1500 feet over Vietnam

One of our latest programs focuses on an American Marine Helicopter pilot who earned 42 medals and a Silver Star for his heroism in Vietnam.

Yet, in many ways, returning home was as stressful to him as flying combat missions.

Bruce Lake’s book, 1500 Feet over Vietnam is based on letters to his wife describing his missions and what everyday life was like over and on the battlefield during those years of his life when most of his peers were away from home for the first time…..in college.

Riveting…..was the word that comes to mind when describing Lake’s conversation on this edition of Out of the Past.

See the show HERE

A REVIEW BY ROD CARLSON

“In discussing his book and and the experiences that earned 42 air medals and a Silver Star, Bruce Lake paints a vivid picture of his combat tour in Vietnam as a young Marine helicopter pilot. Arising from all that was the tragedy of Vietnam, there was another phenomenon, one that’s rarely discussed … intense job satisfaction.

With amazing perspective and insight, Lake candidly recounts the pain of losing close friends while at the same time experiencing the unforgettable personal rewards of combat flying, working in close partnership with the Grunts and frequently braving enemy fire to keep them alive.

Lake provides a profound insight into the heart and soul of a modern warrior. And, he helps us understand why memories of the Vietnam War don’t fade but grow more powerful and vivid with each passing year.

Vietnam will never be a “feel good” subject, but Lake at least shows us that there was a lot of good mixed in with the bad.”

(Carlson served in HMM-265 with Bruce Lake and flew several missions together and says that he’s always been an admirer of Lake’s talent and character. After the Marines and Vietnam, Carlson received an MBA from the University of Virginia and spent thirty plus years in advertising, marketing and consulting. He retired in 2002 and has spent the past few years writing, helping veterans, and serving on the White Plains, NY Conservation Board.)