Wouldn't actually surprise me if the NYT made up the VC. How exactly would he identify a battle that took place 30-35 years ago in a 20-year war if he doesn't know Kerry (or anything else to distinguish it from perhaps hundreds of battles)? I just find it hard to picture
It was easy to find this guy. Vietnam is a communist tyranny -- they just have to check in with their comrades at the Ministry of Propaganda, who will happily provide someone to cheerfully give the party line. Whoever they pick will say whatever they want -- if he ever wants to eat again.