By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
Mike Niedens had to experience combat during the Vietnam War. As a small sign of appreciation for his service, the Great Bend resident for the past four decades was able to experience a recognition that few will receive. In front of a crowd of more than 27,000, Niedens was recognized for his service at Saturday’s Kansas City Royals game at Kauffman Stadium.
Niedens enlisted into the military in the late 1960s with his best friend in what was referred to as the “Buddy Plan.” The Buddy Plan allowed friends to enlist and go through basic training together.
Niedens’ friend was an all-state football and basketball player, but broke his leg his freshman year in high school and therefor flunked his physical. Niedens went on to training by himself and went through the airborne infantry or Jump School. Niedens was part of the “boots on the ground” in Vietnam in 1968 and 1969.
"I flew out of Fort Lewis and went to Cam Ranh Bay," said Niedens. "I was assigned to infantry division. I was walking point for seven or eight months in combat. I was on the chopper probably 260 days. We jitterbugged out here and there. The good Lord got me home. I'm very grateful for that."
Niedens’ friend, Matt Keenan, submitted Niedens’ name to a retired colonel which helped set up the recognition at Saturday’s Royals game. Since the age of five, Niedens has loved the game of baseball.
"I played college ball for a year," said Niedens. "In the service, when I got to Germany, I made the Division team. I had a chance to almost sign with Cincinnati, but I hurt my arm and my back so I was done. I've loved baseball for a long time."
Niedens was recognized after the fifth inning during Kansas City’s win over the Chicago White Sox.