Even with its spectacular music, striking fashions, and general air of revolution, the 1960s and early 1970s were largely defined by the Vietnam War. Whether you were a soldier in combat or a student standing against sending our troops out east, the conflict played an integral role in everyday life, shaping the culture for decades to come.
From snapshots of the bunks to demonstrations across the country, here are 20 photos of what life looked like during the Vietnam War.
1
Mom and Dad
“1960s. My grandmother and grandfather in Vietnam.”
2
Crew Life
“A glimpse into My Dad and his crew’s life in 1968 Vietnam.”
3
Soldiering On
“My Dad in Vietnam (USMC). Circa ~1969. Location unknown, but notes mention Da Nang and China Sea.”
4
Pentagon Protest
Protesters gather outside of the Pentagon, 1967.
5
Watching On
A man sporting a Purple Heart medal stands amid an anti-Vietnam War protest in San Francisco.
6
Furry Friends
“My dad and his pet monkey in Vietnam, 1966.”
7
Joining the Resistance
A protester offers officers a flower during a demonstration in Arlington, Virginia.
8
Centerfold
“My grandfather reading a [men's magazine] during the Vietnam War (late 1960s-early 1970s).”
9
In The Bunk
“My Army grandad (25th ID) served as a door gunner/infantryman in the 1960s during the Vietnam War.”
10
D.C. Demonstrations
“Protesters speak out against the war in Washington D.C.”
11
Veteran’s Resistance
A veteran throws his medal during an anti-Vietnam War protest.
12
“My dad in Vietnam ‘68”
“Going through family photos over the holidays and found this one of my dad while he was serving in the Marines ’67-’68.”
13
From the Frontlines
“My grandpa in Vietnam ~1970.”
14
Active Duty
“My Dad in Vietnam. He left high school and home at 17 to enlist.”
15
Cheers
“My granddad in Vietnam getting drunk with John Wayne — 1966.”
16
San Francisco Streets
San Francisco police officers monitor an anti-Vietnam War protest, April 1967.
17
Soldier Selfie
“1969 Vietnam: my father’s version of a selfie before selfies were a thing.”
18
After Hours
“My father on left. 1968 Da Nang. His high school graduating year he was drafted into Vietnam.”
19
Soldier Send Off
“My Uncle heading out for one of the three tours he served in the Vietnam War. 1960s.”
20
‘We Won’t Fight Another Rich Man’s War!!!’
Demonstrators with Vietnam Veterans Against the War take to the streets of Philadelphia, 1976.
