From CPT Pike, on Wed, 24 Jul 1996 01:38:20 GMT (in response to: Thanks to the Vietnam War Protesters.)
The the 58,000 killed in action, to the hundreds of thousands who served and those who were wounded: all honor to their names. I was in diapers for part of the war, but the respect and thanks I feel toward Vietnam veterans can not be put into words. I have bitterness for many of the protestors who, when the draft calls dwindled in the early 1970's, suddenly disappeared and forgot about the war. I feel many claimed that the war was immoral, but actually just did not feel like going. Many just cared about themselves, not morality. I feel America had a contract with those who fought: serve your country and the country will serve you. But the contract was broken. Wounded veterans returned from Vietnam and saw those who stayed had advanced in their jobs, had cars and houses. They could brag about their actions, while many veterans were forced to feel ashamed. I have noticed times have changed for the better and I am glad.
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