How can you have mistaken "searing" recollections?
Do you recall the plot of "Apocalypse Now"?
Five miles across the border.
Christmas.
Secret missions.
This story first came out of Kerry's brain in 1979, the year Apocalypse Now" was released.
Drugs can have a "searing" effect sometimes.
Self induced false memory syndrome.
No telling what other delusions he may be operating under!
Back in the late 60's those were referred to as "trips." Today they are referred to as drug induced hallucinations.
Or lies.