173rd Airborne?

Question

My son wishes to be a soldier from the Viet Nam era, 173rd Airborne for Halloween - in honor of the soldiers killed that are mentioned in the Big & Rich song, The 8th of November. He is serious about this, not doing it to mock anyone, but as a tribute. (he's a pretty serious little guy) I would see to it that his insignia is correct, etc. I would like to know if there would be any way to make sure no one is offended by this? It's intended as a tribute, nothing else. Both of his great-uncles served in Viet Nam in the Air Force & his cousin is currently in the Marines - so he takes this pretty seriously. Any suggestions - & please don't be ugly . . . I'm asking nicely. Thnks -

I say "little guy" but he's 11 & very mature for his years. My cousin was shot in the leg in Iraq last year & since his troop had an embedded journalist - we witnessed the whole thing as they were filming at the time he was wounded. Yes, he does understand what war is.

Thanks so much to Sarge, Pink & John for the great info - big help!!!

Answer 1

I am a spouse of a soldier in the 173rd and I think it is great that he wants to honor our fallen heroes!

Answer 2

I think that is pretty cool. My friend was in the 173rd airborne. He recently came home from Iraq (and italy) for good. Here is a website for information and the insignia is on it too. I do think you should explain the history to your son, if he doesn't know it already. It sounds like he may already know it since he is pretty specific about what kind of soldier he wants to be for Halloween.

http://www.173abnbde.setaf.army.mil/
http://www.173rdairborne.com/menuvietnam.htm

Answer 3

I understand that your son wants to do an honest and respectful tribute, but many people may not see it that way. People handing out candy may be critical of him and called him things like mini-Nazi or worse, and the parents may even criticize you for letting him wear that costume. There are a lot of ignorant people in this country who believe they're entitled to freedom simply by virtue of the fact that they're Americans, and as such they don't understand that freedom isn't free. I would be proud to put on my uniform and march right alongside your son on October 31st, but I'm afraid that he'll get a lot of unwarranted criticism for his costume and he really doesn't deserve that. Ultimately, it's his choice, but you may want to talk to him about it and let him know what he may be up against.

Answer 4

Here's a soldier from the 173rd in full battle uniform;

http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A9iby4WOJRxFviAApm2jzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTA4NDgyNWN0BHNlYwNwcm9m/SIG=11ovn3q4a/EXP=1159558926/**http%3a//www.tavvaustin.org/grimm1.jpg

Here's is some information abou the battle in question;

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Hump

Answer 5

I think you have a wonderful son for wanting to do this. I wish more kids thought like your son.

Answer 6

I UNDERSTAND THAT HES TRYING TO DO SOMETHING GOOD,BUT I DONT THINK IN MY OPINION IT WOULD BE RIGHT FOR HIM .HE DOESNT UNDERSTAND WHAT WAR IS