US Army Infantryman in Vietnam 1965-73

by Gordon L. Rottman, Kevin Lyles (Illustrator)

Overview

This book tells the compelling story of the average US infantryman in Vietnam. Beginning with conscription, enlistment, Basic Training, and Advanced Individual Training at the Armed Forces Induction Center at Fort Polk (the infamous “Tigerland”), it goes on to explore the day-to-day realities of service in Vietnam, from routine tasks at the firebase to search-and-destroy missions, rocket attacks, and firefights in the field. Weaponry, clothing, and equipment are all described and shown in detailed color plates. A vivid picture of the unique culture and experiences of these soldiers emerges – from their vernacular to the prospect of returning to an indifferent, if not hostile, homeland.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781782004684
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Publishing
Publication date:	09/20/2012
Series:	Warrior , #98
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	64
File size:	6 MB

About the Author

Gordon L Rottman entered the US Army in 1967, volunteered for Special Forces and completed training as a weapons specialist. He served in the 5th Special Forces Group in Vietnam in 1969–70 and subsequently in airborne infantry, long-range patrol and intelligence assignments until retiring after 26 years. He was a special operations forces scenario writer at the Joint Readiness Training Centre for 12 years and is now a freelance writer. He lives in Cypress, Texas.

Kevin Lyles is a talented illustrator of 20th-century military subjects. He has illustrated several books for Osprey over the years, and has also written titles on the US Army in Vietnam, a subject in which he has a long-standing interest. He lives and works in Hertfordshire, UK.
Gordon L. Rottman entered the US Army in 1967, volunteered for Special Forces and completed training as a weapons specialist. He served in the 5th Special Forces Group in Vietnam in 1969–70 and subsequently in airborne infantry, long-range patrol and intelligence assignments before retiring after 26 years. He was a Special Operations Forces scenario writer at the Joint Readiness Training Center for 12 years and is now a freelance writer, living in Texas.

Table of Contents

	Introduction	4
	Chronology	5
	Conscription and Enlistment	6
	Training	11
	Basic Combat Training
	Military rank and pay
	After graduation
	Appearance	21
	Grubby in the bush
	Weapons and Equipment	27
	Gear in 'Nam
	Weapons in 'Nam
	Welcome to Vietnam... Fng	41
	Belief and Belonging	44
	Drug culture
	Rest and recreation
	Relations in the ranks
	Maintaining the esprit de corps
	The Boonies: On Campaign	49
	Firefight: Experience in Battle	52
	The Real World: Aftermath of Battle	55
	Collections, Museums, and Reenactment	57
	Websites	58
	Bibliography	59
	Color Plate Commentary	60
	Index	64