[Cuttnhorse]

Re: Free Fire Zones

I was in Viet Nam, on Swift Boats a couple of years before Kerry arrived, in fact, I was on boats in the An Thoi area and was involved in the same Free Fire zones he is talking about.

When I was there, 1965-66, the rules of engagement said that we could return fire if fired upon in a Free Fire zone without having to obtain permission from Saigon command. Imagine what this meant...in other areas we had to obtain permission to return fire if fired upon!! Great way to run a war!

Millions is exactly correct, judgement was expected...it was not an open shooting gallery.

[SW6906]

I read somewhere that Kerry should have been disciplined for leaving his boat like he did when he recieved his medal for shooting a dead enemy soldier. The point was made that if you left the boat, you became a liability should things "get lively" after that. Rescuing you would put the whole crew in danger. Any truth to this? It seems to make sense........

[SW6906]

Oh yeah: Thanks for your service!