Edward Strabel and Glynn Strabel
Recorded
May 8, 2023
Archived
May 8, 2023
40:50 minutes
0:00 / 0:00
Id:
ddv002465
Description
Edward "Ed" Strabel (78) is interviewed by his wife, Glynn Strabel (71), particularly surrounding his service in the Vietnam War.Subject Log / Time Code
Glenn Strabel (GS) asks Edward "Ed" Strabel (ES) about his background. He describes growing up in Chicago, Illinois and his decision to enlist to fight in the Vietnam War.
ES describes the various duties he carried out during his two and a half years in Vietnam.
ES paints a picture of what it was like to be in areas sprayed by Agent Orange.
ES tells the story of when he and his fellow soldiers shot and killed a tiger.
ES talks about the dangers he faced. He also describes the firepower and tactics of his own units.
ES recalls the methods his units employed to keep morale up.
ES remembers times in which he and other soldiers had beer for breakfast.
ES tells the story of when he was injured by a fragment of shrapnel that embedded into his leg.
ES describes different moments in his service where he felt he was at risk of death.
ES touches on his perceived lack of PTSD.
ES contends that his toughest job in the military was writing. He describes the previous difficulty he had with writing in school.
ES gives an overview of the awards he received for his military service.
ES provides a synopsis of the different occupations he had after serving, including attending university, rejoining the military, teaching physical education, running a bed and breakfast, and more.
ES explains how part of his motivation to sign up for the military was to get away from the crime in his hometown of Chicago, Illinois.
ES explains a "sixth sense" to detect danger that he developed during his military service.
ES reflects on the Mỹ Lai Massacre and recalls his reaction to hearing about it while still posted in Vietnam.
ES describes the close relationships he formed in squads and platoons with individuals of various different backgrounds .
ES recalls one man he served with seeking injuries to receive Purple Heart military decorations.
ES describes why he enjoyed his time in the military and what he liked about Vietnam.
Participants
- Edward Strabel
- Glynn Strabel