A Troop, 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry 25th ID - Vietnam

Personal Experience Narratives (War Stories)

    "A Letter to Dad" - Rachel D. Heath
Daughter of SP5 Larry Heath

Guys,

     This letter was written to a father, a Vietnam combat veteran, from his daughter who had lived with his rage, ghosts, and traumas for all of her fourteen years.  She sent the letter to her Dad while he was away for fourteen weeks hospitalized for treatment in a VA hospital for post traumatic stress disorders.

Hey Dad,

     What's happening?  I'm just sitting here in social studies listening about the Civil War.  Funny about how we study about all the same wars.  But we never seem to get around to that one war.  Yep, how'd you ever guess it?  Well, my final conclusion why we don't study it is too much true stuff would come out.  Too many people would have to answer unanswered questions.  You know as I'm sitting here having to listen to this stuff, it makes me madder and madder.  I can only imagine half the pain and anger you and all the other guys feel.  Daddy, if only I could take away some of  your pain you've been feeling for 20 years.  It's just not fair.  You've been done so bad all your life.  So has Mom.  For once I want ya'll to enjoy life.  You had one year of your life taken away and many more from the pain and the memories.  Dad, you just turn so cold against everyone when you think about it.  Daddy, if only you knew how much I respect and look up to you.  You and all those guys up there are my heroes.  Not even Axl, Michael Jordan or anybody else can have my total respect.  That is I would never call them my heroes 'cause you are.  This may not mean much, but Daddy you are great and I love you!

                                         Your proud Daughter,

                                        Rachel D. Heath      

Stories can be freely used by former members of 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry who served with the unit in Vietnam. Use is granted for personal use only. Use on any other web site or in commercial publications is prohibited unless permission is obtained from the story's owner.  Contact us by email for information on ownership of these stories.

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