Timeline>Characteristics of the Vietnam War

Characteristics of the Vietnam War

In the Vietnam War, many went to college to avoid going to war.

Men often had to explain why they served; not serving was acceptable to many.

Soldiers served a tour of duty rather than for the length of the war.

In combat, there was no safety in the rear--there was no rear in Vietnam.

Many soldiers felt a lack of support for their efforts from the general population. The United States involvement in the war was controversial and sparked violent protests..

The war was fought in a country whose history, culture, religions, and values little known or understood by the general population of the United States.

There was no direct threat against the United States.

War against Vietnam was never declared by Congress, thus the correct term is Vietnam Conflict, although the word war is commonly used..

The war's goal was unclear; there was never clear indication that America would do whatever was necessary to win.

The officers in charge were often inexperienced and/or inconsistent. Fragging occurred.

There were no clear combat zones; there was no front.

Territory was taken, lost, and taken repeatedly.

Little emotional support was offered to soldiers returning home.

All of the soldiers did not return home at the same time.

No war since the Civil War caused such a rift in U.S. public opinion, leading to social unrest and violence.

According to many observers, Vietnam was the first war the United States lost. (see Record, Jeffrey. The Wrong War: Why We Lost in Vietnam. Annapolis, Md.: Naval Institute Press, 1998.)

The war was broadcast on television daily. It has been called the television war.

Drug use was a part of the combat scene; problems in the military included financial corruption, racism, low moral, theft, murder, and suicide.


For additional information, see:

The Long Way Home Project Statistics & References
Statistics About the Vietnam War
Vietnam War Statistics