Description

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From its inception, graduates of the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas, now Texas A&M University, have marched off to fight in every conflict in which the United States has been involved. The Vietnam War was no different. The Corps of Cadets produced more officers for the conflict in Southeast Asia than any institution other than the US service academies. Michael Lee Lanning, Texas A&M University class of 1968, has now gathered over three dozen recollections from those who served.

As Lanning points out, “anytime Aggie Vietnam veterans get together—whether it is two or two hundred of them—war stories begin.” The tales they relate about the paddies, the jungles, the highlands, the waterways, and the airways provide these veterans with an even greater understanding of the war they survived. They also allow glimpses into the frequent dangers of firefights, the camaraderie of patrol, and often humorous responses to inexplicable situations.

These revelations provide insight not only into the realities of war but also speak to the character of the graduates of Texas A&M University. As Lanning concludes, “these war stories are as much a part of service as is that old green duffle bag, a few rows of colorful ribbons, and a pride that does not diminish. In reality, there is only one story about the Vietnam War. We all just tell it differently.” 

About the Author

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MICHAEL LEE LANNING, a retired lieutenant colonel who served in Vietnam, is the author of sixteen nonfiction books on military history, including The Only War We Had: A Platoon Leader’s Journal of Vietnam and Vietnam, 1969–1970: A Company Commander’s Journal. He lives in Crystal Beach, Texas.

Praise For…

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“Once again, Colonel Lanning recognizes and tells the stories of those who have served. Great read.”—Tony Buzbee '90
 
— Tony Buzbee

“Texas Aggies in Vietnam does a tremendous service by recording the experiences of a number of Aggies who served honorably in Vietnam. This book is a great inspiration for other generations, especially Aggies, who have committed to serve their country in the military. When Aggies come together for their annual muster on 21 April, it is to remember the sacrifices of men such as those who served in, over, and around Vietnam. Lanning’s book is a testament to their sacrifices.” —On Point: The Journal of Army History
— On Point: The Journal of Army History

“If you are interested in the Vietnam War, the book is well worth reading. It does a tremendous job of showing the part that Texas Aggies played in that conflict.”—The Journal of America’s Military Past
— The Journal of America’s Military Past