Danger in Unexpected Places: A Memoir of Survival
As a veteran who fought in the Vietnam War, I can attest to the constant danger that comes with combat. However, life-threatening situations often present themselves in the least expected ways, far removed from the battlefield. In this article, I share several personal anecdotes that illustrate the power of danger and survival.
Life in Dilemma: Vietnam War and Beyond
The Vietnam War taught me about the enduring threat of danger. While in combat, the most immediate and obvious danger came from the battles and encounters with the enemy. However, it is the quieter, more insidious threats – like the moment when poison gas was pumped into my house – that have stayed with me.
One fateful day, my neighbors decided to use toxic gas to invade our home. They were desperate to steal, and their willingness to kill demonstrated just how dangerous human nature can be. This experience underscored the unpredictable threats that can arise from the most unlikely circumstances.
Personal Struggles and Survival
My encounters with danger extend beyond the battlefield. In 1981, during a midnight stroll through downtown Houston, Texas, my sister and I were targeted by three muggers. We narrowly escaped with our lives, which almost proved to be worth less than the few dollars we had with us at the time. This incident taught me that even in the darkest moments, hope and survival can exist.
Unexpected Dangers and Dilemmas
Another instance of danger came from a place where I least expected it – a Heaven's Gate meeting. I disregarded a no-pictures sign and took photos as The Two (the leaders) began speaking in a zombie-like manner. The atmosphere was eerie, and I lost track of time. It took me days to regain my composure and remember what had happened. This experience highlighted the unpredictability of danger and how it can affect the most unexpected facets of everyday life.
One incident that has left a lasting impression on me occurred in Gillette, Wyoming. A police officer entered my locked cell and lay on top of me, spraying me with Mace. Throughout this ordeal, I was never informed of my Miranda rights. This lack of transparency and violation of basic rights left an indelible mark on my psyche, leading me to reflect on the erosion of individual liberties.
Survival Amidst the Oceans
On a snorkeling trip in Cancun, I found myself in a dangerous rip tide that threatened to pull me out to sea. As I struggled to find any bottom, my long-deceased father gently spoke my name, a familiar and comforting sound from my childhood. Although I encountered a hallucination in this moment, it served as a coping mechanism, a reminder of the unbreakable bond between a parent and child.
Despite the many dangers I have faced, my faith and trust in God have guided me through numerous crises. Life has presented me with harrowing circumstances, but my experiences have also taught me resilience, hope, and the importance of being vigilant in all aspects of life.