The Courage of Major Hugh Thompson Jr. during the My Lai Massacre

On March 16, 1968, during the Vietnam War, U.S. Army helicopter pilot Hugh Thompson Jr. witnessed something unthinkable — American soldiers slaughtering unarmed civilians in the village of My Lai.

What he did next would go down as one of the most courageous acts of moral bravery in U.S. military history.

In this episode, we share the powerful story of how Major Thompson risked everything — his career, his reputation, even his life — to stop the massacre, confront those responsible, and save as many lives as he could.

This isn’t a story about combat against the enemy. It’s about the strength to do what’s right when your own side has gone terribly wrong.

Listener discretion is advised due to graphic content, including descriptions of violence and atrocities.

Join this channel to get access to perks:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZMN1lzlPAu16EUXJlHOj2w/join

Please view our other video to learn about Medal of Honor heroes.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

🔹 Subscribe and click the bell icon for more captivating stories of war heroes and military history.

🔹 Learn more about Hugh Thompson Jr. and other American heroes on our website: www.dutyandvalor.com

🔹 About Duty & Valor:

Duty & Valor is dedicated to honoring and recognizing the sacrifices made by US military veterans by sharing their lesser-known stories. We believe that by sharing these stories, we can deepen the understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices made by our veterans. Whether you're a military veteran, active-duty service member, or simply interested in learning more about the sacrifices made by US military heroes, Duty & Valor Podcast is the perfect resource for you. Join us each week as we honor and acknowledge the sacrifices made by our US military heroes through straightforward storytelling.

📚 Sources:
https://americanswhotellthetruth.org/portraits/hugh-thompson-jr/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_Thompson_Jr.
https://www.military.com/history/hugh-c-thompson-jr.html
https://allthatsinteresting.com/hugh-thompson
https://alt.obituaries.narkive.com/TbdDV2h9/hugh-c-thompson-jr-daily-advertiser-lafayette-la-obit

🔹 Connect with us on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Duty-Valor-Podcast-100087500959777/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dutyandvalorpodcast
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dutyandvalor

Copyright © 2025 Duty & Valor. All rights reserved.