Everything Changed: The VietNam War and American Culture: Lessons Not Learned - Paperback

by Heyward Hunter MacDonald (Author)

The unique perspective of this book--Dr. Macdonald is a VietNam War veteran, Episcopal priest, and scholar--makes it at once insightful and provocative. Apart from the wide reading and impressive learning of the author, the book seeks to avoid glib assertions and simplistic answers to one of America's wars that still defies a superficial summary. Dr. Macdonald can acknowledge the folly of some of America's policymakers and politicians without impugning the staggering heroism and sacrifices of so many American troops who served and fought in VietNam. He knows. He was there. This book adds a needed, and valuable, perspective.

Author Biography

Heyward H. Macdonald was commissioned a Lieutenant, United States Army, upon graduation from U.Va in 1964 and served as an Army Ordinance Officer in Vietnam at PhuLoi, VietNam, in 1966 and 1967. He has two Master's Degrees and became a student of the psychology and spirituality of Vietnam Veterans while earning a doctorate at Virginia Theological Seminary. Dr. Macdonald has worked through the VA to help some veterans of this war come to terms with their issues resulting from their VietNam service. He was an Episcopal Priest and Educator in Virginia and Maryland for 32 years, and with his older son returned to Vietnam for a month in 1999 to travel throughout the country. He reports that he was stunned to find he was welcomed by old adversaries literally with open arms. Dr. Macdonald served the Osher Institute at the University of Virginia for seven years on the board of directors and continues as an instructor and lecturer. He also enjoys teaching as a substitute at the Miller School of Albemarle and lives near Charlottesville with his wife, Sandy.