Veterans Against the Vietnam War: A Pivotal Protest Movement

Abstract

Vets against the War 1968 marked the height of the anti-war movement in the United States, whereby protests erupted, and anti war sentiments spilled over on the American soil (Burns, 2017). This was the time that marked the social and political upheaval in the United States of America. Activists conducted Seminars at the University of Michigan to raise consciousness in support of the Civil Rights movements, which attracted many participants. There were national protests and civil disobedience, which became more widespread as the war continued. These led to draft induction centers, railroad tracks that transported troops, and draft cards' public burning. The anti war movement became a part of the broader protest against traditional American values and attitudes. The students believed and felt that they did not feel obliged to participate in the war by all means (Smith, 2017). As the opposition increased, the news media became more skeptical about the war coverage, which facilitated the mainstream churches and other unions to speak out more boldly about the war (Burns, 2017). The inclusion of the churches and these unions led to intense pressure on the government. The Johnson administration began talks with the Vietnamese and the NLF in coming to a consensus on the suspension of the North Vietnam bombings (Smith, 2017). The anti-war campaigns carried out by the Vietnam veterans seemed effective than any other demonstrations because these veterans threw away their awards and openly defied the government. Furthermore, the veterans were joined by the Gold Star Mothers. The anti-war campaign became more effective and efficient. In real sense, most veterans felt proud of the services they had rendered for their country while serving in Vietnam. However, quite a number had doubts about the war and their actions towards the war and the violence committed...