I did 18 months. Tried for 24 but they said it was time for me to go home. I’m 73 now. Retired in 92 with the 82 nd. Yes I would do it again. McNamara and LBJ and Kissinger needed to go to prison for the way they ran this war. Our generals hands were tied on every big power lost a lot of pilots because of the decisions made in the White House. God bless those who survived. We are better men because of it.
Welcome Home Ray. I did 18 months also to get out of the Army. Didn't want to come back and pull stateside duty. I have no regrets about serving my country.
I was 17 years old when I got to Vietnam-1966 through 1969 (My mom had to sign a waiver for me), You could not be drafted under the age of 18 but you could enlist with parents’ signature. I grew up fast and learned a lot, good and bad. (I am now 73 and still learning). I was stationed on the USS Providence and also stationed in Country at a place called "Monkey Mountain" close to DaNang,. I spent 3 tours of duty in and around Vietnam. 3 of my high school friends were killed in Vietnam, I was spared. I participated in the TET Offensive in Feb 1968, that was bad. Somewhere along the way I was exposed to Agent Orange (Nasty Stuff) I am now on disability for the effects of agent orange. When I was discharged and came home to the States we arrived in San Francisco, and there were a lot of protesters spitting on us and throwing rocks and eggs and called us baby killers. That was our welcome home. I tell you this to say to you, that whatever your position is or was on the Vietnam war, it was not the veteran who got us into the war, most of us went because we were patriots and loved our country. Blame the politicians, yes, but not the veteran. To all Vietnam Vets out there, you are not forgotten. As a previous combat Vet myself, I salute you my friend.*************
Well said, I experienced that same protesting when I came home I really never gotten over it but you're right on and thank you for your service and welcome home. and I also dealing with Agent Orange.
I was in Da Nang in 2015. Did a tour of the area and went North. Spent almost a month there. Nam looks so different than in 66-67-68. I was stationed in Cu Chi, 2/27th 25th Inf, I arrived in country after Thanksgiving in 66. Attached to Recon platoon, HQ's Company. I saw the weapons getting heavier as the months went by. Strange how beer was cheaper at the EM Club than soda. Later I having made E-5 I would go to the NCO club. Tough war to fight. we go out to Michelin and Philho Rubber Plantations and clean it up and return to base camp. Several months later do it again. We did that for ever. Lost 120 good men during my time there. I got an early drop and left in Jan of 68. What timing. 12 of us flew back on a C141to the world. Went back to Nam in 2015. Saw some familiar sites and felt many memories come back. RIP my friends. Life changes and your values change but memories like 55 years ago remain. God Bless.
@@wellgreatengineeringltd3884 Your comment about the Michelin Rubber plantation brought back memories. Those plantations housed many North Vietnamese regiments and store houses. We could not bomb there, I was TOLD, because the US government would have to reimburse Michelin for every tree we destroyed. If that "story" was true, it was another quirk of the Vietnam War that, if verified, may someday be recorded...somewhere in the history of that war.
@@vbarbre You veterans need to quit being whiney little girls about the lack of Welcome Home you got from the American public. It came with the territory. You didn't belong there and a lot of you people weren't "choir boys" in Vietnam representing the American people. You know that too. Funny how you complain about the protesters when you should be going crazy about your Government that didn't give a crap about exposing you to Agent Orange. You were chumps and pawns in Vietnam. Focus on that instead of the protesters that saw things more clearly than you. Since you supposedly fought for free speech...as the author I'm going to trust you won't be deleting this comment.
As a young 19 year old trooper who served two tours. Still thinking of my buddies who never made it home. Today is 8/25/2023 and by the grace of God I'm still here at 75 years old..
Makes me cry. Vietnam Era veteran. US Army 1965 to 67. 81 years old now . RIP to those who are gone and Welcome Home to the ones that surrvived. God Bless.
Being a combat soldier with the 25th Infantry I was there in 69 and 70. And I can honestly say that I fought with some of the most bravest men that America could offer. Right or wrong our country asked and we delivered. I am now battling the effects of Agent Orange at the age of 73. Would I do it again? And a heartbeat.....!
As a military family, my hat off to you. And what did trump call wounded veterans and pow's - Losers and Suckers. Well trump as republican since I was 18 - I say - fuck you trump
I just want to say as a veteran who served Vietnam 1969 1971 to all those who forgot about us and turned against us back in those days a lot of us are still here in our 70s and still Kickin !
I am a Marine, served with Golf Co., 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1968-1969. As was already said, bears repeating, I fought with some of the bravest men America had. As I watched this video, the young faces got to me and I began to tear up. We were so young, scared most of the time, trying to survive and come home. There were also good times, I try to focus on those as well. We are all old men now, but still young inside. I am looking forward to my company reunion this September to renew those friendships and share some stories and memories. Semper Fideles, Marines. Welcome Home to all who served!
My brother spent 20 months in Vietnam and was deeply exposed to Agent Orange. He had to have a triple bypass just a few years after returning. He's made it to 75 now and is doing pretty well.
SEMPER FI to all who served,no matter where, when, or branch. From a Retired Marine to all Brother and Sister Warriors Past, Present, and Future. 🇺🇲☝️🙏💑🌟💚
You went to Nam Babies and Came Back Great Men That were Never Shown the Respect, Love, for your sacrifice. Love, Respect, Honor Thank You All veterans We are Proud of you
Yes , It was almost like we were a bunch of highschoolers there. 19 was the average of the casualties . thanks for your appreciation . Doc. 11th Cav 67-68
Kimberly Balogh, You obviously know next to nothing about the Vietnam War. The men who deserve respect are those young draft dodgers who went to Canada and refused to fight against a people who had done their country no harm.
@@Marcfj I know enough my father in law, my best friend were both fought over there. Don't diminish what Our soldiers did. My husband was 3 #'s away from going. Every war has its dodgers but Don't act like you know everything. My friend came back w/ 3 Purple Hearts we did our service.
My husband and I were both 19 at the time Vietnam War. I was so proud of my husband, even though he didn’t come back home to me. ( Gary Billhimer, March 24, 1997 - April 17, 1967 Bing Dinh Vietnam ) 💔
I was a paratrooper with the 173rd Airborne Brigade. I thought I was pretty tough until I listened to the guys dying calling for their mother. Forever changed. . .
Amen to that...my only brother who was ason of an only son served aboard on LST off north Viet mostly and he didn't write much home I wrote him and a buddy of his aboard ship ...we didn't have any of the programs like when my oldest served 3 back to back tour in DESERT Shield then another year 2009 to 2010. ( different unit....1st he came home he had hard time getting job locally because everybody wanted a local guy..( we moved here just as he was getting ready to deploy.) they hired people mostly born or raised here..last time he came home whenever he had uniform on because going to unit in ( still not here) complete strangers thanking him for his service. TIMES CHANGE. ..course we didn't have the anti war crowd blaming people who were drafted...had no choice ect sorry I also knew a few guys from WW2. .today is one of the days I have a few tears running down my cheeks...
I enlisted in the Army in 1965 to go to Vietnam. Served over in Vietnam 1965 and 1966. No one who goes to war ever comes home the same. Some see things that haunt them forever. For others, they do things that haunt them forever. We did our best!! I'm 78 now and sometimes it seems like yesterday.
For others, they do things that haunt them forever . I feel you & deal with it with difficulty . Anxiety is to nice a word …SSgt in marines & Sgt in army in Iraq
America is controlled by the Military Industrial Complex. Which are these blood thirsty RIch. They are making sure there is always a war.never to win again. Afghanistan combat soldiers were treated the same as the Vietnam vets. Soldiers are only for the MIC to make money off dead and mamed soldiers.
Was with the 4th Infantry 1970-71... Still go back some nights. Was an 18yo soldier and turned 19 in Quin Nhon Evac Hospital with shell fragment wounds.
My dad was Korea and Vietnam.. my husband was Vietnam and Desert Storm.. combat medic, boots on the ground.. he had bad dreams forever…. I’m sorry.. , I just did my 20 in peacetime , thanks to all of you
Excellent video. My heart breaks for all casualties in Vietnam. I was there, 68 69 70. I was not a hero, but I know many who were. I do regret that the politicians and leaders did not pay the ultimate price like too many fine young men did.🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
Thank you for your service. My husband was there in 68 in Can Tho. I took him back and arranged a 4 day tour of the area, 50 years and 2 weeks after he left. We had lunch with a Viet Cong. The best treatment for his PTSD (which was very bad) that he ever had.
I was 19, and I am 75 now. I was drafted and became 1A after one year after high school. I cried each time when a Vietnam video is shown on RUclips. The one year duty in Vietnam always haunts me. I visited several times the black wall memorial in Washington DC. Each time , I cried and saluted to the brothers who served together. I was lucky staying alive, but they gave their lives for no reason😅
Vietnam Era veteran, 71-72. Agent Orange disabled at 78. My salute to veterans who served, in particular, Vietnam. There are a few of us still living in their 70s and 80s today. God bless those who are still with us.
I was a police officer in the 1980's and the 1990's. I dealt with several Vietnam vets who had hallucinations of being stalked by the Viet Cong. They had PTSD, but it wasn't called that then. I always wished I had been able to help them more. I still pray for them today. They were treated terribly when they came home. Something all Americans should be ashamed of. I am so glad to see them finally getting the thanks and remembrance they so richly deserve. Thank you for making this video. I thank all the soldiers in this country that have served so we can be free and I honor all those that died doing the same. Land of the free, because of the Brave!🙏🙏🇺🇸
I HAVE A GREAT RESPECT FOR ALL US SOLDIERS, AND SOUTH VIETNAM SOLDIERS. VETERENTS AND THE VICTIMS OF THE VIETNAM WAR. MANY AND MANY THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SERVICES IN SOUTH VIETNAM.
I lost my husband to Agent Orange 3 years and 10 months ago, his funeral was 1 month to the day before turning 70. He was only there a year but long enough to lose friends while there, and his life 50 years later because he chose to serve his country. He did come home to having rotten vegetables, rocks, and other much worse things thrown at him, plus called horrible names. People for the most part were much more respectful the past few years of his life, but then recently on Facebook a man claimed he protested the war during the Vietnam era. Which many did, but what hurt was when he then claimed noone ever disrespected the soldiers that was lies told by the media! I told him he was still being disrespectful to those who served by saying that. How could he not know what was happening as our heroes stepped off the boat as they arrived home in San Francisco. My husband was my hero, my Wyoming Cowboy, my rock. This year has been especially rough as we would have celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary May 11, 2023 and we were going to have the big roaring party everyone gets on that milestone anniversary. One very good thing he never suffered from PTSD and even his Agent Orange issues did not start until 18 months before he passed and his wrist started hurting. It ended up being stage four non smoking lung cancer that went to his bones. He never had lung cancer symptoms, no wheezing, no coughing, raspy voice, nothing. He walked FAST 5 miles every morning before breakfast. I miss him every day.
Sal so sad to hear that. I think for most of us, the hardest part was coming home to an ungrateful country, and being disrespected all these years. What are the reasons I made this video is try to show what we went through. Ill proud we were to be soldiers. Thank you for sharing that and thanks for watching.
I am just not crying, I am bawling. Had to stop to see here. They were my generation's of our finest. I saw the incredible work of the medics, Corpsmen, Nurses, Doctors & phenominal Dustoff teams. We had injured in Tachikawa AFB, Japan within 24 - 48 hours after being hit in field, Nam. My respect & love goes to all who had to go in-country. I was lucky & didn't have to. As a USAF Flight Nurse I had the honor of bringing our guys on their last leg home to Dover AFB in a C141. I met many heroes, thank you.
I will never forget the explosion of Dustoff UH-1H 68-15572 hit by an RPG on 01/15/1971 during your heroic medical evacuation efforts. I see it everyday. You live on in me. RIP SP5 Daniel Cox and SP4 William Malenfant.
When I think back how we were so young and some bad dudes when people look at us day with a little Vietnam hat or shirt all they see is an old man they have no idea what bad dudes we were.
Van barbre, 50 or so yrs ago we were the best America had to offer not like some you see today with their pants hanging down on their butts, yeah we were bad dudes and if pushed today that same bad could come forth maybe not like 50 years ago but the best we could do would be better than a lot you see out there!
I was 17 when my single mom signed the waver... reluctantly.. her being one of those "German WWII brides" and working at BAMC Ft.Sam and seeing the "conditions" of the troops coming home.. tried to warn me of what I was getting into. Didn't join the Fleet til Sep. 1972.. during the "de-escalation", and was just on stand-by off the coast, abord the USS Monticello, LSD 35, until, as you all know, the "peace treaty" was ratified in Mar 73. The year after I got, watching on TV, the cluster fuck that was the evac of Siagon ( my original mission) it slammed me of how stupid lucky I was during my time in. I'm 70, and not a day goes by that I have thanks and gratitude for all the Viet Vets.. exactly like those shown in this flick, who still had it in them to try and mentor us worthless, cherry, FNG's. So come Veterans Day and Memorial Day, I keep my pie hole shut, in silent trubute to them. May God bless all Vietnam Veterans and may you be at peace... you earned it.. so far away and a long time ago. SEMPER FI
God Bless all military personnel who served in Vietnam. Just one more thing. At Hue we had about 6 101st Airborne Soldiers temporarily assigned to our Intelligence Section. I was in the Marines. When those Airborne Soldiers left us they all shook our hands. You talk about class those Airborne Soldiers were fantastic
It's been a while now, but the heat, the jungle, the camaraderie of us marines will be with me forever, semper fi to all that was there, first battalion first marines semper fi. August 1969 February 1971.
Thank for your service..have veterans all way back to French and Indian wars ,Revoluntary, 1812, Civil War Ect my mother father WW1 (his discharge listed Ardennes Forrest ( don't know if spelled correct) Korean, Viet Nam(only brother ) Desert Shied -Storm.(eldest son) then back 2009 to 2010 Enduring Freedom...
56 Years ago today we were 5 days away from arriving in QuiNhon Vietnam via the USNS Upshur, a troop carrier. We arrived on Christmas Eve 1967, convoying to An Khe for our one year tour into the unknown. It seems like yesterday. Welcome home brothers and thank you to all military everywhere past and present.
Im 74 years old I enlisted in the army in 1967 at 17years old. Dropped out of high school. I wanted to go to Vietnam. When I told my high school counselor what I was going to do he told me something that I didn't understand at the time, just too young and dumb. He told me that I may not get a scratch on me but I would be wounded. I didn't understand and dismissed his remarks. Joined the army went to Vietnam in late 1967. May 1 1968 I was wounded it was only shrapnel from a RPG spent 3 weeks in hospital and rejoined my unit. Finished that tour went home. In late 1970 went back to Vietnam for another tour got thru that year just fine or so I thought. Left the army after 6 years service. Few years down the road I realized that I was struggling with things and could not let Vietnam go. That is when I finally understood what my high school counselor was telling me. I finally come to terms with my thoughts and the Vietnam war. Im fine today. Im still glad that I served and would do it again.
Turned 19 in a rice paddy. 1968 with the 82 ABN. Infantry. It left a mark on the rest of my life. Turning 75 in a few days. Hard to believe i made it this far.
Dear vets from World war ll and Vietnam. I am German, but for me you are real heroes. God bless you all, it is not allowed to me to say "Semper Fi". Thank you for your service! USA? Simply the best!
The are heroes, because in WWII they came to Europe and kick the Nazis, they freed Europe. And I know, a lot of rich people payed money, that their sons have not to go to Nam. So many poor and coloured Server in Nam. When they survived and they arrived at they accused them as murderer and other bad words. Thats the reason for me to call them "heroes". Sorry for my bad English.
It struck me during this well-done video...the children, some barely out of their teens carrying the guns of war like it was a baseball bat back home. I'm 74 years old now, but went over at 20 yrs old and back at 21...'69-70. I was one of them then. It was 43 years before I heard a woman in a Safeway parking lot say 'thank you for your service'. I remember that woman to this day. Co. A, 227th AHB, 1st Cavalry.
Dadskrej, I too was just 20, I made this video because of how we were treated when we came back. I never got over how I was called a "baby killer" we went out of our way to keep the kids save as we could. Welcome Home. Tay Ninh 66/67
Thank YOU. I was recognized for my service in late '69 as a private E-2 in transit to Fort Hood when a woman spit on my uniform. I don't know if it was 43 years until I received a sincere thanks, but it was a long time.
My brother in law died last month, he was there. Never talked about it just told the best stories ever. I thanked him but never got a response. Miss him and sorry what he went through
We all went thru a lot and Yes, all of us will die soon. I am 77 now and the last few years have been hard on me. Hope to make it another 20 years, but life is so unfair for some of the best people. God Bless...
I lost my husband, a Vietnam Veteran, last March from cancer. He also suffered from PTSD and could hear a helicopter coming long before it appeared. We were married for 41 years, and I miss him so very much.
Just like many others I was approximately 19 when I deployed to Vietnam. I nearly lost my life three times but by the Grace of God I made it through. I saw men die and at times I remember thinking they were so young with their lives cut short and not being able like me to wed, have children and grandchildren. After all that happened I can truly say to all who served in this or all wars-well done and God bless you and your families.
I was 20 when sent to that hell hole. Infantry. Like you I survived and met a wonderful young woman who helped in the healing process. Felt lots of guilt over the guys that I couldn't save.
Having served in two infantry platoons and two infantry companies with the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade in 1967-68, i thank you for this wonderful tribute to all those that served in Vietnam, no matter their job... especially the Medics, Nurses , Slick Pilots and Crews... and those Door Gunners...
Gary risk By a miracle,did you serve with a small,thin,wiry,Guy,named Rose,last name,was in training with him he served with the Herd 67 68,came off,a Huey,to see me at AnKhe,I was with the 1st Cav! He was from Queens,borough of New York City!Welcome home,trooper!
It's devastating that these men/women were not honored when they returned. Shame to the media for not fore seeing the damage their coverage would cause
not the media's fault, we have to own our failures as a nation to not recognize these beautiful men, no boys. Breaks my heart. When I saw that memorial in Washington, I cried. There was healing there. It was a tumultuous and confusing time in this nation.
Being born in 1961, I was too young for Vietnam, and as a kid didn't really know what was going on there. In my early 20's I started researching the war and read many true accounts of the horrors that men just a few years older than me endured. I am in awe of those who served and feel sorrow for the way they were treated when they came home. Thank you to any one who served and is reading this. You are not forgotten. Welcome Home!
Beautifully done,semper fi and bless all.excellent song....hallelujah friend, ..rest in peace those who did not come home. those who did,bless you all.
I let my wife view this sad video. She cried for the brother KIA in 1967. Even me, a ret US MARINE could not help but start to tear up at her reaction. He was 19 and a really great friend. 1:20
After he passed, I always wondered how a man who sat in the pilot or co-pilot seat of a B-17 for 52 missions could say that the bravest warriors in American history were our guys Vietnam. It made no sense until I heard this version of Halleluiah.. To the Vietnam Veterans, there are no words
We share your loss and sufferings in Vietnam. Our blood and tears were shed together on this land. May the physical and mental injuries of the war continue to subside for all of us. Take comfort in the fact that half of Vietnam was able to breathe free for a couple of decades.THANK YOU for your tremendous sacrifices.
To All of you Vietnam Soldiers that made it Home, THANKYOU for your service ♥ ♥ 🇺🇸 , and I am so glad I got to meet some of you after you returned. For those who didn't make it back alive, May God Bless You and your families 😢 🇺🇸 ♥.
Served in 69 with 3rd battalion 7th Marines in India Co. To all that served and those serving today l salute you and to all those that didn’t make it back to the world you will never be forgotten
My God, we were so young but we grew up so fast. Watching this video I experienced the same emotions I feel when I visit the VietNam Memorial in Washington D.C. Thank you to the person that put this video together. Semper Fi
Two tours both I Corps. Hue and DaNang. . We were soldiers then and we are still soldiers now and will forever be. Some gave some some gave all. God Bless us all . We have been to Hell and back. . But Hell still is real for us. The experiences we all had will never go away. Thank you thank you.
I came from a small rural area. There were two small towns and many farms. There were approximately 30 young men who were draft age during Vietnam. All but three were drafted. I was drafted into the Marines. Two died over there and two killed themselves within a year of coming back. I knew three of them. Its been over 50 years and I still know the faces of those who didn't come home or killed themselves upon returning home. USMC 1969-1971
So sorry for your friends Robert. You know there were just over 2.7 million of us who served there and they say there is only 600,000 of us left. Welcome Home.
I enlisted in Feb. 1971 with my best friend on the buddy system but at San Fran he went on a Destroyer and I went on the Kitty Hawk out to sea to my boat the USS Paul Revere LPA 248 , did 2 tours (6 months each) at Westpac/ Tonkin Gulf. Got out in Feb. 1973, what a ride. My buddy made it home but over dosed on heroin in 1974. I would do it again under the right circumstances!! Those were the greatest years of my life, in my 20's and I am now 72. God Bless America...✌
Beautiful tribute to our unsung heroes! Had 2 brothers in Vietnam ‘69-‘71. Marine Corp. & Army. Both made it back, both earned Purple Hearts. Would love the lyrics & artist who sings the Hallelujah. She did an amazing job singing it. 👏🏻👏🏻🙏🏼💕💕
The 1960's and early 70's were extraordinary and turbulent times to have lived through the Vietnam conflict divided this country (United States) over what it means to be patriotic sadly the returning Vietnam Vets took the blunt of the anger felt by the folks back here in America over handling of our Vietnam policy. To all of our Vietnam Vets thank you for you service and sacrifice during the Vietnam conflict and welcome home I dedicate these two songs by SSgt Barry Sadler from his 1966 record album Ballads of the Green Berets to all of our Vietnam Vets the men and women who severed our country during the Vietnam conflict. "I'm a Lucky One" SSgt Barry Sadler I'm going home, my tour is done I'm going home, I'm a lucky one But I left friends behind me Who won't come home no more Yes many friends remain forever On that bloody shore But at night when I sleep, I know my dreams will be About my friends I left across the sea I'll here verbal young men harn, laugh again out loud We'll all be together in a happy crowd But then I hear the sound of bullets whining overhead Feel the crash of morters and all my friends are dead My friends they fought and gave their all My friends they died for freedoms call As my dream was ending, they'll come and say goodbye Though I'm sound asleep a tear I'll cry And they say something which fills my heart with pain Tell them about us Sadler, don't let us die in vain I'm going home, my tour is done I'm going home, I'm a lucky one "Salute to the Nurses" SSgt Barry Sadler After the battle after the fight many owe their lives to the ladies and men in white And all of the men in this war torn land salute the nurses of Vietnam They know the awful toll of war each day they know more than any the price we pay A soldier his hands too burned to write a nurse takes down his words through the lonely night They have gone to the front where men fought in the night from Pleiku to Qui Nhon where war these men fight Many a wounded soldier pain is eased for a while by opening his eyes to see a nurses smile To each of the wounded on the operating shelf these nurses give a part of themselves I know every soldier to the last man will sometimes say a prayer for the nurses of Vietnam After the battle after the fight many owe their lives to the ladies and men in white And all of the men in this war torn land salute the nurses of Vietnam.
I was drafted and enlisted in the army. I was in Vietnam 1969-70 and this song (heard several years after) and it brings back very solemn memories. I thank all others who honorably served our country. This is a very sacred song.
Nice tribute & songs, a very, very, very, long overdue WELCOME HOME TO ALL OF THEM! I worked with several Nam vets when I was in, one guy was even Korea & Nam. They were all a great group people and I consider myself fortunate to have worked with them & learned from them. Many in my family have served, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam. Thanks to all now serving, those who have, and those who will in the future. FLY NAVY!!!
Lots of my friends in Nam were Medics. I will never forget there care of the dead and wounded and the good times in base camp. its been 55 years now since i finished my 2nd trip there. I just felt we lost control at the end of my second trip just before Tet. I went back to Nam in 2015. Wasn't the same but some of the relics of war remained. Brought back many memories. God be with us All. God Bless...
I was sent on the first build up in 1965, fresh out of college with my whole life in front of me. What a shock it truely was ! My family never knew I was there, as far as they were concerned I was stationed in Germany.
I don't think anyone can watch this without shedding some tears. Our young boys were such brave soldiers and did so for their country. Thank you and God bless you.
You didn't deserve the hell you went through. I'm sooo very proud of you for what you did for your country. I love all of you you're my heroes. Thank you for your service and sacrifices God Bless you, America and your families 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Dedicated to the memory of my dear friend, Jon Holden, who served with the 101st Airborne in Vietnam in 1968. Jon was awarded the Silver Star for valor and the Purple Heart for wounds he sustained while serving as a combat infantryman. Jon was a true American hero and a great guy. He didn't die in the war, but it killed him just the same.
I understand. My dad came home from this war in 1971 and I was his first born son in 1979. Sometimes I think it would have been easier if he had died there. It certainly killed his humanity. I remember the numerous times I'd be getting the belt for some trifle thing and the rage that he was venting on me. Beating me until I'd pissed my pants and then more for doing so, had nothing to do with whatever I'd done. He was trying to beat whatever evil lived in him. He never drank or did drugs. I remember walking up to him screaming in his sleep. He died five years ago. I was glad for him. Probably the first peaceful sleep he's had in fifty years.
@@michaelfrench3396 Michael, You caught my meaning exactly. Sorry for all the damage inflicted upon you growing up. At the very least you understand where all the rage came from - you weren't to blame... it was the war. There are thousands and thousands of names on the Vietnam Memorial (The Wall) in Washington D.C. but that doesn't even begin to tell the story. There are also thousands and thousands of other casualties (and their families) whose names aren't on The Wall, but certainly deserve to be. As you well know, for many, many vets the war didn't end when they boarded that Freedom Bird bound for home - the struggle was just beginning. Hope you are able to find a measure of peace. ✌
LOL 101st?? He had to volunteer for that. He was an idiot. He could have served his country nice and safe in the states or in Germany but no. He wanged to be ahero.
@@michaelwhisman Michael, You could not possibly be more misinformed - or stupid. Germany? 😳 Stateside? 😳 Buddy, Jon was DRAFTED right at the very height of the Vietnam War. His chances of going to Germany, Korea, Tahiti, or remaining in CONUS were about the same as purchasing a billion dollar lottery ticket - i.e. non-existent. As a 2-year draftee, 99.8% of the troops ar that time following basic training and AIT were sent to Vietnam with an 11 Bravo MOS - combat infantry! Jon volunteered for airborne training so that he wouldn't have to serve with a straight leg infantry unit. A very wise decision because the airborne soldiers were better trained and had their shit together. They also had better company grade officers. The regular infantry was totally fucked up with often inexperienced and incompetent officers - and grunts who didn't want to be there in the first place. Jon wanted to volunteer for Special Forces (Green Beret) but refused to extend for an additional year. Jon did not desire to be a hero - but he became one nonetheless. He returned from the war a highly decorated veteran. The key here is that he did RERURN home. Idiot? Hardly.... if he had taken his chances as a straight leg grunt, he probably wouldn't have returned at all. Almost all the guys on the Wall were regular 11 Bravos. Germany? My ass!
@@michaelwhisman Flush out your head gear, buddy! Jon was DRAFTED at the height of the Vietnam War - and the Army (especially the infantry) needed as many replacements as it could get. Germany? 😳 CONUS? 😳 Are you crazy? Almost all draftees at that time were sent to Vietnam with an 11 Bravo MOS - combat infantryman. Jon volunteered for airborne training so that he could serve with the best - not some fucked up straight leg unit. Smart move! Being with an airborne unit greatly enhanced his chances of coming home alive. Those sky troopers were well trained, well disciplined, and extremely motivated. They were also well led by junior officers. The regular, straight leg grunts were almost all draftees and didn't give a shit. They were poorly trained and poorly led. Most of the names on The Wall in D.C. represent these poor fuckers who were just 18 - 19 year old kids who didn't stand a chance. Idiotic? On the contrary... Jon served with distinction and never aspired to be a hero. His Silver Star and Purple Heart speak for themselves. In closing, I ask that you have a little respect for the people who did their duty. Was it a fucked up war? Absolutely!!!! But the blame belongs squarely on the shoulders of politicians - and not the men and women who served there. To make matters even worse, the guys who returned were treated like shit. I see the trend continues.
I'm 79 now and served Dec 1966 to Dec 1967. I salute all who served in Vietnam. Too many good people didn't come home. And some are still dying from that war.
yep, they're still dying, it's a heart breaker every time I get word that another buddy has passed,, thanks for your service and welcome home,, Bearcat 68-69
Here I am 52 years later still feeling guilty about not having to go to Vietman..Lost some childhood friends in Vietnam..I did a 2 enlistment and was ashamed for years to tell people that I served..I am finally able to be proud to say I served...God Bless all the people that took the oath and laid their life on the line for our freedom!!!
This video moved me. It brought to surface emotions that I thought were lost. The lyrics and the pictures are spot on for what most of us endured while in Vietnam. Some of the battle pictures I could recognize and relate to. The shoulder patch of the 173rd was worn proudly and is displayed equally as proud in my home, some 57 years later. Thank you to all who served. Thank you to all the branches of service and to all the support units. Because of all of you, I was able to make it home.
I did 18 months. Tried for 24 but they said it was time for me to go home. I’m 73 now. Retired in 92 with the 82 nd. Yes I would do it again. McNamara and LBJ and Kissinger needed to go to prison for the way they ran this war. Our generals hands were tied on every big power lost a lot of pilots because of the decisions made in the White House. God bless those who survived. We are better men because of it.
You are right on Ray. Welcome Home, and thanks for watching the video.
Ray thanks for fighting for me. Welcome home and never forget you a warrior and my war hero. Love you brother hope you got to live a good life.
Welcome Home Ray. I did 18 months also to get out of the Army. Didn't want to come back and pull stateside duty. I have no regrets about serving my country.
Yep
We were all hard chargers
If you are a Vietnam veteran and you stumble across this video, please know many have and will continue to, pray for you! 🌺✝️🌺
Thank you means everything from a Vietnam veteran and his wife never give up !!! Never quit!!!🇺🇸🇺🇲🇺🇲
Thank you, In His Name.
Thank you.
Thank you and God bless you
❤️🙏🏻
I was 17 years old when I got to Vietnam-1966 through 1969 (My mom had to sign a waiver for me), You could not be drafted under the age of 18 but you could enlist with parents’ signature. I grew up fast and learned a lot, good and bad. (I am now 73 and still learning). I was stationed on the USS Providence and also stationed in Country at a place called "Monkey Mountain" close to DaNang,. I spent 3 tours of duty in and around Vietnam. 3 of my high school friends were killed in Vietnam, I was spared. I participated in the TET Offensive in Feb 1968, that was bad. Somewhere along the way I was exposed to Agent Orange (Nasty Stuff) I am now on disability for the effects of agent orange. When I was discharged and came home to the States we arrived in San Francisco, and there were a lot of protesters spitting on us and throwing rocks and eggs and called us baby killers. That was our welcome home. I tell you this to say to you, that whatever your position is or was on the Vietnam war, it was not the veteran who got us into the war, most of us went because we were patriots and loved our country. Blame the politicians, yes, but not the veteran. To all Vietnam Vets out there, you are not forgotten. As a previous combat Vet myself, I salute you my friend.*************
Well said, I experienced that same protesting when I came home I really never gotten over it but you're right on and thank you for your service and welcome home. and I also dealing with Agent Orange.
I was in Da Nang in 2015. Did a tour of the area and went North. Spent almost a month there. Nam looks so different than in 66-67-68. I was stationed in Cu Chi, 2/27th 25th Inf, I arrived in country after Thanksgiving in 66. Attached to Recon platoon, HQ's Company. I saw the weapons getting heavier as the months went by. Strange how beer was cheaper at the EM Club than soda. Later I having made E-5 I would go to the NCO club. Tough war to fight. we go out to Michelin and Philho Rubber Plantations and clean it up and return to base camp. Several months later do it again. We did that for ever. Lost 120 good men during my time there. I got an early drop and left in Jan of 68. What timing. 12 of us flew back on a C141to the world. Went back to Nam in 2015. Saw some familiar sites and felt many memories come back. RIP my friends. Life changes and your values change but memories like 55 years ago remain. God Bless.
Thanks for sharing that Denny, and Welcome Home
@@wellgreatengineeringltd3884 Your comment about the Michelin Rubber plantation brought back memories. Those plantations housed many North Vietnamese regiments and store houses. We could not bomb there, I was TOLD, because the US government would have to reimburse Michelin for every tree we destroyed. If that "story" was true, it was another quirk of the Vietnam War that, if verified, may someday be recorded...somewhere in the history of that war.
@@vbarbre You veterans need to quit being whiney little girls about the lack of Welcome Home you got from the American public. It came with the territory. You didn't belong there and a lot of you people weren't "choir boys" in Vietnam representing the American people. You know that too. Funny how you complain about the protesters when you should be going crazy about your Government that didn't give a crap about exposing you to Agent Orange. You were chumps and pawns in Vietnam. Focus on that instead of the protesters that saw things more clearly than you.
Since you supposedly fought for free speech...as the author I'm going to trust you won't be deleting this comment.
As a young 19 year old trooper who served two tours. Still thinking of my buddies who never made it home. Today is 8/25/2023 and by the grace of God I'm still here at 75 years old..
Hello brother I was only 20 in Nam now I am age 71 still a mess from Nam.Semper Fi.
Thank you for your service Sir.
@@Jeffd34006 Thank You Sir. ❤❤
66-70 Welcome Home !
@@davidtelliho5043 Semper Fi ❤❤
Makes me cry. Vietnam Era veteran. US Army 1965 to 67. 81 years old now . RIP to those who are gone and Welcome Home to the ones that surrvived. God Bless.
Thanks for you comments and thanks for watching and your services
thank you
They did not have to fight and die. What did they die for?
Tell us all what you fought for and what they died for.
Being a combat soldier with the 25th Infantry I was there in 69 and 70. And I can honestly say that I fought with some of the most bravest men that America could offer. Right or wrong our country asked and we delivered. I am now battling the effects of Agent Orange at the age of 73. Would I do it again? And a heartbeat.....!
Well said Michel and Welcome Home
Welcome home brother grunt,3/22 inf ,25th ,1969-70
Welcome Home.
So sorry about the Agent Orange I hope you win this battle. I found 20 years ago and won (so far) Welcome Home
@@smokinjoe711 Thanks Smokin Joe
Vietnam veteran and damn proud of it! 1968- '69 , one of the last forgotten soldiers!
♥️🇺🇲♥️ Never will be Forgotten....🇺🇲🇺🇲
1967 -68 We worked hard for this country. U.S.A. You got to love it.Hope the people north of Richmond dont lose it?
As a military family, my hat off to you. And what did trump call wounded veterans and pow's - Losers and Suckers. Well trump as republican since I was 18 - I say - fuck you trump
Kevin Quinn 101st airborne Infantry. 68/69. We seen hell and still came back. What a f.....g wreck.
I wa s there during that time.
I am a Vietnam. 1966--1967. It was hell but God spared me I was 19. Proud to have served
My bro Bobby O'Brien, 9/66-9/67 Laos and Cambodia and Pleiku.
82nd, 5th.
Thank you ❤️🇺🇲
Marinemomof3
I'm 75+ Years old still cry when I see this
God bless you all who have served ❤
Thanks to all
I'm 70 and signed up in 72 and served it out in the 3rd of the 16th FA 8th↑ Division.
I came back to a different world.
Id cry too if I was a moron.
I just want to say as a veteran who served Vietnam 1969 1971 to all those who forgot about us and turned against us back in those days a lot of us are still here in our 70s and still Kickin !
I am a Marine, served with Golf Co., 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1968-1969. As was already said, bears repeating, I fought with some of the bravest men America had. As I watched this video, the young faces got to me and I began to tear up. We were so young, scared most of the time, trying to survive and come home. There were also good times, I try to focus on those as well. We are all old men now, but still young inside. I am looking forward to my company reunion this September to renew those friendships and share some stories and memories. Semper Fideles, Marines. Welcome Home to all who served!
I was with Comm Plt H&S 1st of the 5th 1975 to 1979 then was VMFA-112 NAS Dallas 1980 to 1987 Reserves
1st Marine Division let's go
Well said Tom. Welcome Home and thanks for watching.
Comadery in combat IS the USMC!!. HOTEL 2/5/ 1ST MARINES, VIETNAM '68. 0331 - machinegun 👍👍👍 7:58 machinegun
SEMPER Fi Brother And Welcome Home !!!!!!
My brother was there and when he came home he was never the same. I lost him last month at 73. RIP Jim, we loved you so much!
That was me
My brother was there and when he came home he was not the same
He was different my brother was kill after the Nam war
My brother spent 20 months in Vietnam and was deeply exposed to Agent Orange. He had to have a triple bypass just a few years after returning. He's made it to 75 now and is doing pretty well.
Janice I'm sorry you lost your brother Jim. I'm 76 and the time I was in Vietnam seems like it was just yesterday.
RIP Jim.....we have the watch..
Much Respect to all of you, he was a Great Guy and an Even better Big Brother ❤️.
I did 12 months and never cried hallelujah. I sure as hell cried when I heard someone cry for his mama
I love this video. It makes me cry every day
SEMPER FI to all who served,no matter where, when, or branch. From a Retired Marine to all Brother and Sister Warriors Past, Present, and Future. 🇺🇲☝️🙏💑🌟💚
Semper Fi to ypu Robert and thanks for watching
God Bless You❣️
Thank you Robert and Semper Fi.
Msgt. Ret. Semper Fi Robert. 69 Danang.
@@jameseast7966 1975 to 1987 Sgt 1st of the Mighty 5th. My Dad Master Gunny 1/1 WW2, Korea Vet SEMPER FI Brother 🇺🇲
You went to Nam Babies and Came Back Great Men That were Never Shown the Respect, Love, for your sacrifice. Love, Respect, Honor Thank You All veterans We are Proud of you
Thank you very much that was very special
Thanks 🇺🇸
Yes , It was almost like we were a bunch of highschoolers there. 19 was the average of the casualties . thanks for your appreciation . Doc. 11th Cav 67-68
Kimberly Balogh, You obviously know next to nothing about the Vietnam War. The men who deserve respect are those young draft dodgers who went to Canada and refused to fight against a people who had done their country no harm.
@@Marcfj I know enough my father in law, my best friend were both fought over there. Don't diminish what Our soldiers did. My husband was 3 #'s away from going. Every war has its dodgers but Don't act like you know everything. My friend came back w/ 3 Purple Hearts we did our service.
From the few of us that are left, THANK YOU!
They say there is only 600.000 still around.
Your welcome!!!
My God we are a passing breed !
My husband and I were both 19 at the time Vietnam War. I was so proud of my husband, even though he didn’t come back home to me. ( Gary Billhimer, March 24, 1997 - April 17, 1967 Bing Dinh Vietnam ) 💔
You broke my heart Emma, so sorry for your lost.
I am so sorry for your loss!
❤🫡🙏🕊️🇦🇺🙏
Hugs and Love to you Dear I was never the same after Nam an old man now age 71
Sorry.🌹🇦🇺ex soldier
I am a veteran of Vietnam and I salute you every one who served and every soldier of Vietnam god bless youall
Welcome home bro
@@alan-ev6ck thankyou brother, veterans are and always will be number #1 in my heart
i was there in `68/69 ......i am still with you !
@@sydsurfman012 hey surf man welcome home brother god bless you
I was a paratrooper with the 173rd Airborne Brigade. I thought I was pretty tough until I listened to the guys dying calling for their mother. Forever changed. . .
My aunt was an army nurse in WW2 with Mark Clark’s army. She tells the same story. The sobbing at night was very hard to take she said.
I pray that the men that died are at peace with the Lord Amen 🙏🇦🇺🍀🦋🐞
Amen to that
Amen to that...my only brother who was ason of an only son served aboard on LST off north Viet mostly and he didn't write much home I wrote him and a buddy of his aboard ship ...we didn't have any of the programs like when my oldest served 3 back to back tour in DESERT Shield then another year 2009 to 2010. ( different unit....1st he came home he had hard time getting job locally because everybody wanted a local guy..( we moved here just as he was getting ready to deploy.) they hired people mostly born or raised here..last time he came home whenever he had uniform on because going to unit in ( still not here) complete strangers thanking him for his service. TIMES CHANGE. ..course we didn't have the anti war crowd blaming people who were drafted...had no choice ect
sorry I also knew a few guys from WW2. .today is one of the days I have a few tears running down my cheeks...
I enlisted in the Army in 1965 to go to Vietnam. Served over in Vietnam 1965 and 1966. No one who goes to war ever comes home the same. Some see things that haunt them forever. For others, they do things that haunt them forever. We did our best!!
I'm 78 now and sometimes it seems like yesterday.
So true. I dont trust americans. In my opion they are hypocrites. Two face.
Thank You Sir for your service and sacrifice..
Welcome home sir. I spent 20 yrs in but a generation behind you.
For others, they do things that haunt them forever . I feel you & deal with it with difficulty . Anxiety is to nice a word …SSgt in marines & Sgt in army in Iraq
America is controlled by the Military Industrial Complex. Which are these blood thirsty RIch. They are making sure there is always a war.never to win again. Afghanistan combat soldiers were treated the same as the Vietnam vets. Soldiers are only for the MIC to make money off dead and mamed soldiers.
Wonderful Tribute I am 91 Korean War Vet God Bless Us All
I am one of the girls who was at home waiting and praying for are guys ❤🇺🇸
God Bless Emma for doing that and thanks for watching
Thank you Emma. That's nice to hear even 54 years later for me.
Was with the 4th Infantry 1970-71... Still go back some nights. Was an 18yo soldier and turned 19 in Quin Nhon Evac Hospital with shell fragment wounds.
I hear you, Welcome Home
That nurse at 7:11... If there were unsung heroes of the entire war, the nurses should be first on the list. Bless them all.
You're right Glen they sure were. Thanks for watching
Today is the day 55 years ago that my dad returned home from vietnam. He is and always will be MY HERO ❤❤❤❤
That's for sure, tell him Welcome HOME
@@vbarbre thank you !!!
@@crystalreal3479 Your Welcome
Welcome home brother in arms
I returned home on crutches. My father told me not to come back unless I called first. what did we share, Alcoholism.
My dad was Korea and Vietnam..
my husband was Vietnam and Desert Storm.. combat medic, boots on the ground.. he had bad dreams forever…. I’m sorry.. , I just did my 20 in peacetime , thanks to all of you
I served with the Americal Division 196th Light Infantry 68/69. God Bless ALL who served !!!
Excellent video. My heart breaks for all casualties in Vietnam.
I was there, 68 69 70. I was not a hero, but I know many who were.
I do regret that the politicians and leaders did not pay the ultimate price like too many fine young men did.🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
Thank you for your service, I appreciate your sacrifices
Thank you for your service. My husband was there in 68 in Can Tho. I took him back and arranged a 4 day tour of the area, 50 years and 2 weeks after he left. We had lunch with a Viet Cong. The best treatment for his PTSD (which was very bad) that he ever had.
Why so long?? Are you stupid??
I was 19, and I am 75 now. I was drafted and became 1A after one year after high school. I cried each time when a Vietnam video is shown on RUclips. The one year duty in Vietnam always haunts me. I visited several times the black wall memorial in Washington DC. Each time , I cried and saluted to the brothers who served together. I was lucky staying alive, but they gave their lives for no reason😅
Welcome Home Bill, Every time I been to the Wall I have the same feeling. Thanks for watching
What unit were you in?
😢❤All I can say Thank You 😭
@@boondocker7964 The 550th Ordnance last station with the 25th at Tay Ninh 66/67
@@JeanetteDunivin Thanks for watching, and thank you.
When men When men....with honor and dignity....strength and courage..and a real love for country....God bless them all❤❤❤
Amen to that Lady, and thanks for watching
Semper Fi! 73…75
Thank you for the beautiful and powerful tribute….
Welcome home my brothers..👍🏽🇺🇸
Semper Fi JP and Welcome Home. 66/67
@@vbarbre ❤️
Vietnam Era veteran, 71-72. Agent Orange disabled at 78. My salute to veterans who served, in particular, Vietnam. There are a few of us still living in their 70s and 80s today. God bless those who are still with us.
I was a police officer in the 1980's and the 1990's. I dealt with several Vietnam vets who had hallucinations of being stalked by the Viet Cong. They had PTSD, but it wasn't called that then. I always wished I had been able to help them more. I still pray for them today. They were treated terribly when they came home. Something all Americans should be ashamed of. I am so glad to see them finally getting the thanks and remembrance they so richly deserve. Thank you for making this video. I thank all the soldiers in this country that have served so we can be free and I honor all those that died doing the same. Land of the free, because of the Brave!🙏🙏🇺🇸
I HAVE A GREAT RESPECT FOR ALL US SOLDIERS, AND SOUTH VIETNAM SOLDIERS.
VETERENTS AND THE VICTIMS OF THE VIETNAM WAR.
MANY AND MANY THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SERVICES IN SOUTH VIETNAM.
Thank you, that means a lot.
Your welcome!
I lost my husband to Agent Orange 3 years and 10 months ago, his funeral was 1 month to the day before turning 70. He was only there a year but long enough to lose friends while there, and his life 50 years later because he chose to serve his country. He did come home to having rotten vegetables, rocks, and other much worse things thrown at him, plus called horrible names.
People for the most part were much more respectful the past few years of his life, but then recently on Facebook a man claimed he protested the war during the Vietnam era. Which many did, but what hurt was when he then claimed noone ever disrespected the soldiers that was lies told by the media! I told him he was still being disrespectful to those who served by saying that. How could he not know what was happening as our heroes stepped off the boat as they arrived home in San Francisco. My husband was my hero, my Wyoming Cowboy, my rock.
This year has been especially rough as we would have celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary May 11, 2023 and we were going to have the big roaring party everyone gets on that milestone anniversary.
One very good thing he never suffered from PTSD and even his Agent Orange issues did not start until 18 months before he passed and his wrist started hurting. It ended up being stage four non smoking lung cancer that went to his bones. He never had lung cancer symptoms, no wheezing, no coughing, raspy voice, nothing. He walked FAST 5 miles every morning before breakfast. I miss him every day.
Sal so sad to hear that. I think for most of us, the hardest part was coming home to an ungrateful country, and being disrespected all these years. What are the reasons I made this video is try to show what we went through. Ill proud we were to be soldiers. Thank you for sharing that and thanks for watching.
those that disrespected him then, runs our nation today@@vbarbre
So true@@rodread1531
I am just not crying, I am bawling. Had to stop to see here. They were my generation's of our finest. I saw the incredible work of the medics, Corpsmen, Nurses, Doctors & phenominal Dustoff teams. We had injured in Tachikawa AFB, Japan within 24 - 48 hours after being hit in field, Nam. My respect & love goes to all who had to go in-country. I was lucky & didn't have to. As a USAF Flight Nurse I had the honor of bringing our guys on their last leg home to Dover AFB in a C141. I met many heroes, thank you.
Deepest respect for your service..you all were real angels to your patients!!
Carole, many thanks for taking care of us, you are our hero. God Bless you
I will never forget the explosion of Dustoff UH-1H 68-15572 hit by an RPG on 01/15/1971 during your heroic medical evacuation efforts. I see it everyday. You live on in me.
RIP SP5 Daniel Cox and SP4 William Malenfant.
God Bless you Carolcarr
God bless you.
Another lifetime. Can't believe its been fifty years.
When I think back how we were so young and some bad dudes when people look at us day with a little Vietnam hat or shirt all they see is an old man they have no idea what bad dudes we were.
A big thank you, to you both. I missed the war by a year, but had friends who suffered since then.
Thank you.
Van barbre, 50 or so yrs ago we were the best America had to offer not like some you see today with their pants hanging down on their butts, yeah we were bad dudes and if pushed today that same bad could come forth maybe not like 50 years ago but the best we could do would be better than a lot you see out there!
Copy that.
This mother of six sons is utterly heartbroken at those young, young faces. Rest in peace, young warriors.
Thanks for sharing
I was 17 when my single mom signed the waver... reluctantly.. her being one of those "German WWII brides" and working at BAMC Ft.Sam and seeing the "conditions" of the troops coming home.. tried to warn me of what I was getting into. Didn't join the Fleet til Sep. 1972.. during the "de-escalation", and was just on stand-by off the coast, abord the USS Monticello, LSD 35, until, as you all know, the "peace treaty" was ratified in Mar 73. The year after I got, watching on TV, the cluster fuck that was the evac of Siagon ( my original mission) it slammed me of how stupid lucky I was during my time in. I'm 70, and not a day goes by that I have thanks and gratitude for all the Viet Vets.. exactly like those shown in this flick, who still had it in them to try and mentor us worthless, cherry, FNG's. So come Veterans Day and Memorial Day, I keep my pie hole shut, in silent trubute to them. May God bless all Vietnam Veterans and may you be at peace... you earned it.. so far away and a long time ago. SEMPER FI
God Bless all military personnel who served in Vietnam. Just one more thing. At Hue we had about 6 101st Airborne Soldiers temporarily assigned to our Intelligence Section. I was in the Marines. When those Airborne Soldiers left us they all shook our hands. You talk about class those Airborne Soldiers were fantastic
Welcome Home Wallace and thanks for watching
Thank you. I'm 75 now and my time in the Marine Corps and Vietnam seems like it was yesterday. God Bless.
It's been a while now, but the heat, the jungle, the camaraderie of us marines will be with me forever, semper fi to all that was there, first battalion first marines semper fi. August 1969 February 1971.
Semper Russell, Welcome Home and thanks for watching
Semper FI Brother 1/9-3/9 third Recon
Thank for your service..have veterans all way back to French and Indian wars ,Revoluntary, 1812, Civil War Ect my mother father WW1 (his discharge listed Ardennes Forrest ( don't know if spelled correct) Korean, Viet Nam(only brother ) Desert Shied -Storm.(eldest son) then back 2009 to 2010 Enduring Freedom...
56 Years ago today we were 5 days away from arriving in QuiNhon Vietnam via the USNS Upshur, a troop carrier. We arrived on Christmas Eve 1967, convoying to An Khe for our one year tour into the unknown. It seems like yesterday. Welcome home brothers and thank you to all military everywhere past and present.
My brother served with the 4th armored in An Khe
Im 74 years old I enlisted in the army in 1967 at 17years old. Dropped out of high school. I wanted to go to Vietnam. When I told my high school counselor what I was going to do he told me something that I didn't understand at the time, just too young and dumb. He told me that I may not get a scratch on me but I would be wounded. I didn't understand and dismissed his remarks. Joined the army went to Vietnam in late 1967. May 1 1968 I was wounded it was only shrapnel from a RPG spent 3 weeks in hospital and rejoined my unit. Finished that tour went home. In late 1970 went back to Vietnam for another tour got thru that year just fine or so I thought. Left the army after 6 years service. Few years down the road I realized that I was struggling with things and could not let Vietnam go. That is when I finally understood what my high school counselor was telling me. I finally come to terms with my thoughts and the Vietnam war. Im fine today. Im still glad that I served and would do it again.
♥️🇺🇸 Lost my first Love in 1968...He has a Special place in my Heart ...Always..♥️
Thanks for sharing that sorry for your lost.
Turned 19 in a rice paddy. 1968 with the 82 ABN. Infantry.
It left a mark on the rest of my life.
Turning 75 in a few days.
Hard to believe i made it this far.
Dear vets from World war ll and Vietnam. I am German, but for me you are real heroes. God bless you all, it is not allowed to me to say "Semper Fi". Thank you for your service! USA? Simply the best!
Thank you and thanks for watching
Heroes in what way?? Tell me why the war was fought??
The are heroes, because in WWII they came to Europe and kick the Nazis, they freed Europe. And I know, a lot of rich people payed money, that their sons have not to go to Nam. So many poor and coloured Server in Nam. When they survived and they arrived at they accused them as murderer and other bad words. Thats the reason for me to call them "heroes". Sorry for my bad English.
A great tribute to all the American boys who served 👏 our country.
THANK YOU!!!
That is what I was trying to do was honor them, thanks for watching
...and girls.
@@afrhspook Yes lets to forget them.
And American girls also
It struck me during this well-done video...the children, some barely out of their teens carrying the guns of war like it was a baseball bat back home. I'm 74 years old now, but went over at 20 yrs old and back at 21...'69-70. I was one of them then. It was 43 years before I heard a woman in a Safeway parking lot say 'thank you for your service'. I remember that woman to this day. Co. A, 227th AHB, 1st Cavalry.
Dadskrej, I too was just 20, I made this video because of how we were treated when we came back. I never got over how I was called a "baby killer" we went out of our way to keep the kids save as we could. Welcome Home. Tay Ninh 66/67
Thank you for your service 🙏🏼
RP2, USN
Thank YOU. I was recognized for my service in late '69 as a private E-2 in transit to Fort Hood when a woman spit on my uniform. I don't know if it was 43 years until I received a sincere thanks, but it was a long time.
@@KnockOut242 Thanks
@@leighlockwood858 I think that was the worst part coming home to an welcome like that.
My brother in law died last month, he was there. Never talked about it just told the best stories ever. I thanked him but never got a response. Miss him and sorry what he went through
We all went thru a lot and Yes, all of us will die soon. I am 77 now and the last few years have been hard on me. Hope to make it another 20 years, but life is so unfair for some of the best people. God Bless...
My brother served in Vietnam, but he came home safely. He died about three years ago. He was my friend.
I lost my husband, a Vietnam Veteran, last March from cancer. He also suffered from PTSD and could hear a helicopter coming long before it appeared. We were married for 41 years, and I miss him so very much.
Just like many others I was approximately 19 when I deployed to Vietnam. I nearly lost my life three times but by the Grace of God I made it through. I saw men die and at times I remember thinking they were so young with their lives cut short and not being able like me to wed, have children and grandchildren. After all that happened I can truly say to all who served in this or all wars-well done and God bless you and your families.
I was 20 when sent to that hell hole. Infantry. Like you I survived and met a wonderful young woman who helped in the healing process. Felt lots of guilt over the guys that I couldn't save.
Having served in two infantry platoons and two infantry companies with the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade in 1967-68, i thank you for this wonderful tribute to all those that served in Vietnam, no matter their job... especially the Medics, Nurses , Slick Pilots and Crews... and those Door Gunners...
Welcome Home Gary and thanks for your serviced and thanks for watching
Gary risk By a miracle,did you serve with a small,thin,wiry,Guy,named Rose,last name,was in training with him he served with the Herd 67 68,came off,a Huey,to see me at AnKhe,I was with the 1st Cav! He was from Queens,borough of New York City!Welcome home,trooper!
@@tomfilipiak3511 Yes... see my comment ablove... I was in both Charlie and Delta Company... yes I served with Rose...
73 now; i was 19 when i went over there; 69-70.........one never forgets. Thank you for the music.
a brother respect 54 years
It's devastating that these men/women were not honored when they returned. Shame to the media for not fore seeing the damage their coverage would cause
Thanks for those kind words Jillian. It still eats away at me all these year later.
The media only concern was the Benjamins, just like the government.
not the media's fault, we have to own our failures as a nation to not recognize these beautiful men, no boys. Breaks my heart. When I saw that memorial in Washington, I cried. There was healing there. It was a tumultuous and confusing time in this nation.
Tribute to all who served but not the politicians. Stay strong. God bless u all
Being born in 1961, I was too young for Vietnam, and as a kid didn't really know what was going on there. In my early 20's I started researching the war and read many true accounts of the horrors that men just a few years older than me endured.
I am in awe of those who served and feel sorrow for the way they were treated when they came home.
Thank you to any one who served and is reading this. You are not forgotten.
Welcome Home!
That was special Charlie thank you very much
@@vbarbre
You are a very special group of people to me. Thank you
@@Charlie-zy1hg Thanks Charles
We were all suckers.
Beautifully done,semper fi and bless all.excellent song....hallelujah friend, ..rest in peace those who did not come home.
those who did,bless you all.
I am glad to be a VIETNAM VETERAN 5/2 Artillery ,Chu-CHI,South VIETNAM ,1968,1969 Love the music 🎶 Thanks
Thanks and Welcome Brother
Theses are our boys turned to men and I love them all ❤️🙏
I was in Cu Chi, 2/27th Inf. 66, 67, 68, and things changed just before TET.
Thank you for your service!! you all will never Be Forgotten!!
I let my wife view this sad video. She cried for the brother KIA in 1967. Even me, a ret US MARINE could not help but start to tear up at her reaction. He was 19 and a really great friend. 1:20
I hauled too many body bags from the the field to Saigon. This song makes me cry. I'm 73 and I just can not forget the carnage for nothing.
Outstanding tribute! God bless you for putting this video together, & God bless our veterans!
Thanks for the kind words George
Agreed brother
@@jpturner171 Thanks for watching JP
After he passed, I always wondered how a man who sat in the pilot or co-pilot seat of a B-17 for 52 missions could say that the bravest warriors in American history were our guys Vietnam. It made no sense until I heard this version of Halleluiah..
To the Vietnam Veterans, there are no words
We share your loss and sufferings in Vietnam. Our blood and tears were shed together on this land. May the physical and mental injuries of the war continue to subside for all of us. Take comfort in the fact that half of Vietnam was able to breathe free for a couple of decades.THANK YOU for your tremendous sacrifices.
To All of you Vietnam Soldiers that made it Home, THANKYOU for your service ♥ ♥ 🇺🇸 , and I am so glad I got to meet some of you after you returned. For those who didn't make it back alive, May God Bless You and your families 😢 🇺🇸 ♥.
Thank you my friend. It's fulfilling to get some kind thoughts.
@@charlie15713:11
MY BROTHERS…WELCOME HOME…69-71 VIETNAM/CAMBODIA. THANK YOU SIR FOR THIS.
Welcome Home Dennis and thanks for watching. Tay Ninh 66/67
I was there in 69 and 70. But sometimes it feels like yesterday. Semper Fi, my Brothers!
I know what you mean. Thanks for Watching and Welcome Home
I probably came in when you left. I was there in 70-71. 0331 oorah
@@jkillgrove Welcome Home Jim
It was just yesterday.
@@boondocker7964 It does sure seem like that
Served in 69 with 3rd battalion 7th Marines in India Co. To all that served and those serving today l salute you and to all those that didn’t make it back to the world you will never be forgotten
Welcome Home John and thanks for watching
My God, we were so young but we grew up so fast. Watching this video I experienced the same emotions I feel when I visit the VietNam Memorial in Washington D.C. Thank you to the person that put this video together. Semper Fi
Thank you and welcome home brother
Thank you🇺🇸
Thanks to you 🇺🇸
And thank you Marine.
SALUTE BRAVE HEART!!
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!!🙏🌹🌿
Two tours both I Corps. Hue and DaNang. . We were soldiers then and we are still soldiers now and will forever be.
Some gave some some gave all. God Bless us all . We have been to Hell and back. . But Hell still is real for us. The experiences we all had will never go away.
Thank you thank you.
I came from a small rural area. There were two small towns and many farms. There were approximately 30 young men who were draft age during Vietnam. All but three were drafted. I was drafted into the Marines. Two died over there and two killed themselves within a year of coming back. I knew three of them. Its been over 50 years and I still know the faces of those who didn't come home or killed themselves upon returning home.
USMC 1969-1971
So sorry for your friends Robert. You know there were just over 2.7 million of us who served there and they say there is only 600,000 of us left. Welcome Home.
@@vbarbre And I believe the 600,000 figure was being quoted many years ago. I wonder what the figure is today?
@@badguy5554 Your right I wonder too.
Welcome home to all my brothers who served - Vietnam 1966-67
@@billybaston2420 Welcome Home Billy and thanks for watching. My time also 66/67
A great rendition of the song Halleluiah. Thank you.
It was, and thanks for watching
So many brave young men fought and died in this senseless war 😢
All war is senseless - but its the brave men and women that keep us safe and free - God Bless them all
@OATNUT, senseless war? There was a reason for the allied forces being there and it damn sure wasn't senseless.
To the American Veterans from a Canadian. We remember too.. 😢❤️🇨🇦✌️
Thank You and thanks for watching
I enlisted in Feb. 1971 with my best friend on the buddy system but at San Fran he went on a Destroyer and I went on the Kitty Hawk out to sea to my boat the USS Paul Revere LPA 248 , did 2 tours (6 months each) at Westpac/ Tonkin Gulf. Got out in Feb. 1973, what a ride. My buddy made it home but over dosed on heroin in 1974. I would do it again under the right circumstances!! Those were the greatest years of my life, in my 20's and I am now 72. God Bless America...✌
Sorry about your buddy that was sad,
Beautiful tribute to our unsung heroes! Had 2 brothers in Vietnam ‘69-‘71. Marine Corp. & Army. Both made it back, both earned Purple Hearts. Would love the lyrics & artist who sings the Hallelujah. She did an amazing job singing it. 👏🏻👏🏻🙏🏼💕💕
The 1960's and early 70's were extraordinary and turbulent times to have lived through the Vietnam conflict divided this country (United States) over what it means to be patriotic sadly the returning Vietnam Vets took the blunt of the anger felt by the folks back here in America over handling of our Vietnam policy.
To all of our Vietnam Vets thank you for you service and sacrifice during the Vietnam conflict and welcome home I dedicate these two songs by SSgt Barry Sadler from his 1966 record album Ballads of the Green Berets to all of our Vietnam Vets the men and women who severed our country during the Vietnam conflict.
"I'm a Lucky One"
SSgt Barry Sadler
I'm going home, my tour is done
I'm going home, I'm a lucky one
But I left friends behind me
Who won't come home no more
Yes many friends remain forever
On that bloody shore
But at night when I sleep, I know my dreams will be
About my friends I left across the sea
I'll here verbal young men harn, laugh again out loud
We'll all be together in a happy crowd
But then I hear the sound of bullets whining overhead
Feel the crash of morters and all my friends are dead
My friends they fought and gave their all
My friends they died for freedoms call
As my dream was ending, they'll come and say goodbye
Though I'm sound asleep a tear I'll cry
And they say something which fills my heart with pain
Tell them about us Sadler, don't let us die in vain
I'm going home, my tour is done
I'm going home, I'm a lucky one
"Salute to the Nurses"
SSgt Barry Sadler
After the battle after the fight
many owe their lives to the ladies and men in white
And all of the men in this war torn land
salute the nurses of Vietnam
They know the awful toll of war each day
they know more than any the price we pay
A soldier his hands too burned to write
a nurse takes down his words through the lonely night
They have gone to the front where men fought
in the night from Pleiku to Qui Nhon
where war these men fight
Many a wounded soldier pain is eased for a while
by opening his eyes to see a nurses smile
To each of the wounded on the operating shelf
these nurses give a part of themselves
I know every soldier to the last man will
sometimes say a prayer for the nurses of Vietnam
After the battle after the fight
many owe their lives to the ladies and men in white
And all of the men in this war torn land
salute the nurses of Vietnam.
I was drafted and enlisted in the army. I was in Vietnam 1969-70 and this song (heard several years after) and it brings back very solemn memories. I thank all others who honorably served our country. This is a very sacred song.
Nice tribute & songs, a very, very, very, long overdue WELCOME HOME TO ALL OF THEM! I worked with several Nam vets when I was in, one guy was even Korea & Nam. They were all a great group people and I consider myself fortunate to have worked with them & learned from them. Many in my family have served, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam. Thanks to all now serving, those who have, and those who will in the future. FLY NAVY!!!
Thanks for sharing that and all the work you have done with veterans.
Amen to that
Boot's on the ground 69-70 Army Medic. Thanks to all who served and thanks to those who honor our service.
Thanks Joe, and Welcome Home
Lots of my friends in Nam were Medics. I will never forget there care of the dead and wounded and the good times in base camp. its been 55 years now since i finished my 2nd trip there. I just felt we lost control at the end of my second trip just before Tet. I went back to Nam in 2015. Wasn't the same but some of the relics of war remained. Brought back many memories. God be with us All. God Bless...
@@wellgreatengineeringltd3884 Thanks for sharing that and Welcome Home
I was sent on the first build up in 1965, fresh out of college with my whole life in front of me. What a shock it truely was ! My family never knew I was there, as far as they were concerned I was stationed in Germany.
@@erin19030 Wow the first tour, I was the second. Welcome Home Jim and thanks for watching
Many thanks to all that served and died for freedom. R.I.P. soldiers.
Whose freedom?? We lost the war but I have not seen a single VC walking down my street.
A warm “Thank You” to all that served in the Vietnam War for us back home here in the United States. 🇺🇸. 🍃♥️🍃
I don't think anyone can watch this without shedding some tears. Our young boys were such brave soldiers and did so for their country. Thank you and God bless you.
Thanks for sharing that Sharon
You didn't deserve the hell you went through. I'm sooo very proud of you for what you did for your country. I love all of you you're my heroes. Thank you for your service and sacrifices God Bless you, America and your families 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
God Bless you and thank you. David Boyd 25th Infantry. Nam 69-70
For those that have fought for it, life has a flavor the protected will never know.
Amen brother
Man that is the greatest example of the telling of freedom I have ever heard!!!!
Dedicated to the memory of my dear friend, Jon Holden, who served with the 101st Airborne in Vietnam in 1968.
Jon was awarded the Silver Star for valor and the Purple Heart for wounds he sustained while serving as a combat infantryman.
Jon was a true American hero and a great guy.
He didn't die in the war, but it killed him just the same.
I understand. My dad came home from this war in 1971 and I was his first born son in 1979. Sometimes I think it would have been easier if he had died there. It certainly killed his humanity. I remember the numerous times I'd be getting the belt for some trifle thing and the rage that he was venting on me. Beating me until I'd pissed my pants and then more for doing so, had nothing to do with whatever I'd done. He was trying to beat whatever evil lived in him. He never drank or did drugs. I remember walking up to him screaming in his sleep. He died five years ago. I was glad for him. Probably the first peaceful sleep he's had in fifty years.
@@michaelfrench3396
Michael,
You caught my meaning exactly. Sorry for all the damage inflicted upon you growing up.
At the very least you understand where all the rage came from - you weren't to blame... it was the war.
There are thousands and thousands of names on the Vietnam Memorial (The Wall) in Washington D.C. but that doesn't even begin to tell the story.
There are also thousands and thousands of other casualties (and their families) whose names aren't on The Wall, but certainly deserve to be.
As you well know, for many, many vets the war didn't end when they boarded that Freedom Bird bound for home - the struggle was just beginning.
Hope you are able to find a measure of peace. ✌
LOL 101st?? He had to volunteer for that. He was an idiot. He could have served his country nice and safe in the states or in Germany but no. He wanged to be ahero.
@@michaelwhisman
Michael,
You could not possibly be more misinformed - or stupid.
Germany? 😳
Stateside? 😳
Buddy, Jon was DRAFTED right at the very height of the Vietnam War. His chances of going to Germany, Korea, Tahiti, or remaining in CONUS were about the same as purchasing a billion dollar lottery ticket - i.e. non-existent.
As a 2-year draftee, 99.8% of the troops ar that time following basic training and AIT were sent to Vietnam with an 11 Bravo MOS - combat infantry!
Jon volunteered for airborne training so that he wouldn't have to serve with a straight leg infantry unit.
A very wise decision because the airborne soldiers were better trained and had their shit together.
They also had better company grade officers.
The regular infantry was totally fucked up with often inexperienced and incompetent officers - and grunts who didn't want to be there in the first place.
Jon wanted to volunteer for Special Forces (Green Beret) but refused to extend for an additional year.
Jon did not desire to be a hero - but he became one nonetheless. He returned from the war a highly decorated veteran.
The key here is that he did RERURN home.
Idiot? Hardly.... if he had taken his chances as a straight leg grunt, he probably wouldn't have returned at all.
Almost all the guys on the Wall were regular 11 Bravos.
Germany? My ass!
@@michaelwhisman
Flush out your head gear, buddy!
Jon was DRAFTED at the height of the Vietnam War - and the Army (especially the infantry) needed as many replacements as it could get.
Germany? 😳
CONUS? 😳
Are you crazy?
Almost all draftees at that time were sent to Vietnam with an 11 Bravo MOS - combat infantryman.
Jon volunteered for airborne training so that he could serve with the best - not some fucked up straight leg unit.
Smart move!
Being with an airborne unit greatly enhanced his chances of coming home alive.
Those sky troopers were well trained, well disciplined, and extremely motivated. They were also well led by junior officers.
The regular, straight leg grunts were almost all draftees and didn't give a shit. They were poorly trained and poorly led.
Most of the names on The Wall in D.C. represent these poor fuckers who were just 18 - 19 year old kids who didn't stand a chance.
Idiotic?
On the contrary...
Jon served with distinction and never aspired to be a hero. His Silver Star and Purple Heart speak for themselves.
In closing, I ask that you have a little respect for the people who did their duty.
Was it a fucked up war?
Absolutely!!!!
But the blame belongs squarely on the shoulders of politicians - and not the men and women who served there.
To make matters even worse, the guys who returned were treated like shit.
I see the trend continues.
I'm 79 now and served Dec 1966 to Dec 1967. I salute all who served in Vietnam. Too many good people didn't come home. And some are still dying from that war.
yep, they're still dying, it's a heart breaker every time I get word that another buddy has passed,, thanks for your service and welcome home,, Bearcat 68-69
wonderful tribute! Thank you from a Vietnam vets daughter!
Thank you very much for that and if your dad is still with us tell him Welcome Home from me and all the other vet's.
My husband served in 1968 with the 101st . It's with him every day. 19 year old boy put through all that for nothing.
Here I am 52 years later still feeling guilty about not having to go to Vietman..Lost some childhood friends in Vietnam..I did a 2 enlistment and was ashamed for years to tell people that I served..I am finally able to be proud to say I served...God Bless all the people that took the oath and laid their life on the line for our freedom!!!
You should be proud no matter where you served or what job you had. thanks for your serviced
I know what that feels like. Proud to be Chaplain for our bravest
Thanks my brother it really is appreciated don't think otherwise we made a difference big time !
My cousin was drafted during Vietnam 🇻🇳 war, but was stationed in West Germany 🇩🇪 You go where they order you to go ! 🤷 God bless our veterans 🙏 🇺🇲
We went in, and went where they told us.
Thank you for creating and posting this. It means a lot to me and my brothers. Army Huey crew chief, Mekong Delta, 69-70
I was 19 when I was in Vietnam and it was a place I relive a lot of nights.
super-fi . I’m A Vietnam veteran thank you. Specially those that gave their ultimate sacrifice .rest in peace.
God Bless America. Was a Huey pilot in 69/70 in Vietnam. Served with the best guys ever. Now 74. Be safe my friends
Welcome Home and Thanks for watching
This video moved me. It brought to surface emotions that I thought were lost. The lyrics and the pictures are spot on for what most of us endured while in Vietnam. Some of the battle pictures I could recognize and relate to. The shoulder patch of the 173rd was worn proudly and is displayed equally as proud in my home, some 57 years later. Thank you to all who served. Thank you to all the branches of service and to all the support units. Because of all of you, I was able to make it home.
They all need a Big Welcome Home because they went and did a job that nobody else wanted to do. Thank You for your Service and Welcome Home.
My absolute and great respect for all soldiers, veterans and victims ! Thanks for your service! Perfect tribute.
Thank you very much we really appreciate your words, and a Merry Christmas
@@vbarbre Merry Christmas to you !
Pffff. This is why all people from the other side are just removed from that... tribute for murderers. Bravo. Need to throw out.
Nicola Vivarelli - What service did these veterans provide---hence, how did their being in Vietnam serve the American people?
@@vbarbre A BROTHER TO MY TEAMS
THE WALK USE