Among the 2.5 million American men and women who served in the Vietnam War, some were drafted, some volunteered, but most had one thing in common, they were in their early twenties. The vast majority were men. Groups of soldiers from different parts of the United States, many from poor working class families, had to carry an M-16 rifle. The majority had limited experience and rushed training. American soldiers described their stay in Vietnam as confusing, “it was hard to distinguish the enemy from normal civilians,”  one veteran said. Sometimes during a patrol they would encounter the enemy. It was usually a brief and intense confrontation. Vietnamese forces frequently attacked American forces, using guerrilla tactics. The Vietnamese especially favored surprise attacks at night. Combat was often a time of chaos for both the Americans and the Vietnamese. The Americans counterattacked using chemical weapons, like Agent Orange. This affected both civilians and soldiers from both sides. Americans who returned home had to deal with physical challenges and mental health issues. 

Homecoming

Experiences in Vietnam

Life After the War

Sacrifices

Reflections on the War