13 Months In The Bush In Vietnam In 1968

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In 1968, during the height of the Vietnam War, I embarked on a journey that would forever change my life. I spent 13 months in the bush, serving as a soldier in one of the most challenging and brutal conflicts of the 20th century.

The Vietnam War was marked by intense guerrilla warfare, treacherous terrain, and constant danger. As a young man fresh out of high school, I had no idea what I was truly getting myself into. But I was determined to do my duty and serve my country.

13 Months: In the Bush, in Vietnam, in 1968

by Bruce A. Bastien (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

FREE

The first few weeks in Vietnam were a shock to my system. The scorching heat, oppressive humidity, and unfamiliar surroundings took some time to get used to. We were constantly on edge, never knowing when the enemy could strike.

Our days were spent patrolling the thick jungles, searching for the enemy and gathering intelligence. The nights were even worse. The darkness played tricks on our minds, making every sound and rustle in the bushes seem like an imminent attack.

One of the most vivid memories I have from my time in Vietnam is the sound of helicopters. They were our lifeline, delivering supplies, reinforcements, and mail from home. But they also brought news of fallen comrades and the constant reminder of the world we had left behind.

During those long months in the bush, we formed a brotherhood like no other. The bonds we created, fueled by the shared experiences and the common goal of survival, kept us going in the toughest of times. We relied on each other for support, both physically and mentally.

War is never easy, and the Vietnam War was no exception. The physical toll it took on our bodies was immense. The constant lack of sleep, the malnourishment, and the never-ending stress wore us down. But despite it all, we persevered.

In those moments of respite, when we had a chance to catch our breaths and reflect, we couldn't help but wonder why we were there. The politics and motivations behind the war seemed distant and disconnected from the reality of our day-to-day lives. We were just young men, trying to survive in a hostile environment.

As the months passed, we witnessed the horrors of war up close. The casualties were mounting, and the devastation was all around us. It was a constant reminder of the fragility of life and the brutality of conflict.

But amidst the chaos and destruction, there were moments of beauty and humanity. The simple acts of kindness from the locals, who despite their own struggles, welcomed us and shared what little they had. The camaraderie and support of fellow soldiers, who became our second family.

Finally, after 13 long months, I returned home. The journey back was filled with mixed emotions. I was relieved to be out of harm's way, but also haunted by the memories that would stay with me forever.

Today, as I look back on those 13 months in the bush, I realize how they shaped me as a person. They taught me resilience, strength, and the importance of cherishing every day. They also taught me the true cost of war – the lives lost, the families forever changed, and the scars that never fully heal.

So, when you hear about the Vietnam War or meet a veteran who served during that time, take a moment to listen to their stories. Behind each one, there is a journey of sacrifice, bravery, and resilience. And it is through these stories that we can honor and remember those who served, and ensure that the lessons learned are never forgotten.

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13 Months: In the Bush, in Vietnam, in 1968

by Bruce A. Bastien (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

FREE

This is an intimate look at life in the bush during the Vietnam War in 1968. You will experience the daily struggles, battles, and funny things that happen to a USMC grunt living in the bush for 13 months.
You’ll see firsthand through the battles, what Marines ate and drank, where they slept and their existence that ranged from unmitigated terror to utter boredom, hot & dry to wet & cold, rested and ready to frazzled and wired.
You’ll watch as a kid grows philosophically and confident, able to handle stress and strain, learning about friendship, love, difficulty, danger, deprivation, and loss.
His friends are American kids from all different walks of life, backgrounds, races, and learning. The common element among them is their humanity, bravery, and willingness to risk their lives to help one another.
They all were simply just a bunch of American boys doing their job, taking their chances, hoping to go home to the real world from an unreal world.