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Question: How long did a typical soldier (Army) serve in Vietnam!?
How did he get there, and once he was there, what did he do!? Where did he typically train, and how was he grouped!? Lastly, did he stay with one platoon or squad the entire time he served!?

If you can help, thanks a billion!Www@QuestionHome@Com


Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
Army tour was 12 months!. In the early buildup phase of the war units went over together!. In later years individuals went to a replacement depot where they were sent to units in need of replacements that had the same MOS (Military Occupation Specialty)!.

I went twice!. First time I was with the same unit the entire tour!. The second tour I spent about 1/2 with one unit then was transferred to another unit to finish my tour!.

Since there were a great many draftees coming into the Army and on to Nam soon after basic and AIT training, most units had at least some rudimentary jungle training once you were in-country!. There were also some specialized schools in Viet Nam!. I went to Recondo School in Nha Trang, for instance and returned to my original unit afterward!.

Within units, usually company size, a soldier might get promoted and moved to another squad or platoon but it was common to stay with the same guys throughout your tour!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Tour of duty in Nam = 1 year!.
Training depended on what specialty or MOS he was or what branch of service!.
Marines went over as a unit (Company)!. Army went most often as individuals for placement into units already in country!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Worth adding here, segregation in armed forces was from 1812 to 1954!. Thus, 'Nam was the first major war without segregation in army!.Www@QuestionHome@Com