LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE AND THE VIETNAM WAR

Abstract

This thesis is an oral history of ROTC graduates from MTSU who where commissioned and served during the Vietnam War. The researched stories of these Veterans will be used to further the development of ROTC Cadets in leadership and professionalism. Specifically, this thesis investigates the command positions held by commissioned officers to correlate their direct relationship of service in the Vietnam War and the lessons taught during their time in ROTC. This University will have the unique privilege of seeing the role it has played in the history of an American war and understand the sacrifices its alumni have made. The stories shared present an opportunity to hear the untold experiences of war and how ROTC has shaped their values and beliefs. It is important to know the life experiences of officers during that time, but it is just as significant to understand the struggles they currently face as a veteran. This thesis delves into the history and current condition of MTSU veterans in relation to the Vietnam War.