KPLC 7 News, Lake Charles, LouisianaApril 28, 2010 - Jesse James Semien

April 28, 2010 - Jesse James Semien

April 28, 2010 – Jesse James Semien

By John Bridges - bio | email

CHLOE, LA (KPLC) - When Jesse James Semien signed up with the U.S. Marines in 1964, he had no idea he would do two tours of duty in Vietnam.  He served as a platoon radio operator during his first stint in 1965 and 66. 

"I think the worst part of it was you were engaging an enemy that everyone looks alike," said Semien. "It's very difficult to define who is who.  This made our job much more difficult." 

On his second tour in 1968 and 1969, he served as a platoon sergeant and earned a Purple Heart after being injured by enemy fire.  But the biggest pain he felt was when he and fellow Marines returned home to the U.S. 

"We had a problem with the airline.  There were people picketing at the airport.  We were told to change out of our uniform into civilian clothes.  We would still be honored as military for flying purposes and for cost.  That was our big disappointment for all of us who came back." 

Semien says he was only doing his job. 

"We were Marines.  We were designed to defend the country.  This is where we were assigned to.  It's like most any other job.  You do what you're supposed to do."

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