To those that watched my interview thank you. I know I jumped around at different times but wanted to make sure I left nothing out. One thing I noticed was when I said I arrived at Fort Riley KS no one was there I was meaning the unit I was being assigned to wasn’t there, I was the only on base at that time. The 9th Infantry division was already there training. Sorry about any confusion. Be glad to answer any questions you may have.
This was a fantastic interview, I’m a current 92M the current Mortary affairs MOS and I’m always looking for more history on us, thank you for preforming the most important job in the army.
My oldest brother was mortally wounded in Vietnam August 30, 1968. He died September 4, 1968 at the 24th Evac hospital at Long Bihn. And I’ve often wondered about his journey home. This interview was instrumental in answering those questions. Thanks so much Roger….And welcome home.
Sorry for your loss Jimmy. The soldier I mentioned in the video died at the 24th Evac hospital at Long Bihn. The Graves Registration unit was right across the street form the hospital and very busy in 67.
Absolutely something I never thought about. I mean, I know a soldier in Vietnam who's killed gets placed into a body bag but I never thought much about it after that. Roger and his fellow mortuary activities soldiers did a job that is almost never talked about..until now. THANK YOU Roger for your service and what you did to send soldiers home on their final journey.
Thank you Mr. Davidson for sharing your story. I knew a Marine with Echo company that was KIA on May 3rd 1967 on hill 881N. To all that served Thank you and God bless...
Hell of a tough job that was very important! Salute to you for doing your best to ensure those boys were well taken care of with dignity and respect. Well done sir!
You poor, brave, hell-of-a-man. You had to do an awful job, and should be proud of yourself. One thing to fire a gun, entirely another to deal with the results. I admire you more than you know, and thank YOU for your service, All the best for your future. Andy
All of You men and women who answered that call are my heroes. I appreciate your honesty, courage and grace. Your desire to make the best of a sad scenario moves me. May you have peace, you have endured enough. Much love.
Mr. Davidson you are a true hero and patriot. I cant even find words for how important storys like yours are. Thank you so much for your service and time. You are an amazing storyteller and speaker, thank you for taking the time to share this.
I met a guy at the VA in San Antonio in the late 1970s who was suffering from severe PTSD although he had never been to Vietnam itself. He had spent almost a year at the western center where the bodies were sent, unloading the KIA troops, and it had finally gotten to him and he had a major breakdown. He said every day he was unloading bodies in body bags and he said the smell was over whelming. He had told me he doubted he would ever get that smell out of his memory. It sounds like Mr Davidson's job was even harder. I really feel for you, man. There are not many people who could have done that. God bless you.
Thank you for your post. I'm not sure what took place in the late 70s as the Vietnam conflict was winding down when it comes to body bags being used but it makes sense as the mortuary would be closing also. GOOD point.
Gena ; that smell never leaves you. My company was tasked in desert storm with burying multiple KIA Iraqis along a strafed/bombed road. I knew a good man Lawarnce Donnely. He was a black man that joined the marines in 1942. Because he was black he was not allowed to be "combat" marine. He served directly behind the front on islands where he was tasked with cleaning vehicles and equipment to be salvaged. He recalled tanks and amtraks that were full of horror..the maggots , the meat. He could not eat meat for several years. This and what numerous WW2 veterans and two WW1 veterans had told me I realized when it hit my nostrils. It is a smell that shocks and saddens you It saps you of hope..it is disheartening. I did not have the aversion to meat but my appetite was diminished for sure for a spell.
@@rogerdavidson1036 Hi Mr Davidson, I began my career in this field on the civilian side at sixteen years old. I was accepted into an internship for excelling in science and worked at a major metropolitan coroner’s office. I have remained in this field as a coroner’s investigator and I can relate to you. I have seen things that are unspeakable and I am a shell of a person. Thank you for your service. Go Navy Fly Navy
The smell of death is something you just can't forget easily. It's bad enough knowing they are dead, but decomposition is tough to deal with. We put cloves in our masks in the autopsy room (civilian) and we had special air suction vents and clean air circulation going in a special room, but it only helps some. You learn to tolerate it and then leave it at work when you go home. But those poor military guys didn't have the benefit of what we had, plus, those soldiers were their brothers in service, making it even more difficult. Our hearts go out to them, especially because they are TOO YOUNG to have to be dealing with that very serious part of life and death -- age 19 is still a boy! So we respect and thank those like Roger Davidson and those before and after him, who must deal close up, with the tragedy of death.
Thank you for your difficult service, Roger. I was an ER medic at Tan Son Nhut AB, right next door to the mortuary on the night shift from Jul 68 to Jul 69. Every night we could smell the horrible odors and could tell if it was a burn death "crispy critters" was the gallows humor term as was the "floaters" from the rice paddies term). We had a pickup on the flight line one night, a C-130 brought in 3 body bags and as we transferred them to the field ambulance, I noticed one bag was small. I was then told that it was the patrol dog for the two guys in the other bags. I had tears in my eyes as I drove to the mortuary. One time someone came into our ER and ask for the menthol smelling liquid used for back pain. I asked the Msgt how many he wanted and he asked for 4. I told him we could check out his back but he said the bodies they had just gotten in were in really bad shape and he would douse them with the lineament to help with the odors. It was hard getting used to the smells when eating midnight chow. But now if I smell a dead animal that is rotting, it triggers all that back. The most sorrowful thing was watching the flat bed semis with the aluminum transfer cases leaving the mortuary on their way to the flight line. They'd then be transferred into a C-141 Starlifter to the States. Welcome home, Roger...
Thank you too, for your service, I think many have no idea how tough some of the times like you've stated were, WAR IS HELL, like General Sherman said long ago, but without Vets to share their story like you and Roger did, many would have no idea of just how awful some other parts of war really are. Fighting is hell, but so is the aftermath of it when soldiers are killed. I've heard reference to what you mentioned about the names for the dead, and i think there is a whole other part of war that most people cannot even relate to, it is so atrocious, but some of us supported you in that war, in spite of those who did not here at home, and we will always be grateful to you for your service and for those who were with you in Viet Nam.
Thank you for your reply, crazy my dad was a ww2 vet, I remember him telling me there is nothing worse then a badly burned dead person. I sit and wonder now, when and why did he tell me that, obviously he was trying to relate his experiences, but sadly he was out of my life at like 10. He ruined his family life and seriously became mentally screwed at like 50 on. He also said War is hell. I now understand, because in how it lasts for generations (in my case). He left the battlefield in 1945, but I feel I am still fighting it with my life in 2022. It effects generations to come.
@@califcamper Children don't always understand why parents act like they do. Be assured they are probably trying to be normal but scars from their past sometimes affect them negatively and make it difficult for them to forget and go on in life. I'm sorry you didn't have what you perceive to be a normal family relationship but please don't let it ruin your life now! YOU are in control of your life now, make the best of it, don't let doubts of your past ruin your future. If you feel that you are having problems coping, please get some psychological counseling, there is NO shame in asking for a little help to make things better and it CAN help a lot. NOTHING is ever perfect in most families, but we live, grow up, put the past behind us and try to make the best life we can for ourselves and our families, or those around us. Good luck to you!
@@mjleger4555 what a beautiful post. Thank you. Agree with every word. I listened to this gentleman's interview with intrigue and respect and GRATITUDE, as that - as any conflict, could have just as easily be me or my close ones. Listening to this, Mr Davidson's integrity and humility is overwhelmingly clear. He went the extra mile for his boys and their families. Respect from the UK.
@@sampsonbrass8972 Thank you and you are so right! Most civilians have no idea on earth of some of the horrors of war, dealing with the fallen injured and deceased, but someone must do it and I think that those who do that job really care deep down inside. They may make light of it at the time, because they are just coping the best way they can, but they are trying to make things better for the families left behind to claim the loved one, they know it's important and they have our undying gratitude! They aren't' dealing with just another body, they KNOW it is someone's son or brother or dear friend that they are dealing with, and I believe they consider that when taking care of those unfortunate souls who have been left in their care. I have dealt with deceased patients in civilian life, and we always consider the ones left behind in how we deal with it. The dead are not alone, even in death, there is always someone out there who cares, we care too, and it's those left behind that we consider when working with them. I am grateful there are also caring people in the military, like Mr. Davidson and others, who feel that way too. It is tragic that he had to see the difficult part of death when he was so young, but it's obvious it left him with much compassion and that is admirable.
These kinds of interviewees should have some sort of venues at High schools around the country. There are so many kids who never had the opportunities for closure or reflection for lost dads and brothers. This gent is very introspective and humble. The world needs more humans like this. Wise beyond his years and respectful. Thanks for your Service.
Agree 100% you mention High Schools which is a GREAT point as I've always said you if want to know what a Vietnam Veteran looked like in the day, look at High School seniors, most enlisted at 17-18, looking back that was very sad.
Thank you Brother. Am a retired combat veteran. And I am so sad seeing this horrible harvest of young bodies continues today. Pray for peace and stop this insanity of war somehow someway.
I CAN'T find words to describe the huge amount of RESPECT I have for this extraordenairy GREAT MAN!!! WHAT A BURDEN TO CARY SUCH PICTURES/EXPERIENCES IN YOUR HEAD ALL YOUR LIFE
Thank you Roger for all you did in Vietnam. I often listen to the Vietnam vet stories. I am not a vet but grew up while the war raged on and remember the nightly body count on the evening news. Your story has brought new meaning to what took place what seems long ago. Your story has been the most riveting and intense of all the ones I have listened to. Your are to me a hero. Thank you for all you’ve done. With love live a good life.
Very insightful interview and very glad that roger told his story I would like to see him do another interview. He did a very good job and served his country well. Hopefully he knows that he helped many young men return home to their families because he was one of the ones who actually went and got them and gave them the honour and respect they earned in death. He is a very good man much respect from Australia mate
Roger thank you for fighting to keep us all free. My brother was a Marine over there for 18 months. You guys need to feel very proud for the job you all did.Words can not describe the love and respect I have for all of you!!
Sir I hope you get this message well you did a great service to this country and your comrades something you should be very proud of thank you so much for everything.
Bravery and courage comes in many forms and he is extremely brave to do what he did. His actions no doubt help families cope with the loss of their son brother husband etc. Very few people could do that job and he deserves great respect for his service.
Roger.. I re watched your moving video today. I hope you now appreciate fully the enormity of what you did and what a positive contribution you made to helping the fallen and their grieving relatives. You have my full respect. You are a very special person who did what had to be done and what very few people could have done. Not all hero's wear capes and you sir are a true hero
I was drafted in 68 and went to Vietnam in 69 when my first born was 20 days old. I went over as infantry {11b} but got put in an artillery battery {13b} soon after arriving. I am thankful that i did not have your job Roger. God Bless you and yours and give you peace always. THANK YOU for doing what you did.
Thank you Roger for all that you have done, and for having empathy for your fellow man. I am always awestruck over how emotionally connected we are after 20, 40, 60 + yrs go bye and it can feel like it happened yesterday & the tears start to fall again. I met a man that was on a destroyer the USS Renshaw. He went in the navy in his late twenties, he saw tough action in the Pacific & he shared a story with me about his friends brother who was a captain that died at Pearl Harbor, he cried as he spoke. His wife later thanked me because he had never spoken about it before. He was 90 yrs old. The wounds are deep and still hurt.
No words can approach what this man endured. Many had terrible experiences and there is no prize for the worst. Everyone had a job to do. But this man? What strength comes forth to witness this?
So far 13 thousand views. At least that many people know the respect you and your brethren showed to maintain the dignity in death that those soldiers and their families deserved. While many couldn't be viewed for obvious reasons, you did the best you could to make it possible for many families to see their loved ones for the last time. Your compassion and honor to the fallen is greatly admired and appreciated. Thank you.
Roger Davidson I believe I followed you at Blackhorse GR. I transferred from long bing 493 fld. Svc. Co. blackhorse 506th in April 69. I joined Cpl Charlie Bramble already stationed there. I was there until October 69. I was an RA schooled at Ft. Lee Va. with previous civilian experience before I enlisted. After college I taught at Indiana college of funeral service for 38 years. Retired in 2014.
As a native Hoosier who went in via the Induction Center Indy . I was in lll Corp also . Only worked out of XL though . I got out in 71 . Never heard of that college . Where was it in Indiana brother ? doc bg (medic ) 68-71 . Lawrence and Oaklandon ...
This is the most confronting vet interview I've seen. Thank you for telling your story and for all you did in Vietnam Roger. I hope you find happiness and peace.
Mr. Davidson you are a beautiful person. Thank you for your service. Your eyes had to see what they saw at such a young age and the things you had to do at such a young age is not anything any young man should ever have to do. I pray you have peace and can have rest in your mind. You are nothing but the best a man can be. You are important and special and appreciated. Thank you for sharing your stories. We need to hear them. It's imperative to have a history of Vietnam. When I was in high school in the 80's there may have been one chapter in the history book dedicated to Vietnam. Just to make the decision to do this interview must have been so very difficult. It is so important for future generations to never forget the sacrifices people have had to make for America, for civilians. Thank you. I will say a prayer for you to have peace of mind and calm.
Thank you my friend. I said in a early post most Vietnam veteran could not smoke or drink after returning as the Federal age for both was 21....That was bullshit.
This is by far the most gut wrenching Vietnam interview I’ve ever listened to my Lord what this man had to do I hope he’s off to heaven someday cause he damn sure went through hell God bless you and thank you so much for your service
Thank you so much for sharing. We appreciate so much your service to our country. Few could have done what you did. I am a retired ICU nurse but doubt I could. Thank you!
I'm in Vietnam veteran also and my friend wrote a book called coffins of tin and it's all about the grave registration he spent two or three years riding the book did a ton of research and did a terrific job it would be worth reading and might help you
Wow, powerful story that we didn't think about in the field. Thank you for your service to the country, and their families. Families being able to view those heroes one last time was very important. Vietnam Veteran I Corp. 1967-1969
Roger, first of all I thank your your service and dedication. My brother served Dust Off and was also exposed to so many killed and wounded. I watch many of these videos to learn what he went through. I'm very proud for what my brother did and told him such, and that he was a hero. It's a shame your weren't awarded that accommodation you so well deserved. My brother has passed at the age of 59 and was also haunted by his experiences for the remainder of his life. No one could ever know what you guy's went through without these interviews. Thank you for doing this and God Bless.
Anthony: Your brother was the ones I looked up to. The pilots & door gunners were exposed every time they took off on a mission. I flew on many choppers going from Black Horse base camp ( 11th Armored Calvary Regiment ) to the main mortuary, Graves Registration had priority on getting choppers for flights to Tan-Son-Nhut.
You're an amazing person, thanks for sharing your story. Dear God the horror of it all. I hope you are able to come to terms with it all. Thank you for one hell of a job well done.
My brother, I can see your pain. You cared for our brothers in the worst of war. I thank you for the job you did with the love and care for them. Flew a couple of KIA brothers there. God bless you and pray He gives you peace. A Cav Trooper.
Two things, I appreciated the interviewer - her voice and demeanor. And, I would like to convey my utmost respect to the gentleman. You and your group epitomize the term, "Unsung Heroes".
As a veteran myself I want too thank you for you’re service. I was 17 when I went into the army and was out before Vietnam got going. I’m so proud of men like you who prepared the soldiers too be shipped back. I can only imagine what it was like.Take Care and God Bless You🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Elvin: Thank you for your service also. Your words are kind. The bodies were one thing but the personal effects was something that haunts me to this day, Wedding pictures, family pictures, pictures of new born babies, no end to it.
Thank you for sharing your story sir. That had to be the hardest job. Too bad there wasn’t enough time to show us the pictures he brought. I know he felt worse when he saw a ring on someone who was deceased,but I feel worse for the ones who never even got to experience love,marriage,family because they were too young and thrown into this war right out of high school.
Brian: Your feelings are spot on. At the time 55 years ago at 20 years old that was the way I was thinking. There was no communication of any kind except letters, I didn't mean to sound selfish.
I can't imagine the pain and thoughts that's been carried by those who have dealt with war and its horrors ! And to those who fought in Vietnam welcome home and thank you .
Mr Davidson, Thank you for your service. It is obvious you served honorably and performed a difficult job. Stay strong and always remember you were selected for a reason. I salute you Sir.
This was such an interesting and touching interview. I do not have words to express how much I love and respect our veterans. Thank you for your service. You had the toughest job there.
thank you for everything you had to go through. I have seen death up close multiple times and it is always a jarring experience, no matter how used to it one thinks they are. it's the kind of thing that sticks with you so thank you
Unbelievable commentary what that man went through I'm full of tears listening to him god bless you veterans who lived to tell the truth about the horrors of war these politician morrons who thrive on war should listen to these brave men who don't get the merit they deserve
This is so important. So grateful for his service, for not loosing the humane and kindness needed even though almost 1,000 bodies been seen and properly taken care before coming back home. 🇺🇸🙏
Forget their faces.Forget their names. Forget the materials that touched your flesh. Just remember the package.It's a wonderful present that you gave to all those families.But don't let it bring you down.A responsible person had to do it and you are that guy! God bless. Tom Lyons
There is no more sobering site, or experience, than making the dead Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine ready to go on their final journey HOME to their Loved ones. As a Navy Corpsman I held each life or death in highest regard, I took my oath deadly serious! DOC MIKE USN 70-74
Thank you for your service Mr. Davidson!!! I really appreciate you telling your experience which I never thought of the mortuary side of wars and working very hard so families could view their family member one last time.
I am so proud of you and the help and care and support you provided for the families of those who passed. Your job was invaluable and one of the most difficult in the military. You deserve a medal.
For what it's worth. I would have liked to see a picture of you in your uniform from back then. Stay strong and keep talking your story. I was a pre-teen when you were over there and I remember watching Walter Cronkite every night. I think it was on Friday's show he would announce the week's casualty count from Vietnam. Always averaged about 500 US troops and 1500 vietcong, week after week after week. Now I know how you were in the thick of it back then. God bless you Sargent Davidson. You are my hero.
Hey Roger, I want you to know that I appreciate the very difficult job you did in Viet Nam. It is one of those things I never thought about while I was there and not since. The guys we lost were flown out by chopper and We never knew about the process after that. Thank you for telling us your story. Thank you for your service.
Thank you for the courage and kindness to tell your story----it is very important to those of us who lost loved ones to know they were respected and honored in their final days serving.
Excellent Interview thank you Rodger for sharing your sacred memories; you are a very special person who showed compassion for the fallen. I Will remember you and your fallen colleagues at daily mass. May God bless you abundantly. Greetings from Ireland
To those that watched my interview thank you. I know I jumped around at different times but wanted to make sure I left nothing out. One thing I noticed was when I said I arrived at Fort Riley KS no one was there I was meaning the unit I was being assigned to wasn’t there, I was the only on base at that time. The 9th Infantry division was already there training. Sorry about any confusion. Be glad to answer any questions you may have.
David you are a brave man, you did your best.
This was a fantastic interview, I’m a current 92M the current Mortary affairs MOS and I’m always looking for more history on us, thank you for preforming the most important job in the army.
God Bless you Roger!!! Stay safe and stay blessed!!! #SemperFi 🇺🇸
It was a great interview, Roger. Please see the comment I just put up. Take care. Bob Powell, CMSgt(USAF) Ret
@@rvnmedic1968 I can imagine what you saw. Thanks for your service my friend.
My oldest brother was mortally wounded in Vietnam August 30, 1968. He died September 4, 1968 at the 24th Evac hospital at Long Bihn. And I’ve often wondered about his journey home. This interview was instrumental in answering those questions. Thanks so much Roger….And welcome home.
Sorry for your loss Jimmy. The soldier I mentioned in the video died at the 24th Evac hospital at Long Bihn. The Graves Registration unit was right across the street form the hospital and very busy in 67.
@@rogerdavidson1036 images53.fotki.com/v1657/photos/8/158308/9565477/inLongBinh_TakenbyEdFortmiller-vi.jpg 24th Evac Hospital, Long Binh June 1969
RIP to your brother
May he RIP
Absolutely something I never thought about. I mean, I know a soldier in Vietnam who's killed gets placed into a body bag but I never thought much about it after that. Roger and his fellow mortuary activities soldiers did a job that is almost never talked about..until now. THANK YOU Roger for your service and what you did to send soldiers home on their final journey.
Volume ❓
@@edmcconnell2105 Volume? You lost me.
Thank you Mr. Davidson for sharing your story. I knew a Marine with Echo company that was KIA on May 3rd 1967 on hill 881N. To all that served Thank you and God bless...
Hell of a tough job that was very important! Salute to you for doing your best to ensure those boys were well taken care of with dignity and respect. Well done sir!
I thank you, I'm glad to know that our Harold "Jimmy" was taken care of with respect and honor.
Thank you Roger for trying to stay on focus (young interviewer, interrupting, with non essential questions) and your SERVICE.
Thanks so much, for your service. God bless
You poor, brave, hell-of-a-man.
You had to do an awful job, and should be proud of yourself.
One thing to fire a gun, entirely another to deal with the results.
I admire you more than you know, and thank YOU for your service,
All the best for your future.
Andy
All of You men and women who answered that call are my heroes.
I appreciate your honesty, courage and grace. Your desire to make the best of a sad scenario moves me.
May you have peace, you have endured enough. Much love.
Thank you.
Mr. Davidson you are a true hero and patriot. I cant even find words for how important storys like yours are. Thank you so much for your service and time. You are an amazing storyteller and speaker, thank you for taking the time to share this.
Thank you for watching my friend.
A brave man. Respect your respect.
Thank you, Sir, for your service.
I met a guy at the VA in San Antonio in the late 1970s who was suffering from severe PTSD although he had never been to Vietnam itself. He had spent almost a year at the western center where the bodies were sent, unloading the KIA troops, and it had finally gotten to him and he had a major breakdown. He said every day he was unloading bodies in body bags and he said the smell was over whelming. He had told me he doubted he would ever get that smell out of his memory. It sounds like Mr Davidson's job was even harder. I really feel for you, man. There are not many people who could have done that. God bless you.
Thank you for your post. I'm not sure what took place in the late 70s as the Vietnam conflict was winding down when it comes to body bags being used but it makes sense as the mortuary would be closing also. GOOD point.
Gena ; that smell never leaves you. My company was tasked in desert storm with burying multiple KIA Iraqis along a strafed/bombed road. I knew a good man Lawarnce Donnely. He was a black man that joined the marines in 1942. Because he was black he was not allowed to be "combat" marine. He served directly behind the front on islands where he was tasked with cleaning vehicles and equipment to be salvaged. He recalled tanks and amtraks that were full of horror..the maggots , the meat. He could not eat meat for several years. This and what numerous WW2 veterans and two WW1 veterans had told me I realized when it hit my nostrils. It is a smell that shocks and saddens you It saps you of hope..it is disheartening. I did not have the aversion to meat but my appetite was diminished for sure for a spell.
@@rogerdavidson1036 Hi Mr Davidson, I began my career in this field on the civilian side at sixteen years old. I was accepted into an internship for excelling in science and worked at a major metropolitan coroner’s office. I have remained in this field as a coroner’s investigator and I can relate to you. I have seen things that are unspeakable and I am a shell of a person. Thank you for your service. Go Navy Fly Navy
The smell of death is something you just can't forget easily. It's bad enough knowing they are dead, but decomposition is tough to deal with. We put cloves in our masks in the autopsy room (civilian) and we had special air suction vents and clean air circulation going in a special room, but it only helps some. You learn to tolerate it and then leave it at work when you go home. But those poor military guys didn't have the benefit of what we had, plus, those soldiers were their brothers in service, making it even more difficult. Our hearts go out to them, especially because they are TOO YOUNG to have to be dealing with that very serious part of life and death -- age 19 is still a boy! So we respect and thank those like Roger Davidson and those before and after him, who must deal close up, with the tragedy of death.
There is a special place in heaven for you, Sir. May God bless your soul. You humble me. Peace to you.
PROFOUND STORY. Your BRAVELY and COMPASSION is beyond my understanding .
THANK YOU SIR!!!
Thank you for your difficult service, Roger. I was an ER medic at Tan Son Nhut AB, right next door to the mortuary on the night shift from Jul 68 to Jul 69. Every night we could smell the horrible odors and could tell if it was a burn death "crispy critters" was the gallows humor term as was the "floaters" from the rice paddies term).
We had a pickup on the flight line one night, a C-130 brought in 3 body bags and as we transferred them to the field ambulance, I noticed one bag was small. I was then told that it was the patrol dog for the two guys in the other bags. I had tears in my eyes as I drove to the mortuary.
One time someone came into our ER and ask for the menthol smelling liquid used for back pain. I asked the Msgt how many he wanted and he asked for 4. I told him we could check out his back but he said the bodies they had just gotten in were in really bad shape and he would douse them with the lineament to help with the odors.
It was hard getting used to the smells when eating midnight chow. But now if I smell a dead animal that is rotting, it triggers all that back. The most sorrowful thing was watching the flat bed semis with the aluminum transfer cases leaving the mortuary on their way to the flight line. They'd then be transferred into a C-141 Starlifter to the States.
Welcome home, Roger...
Thank you too, for your service, I think many have no idea how tough some of the times like you've stated were, WAR IS HELL, like General Sherman said long ago, but without Vets to share their story like you and Roger did, many would have no idea of just how awful some other parts of war really are. Fighting is hell, but so is the aftermath of it when soldiers are killed. I've heard reference to what you mentioned about the names for the dead, and i think there is a whole other part of war that most people cannot even relate to, it is so atrocious, but some of us supported you in that war, in spite of those who did not here at home, and we will always be grateful to you for your service and for those who were with you in Viet Nam.
Thank you for your reply, crazy my dad was a ww2 vet, I remember him telling me there is nothing worse then a badly burned dead person. I sit and wonder now, when and why did he tell me that, obviously he was trying to relate his experiences, but sadly he was out of my life at like 10. He ruined his family life and seriously became mentally screwed at like 50 on. He also said War is hell. I now understand, because in how it lasts for generations (in my case). He left the battlefield in 1945, but I feel I am still fighting it with my life in 2022. It effects generations to come.
@@califcamper Children don't always understand why parents act like they do. Be assured they are probably trying to be normal but scars from their past sometimes affect them negatively and make it difficult for them to forget and go on in life. I'm sorry you didn't have what you perceive to be a normal family relationship but please don't let it ruin your life now! YOU are in control of your life now, make the best of it, don't let doubts of your past ruin your future. If you feel that you are having problems coping, please get some psychological counseling, there is NO shame in asking for a little help to make things better and it CAN help a lot. NOTHING is ever perfect in most families, but we live, grow up, put the past behind us and try to make the best life we can for ourselves and our families, or those around us. Good luck to you!
@@mjleger4555 what a beautiful post. Thank you. Agree with every word. I listened to this gentleman's interview with intrigue and respect and GRATITUDE, as that - as any conflict, could have just as easily be me or my close ones. Listening to this, Mr Davidson's integrity and humility is overwhelmingly clear. He went the extra mile for his boys and their families. Respect from the UK.
@@sampsonbrass8972 Thank you and you are so right! Most civilians have no idea on earth of some of the horrors of war, dealing with the fallen injured and deceased, but someone must do it and I think that those who do that job really care deep down inside. They may make light of it at the time, because they are just coping the best way they can, but they are trying to make things better for the families left behind to claim the loved one, they know it's important and they have our undying gratitude! They aren't' dealing with just another body, they KNOW it is someone's son or brother or dear friend that they are dealing with, and I believe they consider that when taking care of those unfortunate souls who have been left in their care.
I have dealt with deceased patients in civilian life, and we always consider the ones left behind in how we deal with it. The dead are not alone, even in death, there is always someone out there who cares, we care too, and it's those left behind that we consider when working with them. I am grateful there are also caring people in the military, like Mr. Davidson and others, who feel that way too. It is tragic that he had to see the difficult part of death when he was so young, but it's obvious it left him with much compassion and that is admirable.
These kinds of interviewees should have some sort of venues at High schools around the country. There are so many kids who never had the opportunities for closure or reflection for lost dads and brothers. This gent is very introspective and humble. The world needs more humans like this. Wise beyond his years and respectful. Thanks for your Service.
Agree 100% you mention High Schools which is a GREAT point as I've always said you if want to know what a Vietnam Veteran looked like in the day, look at High School seniors, most enlisted at 17-18, looking back that was very sad.
Thank you for your service Roger.
Thank you Brother. Am a retired combat veteran. And I am so sad seeing this horrible harvest of young bodies continues today. Pray for peace and stop this insanity of war somehow someway.
Agree 100%
I CAN'T find words to describe the huge amount of RESPECT I have for this extraordenairy GREAT MAN!!!
WHAT A BURDEN TO CARY SUCH PICTURES/EXPERIENCES IN YOUR HEAD ALL YOUR LIFE
Great respect for this man .
Thank you Roger for all you did in Vietnam. I often listen to the Vietnam vet stories. I am not a vet but grew up while the war raged on and remember the nightly body count on the evening news. Your story has brought new meaning to what took place what seems long ago. Your story has been the most riveting and intense of all the ones I have listened to. Your are to me a hero. Thank you for all you’ve done. With love live a good life.
Very insightful interview and very glad that roger told his story I would like to see him do another interview. He did a very good job and served his country well. Hopefully he knows that he helped many young men return home to their families because he was one of the ones who actually went and got them and gave them the honour and respect they earned in death. He is a very good man much respect from Australia mate
Roger, No one can imagine the experiences that that will forever haunt you. Thank you so much for relaying your story.
Roger thank you for fighting to keep us all free. My brother was a Marine over there for 18 months. You guys need to feel very proud for the job you all did.Words can not describe the love and respect I have for all of you!!
What a special man. That you for being who you are. Thank you Sir.
Thank you for watching the video, I'm taken back by the number of views.
Sir I hope you get this message well you did a great service to this country and your comrades something you should be very proud of thank you so much for everything.
Bravery and courage comes in many forms and he is extremely brave to do what he did. His actions no doubt help families cope with the loss of their son brother husband etc. Very few people could do that job and he deserves great respect for his service.
Thank you my friend for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man.
Roger.. I re watched your moving video today. I hope you now appreciate fully the enormity of what you did and what a positive contribution you made to helping the fallen and their grieving relatives. You have my full respect. You are a very special person who did what had to be done and what very few people could have done.
Not all hero's wear capes and you sir are a true hero
I was drafted in 68 and went to Vietnam in 69 when my first born was 20 days old. I went over as infantry {11b} but got put in an artillery battery {13b} soon after arriving. I am thankful that i did not have your job Roger. God Bless you and yours and give you peace always. THANK YOU for doing what you did.
Thank you Roger for all that you have done, and for having empathy for your fellow man. I am always awestruck over how emotionally connected we are after 20, 40, 60 + yrs go bye and it can feel like it happened yesterday & the tears start to fall again. I met a man that was on a destroyer the USS Renshaw. He went in the navy in his late twenties, he saw tough action in the Pacific & he shared a story with me about his friends brother who was a captain that died at Pearl Harbor, he cried as he spoke.
His wife later thanked me because he had never spoken about it before. He was 90 yrs old. The wounds are deep and still hurt.
Mr. Davidson, My Brother in Law, a Marine, was KIA in 1966 . You answered all my questions about how he was treated . Thank you
Thank you so much for all that you did for our Country
No words can approach what this man endured. Many had terrible experiences and there is no prize for the worst. Everyone had a job to do. But this man? What strength comes forth to witness this?
Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man.
So far 13 thousand views. At least that many people know the respect you and your brethren showed to maintain the dignity in death that those soldiers and their families deserved. While many couldn't be viewed for obvious reasons, you did the best you could to make it possible for many families to see their loved ones for the last time. Your compassion and honor to the fallen is greatly admired and appreciated. Thank you.
Thanks for your service Sgt! You are a truly great American Hero!!! May the rest of your days be spent in total and complete peace and dignity!!!!!!!!
Wow, that had to be so difficult. Much respect to you and what you went through
Thank you
Full respect sent to you for what you have done and for sharing your experiences. 🇺🇸
Thank you so much for the kind words.
really refreshing to just hear a normal guy who got drafted and wasn't interested in going. a better representation of reality than we often get.
Your words are true.
Roger Davidson
I believe I followed you at Blackhorse GR. I transferred from long bing 493 fld. Svc. Co. blackhorse 506th in April 69. I joined Cpl Charlie Bramble already stationed there. I was there until October 69. I was an RA schooled at Ft. Lee Va. with previous civilian experience before I enlisted.
After college I taught at Indiana college of funeral service for 38 years. Retired in 2014.
As a native Hoosier who went in via the Induction Center Indy . I was in lll Corp also . Only worked out of XL though . I got out in 71 . Never heard of that college . Where was it in Indiana brother ? doc bg (medic ) 68-71 . Lawrence and Oaklandon ...
This is the most confronting vet interview I've seen. Thank you for telling your story and for all you did in Vietnam Roger. I hope you find happiness and peace.
Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man who has found confront in these reply's.
thank you for your service Sir. And thank you so much for the respectful treatment of our fallen heros
Thanks for watching the video.
Mr. Davidson you are a beautiful person. Thank you for your service. Your eyes had to see what they saw at such a young age and the things you had to do at such a young age is not anything any young man should ever have to do. I pray you have peace and can have rest in your mind. You are nothing but the best a man can be. You are important and special and appreciated. Thank you for sharing your stories. We need to hear them. It's imperative to have a history of Vietnam. When I was in high school in the 80's there may have been one chapter in the history book dedicated to Vietnam. Just to make the decision to do this interview must have been so very difficult. It is so important for future generations to never forget the sacrifices people have had to make for America, for civilians. Thank you. I will say a prayer for you to have peace of mind and calm.
Thank you my friend. I said in a early post most Vietnam veteran could not smoke or drink after returning as the Federal age for both was 21....That was bullshit.
@@rogerdavidson1036man oh man, I loved listening to this story. Hell of a man
Thank you Roger for sharing your story and for your service.
What a wonderful man
Sir, you reached another person with your story. Thank you for sharing how important your duty was there.
Ultimate respect for you and your service to those who never made it back alive. It's a much more important job than most would realize. I was 6mos
This is by far the most gut wrenching Vietnam interview I’ve ever listened to my Lord what this man had to do I hope he’s off to heaven someday cause he damn sure went through hell God bless you and thank you so much for your service
Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man.
Thank you for all you did for the kids and their families. You and your co-workers should have all received medals for this sad work.
Roger Davidson thank you for sharing your story.
Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man. thank you for taking time to watch the video.
What an incredibly brave and compassionate man. Thank you Sir.
Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man.
Thank you so much for sharing. We appreciate so much your service to our country. Few could have done what you did. I am a retired ICU nurse but doubt I could. Thank you!
Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man. I couldn't do what you do.
I'm in Vietnam veteran also and my friend wrote a book called coffins of tin and it's all about the grave registration he spent two or three years riding the book did a ton of research and did a terrific job it would be worth reading and might help you
Wow, powerful story that we didn't think about in the field. Thank you for your service to the country, and their families. Families being able to view those heroes one last time was very important. Vietnam Veteran I Corp. 1967-1969
Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man. Thank you for your service my friend.
Thank you Roger. From one vet to another.
Roger, first of all I thank your your service and dedication. My brother served Dust Off and was also exposed to so many killed and wounded. I watch many of these videos to learn what he went through. I'm very proud for what my brother did and told him such, and that he was a hero. It's a shame your weren't awarded that accommodation you so well deserved. My brother has passed at the age of 59 and was also haunted by his experiences for the remainder of his life. No one could ever know what you guy's went through without these interviews. Thank you for doing this and God Bless.
Anthony: Your brother was the ones I looked up to. The pilots & door gunners were exposed every time they took off on a mission. I flew on many choppers going from Black Horse base camp ( 11th Armored Calvary Regiment ) to the main mortuary, Graves Registration had priority on getting choppers for flights to Tan-Son-Nhut.
Thank you, Sir, for your service. You are so appreciated. You are a hero in my eyes.
Thank you for the kind words, This old man is grateful to serving this great country.
What a KIND and honorable MAN. Thank you for your service Sir!
Thank you.
For the interview,
and... all the rest.
I dont know how you did that job...I admire your ability to do it....much respect...
Thank you Sgt. Davidson for the job you did for your Country and for telling us your story.
You're an amazing person, thanks for sharing your story. Dear God the horror of it all. I hope you are able to come to terms with it all. Thank you for one hell of a job well done.
My brother, I can see your pain. You cared for our brothers in the worst of war. I thank you for the job you did with the love and care for them. Flew a couple of KIA brothers there. God bless you and pray He gives you peace. A Cav Trooper.
Roger. Thank you. I feel ashamed that I never even thought about your job. You did good. 🇺🇸
Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man.
Two things, I appreciated the interviewer - her voice and demeanor. And, I would like to convey my utmost respect to the gentleman. You and your group epitomize the term, "Unsung Heroes".
Hello thank u for your service. Bless u
As a veteran thank you sir
As a veteran myself I want too thank you for you’re service. I was 17 when I went into the army and was out before Vietnam got going. I’m so proud of men like you who prepared the soldiers too be shipped back. I can only imagine what it was like.Take Care and God Bless You🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Elvin: Thank you for your service also. Your words are kind. The bodies were one thing but the personal effects was something that haunts me to this day, Wedding pictures, family pictures, pictures of new born babies, no end to it.
Thank you for sharing your story sir. That had to be the hardest job. Too bad there wasn’t enough time to show us the pictures he brought. I know he felt worse when he saw a ring on someone who was deceased,but I feel worse for the ones who never even got to experience love,marriage,family because they were too young and thrown into this war right out of high school.
Brian: Your feelings are spot on. At the time 55 years ago at 20 years old that was the way I was thinking. There was no communication of any kind except letters, I didn't mean to sound selfish.
Thank you, Roger. God bless you for your service and for this interview 🙏
My God Bless you Mr . Davidson. Thank you for your service.
The voices of history are so important to our wellbeing as a society. Thank you.
I can't imagine the pain and thoughts that's been carried by those who have dealt with war and its horrors ! And to those who fought in Vietnam welcome home and thank you .
Sir, you are and always will be a blessing. God bless you. Thank you for your dedication and service. Welcome home.
Mr Davidson, Thank you for your service. It is obvious you served honorably and performed a difficult job. Stay strong and always remember you were selected for a reason. I salute you Sir.
This was such an interesting and touching interview. I do not have words to express how much I love and respect our veterans. Thank you for your service. You had the toughest job there.
Thankyou for your service, God bless ya bud.
Godf bless you Roger.
Sir, you are truly a hero. My sincerest thanks for sharing your story and your important and conscientious service.
Your words are kind. I did what was asked of me to the best of my ability. Thank you for watching the video.
thank you for everything you had to go through. I have seen death up close multiple times and it is always a jarring experience, no matter how used to it one thinks they are. it's the kind of thing that sticks with you so thank you
Unbelievable commentary what that man went through I'm full of tears listening to him god bless you veterans who lived to tell the truth about the horrors of war these politician morrons who thrive on war should listen to these brave men who don't get the merit they deserve
Carlos: Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man.
You are an amazing man. Thank you so much for your service.
Thank you for your Service Sir! Welcome home! 🇺🇸🇺🇸
Sergeant Davidson, thank you for your highly honorable service to our service members, their families and our country.
Thank you, Roger.
Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man. Take care.
This is so important. So grateful for his service, for not loosing the humane and kindness needed even though almost 1,000 bodies been seen and properly taken care before coming back home. 🇺🇸🙏
Forget their faces.Forget their names. Forget the materials that touched your flesh. Just remember the package.It's a wonderful present that you gave to all those families.But don't let it bring you down.A responsible person had to do it and you are that guy! God bless.
Tom Lyons
There is no more sobering site, or experience, than making the dead Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine ready to go on their final journey HOME to their Loved ones. As a Navy Corpsman I held each life or death in highest regard, I took my oath deadly serious! DOC MIKE USN 70-74
The Navy lost a lot of Corpsman while taking care of the Wounded Marines, thank you for your post my friend.
Thank you for your service Mr. Davidson!!! I really appreciate you telling your experience which I never thought of the mortuary side of wars and working very hard so families could view their family member one last time.
I am so proud of you and the help and care and support you provided for the families of those who passed. Your job was invaluable and one of the most difficult in the military. You deserve a medal.
That which you have done for the least of these, you have done it unto me.
Wow, thank you for your story and service. I guess that is one thing the public really didn't want to think about.
Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated by this 76 year old man.
For what it's worth. I would have liked to see a picture of you in your uniform from back then. Stay strong and keep talking your story. I was a pre-teen when you were over there and I remember watching Walter Cronkite every night. I think it was on Friday's show he would announce the week's casualty count from Vietnam. Always averaged about 500 US troops and 1500 vietcong, week after week after week. Now I know how you were in the thick of it back then. God bless you Sargent Davidson. You are my hero.
Hey Roger, I want you to know that I appreciate the very difficult job you did in Viet Nam. It is one of those things I never thought about while I was there and not since. The guys we lost were flown out by chopper and We never knew about the process after that. Thank you for telling us your story. Thank you for your service.
Thank you my friend, welcome home.
Mr. Davidson my husband was a Korean war veteran he died in March 2024. I miss him because we were married 67 years. Your story was so inspiring .
You are a hero sir .. thank you for your service and God bless you and your family
Thank you for the courage and kindness to tell your story----it is very important to those of us who lost loved ones to know they were respected and honored in their final days serving.
Excellent Interview thank you Rodger for sharing your sacred memories; you are a very special person who showed compassion for the fallen. I Will remember you and your fallen colleagues at daily mass. May God bless you abundantly. Greetings from Ireland
Very special thank you sir.
God bless you, brother 🙏🏼
Your life is so much different than mine. Thank you for sharing it.