This was my Uncle Doug my father served in Vietnam, so I was very young after that conflict. My Uncle Doug never spoke about anything that happened in Vietnam I didn’t find out about any of this until much later in life. He still stays very humble about all of this, and continues not to talk about it to this day, he’s an American hero. He’s my hero and just a small part of what makes America great
I was a student NFO at RVAW-110 at NAS Miramar in Jan 1981. Did the classroom and beach SERE training at NAS North Island, then the E & E and POW camp experience at Warner Springs, approx 75 miles NE of San Diego and at 4000 ft MSL. 75* F in day, 25*F at night. Then volunteered for optional Advanced SERE at the classroom at NAS North Island. Psychological principles of Interrogation as well as Lessons Learned from Vietnam POW experience. A very quiet modest man who was there was Doug. A truly remarkable, courageous man with an extraordinarily weel-dissaplined mind. You forgot to mention that the Seaman Apprentice went on to earn a PhD in American History. He made that history!
As a retired Chief, I can assure you that you should never underestimate the ingenuity of a young Sailor. He's either going to do something brilliant or disastrous, but he will leave you wondering how he ever managed it.
I tell that to most of the people who have employed me over the years. When they ask tell me a little bit abut your self. I'll respond, well two things are going to happen. "During my tenure I will guarantee to do something that will totally impress you, to the point of making you proud to have hired me. I will also do something that will make question that choice." It usually goes over well (and it's usually true).
I met Doug while attending SERE school in San Diego. He could still recite all of the names. While all of the prisoners wanted to go home, the vast majority of them refused to accept special treatment such as early release and Doug was no exception. While true he was "ordered" to accept early release, I think they convinced him just how much good he could do for his fellow prisoners because he had memorized all their names, some of whose fates were unknown to the military and to their families. These men were fiercely loyal to our Country and to each other. They truly represented the best of America.
I also was fortunate enough to meet Doug in SERE school in '84. He still knew all the names and demonstrated the POW tap code like it was his first language. A bona fide hero if there ever was one.
@@novumfidelium5575 @John Schoneweis, I went to SERE in both 83 and 84. Lol, I "felled" out the first time. I was in the December 83 class. The night before we went into the field (after the classroom portion) I went to the bowling alley and enjoyed a little too much beer. Walking home, I tripped over a curb in a parking lot and fell into a bush. A small limb, sharp from where the bush had been recently trimmed, cut my eyelid. When I showed up the next morning, they had the doc examine me and determined that it was too risky to let me go through survival training, as it might get infected, or the camp because it might get reopened through physical contact from the guards. They held me back and had me go back through in February or March (can't remember which) 84.
I heard a story of a Vietnam War POW who was beaten and tortured until he made a tape denouncing his country. When he was tossed back into the call, he fought off the prisoners trying to help him. He said that he was a traitor and they didn't want anything to do with him. One of the old guys said, hey kid, we all made those tapes. Let us help you. McCain also spoke of a man who was beaten half to death because he was caught with a stamp sized American flag he had knitted. The morning after he was tossed back into the cell, McCain saw him in the corner knitting another American flag.
Why are my eyeballs sweating so profusely while I listen to this? What an inspirational story. We never know who is going to turn out to be amazing beyond all expectations.
Thanks Ward, As one of the last NAMPOWs shot down (27 Dec ‘72) I saw the StarsandStripes photo of Jane and the 37/57 mm in late July before going North. It was deeply moving….in an angry way. On December 30, I was paraded in front of a large audience in the Hanoi Opera House. Notably, (not to me) pacifist Joan Baez was there. She, though critical of the war, also condemned the North Vietnamese for their actions against the South. I have never considered her in the same light as Ms Fonda. Until then, I, and about eight other pows were missing -in- action. The international broadcast let our families know we were not dead. Keep up the good work. Jack R Trimble, Lt Col (Ret) USAF F-4E, Hanoi, 12/27/72-03/29/73
As a retired Senior Cheif surface sailor I want to thank you for sharing a story about the enlisted men. I truly enjoy your aviation stories, but this one was a nice change of pace and I want to thank you for it.
I especially liked this narrative, sir. I'll bet there were many hours of editing because this kind of economy of words, riveting impact and inspiration are seldom produced in a sprint. Very well done. DOUGout
Doug was a SERE School instructor when I checked into FASOTRAGRUPAC as the N3 LCPO. He retired from Government Service in iirc 2002. A truely great American.
He's a truly remarkable and intelligent sailor. He was our "political re-education officer" at SERE school back in the early 90's. Having known about him before as a teen, I was honored to be in his presence. Fair wind and following seas sir. 1/4 USMC
I was both Blessed and lucky to have been stationed in the US when the POWs were released. On a weekend having NCOD duty at the hospital, I was called and informed that one of our returning Heroes had called expressing a need. His eye was red and itchy, and he wanted an USAF ambulance to pick him up well beyond the mileage limit that we had. He also wanted an Ophthalmologist waiting for him when he arrived at the ER. This was a weekend. So what? Hell Yeah We Did It! The ophthalmologist on call had been a flight surgeon and had flown combat missions in Viet Nam. We knew that he would be on board, and he was. We also took our Hero that had a thousand yard stare and a monotone voice home via ambulance. Hey, no job too big or too small for our Heroes. Mack
And today, the legend of "The Incredibly Stupid One" is taught in SERE schools across the services. Doug Hegdahl is legendary in providing examples of passive resistance to a captive force.
I went to SERE in 1993 in Maine. I found out during the debrief back on base that the CO of SERE spent (I believe) like 8 years int he Hanoi Hilton. So when he was speaking to us in a theater like setting - we were all ears. I wish I remembered his name.
Someone on the Canberra dropped the ball. The minute he didn't show to his GQ station, someone should've reported that, charted the ship's position & done a muster & ship search. Not finding him they'd have turned back and followed parallel to their original track. In relatively calm seas, I'm sure they'd have found him. On the other hand, maybe "someone" intervened from above and put him where he could be of help to some very unfortunate prisoners. Hegdahl certainly acted as if it were the latter. What a great story, well told as usual, Ward. I wonder if PO Hegdahl still remembers all those names and details.
Great story. I've read a number of books on the SEA POW experience, and most of them mention Doug. He is the unsung hero of the whole thing, and this is a story that deserves to be told-preferably in a movie.
To say Doug is a hero is an understatement. What an incredible and inspiring story of both Doug and his cellmate Cdr. Dick Stratton. Few Americans understand the depravity and hardship our warriors suffered at the hands of the North Vietnamese. I had the good fortune to meet a former POW, Cdr. Everett Alvarez Jr., while attending Naval Postgraduate School. A fine officer and gentleman who was, to say the least, a humble hero. Thanks Mooch for yet another wonderful video.
While attending SERE school in 1998, the instructors talked at length about Doug Hegdahl. The best lesson I took from his actions and achievments was that while in captivity you should never give up, use your mind as a weapon and to continuously resist the enemy and serve your nation with honor.
Great story, thanks for sharing. As a Vietnam veteran I was terrified of being captured. Fortunately that never happened. The patriotism and iron will of those confined to the Hanoi Hilton is a sterling for all Americans. Enjoy your granddaughter!
Welcome home! Thank you! I get teared up when I come back home from a long trip of my choosing when I land back in the land of the long leaf pine. I can’t imagine how you felt after being over there and making it back home. Again, thank you.
I knew a POW, Norb Gotner, that came home on the last flight. He never appeared on any docs from the NVA, but his name was mentioned by another prisoner and our gov lobbied to get him out. He was eternally grateful for this.
Many of the POWs that wrote books mentioned this young sailor. I did not know that he had achieved "Ace" status by taking out five trucks. Incredible story.
My mom grew up in a small South Dakota town. She enlisted in the Navy early in WW2 and within a year became a Naval officer. She signed on for the DURATION of WW2!! Do not underestimate people raised in small towns. I can personally attest the people of South Dakota are fantastic.
Had the incredible honor of meeting Doug Hegdahl during my SERE experience. He recited all the names he memorized in less than 90 seconds. Old VF-96 RIO. Thanks for telling Doug’s story.
Mooch, It just goes to show you that you can NEVER judge a book, or a man,by the cover. My hat's off to Doug! I could never have done what he did. I do hope that he was rewarded by this country, AND the Navy, when he got home! May the Blessing of an all merciful God be upon him and his family. Hammer
The USS Canberra was not named for the Australian city but was named for HMAS Canberra the Australian cruiser sunk at the Battle of the Savo Sea while fighting with the US Navy.
Hey Mooch, Great Episode, I was a SERE instructor 80 to 84, worked with and talked at length with Doug and Jess ( our two civilian instructors, both former POWs) as well as our Director of Survival Training was Cdr. Ralph Gaither (a Former POW). I was attached at FASO Det Warner Springs, those of you that trained with us then... Your Welcome. It was one of the best duty stations. I instructed on the Red and Green side, also taught desert and cold weather survival classes at El Centro and Whidbey Island and participated in CSAR training at Fallon.
The Dougs of America are the secret weapon that our adversaries will never figure out. Traits and skills that are not taught but experienced from birth by our citizens. Certainly not exclusive to America, but pretty damn common here. Thank you Ward for another great story. This one reminds us that even the random average no college guy from a small town has greatness in him and given the opportunity has no trouble displaying it. We owe a lot to these every day Joes.
What a blessed and incredibly strong willed soul. Along with the potential humor value in this story is the danger he shared with the rest of the pows. If the guards had figured out he was jerking their chain, he would have been dead before the day was over. So I guess he let everyone think he was nuts.
Love your videos Ward and gotta say, as an Aussie hearing Canberra referred to as an "Australian town" gave me a chuckle... It's ALLEGEDLY our capital city 😂
Yes, and I think you would struggle to get a Baltimore class cruiser 150km inland to visit Canberra. Anyway, the recruiter signed him up, so that's all that matters. I wonder did he ever make it here? 🇦🇺
Thanks, Ward for this post. My uncle was Col. Murphey Neil Jones, Six and a half years pow in Vietnam. He showed me the same illustrated book autographed that you showed in this video. I have listened to many accounts of his captivity. Unforntanly he has passed a few years ago. I would have loved to hear his accounts of this. I am grateful you keep these memories of these heroes alive.
I went through SERE in the late 80's, and met him during the training and got to speak with him briefly back at North Island before leaving. He is a national treasure for sure.
Ward, I have been a long time fan of your channel and appreciate all that you do. I want to say from the deepest reaches of my heart, that is my favorite episode. It touched me deeply and exemplifies the determination, ingenuity, resolve, and dedication of the American Serviceman. With out the love and dedication that all our service members have we would not have the great country we have today. Thank you for your service , your work, and for sharing this story of a true American Hero.
That's why I didn't join the Navy, I had a guaranteed contract with the Army that I chose my duty station (Hawaii) and a fat bonus(pre Sept 11th) scored high enough on the ASVAB to qualify for any job I wanted, I chose to be a Cavalry Scout , part family tradition as my Uncle(paternal side) was AirCav in Nam, seems most on my maternal side went Navy and most ended up on carriers, my Grandfather was in the USS Coral Sea as a radar man, he later went on to work for GE on locomotives and Diesel Recon and had a hand in the engineering of a new fuel injector. Think that brought fame or wealth? Hell no, a busted body and pride/honor like no other. Those that serve, always serve... ⚓⚔️🛡️⚕️🗽🇺🇸
Excellent video Ward. Doug was one of our West coast SERE instructors in 1980. He ran through the memorized list of names during one of the SERE presentations. He is a humble and impressive Sailor. Thank you for refreshing this memory.
When I went through USAF Survival School back in 2000 they played "Return with Honor" during the breaks and also taught us about Doug and how he played the North Vietnamese and helped his fellow POWs. God Bless Doug Hegdahl.
I saw the film “Return with Honor” in the civilian NARU movie theater in Norfolk when it first came out. I went with two friends who had been an S-2 Tracker pilot and LSO, and a Navy Nurse who had been assigned to the returning POWs. The film was written and funded by an assortment of Hollywood types. I think Everyman hero Tom Hanks did his patriotic duty making the film possible. I had been through SERE and Advanced SERE training at NAS North Island and Warner Springs, and knew the real story of the treasonous behavior of Jane Fonda, Ramsey Clarke, and the Reverend William Sloan Coffin during their numerous visits to Hanoi during the war. After each visit, the physical and psychological torture of our POWs was intensified. The film, being made by Hollywood types, completely skips this, and deliberately covers up the despicable behavior of that Communist Hanoi Jane both when visiting NVA anti-aircraft sites and in ranting and raving against the U.S. military when on the Johnie Carson show.
Great story! I actually met Doug Hegdahl once. In 1978, I was a newly promoted LCDR 1610 Naval Cryptologist assigned to the Naval Security Group Activity Misawa Japan. I had been selected to become the new OIC of the Naval Security Group Detachment at Atsugi Japan in support of VQ-1. Since I would be flying, they sent me first to San Diego for SERE/DWEST training. During the SERE part in Warner Springs CA, the “commissar “ who interrogated us was none other than Doug Hegdahl! He contributed significantly to the SERE curriculum. An amazing person!
I have read about this sailor several times but never to the completeness as on here. Thank you for filling in so many gaps to his story. If this story isnt it should be shown to everyone no matter the branch going through boot camp! Go Navy!
Doug briefed every SERE class in Coronado before we went off to Warrnier Springs to sit in our Facilities and listen to “Boots, Boots” for hours on end during our SERE school experience. My time in the SERE barrel was August of 1985 and the techniques of bending without breaking taught by Doug served me well for that short but extremely intense training. Needless to say I made plenty of copies of my SERE training certificate, so I wouldn’t have to go through that training more than once. Doug is truly a great American that helped prepare countless Naval Aviators and Naval Flight Officers prepare for the most dreaded thing any of us could think of happening, become a POW and having to survive without betraying our country.
Yes, stories about him were a must at various SERE schools. I remember one, not related in the above video. He was asked questions about his ship and played his usual ignorant role. "How long is your ship, the Canberra?" He didn't know, but offered to pace it out in the yard where they could measure it. He paced off some arbitrary length, and the NVA interrogators carefully measured the full length he'd marked out. He started to peer over one's shoulder at what the guy was writing down in a little notebook. The interrogator frowned and quickly turned away, hiding the "classified" information he'd just obtained from the guy who'd supposedly just given it to him :-)
Outstanding Sailor! He outfoxed the North Vietnamese, disabled three trucks with some handfuls of dirt and threw their treatment of his fellow captives back in their faces in Paris. BZ Douglas Hegdahl!
I remember when I first heard about him that such an innocuous incident as going on deck actually led to lives being saved by an accident. It could have ended so much differently if he had not remembered his training or he was caught by the propeller of the ship. What a lucky man! BTW, the second time I heard about Doug was during my time at NTC Great Lakes when we did the trouser float training in 81.
Great story. I was sweating it out on the hot tarmac and sleeping in an air conditioned barracks at MCAS Yuma, Arizona while these guys were becoming REAL hero's. Semper Fi sailors.......
Thanks Ward for sharing this incredible story. I joined the Navy and trained as a Hospital Corpsman. I was transferred to the Marine Corps and proudly served in Vietnam with the 2nd BN, 11th Marines, Echo Battery.
What an amazing story. That kid showed incredible situational awareness (post getting blown overboard by the gunfire mission he apparently missed the 1MC announcements for), fortitude, and ingenuity. "I'm skipping, sir," is one of the greatest responses of all times in enlisted/officer interactions, all the more so for its total lack of smartassness (is that a word?).
A truly inspiring story! I've read many books by former POW's and the level of ingenuity used by them still amazes me. I am fortunate to not have been a POW but I was prepared by my training as an aircrew member to be able to handle anything the enemy threw at me. Those that survived the terrible torture and those that were never heard from again are always in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you sir for sharing this story! We'll never forget the sacrifices that were made!
Thanks for bringing that story to the fore front. Every Naval Aviator or Naval Flight officer (Maybe thousands?) that went through west coast SERE training encountered Doug as part of the training curriculum for over 20 years. His story remains even though he is retired. Stunning respect from all who met him! Sparky
There were also hundreds if not thousands of enlisted air crewmen who benefited from his Q and A and lecture during SERE training at FASO NASNI over the years.
I have heard this account so many times... And of all those times i heard it.. It sends goosebumps all over. This guy (Doug) is in a level above legends and heroes. He is in a League of his own.
I was in VA-97 with Mr McGrath when he was the XO and CO. He was a stickler for the regulations but also appreciated hard work and rewarded us for that. He was probably the best CO that I had. I really enjoyed the story and The Bravery of that young man
Great episode Ward!!!! The story of Doug Hegdahl is an amazing one, and it tells of the courage and determination of our men and women who fought for us, and maintained their loyalty, in the worst situations imaginable.... The method of memorizing the names of each and every one of the men there was incredible... It is so sad how they tortured the prisoners... It gets the blood boiling, and further validates the REASONS of WHY we had to be there to help the innocent citizens there, and enable them to resist the savage techniques used by the VC and NVA, against their own people.... Semper Fi...
I have seen this story told on TV several times, but this is the most interesting and from a Navy perspective, best account I have seen. The poor peasant no water buffalo bit is wonderful. Thank you.
This was my Uncle Doug my father served in Vietnam, so I was very young after that conflict. My Uncle Doug never spoke about anything that happened in Vietnam I didn’t find out about any of this until much later in life. He still stays very humble about all of this, and continues not to talk about it to this day, he’s an American hero. He’s my hero and just a small part of what makes America great
Sincere gratitude to Mr. Hegdahl
I know that I could not have done half so well.
One heck of an American Scandinavian, he is.
Thank him for me. He was my SERE school instructor.
I was a student NFO at RVAW-110 at NAS Miramar in Jan 1981. Did the classroom and beach SERE training at NAS North Island, then the E & E and POW camp experience at Warner Springs, approx 75 miles NE of San Diego and at 4000 ft MSL. 75* F in day, 25*F at night. Then volunteered for optional Advanced SERE at the classroom at NAS North Island. Psychological principles of Interrogation as well as Lessons Learned from Vietnam POW experience. A very quiet modest man who was there was Doug. A truly remarkable, courageous man with an extraordinarily weel-dissaplined mind. You forgot to mention that the Seaman Apprentice went on to earn a PhD in American History. He made that history!
As a retired Chief, I can assure you that you should never underestimate the ingenuity of a young Sailor.
He's either going to do something brilliant or disastrous, but he will leave you wondering how he ever managed it.
I tell that to most of the people who have employed me over the years. When they ask tell me a little bit abut your self. I'll respond, well two things are going to happen. "During my tenure I will guarantee to do something that will totally impress you, to the point of making you proud to have hired me. I will also do something that will make question that choice." It usually goes over well (and it's usually true).
And, as I was told in the Army: "Young soldiers will challenge you..."
Brother you are so right! The mess always had a few of these wonderful young sailors to talk about :)
@@GarrishChristopherRobin777 the napalm scene? idgi
And he will always put his finger or foot on wet paint while asking if it's wet. Myself included.
A gang USS Buffalo SSN 715
I met Doug while attending SERE school in San Diego. He could still recite all of the names. While all of the prisoners wanted to go home, the vast majority of them refused to accept special treatment such as early release and Doug was no exception. While true he was "ordered" to accept early release, I think they convinced him just how much good he could do for his fellow prisoners because he had memorized all their names, some of whose fates were unknown to the military and to their families. These men were fiercely loyal to our Country and to each other. They truly represented the best of America.
Brilliant story. And did he ever get to Australia?
I also was fortunate enough to meet Doug in SERE school in '84. He still knew all the names and demonstrated the POW tap code like it was his first language. A bona fide hero if there ever was one.
@@Shooty_McShooter SERE in '83 same in our class, amazing man.
@@novumfidelium5575 @John Schoneweis, I went to SERE in both 83 and 84. Lol, I "felled" out the first time. I was in the December 83 class. The night before we went into the field (after the classroom portion) I went to the bowling alley and enjoyed a little too much beer. Walking home, I tripped over a curb in a parking lot and fell into a bush. A small limb, sharp from where the bush had been recently trimmed, cut my eyelid. When I showed up the next morning, they had the doc examine me and determined that it was too risky to let me go through survival training, as it might get infected, or the camp because it might get reopened through physical contact from the guards. They held me back and had me go back through in February or March (can't remember which) 84.
I heard a story of a Vietnam War POW who was beaten and tortured until he made a tape denouncing his country. When he was tossed back into the call, he fought off the prisoners trying to help him. He said that he was a traitor and they didn't want anything to do with him. One of the old guys said, hey kid, we all made those tapes. Let us help you. McCain also spoke of a man who was beaten half to death because he was caught with a stamp sized American flag he had knitted. The morning after he was tossed back into the cell, McCain saw him in the corner knitting another American flag.
Ward Carroll you should do an in person interview with him.He also deserves the medal of freedom.He earned that too.
Why are my eyeballs sweating so profusely while I listen to this? What an inspirational story. We never know who is going to turn out to be amazing beyond all expectations.
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he was free and was still beating his ex captors at their own game. Brilliant. What a inspiration to us all!
Thanks Ward, As one of the last NAMPOWs shot down (27 Dec ‘72) I saw the StarsandStripes photo of Jane and the 37/57 mm in late July before going North. It was deeply moving….in an angry way. On December 30, I was paraded in front of a large audience in the Hanoi Opera House. Notably, (not to me) pacifist Joan Baez was there. She, though critical of the war, also condemned the North Vietnamese for their actions against the South. I have never considered her in the same light as Ms Fonda. Until then, I, and about eight other pows were missing -in- action. The international broadcast let our families know we were not dead.
Keep up the good work.
Jack R Trimble, Lt Col (Ret) USAF
F-4E, Hanoi, 12/27/72-03/29/73
We are indebted to you sir! What happened to your other crew member? I was in UPT when you were shot down.
As a retired Senior Cheif surface sailor I want to thank you for sharing a story about the enlisted men. I truly enjoy your aviation stories, but this one was a nice change of pace and I want to thank you for it.
Mooch,
This is one of the most inspiring stories you've ever told. BRILLIANT!
I especially liked this narrative, sir. I'll bet there were many hours of editing because this kind of economy of words, riveting impact and inspiration are seldom produced in a sprint.
Very well done.
DOUGout
Doug was a SERE School instructor when I checked into FASOTRAGRUPAC as the N3 LCPO. He retired from Government Service in iirc 2002. A truely great American.
He's a truly remarkable and intelligent sailor. He was our "political re-education officer" at SERE school back in the early 90's. Having known about him before as a teen, I was honored to be in his presence. Fair wind and following seas sir. 1/4 USMC
@@williammitchell2302 Same here. Political officer when I went through in early 97.
Same here in 83. C Co. 1st Recon Bn.
Yep, me too. I went through SERE school in May 1985 as SRO when Doug was there. I concur. He is truly a great American hero.
Thats quite the initialism
I was both Blessed and lucky to have been stationed in the US when the POWs were released. On a weekend having NCOD duty at the hospital, I was called and informed that one of our returning Heroes had called expressing a need. His eye was red and itchy, and he wanted an USAF ambulance to pick him up well beyond the mileage limit that we had. He also wanted an Ophthalmologist waiting for him when he arrived at the ER. This was a weekend. So what? Hell Yeah We Did It! The ophthalmologist on call had been a flight surgeon and had flown combat missions in Viet Nam. We knew that he would be on board, and he was. We also took our Hero that had a thousand yard stare and a monotone voice home via ambulance. Hey, no job too big or too small for our Heroes.
Mack
He talked to us during SERE school
And today, the legend of "The Incredibly Stupid One" is taught in SERE schools across the services. Doug Hegdahl is legendary in providing examples of passive resistance to a captive force.
Postwar, PO2 Hegdahl was an instructor for SERE at San Diego.
I went to SERE in 1993 in Maine. I found out during the debrief back on base that the CO of SERE spent (I believe) like 8 years int he Hanoi Hilton. So when he was speaking to us in a theater like setting - we were all ears. I wish I remembered his name.
Someone on the Canberra dropped the ball. The minute he didn't show to his GQ station, someone should've reported that, charted the ship's position & done a muster & ship search. Not finding him they'd have turned back and followed parallel to their original track. In relatively calm seas, I'm sure they'd have found him.
On the other hand, maybe "someone" intervened from above and put him where he could be of help to some very unfortunate prisoners. Hegdahl certainly acted as if it were the latter. What a great story, well told as usual, Ward.
I wonder if PO Hegdahl still remembers all those names and details.
Great story. I've read a number of books on the SEA POW experience, and most of them mention Doug. He is the unsung hero of the whole thing, and this is a story that deserves to be told-preferably in a movie.
To say Doug is a hero is an understatement. What an incredible and inspiring story of both Doug and his cellmate Cdr. Dick Stratton. Few Americans understand the depravity and hardship our warriors suffered at the hands of the North Vietnamese. I had the good fortune to meet a former POW, Cdr. Everett Alvarez Jr., while attending Naval Postgraduate School. A fine officer and gentleman who was, to say the least, a humble hero. Thanks Mooch for yet another wonderful video.
While attending SERE school in 1998, the instructors talked at length about Doug Hegdahl. The best lesson I took from his actions and achievments was that while in captivity you should never give up, use your mind as a weapon and to continuously resist the enemy and serve your nation with honor.
I'll remember that when I eventually end up in a MAGA or christian nationalist camp. Because it's coming.
@@Matt-fs1yy If you honestly believe that, then you're a neo-Marxist and you'll be lucky to see a camp.
@@zakobrien8764 proving my point exactly
Dick Stratton visited Indianapolis a few years after his repatriation and told us this story. Thanks for keeping the story "alive."
As a Veteran it’s stories like this that warms my soul especially as an elitisted man.
Great story, I needed a good laugh and that story about the trucks gave me a good one
Thanks ward this is the story of a true American hero. ⚓💪🇺🇸
Great story, thanks for sharing. As a Vietnam veteran I was terrified of being captured. Fortunately that never happened. The patriotism and iron will of those confined to the Hanoi Hilton is a sterling for all Americans. Enjoy your granddaughter!
For what it's worth Jamie welcome home 🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
That was an awesome story
Welcome home! Thank you! I get teared up when I come back home from a long trip of my choosing when I land back in the land of the long leaf pine. I can’t imagine how you felt after being over there and making it back home. Again, thank you.
Doug Hegdahl and the rest imprisoned at the Hanoi Hilton are true american heroes. I salute them all.
…Amen.”Salute!”
As he said in the video, some of them were not so honorable. But many suffered greatly for their honor.
@@martinsuper4545 Yeah. I hesitate to judge too harshly. I have no idea what I'd do under torture.
@@KutWrite no one does until you are there.
The only judges that counts are his peers, superior officers, and history.
We don't fall into any of those categories.
Amazing men, gallant warriors.
I knew a POW, Norb Gotner, that came home on the last flight. He never appeared on any docs from the NVA, but his name was mentioned by another prisoner and our gov lobbied to get him out. He was eternally grateful for this.
They should name a ship after the Vietnam POW's. I'd call it the "USS Resilience". Thanks Ward for another reminder.
Excellent ship's name suggestion!!
Many of the POWs that wrote books mentioned this young sailor. I did not know that he had achieved "Ace" status by taking out five trucks. Incredible story.
My mom grew up in a small South Dakota town. She enlisted in the Navy early in WW2 and within a year became a Naval officer. She signed on for the DURATION of WW2!! Do not underestimate people raised in small towns. I can personally attest the people of South Dakota are fantastic.
I have always heard this old saying " it's good to have friends in low places " how true.
Yup, when I went thru SERE school at NAS North Island in 1976 we were told about him. 👍 A truly great American.
Bravo Zulu. Great TINS. Bob Hipps, Major USAF (Ret) Rolling Thunder 67/68 and Linebacker 72/73.
Had the incredible honor of meeting Doug Hegdahl during my SERE experience. He recited all the names he memorized in less than 90 seconds. Old VF-96 RIO. Thanks for telling Doug’s story.
Outstanding Story!! Very well told Mooch!
Thanks, Juan!
Mooch, It just goes to show you that you can NEVER judge a book, or a man,by the cover. My hat's off to Doug! I could never have done what he did. I do hope that he was rewarded by this country, AND the Navy, when he got home! May the Blessing of an all merciful God be upon him and his family. Hammer
I stumbled over this 7 months late.. these true stories must never be forgotten, thank you for passing them on.
The USS Canberra was not named for the Australian city but was named for HMAS Canberra the Australian cruiser sunk at the Battle of the Savo Sea while fighting with the US Navy.
Hey Mooch, Great Episode, I was a SERE instructor 80 to 84, worked with and talked at length with Doug and Jess ( our two civilian instructors, both former POWs) as well as our Director of Survival Training was Cdr. Ralph Gaither (a Former POW). I was attached at FASO Det Warner Springs, those of you that trained with us then... Your Welcome. It was one of the best duty stations. I instructed on the Red and Green side, also taught desert and cold weather survival classes at El Centro and Whidbey Island and participated in CSAR training at Fallon.
I salute him and wish to thank him on line and in person. A real hero..
The Dougs of America are the secret weapon that our adversaries will never figure out. Traits and skills that are not taught but experienced from birth by our citizens. Certainly not exclusive to America, but pretty damn common here.
Thank you Ward for another great story. This one reminds us that even the random average no college guy from a small town has greatness in him and given the opportunity has no trouble displaying it. We owe a lot to these every day Joes.
I learned about Doug when I went through SERE in 2002. He's my favorite POW of all time, a true under dog and a real low key badass.
He is simply nothing less than an American hero! Admiral Stockdale said so…………that is enough for me!
Being a prior enlisted retired O-5, I appreciate this story. Thanks, Ward
Wilky
this was a wonderful Episode Commander......Bravo, Paul in Florida
Dude deserves a movie
Amazing story. Thanks.
What a blessed and incredibly strong willed soul. Along with the potential humor value in this story is the danger he shared with the rest of the pows. If the guards had figured out he was jerking their chain, he would have been dead before the day was over. So I guess he let everyone think he was nuts.
Love your videos Ward and gotta say, as an Aussie hearing Canberra referred to as an "Australian town" gave me a chuckle... It's ALLEGEDLY our capital city 😂
Yes, and I think you would struggle to get a Baltimore class cruiser 150km inland to visit Canberra. Anyway, the recruiter signed him up, so that's all that matters.
I wonder did he ever make it here? 🇦🇺
Allegedly..
I am always humbled by your stories.., stories who people can become🤯🌹🙏
Thanks, Ward for this post. My uncle was Col. Murphey Neil Jones, Six and a half years pow in Vietnam. He showed me the same illustrated book autographed that you showed in this video. I have listened to many accounts of his captivity. Unforntanly he has passed a few years ago. I would have loved to hear his accounts of this. I am grateful you keep these memories of these heroes alive.
I went through SERE in the late 80's, and met him during the training and got to speak with him briefly back at North Island before leaving. He is a national treasure for sure.
Ward, I have been a long time fan of your channel and appreciate all that you do. I want to say from the deepest reaches of my heart, that is my favorite episode. It touched me deeply and exemplifies the determination, ingenuity, resolve, and dedication of the American Serviceman. With out the love and dedication that all our service members have we would not have the great country we have today. Thank you for your service , your work, and for sharing this story of a true American Hero.
Amazing video Ward, thank you.
As a Merchant Ship's Master I have always maintained that you underestimate your crew at your peril.
One of the best told great stories of a hero by a hero. Thank you
What a hero. A true American legend. I love this man so much. Genius.
I wonder if Hegdahl ever found his recruiter after his release to tell him about his visit to Australia?
I hope he got a free flight or two there after the war for stress relief!
Leave it to a Navy Recruiter to have an answer to the "wishes" of a young potential recruit!
That's why I didn't join the Navy, I had a guaranteed contract with the Army that I chose my duty station (Hawaii) and a fat bonus(pre Sept 11th) scored high enough on the ASVAB to qualify for any job I wanted, I chose to be a Cavalry Scout , part family tradition as my Uncle(paternal side) was AirCav in Nam, seems most on my maternal side went Navy and most ended up on carriers, my Grandfather was in the USS Coral Sea as a radar man, he later went on to work for GE on locomotives and Diesel Recon and had a hand in the engineering of a new fuel injector. Think that brought fame or wealth? Hell no, a busted body and pride/honor like no other. Those that serve, always serve... ⚓⚔️🛡️⚕️🗽🇺🇸
Canberra is also landlocked and by far the worst city In Australia.
You make me laugh so hard Lmfao
Excellent video Ward. Doug was one of our West coast SERE instructors in 1980. He ran through the memorized list of names during one of the SERE presentations. He is a humble and impressive Sailor. Thank you for refreshing this memory.
PO Hegdahl is just one more reason I’m proud to have been a black shoe blue water sailor. Get some, Doug! 🤙🏼 Thanks for this episode, Commander. 😊
When I went through USAF Survival School back in 2000 they played "Return with Honor" during the breaks and also taught us about Doug and how he played the North Vietnamese and helped his fellow POWs. God Bless Doug Hegdahl.
I saw the film “Return with Honor” in the civilian NARU movie theater in Norfolk when it first came out. I went with two friends who had been an S-2 Tracker pilot and LSO, and a Navy Nurse who had been assigned to the returning POWs. The film was written and funded by an assortment of Hollywood types. I think Everyman hero Tom Hanks did his patriotic duty making the film possible. I had been through SERE and Advanced SERE training at NAS North Island and Warner Springs, and knew the real story of the treasonous behavior of Jane Fonda, Ramsey Clarke, and the Reverend William Sloan Coffin during their numerous visits to Hanoi during the war. After each visit, the physical and psychological torture of our POWs was intensified. The film, being made by Hollywood types, completely skips this, and deliberately covers up the despicable behavior of that Communist Hanoi Jane both when visiting NVA anti-aircraft sites and in ranting and raving against the U.S. military when on the Johnie Carson show.
He’s legendary in the SERE community.
What an absolute legend!!
I attended SERE at Warner Springs in '92. At the conclusion of the field exercise Doug Hegdahl spoke at length to us. Not a dry eye in the house.
Incredible story of bravery and resilience.
Great story! I actually met Doug Hegdahl once. In 1978, I was a newly promoted LCDR 1610 Naval Cryptologist assigned to the Naval Security Group Activity Misawa Japan. I had been selected to become the new OIC of the Naval Security Group Detachment at Atsugi Japan in support of VQ-1. Since I would be flying, they sent me first to San Diego for SERE/DWEST training. During the SERE part in Warner Springs CA, the “commissar “ who interrogated us was none other than Doug Hegdahl! He contributed significantly to the SERE curriculum. An amazing person!
Thank you so much for telling this story
I have read about this sailor several times but never to the completeness as on here. Thank you for filling in so many gaps to his story. If this story isnt it should be shown to everyone no matter the branch going through boot camp! Go Navy!
I couldn't agree more!
What a story. And what a memory!
Doug briefed every SERE class in Coronado before we went off to Warrnier Springs to sit in our Facilities and listen to “Boots, Boots” for hours on end during our SERE school experience. My time in the SERE barrel was August of 1985 and the techniques of bending without breaking taught by Doug served me well for that short but extremely intense training. Needless to say I made plenty of copies of my SERE training certificate, so I wouldn’t have to go through that training more than once. Doug is truly a great American that helped prepare countless Naval Aviators and Naval Flight Officers prepare for the most dreaded thing any of us could think of happening, become a POW and having to survive without betraying our country.
Ah, yes…… Boots, boots, boots marching up and down again. Just so you wouldn’t fall asleep in that freezing cold stone box you were cramped into.
Yes, stories about him were a must at various SERE schools. I remember one, not related in the above video. He was asked questions about his ship and played his usual ignorant role. "How long is your ship, the Canberra?" He didn't know, but offered to pace it out in the yard where they could measure it. He paced off some arbitrary length, and the NVA interrogators carefully measured the full length he'd marked out. He started to peer over one's shoulder at what the guy was writing down in a little notebook. The interrogator frowned and quickly turned away, hiding the "classified" information he'd just obtained from the guy who'd supposedly just given it to him :-)
Outstanding Sailor! He outfoxed the North Vietnamese, disabled three trucks with some handfuls of dirt and threw their treatment of his fellow captives back in their faces in Paris. BZ Douglas Hegdahl!
A moving story. Thanks for sharing.
I remember when I first heard about him that such an innocuous incident as going on deck actually led to lives being saved by an accident. It could have ended so much differently if he had not remembered his training or he was caught by the propeller of the ship. What a lucky man!
BTW, the second time I heard about Doug was during my time at NTC Great Lakes when we did the trouser float training in 81.
This story should be made into a movie! Thanks Ward, one of your best.
Doug was legend when I went to SERE. A great American.
Great story. I was sweating it out on the hot tarmac and sleeping in an air conditioned barracks at MCAS Yuma, Arizona while these guys were becoming REAL hero's. Semper Fi sailors.......
An awesome display of hutzpah! Quick thinking under pressure. Good man.
Fantastic story! Won’t deny I had a lump in my throat at the end of this one
Friggin genius. Played the role perfectly....what a man !
Thanks Ward for sharing this incredible story. I joined the Navy and trained as a Hospital Corpsman. I was transferred to the Marine Corps and proudly served in Vietnam with the 2nd BN, 11th Marines, Echo Battery.
What an amazing story. That kid showed incredible situational awareness (post getting blown overboard by the gunfire mission he apparently missed the 1MC announcements for), fortitude, and ingenuity. "I'm skipping, sir," is one of the greatest responses of all times in enlisted/officer interactions, all the more so for its total lack of smartassness (is that a word?).
The technical term, I believe, is "smartassery".
😃
@@TheLoneHaranger 🤣
Wow Ward!! What an inspiring saga!! Incredibly heartwarming. Don’t know why but I’m crying as I write this…. Thank You. Thank Doug!!!
A truly inspiring story! I've read many books by former POW's and the level of ingenuity used by them still amazes me. I am fortunate to not have been a POW but I was prepared by my training as an aircrew member to be able to handle anything the enemy threw at me. Those that survived the terrible torture and those that were never heard from again are always in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you sir for sharing this story! We'll never forget the sacrifices that were made!
BZ Professor Mooch. A great story with a happy ending. Thanks!
This is one of the most fascinating stories about one of the most fascinating people I've ever heard. I hope this kid got a medal.
I chuckled through the entire episode. Irony at every turn. An outstanding piece.
I love this story.
Thanks for bringing that story to the fore front. Every Naval Aviator or Naval Flight officer (Maybe thousands?) that went through west coast SERE training encountered Doug as part of the training curriculum for over 20 years. His story remains even though he is retired. Stunning respect from all who met him! Sparky
There were also hundreds if not thousands of enlisted air crewmen who benefited from his Q and A and lecture during SERE training at FASO NASNI over the years.
I have heard this account so many times... And of all those times i heard it.. It sends goosebumps all over. This guy (Doug) is in a level above legends and heroes. He is in a League of his own.
That was beautiful, Ward.
I was in VA-97 with Mr McGrath when he was the XO and CO. He was a stickler for the regulations but also appreciated hard work and rewarded us for that. He was probably the best CO that I had. I really enjoyed the story and The Bravery of that young man
Great story. It's great how he played the enemy again and again with his cover.
Thanks Mooch. Great story well presented.
That was hilarious and impressive. He set their bar low and got away with being very clever indeed
Another excellent story! I’ve been the incredibly stupid one for 57 years but I never thought of turning the tables like this hero!
Outstanding story
Great episode Ward!!!! The story of Doug Hegdahl is an amazing one, and it tells of the courage and determination of our men and women who fought for us, and maintained their loyalty, in the worst situations imaginable.... The method of memorizing the names of each and every one of the men there was incredible... It is so sad how they tortured the prisoners... It gets the blood boiling, and further validates the REASONS of WHY we had to be there to help the innocent citizens there, and enable them to resist the savage techniques used by the VC and NVA, against their own people.... Semper Fi...
I have seen this story told on TV several times, but this is the most interesting and from a Navy perspective, best account I have seen. The poor peasant no water buffalo bit is wonderful. Thank you.
True American Heroes! They make me proud and thankful to be an American! 🇺🇸
Bravo more stories!!
The are the stories that would be lost to history if not for people like yourself keeping them alive. Thank you, Mr. Carroll.
What a good story award. Thanks.
Incredible story of courage
Incredible story. Thanks, Ward. Hope you're doing ok