Video: Vietnam War Photobook Interview with the photographer

Mark Jury felt he needed to get an up-close and personal view of the war in Vietnam.

"I didn't agree with the war particularly as it went on, but I thought it was going to be the overpowering experience of my generation," the Waverly resident said. "I was determined I was going to experience it."

In the summer of 1969, he got his wish. However, his yearlong stay wasn't spent clutching an M-16, but rather a few battered Nikons.

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Images of war: Waverly resident saw Vietnam conflict through lens as Army photographer

"Published in several languages, including German and Japanese, "Gramp" went on to win the ALA Notable Book Award and the World Understanding Award in the Nikon/University of Missouri Competition.

From books, Mr. Jury and his brother ventured into filmmaking. In 1981, they produced the feature-length "Chillysmith Farm," which was inspired by "Gramp." The film received the Blue Ribbon at the American Film Festival, CINE Golden Eagle and Best Film at the White House Conference on Aging Film Showcase."

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Vietnam experience led to career as freelance photographer