In this episode of Dearest Suzie, I share an entry dated October 8, 1964. During a harrowing night, Bill and his comrades were fired upon by the Viet Cong (V.C.), awakening nearly everyone on the compound. While no hits were reported, this close encounter underscores the ever-present danger faced by U.S. forces in Vietnam.
We delve into the history and tactics of the Viet Cong, a communist-led guerrilla force that emerged in the late 1950s in response to discontent with the U.S.-backed South Vietnamese government. Utilizing guerrilla warfare, ambushes, and psychological tactics, the V.C. relied on their intimate knowledge of the terrain and the element of surprise to challenge American troops.
As we explore this entry, I reflect on the realities of combat, where danger lurked at every corner, often intensified by the cover of darkness.
What’s Covered:
-Bill Lowie's entry detailing a close call with the Viet Cong
-The history and significance of the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War
-The tactics employed by the V.C. and their impact on U.S. forces
📷 Featured Photo: A night scene depicting a mess hall or officer club at the airbase, illustrating the soldiers’ downtime amidst the chaos of war.
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