A helicopter leaves soldiers on the ground in Vietnam. {U.S. Army photograph.}
By David Russell
The smell of jet fuel and napalm, a steamy rotting jungle, weeping mothers mourning their children’s death.
These are a few of the subjects covered in Tom Keegan’s book on the Vietnam war “Portraits of Patriots: Vietnam Veterans’ Tales of Duty, Courage and Honor,” a series of vignettes exploring the highs and lows of life in battle.
Coral Springs resident Tom Keegan.
After narrowly being skipped by the military manpower draft lottery, something wasn’t sitting right for retiree Keegan working in civilian life. A Coral Springs resident for over 30 years, his background as an investigator and admiration for his fellow citizens compelled him to action to share untold stories from Vietnam for the world to learn and transform.
“There were two million servicemen and women who served in uniform in Vietnam. This is a chronicle of 22 of these gallant men and women. Their legacy gives me a purpose, a project, a mission, and now a pilgrimage,” said Keegan.
Each vignette explores harrowing stories of brutal heat, exhaustion, and camaraderie. Several of the veterans are from Coral Springs. Many vets could or would not participate in this project for various reasons. The painful memories were too much to resurrect.
Keegan hopes these stories share a glimpse into the soldiers’ hearts and minds to give the reader a deeper appreciation for their service and sacrifice.
A “Meet and Greet” with the author and Vietnam Memorial Wall Fundraiser is held at Sharkey’s Bar and Grill Friday, January 28, 2022, from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m.
Purchase Keegan’s book for $20 online.
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