Surviving Vietnam & Processing Moral Injury with Steven Andrews
- S5E175
- 1:03:44
- September 4th 2026
Tyler talks with veteran and author Steven Andrews about his unique historical fiction book, See the Light, Kiss the Ground. Andrews shares what it was like being drafted in 1969, thrust into leadership as an E-6 Staff Sergeant, and using his contemporaneous notes to capture the realities of combat, gallows humor, and moral injury.
Key Takeaways
- The "Shake and Bake" Route: The Army's urgent need for small-unit leaders rushed Andrews through NCO school straight into Vietnam as an inexperienced E-6.
- Docu-Novel Format: The book pairs fictional combat timelines with real historical events like Kent State and the My Lai trials.
- Processing Trauma: Andrews discusses how writing honest letters home and documenting his experiences acted as a critical pressure release.
- Veterans Across Eras: A comparison of the hostile homecomings Vietnam veterans faced versus today's community support.
Mentioned in This Episode
- Book: See the Light, Kiss the Ground by Steven Andrews (available on Amazon)
- References: Kent State, My Lai Massacre, Karl Marlantes' What It Is Like to Go to War
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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of Defense or the U.S. Government.
Coming Home Well
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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.