Pulaski Times

The Veterans History Project, part of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center, is celebrating its 25th anniversary. This initiative collects and preserves the oral histories of U.S. veterans. Senator John Boozman from Arkansas has been a strong advocate for the project, having trained over 1,200 Arkansans to participate and conducted more than 100 interviews himself.

One recent contribution by Boozman highlights Clyde Gudermuth from Fort Smith, a U.S. Army veteran. Gudermuth grew up near St. Louis and attended the Missouri School of Mines in Rolla, where he was involved in ROTC and studied mechanical engineering. Influenced by a family friend who was a retired general, Gudermuth joined the military.

During his time with the Engineer Corps ROTC unit at Fort Leonard Wood, Gudermuth discovered an interest in flying. "I liked it," he said about passing the physical test for flying when others did not.

After being commissioned in the Army, Gudermuth trained as an officer at Fort Belvoir but pursued his goal to become a pilot at Fort Wolters, Texas. He fondly recalled his instructor: “He was outstanding.”

In 1965, Gudermuth moved to Fort Rucker (now Fort Novosel) to learn flying helicopters like the H-19 and later served in Vietnam with the 118th Assault Helicopter Company known as "Scorpions." He described frequent flights under fire and surviving dangerous missions including being shot down twice.

Gudermuth shared experiences such as transporting VIPs like Ann-Margret during USO shows and testing aviation equipment after returning stateside to Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona.

Reflecting on his service's impact on his life, Gudermuth recommended military service for its leadership lessons. "Clyde Gudermuth honorably served our country," Boozman stated while emphasizing capturing such stories for future generations.

Senator Boozman's office plans events across Arkansas communities throughout 2025 to commemorate VHP's anniversary by conducting veteran interviews and training participants interested in joining this historical effort.