More than 50 years after the Vietnam War, Matthew Keenan is back in the country where he once fought. For him, the war never really ended. Back home, a diagnosis of cancer tied to exposure to Agent Orange has kept the conflict alive.
Haunted by grief and guilt, Keenan decided it was time to face his past. Walking through rice paddies and visiting former battlefields, he met residents who still live with the legacy of the conflict. Their stories of loss and resilience echoed his own struggle.
In small villages and city clinics, he joined survivors on both sides sharing memories and hopes for the future. These encounters opened a path toward reconciliation at a personal level, as he worked with local volunteers to support families affected by chemical exposure.
Today, Keenan's journey shines a light on the long-term health challenges left by the war. His story resonates with young global citizens, entrepreneurs and activists eager to learn how communities can heal from trauma.
By confronting his own history, Keenan shows that redemption is possible even decades after a war ends. His mission is a reminder that peace often begins with honest conversations and shared humanity.
Reference(s):
The Soldier Who Returned: A Tale of Redemption in a Once War-torn Land
cgtn.com
