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In a reflective letter, Pastor Cleddie Keith discusses the historical impact of the Tet Offensive in Da Nang, Vietnam, over fifty years ago. He recalls how the offensive began during what was supposed to be a cease-fire for Tết Nguyên Đán, an important Vietnamese celebration marking the arrival of spring.
Keith recounts his personal experience during this time as he awaited becoming a father while watching news reports of casualties from Vietnam. "I hate war and you can see the reasons why," he states, highlighting the significant loss of life: between 970,000 to 3 million Vietnamese soldiers and civilians, along with thousands from Cambodia, Laos, and 58,220 U.S. service members.
Keith also shares his attempt to enlist in the Army. However, an Army recruiter persuaded him that his work with youth in Houston's East End was more valuable domestically than overseas. "We need you more here than over-seas!" said the recruiter.
The story of Fang, a German Shepherd from Da Nang owned by Bob Summers' cousin who served as a nurse there, illustrates how war affects not only humans but animals too. Fang exhibited signs of PTSD after returning to the United States. His reactions to commands and fireworks showed mental scarring similar to that experienced by veterans.
Keith draws parallels between Fang's trauma and that faced by human veterans like his uncle and second cousin who served in WWII and Korea respectively. He emphasizes their sacrifices on America's Independence Day.
As a pastor serving people with traumatic memories, Keith expresses faith in healing through Jesus Christ. He concludes with a message of belief in America and divine support: "I BELIEVE IN YOU, I BELIEVE IN AMERICA."
