Scope and Contents

The collection consists of two books written by Mel Stephens documenting his military service, which included serving aboard the USS Providence, as an officer with Mobile Riverine Force (1968-1969), as Flag Lieutenant to Admiral Zumwalt in Saigon and Washington, and as Assistant to President Nixon for Vietnam Affairs (1971-1972). Volume One is Stephens' autobiography, while Volume Two consists of Stephens' letters to his mother during his time with Mobile Riverine Force as well as additional commentary.

Biographical / Historical

Lieutenant Mel Stephens was born in Akron, Ohio in 1945. He voluteered for the U.S. Navy Reserve through the Navy ROTC program in 1963. From June 1967 through March 1968, he served aboard the USS Providence. From March 1968 through April 1969, he served with Mobile Riverine Force River Squadron 13, where he was one of three officers commanding River Division 132. He participated in Operation Giant Slingshot. From May-October 1969, he served at Mare Island Riverine Training Facility in Vallejo, California. From October 1969 through September 1970, he served as Flag Lieutenant to Admiral Zumwalt, Chief of Naval Operations - first in Vietnam and then in Washington. Lt. Stephens received numerous awards including the Purple Heart, the Silver Star, 3 Bronze Stars, and the Navy Commendation Medal before being honorably discharged in 1971. After his military service, he completed law school and served as Assistant to the President for Vietnam Veteran Affairs.