Crowder Hollis - Vietnam Veteran Interview

Vietnam Veteran, Hollis Crowder, was interviewed on September 10, 2022, in Columbus, Georgia. SSGT Crowder served with the Golden Brigade of the 82nd Airborne, 1-508 PIR, E Company, Recon Red Devils during the Vietnam War. SSGT Crowder worked dangerous missions behind enemy lines as a recon member of a Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol (LRRP) in various roles, including Point, Squad Leader, Radioman, and Platoon Sergeant with Command Team. SSGT Crowder saw action in Cui Chi, Mekong Delta, Rubber Plantations, Plieku, Laos, and Cambodia, where he received the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Second Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Clusters, Combat Infantry Badge, Purple Heart, and his Airborne Wings. @MakingHistoryProject

Summary:

Hollis Crowder, born on May 27, 1947, in Memphis, Tennessee, grew up in a close-knit family with two brothers, parents from Mississippi, and a father who worked for the UAW at the Firestone Tire Factory. He had a positive childhood, played football in high school, and was active in the National Defense Cadet Corps.

Crowder was drafted into the military in January 1968 after dropping out of college to spend time with his terminally ill father, leading to a change in his draft status. He served in the Army, specifically in the 82nd Airborne Division, and volunteered for the draft, ultimately serving almost seven years, including time in Vietnam as part of a long-range reconnaissance patrol team.

During his service, Crowder was involved in highly dangerous missions, including reconnaissance and calling in airstrikes, often operating in small teams that required stealth, quick responses, and a high degree of self-sufficiency. He was trained in various weapons and received specialized training for his role in reconnaissance.

Crowder's military experience was marked by the camaraderie and bond formed with fellow soldiers, overcoming the racial segregation he grew up with in the South. He was awarded several medals, including the Purple Heart, after being wounded in action. His time in Vietnam profoundly affected him, leading to a period of adjustment upon returning home, where he felt disconnected from civilian life and remained vigilant and cautious.

After retiring from the military in 2002, Crowder engaged in community service, including mission trips to Africa with Project Africa and involvement with FEMA, reflecting his ongoing commitment to service and helping others. He emphasizes the importance of serving one's country and the value of understanding the history and sacrifices of those who have served before.

Видео Crowder Hollis - Vietnam Veteran Interview канала Making History Project