Save The Last Bullet: Memoir of a Boy Soldier in Hitler's Army
- S5E171
- 1:26:35
- June 23rd 2026
In this episode, Tyler sits down with Heidi Langbein-Allen to discuss her father's harrowing experience as a conscripted boy soldier during the final, brutal days of World War II. At just 13 years old, Heidi's father was taken from his parents under the guise of "protection," only to be indoctrinated and thrust into combat against the Russian advance on the Eastern Front.
Heidi shares how she eventually turned her father’s taped recollections into a poignant memoir, detailing his journey from a child in the Hitler Youth to a soldier in the Wehrmacht, and his eventual post-war life dedicated to diplomacy and the defense of democracy in Europe. This conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting trauma of war and the critical importance of documenting oral histories before they are lost to time.
Featured Resources
- Book: Save the Last Bullet: Memoir of a Boy Soldier in Hitler's Army by Heidi Langbein-Allen.
- Upcoming Work: Heidi discusses her upcoming anthology, Lost Youth: The Horrors of World War II Seen Through Young Eyes, which collects firsthand accounts of childhood survivors of the war.
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Disclaimer:
"The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of Defense or the U.S. Government."
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Coming Home Well is a podcast dedicated to helping the Unified Service Family- transitioning servicemembers, veterans, first responders, and their loved ones- navigate the journey of reintegration and wellness. Hosted by Dr. Tyler Pieron, each episode explores alternative resources and innovative support systems that go beyond traditional approaches to healing the visible and invisible wounds of service.
From non-traditional therapies and community-based programs to expert interviews and practical tools, this podcast serves as a valuable guide for those seeking pathways to improved mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By highlighting diverse healing modalities, we aim to provide inclusive resources that support every individual's unique path.
In addition to spotlighting these resources, Dr. Pieron is occasionally joined by historians to revisit key moments in our nation's history—preserving the legacy of service and sacrifice while providing context that deepens our understanding of the lived experience of those who serve.
Whether you are a veteran, a first responder, a family member, a caregiver, or an advocate, Coming Home Well offers the insights, connections, and tools necessary to support a successful transition and a healthy, purpose-driven life.
Meet the Host
Dr. Tyler Pieron is an Army veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan (and a few other conflicts). He served in the Army’s Criminal Investigation Command as a Special Agent until he was medically retired. Tyler hosts Coming Home Well’s radio and podcast shows and focuses on TBI research and helping veterans wade through the bureaucracy to obtain benefits, especially education.
Tyler used his GI Bill benefits to earn a Master of Science degree in Cyber Security Policy and then a PhD. in Information Assurance after receiving a sabbatical and scholarship from the Pat Roberts Intelligence Scholars Program. Tyler lives with his wife Claire, their 3 children (2 boys and a girl), 3 dogs (Beagle, Boxer and Great Dane), 2 lizards (Bearded Dragon and Leopard Gecko), and many fish, near Charlottesville, VA, where he works with the Department of Defense on cyber intelligence issues.