The New Vietnam

It is two years ago this month since the Communists overran South Vietnam. When Saigon first fell, there was much speculation in the West about the likelihood of a bloodbath; as the months passed, however, and there was little news, the speculation began to taper off. Now, two years later, Vietnam and its people have vanished almost completely from the American consciousness. Those once actively concerned about the war, both doves and hawks, share a common interest in forgetting that faraway land of so many unpleasant memories.

U.S. antiwar groups don’t want to be reminded of Vietnam for fear of having to admit that their marches, demonstrations, and successful cut-the-aid campaign resulted in death or detention for thousands of South Vietnamese, many of whom were their partners in non-Communist opposition to President Thieu.

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Le Thi Anh

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It is two years ago this month since the Communists overran South Vietnam. When Saigon first fell, there was much speculation in the West about the likelihood of a bloodbath; as the months passed, however, and there was little news, the speculation began to taper off. Now, two years later, Vietnam and its people have vanished almost completely from the American consciousness. Those once actively concerned about the war, both doves and hawks, share a common interest in forgetting that faraway land of so many unpleasant memories.

U.S. antiwar groups don’t want to be reminded of Vietnam for fear of having to admit that their marches, demonstrations, and successful cut-the-aid campaign resulted in death or detention for thousands of South Vietnamese, many of whom were their partners in non-Communist opposition to President Thieu.