This episode is part one of two episodes that I had the great honour of recording with Roger Lockshier. His book, 'We Saved SOG Souls' is available in paperback, audiobook, and ebook formats. It is an incredible book and is an absolute must read. It is a memoir that offers insight into the highs and lows of Roger's experiences during his tour of duty fighting in the Secret War in Vietnam.
Roger Lockshier enlisted in the US Army in April 1966. After completing Airborne (Paratrooper) Jump Training at Fort Benning GA, he was assigned to Aviation Battalion 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell Kentucky, December 1966. In December of 1967 the 101st Airborne Division was transferred to Vietnam. Lockshier was a Crewchief / Doorgunner with the 101st Airborne's Black Angels Huey Helicopter Gunships assigned to provide combat support to the 101st Airborne and 5th Special Forces MACVSOG. He returned to the States in December of 1968.
Lockshier was the recipient of several awards:
• Two time recipient of The Distinguished Flying Cross
• Bronze Star
• Purple Heart
• Air Medal with "V" Device
• 19 Air Medals
• Army Commendation Medal
• Army Presidential Unit Citation 101st Airborne
• Army Presidential Unit Citation Special Forces Khe Sahn
• Army Presidential Unit Citation MACVSOG (Special Ops)
• Navy Presidential Unit Citation Khe Sahn