Vietnam War: yesterday and today

Much has been made of this war in American culture. Some say it was the only war the U.S. has lost, some say it was a waste of human life, and many agree it was one of the most brutal wars fought in the modern era. The proliferation and experimentation with chemical weapons is one of the most controversial and well-known facets of the war, as well as the unreal jungle conditions the fighting was done in. In America, the common people were mostly pissed off at the government and unsupportive of soldiers. Protests were rampant and the anger was tangible in the streets. Perhaps no war before or since so affected all facets of American culture and society, as the war was on everybody's minds and the proof was all around. When veterans returned home many were treated badly, spat on, looked upon with disdain, baby killers, drugged out psychopathic murderers. The conditions of the war were relentless, guerrilla warfare waged in a dense sweltering jungle. The U.S. forces underestimated the Vietcong's tenacity and perseverance. It grew into a war of attrition, both sides waiting for the other to give in but neither giving or gaining any ground. Today people have a more sympathetic view of both sides, both the Vietcong and the Army. We don't think our soldiers were baby killers or murderers. Many movies, musics, books, and other cultural ephemera have emerged documenting and relating this war. The Vietnam Memorial is a testament to the memory our nation has of it, and the aftermath of this conflict started many veterans programs that are still in use today to help soldiers recover and heal.