We were privileged to hear first hand from Dave Binder about his experiences as a young sailor in the Viet Nam War. He served on the USS Hissem, classified as a "small ship" with a crew of 150 fellow sailors. The small ships were found to be exceptionally dangerous as they were not particularly fast nor well-armed. Dave was assigned to the "Junk Patrol" Inspection Team moving up and down the coastal waters in a swift boat (PT boat successors) searching the many various sizes and types of Vietnamese boats nicknamed "Junks" in reference to their various designs and sizes.
Dave learned who he was as a person. Especially what was done for him and to him. Developed a high level of confidence in self. Respect was not optional but earned. Choices were very often governed by the way to lose the least. The Choices we make impact our whole life.
We thank Dave for his heartfelt sharing of his experiences. We thank him and all those who have, are and will serve to protect and defend our country.
