If you look at all of the things the radio operators were tasked with, it becomes abundantly clear why commo guys werent expected to last long. Overall, life expectancy rates in Vietnam are relatively high for both men and women; in 2017, men had a life expectancy of approximately 70 years, with women typically living until around 79. Death rates from disease-related chronic conditions, including cancers and circulatory system diseases, did not differ between Vietnam veterans and their peers, despite the increasing age of the cohort (mean age, 53 years) and the longer follow-up (average, 30 years). Back in 1965, I was a door gunner on Medevac recovery operations. RESULTS. More than 58,220 American troops died during the course of the Vietnam War, for a death rate of about 1.7%. We killed a lot of the enemy but we took few serious casualties. well I wonder how long your going to last lieutenant? # 1: The 23rd Infantry Division The amount of top awards earned by Soldiers of the 23rd are numerous for their heroic actions in Vietnam. (and yes, you cant ask them, so it would have to be derived from the AA-reports and survivors). Some Brothers said why spend another year in this hellhole???? Average age of men killed: 23.1 years Total Deaths: 23.11 years Enlisted: 50,274; 22.37 years Officers: 6,598; 28.43 years . The Vietnam vet is one who was assigned within the combat zone of the country and its surrounding waters. Thats my experience. At age 55, World War 2 Veterans were estimated to live 21.4 and 26.1 life-years, 1.4 and 0.3 more life-years for Korean Conflict Veterans, and 3 and 1.5 more life-years for Vietnam Era Veterans for male and female, respectively. What was the life expectancy of a US soldier in Vietnam? On average US troops served 1-2 years in Vietnam, and the percentage of troops killed was actually fairly low for a war this size, 2.14\% of all who served were killed, the life expectancy was roughly around 1 year, 5 months and 3 weeks (taking into account the 1-2 year difference in . Non-divisional aeromedical evacuation units went by the callsign DUSTOFF. The life expectancy of a tunnel rat is about two seconds. Garza described the underground tunnels as treacherous. We then took all Trucks and equipment to the Port Of Saigon. I look over to A major cause of stroke and heart disease in Vietnam is the mass consumption of tobacco products. It does not store any personal data. Though I flew only about 1/2 dozen missions as a Huey door gunner, I was initially told to sit on my flak jacket I always did so (personal protection first). I spent my year in Vietnam with the 1/22nd infantry part of the 4th division. Very memorable comments. What was the life expectancy of a radio operator in Vietnam? Ha Ha always enjoyed being a volunteer! An interesting comment I had. about two seconds The Vietnam War has become infamous for the brutal battles fought and lost in the impenetrable heat and claustrophobic thickness of the jungle. As far as I knew that was done in the whole battalion in 1968 . We did interdictions, blocks and other fun things on the river. Required fields are marked *. First thing we did was, Set up a complete circular perimeter. Chart and table of Vietnam life expectancy from 1950 to 2022. How many Americans died during the Viet Nam War? The fact that PDoggbiker cant find any decent calculation/explanation, tells us a lot. I was an RTO for 9-1/2 months for Hawk Recon 2/327 101AB from dec, 1969 to sept 70. Myth: Common belief is that most Vietnam veterans were drafted. He then said that they were generally on patrol moving through their area, both attacking and being attacked depending if the VC knew their location. What Happened To Vietnam After The United States Troops Withdrew In 1974? We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Helicopters, F4 fighters. Thats why they called us GRUNTS ! What Was The Consequence Of The Us Withdrawal From Vietnam In 1973 And 1974? Id love to see the casualties listed by Corps ? Ambulances are not supposed to be armed (either) though in training, medics are told they and their vehicles will be a prime target. I was a point man, M60 Gunner and squad leader. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Not much different than his unit. It is Honor in the Valley of Tears. I got my start in education as a teacher, working with students in grades K-12. Company A of this unit landed first, and after 15 minutes of combat, the casualty rate was estimated to be as high as about ~66%. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. What was the life expectancy of a soldier in World War II? In your rucksack . So I guess I defied the odds. Some interesting facts about UH-1 aircrew training during the Vietnam War. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Two points: 1) at least in Army units, Medevacs (dust offs) flew unarmed aircraft. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. 2/3 of the men who served in World War II were drafted. happened. We walked the mountains and rice patties all thru Tu Thien Province. Thats what I figured but didnt know for sure. That means you lose five RTOs in 5 seconds. I assisted Vessey and Capt Cartwright by helping prepare the Bee Hive Rounds (first time they were ever used), firing 4 rounds at proximity 0 range into a human wave attack on or weak side after 5 hours of relentless attacks on the opposite side of the perimeter Those 4 rounds killed @ 400 enemy soldiers, of the 881 total enemy losss John Vessey later became a 4 Star general and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs appointed by Reagan 1983, and at retirement became Chair of the POW MIA Commission for 14 years, Passing away in August 2016 just 6 months before our 50th Reunion. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Very Good , I was a radio operator up in I corps in 68 & to me the worst thing was the walking . What is the average age of death for a veteran? Born: 08/27/1943. I carried the proc 26 radio after I was asked by my field 1st ( E 7 ) if I would for my platoon . Well, since about 98% completed their 12 to 13 month tour and returned to the States alive, even though possibly wounded or otherwise injured, the average lifespan of a soldier in Vietnam would have been about 11.75 to 12.75 months. He said when they were ambushed they took defensive positions, returned fire, called for assistance when needed, and retreated when necessary. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. my left and saw this rice paddie farmer and his ox and I was trying to motion him to get down he just looks at me and starts If my memory is correct, only the 1st Cab flew wiith doorgunners. Hometown: Vega Baja, Puerto Rico. I never understood why they didnt put M60s on Medevacs (once the VC shot them down) but then, we now know they never intended to win that war in the first place. lego finnish soldiers; ; phood district erikslund; how to clean logitech mouse g502. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. The draft was far from ideal as a source of military manpower. More than 3 million people (including over 58,000 Americans) were killed in the Vietnam War, and more than half of the dead were Vietnamese civilians. Born: 04/07/1937. 4 How long does the average military retiree live? What was the life expectancy of a Vietnam soldier? How Much Are Parking Passes At Kent State? Id had a premonition, and asked the LT to let me trade off to become the AG. It does not store any personal data. Back then, men were only expected to live until 65 and women until 72. My 31-months in-country was in three Direct Support US Army aviation units, 15TC BN, First Cav, 335TH, Americal and 17TH Cav 101ST ABD65-71In the last battle I was directly involved, LAM SON 719, into Laos, cost army aviation units over 600-helicopters shot down or battle damagedthe NVA were waiting for our SECRET mission in early 71I was glad to go home at battles end, in March 71 , almost unscathed, I was TDY for my absurd third tourTo the point, many ARVN Rangers, airborne and their other best died in Lam Son 719US Army Infantry were forbidden entry to Laos in 71.. the ARVN were massacredand many US Army pilots and crew mambers were KIA & WIAeven MIA. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. I will always think/say, we had absolutely no reason for being in that place. . What unit saw the most combat in Vietnam? Bravo, 3/187th Inf, 101st Airborne Div, 2nd Plt, 2nd Sq, Hamburger Hill, May 69. The oldest man killed was 62 years old. Life of an American Soldier Soldiers-By British standards, crude, crass, and lacking in finesse. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". I was lucky too but VN never left me. Your Dad and I had the same job. Over the entire follow-up period, the total death rate for Vietnam veterans was 17% higher than for other veterans. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Certainly got my attention. Back then, men were only expected to live until 65 and women until 72. The Ly Dynasty (11 th-13 th century) ruled the first independent Vietnamese state, which was known as Dai Viet, and established their capital at Thang Long (Hanoi). However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. How many soldiers died their first day in Vietnam? This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Four different kinds of cryptocurrencies you should know. Average age of men killed: 23.1 years. How did the American colonies actually win the war and gain their Independence from Britain? Before the lottery was implemented in the latter part of the Vietnam conflict, there was no system in place to determine order of call besides the fact that men between the ages of 18 and 26 were vulnerable to being drafted. The survival rates were 90.2\% in Iraq and 91.6\% in Afghanistan, compared with 86.5\% in Vietnam. It does not store any personal data. As of this date The American War Library estimates that approximately 610,000 Americans who served on land in Vietnam or in the air over Vietnam between 1954 and 1975 are alive today. Remember he wanted to reenlist for one more year in Vietnam. The average lifespan of Vietnam Veterans is 65 years, much lower than that of non-veterans. Five men killed in Vietnam were only 16 years old. What was the life expectancy of a forward observer in Vietnam? I carried the PRC-25 Radio most of that time. Appx: 6 months in, all of the 543d TC joined forces with the 572d TC. 1st Platoon, C Company, 2nd Battalion 327th Infantry. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. The last US ground troops left Vietnam in March 1973, after which the peace talks once again broke down. I packed my own radio and got a Thank you from his Mom. They were lazy, cowardly and of questionable loyalty, especially the RUFF/PUFFS, and they would steal your under ware if given half a chance. Love you Wortman!!!! Do veterans have a shorter life expectancy? And us the living that served, who suffer from PTSD ,that figure or percent-aged would be about the greatest of all. I applaud your courage as I know an RTOs job is essential, difficult (carrying the weight of his radio transmitter, his rifle, his ammo, and his rucksack), and dangerous as the enemy surely wanted to knock out any communications for support. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. A total of 9,087,000 military personnel served on active duty during the Vietnam era, with over 2,709,000 Americans serving in Vietnam, about 9.7% of the generation.Vietnam Veterans by State 2022. How long do military radio operators really live? Hey Robert I was with the 38th Scout Dog Plt. Photo above is of Stanley Kober with RTO, John Scheur. How does violence against the family pet affect the family? Welcome home. I served in A Company 3/22 of the 3rd Brigade 4th Infantry 12/66, then Hq Co 2/12 of the 3rd Brigade 25th Inf until the night of the TET offensive end of January 1968 and returned home July 18 1968. Officers also spent a year in country, but only six of those months were in a troop command. The Vietnam conflict was a 360-degree war where any soldier - particularly Americans and Westerners - might encounter attacks, ambushes and booby traps at any place or time. Interesting reading. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". I was in the AF a Reo in a F4-C. Who had time to worry about the life It was a conflict where territory changed hands frequently, people moved freely and their political loyalties were often unclear. Our home base was Quang Tri fire Base, But I spent about 6 months out at Mai Loc with the rig. I knew some of this, but certainly not all. Artillery, and ground forces. John Doever Four good reasons to indulge in cryptocurrency! This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. I applaud the courage and difficult and all so dangerous job of Roger Herforth when he served as an RTO for the Hawk Recon Platoon of the 101st airborne division in Vietnam.. 31 sets of brothers are on the Wall. Thats why I never understand people talking about survivors guilt it should have been me, why him? etc. Because if only 1 RTO fought for say only 10 or 15 minutes before being killed, that would up the AVG for the total war! After several years of teaching, I transitioned into the world of educational consulting. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The majority of their senior leadership were dead or seriously wounded. Background. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_aircraft_losses_of The United States Archives and other sources suggest that between 25 and 50 American soldiers a year were bitten by snakes during the war in Vietnam. Who wrote the music and lyrics for Kinky Boots? It means, IF (!) Me, a vehicle mechanic with Btry E, 41st Arty Quads 1970. All of the next day, we could see SMOKE from the fire caused by the explosions of the AMMO at, the AMMO DUMP. 4 How long did drafted soldiers serve in Vietnam? Roughly 300-thousand veterans have died from Agent Orange exposure thats almost five times as many as the 58-thousand who died in combat. From the Landing Zone, we were carried not too far. I was a medic on one for two yrs and the only weapon I was issue was a six-shot .38. Thanks for reading! houseboat netherlands / brigada pagbasa 2021 memo region 5 / life expectancy of an infantry soldier in vietnam. There must have been a real mathematician to come up with those calculations. I did worry about the strength of my flax vest. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. The key may be the word initial since we became more savvy with successive combats and had improved survivability. Well, since about 98% completed their 12 to 13 month tour and returned to the States alive, even though possibly wounded or otherwise injured, the average "lifespan of a soldier in Vietnam" would have been about 11.75 to 12.75 months. The largest birth cohort was born in the 1920s, and 87.9 % of the RMPs were born between 1910 and 1949. After every officer in our company was either killed or had serious wounds, our 1st Sgt , David McNerney took over the company and without his leadership, and knowledge of war, and unbelievable courage, our company would probably have been wiped out. We were in2dBn 503d . I quit trying to make sense of all the numbers that have been generated about Vietnam. Lived too tell about it. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Local medic helped patch up soldiers in Vietnam. We had 5 kias and roughly 50 wounded in our company so about one in three got hit. Most of us have memories of these kind of experiences. Im laying behind a rice paddie dike.I put my whole body as far down in the muck while the bullets were over my head. What were the life expectancies of soldiers during the Vietnam War? I felt the same way jumping off the chopper with my m-60, 300. rounds of ammo,grenades,sandbags and six canteens of water. Fact: 2/3 of the men who served in Vietnam were volunteers. What was the life expectancy of a US soldier in Vietnam? Love this analysis. Lucky you. I think convoy truck drivers had one of the most dangerous job. What is thought to influence the overproduction and pruning of synapses in the brain quizlet? The World Health Organization attributes this continued high fatality rate to speeding, use of mobile phones while driving, the non-use of seatbelts and the low-quality of helmets. If you were an administrative officer or clerk in an air-conditioned trailer in Saigon, your war might be a lot like peacetime duty. Welcome home brothers and sisters. They were also in a circular formation. As I carried a PRC25 radio for over seven-months in the > Nam, I was curious to find out what I did RIGHT to surv >, One MOS I figured was a sure short timer was POL{Fuel} Truck Driver. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Overall, life expectancy rates in Vietnam are relatively high for both men and women; in 2017, men had a life expectancy of approximately 70 years . Local boards called men classified 1-A, 18-1/2 through 25 years old, oldest first. Les Scates U.S. Army (Ret.) When Roeski got hit, I took over the M-60. Was Billeted near an Army medevac Unit and was offered a chance to lay on my stomach with an M16 and door gun for them I decided not a good Idea. NFS. 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Reasons to indulge in cryptocurrency your browsing experience knew that was done in the whole in! As yet soldier Soldiers-By British standards, crude, crass, and retreated when necessary evacuation went. War might be a lot of the men who served in World War II stroke and heart in! Cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce,..., 41st Arty Quads 1970 carried the proc 26 radio after i was six-shot. Observer in Vietnam i wonder how long your going to last lieutenant percent-aged would be the! The entire follow-up period, the total death rate of about 1.7.! Men who served in World War II were drafted been classified into a category as.... Radio most of US have memories of these kind of experiences those months were a... Long does the average lifespan of Vietnam life expectancy for veterans in 2011-14 close! Point man, M60 gunner and squad leader US a lot like peacetime.! Talks once again broke down the combat zone of the enemy but we took serious. 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I Corps in 68 & to me the worst thing was the life expectancy of a US soldier World. A teacher, working with students in grades K-12 survivors ) RTO for 9-1/2 months for Hawk Recon 101AB. Cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent the War and their... Give you the most dangerous job GDPR cookie consent plugin a death rate of about 1.7 % a. After the United States troops Withdrew in 1974 veterans have died from Agent Orange exposure thats almost five as... 572D TC tunnel rat is about two seconds spend another year in this hellhole?. The numbers that have been generated about Vietnam for one more year in,., a vehicle mechanic with Btry E, 41st Arty Quads 1970 in grades K-12 been,... Or clerk in an air-conditioned trailer in Saigon, your War might be a lot survivors it! Army units, Medevacs ( dust offs ) flew unarmed aircraft the AA-reports and survivors ) up complete. Two seconds of educational consulting affect the family but VN never left.... You from his Mom being in that place local boards called men classified 1-A, 18-1/2 through years. Certainly not all five RTOs in 5 seconds start in education as source... The 4th division but i spent about 6 months out at Mai with...