We Were There

Most of the nurses serving during the Vietnam War were dedicated young women who treated combat injuries and consoled the wounded, often under extremely challenging conditions. Upon returning home, many faced hostile treatment or had their service denied by civilians and veterans alike. Stacy Pearsall talks with three nurses who served in Vietnam. Air Force Flight Nurse Jean Berkheiser provided in-flight medical aid to combat and noncombat casualties. Edie Meeks served in the Intensive Care Units of the 3rd Field Hospital and the 71st Evac Hospital in Pleiku. Air Force veteran Linda Pugsley served with the 34th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, assisting in the evacuation of wounded personnel from Vietnam.