Vietnam War was one of the deadliest and most divisive wars in American history, which claimed the lives of millions of soldiers and civilians. Many Vietnam War veterans returned to their home country to face not only physical scars but also mental and emotional trauma. They were often disrespected, marginalized and traumatized as due to the backlash against the war effort which was largely conducted because of political reasons with no clear objectives.
One of the ways in which Vietnam veterans expressed their discontent and protest against the war was by throwing their ribbons. Ribbons were awarded as a symbol of bravery, hardship, and dedication during the Vietnam War, and many soldiers felt disgusted by the meaning of those ribbons they had earned for serving a country that had betrayed them.
The reasons why Vietnam vets threw their ribbons were also tied to their conscience and the feeling of betrayal by the political class. Many veterans felt that it was wrong for them to be fighting a war that had no clear objective or plan, and were frustrated with their government’s lack of understanding of the ground realities of the battlefield.
In addition, many veterans saw their comrades die in front of them, which made them question the morality of their actions and the fundamental reason for the war. It was a war where ideologies and politics were the paramount considerations, and soldiers were just a pawn in the hands of politicians who had no understanding of the realities of the battlefield.
As a result, throwing their ribbons became a way for veterans to symbolically reject the war that they had been forced to fight and protest against the government’s policies. It was a way for them to express their disappointment and anger that the country they had fought for had betrayed them. The gesture of throwing the ribbons was a powerful one, and it resonated with many people who had similar sentiments about the war.
Vietnam vets threw their ribbons as a symbol of their protest against the war and the government policies that forced them to fight for an unjustified cause. It was a powerful message that resonated with many people who had similar sentiments about the war and its aftermath. Today, Vietnam War veterans continue to fight for their rights and recognition as heroes who served their country with bravery and honor, despite the scars of trauma and betrayal that they carry with them.
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What do the Vietnam ribbons mean?
The Vietnam ribbons are honorific ribbons that were awarded to veterans of the Vietnam War. These ribbons are worn on military uniforms as a symbol of recognition for the service and sacrifices made by the soldiers who fought during this intense and divisive conflict.
The ribbons for Vietnam War service are often distinguished by a combination of colors and patterns that represent different aspects of the conflict. The most common designs feature a red, white, and blue stripe, as well as a yellow or gold stripe that represents the sun and the hope for peace.
The meaning behind these ribbons is complicated, as the Vietnam War itself was a complex and controversial event. For many veterans of the conflict, the ribbons represent a sense of pride and honor in having served their country, even under difficult and often dangerous circumstances. These colors are also a way for them to communicate their service to others and honor the sacrifice of their colleagues who did not make it home.
However, there are other veterans and individuals who view the Vietnam War and these ribbons in a less positive light. For many, the war was a tragic and unnecessary conflict that resulted in the loss of countless lives and created lasting trauma for all those involved. For these individuals, the ribbons may be seen as a symbol of a flawed and misguided military campaign that should not be celebrated or glorified in any way.
In the end, the meaning of the Vietnam ribbons often depends on one’s personal experiences, views, and beliefs about war and military service. Regardless of one’s perspective, however, it is important to recognize the service and sacrifices made by those who fought during this challenging time in our nation’s history.
By honoring these veterans and their legacy, we can strive to remember the lessons of the past and work towards a more peaceful and just future.
What ribbons do you get for service in Vietnam?
The most well-known military ribbons are the Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces who served in the country of Vietnam between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973. To receive this medal, service members had to have been assigned to Vietnam or its surrounding waters or airspace for at least 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days.
The Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal was awarded by the government of South Vietnam to service members who were deployed to that country between 1961 and the fall of Saigon in 1975.
Other military ribbons that service members may receive for their service in Vietnam include the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Navy Unit Commendation, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
In addition to military ribbons, there were also civilian ribbons awarded to those who served in Vietnam. The most well-known is the Vietnam Civilian Service Award, which was presented to members of the federal government and other civilians who served in Vietnam during the war. The Civilian Service Award recognized the sacrifices and contributions of civilians who served alongside military personnel in Vietnam.
The ribbons one receives for service in Vietnam vary depending on their military branch, their length of service, and their specific duties during the war. However, some of the most common ribbons awarded include the Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Civilian Service Award.
What qualifies you as a Vietnam veteran?
There are specific criteria that qualify someone as a Vietnam veteran, and these criteria are established by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). First and foremost, to be considered a Vietnam veteran, one must have served in the armed forces during the Vietnam War era, which spans from August 5, 1964, to May 7, 1975.
There are other qualifying factors that must be considered as well. One must have served in the military during a time when the United States was officially involved in the Vietnam War. This includes those who served in-country, as well as those who served elsewhere during the war but were still part of the overall effort.
In addition, one must have received an honorable or general discharge from their military service to qualify.
There are also certain military occupational specialties (MOS) that qualify one for Vietnam veteran status. These MOSs include those who served in combat support roles, such as infantry, artillery, and special operations forces. However, service in non-combat roles, such as clerical or administrative positions, does not automatically qualify one as a Vietnam veteran.
Finally, one can apply to the VA to receive a Vietnam Service Medal, which is awarded to all military personnel who served in-country or supported combat operations in Vietnam during the war. This prestigious medal serves as a symbol of honor and recognition for those who served during this difficult time in American history.
Being a Vietnam veteran is a significant point of pride for those who served during this tumultuous period in our nation’s history. It is important to honor and recognize these brave men and women for their service and sacrifice, and to ensure they have access to the benefits and resources they deserve as veterans.
What qualifies you for a Combat Action Ribbon?
The Combat Action Ribbon (CAR) is a United States Navy and Marine Corps award that is presented to personnel who have actively participated in ground or surface combat in the presence of the enemy. The purpose of the award is to recognize and honor those individuals who have demonstrated bravery and heroism in the face of hostile enemy forces.
To qualify for the Combat Action Ribbon, a service member must have been in active combat with the enemy and engaged in direct fire with the enemy. The action must have occurred during military operations and the individual must have demonstrated outstanding courage and leadership in the face of enemy opposition.
It is important to note that being in the vicinity of combat or being in a combat support role does not qualify an individual for the Combat Action Ribbon. Additionally, the act of engaging in combat must be in accordance with the laws of war and rules of engagement.
Furthermore, a service member must also meet certain eligibility criteria, such as being assigned to an infantry unit, a combatant command, or a unit that has been designated by the Secretary of the Navy as eligible for the Combat Action Ribbon.
An individual may qualify for the Combat Action Ribbon by actively participating in ground or surface combat in the presence of the enemy, meeting eligibility criteria, and demonstrating outstanding courage and leadership in the face of enemy opposition.
Can civilians wear military ribbons?
The short answer to this question is no, civilians are not authorized to wear military ribbons. Military ribbons are earned through specific achievements and are awarded as a form of recognition for the individual’s service. These ribbons are intended to be worn by the individual on their uniform to signify their accomplishments and achievements while serving in the military.
It is important to note that wearing military ribbons without proper authorization is considered a serious offense and may be punishable by law. This is to ensure that individuals cannot falsely claim to have earned the honors and benefits associated with military service.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. In some cases, civilians may be authorized to wear military ribbons if they are participating in an official military ceremony or event. For example, a civilian may be allowed to wear a military ribbon if they are attending a funeral or memorial service for a veteran or active-duty service member.
In this case, the civilian would be showing respect and honor for the individual’s military service.
Another exception to this rule is for family members of military service members who have passed away. It is common for surviving family members to be presented with a deceased service member’s military ribbons as a way to honor and remember their loved one’s service. In some cases, family members may choose to wear these ribbons as a way to honor their loved one’s service and sacrifice.
While civilians are generally not authorized to wear military ribbons, there are some exceptions to this rule for official military events or when honoring the service of a deceased service member. It is important to respect and honor the achievements and sacrifices of our military personnel while also upholding the rules and regulations governing the wearing of military ribbons.
Who is eligible for National Defense ribbon?
The National Defense Ribbon is an award that is given to members of the United States Armed Forces who have served during times of national conflict or national emergency. To be eligible for this ribbon, a service member must have been on active duty or in the National Guard or Reserve, and they must have served during one of the qualifying periods of conflict or emergency.
The first period of eligibility for the National Defense Ribbon is from June 27, 1950, to July 27, 1954, which covers the Korean War. The second period of eligibility is from January 1, 1961, to August 14, 1974, which covers the Vietnam War. The third period of eligibility is from August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, which covers the Gulf War.
The fourth period of eligibility is from September 11, 2001, to a date that is yet to be determined, which covers the War on Terror.
In addition to the above periods of eligibility, the National Defense Ribbon can also be awarded for participation in other conflicts and operations deemed to be in the national interest by the Secretary of Defense. Examples of such operations include Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada, Operation Earnest Will in the Persian Gulf, and Operation Restore Hope in Somalia.
In order to receive the National Defense Ribbon, a service member does not have to have served in combat or have been deployed overseas. They only need to have served during one of the qualifying periods of conflict or national emergency, and have been honorably discharged or released from active duty.
The ribbon is considered to be a service medal, and it can be worn on a service member’s uniform as a symbol of their dedication and commitment to the nation’s defense.
Why are Vietnam vets so traumatized?
Vietnam War was one of the most traumatic events in the history of the United States military, and the veterans who served during this conflict suffered immensely. The war lasted for nearly a decade, from 1955 to 1975, and resulted in the deaths of over 58,000 American soldiers. Over 300,000 veterans were injured, and many more returned home with emotional and psychological scars that would last a lifetime.
One of the primary reasons why Vietnam veterans are so traumatized is the nature of the war itself. Unlike previous wars, where the United States was fighting against a clear enemy, Vietnam was a confusing, and seemingly never-ending conflict with no clear purpose. This ambiguity left many soldiers feeling lost and unsure of their mission, and as a result, they struggled to find meaning in their service.
Moreover, the tactics employed in Vietnam were particularly brutal and unforgiving. The Viet Cong were known for their guerilla warfare tactics, which involved ambushes and surprise attacks, often employing booby traps and other deadly weapons. The soldiers never knew when or where the enemy would strike, and this constant state of fear and uncertainty was deeply traumatizing.
Another reason why Vietnam veterans are so traumatized is the treatment they received upon returning home. Unlike soldiers from previous wars, who were celebrated and honored for their service, Vietnam veterans often faced hostility and scorn from the public. Many Americans were vehemently opposed to the war and saw the soldiers as being part of an unjust and immoral conflict.
This rejection only added to the soldiers’ trauma, as they felt betrayed and undervalued for their sacrifice.
Furthermore, the Vietnam War was the first conflict where soldiers were sent home with minimal time between their tour of duty and returning to civilian life. This meant that many soldiers did not receive the proper support or resources needed to transition back to civilian life. Many veterans struggled with addiction, homelessness, and unemployment, and these challenges only compounded their trauma.
Vietnam veterans are so traumatized because of the nature of the war, the brutal tactics used by the enemy, the rejection they experienced upon returning home, and the lack of support and resources available to help them cope with their trauma. It is vitally important that we recognize the sacrifices made by these soldiers and provide them with the support and resources they need to heal from their experiences.
We must honor their service and ensure that they receive the care and respect they deserve.
What do Vietnam vets suffer from?
Vietnam veterans suffer from a range of physical and mental health conditions, many of which are attributed to exposure to the harsh conditions of war and the use of harmful chemicals, such as Agent Orange.
One of the most common physical conditions experienced by Vietnam veterans is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a mental health disorder that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, such as combat. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, hyperarousal, and avoidance behaviors.
Vietnam veterans may also suffer from depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Additionally, many Vietnam veterans were exposed to Agent Orange, a herbicide sprayed during the war which contained dioxin, a toxic chemical. Exposure to Agent Orange has been linked to a number of health issues, including various forms of cancer, diabetes, skin disorders, and neurological disorders.
Moreover, Vietnam veterans may struggle with the physical injuries they sustained during battle, such as loss of limbs, traumatic brain injury, and hearing loss.
Vietnam veterans continue to experience a range of physical and mental health issues that can severely impact their quality of life. It is important that they are provided with the necessary support and resources they need to manage their symptoms and improve their well-being.
Why were Vietnam vets treated badly when returning homes?
The treatment of Vietnam veterans upon their return home was a complex issue with multiple factors playing significant roles. The war in Vietnam was highly controversial both domestically and internationally, and public opinion towards the war shifted significantly throughout the conflict. Initially, the United States’ involvement in the war was seen as a way to contain the spread of Communism, but as the war dragged on, it became increasingly unpopular, and many Americans began to view the war as unnecessary and immoral.
As a result of this changing public opinion, many returning Vietnam veterans faced hostility and indifference from their fellow Americans. Some of the main reasons why Vietnam vets were treated badly when returning home include –
1. A Lack of Public Support – Unlike other wars such as World War II, where the public was united in support of the war and the troops, the Vietnam War did not have the same level of support. Many people saw the war as an unnecessary and avoidable conflict, and this sentiment was reflected through protests and demonstrations across the country.
As a result, returning Vietnam veterans did not receive the same level of respect and gratitude that their counterparts from previous wars had received.
2. Criticism of the War – The war in Vietnam was highly controversial, and as such, many returning veterans were seen as symbols of the war and the politics surrounding it. This led to some veterans being labelled as “baby killers” and “war criminals”, which only added to the hostility they faced upon their return home.
3. PTSD and Mental Health – Many returning veterans from Vietnam had to contend with the long-lasting effects of PTSD and other mental health challenges. However, at the time, PTSD was not recognized as a legitimate medical condition, and many veterans suffering from it received little to no support or treatment.
This led to many veterans falling through the cracks, and some ended up homeless or incarcerated.
4. Lack of Veteran Services – Unlike today, where there are a variety of veteran support services available, the return of Vietnam veterans was not met with appropriate resources and support. Many veterans faced challenges with accessing healthcare, education, and employment, exacerbating the difficulties they already faced upon returning home.
Vietnam veterans were treated badly upon returning home due to a combination of factors, including the lack of public support for the war, criticism of the war, mental health challenges, and a lack of veteran services. It took years for the Vietnam veterans to receive recognition and support for the sacrifices they made for their country, and in hindsight, it is clear that they deserved more.
Thankfully, society has come a long way in terms of acknowledging and honoring our veterans, and the hope is that lessons from the past will continue to be learned and applied to care for America’s modern-day heroes.
What percentage of Vietnam vets have PTSD?
The exact percentage of Vietnam veterans who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is difficult to determine due to various factors such as the timeframe of the study, the definition of PTSD, and the sample size. However, several studies have been conducted to estimate the prevalence of PTSD among Vietnam veterans.
According to the National Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Study (NVVRS), which was conducted in the late 1980s and is considered the most comprehensive study on Vietnam veterans, approximately 15% of male and 8% of female Vietnam veterans were diagnosed with PTSD at the time of the study. However, it is important to keep in mind that the study had certain limitations – it only surveyed veterans who were alive and living in the United States, and it did not include veterans who had already died, were incarcerated, or were living abroad.
Other studies conducted on Vietnam veterans in different timeframes have reported varying prevalence rates of PTSD. For instance, a study conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in the mid-1990s found that 30% of male and 27% of female Vietnam veterans had PTSD at some point in their lives.
Another study by the VA in the early 2000s reported that approximately 15% of male and 10% of female Vietnam veterans had current (i.e., ongoing) PTSD.
It is also worth noting that PTSD can manifest or worsen over time, and veterans may not seek treatment for the condition for years after their service. This means that the prevalence of PTSD among Vietnam veterans may be underestimated in some studies because they only consider diagnosed cases.
The prevalence of PTSD among Vietnam veterans varies depending on the study and timeframe, with estimates ranging from 8% to 30%. While the exact percentage is difficult to ascertain, it is clear that a significant number of Vietnam veterans continue to struggle with the effects of their wartime experiences.
Was Vietnam more traumatic than ww2?
The answer to whether Vietnam War was more traumatic than World War II is subjective and varies depending on different viewpoints. However, it can be argued that Vietnam was more traumatic than the World War II in some aspects.
Firstly, unlike the World War II, which was fought on mostly foreign soil, Vietnam War took place in Vietnam. The long and bloody conflict resulted in a total of 58,000 American deaths and over a million Vietnamese deaths. The deaths, the atrocities committed, and the destruction that took place have left a deep emotional scar.
Secondly, the Vietnam War was unique in that it was the first war which was televised. The graphic images of the war were brought into people’s homes, resulting in unprecedented exposure to the brutality of the conflict. The images of children running from napalm bombs and the death of innocent civilians stirred up deep emotions and sparked anti-war protests across the world.
Thirdly, Vietnam War was a long and protracted conflict that lasted for over a decade. The emotional toll on those who fought in the war, their families, and the country as a whole was immense. Many Americans who served in Vietnam returned home suffering from PTSD and other physical and psychological trauma.
Lastly, the Vietnam War had a bigger impact on the US as a nation compared to the World War II. The US government invested a lot of resources, including manpower, money, and technology in the Vietnam War, but it ultimately ended in a humiliating defeat. The defeat left the country disillusioned and impacted its foreign policy for years to come.
The Vietnam War was more traumatic than the World War II in several ways. The war was fought on Vietnamese soil, was the first televised war, lasted over a decade, and had a profound impact on American society, both socially and politically. While both wars were traumatic, the Vietnam War stands out as one of the darkest moments in American history.
What is the number one cause of death in Vietnam?
The number one cause of death in Vietnam can depend on various factors such as age, gender, and geography. However, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) statistics, the leading cause of death in Vietnam is non-communicable diseases. These diseases are caused by lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption.
The most common non-communicable diseases in Vietnam include cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes.
The prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Vietnam has been increasing significantly in recent years due to various reasons such as urbanization, industrialization, and an aging population. The lack of access to healthcare services in some rural areas and the inadequate distribution of healthcare resources has also contributed to the rise of non-communicable diseases in Vietnam.
Besides non-communicable diseases, communicable diseases such as respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, and infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis also play a significant role in causing mortality in Vietnam.
Furthermore, traffic accidents are also a significant cause of death in Vietnam. Vietnam has one of the highest traffic-related death rates in the world due to inadequate traffic regulations, reckless driving, and inadequate enforcement of road safety measures.
The leading cause of death in Vietnam is non-communicable diseases, followed by communicable diseases, and traffic accidents. It is important to prioritize preventive measures, early detection, and effective treatments of these diseases to reduce the rate of mortality in Vietnam.
How old should a Vietnam vet be today?
The answer to this question will depend on various factors such as the age at which the veteran served in Vietnam, the duration of their service, and their birth year.
The Vietnam War lasted from 1955 to 1975, and United States military involvement began in 1964. Therefore, if a veteran served in Vietnam during the early years of the war, they would be older than someone who served toward the end of the conflict.
Additionally, Vietnam War veterans were typically in their late teens or early twenties when they served. Therefore, a Vietnam veteran who served in the early part of the war would be in their late 70s or early 80s today, while someone who served toward the end of the conflict would be in their late 60s or early 70s.
It is also important to consider the birth year of the veteran. For example, a Vietnam veteran who was born in 1945 and served in the early years of the conflict would be 76 years old in 2021. Similarly, a veteran who was born in 1955 and served toward the end of the conflict would be 66 years old.
The age of a Vietnam veteran today will depend on various factors such as the year in which they served and their birth year. With the war ending in 1975, the youngest Vietnam veteran would be in their mid-60s, while the oldest would be in their late 80s or early 90s.
What are the most common diseases in Vietnam?
Vietnam is a country located in Southeast Asia and its population of over 96 million people are exposed to various diseases that are prevalent in this region. Some of the most common diseases in Vietnam include Dengue fever, malaria, tuberculosis, influenza, hand, foot, and mouth disease, and hepatitis B.
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease that is prevalent in tropical regions like Vietnam. It is a significant public health concern in the country, with thousands of cases reported every year. Its symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, joint and muscle aches, and a rash on the skin.
Malaria is another common disease in Vietnam, which is also transmitted by mosquitoes. It is a life-threatening disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Its symptoms include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. In Vietnam, the northern and central regions have the highest incidence rates of malaria.
Tuberculosis is a bacterial disease that affects the lungs and can be transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is a prevalent disease in Vietnam, and the country has one of the highest TB incidence rates in the world. Its symptoms include persistent coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease that is caused by the influenza virus. Its symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. Influenza tends to be seasonal and is prevalent in Vietnam during the cooler months.
Hand, foot, and mouth disease are viral infections that are common in children in Vietnam. Its symptoms include fever, blisters on the hands and feet, and mouth ulcers. The disease is highly contagious and spreads easily in daycare centers and schools.
Finally, Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and is prevalent in Vietnam due to poor hygiene and unsanitary living conditions. The disease can lead to liver damage, liver cancer, and death if left untreated.
Dengue fever, malaria, tuberculosis, influenza, hand, foot, and mouth disease, and hepatitis B are some of the most common diseases in Vietnam. It is essential for the country’s healthcare system to focus on disease prevention, early detection, and effective treatments to reduce the burden of these diseases on the population.
