Why I Fought: Randy Pennington

Published on October 6, 2015
Duration: 7:02

Randy Pennington, a Vietnam veteran, recounts his combat experience, including being wounded by a mine during a road clearing operation near Saigon. He details the tactical situation, the types of enemy weapons encountered (SKS or Mosin-Nagant with a cleaning rod visible), and the immediate aftermath of his injury. Pennington also discusses his transition back to civilian life and his subsequent career in the automotive industry, leading to the co-founding of Mile High Shooting Accessories, which supports military and law enforcement personnel.

Quick Summary

Vietnam veteran Randy Pennington was injured by a mine during a road clearing operation near Saigon. He recounts the immediate aftermath, including critical self-aid for a femoral artery wound. Pennington later co-founded Mile High Shooting Accessories, which provides support and discounts to military and law enforcement personnel.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Wounded in Vietnam
  2. 00:32Early Military Aspirations
  3. 01:05Enlistment and Service
  4. 01:23Germany and Third Armored Division
  5. 01:28Deployment to Vietnam
  6. 01:45Wounded in Action
  7. 01:50Road Clearing Operation
  8. 02:15Tunnel Clearing and Demo
  9. 02:24Bunker Assault
  10. 02:38Mine Explosion
  11. 03:05Assessing the Injury
  12. 03:11Immediate First Aid
  13. 03:23Squad Status and Enemy Engagement
  14. 03:38Enemy Fire Analysis
  15. 04:03Return to the States
  16. 04:12Post-War Transition
  17. 04:34Career Path and Business
  18. 05:11Founding Mile High
  19. 05:41Supporting Military and LE
  20. 06:03Advice for Aspiring Soldiers

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of operations did Randy Pennington participate in during the Vietnam War?

Randy Pennington participated in road clearing operations, which involved securing routes for supply transport. He also engaged in clearing tunnels, demolition tasks, and assaulting enemy bunkers as part of a reconnaissance platoon.

How was Randy Pennington injured in Vietnam?

Randy Pennington was injured by a mine explosion during a road clearing operation near Fuk Fin, approximately 50 kilometers from Saigon. The blast threw him into the air and resulted in the loss of his leg.

What firearms were observed or encountered by Randy Pennington in Vietnam?

Pennington noted enemy soldiers using SKS or Mosin-Nagant rifles, identifiable by a cleaning rod below the barrel. He also mentioned using a .45 caliber pistol for close-quarters engagements.

What is Mile High Shooting Accessories and its connection to veterans?

Mile High Shooting Accessories, co-founded by Randy Pennington, is a company that strongly supports military and law enforcement. They offer discounts to these groups and actively support military shooters and matches.

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