Ronald Ridenhour

American journalist

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July 13, 2026

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Ronald Ridenhour was an American journalist who played a crucial role in exposing the My Lai Massacre. While serving in Vietnam, Ridenhour heard firsthand accounts from soldiers about the killings of unarmed civilians in My Lai. He then conducted his own investigation, gathering eyewitness testimony. In March 1969, Ridenhour sent a detailed report of his findings to government officials and members of Congress. This action prompted official investigations into the massacre and the subsequent cover-up, leading to public outcry and contributing to the anti-war movement. Journalist Seymour Hersh further publicized the event, which ultimately led to a court-martial for Lieutenant William Calley.

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My Lai Massacre
Cover-up, investigation, and legacy
By late April 1968 Ronald Ridenhour, a helicopter door gunner who had trained with members of Charlie Company, had begun to pursue an informal investigation of the massacre after learning of it from troops who had been present that day. Ridenhour spent the rest of his time in Vietnam…
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By late April 1968 Ronald Ridenhour, a helicopter door gunner who had trained with members of Charlie Company, had begun to pursue an informal investigation of the massacre after learning of it from troops who had been present that day. Ridenhour spent the rest of his time in Vietnam…
Read More