The Vietnam War was not something that any of us ever wanted to deal with. Still, when drafted, men from all across the nation stepped up to do their patriotic duty. The bond forged by war buddies is like no other. More potent than glue and longer-lasting than any other type of relationship.

Throughout their time in Vietnam, veterans have some stories to tell. Some good, some bad, and others simply need closure. Being a war veteran is not easy, especially when stationed in an area that regularly sees intense gunfire.

Dale Edge was one of those veterans who had a good life before being drafted. He was a farmer who had stepped up to the call when he was drafted, and while in combat, he made some good friends.

Fred Kjorlien was one of those comrades he now calls a friend and a brother. However, during the heat of the battle, they did not know each other very well. They knew that they were in the same platoon and that when in gunfights, they would have to rely on each other to survive.

During one of those particular firefights, an RPG struck a tree close enough to Fred that he lost his leg. Dale took quick action. Without even thinking, he went to Fred’s side and did his best to stop the bleeding before the medic-vac showed up.

Dale wondered if the man he had aided survived his wounds throughout the past 50 years. With the advent of the internet and smartphones, he could follow up with his desire to reach out to the man he had once saved in Vietnam. And that desire paid off as he was able to reach Fred.

Vietnam Vets are a breed apart from any other. Our nation’s veterans from Vietnam have gone through some dramatic experiences. Heart-lifting stories like this are a tribute to a generation of great warriors who became, indeed, a band of brothers.