Veterans Day, November 11th, 2025

Larry R. Rankin, U.S Army - Specialist E-5 . Vietnam - served during Tet Offensive: May 27th, 1968 - May 24th, 1969. We supported Special Forces operations.

Sculpting has been an important part of an all-consuming emotional process - it helped me understand what Vietnam's painful experiences have put me through for over 55 years. My post-war emotional detachment was channeled into my art. Our U.S. Army Battalion was hit with mortars or rockets 70% of the time during my deployment. I became adroit at distinguishing by sound if mortars were incoming or outgoing. One night I was blown out of bed into a blinding light and choking cloud of dust when the 9th infantry ammo dump was hit by a rocket. To this day I wake on full alert at the slightest sliver of light or the slightest night noise. When I hear a Huey helicopter it brings back many memories.

In spite of the aftermath, I am honored to have served my country. As we celebrate Veterans Day this November, remember that for many veterans, the scars are not visible. And remember that the small percentage of Americans who did serve in the nation's uniform deserve our deep admiration. Tell a veteran thank you on Veteran's Day, thank you.

Sincerely,
Larry R. Rankin, Sculptor