The Complexity of Vietnam War Service: Bardains Reflect on Their Experiences
In the annals of American military history, the Vietnam War remains a deeply polarizing and complex chapter. Many Vietnam War veterans, spanning from the early '60s to the late '70s, have expressed a spectrum of feelings regarding their service. This article explores the thoughts of former soldiers who either regret or do not regret their involvement in the Vietnam War, and how these perspectives have evolved over time.
The Complexity of Political Context and Service
Some veterans, like one 91-year-old former pilot, express lifelong satisfaction with their military service. He spent his time as a Cobra Gunship pilot in '69 and '70, lamenting the political decisions that caused his tour to end early and result in the loss of many good friends.
Others, however, find reasons to regret their service. One veteran, drafted in '65, feels deeply that America was not justified in being in Vietnam. He suffered lifelong health issues and has likely compounded feelings of resentment towards the government and the people who did not support him upon his return. This individual's reflections are not unique; many service members have shared similar sentiments of being "screwed" by what they viewed as corrupt and misguided political leaders.
Growth and Reflection in Service
Despite some regrets, many veterans like those who served in the Marine Corps still hold strong positive views of their time in the military. For these soldiers, the experience may have been a defining part of their lives. One Marine, who served in '69 and received two Purple Hearts, views his service with pride, rooted in the personal growth and the values cultivated through his military experience.
However, what these veterans often lament more than the service itself is the lack of recognition and support they received from the government and their communities. Spat upon by protesters, shunned by hometown peers, and neglected by government agencies, the political and social environment profoundly impacted the way veterans were treated post-service. This was especially difficult for those who served in the mid-20th century, living through years of neglect by both the government and the public.
The Legacy of Service: Reflection and Recognition
Many veterans recount that the lack of recognition and support from their country serves as a significant source of regret. The lack of proper recognition from the U.S. government has left many veterans feeling abandoned. This sense of neglect can be seen in the greeting traditionally shared between Vietnam War veterans: "Welcome home brother." This phrase reflects a bond and a regret that the country did not deliver the expected honor, respect, and support they deserved upon returning from the war.
While the decision to engage in the Vietnam War was a matter of political debate, many veterans feel that the experience itself was deeply formative. They believe that the political and social context of their service had a profound impact on them, shaping their views on various issues and leading some to reconsider their initial beliefs about the war. This deep reflection and the resultant change in perspectives remain a constant theme among veterans like those discussed here.
Conclusion: A Call for Acknowledgment
In conclusion, the question of whether an individual regrets their service in the Vietnam War is not a simple one. It largely depends on the context in which the service took place, the political and social environment at the time, and the specific experiences of the individual. While some veterans do not regret serving, many find themselves reflecting on the complex legacy of the war and the subsequent lack of recognition and support. This article serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and supporting the contributions of all veterans, especially those who served during the Vietnam War.