Many victims of the Japanese and Nazis has some measure of justice after the war; this was not the case in Vietnam. The “forgive and forget” attitude of the US (actually worse; we strengthened them with trade) should serve as ample warning of how fleeting our foreign policy may be - especially for those considering enlisting. A friend who served at that time describes how he answers fundraising calls from disabled veteran groups today; he asks them to devote their energies to visiting high schools and warning young people about the dangers of enlisting. They could even bring pictured of disfigured vets...
My whole entire life was dictated, as it has turned out, by the draft number I had. So, on Feb. 7, 67 I joined the USNR. 2 years later I dropped out of my 3rd year of college to go on required active duty which at that time was 2 years.
Fortunately, though I got very close to Vietnam (on board a Navy ship), I never set foot in country.
With that historical perspective, I can say I agree with you about the “fleeting foreign policy”...........great statement.
However, I disagree with you that Vietnam era vets like me should go out and actively attempt to persuade young men or women not to serve their country. As one near 70 vet, I can say categorically that serving my country is, after my 2 successful kids, my most proud accomplishment and I’m so glad I did serve.