WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS, BOOK A
FLIGHT: The fear was evident in their eyes
as they kneeled before their captors. Two Viet Cong prisoners were
captured during the night ambush, they were being interrogated by our
intelligence. The VC looked pitiful as their eyes scurried back and
forth from man to man. I took no pity on them, we had lost
good men the day before. As they were kneeling they had a look of
defiance in their eyes, they would not talk or respond to our
translator. Question after question and no response, time was drawing
short and patience was running out for these captives. The evening before we had taken
heavy fire and a number of Marines were killed. These two Cong were more
than likely part of the attack. While on a sweep we had come across our
own, tied to a tree, the skin was peeled from their bodies. One had his
privates cut off and stuck in his mouth, this enemy had no mercy or
morality. This enemy deserved to die, justice must be served. I could
have no mercy upon these savage killers. To kill is one thing in war, to
butcher is another. No man deserves to die the way my brothers did in
the jungle that day. The cruelty dealt out by the Viet Cong is beyond
description, their minds are as slanted as their eyes... I will never
forgive, I will never forget this enemy. The interrogation was going nowhere.
The Chopper was coming in to pick up the two VC prisoners. During this
ride one of these two will talk, and gladly. They loaded them onto the chopper
and soon lifted off. While inside they would continueto be questioned.
Together they may have pride, alone they are free from their arrogant
manner. The chopper circles the area, climbing higher and higher till it
can barely be heard. During this time the interrogation continues. The
Radioman receives the message, “That's a negative on the enemy co-op
do you copy, over?” “Affirmative Captain, stand by.” We all stand gazing up at the
chopper. Seconds later a black speck is seen ejecting from the hatch.
Arms are flailing as the enemy freefalls towards the ground. Given the
chance I presume the Vietcong rebel would talk now. Minutes later the
Chopper lands. The silent one decided to co-operate with intelligence.
Much will be learned and much will be gained from the information we
received. War is hell and some have to step into the mouth of hell from
a little higher plane than others. It is an unfortunate reality. These
truths did not make the headlines back in the World. Nevertheless the
war continues to be fought with silent truths. May God have mercy on our souls. |