After 52 years, Minnesota Vietnam War veteran reunited with box of medals, memories

For many veterans, the memories of war can be difficult, even painful.
But a Vietnam War veteran in Otter Tail County is learning that fellow soldiers will follow through, half a century after their mission is over.

"I signed a huge contract for $13,000 with the Atlanta Falcons," said John Nordgaard.

Nordgaard's path to Vietnam actually began on the football field. A stand-out quarterback at the University of Minnesota-Morris, he had a tryout with the Falcons.

For him, making the team meant playing in the NFL. Getting cut meant going to war.