2007-06-03 10:30:39 · 7 answers · asked by NickelBerry 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Homework Help
How did the experience of going to Vietnam affect you personally?
How did you feel about going?
How did you feel when you came back?
Did you have any experiences you want to share?
How do you think America treats Veterans of Vietnam?
How did Vietnam change you?
Did you ever question what was going on when you were there?
2007-06-03 10:43:30 · answer #1 · answered by Di'tagapayo 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
In addition to the good suggestions above, I would ask if they were drafted or if they volunteered. And if they volunteered, why and would they do it again.
You might ask them to describe a typical day -- one that involved combat and one that did not.
I would also ask about parallels between their war and the current ones (Afghanistan and Iraq -- they ARE different).
You might ask about something funny that happened -- even in war, there is humor (look at M*A*S*H).
Another good question is how did they view the South Vietnamese people? The ARVN? How much did they interact with them.
Finally, if your interview is going well, ask if they would go back and why (an amazing number of vets do!).
Try to avoid yes or no questions and if they do not want to discuss something, don't push it. Many veterans will not talk about combat situations. Use a tape recorder (or video camera) if you have one and keep the tapes. It's also a good idea to transcribe your interview and take a picture of the vets you interview. If you can borrow a photo from them in uniform to scan in, that's all the better.
You don't give a purpose for this question, but if you are doing real interviews you might see if a local museum would want the tapes and photo copies. The National Archives had a very large oral history project with WwII vets, not sure if it's still active.
Good luck, this is a very valuable service!
2007-06-03 17:22:26 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Is this a class assignment or a personal quest? You've got some pretty good suggestions already. Lots of veterans don't care to talk about certain aspects of their war experiences. You might want to ask what medical conditions they face as a result of their service. Agent Orange is a factor in health issues for many Viet Nam veterans. Why not first ask yourself what it is you personally want to know and just phrase the questions in your own words. Good luck
2007-06-03 13:26:11 · answer #3 · answered by sarge 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You might ask them to compare their acceptance back into society following their sacrifices to America with those who returned from the Gulf War, Korean War, WW II, etc.
2007-06-03 10:39:13 · answer #4 · answered by Sherry K 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If they knew how sorry so many Americana's are that they were not -supported-100% by the country as a whole, and , would say- I, for one , thank you for your time served, sorry it took so long.
2007-06-04 11:49:50 · answer #5 · answered by ? 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Looking back, do you feel like you fought for a worthy cause?
2007-06-03 10:38:12 · answer #6 · answered by Mrs. Maintenance 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ask.."if there is one piece of advice you could give some one my age what would it be?" you'd probaly get a good long through answer
2007-06-03 10:36:03 · answer #7 · answered by bbellsport 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋