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Star Trek Vet's Unseen Vietnam War Role
29 Jul
Summary
- Robert Picardo played a surgeon drafted into the Vietnam War.
- 'China Beach' focused on medical staff, earning critical acclaim.
- The Emmy-winning series focused on wartime experiences away from battle.

Robert Picardo, widely recognized for his role as The Doctor in 'Star Trek: Voyager,' previously starred in the Vietnam War drama 'China Beach.' The series aired for four seasons on ABC between 1988 and 1991.
Picardo played Captain Dick Richard, a surgeon who was drafted into the conflict. The show differentiated itself from other war dramas by centering its narrative on the medical personnel and civilians at an evacuation hospital.
This focus on a different facet of wartime experience garnered critical praise. 'China Beach' received five Emmy Awards during its run, including two for Dana Delany's portrayal of Captain Colleen McMurphy.