Arthur Wiknik Jr. joins us to talk about his Vietnam tour as captured in his masterful book, Nam Sense: Surviving Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division.

Nam Sense provides a gripping and personal account of his experiences during the Vietnam War as a member of the 101st Airborne Division. With vivid detail, Wiknik shares the challenges, horrors, and moments of camaraderie that defined his tour of duty, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the life of a soldier in one of the most tumultuous periods in American history.

The narrative unfolds with Wiknik’s arrival in Vietnam in 1969, a time when the conflict was escalating. As a member of the 101st Airborne Division, known for its mobility and readiness for rapid deployment, Wiknik found himself in the thick of the war. The author takes readers through the day-to-day life of a soldier in the jungle, detailing the physical and mental toll of navigating the harsh terrain, dealing with the ever-present threat of enemy ambushes, and grappling with the intense emotional strain of combat.

As the 101st Airborne Division engaged in fierce battles, the author provides a firsthand perspective on the brutality of war, the loss of comrades, and the overwhelming sense of fear that permeated the jungles of Vietnam.

One of the notable aspects of “Nam Sense” is Wiknik’s honest portrayal of the psychological impact of war on soldiers. He delves into the coping mechanisms developed by soldiers to navigate the constant stress and the coping mechanisms developed by soldiers to navigate the constant stress and uncertainty, shedding light on the complexities of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The author recounts his own struggles with reconciling the wartime experiences with civilian life upon returning home, offering a poignant reflection on the lasting effects of war on the human psyche.

Throughout the narrative, Wiknik highlights the camaraderie among soldiers, emphasizing the bonds forged under the most challenging circumstances. He shares anecdotes of humor and resilience, illustrating how soldiers managed to find moments of levity amid the grim realities of war. These stories serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who served and the unique brotherhood that developed among them.

The book also touches on the controversial aspects of the Vietnam War, including the sentiments of the soldiers toward the anti-war movement back home and the challenges faced by returning veterans in adjusting to a society divided over the conflict. Wiknik provides insights into the complexities of being a soldier in a war that was becoming increasingly unpopular, shedding light on the internal conflicts faced by those who served.

The book is rich in detail, transporting readers to the humid jungles of Vietnam and immersing them in the harrowing experiences of war. The inclusion of personal photographs further enhances the authenticity of the account, allowing readers to connect with the individuals and events described in the book.