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The Good Experiences Were Somewhat Limited

Lou Ellingson stayed busy during his time in Vietnam, and accordingly doesn't recall too many good experiences. Coming home wasn't a great experience either--he felt shunned by his community, including by veterans of preceding wars.

If we did come in and have some time off, it was a case of maybe writing a few letters. You knew if you didn't write any letters you wouldn't get any letters.

A young man in green navy fatigues smiling toward the camera.

Image courtesy of the Eden Prairie Vietnam Memorial.

Biographical Details

Story Subject: Military Service

Military Branch: U.S. Navy

Specialty: Swift Boat Captain

Lou's story was captured with the help of TPT's Minnesota Remembers Vietnam team.

Story Themes: Coming Home, Correspondence, Eden Prairie, Family, Humanities Screening, Lou Ellingson, Navy, Shortimer Calendar, Swift Boat, Watch

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