Vietnam Veteran, Daniel Heckstetter, was interviewed on August 16, 2021 in St. Louis, Missouri. SGT Heckstetter was a specialist draftsman in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. SGT Heckstetter served with the 1st Cavalry Division in Camp Evans in Vietnam, drafting maps, graphs, and charts for ongoing operations. SGT Heckstetter received the Bronze Star and Marksmanship Badge for his service in Vietnam. During the interview, SGT Heckstetter discusses his time and observations of Vietnam at Camp Evans. ‪@MakingHistoryProject‬
Summary:
Interview Background: Patrick Russell interviews Vietnam veteran Daniel Heckstetter on August 16, 2021, in St. Louis, Missouri, as part of the Making History Project. Daniel was born on May 16, 1947, in St. Louis, where he grew up in a Polish neighborhood, attended a two-room schoolhouse, and his father worked at Anheuser-Busch.
Education and Drafting: Daniel attended Hadley Technical High School, where he specialized in architectural drafting. His education included a mix of academic subjects and practical drafting work, leading to on-the-job training (OJT) at local companies. His drafting skills were recognized by the Army, sparing him from needing additional training upon being drafted in September 1966.
Military Service: Daniel's drafting skills were utilized by the Army, avoiding front-line duties. He was stationed at various bases, including Fort Benning and Eglin Air Force Base, before being sent to Vietnam. His work involved creating signs, maps, and other necessary items for military operations, and he experienced the realities of war, including attacks on his base.
Life in Vietnam: Daniel describes the daily life and challenges faced while stationed in Vietnam, including the psychological operations by the enemy, the impact of rocket attacks, and the camaraderie among soldiers. He also reflects on the use of weapons and the profound impact of witnessing the consequences of combat.
Post-Service Reflections: After returning from Vietnam, Daniel resumed his career in drafting and became active in the American Legion. He shares insights on the difficulties veterans face, including adjusting to civilian life and dealing with the memories of war. Daniel also comments on the similarities between his experiences and those of soldiers in more recent conflicts, like Afghanistan.