VietnamSoldier

-In their letters there are multiple acronyms including: S and D mission, LZ, and VC. -VC stands for Viet Cong, one of the US enemies being pursued. -The VC is nicknamed "Charlie, Chuck, or Mr. Charles." -The American army was not used to fighting in Vietnam's conditions. These include hot and humid weather, with bushes and brush that comes up above their heads. It is hard to see and the VC has set up traps, mines, and bombs that are all hidden. -The Vietnam war was "a different experience" than World War II. -"Grunts" was the nickname given to infantrymen on foot that looked for the "elusive" VC. -Most volunteer "grunts" were white Americans from rural areas, 21-22 years. -White and black infantry fought together. No race discrimination in the army. -10-12% of American soldiers were black. -American Recruits had to spend time training at rigorous boot camps before being sent to fight in Vietnam. New arrivals to Vietnam were "overwhelmed" by humidity of Vietnam. -New combat soldiers in Vietnam would be sent to a base camp/ "fire camp" where they spent the majority of their first year in war. -Platoons consisted of 20-40 privates/ corporals. A lieutenant and NCO (non-commissioned officer) led a platoon with at least one member of each platoon having some medical training. -1-2 grunts would be trained as an RTO (radio-telephone operator). RTO's called for support and air cover. They are "at least as important as the lieutenant, medic, or grenade launcher." -Typical grunt pack weighed 35-70 lbs. It included all the necessities including weapons. -Claymore, an explosive device projecting 700lb steel balls, was used in the Vietnam war. -Cherries was the affectionate name for a newly-arrived soldier. "Experienced grunts avoided the cherries. Walking to close to these naive and inexperienced soldiers was dangerous." -S and D mission stands for "search and destroy" -LZ is landing zone. It is a hot LZ if the enemy is waiting for the landing. -Platoons measure progress in a series of "clicks." 1 click= 1000 m -Uphill climb in the jungle proved to be a slow moving operation. -Most grunts could avoid dehydration, but several always passed out from the heat and humidity -Cobras, Vipers, and Pythons were a serious danger to the soldiers. Rats were always frequently seen and consumed the bodies of dead grunts. -Guerilla style tactics were used to ambush by the VC and NVA. Americans were not used to this way of fighting in war. -Tunnels were used by the VC, who disappeared into the tunnels after an ambush