Local sailors are commemorating those who lost their lives during one of the deadliest battles of the Vietnam War. More than 100 Americans lost their lives in operation of Hue City. Many survivors gathered at Naval Station Mayport to honor their sacrifice.
Nightmarish is the way marine veteran Anthony Cartlidge describes the battle of Hue City.
“Watching your guys go down, get shot, extreme heavy fire wherever you went. Having to take positions and cross bridges under direct fire from the enemy,” Cartlidge said.
Cartlidge and his fellow survivors are remembering the 142 comrades who lost their lives during one of the bloodiest battles of the Vietnam war.
“You’re always trying to take care of the guy on either side of you to make sure they stay alive cause they’re doing the same thing. They’re trying to make sure that you stay alive," Cartlidge said.
Sailors of the USS Hues City, a Mayport based guided missile cruiser, are honoring the veterans who fought at Hue City on the 50th anniversary.
The victory wasn't celebrated by those in the United States. Cartlidge says its a relief that opinion of Vietnam War veterans has shifted.
“It gives you a good feeling because somebody realizes what you did,” Cartlidge said.
The former marine said he and his fellow veterans vow to prevent the shaming of current military members for their service.