The Diverse Motivations Behind Vietnamese Soldiers in the Vietnam War

During the Vietnam War, the soldiers of both North and South Vietnam fought for a variety of reasons. This article explores the motivations of Vietnamese soldiers, with a particular focus on those fighting for South Vietnam and how they were assisted by American troops.

South Vietnamese Soldiers: Fighting for Their Country

The term 'fighting for the United States' is a generalization that does not accurately represent the complexities of the Vietnamese soldiers' motivations. For those serving in South Vietnam, the war was primarily about defending their nation from the advancing Hanoi government. They believed in preserving the newly formed democratic state from communist rule, which many saw as a threat to their freedom and way of life.

The South Vietnamese military, often referred to as the Republic of Vietnam (RVN), was primarily composed of people from various social and economic backgrounds. For many, the concept of defending the state was fundamental, as highlighted by instances like the Tiger Scouts who were a specialized unit within the RVN forces. These scouts were known for their ability to operate in guerrilla fashion and provided vital intelligence to the U.S. and South Vietnamese armies.

Motivations of Southern and North Vietnamese Soldiers

It's important to note the distinction between North Vietnamese and South Vietnamese soldiers. While some in North Vietnam fought under the banner of a united Vietnam under communist rule, others were willing to switch sides. Notably, the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong who fought against the U.S. later provided intelligence and training to scouts who were then used against their former comrades.

These scouts, often referred to as 'Kit Carson Scouts,' operated with a rich understanding of the local terrain and combat tactics. Their knowledge significantly bolstered the U.S. and South Vietnamese forces during the conflict. They served as a bridge between the different factions, providing crucial information and navigation skills.

Illusions of Democratic South Vietnam

While the idea of a democratic South Vietnam was championed by the U.S., it was often an illusion for many of the soldiers and civilians in the region. The power structure in South Vietnam was largely controlled by the upper class, who had significant vested interests in preventing communism from spreading. This class divide meant that many of the lower classes, who were predominantly Buddhist and poor, had little stake in the outcome of the conflict. Their motivations were often more about survival and immediate concerns rather than a broader political ideology.

Conclusion

The motivations driving Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War were complex and multifaceted. While some fought for the broader ideals of their nation, others were focused on localized struggles. The war was not solely about fighting for the United States; it was about defending South Vietnam from an invading force and maintaining control over their own destinies. The assistance provided by the U.S. was significant, and the contributions of scouts like the Kit Carson Scouts were invaluable in a conflict characterized by its guerilla tactics and local knowledge.