifts for family members to navigating the costs of club dues, meals, and Christmas bills, Bill’s letter reveals the personal and logistical challenges of life overseas.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo featuring the interior of an officer’s club—complete with colorful chairs, a bar, and slot machines—today’s episode offers a glimpse into the daily realities of military life, blending the mundane with the sentimental.","date_published":"2025-01-25T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/8e91ba99-e86a-432d-a6dc-5108c963b9fb.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":21006627,"duration_in_seconds":525}]},{"id":"d4a930c7-1fa8-4e83-96e6-bcc0564699b4","title":"Episode 037: 1965-01-23 | Finding My Grief Pt. 2","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/037","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we continue with Part 2 of Finding My Grief and hear Bill Lowie’s reflections on family, connection, and the quieter moments of war. His letter to Suzie, dated January 23, 1965, offers a glimpse into his life at the time—filled with letters from home, quiet troop lifts, and cautious optimism about upcoming R\u0026amp;R plans.\n\nAccompanied by an aerial shot showing buildings on fire, today’s episode bridges the realities of war with reflections on family and loss.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nA touching letter from Bill to Suzie, featuring updates on their family and the quiet of troop lifts.\nPart 2 of Finding My Grief, exploring the raw emotions of losing a loved one.\nReflections on family traditions, grief, and the bonds that hold us together.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: An aerial shot showing buildings on fire, likely from an attack mission Bill ran during his service.\n\n🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe! New episodes are posted regularly, sharing letters and stories from exactly 60 years ago, as written by my grandfather.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #FamilyHistory #Memoir #InheritTheStories #GriefJourney #MilitaryHistory #Podcast","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we continue with Part 2 of Finding My Grief and hear Bill Lowie’s reflections on family, connection, and the quieter moments of war. His letter to Suzie, dated January 23, 1965, offers a glimpse into his life at the time—filled with letters from home, quiet troop lifts, and cautious optimism about upcoming R\u0026amp;R plans.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by an aerial shot showing buildings on fire, today’s episode bridges the realities of war with reflections on family and loss.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA touching letter from Bill to Suzie, featuring updates on their family and the quiet of troop lifts.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePart 2 of Finding My Grief, exploring the raw emotions of losing a loved one.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on family traditions, grief, and the bonds that hold us together.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: An aerial shot showing buildings on fire, likely from an attack mission Bill ran during his service.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe! New episodes are posted regularly, sharing letters and stories from exactly 60 years ago, as written by my grandfather.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #FamilyHistory #Memoir #InheritTheStories #GriefJourney #MilitaryHistory #Podcast\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we continue with Part 2 of Finding My Grief and hear Bill Lowie’s reflections on family, connection, and the quieter moments of war. His letter to Suzie, dated January 23, 1965, offers a glimpse into his life at the time—filled with letters from home, quiet troop lifts, and cautious optimism about upcoming R\u0026R plans.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by an aerial shot showing buildings on fire, today’s episode bridges the realities of war with reflections on family and loss.","date_published":"2025-01-23T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/d4a930c7-1fa8-4e83-96e6-bcc0564699b4.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":19308704,"duration_in_seconds":482}]},{"id":"1e81ad70-3caf-4e5f-bf74-de111185cc03","title":"Episode 036: 1965-01-22 | Finding My Grief Pt. 1","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/036","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we dive into a heartfelt exploration of grief, beginning with a letter from Bill Lowie dated January 22, 1965. Bill writes to Suzie with a heavy heart, longing for her letters and sharing the latest from Vietnam, including harrowing accounts of helicopter accidents and gunship incidents.\n\nAccompanied by a deeply personal piece of creative nonfiction titled \"Finding My Grief Part 1,\" this episode reflects on loss, anger, and the enduring impact of family connections. The story recounts a poignant moment in my life when grief and frustration collided, beginning to shape my understanding of love and memory.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nA letter from Vietnam recounting a week of challenges and close calls.\nPersonal reflections on the passing of Popi and the complex emotions tied to loss.\nA creative nonfiction piece that explores grief, family, and the struggles of coping.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A Huey helicopter from the 114th Aviation’s Cobra Division, lightly hovering above the ground. Equipped with rockets, this assault ship exemplifies the resilience and power of the Huey during the Vietnam War.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #Grief #FamilyHistory #CreativeNonfiction #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we dive into a heartfelt exploration of grief, beginning with a letter from Bill Lowie dated January 22, 1965. Bill writes to Suzie with a heavy heart, longing for her letters and sharing the latest from Vietnam, including harrowing accounts of helicopter accidents and gunship incidents.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a deeply personal piece of creative nonfiction titled \u0026quot;Finding My Grief Part 1,\u0026quot; this episode reflects on loss, anger, and the enduring impact of family connections. The story recounts a poignant moment in my life when grief and frustration collided, beginning to shape my understanding of love and memory.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter from Vietnam recounting a week of challenges and close calls.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePersonal reflections on the passing of Popi and the complex emotions tied to loss.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA creative nonfiction piece that explores grief, family, and the struggles of coping.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A Huey helicopter from the 114th Aviation’s Cobra Division, lightly hovering above the ground. Equipped with rockets, this assault ship exemplifies the resilience and power of the Huey during the Vietnam War.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #Grief #FamilyHistory #CreativeNonfiction #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we dive into a heartfelt exploration of grief, beginning with a letter from Bill Lowie dated January 22, 1965. Bill writes to Suzie with a heavy heart, longing for her letters and sharing the latest from Vietnam, including harrowing accounts of helicopter accidents and gunship incidents.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a deeply personal piece of creative nonfiction titled \"Finding My Grief Part 1,\" this episode reflects on loss, anger, and the enduring impact of family connections. The story recounts a poignant moment in my life when grief and frustration collided, beginning to shape my understanding of love and memory.","date_published":"2025-01-22T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/1e81ad70-3caf-4e5f-bf74-de111185cc03.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":6751919,"duration_in_seconds":529}]},{"id":"9e80f7a7-1aef-4292-b051-a61925f75322","title":"Episode 035: 1965-01-18 | The Bob Hope Search","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/035","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie’s letter from January 18, 1965, touches on the joys and frustrations of mail delivery in Vietnam, the quiet tension of recent troop lifts, and his fondness for family photos. He reflects on a fruitcake from home, the boys’ pictures, and his gratitude for regular letters from his wife.\n\nThe episode also follows the resolution of the Bob Hope Christmas Special mystery: Was Bill featured in the broadcast? After an investigative journey through YouTube, eBay, and old DVDs, the answer proves elusive—but the process highlights the joy of discovery and preserving family history.\n\nAccompanied by a photo from a USO show, depicting musicians performing for the troops, today’s episode offers a glimpse into both the personal and communal moments that sustained soldiers far from home.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe challenges of staying connected through letters in Vietnam.\nBill’s reflections on life at home and the quiet unease of a lull in combat.\n-An investigation into the Bob Hope Christmas Special and its connection to Bill’s service.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Two women play guitar and sing into a microphone, accompanied by a drummer, at a USO show during the Vietnam War.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #USOShow #BobHope #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie’s letter from January 18, 1965, touches on the joys and frustrations of mail delivery in Vietnam, the quiet tension of recent troop lifts, and his fondness for family photos. He reflects on a fruitcake from home, the boys’ pictures, and his gratitude for regular letters from his wife.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe episode also follows the resolution of the Bob Hope Christmas Special mystery: Was Bill featured in the broadcast? After an investigative journey through YouTube, eBay, and old DVDs, the answer proves elusive—but the process highlights the joy of discovery and preserving family history.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo from a USO show, depicting musicians performing for the troops, today’s episode offers a glimpse into both the personal and communal moments that sustained soldiers far from home.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe challenges of staying connected through letters in Vietnam.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill’s reflections on life at home and the quiet unease of a lull in combat.\n-An investigation into the Bob Hope Christmas Special and its connection to Bill’s service.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Two women play guitar and sing into a microphone, accompanied by a drummer, at a USO show during the Vietnam War.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #USOShow #BobHope #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie’s letter from January 18, 1965, touches on the joys and frustrations of mail delivery in Vietnam, the quiet tension of recent troop lifts, and his fondness for family photos. He reflects on a fruitcake from home, the boys’ pictures, and his gratitude for regular letters from his wife.\r\n\r\nThe episode also follows the resolution of the Bob Hope Christmas Special mystery: Was Bill featured in the broadcast? After an investigative journey through YouTube, eBay, and old DVDs, the answer proves elusive—but the process highlights the joy of discovery and preserving family history.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo from a USO show, depicting musicians performing for the troops, today’s episode offers a glimpse into both the personal and communal moments that sustained soldiers far from home.","date_published":"2025-01-18T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/9e80f7a7-1aef-4292-b051-a61925f75322.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":15108178,"duration_in_seconds":377}]},{"id":"6b966cd1-8208-487f-9594-f468ae8ded23","title":"Episode 034: 1965-01-16 | Capturing the Moment","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/034","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on receiving letters from home, his thoughts on family trips, and the daily grind of his work in Vietnam. Amid the letter’s warmth and pragmatism, we delve into the art of photography, exploring how Popi captured moments in a warzone with his 35mm film camera—preserving history one frame at a time.\n\nAccompanied by a blurry, dreamlike photo of Charlie sitting on the ground and eating, today’s episode highlights the beauty of film photography and its role in Popi’s legacy.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nBill’s reflections on family, travel, and the pace of life in Vietnam.\nAn in-depth exploration of the 35mm film photography process.\nThe significance of Popi’s photos in preserving his wartime experiences.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A blurry yet evocative image of Charlie sitting on the ground, shirted and mid-meal—a favorite from Popi’s collection.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #FilmPhotography #MilitaryHistory #FamilyStories #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on receiving letters from home, his thoughts on family trips, and the daily grind of his work in Vietnam. Amid the letter’s warmth and pragmatism, we delve into the art of photography, exploring how Popi captured moments in a warzone with his 35mm film camera—preserving history one frame at a time.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a blurry, dreamlike photo of Charlie sitting on the ground and eating, today’s episode highlights the beauty of film photography and its role in Popi’s legacy.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill’s reflections on family, travel, and the pace of life in Vietnam.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn in-depth exploration of the 35mm film photography process.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe significance of Popi’s photos in preserving his wartime experiences.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A blurry yet evocative image of Charlie sitting on the ground, shirted and mid-meal—a favorite from Popi’s collection.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #FilmPhotography #MilitaryHistory #FamilyStories #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on receiving letters from home, his thoughts on family trips, and the daily grind of his work in Vietnam. Amid the letter’s warmth and pragmatism, we delve into the art of photography, exploring how Popi captured moments in a warzone with his 35mm film camera—preserving history one frame at a time.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a blurry, dreamlike photo of Charlie sitting on the ground and eating, today’s episode highlights the beauty of film photography and its role in Popi’s legacy.","date_published":"2025-01-16T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/6b966cd1-8208-487f-9594-f468ae8ded23.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17851035,"duration_in_seconds":446}]},{"id":"48bea086-6bf1-418e-afb7-382a4e753fa7","title":"Episode 033: 1965-01-14 | The Reluctant Instructor","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/033","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a letter where Popi reflects on his first experience as an instructor pilot and his anticipation of reaching the halfway point in his tour. As he trains new pilots by day and prepares for troop lift missions by night, we get a glimpse of his dedication and quiet humility.\n\nAccompanied by a photo of a soldier standing in front of wooden barracks, today’s episode provides a grounded look at the daily realities of life in Vietnam—homes away from home for so many soldiers.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nPopi’s new role as an instructor pilot and what it reveals about his character.\nReflections on teaching, humility, and shared inheritances.\nA personal glimpse into the living conditions of soldiers in Vietnam.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A soldier in fatigues stands before wooden barracks with screened walls, offering a window into the everyday lives of soldiers during the war.\n\n🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe! New episodes are posted regularly, sharing letters and stories from exactly 60 years ago, as written by my grandfather.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #TeachingInWar #InheritTheStories #EverydayLife","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a letter where Popi reflects on his first experience as an instructor pilot and his anticipation of reaching the halfway point in his tour. As he trains new pilots by day and prepares for troop lift missions by night, we get a glimpse of his dedication and quiet humility.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo of a soldier standing in front of wooden barracks, today’s episode provides a grounded look at the daily realities of life in Vietnam—homes away from home for so many soldiers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s new role as an instructor pilot and what it reveals about his character.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on teaching, humility, and shared inheritances.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA personal glimpse into the living conditions of soldiers in Vietnam.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A soldier in fatigues stands before wooden barracks with screened walls, offering a window into the everyday lives of soldiers during the war.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe! New episodes are posted regularly, sharing letters and stories from exactly 60 years ago, as written by my grandfather.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #TeachingInWar #InheritTheStories #EverydayLife\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a letter where Popi reflects on his first experience as an instructor pilot and his anticipation of reaching the halfway point in his tour. As he trains new pilots by day and prepares for troop lift missions by night, we get a glimpse of his dedication and quiet humility.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo of a soldier standing in front of wooden barracks, today’s episode provides a grounded look at the daily realities of life in Vietnam—homes away from home for so many soldiers.","date_published":"2025-01-14T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/48bea086-6bf1-418e-afb7-382a4e753fa7.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":13408129,"duration_in_seconds":335}]},{"id":"9af45fa7-d033-4263-8242-f4e49e33f6e3","title":"Episode 032: 1965-01-12 | Popi's Promotion","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/032","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Popi’s letter from January 12, 1965, where he shares the news of becoming an instructor pilot, the challenges of limited communication with home, and his surprising efforts to bring Charlie, a monkey he owned, back to the United States.\n\nAccompanied by a photograph of a low-flying helicopter carrying smiling soldiers, today’s episode reflects on the small joys, mounting frustrations, and unique relationships that sustained service members far from home.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nPopi’s promotion to W-1 Instructor Pilot.\nThe bond between Popi and Charlie, a monkey he hoped to bring home.\nReflections on the challenges of wartime communication.\nA broader look at connections and distractions in combat zones.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A helicopter flying low with two pilots and two gunners onboard, their smiles a momentary break from the realities of war.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyLetters #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Popi’s letter from January 12, 1965, where he shares the news of becoming an instructor pilot, the challenges of limited communication with home, and his surprising efforts to bring Charlie, a monkey he owned, back to the United States.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photograph of a low-flying helicopter carrying smiling soldiers, today’s episode reflects on the small joys, mounting frustrations, and unique relationships that sustained service members far from home.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s promotion to W-1 Instructor Pilot.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe bond between Popi and Charlie, a monkey he hoped to bring home.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on the challenges of wartime communication.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA broader look at connections and distractions in combat zones.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A helicopter flying low with two pilots and two gunners onboard, their smiles a momentary break from the realities of war.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyLetters #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Popi’s letter from January 12, 1965, where he shares the news of becoming an instructor pilot, the challenges of limited communication with home, and his surprising efforts to bring Charlie, a monkey he owned, back to the United States.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photograph of a low-flying helicopter carrying smiling soldiers, today’s episode reflects on the small joys, mounting frustrations, and unique relationships that sustained service members far from home.","date_published":"2025-01-12T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/9af45fa7-d033-4263-8242-f4e49e33f6e3.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":14815607,"duration_in_seconds":370}]},{"id":"386d2d61-95dc-4b69-9d24-7b23bf3f2a46","title":"Episode 031: 1965-01-09 | Promises and Prisoners","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/031","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on the futility of war, sharing his frustrations about a massive troop lift that yielded little result. Writing over a weekend, Bill also mentions receiving an offer to join an armed company, practicing autorotations, and his plans to bring back a special gift for Suzie. The letter closes with a heartfelt promise to be a better husband and father—a promise that carries little weight as his story in Vietnam unfolds.\n\nAccompanied by a haunting photograph of two young Vietnamese prisoners of war, today’s episode offers a poignant glimpse into the complexities of war and the emotional toll it takes on those involved.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe inefficiency of military operations in Vietnam.\nBill’s decision to decline a transfer to an armed company.\nA detailed look at helicopter autorotations and their significance.\nReflections on family, love, and promises for the future.\nA mysterious photograph of Vietnamese POWs and its implications.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Two young Vietnamese prisoners of war, hands behind their backs, with the shadow of an M-16 rifle in the frame—an image that raises more questions than it answers.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyLetters #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on the futility of war, sharing his frustrations about a massive troop lift that yielded little result. Writing over a weekend, Bill also mentions receiving an offer to join an armed company, practicing autorotations, and his plans to bring back a special gift for Suzie. The letter closes with a heartfelt promise to be a better husband and father—a promise that carries little weight as his story in Vietnam unfolds.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a haunting photograph of two young Vietnamese prisoners of war, today’s episode offers a poignant glimpse into the complexities of war and the emotional toll it takes on those involved.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe inefficiency of military operations in Vietnam.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill’s decision to decline a transfer to an armed company.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA detailed look at helicopter autorotations and their significance.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on family, love, and promises for the future.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA mysterious photograph of Vietnamese POWs and its implications.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Two young Vietnamese prisoners of war, hands behind their backs, with the shadow of an M-16 rifle in the frame—an image that raises more questions than it answers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyLetters #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on the futility of war, sharing his frustrations about a massive troop lift that yielded little result. Writing over a weekend, Bill also mentions receiving an offer to join an armed company, practicing autorotations, and his plans to bring back a special gift for Suzie. The letter closes with a heartfelt promise to be a better husband and father—a promise that carries little weight as his story in Vietnam unfolds.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a haunting photograph of two young Vietnamese prisoners of war, today’s episode offers a poignant glimpse into the complexities of war and the emotional toll it takes on those involved.","date_published":"2025-01-09T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/386d2d61-95dc-4b69-9d24-7b23bf3f2a46.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":16080978,"duration_in_seconds":402}]},{"id":"f4df4629-4bb2-4cf4-b713-dd9a98345798","title":"Episode 030: 1965-01-03 | Introducing Charlie","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/030","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we meet Charlie, Popi’s mischievous pet monkey in Vietnam. Charlie, a macaque, became a beloved and quirky part of Popi’s life during his service, complete with a custom-made military-style jacket stitched by local nuns. Through Popi’s letter and family anecdotes, this episode explores the humor and humanity that Charlie brought amidst the challenges of wartime.\n\nAccompanied by a photo of Charlie sitting on the officer’s club bar in his miniature uniform, today’s episode offers a heartfelt and lighthearted look at unexpected bonds, cultural intersections, and the humorous stories that endure across generations.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nCharlie’s introduction and the story behind his military-inspired jacket.\nThe relationship between Popi and his pet monkey, including lighthearted mischief.\nA family heirloom: Charlie’s jacket and its journey through generations.\nReflections on pets in wartime and Popi’s efforts to bring Charlie home.\nThe cultural and symbolic significance of Charlie’s name.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Charlie, wearing his tailored uniform, sitting on the officer’s club bar — a moment of levity before the monkey’s mischief began.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #CharlieTheMonkey #WartimePets #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we meet Charlie, Popi’s mischievous pet monkey in Vietnam. Charlie, a macaque, became a beloved and quirky part of Popi’s life during his service, complete with a custom-made military-style jacket stitched by local nuns. Through Popi’s letter and family anecdotes, this episode explores the humor and humanity that Charlie brought amidst the challenges of wartime.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo of Charlie sitting on the officer’s club bar in his miniature uniform, today’s episode offers a heartfelt and lighthearted look at unexpected bonds, cultural intersections, and the humorous stories that endure across generations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCharlie’s introduction and the story behind his military-inspired jacket.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe relationship between Popi and his pet monkey, including lighthearted mischief.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA family heirloom: Charlie’s jacket and its journey through generations.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on pets in wartime and Popi’s efforts to bring Charlie home.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe cultural and symbolic significance of Charlie’s name.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Charlie, wearing his tailored uniform, sitting on the officer’s club bar — a moment of levity before the monkey’s mischief began.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #CharlieTheMonkey #WartimePets #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we meet Charlie, Popi’s mischievous pet monkey in Vietnam. Charlie, a macaque, became a beloved and quirky part of Popi’s life during his service, complete with a custom-made military-style jacket stitched by local nuns. Through Popi’s letter and family anecdotes, this episode explores the humor and humanity that Charlie brought amidst the challenges of wartime.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo of Charlie sitting on the officer’s club bar in his miniature uniform, today’s episode offers a heartfelt and lighthearted look at unexpected bonds, cultural intersections, and the humorous stories that endure across generations.","date_published":"2025-01-03T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/f4df4629-4bb2-4cf4-b713-dd9a98345798.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17525027,"duration_in_seconds":438}]},{"id":"6e5c4d94-c05b-4be6-8745-b80fbde72c2e","title":"Episode 029: 1965-01-02 | New Year, Same War","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/029","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we look at a January 2, 1965, letter from Bill Lowie. Writing from Vietnam, Popi reflects on a year that holds the promise of reunion, shares updates about his daily life, and recounts a thoughtful gesture—donating a puzzle to a local orphanage after completing it.\n\nPopi’s words capture the quiet routine of a soldier’s downtime, interspersed with brief missions, lingering colds, and moments of connection to loved ones back home. We also explore a family story about a pecan pie that didn’t survive the journey to Vietnam, offering a glimpse into Mema’s youthful determination to bring a taste of home to her husband.\n\nAccompanied by a photo of a child chasing cows near a helicopter in a field, today’s episode highlights the juxtaposition of innocence and war, as well as a humorous family story about Mema’s attempt to mail a pecan pie to Vietnam.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nPopi’s reflections on the new year and his hope to reunite with family.\nThe significance of local orphanages and Popi’s connection to them.\nA humorous story about Mema mailing a pecan pie to Vietnam.\nThe everyday challenges of downtime, illness, and waiting for payday.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A child chasing cows in a field near a helicopter, juxtaposing innocence and the presence of war.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #BillLowieLetters #InnocenceAndWar #HistoricalPodcast #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we look at a January 2, 1965, letter from Bill Lowie. Writing from Vietnam, Popi reflects on a year that holds the promise of reunion, shares updates about his daily life, and recounts a thoughtful gesture—donating a puzzle to a local orphanage after completing it.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePopi’s words capture the quiet routine of a soldier’s downtime, interspersed with brief missions, lingering colds, and moments of connection to loved ones back home. We also explore a family story about a pecan pie that didn’t survive the journey to Vietnam, offering a glimpse into Mema’s youthful determination to bring a taste of home to her husband.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo of a child chasing cows near a helicopter in a field, today’s episode highlights the juxtaposition of innocence and war, as well as a humorous family story about Mema’s attempt to mail a pecan pie to Vietnam.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s reflections on the new year and his hope to reunite with family.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe significance of local orphanages and Popi’s connection to them.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA humorous story about Mema mailing a pecan pie to Vietnam.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe everyday challenges of downtime, illness, and waiting for payday.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A child chasing cows in a field near a helicopter, juxtaposing innocence and the presence of war.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #BillLowieLetters #InnocenceAndWar #HistoricalPodcast #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we look at a January 2, 1965, letter from Bill Lowie. Writing from Vietnam, Popi reflects on a year that holds the promise of reunion, shares updates about his daily life, and recounts a thoughtful gesture—donating a puzzle to a local orphanage after completing it.\r\n\r\nPopi’s words capture the quiet routine of a soldier’s downtime, interspersed with brief missions, lingering colds, and moments of connection to loved ones back home. We also explore a family story about a pecan pie that didn’t survive the journey to Vietnam, offering a glimpse into Mema’s youthful determination to bring a taste of home to her husband.","date_published":"2025-01-02T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/6e5c4d94-c05b-4be6-8745-b80fbde72c2e.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":13802056,"duration_in_seconds":345}]},{"id":"c4c1f29a-a6bf-436a-9224-9d74841182c7","title":"All Episodes, December 1964","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/december","content_text":"In this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we reflect on the December 1964 letters from Bill Lowie, offering a snapshot of the challenges and small comforts of a soldier's life during the Vietnam War. From navigating dangerous flights over the ocean to moments of nostalgia sparked by a French beachside hotel, this month reveals the duality of war—where peril and longing for home coexist.\n\nBill’s letters recount improving mail delivery that brought treasured connections, the harrowing realities of his missions, and his hope to hear his son’s voice on a tape recording. With reflections on paydays, camaraderie, and even a fleeting appearance at a Bob Hope show, December paints a vivid picture of life in wartime Vietnam as one year closes and another approaches.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #1964Vietnam #BillLowieLetters #InheritTheStories #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #VietnamLetters #CombatStories #WarDiaries #DecemberRecap #HistoricalPodcast","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we reflect on the December 1964 letters from Bill Lowie, offering a snapshot of the challenges and small comforts of a soldier\u0026#39;s life during the Vietnam War. From navigating dangerous flights over the ocean to moments of nostalgia sparked by a French beachside hotel, this month reveals the duality of war—where peril and longing for home coexist.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBill’s letters recount improving mail delivery that brought treasured connections, the harrowing realities of his missions, and his hope to hear his son’s voice on a tape recording. With reflections on paydays, camaraderie, and even a fleeting appearance at a Bob Hope show, December paints a vivid picture of life in wartime Vietnam as one year closes and another approaches.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #1964Vietnam #BillLowieLetters #InheritTheStories #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #VietnamLetters #CombatStories #WarDiaries #DecemberRecap #HistoricalPodcast\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we reflect on the December 1964 letters from Bill Lowie, offering a snapshot of the challenges and small comforts of a soldier's life during the Vietnam War. From navigating dangerous flights over the ocean to moments of nostalgia sparked by a French beachside hotel, this month reveals the duality of war—where peril and longing for home coexist.\r\n\r\nBill’s letters recount improving mail delivery that brought treasured connections, the harrowing realities of his missions, and his hope to hear his son’s voice on a tape recording. With reflections on paydays, camaraderie, and even a fleeting appearance at a Bob Hope show, December paints a vivid picture of life in wartime Vietnam as one year closes and another approaches.","date_published":"2025-01-01T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/c4c1f29a-a6bf-436a-9224-9d74841182c7.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":26344200,"duration_in_seconds":1909}]},{"id":"e98cc5e6-3820-42e3-8107-78b8ee7fe2ee","title":"Episode 028: 1964-12-30 | The Last Letter of 1964","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/028","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Bill Lowie’s final letter of 1964, written just after Christmas. Bill reflects on the joy of receiving mail from loved ones and the emotional boost it provides, even in a war zone. He shares details of a brief stay in Na Trang, a picturesque French-influenced coastal town, and recounts a harrowing journey back, flying low over the ocean due to dangerous weather and mountainous terrain.\n\nAccompanied by a photo of men preparing to jump into the ocean at a rocky beach, today’s episode offers a glimpse into moments of respite, the challenges of travel, and the vital connection soldiers maintained with home.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe emotional impact of receiving mail on soldiers’ morale.\nPopi’s longing to hear Brett’s voice through a tape recording.\nNa Trang’s French colonial legacy and its comparison to Daytona Beach.\nThe dangers of low-altitude flying over the ocean.\nThe practical and emotional significance of payday for soldiers.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A group of men preparing to jump into the ocean at a rocky beach, evoking thoughts of coastal escapes like Na Trang and Daytona Beach.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #NaTrang #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Bill Lowie’s final letter of 1964, written just after Christmas. Bill reflects on the joy of receiving mail from loved ones and the emotional boost it provides, even in a war zone. He shares details of a brief stay in Na Trang, a picturesque French-influenced coastal town, and recounts a harrowing journey back, flying low over the ocean due to dangerous weather and mountainous terrain.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo of men preparing to jump into the ocean at a rocky beach, today’s episode offers a glimpse into moments of respite, the challenges of travel, and the vital connection soldiers maintained with home.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe emotional impact of receiving mail on soldiers’ morale.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s longing to hear Brett’s voice through a tape recording.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNa Trang’s French colonial legacy and its comparison to Daytona Beach.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe dangers of low-altitude flying over the ocean.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe practical and emotional significance of payday for soldiers.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A group of men preparing to jump into the ocean at a rocky beach, evoking thoughts of coastal escapes like Na Trang and Daytona Beach.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #NaTrang #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Bill Lowie’s final letter of 1964, written just after Christmas. Bill reflects on the joy of receiving mail from loved ones and the emotional boost it provides, even in a war zone. He shares details of a brief stay in Na Trang, a picturesque French-influenced coastal town, and recounts a harrowing journey back, flying low over the ocean due to dangerous weather and mountainous terrain.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo of men preparing to jump into the ocean at a rocky beach, today’s episode offers a glimpse into moments of respite, the challenges of travel, and the vital connection soldiers maintained with home.","date_published":"2024-12-30T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/e98cc5e6-3820-42e3-8107-78b8ee7fe2ee.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17819688,"duration_in_seconds":445}]},{"id":"b3273589-37a1-4ee0-9f4f-6bb0a01bbfe5","title":"Episode 027: 1964-12-26 | Bob Hope and Mema’s Mom ","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/027","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we step into the bittersweet Christmas of 1964, as Bill reflects on his holiday away from home. Though far from his family, Bill finds joy in the small comforts of a hearty dinner, a walk through town with a camera, and the long-awaited arrival of letters and packages from loved ones. Amid the chaos of war, these moments offered a rare sense of connection and normalcy.\n\nBill also writes about Bob Hope’s USO tour, which brought much-needed levity to the troops. While he missed the show in Vinh Long, Bill shares the amusing detail that Hope played with Charlie, a mischievous monkey beloved by the soldiers. Hope’s humor and humanity served as a lifeline for many during the war, and we’ll explore his enduring legacy in future episodes.\n\nThe letter also touches on Bill’s pragmatic approach to planning—a trip to Bangkok, saving money, and delaying purchases—all of which highlight how soldiers coped by focusing on the future. But even amidst practical details, the reality of war lurks: Bill’s gratitude for a day without flying is a stark reminder of the dangers he faced daily.\n\nToday’s episode also delves into family dynamics. Bill’s heartfelt gratitude for a card from Suzie’s mother—who signed it “Mom”—reveals surprising tenderness in a relationship Suzie didn’t recall as close. Meanwhile, a letter from Minnie, Suzie’s older sister, brings a touch of humor and connection from home, with a school photo of her son Michael.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nChristmas celebrations in Vietnam and the importance of connection through letters and packages.\nThe cultural and emotional impact of Bob Hope’s USO tours.\nThe tension between the mundane and the mortal in Bill’s reflections on flying and danger.\nFamily bonds and surprising gestures of kindness from Suzie’s mother and sister.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A soldier dances with a woman on a USO stage, offering a glimpse into the kinds of shows that brought joy to soldiers stationed far from home.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #USOShows #BobHope #MilitaryHistory #FamilyLetters #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we step into the bittersweet Christmas of 1964, as Bill reflects on his holiday away from home. Though far from his family, Bill finds joy in the small comforts of a hearty dinner, a walk through town with a camera, and the long-awaited arrival of letters and packages from loved ones. Amid the chaos of war, these moments offered a rare sense of connection and normalcy.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBill also writes about Bob Hope’s USO tour, which brought much-needed levity to the troops. While he missed the show in Vinh Long, Bill shares the amusing detail that Hope played with Charlie, a mischievous monkey beloved by the soldiers. Hope’s humor and humanity served as a lifeline for many during the war, and we’ll explore his enduring legacy in future episodes.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe letter also touches on Bill’s pragmatic approach to planning—a trip to Bangkok, saving money, and delaying purchases—all of which highlight how soldiers coped by focusing on the future. But even amidst practical details, the reality of war lurks: Bill’s gratitude for a day without flying is a stark reminder of the dangers he faced daily.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eToday’s episode also delves into family dynamics. Bill’s heartfelt gratitude for a card from Suzie’s mother—who signed it “Mom”—reveals surprising tenderness in a relationship Suzie didn’t recall as close. Meanwhile, a letter from Minnie, Suzie’s older sister, brings a touch of humor and connection from home, with a school photo of her son Michael.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChristmas celebrations in Vietnam and the importance of connection through letters and packages.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe cultural and emotional impact of Bob Hope’s USO tours.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe tension between the mundane and the mortal in Bill’s reflections on flying and danger.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFamily bonds and surprising gestures of kindness from Suzie’s mother and sister.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A soldier dances with a woman on a USO stage, offering a glimpse into the kinds of shows that brought joy to soldiers stationed far from home.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #USOShows #BobHope #MilitaryHistory #FamilyLetters #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we step into the bittersweet Christmas of 1964, as Bill reflects on his holiday away from home. Though far from his family, Bill finds joy in the small comforts of a hearty dinner, a walk through town with a camera, and the long-awaited arrival of letters and packages from loved ones. Amid the chaos of war, these moments offered a rare sense of connection and normalcy.\r\n\r\nBill also writes about Bob Hope’s USO tour, which brought much-needed levity to the troops. While he missed the show in Vinh Long, Bill shares the amusing detail that Hope played with Charlie, a mischievous monkey beloved by the soldiers. Hope’s humor and humanity served as a lifeline for many during the war, and we’ll explore his enduring legacy in future episodes.\r\n\r\nThe letter also touches on Bill’s pragmatic approach to planning—a trip to Bangkok, saving money, and delaying purchases—all of which highlight how soldiers coped by focusing on the future. But even amidst practical details, the reality of war lurks: Bill’s gratitude for a day without flying is a stark reminder of the dangers he faced daily.\r\n\r\nToday’s episode also delves into family dynamics. Bill’s heartfelt gratitude for a card from Suzie’s mother—who signed it “Mom”—reveals surprising tenderness in a relationship Suzie didn’t recall as close. Meanwhile, a letter from Minnie, Suzie’s older sister, brings a touch of humor and connection from home, with a school photo of her son Michael.","date_published":"2024-12-26T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/b3273589-37a1-4ee0-9f4f-6bb0a01bbfe5.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":18826970,"duration_in_seconds":470}]},{"id":"9f03c07e-53fb-453c-81c2-d9f7c31d37e0","title":"Episode 026: 1964-12-23 | Duck Eggs and Christmas Freedom","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/026","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we read Popi’s heartfelt letter to Mema, dated December 23, 1967—the last he wrote before Christmas that year. Reflecting on the struggles of distance, Popi shares news of life on base, a clipping from the Saigon paper, and his thoughts on holiday meals.\n\nWe also include President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Christmas message to Americans serving in Vietnam, written on the same day, as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those far from home.\n\nFinally, I take a moment to reflect on what this project has meant to me and express my gratitude to the family and friends who have supported this journey.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nPopi’s reflections on missing family during Christmas.\nA humorous look at misinformation in the Saigon paper.\nPresident Johnson’s Christmas message to Americans in Vietnam.\nPersonal reflections on the podcast’s journey and its importance.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Popi stands in front of a fountain with two friends, likely on leave. One of the few photos where he’s smiling, it captures a rare moment of levity during his time in Vietnam.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #ChristmasInVietnam #MilitaryHistory #FamilyStories #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we read Popi’s heartfelt letter to Mema, dated December 23, 1967—the last he wrote before Christmas that year. Reflecting on the struggles of distance, Popi shares news of life on base, a clipping from the Saigon paper, and his thoughts on holiday meals.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWe also include President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Christmas message to Americans serving in Vietnam, written on the same day, as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those far from home.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFinally, I take a moment to reflect on what this project has meant to me and express my gratitude to the family and friends who have supported this journey.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s reflections on missing family during Christmas.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA humorous look at misinformation in the Saigon paper.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePresident Johnson’s Christmas message to Americans in Vietnam.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePersonal reflections on the podcast’s journey and its importance.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Popi stands in front of a fountain with two friends, likely on leave. One of the few photos where he’s smiling, it captures a rare moment of levity during his time in Vietnam.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #ChristmasInVietnam #MilitaryHistory #FamilyStories #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we read Popi’s heartfelt letter to Mema, dated December 23, 1967—the last he wrote before Christmas that year. Reflecting on the struggles of distance, Popi shares news of life on base, a clipping from the Saigon paper, and his thoughts on holiday meals.\r\n\r\nWe also include President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Christmas message to Americans serving in Vietnam, written on the same day, as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those far from home.\r\n\r\nFinally, I take a moment to reflect on what this project has meant to me and express my gratitude to the family and friends who have supported this journey.","date_published":"2024-12-23T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/9f03c07e-53fb-453c-81c2-d9f7c31d37e0.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17937762,"duration_in_seconds":448}]},{"id":"74a7b922-b060-4feb-92c4-aed50a4f3aff","title":"Episode 025: 1964-12-21 | No Christmas in Vietnam","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/025","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a letter from December 21, 1964, where Bill reflects on the absence of Christmas spirit in Vietnam. He shares his longing for home, his thoughts on the Armed Forces Network’s lack of holiday music, and updates on life in the field, including quiet troop lifts and the intriguing presence of German Shepherds donated by Germany.\n\nAccompanied by a photo of a common space at Vinh Long Airfield, this episode delves into the emotional challenges of wartime separation and the role of radio, games like Pinochle, and small comforts in maintaining morale.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nPopi’s reflections on Christmas away from home.\nThe importance of AEN and its portrayal in Good Morning, Vietnam.\nA history and overview of the card game Pinochle.\nReflections on holiday traditions during wartime.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A common-space building at Vinh Long Airfield with a sign bearing the 114th Aviation Company crest—a black knight chess piece with wings against a yellow and blue shield.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #AFN #GoodMorningVietnam #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a letter from December 21, 1964, where Bill reflects on the absence of Christmas spirit in Vietnam. He shares his longing for home, his thoughts on the Armed Forces Network’s lack of holiday music, and updates on life in the field, including quiet troop lifts and the intriguing presence of German Shepherds donated by Germany.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo of a common space at Vinh Long Airfield, this episode delves into the emotional challenges of wartime separation and the role of radio, games like Pinochle, and small comforts in maintaining morale.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s reflections on Christmas away from home.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe importance of AEN and its portrayal in Good Morning, Vietnam.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA history and overview of the card game Pinochle.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on holiday traditions during wartime.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A common-space building at Vinh Long Airfield with a sign bearing the 114th Aviation Company crest—a black knight chess piece with wings against a yellow and blue shield.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #AFN #GoodMorningVietnam #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a letter from December 21, 1964, where Bill reflects on the absence of Christmas spirit in Vietnam. He shares his longing for home, his thoughts on the Armed Forces Network’s lack of holiday music, and updates on life in the field, including quiet troop lifts and the intriguing presence of German Shepherds donated by Germany.","date_published":"2024-12-21T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/74a7b922-b060-4feb-92c4-aed50a4f3aff.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17436211,"duration_in_seconds":435}]},{"id":"bbd60564-4996-46e1-b9f1-b685e94b0de9","title":"Episode 024: 1964-12-06 | Unka Bill’s Souvenirs","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/024","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on a day of flying in Vietnam, where he transports a full colonel and gets a close-up view of the ongoing combat. Surprisingly unfazed after being shot at, he confronts the disquieting realization that fearlessness may bring its own dangers. Bill also shares a heartfelt account of sending gifts home—silver jewelry for family members—which reveals a softer, more personal side of his wartime experience.\n\nAccompanied by a photo of local artisans working under a bamboo structure, today's episode examines the dual roles of soldiers as both combatants and collectors. It invites us to ponder the significance of wartime souvenirs: their purpose, their emotional weight, and the connections they forge between past and present.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nReflections on fear and composure during a combat mission.\nA glimpse into wartime gift-giving and its cultural and personal implications.\nThe paradox of soldiers acting as tourists, collecting artifacts from war zones.\nThe historical and emotional value of the souvenirs Bill sent home.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A bamboo structure with a palm-frond roof, housing men working with hand tools on wooden boards—a woodworking shop or craft area likely tied to the Vietnam War era.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #Souvenirs #MilitaryLife #FearAndCourage #HistoryPodcast #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on a day of flying in Vietnam, where he transports a full colonel and gets a close-up view of the ongoing combat. Surprisingly unfazed after being shot at, he confronts the disquieting realization that fearlessness may bring its own dangers. Bill also shares a heartfelt account of sending gifts home—silver jewelry for family members—which reveals a softer, more personal side of his wartime experience.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo of local artisans working under a bamboo structure, today\u0026#39;s episode examines the dual roles of soldiers as both combatants and collectors. It invites us to ponder the significance of wartime souvenirs: their purpose, their emotional weight, and the connections they forge between past and present.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on fear and composure during a combat mission.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA glimpse into wartime gift-giving and its cultural and personal implications.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe paradox of soldiers acting as tourists, collecting artifacts from war zones.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe historical and emotional value of the souvenirs Bill sent home.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A bamboo structure with a palm-frond roof, housing men working with hand tools on wooden boards—a woodworking shop or craft area likely tied to the Vietnam War era.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #Souvenirs #MilitaryLife #FearAndCourage #HistoryPodcast #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on a day of flying in Vietnam, where he transports a full colonel and gets a close-up view of the ongoing combat. Surprisingly unfazed after being shot at, he confronts the disquieting realization that fearlessness may bring its own dangers. Bill also shares a heartfelt account of sending gifts home—silver jewelry for family members—which reveals a softer, more personal side of his wartime experience.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo of local artisans working under a bamboo structure, today's episode examines the dual roles of soldiers as both combatants and collectors. It invites us to ponder the significance of wartime souvenirs: their purpose, their emotional weight, and the connections they forge between past and present.","date_published":"2024-12-06T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/bbd60564-4996-46e1-b9f1-b685e94b0de9.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17134235,"duration_in_seconds":428}]},{"id":"8a3e6065-1ba7-4c9c-83de-88b1b1ec6214","title":"All Episodes, November 1964","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/november","content_text":"In this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into the November 1964 entries from Bill Lowie’s Vietnam War diary. This pivotal month captures a blend of harrowing missions, fleeting moments of rest, and deeply personal reflections as Bill transitions from diary-keeping to his first letters home. From the challenges of troop transport and medevac missions to his thoughts on the complex political and cultural dynamics of the war, November offers a heartfelt look at the day-to-day realities of a U.S. Army pilot.\n\nThrough Bill’s words and photographs, experience the duality of combat and camaraderie, isolation and connection, as he navigates a world far from home yet brimming with shared humanity.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #1964Vietnam #BillLowieDiaries #InheritTheStories #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #VietnamDiary #CombatStories #WarDiaries #NovemberRecap #TroopTransport #Medevac #OutpostChallenges #JungleWarfare #HistoricalPodcast","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into the November 1964 entries from Bill Lowie’s Vietnam War diary. This pivotal month captures a blend of harrowing missions, fleeting moments of rest, and deeply personal reflections as Bill transitions from diary-keeping to his first letters home. From the challenges of troop transport and medevac missions to his thoughts on the complex political and cultural dynamics of the war, November offers a heartfelt look at the day-to-day realities of a U.S. Army pilot.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThrough Bill’s words and photographs, experience the duality of combat and camaraderie, isolation and connection, as he navigates a world far from home yet brimming with shared humanity.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #1964Vietnam #BillLowieDiaries #InheritTheStories #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #VietnamDiary #CombatStories #WarDiaries #NovemberRecap #TroopTransport #Medevac #OutpostChallenges #JungleWarfare #HistoricalPodcast\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into the November 1964 entries from Bill Lowie’s Vietnam War diary. This pivotal month captures a blend of harrowing missions, fleeting moments of rest, and deeply personal reflections as Bill transitions from diary-keeping to his first letters home. From the challenges of troop transport and medevac missions to his thoughts on the complex political and cultural dynamics of the war, November offers a heartfelt look at the day-to-day realities of a U.S. Army pilot.\r\n\r\nThrough Bill’s words and photographs, experience the duality of combat and camaraderie, isolation and connection, as he navigates a world far from home yet brimming with shared humanity.","date_published":"2024-12-01T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/8a3e6065-1ba7-4c9c-83de-88b1b1ec6214.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":49558829,"duration_in_seconds":3694}]},{"id":"cc37fe94-e9b8-4005-8ddd-ef182b92cf04","title":"Episode 023: 1964-11-30 | The First Letter","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/023","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Popi’s first letter to Suzie, written on November 30, 1964. After a grueling month of flying missions in Vietnam, Popi shares the horrors he witnessed, including the devastating aftermath of an overrun outpost. His raw, emotional words provide a haunting glimpse into the realities of war and the burdens carried by those back home.\n\nAccompanied by a striking photo of a co-pilot banking above a burning village, today's episode delves into the weight of addiction, legacy, and how personal choices are shaped by the past.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nPopi’s account of a harrowing mission and its emotional toll.\nThe complexities of sharing painful truths with loved ones.\nReflections on the impact of addiction and its echoes through generations.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A co-pilot banking over a burning village, potentially linked to Popi’s November 30 mission.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #LettersFromVietnam #AddictionRecovery #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Popi’s first letter to Suzie, written on November 30, 1964. After a grueling month of flying missions in Vietnam, Popi shares the horrors he witnessed, including the devastating aftermath of an overrun outpost. His raw, emotional words provide a haunting glimpse into the realities of war and the burdens carried by those back home.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a striking photo of a co-pilot banking above a burning village, today\u0026#39;s episode delves into the weight of addiction, legacy, and how personal choices are shaped by the past.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s account of a harrowing mission and its emotional toll.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe complexities of sharing painful truths with loved ones.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on the impact of addiction and its echoes through generations.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A co-pilot banking over a burning village, potentially linked to Popi’s November 30 mission.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #LettersFromVietnam #AddictionRecovery #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Popi’s first letter to Suzie, written on November 30, 1964. After a grueling month of flying missions in Vietnam, Popi shares the horrors he witnessed, including the devastating aftermath of an overrun outpost. His raw, emotional words provide a haunting glimpse into the realities of war and the burdens carried by those back home.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a striking photo of a co-pilot banking above a burning village, today's episode delves into the weight of addiction, legacy, and how personal choices are shaped by the past.","date_published":"2024-11-30T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/cc37fe94-e9b8-4005-8ddd-ef182b92cf04.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":18768456,"duration_in_seconds":469}]},{"id":"df700491-39dc-4a42-85bc-c1765f3c04dc","title":"Episode 022: 1964-11-25 | The Final Diary Entry","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/022","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we read the final entry from Bill Lowie's Vietnam War diary, dated Wednesday, November 25, 1964. Bill reflects on an unusually quiet week in the Corps area, reports of new Viet Cong battalions arriving, and a reconnaissance mission along the Cambodian border that highlights the moral ambiguities and tactical challenges of the conflict.\n\nAs the diary closes, we transition to a new chapter of his story: the letters he wrote to his wife, Suzie, back home in Florida. These letters, written with a softer tone for his family, offer a contrasting glimpse into the war’s impact on both soldier and family.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nCivil unrest and curfews in Saigon during late 1964.\nThe complexities of recon missions and the role of informants.\nReflections on the significance of Bill's diary and its abrupt conclusion.\nA preview of the upcoming letters.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A woman in a white dress, seated on a motorized bicycle, captures the tension between innocence and secrecy in a war-torn landscape.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #Informants #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we read the final entry from Bill Lowie\u0026#39;s Vietnam War diary, dated Wednesday, November 25, 1964. Bill reflects on an unusually quiet week in the Corps area, reports of new Viet Cong battalions arriving, and a reconnaissance mission along the Cambodian border that highlights the moral ambiguities and tactical challenges of the conflict.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs the diary closes, we transition to a new chapter of his story: the letters he wrote to his wife, Suzie, back home in Florida. These letters, written with a softer tone for his family, offer a contrasting glimpse into the war’s impact on both soldier and family.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCivil unrest and curfews in Saigon during late 1964.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe complexities of recon missions and the role of informants.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on the significance of Bill\u0026#39;s diary and its abrupt conclusion.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA preview of the upcoming letters.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A woman in a white dress, seated on a motorized bicycle, captures the tension between innocence and secrecy in a war-torn landscape.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #Informants #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we read the final entry from Bill Lowie's Vietnam War diary, dated Wednesday, November 25, 1964. Bill reflects on an unusually quiet week in the Corps area, reports of new Viet Cong battalions arriving, and a reconnaissance mission along the Cambodian border that highlights the moral ambiguities and tactical challenges of the conflict.\r\n\r\nAs the diary closes, we transition to a new chapter of his story: the letters he wrote to his wife, Suzie, back home in Florida. These letters, written with a softer tone for his family, offer a contrasting glimpse into the war’s impact on both soldier and family.","date_published":"2024-11-25T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/df700491-39dc-4a42-85bc-c1765f3c04dc.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17276342,"duration_in_seconds":431}]},{"id":"592ce332-7c18-43df-9e1f-fba3eabe30f3","title":"Episode 021: 1964-11-18 | Casualties in the Cafeteria ","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/021","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into one of the most intense days of the Vietnam War as described in Bill Lowie's diary entry from November 18, 1964. Dubbed the \"biggest troop lift in the history of war,\" this operation saw every UH-1B helicopter outfit in central and southern Vietnam mobilized under the command of General Nguyễn Khánh.\n\nFrom pre-dawn takeoffs to the dangerous landings under fire, Popi recounts the challenges of transporting thousands of troops across hostile terrain. Meanwhile, the day’s events take a tragic turn when a Viet Cong saboteur plants a bomb in the cafeteria at Tân Sơn Nhất Airport, killing several Americans and reminding us of the unpredictability of the conflict.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe largest helicopter troop lift of the Vietnam War, involving over 100 aircraft.\nThe role of strafing and bombing in preparing the landing zones.\nThe Viet Cong's deadly attack on Tân Sơn Nhất Airport during the operation.\nReflections on General Nguyễn Khánh’s leadership and the broader challenges of the war.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A striking aerial view captured by Popi during the mission, showcasing the aftermath of a bombing run, providing a rare glimpse into the war as he saw it.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #GeneralNguyenKhanh #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into one of the most intense days of the Vietnam War as described in Bill Lowie\u0026#39;s diary entry from November 18, 1964. Dubbed the \u0026quot;biggest troop lift in the history of war,\u0026quot; this operation saw every UH-1B helicopter outfit in central and southern Vietnam mobilized under the command of General Nguyễn Khánh.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFrom pre-dawn takeoffs to the dangerous landings under fire, Popi recounts the challenges of transporting thousands of troops across hostile terrain. Meanwhile, the day’s events take a tragic turn when a Viet Cong saboteur plants a bomb in the cafeteria at Tân Sơn Nhất Airport, killing several Americans and reminding us of the unpredictability of the conflict.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe largest helicopter troop lift of the Vietnam War, involving over 100 aircraft.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe role of strafing and bombing in preparing the landing zones.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Viet Cong\u0026#39;s deadly attack on Tân Sơn Nhất Airport during the operation.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on General Nguyễn Khánh’s leadership and the broader challenges of the war.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A striking aerial view captured by Popi during the mission, showcasing the aftermath of a bombing run, providing a rare glimpse into the war as he saw it.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #GeneralNguyenKhanh #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into one of the most intense days of the Vietnam War as described in Bill Lowie's diary entry from November 18, 1964. Dubbed the \"biggest troop lift in the history of war,\" this operation saw every UH-1B helicopter outfit in central and southern Vietnam mobilized under the command of General Nguyễn Khánh.\r\n\r\nFrom pre-dawn takeoffs to the dangerous landings under fire, Popi recounts the challenges of transporting thousands of troops across hostile terrain. Meanwhile, the day’s events take a tragic turn when a Viet Cong saboteur plants a bomb in the cafeteria at Tân Sơn Nhất Airport, killing several Americans and reminding us of the unpredictability of the conflict.","date_published":"2024-11-18T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/592ce332-7c18-43df-9e1f-fba3eabe30f3.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":18131068,"duration_in_seconds":453}]},{"id":"884e888d-bc58-4d62-8a4e-79fef5f6876a","title":"Episode 020: 1964-11-17 | The Forgotten Folder","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/020","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on a typhoon that narrowly missed their base and an impending troop lift to Saigon. This seemingly calm diary entry contrasts with the emotional weight of rediscovered family photos from Vietnam—slides that have become central to preserving and sharing his legacy.\n\nAccompanied by a humorous photo Popi's friends, including his best friend Bud Bender, today’s episode explores the personal meaning behind these images, their role in reconnecting with family history, and the broader questions they evoke about purpose and memory in the Vietnam War.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n-The narrow avoidance of a typhoon and preparations for a troop lift.\n-The rediscovery of Popi’s Vietnam slides and their significance in family storytelling.\n-Reflections on how soldiers’ beliefs about the war shape their actions and our understanding of history.\n-A personal connection through family slides and sharing stories with younger generations.\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A candid moment featuring Popi's friends, including Bud Bender during their service, blending humor with deeper reflections on the soldiers’ experiences.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #FamilyHistory #MemoryAndLegacy #MilitaryStories #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on a typhoon that narrowly missed their base and an impending troop lift to Saigon. This seemingly calm diary entry contrasts with the emotional weight of rediscovered family photos from Vietnam—slides that have become central to preserving and sharing his legacy.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a humorous photo Popi\u0026#39;s friends, including his best friend Bud Bender, today’s episode explores the personal meaning behind these images, their role in reconnecting with family history, and the broader questions they evoke about purpose and memory in the Vietnam War.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003cbr\u003e\n-The narrow avoidance of a typhoon and preparations for a troop lift.\u003cbr\u003e\n-The rediscovery of Popi’s Vietnam slides and their significance in family storytelling.\u003cbr\u003e\n-Reflections on how soldiers’ beliefs about the war shape their actions and our understanding of history.\u003cbr\u003e\n-A personal connection through family slides and sharing stories with younger generations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A candid moment featuring Popi\u0026#39;s friends, including Bud Bender during their service, blending humor with deeper reflections on the soldiers’ experiences.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #FamilyHistory #MemoryAndLegacy #MilitaryStories #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie reflects on a typhoon that narrowly missed their base and an impending troop lift to Saigon. This seemingly calm diary entry contrasts with the emotional weight of rediscovered family photos from Vietnam—slides that have become central to preserving and sharing his legacy.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a humorous photo Popi's friends, including his best friend Bud Bender, today’s episode explores the personal meaning behind these images, their role in reconnecting with family history, and the broader questions they evoke about purpose and memory in the Vietnam War.","date_published":"2024-11-17T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/884e888d-bc58-4d62-8a4e-79fef5f6876a.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":13692342,"duration_in_seconds":342}]},{"id":"42344e79-3fe1-4ccb-8668-ef88bf358dd1","title":"Episode 019: 1964-11-16 | A Storm of Insomnia","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/019","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a night fraught with tension, as Bill Lowie’s diary entry from November 16 recounts an evening on high alert for a possible Viet Cong attack amidst a typhoon warning. The haunting atmosphere of that night, made worse by memories of the Bien Hoa incident, left Popi and his comrades sleepless and on edge. This entry reveals how these experiences rippled through his life, later influencing family dynamics in small but lasting ways.\n\nAccompanied by a photograph of Hueys conducting a night training mission under flares and tracer rounds, today’s episode contemplates how the echoes of war shape lives far beyond the battlefield.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nDetails of the November 16 entry, capturing a sleepless night under typhoon and attack warnings\nReflections on Popi’s post-war routines, including separate bedrooms due to nightmares\nInsights into how war experiences can shape family dynamics across generations\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A nighttime image of Huey helicopters training under flares and tracer rounds, representing the eerie, tense atmosphere surrounding Popi’s night.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #BienHoa #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a night fraught with tension, as Bill Lowie’s diary entry from November 16 recounts an evening on high alert for a possible Viet Cong attack amidst a typhoon warning. The haunting atmosphere of that night, made worse by memories of the Bien Hoa incident, left Popi and his comrades sleepless and on edge. This entry reveals how these experiences rippled through his life, later influencing family dynamics in small but lasting ways.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photograph of Hueys conducting a night training mission under flares and tracer rounds, today’s episode contemplates how the echoes of war shape lives far beyond the battlefield.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDetails of the November 16 entry, capturing a sleepless night under typhoon and attack warnings\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on Popi’s post-war routines, including separate bedrooms due to nightmares\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInsights into how war experiences can shape family dynamics across generations\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A nighttime image of Huey helicopters training under flares and tracer rounds, representing the eerie, tense atmosphere surrounding Popi’s night.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #BienHoa #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a night fraught with tension, as Bill Lowie’s diary entry from November 16 recounts an evening on high alert for a possible Viet Cong attack amidst a typhoon warning. The haunting atmosphere of that night, made worse by memories of the Bien Hoa incident, left Popi and his comrades sleepless and on edge. This entry reveals how these experiences rippled through his life, later influencing family dynamics in small but lasting ways.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photograph of Hueys conducting a night training mission under flares and tracer rounds, today’s episode contemplates how the echoes of war shape lives far beyond the battlefield.","date_published":"2024-11-16T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/42344e79-3fe1-4ccb-8668-ef88bf358dd1.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":14982791,"duration_in_seconds":374}]},{"id":"8590d713-8854-4417-a4b9-79df0f3b45be","title":"Episode 018: 1964-11-14 | From Resupply to Medevac","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/018","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi’s diary recounts a harrowing Medevac mission on Saturday, November 14, 1964, in which he and his crew were called away from a resupply run to extract wounded ARVN soldiers caught in an ambush. Despite the urgent conditions, they managed to transport 15 soldiers, many with severe and life-threatening injuries. Through his vivid description of their wounds and the unforgiving realities of combat, we’re reminded of the relentless intensity of Medevac operations.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe development of Medevac operations from WWII through the Vietnam War and beyond.\nAn in-depth look at the role of helicopters, from the iconic Huey in Vietnam to the advanced Black Hawk of today.\nThe psychological and physical challenges faced by Medevac crews, especially as they strive to provide critical care within the \"Golden Hour.\"\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A somber image Popi took from his pilot’s seat, showing an ARVN soldier in visible pain, bandaged and awaiting medical attention on the floor of the helicopter. The photograph captures both the urgency of the mission and Popi’s dedication to documenting the experience.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #Medevac #HueyHelicopter #ARVNSoldiers #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi’s diary recounts a harrowing Medevac mission on Saturday, November 14, 1964, in which he and his crew were called away from a resupply run to extract wounded ARVN soldiers caught in an ambush. Despite the urgent conditions, they managed to transport 15 soldiers, many with severe and life-threatening injuries. Through his vivid description of their wounds and the unforgiving realities of combat, we’re reminded of the relentless intensity of Medevac operations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe development of Medevac operations from WWII through the Vietnam War and beyond.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn in-depth look at the role of helicopters, from the iconic Huey in Vietnam to the advanced Black Hawk of today.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe psychological and physical challenges faced by Medevac crews, especially as they strive to provide critical care within the \u0026quot;Golden Hour.\u0026quot;\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A somber image Popi took from his pilot’s seat, showing an ARVN soldier in visible pain, bandaged and awaiting medical attention on the floor of the helicopter. The photograph captures both the urgency of the mission and Popi’s dedication to documenting the experience.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #Medevac #HueyHelicopter #ARVNSoldiers #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi’s diary recounts a harrowing Medevac mission on Saturday, November 14, 1964, in which he and his crew were called away from a resupply run to extract wounded ARVN soldiers caught in an ambush. Despite the urgent conditions, they managed to transport 15 soldiers, many with severe and life-threatening injuries. Through his vivid description of their wounds and the unforgiving realities of combat, we’re reminded of the relentless intensity of Medevac operations.","date_published":"2024-11-14T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/8590d713-8854-4417-a4b9-79df0f3b45be.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":16837484,"duration_in_seconds":420}]},{"id":"cac62c4e-335b-4045-a02d-fe14bb3a072e","title":"Episode 017: 1964-11-09 | The Flare and the Nerves","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/017","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into Bill Lowie’s November 9th diary entry, capturing a raw and tragic side of the Vietnam War. Bill recounts a troop lift under fire, the confusion of battle, and the unimaginable toll that came when a bird strike was mistaken for enemy fire—leading to an attack on civilian structures. The entry reflects the ongoing tension and emotional strain that soldiers faced as innocence, guilt, and fear intertwined.\n\nAccompanied by a blurry photograph of a young Vietnamese girl smiling for the camera, this episode also explores Popi’s own complex feelings about children during and after his time in Vietnam. Despite his years as a grandfather, the memories of conflict and the guilt that haunted him seem never to have left.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nBill Lowie’s November 9-10, 1964 entries, detailing the daily dangers of troop lifts and outpost life\nThe heavy impact of mistaken identity in combat, blurring lines between civilians and combatants\nPopi’s post-war guilt and deepened empathy for children, symbolized by a poignant story about his desire to adopt an orphan\nReflections on Popi's lasting impact on his family, shaped by his experience and his unresolved memories from Vietnam\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A young Vietnamese girl captured in a grainy, endearing snapshot, possibly one of the children Popi felt compelled to help during his deployment.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #ChildhoodInWar #SoldiersStory #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into Bill Lowie’s November 9th diary entry, capturing a raw and tragic side of the Vietnam War. Bill recounts a troop lift under fire, the confusion of battle, and the unimaginable toll that came when a bird strike was mistaken for enemy fire—leading to an attack on civilian structures. The entry reflects the ongoing tension and emotional strain that soldiers faced as innocence, guilt, and fear intertwined.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a blurry photograph of a young Vietnamese girl smiling for the camera, this episode also explores Popi’s own complex feelings about children during and after his time in Vietnam. Despite his years as a grandfather, the memories of conflict and the guilt that haunted him seem never to have left.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill Lowie’s November 9-10, 1964 entries, detailing the daily dangers of troop lifts and outpost life\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe heavy impact of mistaken identity in combat, blurring lines between civilians and combatants\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s post-war guilt and deepened empathy for children, symbolized by a poignant story about his desire to adopt an orphan\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on Popi\u0026#39;s lasting impact on his family, shaped by his experience and his unresolved memories from Vietnam\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A young Vietnamese girl captured in a grainy, endearing snapshot, possibly one of the children Popi felt compelled to help during his deployment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #ChildhoodInWar #SoldiersStory #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into Bill Lowie’s November 9th diary entry, capturing a raw and tragic side of the Vietnam War. Bill recounts a troop lift under fire, the confusion of battle, and the unimaginable toll that came when a bird strike was mistaken for enemy fire—leading to an attack on civilian structures. The entry reflects the ongoing tension and emotional strain that soldiers faced as innocence, guilt, and fear intertwined.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a blurry photograph of a young Vietnamese girl smiling for the camera, this episode also explores Popi’s own complex feelings about children during and after his time in Vietnam. Despite his years as a grandfather, the memories of conflict and the guilt that haunted him seem never to have left.","date_published":"2024-11-09T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/cac62c4e-335b-4045-a02d-fe14bb3a072e.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":18905505,"duration_in_seconds":460}]},{"id":"7f9feaf2-4aa9-4505-86e2-7ab0801ccd2e","title":"Episode 016: 1964-11-08 | The Lost Bird Dog","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/016","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore the events of early November 1964 as Bill Lowie reflects on an L-19 aircraft reported missing over Vietnam. These versatile planes, known as \"Bird Dogs,\" were often used for reconnaissance and forward air control, though they flew low and were vulnerable to enemy fire. Popi’s diary notes the search-and-rescue mission following this loss, along with a routine troop lift he conducted the next day. The entries convey the steady pulse of daily operations, underscoring both the risks and the repetition that came with his role.\n\nAccompanied by a photo of an L-19 soaring past Hueys and Cobras, today’s episode provides a snapshot of a soldier's perspective on an increasingly routine wartime day. We also take a step back to reflect on the impact of the 1964 presidential election, which marked a shift in American politics as Lyndon B. Johnson secured a landslide victory, shaping the national dialogue for years to come.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nOverview of L-19 reconnaissance missions and their role in Vietnam\nBill Lowie’s November 8 entries: the search for a downed Bird Dog and a routine troop lift\nA brief discussion of the 1964 election and its significance in U.S. history\nA reflective personal story inspired by Popi\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: An L-19 aircraft flying past grounded Hueys and Cobras, capturing the unique and essential role of these small planes in the war effort.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #BirdDogAircraft #1964Election #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore the events of early November 1964 as Bill Lowie reflects on an L-19 aircraft reported missing over Vietnam. These versatile planes, known as \u0026quot;Bird Dogs,\u0026quot; were often used for reconnaissance and forward air control, though they flew low and were vulnerable to enemy fire. Popi’s diary notes the search-and-rescue mission following this loss, along with a routine troop lift he conducted the next day. The entries convey the steady pulse of daily operations, underscoring both the risks and the repetition that came with his role.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo of an L-19 soaring past Hueys and Cobras, today’s episode provides a snapshot of a soldier\u0026#39;s perspective on an increasingly routine wartime day. We also take a step back to reflect on the impact of the 1964 presidential election, which marked a shift in American politics as Lyndon B. Johnson secured a landslide victory, shaping the national dialogue for years to come.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOverview of L-19 reconnaissance missions and their role in Vietnam\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill Lowie’s November 8 entries: the search for a downed Bird Dog and a routine troop lift\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA brief discussion of the 1964 election and its significance in U.S. history\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA reflective personal story inspired by Popi\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: An L-19 aircraft flying past grounded Hueys and Cobras, capturing the unique and essential role of these small planes in the war effort.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #BirdDogAircraft #1964Election #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore the events of early November 1964 as Bill Lowie reflects on an L-19 aircraft reported missing over Vietnam. These versatile planes, known as \"Bird Dogs,\" were often used for reconnaissance and forward air control, though they flew low and were vulnerable to enemy fire. Popi’s diary notes the search-and-rescue mission following this loss, along with a routine troop lift he conducted the next day. The entries convey the steady pulse of daily operations, underscoring both the risks and the repetition that came with his role.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo of an L-19 soaring past Hueys and Cobras, today’s episode provides a snapshot of a soldier's perspective on an increasingly routine wartime day. We also take a step back to reflect on the impact of the 1964 presidential election, which marked a shift in American politics as Lyndon B. Johnson secured a landslide victory, shaping the national dialogue for years to come.","date_published":"2024-11-08T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/7f9feaf2-4aa9-4505-86e2-7ab0801ccd2e.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17336946,"duration_in_seconds":433}]},{"id":"392f2cea-349a-416f-94a3-dfb0a9a76b70","title":"Episode 015: 1964-11-04 | Election Year In A Time Of War","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/015","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we join Popi in the days leading up to the 1964 U.S. presidential election. Popi notes an unexpected lull in activity in Vietnam—an odd quiet that contrasts sharply with the political turbulence brewing back home. The episode recounts an intense ARVN-led troop lift operation near Ca Mau, where dense jungles and hidden waterways played host to a fierce encounter with the Viet Cong, resulting in 89 known enemy casualties. As Popi’s entry describes, only one ARVN soldier was killed in the operation, but the toll on both sides reflects the unyielding struggle for control over the country’s southern regions.\n\nAgainst this backdrop, we dive into the political atmosphere surrounding the 1964 election. Incumbent Lyndon B. Johnson and his opponent, Barry Goldwater, presented starkly different visions for America. Johnson’s advocacy for civil rights, including his historic signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, marked a significant shift toward racial equality, but it also came at a cost—alienating parts of his own Democratic South. Goldwater, meanwhile, argued against the Act, emphasizing states' rights, but faced scrutiny for a position that many perceived as racially insensitive. The Cold War also cast a shadow over the election, with Johnson’s policy of containment clashing with Goldwater’s hardline approach, a stance that even raised questions about nuclear conflict. Johnson’s infamous “Daisy” ad reinforced these fears, marking the election as a high-stakes decision in a divided America.\n\nWhile Vietnam had not yet come to dominate the American consciousness, Johnson’s call for a gradual escalation in Vietnam hinted at the storm to come. This quiet moment before the conflict expanded into a deeply polarizing issue reflects the undercurrents of uncertainty surrounding the U.S. presence in Southeast Asia. On the home front, Johnson’s Great Society aimed to lift up communities through sweeping social reforms, while Goldwater’s stance against federal intervention underscored ideological divides about the role of government.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nPopi’s account of a major ARVN-led troop lift operation near Ca Mau\nA reflective look at the 1964 U.S. presidential election, including major issues and ideological divides\nHow the Vietnam War, though not yet dominant in American public life, was gradually escalating\nReflections on the parallels between 1964 and today’s political landscape\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Popi standing beside a signpost displaying various town names and distances, each pointing a different direction—a reference point for soldiers far from home.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #1964Election #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we join Popi in the days leading up to the 1964 U.S. presidential election. Popi notes an unexpected lull in activity in Vietnam—an odd quiet that contrasts sharply with the political turbulence brewing back home. The episode recounts an intense ARVN-led troop lift operation near Ca Mau, where dense jungles and hidden waterways played host to a fierce encounter with the Viet Cong, resulting in 89 known enemy casualties. As Popi’s entry describes, only one ARVN soldier was killed in the operation, but the toll on both sides reflects the unyielding struggle for control over the country’s southern regions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAgainst this backdrop, we dive into the political atmosphere surrounding the 1964 election. Incumbent Lyndon B. Johnson and his opponent, Barry Goldwater, presented starkly different visions for America. Johnson’s advocacy for civil rights, including his historic signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, marked a significant shift toward racial equality, but it also came at a cost—alienating parts of his own Democratic South. Goldwater, meanwhile, argued against the Act, emphasizing states\u0026#39; rights, but faced scrutiny for a position that many perceived as racially insensitive. The Cold War also cast a shadow over the election, with Johnson’s policy of containment clashing with Goldwater’s hardline approach, a stance that even raised questions about nuclear conflict. Johnson’s infamous “Daisy” ad reinforced these fears, marking the election as a high-stakes decision in a divided America.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhile Vietnam had not yet come to dominate the American consciousness, Johnson’s call for a gradual escalation in Vietnam hinted at the storm to come. This quiet moment before the conflict expanded into a deeply polarizing issue reflects the undercurrents of uncertainty surrounding the U.S. presence in Southeast Asia. On the home front, Johnson’s Great Society aimed to lift up communities through sweeping social reforms, while Goldwater’s stance against federal intervention underscored ideological divides about the role of government.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s account of a major ARVN-led troop lift operation near Ca Mau\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA reflective look at the 1964 U.S. presidential election, including major issues and ideological divides\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow the Vietnam War, though not yet dominant in American public life, was gradually escalating\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on the parallels between 1964 and today’s political landscape\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Popi standing beside a signpost displaying various town names and distances, each pointing a different direction—a reference point for soldiers far from home.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #1964Election #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we join Popi in the days leading up to the 1964 U.S. presidential election. Popi notes an unexpected lull in activity in Vietnam—an odd quiet that contrasts sharply with the political turbulence brewing back home. The episode recounts an intense ARVN-led troop lift operation near Ca Mau, where dense jungles and hidden waterways played host to a fierce encounter with the Viet Cong, resulting in 89 known enemy casualties. As Popi’s entry describes, only one ARVN soldier was killed in the operation, but the toll on both sides reflects the unyielding struggle for control over the country’s southern regions.","date_published":"2024-11-04T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/392f2cea-349a-416f-94a3-dfb0a9a76b70.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":23303313,"duration_in_seconds":582}]},{"id":"a6e7eef7-091f-4555-bbd4-1aee0f1a4f80","title":"Episode 014: 1964-11-02 | The Mortar Strike on Bien Hoa","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/014","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into a significant attack on Bien Hoa Air Base as documented by Bill Lowie in his diary entry from November 2, 1964. Located just outside of Saigon, Bien Hoa was one of the largest U.S. air bases in Vietnam, housing a substantial concentration of aircraft and personnel and serving as a critical hub for launching tactical missions. Its scale and proximity to strategic locations made it a prime target for the Viet Cong, who launched a devastating mortar assault on the base. The nighttime attack claimed six American lives, injured nineteen others, and damaged seventeen Air Force planes and three Army helicopters, underscoring the ongoing vulnerabilities of American forces in the region.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nSignificance of Bien Hoa Air Base: Bien Hoa’s pivotal role in supporting major operations, including its history as a logistical and tactical powerhouse for U.S. and ARVN forces, and why its presence posed both a strategic advantage and a risk.\nDetails of the Attack: Popi’s entry captures the realities of the Viet Cong’s hit-and-run mortar tactics. Despite the heavy American defenses, the VC inflicted considerable damage without sustaining any known casualties.\nHistorical Context and Legacy: A look at Bien Hoa’s history and role in significant U.S. air campaigns, such as Operation Rolling Thunder and Operation Arc Light, as well as a reflection on the 1965 Bien Hoa Disaster, which exposed the dangers of munitions storage at heavily armed bases.\nEnvironmental Impact: The episode concludes by addressing Bien Hoa’s legacy, as the U.S. and Vietnamese governments collaborate to remediate the severe Agent Orange contamination in the area—remnants of the war still affecting the environment and local communities today.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Today’s image captures the aftermath of the airfield attack. Bomber planes smolder after the assault, and military personnel can be seen standing beside a firetruck assessing the scene, embodying the tense atmosphere following the assault.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #BienHoaAirBase #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into a significant attack on Bien Hoa Air Base as documented by Bill Lowie in his diary entry from November 2, 1964. Located just outside of Saigon, Bien Hoa was one of the largest U.S. air bases in Vietnam, housing a substantial concentration of aircraft and personnel and serving as a critical hub for launching tactical missions. Its scale and proximity to strategic locations made it a prime target for the Viet Cong, who launched a devastating mortar assault on the base. The nighttime attack claimed six American lives, injured nineteen others, and damaged seventeen Air Force planes and three Army helicopters, underscoring the ongoing vulnerabilities of American forces in the region.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSignificance of Bien Hoa Air Base: Bien Hoa’s pivotal role in supporting major operations, including its history as a logistical and tactical powerhouse for U.S. and ARVN forces, and why its presence posed both a strategic advantage and a risk.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDetails of the Attack: Popi’s entry captures the realities of the Viet Cong’s hit-and-run mortar tactics. Despite the heavy American defenses, the VC inflicted considerable damage without sustaining any known casualties.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHistorical Context and Legacy: A look at Bien Hoa’s history and role in significant U.S. air campaigns, such as Operation Rolling Thunder and Operation Arc Light, as well as a reflection on the 1965 Bien Hoa Disaster, which exposed the dangers of munitions storage at heavily armed bases.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnvironmental Impact: The episode concludes by addressing Bien Hoa’s legacy, as the U.S. and Vietnamese governments collaborate to remediate the severe Agent Orange contamination in the area—remnants of the war still affecting the environment and local communities today.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Today’s image captures the aftermath of the airfield attack. Bomber planes smolder after the assault, and military personnel can be seen standing beside a firetruck assessing the scene, embodying the tense atmosphere following the assault.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #BienHoaAirBase #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into a significant attack on Bien Hoa Air Base as documented by Bill Lowie in his diary entry from November 2, 1964. Located just outside of Saigon, Bien Hoa was one of the largest U.S. air bases in Vietnam, housing a substantial concentration of aircraft and personnel and serving as a critical hub for launching tactical missions. Its scale and proximity to strategic locations made it a prime target for the Viet Cong, who launched a devastating mortar assault on the base. The nighttime attack claimed six American lives, injured nineteen others, and damaged seventeen Air Force planes and three Army helicopters, underscoring the ongoing vulnerabilities of American forces in the region.","date_published":"2024-11-02T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/a6e7eef7-091f-4555-bbd4-1aee0f1a4f80.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17324407,"duration_in_seconds":433}]},{"id":"c00b6a3b-f60b-4966-9748-7cf1f0011999","title":"All Episodes, October 1964","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/october","content_text":"In this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we’re bringing together all of Bill Lowie’s October 1964 diary entries, creating a powerful, unified narrative of life at the heart of the Vietnam War. From the intense helicopter missions and dangerous outpost attacks to moments of reflection on the emotional toll of combat, this supercut highlights the highs and lows of an unforgettable month. Through Bill’s words and photographs, we gain a unique perspective on the war’s reality, revealing the courage, struggles, and lasting bonds that shaped his time overseas.\n\nTune in to experience October through Bill's eyes—one day, one mission, and one story at a time.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #1964Vietnam #BillLowieDiaries #InheritTheStories #HueyHelicopter #UH1B #MilitaryHistory #CombatStories #VietnamDiary #Medevac #USArmy #ARVN #WarDiaries #OutpostStories #HelicopterRescue #DeltaMission #ApocalypseNowInspiration #NewJournalism #MichaelHerr #Dispatches #WarCorrespondent #TroopLift #JungleWarfare #VietCong #CombatMission #MemoriesOfWar #HistoricalPodcast #HistoryUnfolded #OnThisDay1964 #OctoberRecap #FamilyHistory #RememberingVietnam #veteransday","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we’re bringing together all of Bill Lowie’s October 1964 diary entries, creating a powerful, unified narrative of life at the heart of the Vietnam War. From the intense helicopter missions and dangerous outpost attacks to moments of reflection on the emotional toll of combat, this supercut highlights the highs and lows of an unforgettable month. Through Bill’s words and photographs, we gain a unique perspective on the war’s reality, revealing the courage, struggles, and lasting bonds that shaped his time overseas.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTune in to experience October through Bill\u0026#39;s eyes—one day, one mission, and one story at a time.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #1964Vietnam #BillLowieDiaries #InheritTheStories #HueyHelicopter #UH1B #MilitaryHistory #CombatStories #VietnamDiary #Medevac #USArmy #ARVN #WarDiaries #OutpostStories #HelicopterRescue #DeltaMission #ApocalypseNowInspiration #NewJournalism #MichaelHerr #Dispatches #WarCorrespondent #TroopLift #JungleWarfare #VietCong #CombatMission #MemoriesOfWar #HistoricalPodcast #HistoryUnfolded #OnThisDay1964 #OctoberRecap #FamilyHistory #RememberingVietnam #veteransday\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this special episode of Dearest Suzie, we’re bringing together all of Bill Lowie’s October 1964 diary entries, creating a powerful, unified narrative of life at the heart of the Vietnam War. From the intense helicopter missions and dangerous outpost attacks to moments of reflection on the emotional toll of combat, this supercut highlights the highs and lows of an unforgettable month. Through Bill’s words and photographs, we gain a unique perspective on the war’s reality, revealing the courage, struggles, and lasting bonds that shaped his time overseas.\r\n\r\nTune in to experience October through Bill's eyes—one day, one mission, and one story at a time.","date_published":"2024-11-01T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/c00b6a3b-f60b-4966-9748-7cf1f0011999.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":67082998,"duration_in_seconds":5327}]},{"id":"937cc726-5925-4b10-8a1d-97cbde1be711","title":"Episode 013: 1964-10-28 | Outpost in the Mist","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/013","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie’s diary describes the attack on the remote outpost of Io Chou, where both U.S. and ARVN forces suffered heavy losses with minimal known casualties on the Viet Cong side. Today’s entry offers a haunting glimpse into the isolated and vulnerable nature of these outposts, where soldiers faced surprise ambushes with limited reinforcement options.\n\nInspired by scenes from \"Apocalypse Now\" and \"Dispatches\" by Michael Herr, we explore the psychological impact of serving in these remote locations and how the Viet Cong’s mastery of the terrain left troops in constant suspense, never knowing if an attack was imminent.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nBackground on remote U.S. and ARVN outposts and their vulnerabilities\nViet Cong tactics and their swift, unpredictable offensives in the jungle\nReflections on \"Apocalypse Now\" and \"Dispatches,\" drawing parallels between Popi’s experience and depictions of the war in popular media\nUnique insights into Popi’s photographs of ARVN medical rescues and the complex relationships and choices behind capturing these moments\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: ARVN forces transporting a wounded soldier in a makeshift stretcher, heading toward Popi’s helicopter for medevac.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #OutpostInTheMist #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie’s diary describes the attack on the remote outpost of Io Chou, where both U.S. and ARVN forces suffered heavy losses with minimal known casualties on the Viet Cong side. Today’s entry offers a haunting glimpse into the isolated and vulnerable nature of these outposts, where soldiers faced surprise ambushes with limited reinforcement options.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInspired by scenes from \u0026quot;Apocalypse Now\u0026quot; and \u0026quot;Dispatches\u0026quot; by Michael Herr, we explore the psychological impact of serving in these remote locations and how the Viet Cong’s mastery of the terrain left troops in constant suspense, never knowing if an attack was imminent.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBackground on remote U.S. and ARVN outposts and their vulnerabilities\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eViet Cong tactics and their swift, unpredictable offensives in the jungle\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on \u0026quot;Apocalypse Now\u0026quot; and \u0026quot;Dispatches,\u0026quot; drawing parallels between Popi’s experience and depictions of the war in popular media\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnique insights into Popi’s photographs of ARVN medical rescues and the complex relationships and choices behind capturing these moments\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: ARVN forces transporting a wounded soldier in a makeshift stretcher, heading toward Popi’s helicopter for medevac.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #OutpostInTheMist #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie’s diary describes the attack on the remote outpost of Io Chou, where both U.S. and ARVN forces suffered heavy losses with minimal known casualties on the Viet Cong side. Today’s entry offers a haunting glimpse into the isolated and vulnerable nature of these outposts, where soldiers faced surprise ambushes with limited reinforcement options.\r\n\r\nInspired by scenes from \"Apocalypse Now\" and \"Dispatches\" by Michael Herr, we explore the psychological impact of serving in these remote locations and how the Viet Cong’s mastery of the terrain left troops in constant suspense, never knowing if an attack was imminent.","date_published":"2024-10-28T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/937cc726-5925-4b10-8a1d-97cbde1be711.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":4507726,"duration_in_seconds":357}]},{"id":"3816d8e1-d68e-4f69-8766-75252735c2c6","title":"Episode 012: 1964-10-27 | Downed Hueys in the Delta","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/012","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into Bill Lowie’s October 27 diary entry, recounting a high-stakes troop lift deep in the Mekong Delta. During the operation, two gunships were brought down by enemy fire, triggering a complex and dangerous recovery mission. This episode explores the precarious work of H-37 recovery helicopters, facing battlefield ambush risks and the weight of protecting valuable assets. We also discuss the technical struggles that Hueys faced in Vietnam’s harsh environment, including rotor degradation and engine malfunctions, and the rapid adaptations that improved their resilience.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nThe logistics and dangers of helicopter recovery in active combat zones\nTechnical challenges faced by early Huey models and subsequent improvements\nThe vital role of recovery crews and support operations in Vietnam\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A downed Huey, lying in shallow water with a hazy rainbow glare—capturing a moment that reflects both the Huey’s battlefield presence and its fragility.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com if you have a story to share or want to reach out—I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #AircraftRecovery #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into Bill Lowie’s October 27 diary entry, recounting a high-stakes troop lift deep in the Mekong Delta. During the operation, two gunships were brought down by enemy fire, triggering a complex and dangerous recovery mission. This episode explores the precarious work of H-37 recovery helicopters, facing battlefield ambush risks and the weight of protecting valuable assets. We also discuss the technical struggles that Hueys faced in Vietnam’s harsh environment, including rotor degradation and engine malfunctions, and the rapid adaptations that improved their resilience.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe logistics and dangers of helicopter recovery in active combat zones\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTechnical challenges faced by early Huey models and subsequent improvements\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe vital role of recovery crews and support operations in Vietnam\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A downed Huey, lying in shallow water with a hazy rainbow glare—capturing a moment that reflects both the Huey’s battlefield presence and its fragility.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e if you have a story to share or want to reach out—I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #AircraftRecovery #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into Bill Lowie’s October 27 diary entry, recounting a high-stakes troop lift deep in the Mekong Delta. During the operation, two gunships were brought down by enemy fire, triggering a complex and dangerous recovery mission. This episode explores the precarious work of H-37 recovery helicopters, facing battlefield ambush risks and the weight of protecting valuable assets. We also discuss the technical struggles that Hueys faced in Vietnam’s harsh environment, including rotor degradation and engine malfunctions, and the rapid adaptations that improved their resilience.","date_published":"2024-10-27T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/3816d8e1-d68e-4f69-8766-75252735c2c6.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":5488752,"duration_in_seconds":417}]},{"id":"a9932cda-089e-4800-88c5-4f6c1d3f01a9","title":"Episode 011: 1964-10-26 | Quiet but Not Safe","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/011","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Bill Lowie's diary entry from October 26, 1964, where an eerily quiet day in Vietnam reveals the ever-present danger beneath the surface. While there were no direct confrontations with the Viet Cong, their silence could mean something far more sinister. We dive into the tactics of guerrilla warfare, the meaning behind \"Charlie in the trees,\" and the psychological toll of navigating a landscape riddled with booby traps like Punji sticks, Bouncing Betties, and tripwire explosives. Even on calm days, the jungle was never safe. These traps, often invisible to the naked eye, turned even routine missions into dangerous endeavors.\n\nThe Bouncing Betty mine, originally developed by Germany during World War I and later adopted by the Viet Cong, was designed to inflict maximum damage. Along with Punji sticks and tripwires, these traps contributed to the psychological toll of soldiers who felt the jungle itself was their enemy. This type of warfare has persisted into modern American engagements, seen in the widespread use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during the U.S.’s war on terror.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nBill Lowie's assignment flying ARVN commanders\nThe Viet Cong’s guerrilla warfare tactics\nThe psychological strain of navigating booby-trapped jungles\nInsights into Bouncing Betties, Punji sticks, and other hidden dangers\nThe legacy of guerrilla warfare and its impact on U.S. soldiers\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Soldiers walk along a watery bank, their path potentially filled with hidden traps, reflecting the constant anxiety of navigating Vietnam's dangerous terrain.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #GuerillaWarfare #CharlieInTheTrees #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Bill Lowie\u0026#39;s diary entry from October 26, 1964, where an eerily quiet day in Vietnam reveals the ever-present danger beneath the surface. While there were no direct confrontations with the Viet Cong, their silence could mean something far more sinister. We dive into the tactics of guerrilla warfare, the meaning behind \u0026quot;Charlie in the trees,\u0026quot; and the psychological toll of navigating a landscape riddled with booby traps like Punji sticks, Bouncing Betties, and tripwire explosives. Even on calm days, the jungle was never safe. These traps, often invisible to the naked eye, turned even routine missions into dangerous endeavors.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bouncing Betty mine, originally developed by Germany during World War I and later adopted by the Viet Cong, was designed to inflict maximum damage. Along with Punji sticks and tripwires, these traps contributed to the psychological toll of soldiers who felt the jungle itself was their enemy. This type of warfare has persisted into modern American engagements, seen in the widespread use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during the U.S.’s war on terror.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBill Lowie\u0026#39;s assignment flying ARVN commanders\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Viet Cong’s guerrilla warfare tactics\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe psychological strain of navigating booby-trapped jungles\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInsights into Bouncing Betties, Punji sticks, and other hidden dangers\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe legacy of guerrilla warfare and its impact on U.S. soldiers\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Soldiers walk along a watery bank, their path potentially filled with hidden traps, reflecting the constant anxiety of navigating Vietnam\u0026#39;s dangerous terrain.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #GuerillaWarfare #CharlieInTheTrees #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore Bill Lowie's diary entry from October 26, 1964, where an eerily quiet day in Vietnam reveals the ever-present danger beneath the surface. While there were no direct confrontations with the Viet Cong, their silence could mean something far more sinister. We dive into the tactics of guerrilla warfare, the meaning behind \"Charlie in the trees,\" and the psychological toll of navigating a landscape riddled with booby traps like Punji sticks, Bouncing Betties, and tripwire explosives. Even on calm days, the jungle was never safe. These traps, often invisible to the naked eye, turned even routine missions into dangerous endeavors.\r\n\r\nThe Bouncing Betty mine, originally developed by Germany during World War I and later adopted by the Viet Cong, was designed to inflict maximum damage. Along with Punji sticks and tripwires, these traps contributed to the psychological toll of soldiers who felt the jungle itself was their enemy. This type of warfare has persisted into modern American engagements, seen in the widespread use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during the U.S.’s war on terror.","date_published":"2024-10-26T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/a9932cda-089e-4800-88c5-4f6c1d3f01a9.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":4675517,"duration_in_seconds":360}]},{"id":"049dd383-35c6-4173-b56f-5ad26c99da6d","title":"Episode 010: 1964-10-25 | A Life In Motion","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/010","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we read Bill Lowie’s diary entry from October 25, 1964, where he recounts another mission chasing Viet Cong forces with ARVN troops. Beyond the battlefield, this episode takes a deeper dive into Popi's life, tracing his journey from his birth in Georgia to his experiences across the globe. From peeling potatoes for Hungarian refugees following the 1956 Hungarian Revolution to “capturing” Elvis Presley in Germany, Popi's story is one of service, adventure, and devotion to family. Alongside stories of war, we explore Popi's post-military life, flying for Starkist Tuna, his near-death experience at sea, and his fight with alcoholism. His life was complex, filled with trials and quirks, but ultimately a reflection of a man who never stopped moving.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nA diary entry detailing an October 25, 1964 mission in Vietnam\nPopi's early life, family background, and childhood\nHis unexpected role during the 1956 Hungarian Revolution\nMeeting Mema and their early life together\nCareer highlights, including his military service, flying for Starkist Tuna, and brushes with danger\nReflections on his later years and legacy\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Popi at 27, standing on the airfield in Vinh Long.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we read Bill Lowie’s diary entry from October 25, 1964, where he recounts another mission chasing Viet Cong forces with ARVN troops. Beyond the battlefield, this episode takes a deeper dive into Popi\u0026#39;s life, tracing his journey from his birth in Georgia to his experiences across the globe. From peeling potatoes for Hungarian refugees following the 1956 Hungarian Revolution to “capturing” Elvis Presley in Germany, Popi\u0026#39;s story is one of service, adventure, and devotion to family. Alongside stories of war, we explore Popi\u0026#39;s post-military life, flying for Starkist Tuna, his near-death experience at sea, and his fight with alcoholism. His life was complex, filled with trials and quirks, but ultimately a reflection of a man who never stopped moving.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA diary entry detailing an October 25, 1964 mission in Vietnam\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi\u0026#39;s early life, family background, and childhood\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHis unexpected role during the 1956 Hungarian Revolution\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeeting Mema and their early life together\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCareer highlights, including his military service, flying for Starkist Tuna, and brushes with danger\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReflections on his later years and legacy\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Popi at 27, standing on the airfield in Vinh Long.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #FamilyHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we read Bill Lowie’s diary entry from October 25, 1964, where he recounts another mission chasing Viet Cong forces with ARVN troops. Beyond the battlefield, this episode takes a deeper dive into Popi's life, tracing his journey from his birth in Georgia to his experiences across the globe. From peeling potatoes for Hungarian refugees following the 1956 Hungarian Revolution to “capturing” Elvis Presley in Germany, Popi's story is one of service, adventure, and devotion to family. Alongside stories of war, we explore Popi's post-military life, flying for Starkist Tuna, his near-death experience at sea, and his fight with alcoholism. His life was complex, filled with trials and quirks, but ultimately a reflection of a man who never stopped moving.","date_published":"2024-10-25T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/049dd383-35c6-4173-b56f-5ad26c99da6d.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":6962998,"duration_in_seconds":543}]},{"id":"171d15aa-cffa-4716-9b68-8fa0739bd141","title":"Episode 009: 1964-10-24 | Borderline Chaos","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/009","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a tense encounter near the Cambodian border on October 24, 1964. Bill Lowie’s diary recounts the assault on the Dan Phouc outpost, where Viet Cong forces approached through flooded rice fields and captured an American captain. Popi’s vivid entry captures the strategic vulnerability of these border areas and the dangers American forces faced, even from across the Cambodian line.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nStrategic challenges at the Cambodian border.\nViet Cong's use of local geography for guerrilla tactics.\nThe vital role and vulnerability of U.S. gunships.\nThe emotional toll of the war, highlighted by the captured and later deceased American captain.\nDiplomatic complexities of U.S.-Cambodian relations during the Vietnam War.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A sampan with two Vietnamese passengers, sparking questions about how often Popi encountered the Viet Cong in disguise.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nphotos #photography #podcastclips #vietnam #vietnamwar #memoir #war #podcast #education #edutok #military #militaryhistory #ushistory #facts #onthisday #otd #fyp #saigon #aviation #aviationlovers #aviationhistory #facts #factsyoudidntknow #history #historytok #historytime #family #familyhistory #guerrillawarfare #cambodianborder #vietcong #helicopters #gunships #coldwar #soldiersstory #militarylife #popi #inheritthestories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a tense encounter near the Cambodian border on October 24, 1964. Bill Lowie’s diary recounts the assault on the Dan Phouc outpost, where Viet Cong forces approached through flooded rice fields and captured an American captain. Popi’s vivid entry captures the strategic vulnerability of these border areas and the dangers American forces faced, even from across the Cambodian line.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrategic challenges at the Cambodian border.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eViet Cong\u0026#39;s use of local geography for guerrilla tactics.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe vital role and vulnerability of U.S. gunships.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe emotional toll of the war, highlighted by the captured and later deceased American captain.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiplomatic complexities of U.S.-Cambodian relations during the Vietnam War.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A sampan with two Vietnamese passengers, sparking questions about how often Popi encountered the Viet Cong in disguise.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003ephotos #photography #podcastclips #vietnam #vietnamwar #memoir #war #podcast #education #edutok #military #militaryhistory #ushistory #facts #onthisday #otd #fyp #saigon #aviation #aviationlovers #aviationhistory #facts #factsyoudidntknow #history #historytok #historytime #family #familyhistory #guerrillawarfare #cambodianborder #vietcong #helicopters #gunships #coldwar #soldiersstory #militarylife #popi #inheritthestories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we explore a tense encounter near the Cambodian border on October 24, 1964. Bill Lowie’s diary recounts the assault on the Dan Phouc outpost, where Viet Cong forces approached through flooded rice fields and captured an American captain. Popi’s vivid entry captures the strategic vulnerability of these border areas and the dangers American forces faced, even from across the Cambodian line.","date_published":"2024-10-24T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/171d15aa-cffa-4716-9b68-8fa0739bd141.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":4332837,"duration_in_seconds":328}]},{"id":"cdfc59a4-63d4-4ca4-840c-ce8238a72e9a","title":"Episode 008: 1964-10-23 | The V.C. In A Vise","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/008","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we dive into an intense entry from my grandfather’s diary, where he details his first assault mission in Vietnam. In this mission, Popi describes transporting ARVN troops into a Viet Cong stronghold, facing enemy fire, and narrowly escaping danger thanks to gunship support.\n\nAccompanied by a personal story of my own encounter with a Vietnam War exhibit at the National Infantry Museum, this episode highlights the tension, fear, and chaotic reality that soldiers like my grandfather experienced.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n\nPopi’s first assault mission and a well-executed ambush gone wrong.\nGunships and the dangers of troop transport missions.\nA reflection on immersive war exhibits and their impact on visitors.\n\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Troops jumping from a helicopter into a rice paddy, reminiscent of Popi’s description of his mission.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nvietnamwar #HelicopterMission #CombatAssault #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we dive into an intense entry from my grandfather’s diary, where he details his first assault mission in Vietnam. In this mission, Popi describes transporting ARVN troops into a Viet Cong stronghold, facing enemy fire, and narrowly escaping danger thanks to gunship support.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a personal story of my own encounter with a Vietnam War exhibit at the National Infantry Museum, this episode highlights the tension, fear, and chaotic reality that soldiers like my grandfather experienced.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePopi’s first assault mission and a well-executed ambush gone wrong.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGunships and the dangers of troop transport missions.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA reflection on immersive war exhibits and their impact on visitors.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Troops jumping from a helicopter into a rice paddy, reminiscent of Popi’s description of his mission.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003evietnamwar #HelicopterMission #CombatAssault #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we dive into an intense entry from my grandfather’s diary, where he details his first assault mission in Vietnam. In this mission, Popi describes transporting ARVN troops into a Viet Cong stronghold, facing enemy fire, and narrowly escaping danger thanks to gunship support.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a personal story of my own encounter with a Vietnam War exhibit at the National Infantry Museum, this episode highlights the tension, fear, and chaotic reality that soldiers like my grandfather experienced.","date_published":"2024-10-23T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/cdfc59a4-63d4-4ca4-840c-ce8238a72e9a.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":5391415,"duration_in_seconds":426}]},{"id":"7451bf30-7157-4b09-a729-019dbd94e202","title":"Episode 007: General Comments After One Month | Guns, Grunts, and Double Agents","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/007","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we dive into Bill Lowie’s reflections after his first month in Vietnam. Popi dispels the myth that American advisors were equipped with outdated, World War II-era surplus and shares his experiences with the latest military equipment and aviation. We also explore the frustrations felt by U.S. advisors over the lack of cooperation with ARVN leaders and the inherent dangers of troop lift missions. Lastly, Popi introduces us to Chou, an infamous figure who blurred the lines between friend and foe in the chaos of war.\n\nAccompanied by a photo depicting women at the edge of the tarmac, possibly linked to Chou’s operations, today’s episode offers a glimpse into the ambiguous and complex relationships that emerged in Vietnam’s war zones.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n-Modern military equipment in early U.S. involvement\n-Tensions between ARVN leaders and U.S. advisors\n-Dangers of troop lift missions\n-The story of Chou: brothel owner, communist, and opportunist\n-Reflections on espionage and local involvement in military operations\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A group of women stand at the edge of a tarmac, possibly linked to Chou’s operations. A man, potentially Chou himself, stands to the right.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories #WarCorrespondence #PersonalVietnamWarArchive #VietnamWarOralHistory #VietnamWarDiary","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, we dive into Bill Lowie’s reflections after his first month in Vietnam. Popi dispels the myth that American advisors were equipped with outdated, World War II-era surplus and shares his experiences with the latest military equipment and aviation. We also explore the frustrations felt by U.S. advisors over the lack of cooperation with ARVN leaders and the inherent dangers of troop lift missions. Lastly, Popi introduces us to Chou, an infamous figure who blurred the lines between friend and foe in the chaos of war.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo depicting women at the edge of the tarmac, possibly linked to Chou’s operations, today’s episode offers a glimpse into the ambiguous and complex relationships that emerged in Vietnam’s war zones.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003cbr\u003e\n-Modern military equipment in early U.S. involvement\u003cbr\u003e\n-Tensions between ARVN leaders and U.S. advisors\u003cbr\u003e\n-Dangers of troop lift missions\u003cbr\u003e\n-The story of Chou: brothel owner, communist, and opportunist\u003cbr\u003e\n-Reflections on espionage and local involvement in military operations\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A group of women stand at the edge of a tarmac, possibly linked to Chou’s operations. A man, potentially Chou himself, stands to the right.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTikTok: \u003ca href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dearestsuziepodcast\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories #WarCorrespondence #PersonalVietnamWarArchive #VietnamWarOralHistory #VietnamWarDiary\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we dive into Bill Lowie’s reflections after his first month in Vietnam. Popi dispels the myth that American advisors were equipped with outdated, World War II-era surplus and shares his experiences with the latest military equipment and aviation. We also explore the frustrations felt by U.S. advisors over the lack of cooperation with ARVN leaders and the inherent dangers of troop lift missions. Lastly, Popi introduces us to Chou, an infamous figure who blurred the lines between friend and foe in the chaos of war.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photo depicting women at the edge of the tarmac, possibly linked to Chou’s operations, today’s episode offers a glimpse into the ambiguous and complex relationships that emerged in Vietnam’s war zones.","date_published":"2024-10-21T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/7451bf30-7157-4b09-a729-019dbd94e202.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":6253175,"duration_in_seconds":468}]},{"id":"19c185e2-01b9-47c2-be3a-ea9e957cb406","title":"Episode 006: 1964-10-20 | Psyops and Target Practice","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/006","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie recounts a unique mission flying a helicopter outfitted for psychological operations, broadcasting messages to the Viet Cong as part of a psychological warfare effort. Despite initial skepticism from his fellow soldiers, Popi reflects on the potential effectiveness of these missions in reaching illiterate populations with crucial information.\n\nAccompanied by a powerful image of flyers being prepared for airdrop, today’s episode delves into the use of psychological tactics during the Vietnam War and Popi’s first encounter with a young Viet Cong prisoner, a stark reminder of the complexities and personal conflicts soldiers faced.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n-Helicopter psychological warfare missions\n-Reflections on the effectiveness of speaker ships\n-Popi’s first encounter with a Viet Cong prisoner, only 15 years old\n-The emotional toll of combat and memories that linger long after the war\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A soldier in a helicopter cutting open bundles of psyops flyers, preparing to drop them over enemy territories.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #PsychologicalWarfare #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie recounts a unique mission flying a helicopter outfitted for psychological operations, broadcasting messages to the Viet Cong as part of a psychological warfare effort. Despite initial skepticism from his fellow soldiers, Popi reflects on the potential effectiveness of these missions in reaching illiterate populations with crucial information.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a powerful image of flyers being prepared for airdrop, today’s episode delves into the use of psychological tactics during the Vietnam War and Popi’s first encounter with a young Viet Cong prisoner, a stark reminder of the complexities and personal conflicts soldiers faced.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003cbr\u003e\n-Helicopter psychological warfare missions\u003cbr\u003e\n-Reflections on the effectiveness of speaker ships\u003cbr\u003e\n-Popi’s first encounter with a Viet Cong prisoner, only 15 years old\u003cbr\u003e\n-The emotional toll of combat and memories that linger long after the war\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A soldier in a helicopter cutting open bundles of psyops flyers, preparing to drop them over enemy territories.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #PsychologicalWarfare #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie recounts a unique mission flying a helicopter outfitted for psychological operations, broadcasting messages to the Viet Cong as part of a psychological warfare effort. Despite initial skepticism from his fellow soldiers, Popi reflects on the potential effectiveness of these missions in reaching illiterate populations with crucial information.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a powerful image of flyers being prepared for airdrop, today’s episode delves into the use of psychological tactics during the Vietnam War and Popi’s first encounter with a young Viet Cong prisoner, a stark reminder of the complexities and personal conflicts soldiers faced.","date_published":"2024-10-20T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/19c185e2-01b9-47c2-be3a-ea9e957cb406.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":5001339,"duration_in_seconds":391}]},{"id":"21a09d56-2f2d-43a0-a1ca-4fb5b50b2492","title":"Episode 005: 1964-10-12 | Jet Fuel and the Delta","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/005","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie recounts his first flight over the lower Mekong Delta, where he experiences the unsettling reality of conducting military operations in a region largely controlled by the Viet Cong. During a three-hour flight, Popi's helicopter stops at a dirt strip to refuel, only to be tasked with transporting a new advisor to a remote outpost surrounded by dense trees. With the constant fear of enemy attack, he reflects on the paradox of relying on fuel transported by civilians who pay \"road taxes\" to the Viet Cong. This uneasy cooperation, in which the Viet Cong could halt military movements by stopping fuel deliveries, exemplifies the complexities and contradictions U.S. forces faced in Vietnam.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n• First flight over the Mekong Delta.\n• Transporting an advisor to a small outpost.\n• Complex relationship between the Viet Cong and Vietnamese civilians.\n• The delicate logistics of fuel transportation in VC-controlled areas.\n\n📷Featured Photo: A formation of Huey helicopters flying over the dense terrain of the Mekong Delta, showing the roads likely regulated by the Viet Cong.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #AviationHistory #MentalHealthInWar #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie recounts his first flight over the lower Mekong Delta, where he experiences the unsettling reality of conducting military operations in a region largely controlled by the Viet Cong. During a three-hour flight, Popi\u0026#39;s helicopter stops at a dirt strip to refuel, only to be tasked with transporting a new advisor to a remote outpost surrounded by dense trees. With the constant fear of enemy attack, he reflects on the paradox of relying on fuel transported by civilians who pay \u0026quot;road taxes\u0026quot; to the Viet Cong. This uneasy cooperation, in which the Viet Cong could halt military movements by stopping fuel deliveries, exemplifies the complexities and contradictions U.S. forces faced in Vietnam.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003cbr\u003e\n• First flight over the Mekong Delta.\u003cbr\u003e\n• Transporting an advisor to a small outpost.\u003cbr\u003e\n• Complex relationship between the Viet Cong and Vietnamese civilians.\u003cbr\u003e\n• The delicate logistics of fuel transportation in VC-controlled areas.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷Featured Photo: A formation of Huey helicopters flying over the dense terrain of the Mekong Delta, showing the roads likely regulated by the Viet Cong.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #AviationHistory #MentalHealthInWar #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Bill Lowie recounts his first flight over the lower Mekong Delta, where he experiences the unsettling reality of conducting military operations in a region largely controlled by the Viet Cong. During a three-hour flight, Popi's helicopter stops at a dirt strip to refuel, only to be tasked with transporting a new advisor to a remote outpost surrounded by dense trees. With the constant fear of enemy attack, he reflects on the paradox of relying on fuel transported by civilians who pay \"road taxes\" to the Viet Cong. This uneasy cooperation, in which the Viet Cong could halt military movements by stopping fuel deliveries, exemplifies the complexities and contradictions U.S. forces faced in Vietnam.","date_published":"2024-10-12T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/21a09d56-2f2d-43a0-a1ca-4fb5b50b2492.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":6057761,"duration_in_seconds":455}]},{"id":"99303632-93d8-4948-8b50-f00a372048dc","title":"Episode 004: 1964-10-10 | Screwdrivers to Saigon","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/004","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi recounts a challenging day filled with the recovery of a downed Huey helicopter, the long wait under the scorching sun during a formal medal ceremony, and a disturbing injury that reflects the psychological toll of war. I also provide some background on another helicopter.\n\nAccompanied by a photograph of soldiers standing at attention among U.S. state flags, today’s episode offers a glimpse into the daily challenges of military life during the Vietnam War.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n-The rescue of a UH-1B troop ship and the role of the H-37 Mojave helicopter.\n-A formal ceremony where Silver and Bronze Stars were awarded to members of the 114th.\n-A supply sergeant’s self-inflicted injury, shedding light on the mental health strain faced by soldiers.\n\n📷 Featured Photo: Soldiers standing at attention during a ceremony, possibly hosting a VIP, among the many state flags of the U.S.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryCeremony #MentalHealthInWar #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi recounts a challenging day filled with the recovery of a downed Huey helicopter, the long wait under the scorching sun during a formal medal ceremony, and a disturbing injury that reflects the psychological toll of war. I also provide some background on another helicopter.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photograph of soldiers standing at attention among U.S. state flags, today’s episode offers a glimpse into the daily challenges of military life during the Vietnam War.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003cbr\u003e\n-The rescue of a UH-1B troop ship and the role of the H-37 Mojave helicopter.\u003cbr\u003e\n-A formal ceremony where Silver and Bronze Stars were awarded to members of the 114th.\u003cbr\u003e\n-A supply sergeant’s self-inflicted injury, shedding light on the mental health strain faced by soldiers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: Soldiers standing at attention during a ceremony, possibly hosting a VIP, among the many state flags of the U.S.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryCeremony #MentalHealthInWar #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, Popi recounts a challenging day filled with the recovery of a downed Huey helicopter, the long wait under the scorching sun during a formal medal ceremony, and a disturbing injury that reflects the psychological toll of war. I also provide some background on another helicopter.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a photograph of soldiers standing at attention among U.S. state flags, today’s episode offers a glimpse into the daily challenges of military life during the Vietnam War.","date_published":"2024-10-10T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/99303632-93d8-4948-8b50-f00a372048dc.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":5592825,"duration_in_seconds":421}]},{"id":"3cfbb6d4-4c0b-4b58-8474-a7b768834def","title":"Episode 003: 1964-10-08 | The First Wake-Up Call","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/003","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, I share an entry dated October 8, 1964. During a harrowing night, Bill and his comrades were fired upon by the Viet Cong (V.C.), awakening nearly everyone on the compound. While no hits were reported, this close encounter underscores the ever-present danger faced by U.S. forces in Vietnam.\n\nWe delve into the history and tactics of the Viet Cong, a communist-led guerrilla force that emerged in the late 1950s in response to discontent with the U.S.-backed South Vietnamese government. Utilizing guerrilla warfare, ambushes, and psychological tactics, the V.C. relied on their intimate knowledge of the terrain and the element of surprise to challenge American troops.\n\nAs we explore this entry, I reflect on the realities of combat, where danger lurked at every corner, often intensified by the cover of darkness. \n\nWhat’s Covered:\n-Bill Lowie's entry detailing a close call with the Viet Cong\n-The history and significance of the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War\n-The tactics employed by the V.C. and their impact on U.S. forces\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A night scene depicting a mess hall or officer club at the airbase, illustrating the soldiers’ downtime amidst the chaos of war.\n\n🔔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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #VietCong #GuerrillaWarfare #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, I share an entry dated October 8, 1964. During a harrowing night, Bill and his comrades were fired upon by the Viet Cong (V.C.), awakening nearly everyone on the compound. While no hits were reported, this close encounter underscores the ever-present danger faced by U.S. forces in Vietnam.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWe delve into the history and tactics of the Viet Cong, a communist-led guerrilla force that emerged in the late 1950s in response to discontent with the U.S.-backed South Vietnamese government. Utilizing guerrilla warfare, ambushes, and psychological tactics, the V.C. relied on their intimate knowledge of the terrain and the element of surprise to challenge American troops.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs we explore this entry, I reflect on the realities of combat, where danger lurked at every corner, often intensified by the cover of darkness. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003cbr\u003e\n-Bill Lowie\u0026#39;s entry detailing a close call with the Viet Cong\u003cbr\u003e\n-The history and significance of the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War\u003cbr\u003e\n-The tactics employed by the V.C. and their impact on U.S. forces\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A night scene depicting a mess hall or officer club at the airbase, illustrating the soldiers’ downtime amidst the chaos of war.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #VietCong #GuerrillaWarfare #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, I share an entry dated October 8, 1964. During a harrowing night, Bill and his comrades were fired upon by the Viet Cong (V.C.), awakening nearly everyone on the compound. While no hits were reported, this close encounter underscores the ever-present danger faced by U.S. forces in Vietnam.\r\n\r\nWe delve into the history and tactics of the Viet Cong, a communist-led guerrilla force that emerged in the late 1950s in response to discontent with the U.S.-backed South Vietnamese government. Utilizing guerrilla warfare, ambushes, and psychological tactics, the V.C. relied on their intimate knowledge of the terrain and the element of surprise to challenge American troops.\r\n\r\nAs we explore this entry, I reflect on the realities of combat, where danger lurked at every corner, often intensified by the cover of darkness. ","date_published":"2024-10-08T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/3cfbb6d4-4c0b-4b58-8474-a7b768834def.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":4307553,"duration_in_seconds":330}]},{"id":"6b5823a5-eebb-40d4-bd33-19bd00fdc8f0","title":"Episode 002: 1964-10-07 | The Lost .50-Cal","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/002","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, I explore an entry from my grandfather Bill Lowie's Vietnam War diary, dated October 7, 1964. In this account, Popi recounts the tense recovery of military equipment after a U.S. Mohawk reconnaissance aircraft is shot down near his base. After the pilot jettisoned his .50-caliber guns to lighten the aircraft, Popi's unit was dispatched to retrieve them. One of the UH-1B helicopters took six hits from enemy fire, underscoring the perilous nature of these missions.\n\nI also dive into the history of the OV-1 Mohawk and the UH-1 \"Huey,\" discussing the critical role these aircraft played in Vietnam. This episode sheds light on the U.S. military's partnership with the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) and reflects on the broader implications of military advisory roles in foreign conflicts.\n\nAccompanied by a photo of a meeting between U.S. and ARVN officers, today's episode captures the risks and complexities of military operations in Vietnam.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n-A recovery mission after a Mohawk aircraft is shot down.\n-The strategic importance of the Huey during the Vietnam War.\n-The significance of U.S. military advisors working with ARVN forces.\n-Reflections on the evolving role of military advisors and their impact in global conflicts.\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A still photo of an OV-1 Mohawk airplane and H-34 helicopter sitting on a tarmac.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com — I’d love to hear from you!\n\nVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MohawkAircraft #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, I explore an entry from my grandfather Bill Lowie\u0026#39;s Vietnam War diary, dated October 7, 1964. In this account, Popi recounts the tense recovery of military equipment after a U.S. Mohawk reconnaissance aircraft is shot down near his base. After the pilot jettisoned his .50-caliber guns to lighten the aircraft, Popi\u0026#39;s unit was dispatched to retrieve them. One of the UH-1B helicopters took six hits from enemy fire, underscoring the perilous nature of these missions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eI also dive into the history of the OV-1 Mohawk and the UH-1 \u0026quot;Huey,\u0026quot; discussing the critical role these aircraft played in Vietnam. This episode sheds light on the U.S. military\u0026#39;s partnership with the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) and reflects on the broader implications of military advisory roles in foreign conflicts.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a photo of a meeting between U.S. and ARVN officers, today\u0026#39;s episode captures the risks and complexities of military operations in Vietnam.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003cbr\u003e\n-A recovery mission after a Mohawk aircraft is shot down.\u003cbr\u003e\n-The strategic importance of the Huey during the Vietnam War.\u003cbr\u003e\n-The significance of U.S. military advisors working with ARVN forces.\u003cbr\u003e\n-Reflections on the evolving role of military advisors and their impact in global conflicts.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A still photo of an OV-1 Mohawk airplane and H-34 helicopter sitting on a tarmac.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYouTube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e — I’d love to hear from you!\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eVietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MohawkAircraft #MilitaryHistory #InheritTheStories\u003c/h1\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, I explore an entry from my grandfather Bill Lowie's Vietnam War diary, dated October 7, 1964. In this account, Popi recounts the tense recovery of military equipment after a U.S. Mohawk reconnaissance aircraft is shot down near his base. After the pilot jettisoned his .50-caliber guns to lighten the aircraft, Popi's unit was dispatched to retrieve them. One of the UH-1B helicopters took six hits from enemy fire, underscoring the perilous nature of these missions.\r\n\r\nI also dive into the history of the OV-1 Mohawk and the UH-1 \"Huey,\" discussing the critical role these aircraft played in Vietnam. This episode sheds light on the U.S. military's partnership with the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) and reflects on the broader implications of military advisory roles in foreign conflicts.","date_published":"2024-10-07T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/6b5823a5-eebb-40d4-bd33-19bd00fdc8f0.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":8425592,"duration_in_seconds":628}]},{"id":"8e78bc2a-a5fd-4e36-8d4d-17fd27137b90","title":"Episode 001: 1964-10-06 | Saved by a Flak Vest","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/001","content_text":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, I dive into the very first entry from my grandfather Bill Lowie's Vietnam War diary, dated October 6, 1964. Serving as a helicopter pilot in the 114th Assault Helicopter Company, Bill recounts a close call involving Specialist Kelley, a crew-chief and gunman who narrowly avoided serious injury when a .30-caliber bullet pierced through his helicopter.\n\nI also explore the history and significance of the 114th \"Knights of the Air\" and their critical role in transporting troops during high-risk assault missions. Additionally, I reflect on the normalization of life-threatening situations for these men and the technological advancements that kept them alive.\n\nAccompanied by a rare photo of Kelley, today’s episode offers a glimpse into the realities of war, where even a minor injury tells a larger story of survival.\n\nWhat’s Covered:\n\n-The first entry of Bill Lowie's war diary from Vietnam\n-Specialist Kelley's near miss with a .30-caliber bullet\n-The role of helicopters in the Vietnam War and the 114th Assault Helicopter Company\n-Reflections on the dangers of military life and the normalization of war\n-Historical context about flak vests and ballistic armor used in combat\n\n📷 Featured Photo: A picture of Specialist Kelley loading a Huey gunship, captured by Bill during his service.\n\n🔔 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.\n\nFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\n\nYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\nX: https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\n\n📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\nI’d love to hear from you.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Dearest Suzie, I dive into the very first entry from my grandfather Bill Lowie\u0026#39;s Vietnam War diary, dated October 6, 1964. Serving as a helicopter pilot in the 114th Assault Helicopter Company, Bill recounts a close call involving Specialist Kelley, a crew-chief and gunman who narrowly avoided serious injury when a .30-caliber bullet pierced through his helicopter.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eI also explore the history and significance of the 114th \u0026quot;Knights of the Air\u0026quot; and their critical role in transporting troops during high-risk assault missions. Additionally, I reflect on the normalization of life-threatening situations for these men and the technological advancements that kept them alive.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by a rare photo of Kelley, today’s episode offers a glimpse into the realities of war, where even a minor injury tells a larger story of survival.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s Covered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e-The first entry of Bill Lowie\u0026#39;s war diary from Vietnam\u003cbr\u003e\n-Specialist Kelley\u0026#39;s near miss with a .30-caliber bullet\u003cbr\u003e\n-The role of helicopters in the Vietnam War and the 114th Assault Helicopter Company\u003cbr\u003e\n-Reflections on the dangers of military life and the normalization of war\u003cbr\u003e\n-Historical context about flak vests and ballistic armor used in combat\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📷 Featured Photo: A picture of Specialist Kelley loading a Huey gunship, captured by Bill during his service.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e🔔 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow Dearest Suzie on social media:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYoutube: \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nX: \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📧 Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at \u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nI’d love to hear from you.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we dive into the very first entry from my grandfather Bill Lowie's Vietnam War diary, dated October 6, 1964. Serving as a helicopter pilot in the 114th Assault Helicopter Company, Bill recounts a close call involving Specialist Kelley, a crew-chief and gunman who narrowly avoided serious injury when a .30-caliber bullet pierced through his helicopter. Thanks to his flak vest, Kelly walked away with only a bruise, a reminder of the constant danger these soldiers faced.\r\n\r\nWe also explore the history and significance of the 114th \"Knights of the Air\" and their critical role in transporting troops during high-risk assault missions. Additionally, I reflect on the normalization of life-threatening situations for these men and the technological advancements that kept them alive.\r\n\r\nAccompanied by a rare photo of Kelley, today’s episode offers a glimpse into the realities of war, where even a minor injury tells a larger story of survival.","date_published":"2024-10-06T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/8e78bc2a-a5fd-4e36-8d4d-17fd27137b90.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":6094655,"duration_in_seconds":404}]},{"id":"713eb246-64b9-4cb1-b1f7-febf05a97d48","title":"Episode 000: Introduction | The Projector and Its Family","url":"https://dearestsuzie.fireside.fm/000","content_text":"Welcome to Dearest Suzie, a podcast and photo series that brings to life the personal letters, diary entries, and photographs of U.S. Army helicopter pilot William “Bill” Lowie during his service in the Vietnam War. In this introductory episode, host Alexander Lowie—Bill’s grandson and an anthropologist—sets the stage for a journey through family history and wartime memories.\n\nWith the 60th anniversary of the Vietnam War approaching, Alexander will share Bill’s experiences in a unique “on this day in history” format, pairing each diary entry or letter with a corresponding photograph. These materials offer a deeply personal glimpse into the war, with over 100 letters to his wife, Susan (“Suzie”), and more than 500 photos captured during his deployment.\n\nMore than just a historical archive, Dearest Suzie is about discovery, reflection, and connection. Whether you’re interested in military history, personal stories, or exploring your own family’s past, this podcast encourages you to listen, learn, and share your own stories. Join us as we uncover Bill’s memories, one letter at a time.\n\nTune in to hear how a seemingly simple slideshow unlocked layers of family history and what it means to inherit not just the memories we cherish, but the ones we hide away. This episode blends reflection, storytelling, and a deeper dive into how family narratives shape who we are.\n\nHighlights:\n\n-Memories from a special family trip to \"Lowie Mountain\"\n-Popi’s slideshow presentation and its lasting impact\n-Reflections on the untold struggles and challenges passed down through generations\n-The inheritance of family stories—both the cherished and the hidden\n\nFollow the show here:\n\nYoutube\nhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\n\nInstagram\nhttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\n\nX\nhttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\n\nEmail Alex here:\ndearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eWelcome to Dearest Suzie, a podcast and photo series that brings to life the personal letters, diary entries, and photographs of U.S. Army helicopter pilot William “Bill” Lowie during his service in the Vietnam War. In this introductory episode, host Alexander Lowie—Bill’s grandson and an anthropologist—sets the stage for a journey through family history and wartime memories.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith the 60th anniversary of the Vietnam War approaching, Alexander will share Bill’s experiences in a unique “on this day in history” format, pairing each diary entry or letter with a corresponding photograph. These materials offer a deeply personal glimpse into the war, with over 100 letters to his wife, Susan (“Suzie”), and more than 500 photos captured during his deployment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMore than just a historical archive, Dearest Suzie is about discovery, reflection, and connection. Whether you’re interested in military history, personal stories, or exploring your own family’s past, this podcast encourages you to listen, learn, and share your own stories. Join us as we uncover Bill’s memories, one letter at a time.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTune in to hear how a seemingly simple slideshow unlocked layers of family history and what it means to inherit not just the memories we cherish, but the ones we hide away. This episode blends reflection, storytelling, and a deeper dive into how family narratives shape who we are.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHighlights:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e-Memories from a special family trip to \u0026quot;Lowie Mountain\u0026quot;\u003cbr\u003e\n-Popi’s slideshow presentation and its lasting impact\u003cbr\u003e\n-Reflections on the untold struggles and challenges passed down through generations\u003cbr\u003e\n-The inheritance of family stories—both the cherished and the hidden\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFollow the show here:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYoutube\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GwqPyO061k0iaQRKwfjoQ\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInstagram\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.instagram.com/dearestsuziepodcast/\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eX\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https://x.com/DearestSuziePod\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://x.com/DearestSuziePod\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEmail Alex here:\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"mailto:dearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003edearestsuziepodcast@gmail.com\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"Welcome to Dearest Suzie, a podcast and photo series that brings to life the personal letters, diary entries, and photographs of U.S. Army helicopter pilot William “Bill” Lowie during his service in the Vietnam War. In this introductory episode, host Alexander Lowie—Bill’s grandson and an anthropologist—sets the stage for a journey through family history and wartime memories.\r\n\r\nWith the 60th anniversary of the Vietnam War approaching, Alexander will share Bill’s experiences in a unique “on this day in history” format, pairing each diary entry or letter with a corresponding photograph. These materials offer a deeply personal glimpse into the war, with over 100 letters to his wife, Susan (“Suzie”), and more than 500 photos captured during his deployment.\r\n\r\nMore than just a historical archive, Dearest Suzie is about discovery, reflection, and connection. Whether you’re interested in military history, personal stories, or exploring your own family’s past, this podcast encourages you to listen, learn, and share your own stories. Join us as we uncover Bill’s memories, one letter at a time.","date_published":"2024-10-01T04:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/34ce1b44-03da-4b0f-a2c9-7f6308f96950/713eb246-64b9-4cb1-b1f7-febf05a97d48.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":9166842,"duration_in_seconds":730}]}]}