A SOLDIER’S JOURNEY: THE MEANING OF VIETNAM MILITARY SERVICE

Insights into “Vietnam Uncensored”

Being a Vietnam veteran is complex. I served in the U.S. Armed Forces during a war that took many lives and left deep scars. The Vietnam War lasted over two decades, marked by fierce fighting and a country torn apart. It shaped who I became — a man molded by combat, sacrifice, and a search for honor amidst chaos.

When I was drafted, the nation was divided. Many viewed military service as a patriotic duty, a chance to stop the spread of communism. But the truth was murky, and the conflict posed tough moral questions. My comrades and I returned with wounds both seen and unseen. We bore the weight of PTSD, often dismissed by society and the Veterans Administration, which was supposed to care for us.

Our return was met with hostility and indifference. Unlike veterans of past wars, we found ourselves blamed for the turmoil of the times. This alienation deepened our isolation, complicating our reintegration into civilian life. Yet, over the years, the story of Vietnam veterans has begun to change. Memorials and support programs now honor our sacrifices. The Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial in Washington, D.C., is a testament to our struggles and losses.

Still, being a Vietnam veteran means grappling with a dual identity. We are soldiers and…