This assignment is to help you learn about combat during the war in Vietnam. Combat in Vietnam was very different from the type of combat which American soldiers experienced in WWI and WWII. However, while the geography is different, it does have strong similarities to the ongoing combat which is happening in Afghanistan. Distinct battle lines are usually missing.
For this assignment, you are a nineteen (19) year old private in Vietnam. Your assignment is to write a letter to your father describing battle in which you participated in Vietnam. If you have seen the movies, Platoon or We Were Soldiers, then you have some understanding of what combat was like in Vietnam.
ESSENTIAL QUESTION: What makes fighting this type of war so difficult for American soldiers?
Educational Objectives:
1. You will be able to distinguish between the VC and North Vietnmese Regulars.
2. You will be able to describe some of the geographical terrain which Ameican Soldiers fought in.
3. You will be able to some of the weapons which the Americans used to find the war.
4. You will be able to describe some of the methods of combat which was used.
Links: (Some links may be blocked on school computers.)
1. This song was a number 1 song in 1965. BALLAD OF GREEN BERET
2. John Wayne made a movie which supported American involvement in Vietnam. This segment is from that movie. SEGMENT FROM GREEN BERET
4. Check out this link from PBS concernaing WEAPONS which were used.
5. Read the REFLECTIONS of this former paratrooper.