In Episode 71 of The Grey Man Podcast, we sit down with Lester Mengel, the last serving Vietnam War veteran in the Australian Regular Army, who completed more than 50 years of continuous military service. Lester shares his remarkable journey from joining the Army as a 17-year-old in 1968 to serving in Vietnam, surviving deadly landmine incidents, and being exposed to Agent Orange without protective equipment. He speaks openly about the challenges of returning home, living with PTSD, the impact of military life on his family, and the lessons learned after decades of service. This episode covers: Vietnam War combat experiences Life in the Australian Army PTSD and mental health after war Agent Orange exposure Returning home after Vietnam Military leadership and service Family sacrifices during military life Transition from RSM to Major Veteran advocacy and recovery Advice for today's veterans If you enjoy real conversations with veterans, first responders, and military professionals, subscribe to The Grey Man Podcast, like this video, and share it with someone who would appreciate these powerful stories. Sponsor – Baldwin Advocacy & Claims Baldwin Advocacy & Claims (BAC) helps Australian veterans navigate DVA claims with experienced veteran advocates. • Free confidential consultation • Initial liability claims • Permanent impairment claims • Medical separation assistance • Appeals and advocacy Website: https://baldwinclaims.com.au Listen Spotify – The Grey Man Podcast YouTube Music – The Grey Man Podcast Follow Instagram – @thegreymanpodcast Facebook – @greymanpodcast #VietnamVeteran#VietnamWar#PTSD#AustralianArmy#MilitaryHistory#veterans#TheGreyManPodcast#WarStories#MilitaryPodcast#LesterMengel#Australianmilitaryhistory#AustralianArmy#HistoryPodcast#MilitaryHistory#Veterans#GreyManPodcast#AgentOrange
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