Vietnam Hardships & Disillusionment Guerilla Warfare: Vietnam’s terrain posed challenges to Americans. (Flooded fields swamps, tangled jungles, heat, leeches) Vietminh & Vietcong used ambushes and close quarter combat to stop the use of air strikes. Land mines were also a danger.

Effective Enemy Forces: Overconfidence in America’s superior military technology was a problem for troops. (Morale declined as the war continued) The use of guerilla tactics with disciplined and more experienced soldiers concerned American troops. The Vietminh’s/Vietcong’s knowledge of the local terrain was a clear advantage.

Distinguishing Friends From Foes: The Vietcong’s tactics and use of thousands of underground tunnels made it difficult to locate the enemy. Many Vietnamese civilians did not welcome the presence of American troops.

Growing Disillusionment: Most Americans believed in the “Domino Theory,” but as the war progressed and dragged people began to question the wisdom of the conflict. Quote from a soldier’s letter to his father. “Vietnam is no gain that I can see, dad. We’re fighting, dying for a people who resent our being over here… I guess I’m bitter now, dad. This war is all wrong.”