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Cavalry Chaplain: A Memoir of Vietnam

Edison Mitchell

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Published in It Took Heroes: A Cavalry Chaplain S Memoir Of Vietnam

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The Vietnam War was a complex and controversial conflict that left a lasting impact on the United States. For those who served in the war, the experience was often life-changing. For many, the war was a time of great suffering and loss. But for others, it was also a time of growth and spiritual awakening.

One such person was John Laurence, a young Catholic priest who served as a cavalry chaplain in Vietnam. Laurence's memoir, "Cavalry Chaplain: A Memoir of Vietnam," is a powerful and moving account of his experiences during the war.

Early Life and Call to Ministry

John Laurence was born in New York City in 1941. He was the son of Irish immigrants, and he grew up in a devout Catholic family. Laurence attended Catholic schools, and he felt a call to the priesthood at a young age.

It Took Heroes: A Cavalry Chaplain's Memoir of Vietnam

by Bil Johnson

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5053 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	568 pages

After graduating from high school, Laurence entered the seminary. He was ordained a priest in 1966, and he was soon assigned to a parish in New Jersey. Laurence enjoyed working as a parish priest, but he felt a growing desire to serve in the military.

In 1968, Laurence volunteered to serve as a chaplain in Vietnam. He was assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division, and he quickly became known for his courage and compassion. Laurence ministered to the troops in a variety of ways, including leading Mass, hearing confessions, and providing counseling.

The War in Vietnam

The Vietnam War was a brutal and bloody conflict. The United States was fighting against the communist government of North Vietnam, and the war quickly became a quagmire. The war was unpopular at home, and many Americans protested against it.

The troops in Vietnam were often exposed to extreme violence and danger. They saw their friends and comrades killed or wounded. They were also often forced to make difficult moral decisions. Laurence's memoir provides a firsthand account of the war's horrors. He describes the violence, the suffering, and the moral dilemmas that the troops faced.

Spiritual Awakening

Despite the horrors of war, Laurence also found moments of grace and spiritual awakening in Vietnam. He witnessed the courage and compassion of the troops, and he was inspired by their faith. Laurence's memoir is filled with stories of hope, redemption, and forgiveness.

Laurence also found solace in his own faith. He prayed regularly, and he drew strength from the sacraments. Laurence's memoir is a powerful testimony to the power of faith in the face of adversity.

Return Home

Laurence returned to the United States in 1970. He was a changed man. The war had taken a toll on him, but it had also deepened his faith and his commitment to serving others. Laurence continued to work as a priest, and he eventually became a bishop.

Laurence's memoir is a valuable contribution to the literature on the Vietnam War. It is a powerful and moving account of the war's horrors and the spiritual awakening that can be found even in the darkest of times.

John Laurence's memoir, "Cavalry Chaplain: A Memoir of Vietnam," is a must-read for anyone interested in the Vietnam War or in the power of faith. Laurence's story is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and find hope even in the darkest of times.

It Took Heroes: A Cavalry Chaplain's Memoir of Vietnam

by Bil Johnson

4.2 out of 5