Great piece! If you are not familiar with it, Leigh Hunt's poem ABOU BEN ADHEM seems to me to describe your brave, wonderful dad perfectly.

Thank you so much for introducing me to this poem! Yes, that describes my dad.

This is remarkable. I love how you write and I love what he has offered. Blessings of hope to you all.

I’ve been fascinated by your father’s willingness to attend John Paul Vann’s funeral. Reading that account led me to read his memoir, and seeking more understanding of the untenable position he was put in at that time.

John Vann was one of his best friends, almost a brother. When I asked him why he loved “Butch Cassidy…” so much he said it reminded him of his time with Vann in Vietnam.

This still doesn't makes things clear. Was he raised Jewish?

No