Ben Franklin (2017)
Vietnam War Oral Histories
Details
Collection:LPB
Genre: Interview
Place Covered: Baton Rouge, East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, Vietnam
Copyright Holder: Louisiana Educational Television Authority
Date Issued: 2017-08-09
Duration: 00:19:00
Subjects: Vietnam War, 1961-1975 | United States. Navy | Military | Veterans
Contributors:
- Franklin, Ben Interviewee
Description
An oral history interview conducted on August 9, 2017, with Ben Franklin of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Franklin served as a helicopter pilot in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He discusses: his decision to join the Navy; the formation of his unit HAL-3, or Helicopter Attack Squadron Light 3; their role in providing air support for the PBRs (Patrol Boat, River) in the Mekong Delta; the similarities between the Mekong River Delta and the Mississippi River Delta; a typical night mission; the negative treatment he received when he returned home; the politics of the war; and his advice for young people who are interested in joining the military.