Most war stories don’t end with medal, glory

Since hometowner Salvatore Giunta became a Medal of Honor recipient, the community has rallied around him. This is as it should be. He is a hero by any definition, from courage under Taliban fire, to humility under media lights. We are proud of his accomplishments and grateful for his safe return.

However, we should not forget that many war stories don't have such glowing endings. Retired Gazetter reporter Dale Kueter wrote a book several years ago called “Vietnam Sons: For Some the War Never Ended.” The subtitle drives home a critical point.

The narrative revolves around two young men. Like Giunta, they were local boys. Chuck Gradoville grew up in Cedar Rapids and graduated from Regis High School. Ken Churchill was a product of Marion and Marion High School. They met in Vietnam. Chuck was killed there. While not directly responsible, Ken feels his decisions contributed to Chuck's death. He lives with that guilt to this day, a physical and emotional casualty of war.

The story is a stark reminder that the end result of war is not always medals and brass bands. It's a great topical read at this point in time.

Americans must remember that we sometimes have to fight for certain principles or objectives, but the cost can be high. We should always seek that balance point between the two.

Dean Varner

Cedar Rapids