Pete Rafferty was born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, the son of a coal miner who died at a young age. In 1963 he achieved his childhood dream by enlisting in the Marines. Following his training he was assigned to the 1st Marine Regiment of the 1st Marine Division. By July, 1965 the unit deployed to South Vietnam, where Rafferty served as a communications and radio operator during numerous combat patrols. He contracted a severe case of malaria late that year and was medevaced home.
Interview Links
Feature Excerpt
Don't Leave Your Buddies!
Abstract
Interview Session 01 (Audio)
Experiences in Vietnam w/the Marines in 1964-65
Interview Session 02 (Audio)
Experiences in Vietnam & dealing with stresses of combat
Transcript
Photos
Caption
A young Peter Rafferty circa 1951, when he was approximately seven years old.
Where:
Unknown
When:
Circa 1951
Ownership:
May be restricted. Patrons desiring to use this photograph should contact the ALPL Audio-Visual Curator.
Caption
Pete Rafferty rides his bicycle in front of the family home in Springfield, Illinois when he was 12, circa 1956.
Where:
Springfield, Illinois
When:
Circa 1956
Ownership:
Narrator’s photo
Caption
Peter Rafferty’s senior class photo. He graduated from Feitshans High School in 1962.
Where:
Feitshans High School, Springfield, Illinois
When:
1962
Ownership:
This image is considered to be in the public domain.
Caption
The Marine Corps’ official photo for a proud Private Rafferty upon his graduation from boot camp at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California in April, 1963.
Where:
Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California
When:
April, 1963
Ownership:
This image is considered to be in the public domain.