Vietnam War Military Police: Life on the Front
Have you ever wondered what it was like to serve as a military police officer during the Vietnam War? What challenges and dangers did these brave individuals face on a daily basis?
In his gripping memoir Things I'll Never Forget, James M. Dixon takes us on a journey through his experiences as a Vietnam War military police officer. From boot camp to combat operations, Dixon provides a raw and honest account of life in the Marine Corps during one of America's most controversial conflicts.
Join us as we explore the realities of serving in the Vietnam War, the bonds formed between fellow soldiers, and the lasting impact of war on those who lived through it.
Life as a Military Police Officer in Vietnam
Joining the Marine Corps
If you've ever wondered what motivated someone to join the Vietnam War military police, you're not alone. For many, like the author, it was a combination of factors. A turbulent home life, the desire for independence, and the looming threat of the draft all played a role in his decision to enlist in the Marine Corps and serve as a military police officer during the Vietnam War.
The author saw joining the Marines as a way to escape his parents' constant fighting and gain some much-needed self-sufficiency. With the Vietnam War escalating and the draft in full swing, finding a job without a draft deferment seemed impossible. College wasn't an option due to financial constraints and self-doubt. So, along with his friend Dave, he decided to take control of his fate and enlist in the Marine Corps.
Boot Camp: Transforming Civilians Into Marines
Once you arrive at boot camp, you're in for a shock. The Marine Corps wastes no time in breaking down your civilian identity and rebuilding you as a Marine. From the moment you step off the bus, you're immersed in a world of strict discipline and intense training.
You'll quickly learn that everything has a new name in the Marines. Bathrooms become "the Head," doors are "hatches," and walls are "bulkheads." Make a mistake, and you'll face humbling corrections and physical discipline. But it's not all bad – there's a sense of camaraderie that develops as you and your fellow recruits navigate this new world together.
The physical training is grueling, often rivaling the intensity of high school football and wrestling practices. You'll endure painful shots, equipment inspections, and the complexities of military etiquette. But it's not just about physical strength – you'll also face mental challenges like obstacle courses designed to test your resilience.
Military Police Duties at Da Nang Air Base
As a member of the Military Police (MP) battalion, you'll find yourself stationed at a key installation like the Da Nang Air Base. Your responsibilities are crucial to the base's security and operations. You might be assigned to one of four groups, each tasked with securing different areas of the base.
Life on the base isn't all work, though. You'll have access to services like sewing alterations and laundry to make your daily life a bit easier. But don't expect too much downtime – even your precious four hours of nightly rest might be interrupted for inspections or additional duties.
Facing Danger on Patrol
Patrolling as an MP in Vietnam isn't for the faint of heart. You'll face constant threats from snipers, ambushes, and hidden explosive devices. Areas like Dog Patch are particularly dangerous, with the added risk of encountering GIs who are out past curfew.
To survive, you'll need to develop a strong bond with your fellow MPs. You'll learn to plan meticulously for every possible scenario and find ways to cope with the constant stress. Humor and camaraderie become lifelines in the face of unpredictability and danger.
Transitioning to Infantry
If you thought life as an MP was tough, wait until you transition to infantry. The physical demands are even more intense, requiring you to carry heavy loads, operate various weapons, and navigate challenging terrain in extreme weather conditions.
Gone are the relative comforts of your MP assignment. Now, you'll find yourself wading through leech-infested waters, enduring constant rain, and sleeping in waterlogged conditions. Simple tasks like muffling your cans with socks become crucial for maintaining silence in combat situations.
The Harsh Realities of Combat
Combat operations bring the brutal realities of war into sharp focus. You'll witness the loss of comrades and face ethical dilemmas that will haunt you long after your service ends. The author recounts the tragic deaths of his friends Weeocky and Mac during an assault on Duc Pho village, highlighting the personal cost of war.
Perhaps even more challenging are the unintended civilian casualties. You'll struggle with the memory of discovering dead civilians in hidden tunnels and grapple with the terror of innocent lives lost in the chaos of conflict.
Returning Home: A Different Kind of Battle
When you return from Vietnam, you'll face a new set of challenges. Reintegrating into civilian life isn't easy, and you may find yourself struggling to cope with traumatic memories. The author describes trying to bury these memories deep in his mind, only revealing them years later when his wife read his manuscript.
You might also discover a significant disconnect between your experiences and the understanding of those who haven't served. Simple conversations about the weather or debates over war movies can highlight this gap, making it difficult to share your experiences with others.
A Changed Perspective
Your military service will likely change you in ways you never expected. Everyday occurrences like rainfall might trigger memories of your time in Vietnam. You may find yourself avoiding certain colors or struggling to connect with old friends at high school reunions or church gatherings.
The Challenging Homecoming for Vietnam Veterans
Unlike veterans of previous wars, you may face hostility and indifference upon your return home. Many veterans found it necessary to hide their military background due to negative perceptions associated with the Vietnam War.
You might encounter protesters who label you unfairly or face uncomfortable questions about your service. The author recalls being called a "baby killer" and spat upon at the Los Angeles Airport – a stark contrast to the celebratory reception given to World War II veterans.
The lack of a proper welcome home can be particularly painful. You may find that expressions of gratitude like "Thank you for your service" come too late and feel inadequate. The author suggests that no physical memorial can make up for the initial lack of honor and respect shown to returning Vietnam veterans.
In the end, your experiences as a Military Police officer during the Vietnam War will likely stay with you for life, shaping your perspective and relationships in ways you never anticipated.