Speaking & Media

Bringing Vietnam's Story to Life—In Person

An Experienced, Engaging Speaker

Tom Starr doesn't just talk about the Vietnam War—he lived it. As a Bronze Star recipient with Top Secret Crypto clearance, and the only person to serve as Executive Director of four college football bowl games, he brings a perspective to the stage that few speakers can match: the authority of firsthand experience combined with decades of research and a natural storyteller's instinct.

Currently an Honor Guide at the National Medal of Honor Museum and a 2025 Dallas Cowboys Community Hero Award recipient, Tom connects with listeners through plain-spoken clarity, humor, and the kind of conviction that only comes from someone who was there.

Request Tom for Your Event General Contact
Tom Starr speaking at an event

Speaking Topics

Tom tailors each presentation to his audience. These are his core topics—each can be adapted for keynotes, panels, Q&A sessions, or intimate conversations.

Why Vietnam Remains Misunderstood 50+ Years Later

The war ended decades ago, but the myths persist. Tom walks audiences through what actually happened, what the public was told, and where the gaps remain in the American understanding of Vietnam.

Media Narratives vs. the Lived Experience

How did journalism shape—and distort—America's view of the war? Tom compares the media record to the reality on the ground, drawing on personal experience and decades of research.

The Thesis: How the War's Outcome Is Mischaracterized

The popular narrative says the U.S. lost the Vietnam War. Tom challenges that assertion with a detailed, evidence-based argument that reframes the conflict's outcome.

Walking in Their Boots: What It Was Like to Serve

A deeply personal talk about what daily life looked like for a soldier in Vietnam—the fear, the boredom, the camaraderie, the kindness, and the courage that never made the evening news.

From Vietnam to the Armed Forces Bowl — A Life of Service

How does a decorated Vietnam veteran become the only person in history to lead four college bowl games? Tom shares the thread that connects military service, intercollegiate athletics, and a lifelong commitment to honoring those who serve.

Event Formats

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Keynote Address

30–60 minutes

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Podcast / Radio

Remote or in-person

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Panel Discussion

Moderated or open

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Book Club / Library

Intimate conversation

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Classroom / University

Lecture + Q&A

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Veteran Organization

VFW, Legion, DAV, etc.

For Media & Producers

Pitch-ready angles for podcasts, radio, TV, and print. Tom is comfortable in any format and brings a rare combination of personal experience and historical depth.

Story Angles

"Why Vietnam remains misunderstood 50+ years later"

"What the public missed—media narratives vs. the lived experience"

"The thesis: how the war's outcome is commonly mischaracterized"

"From Vietnam to the Armed Forces Bowl—a life of service"

"The only man to run four college bowl games—and he co-founded three of them"

"Dallas Cowboys Community Hero: a veteran still serving at the Medal of Honor Museum"

Quick Facts

  • Vietnam veteran, Bronze Star recipient
  • Top Secret Crypto clearance
  • Honor Guide, National Medal of Honor Museum
  • Dallas Cowboys Community Hero Award (2025)
  • Only person to direct 4 college bowl games
  • Co-founder of 3 bowl games, including Armed Forces Bowl
  • Starr MVP Award named in his honor
  • 2x Bowl Executive-of-the-Year
  • B.A. University of Iowa; Iowa State University
  • Based in Fort Worth, TX
  • Available for remote or in-person
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