Veteran Fought Communism Abroad, Warns of Its Return

Veteran Fought Communism Abroad, Warns of Its Return

Vietnam War veteran Reverend Dr. William Develin recently shared his powerful experiences and views on Vietnam War Veterans Day. He spoke about his time serving in Vietnam and his ongoing fight against communism. Develin volunteered for the military twice, driven by his father’s encouragement and a deep sense of duty. His two years in Vietnam, from age 19 to 21, were formative. He was wounded and received the Purple Heart, though he initially tried to refuse the honor, feeling his injuries weren’t severe enough compared to others.

“I shed blood for the freedom of our country,” Develin stated, emphasizing his belief in the cause. He fought against communism, hoping to protect Vietnam. While that goal wasn’t fully realized, he carries the conviction that his service defended American freedoms. This message is one he shares with his children and grandchildren, highlighting the sacrifices made for liberty.

A Warrior Forged in Battle

The most impactful moments for Develin occurred in the heat of battle. Facing exploding shells and the real fear of death profoundly shaped him. He described an attack on his ship off the coast of North Vietnam, hit by shore batteries. This intense experience, he said, transformed him from a shy young man into a warrior. It also deepened his understanding of spiritual warfare as a Christian.

“As a Christian, it taught me about warfare,” he explained. He now sees himself as a warrior for America and a warrior for Jesus Christ. This dual commitment drives his continued advocacy for freedom. He echoed Ronald Reagan’s sentiment that America is only one generation away from losing its freedoms. His time in Vietnam, from 1971 to 1972, cemented his resolve to defend liberty.

Communism: A Global Cancer

Develin views communism as a global threat. He has witnessed its impact firsthand, not only in Vietnam but also in Hong Kong in 2019. While supporting students protesting against China’s takeover, he experienced tear gas and rubber bullets. He described facing the People’s Liberation Army and Hong Kong riot police directly. This experience solidified his belief that communism has caused immense suffering and death throughout history.

Communism has killed, whether it’s Ukraine, Russia, Cambodia, Vietnam, North Korea, People’s Republic of China. Look at the tens of millions of people that were murdered, killed by communism.

He cited figures like Pol Pot, Mao Zedong, and Joseph Stalin, whose regimes caused tens of millions of deaths. Develin expressed dismay at seeing communist symbols at protests in America. He pointed out that such displays would lead to arrest in communist countries. He mentioned the case of Ventus Lau, a student activist arrested in Hong Kong and still imprisoned, and Jimmy Lai, who received a harsh sentence, as examples of communist oppression.

The Guise of Democratic Socialism

Develin warns that communism often hides behind the label of democratic socialism. He sees this trend in New York City, which he calls the “People’s Republic of New York.” He urges people to vote against democratic socialists, whom he believes are anti-freedom and anti-American. He described communism not as a benign government but as a “murderous beast” that feeds on human suffering.

He encourages people to study democracy, freedom, liberty, and the history of communism. He noted that freedoms of speech, assembly, and the press are suppressed in Hong Kong today. This suppression is causing people to flee the city. Develin implores listeners to do their homework and continue fighting for the American way against communism and any ideology that undermines freedom and democracy.

Honoring Sacrifice Through Education

When asked how future generations can honor the sacrifices of veterans like himself, Develin stressed the importance of education. He believes people have a responsibility to teach children about the dangers of communism. He contrasted the freedoms enjoyed in America, such as the ability to protest or preach the gospel openly, with the severe restrictions in communist countries.

He shared his experiences in Cuba, where he has preached the gospel 55 times. He described the suffering of the Cuban people, with shortages of goods and constant government surveillance. He noted that millions have fled Cuba seeking better lives. Develin invited those who advocate for socialism or communism to visit Cuba and witness its realities firsthand. He believes that by understanding the sacrifices made and the true nature of oppressive ideologies, future generations can better appreciate and defend the freedoms they have inherited.

Source: ‘I Shed Blood for the Freedom of Our Country’: Vietnam War Veteran (YouTube)