The heat and humidity of Vietnam hits you like a blast furnace as you enter the Mekong Delta. Lugging a carbine in 90-degree heat and 100% humidity must have been sheer hell not to mention the war experience itself.Today the Vietnamese are our friends and could not be more hospitable. This seemingly illogical behavior comes down to economic pragmatism and the fact that we were not viscerally hated, as were the French.

Sara Litz, blond hair and blue eyes, and a new friend. Crossing the street can be hazardous to your health.

Thirty-five miles northwest of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) the North Vietnamese built a 130-mile complex underground defense system that American forces could not defeat. It included three levels of fortresses, living quarters, medical facilities, mess halls and other support storerooms. Hidden trap doors and booby traps infested this area. Americans could not see the enemy as they disappeared under ground after being ambushed. Supersonic aircraft, missiles, modern tanks, artillery and sophisticated command and control systems could not cope successfully with this guerrilla warfare. The "crazy devils", Americans, shot up everything but frequently inflicted few enemy casualties.

Student entering Cuchi Tunnel complex which included hospitals, dining and sleeping facilities

Viet cong warrior, a friendly Vietnamese

Siagon intersection, Peace Temple