Episode 56 – Captain Jack E. Helmann, U.S. Navy (Retired)

Welcome to Episode 56 of the Voices to Veterans podcast. This episode features the story of Captain Jack E. Helmann, U.S. Navy (Retired).

Jack’s story epitomizes what life is like as a career naval officer. Jack spent years at sea, deployed on Navy destroyers to hotspots around the globe, showing the U.S. flag and demonstrating U.S. resolve. He also went into harm’s way on the “gun line” on ships off the coast of South and North Vietnam, providing supporting fires to troops on the ground and saving American lives during the Vietnam War. His experiences earned him the privilege of commanding his own destroyer, the USS Berkeley (DDG-15), from January 1977 to February 1979. After listening to Jack’s story, you’ll better understand the dedication and sacrifice required of those serving in today’s Navy, always ready to deploy whenever and wherever our nation calls.

If you’d prefer to read Jack’s story, or want to see additional photographs documenting his service, please check out the written version of this podcast.

Also, if you enjoyed Jack’s story, please sign up for the Voices to Veterans Spotlight monthly newsletter by clicking here. Once each month, you’ll receive a new written veteran’s story and a new podcast directly in your mailbox. Best of all, it’s free and you can unsubscribe at any time.