The Helicopter War in Vietnam
- Jessica Lee
- 7 days ago
- 1 min read
On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, we had the honor of welcoming Lt. Colonel (Ret.) W. Larry Dandridge, Vietnam War veteran and author, who shared powerful frontline experiences and stories that stayed with all of us.
Larry’s message connected deeply with Rotary’s core values. His reflections on service, integrity, leadership, and teamwork reminded us that real leadership is earned through technical proficiency, leading by example, and building trust with the people you serve alongside. He spoke about the courage required to do hard things, the responsibility leaders carry, and the lasting impact of shared mission and sacrifice.
His book, Blades of Thunder (Book One), is a nonfiction autobiography and Vietnam War history that follows six young Army aviators, flight school classmates, who went to Vietnam in the fall of 1968 and were forever changed. Some died, some were wounded, and those who returned carried scars that do not simply fade. Through his story, you witness the realities of assault helicopter, medical evacuation, and air cavalry troop pilots, and the kind of leadership that brings a team through the unthinkable.
Thank you, Lt. Colonel Dandridge, for your service, your candor, and for reminding us what it means to lead with purpose and serve with heart.
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