Oral history of John Allen
Clemson University Libraries. Special Collections and Archives A video recording of an in-person interview conducted by Anna Hickey with Brigadier General John Allen on November 9, 2012, in Seneca, SC. Born on October 17, 1935, John Allen served in the United States Air Force, flying strategic bomber missions during the Cold War and Vietnam War. He talks about his extensive flight training and career progression, which led to his role as a bomber pilot.
Brigadier General Allen reflects on his time standing alert in bombers on nuclear missions, three tours in Vietnam, and flying bombing missions, including Operation Linebacker I and II. Beyond combat, he discusses his later role in military planning and logistics at the Pentagon, his post-retirement transition to Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) consulting and serving as a prominent advocate for military funding.
Oral history of Danny Rhodes
Clemson University Libraries. Special Collections and Archives A video recording of an in-person interview conducted by Schuyler Easterling with Colonel Danny Rhodes on December 7, 2012. Rhodes attended Clemson University, where he joined ROTC and became actively involved in the Pershing Rifles, which deepened his interest in military service. After graduating in 1968, he was commissioned in the United States Army Transportation Corps and entered active duty.
Following training at Fort Knox and Airborne School, Rhodes served in the 82nd Airborne Division for a year before his deployment to Vietnam in 1971. He was assigned to the 178th Assault Support Helicopter Company as a maintenance officer. He managed the upkeep of CH-47 Chinook Helicopters, ensuring their readiness for missions. He recalls the frustration of undisciplined leadership among officers and non-commissioned officers and the logistical challenges of keeping aircraft operational in Vietnam's harsh climate. After returning from Vietnam, Rhodes remained in aviation logistics and, in 1983, transferred to the Army's Aviation branch. His later assignments included Cold War-era Germany, where he supported United States Military operations along the East-West German border, and leadership positions at Fort Bragg, MacDill Air Force Base, and Fort Gillem.
2012-12-07
Oral history of Raymond Zieverink
Clemson University Libraries. Special Collections and Archives A video recording of an in-person interview conducted by John Richter with Sonar Technician Second Class Raymond Zieverink on March 19, 2014. Born on November 16, 1946, Zieverink volunteered for the United States Navy to avoid being drafted into the Army for Vietnam.
After completing basic training, he volunteered for submarine duty and underwent submarine school. In 1967, he was assigned to the USS Lapon, a fast attack nuclear submarine. As sonar technician, he played a key role in tracking underwater activity, listening for enemy submarines, surface ships, and potential threats. He recalls long patrols, including operations above the Arctic Circle and Cold War surveillance missions. He also talks about how life aboard a submarine was both demanding and close-knit, with 18 hour workdays and limited space.
2014-03-19
Oral history of Frank Surratt
Clemson University Libraries. Special Collections and Archives A video recording of an in-person interview conducted by John Richter with Staff Sergeant Frank Surratt on March 23, 2014. Born on January 30, 1937, Surratt enlisted in the United States Army Reserves in 1961 to avoid the draft.
Surratt was assigned to the 108th Training Division in Concord, NC. He specialized in infantry and office management. During the Cuban Missile Crisis, his unit was placed on high alert, preparing for a potential invasion of Cuba. He trained Cuban recruits in battlefield first aid, managing large groups and conducting life-saving medical drills under military supervision.
2014-03-23