Left for Dead

A Second Life after Vietnam

Jon Hovde and Maureen Anderson

Media Room - Audio

Click to download RealAudio or Windows Media Player.

Cover photo: Jim Davis.

Cuts 1-4 are taken from Maureen's interviews with Jon for the book.

1. Jon arrived in Vietnam in the fall of 1967 aboard a big jet. Shortly before landing, two fighter jets appeared off each wing as escorts. (:39)

2. Jon recalls an orientation session before he was sent into the field in Vietnam. (:43)

3. Jon is comforted when told that no man will be left behind. (:36)

4. The armored personnel carrier Jon was driving struck an anti-tank mine on January 8, 1968. He lost an arm and a leg in the blast. He recounts the effect on the APC. (:28)

Cuts 5-9 are taken from one of Jon's speeches.

5. While hospitalized in Vietnam, Jon's condition was critical. Kay Layman was Jon's nurse. (1:34)

6. After being on the ice blankets for two days, Jon made a deal with God. (:52)

7. Jon's first vow, to have the fastest car in Polk County, led to three speeding tickets in quick succession. He expected to lose his driver's license but the highway patrol officer gave him a butt chewing instead. (:42)

8. Jon's second vow was to become a productive member of society. (1:04)

9. Jon has told his story to thousands of people--many of them students--and their letters reassure him he's fulfilling his third vow to make a difference. (:41)

Radio Stations: Again, we'd like to hear from you by e-mail if you use any of the audio cuts. More information about Jon is on the Author Bios page.