Interview, Russell Chimera, USA

Russell Chimera (b. 1942) was born in Rochester, New York, and grew up on a small farm in Penfield. He married his first wife in 1961 and moved to North Carolina when they separated in 1966. In 1967, Chimera enlisted in the United States Army. He completed his basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and received advanced training at Fort Eustis, Virginia, to become a crew chief on a helicopter. In 1968, Chimera was sent to Vietnam where he served a 13-month tour. He was stationed with the 11th Calvary at the Blackhorse base camp, where he fixed helicopters and served on guard and kitchen duty. Chimera finished his tour of duty at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and was honorably discharged in 1970. After leaving the Army, Chimera remarried and moved around the country, working a variety of different jobs. He eventually returned to Rochester, where he worked in home remodeling, for Kodak, and for Rochester Beer and Beverage. He also joined the local Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 20.

In this interview, Chimera reflects on his attitude about serving in the Army during the Vietnam War, revealing that overall he did not mind being sent to Vietnam, but that he did not realize how bad the situation was until he got there and experienced it firsthand. He explains that he did not trust the local Vietnamese because it was difficult to tell which side they were on. He also remarks on his relationship with his fellow servicemen and how at age 24, he was several years older than most of the soldiers he was fighting with, making him feel more like a mentor than a friend to the younger men. Chimera talks about coming home from the war and encountering protesters at the airport in California. He contrasts this experience with the very warm welcome he received from his family and friends in Rochester. Chimera notes that he is married to his third wife and is actively engaged in local politics and current events.