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Vietgodnam

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Although this was before my time, having a passion for history, this was certainly a one of the most controversial wars I have read about in recent history. Apart from the message of always honoring those who fought for country, I would like to add one thing.

I have read so many beautiful stories of USA war vets returning to Vietnam and meeting fellow Vietcong soldiers, and also setting up charities and helping people there. There are so many of them and all so heartwarming to see that despite all the horrors humans have such a capacity to do great good.

I have written many war poems and war memorial poems, but this was inspired by two poets here, Jan Allison and Robert Stoner Jr. I highly recommend you read both their poems and I thank them both for providing inspiration.

The poems are:

Remembered Valor

And

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

VietGodnam The red white and blue Not always right, but always true Men of valor Men of the draft Men of the poor Men who spilled their blood for country Those who died Those who lived Those who live inside their nightmares I humbly thank you It is I who must walk in shame That we did not play our role Supporting our nations heroes Supporting those who deserve the most Now years later wisdoms become the truth As Vietcong and War Vets, hold hands Drinking tea and sharing peace Ask any soldier, for what value he would fight the most He will tell you very clearly I will fight, to end all wars He who has fought Knows that the battlefield leaves no winner Only orphans to roam the streets

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Richard D Seal

Date: 7/16/2015 6:04:00 PM

I believe future historians will re-write this war and set it in proper perspective. In the meantime, thank you. Unfortunately there will always be orphans. Take care, Richard

Arthur Vaso
Date: 7/16/2015 7:41:00 PM

I agree with you Richard, and thanks so much!

Richard Lamoureux

Date: 7/16/2015 3:59:00 PM

Very moving and no less significant, so many years after the war. Many veterans came back and were shamed by the country that they honarably fought for. It's so easy for those who don't fight the battles to be morally outraged. My heart goes out to the veterans of this war and the ones that have followed.

Arthur Vaso
Date: 7/16/2015 7:41:00 PM

Richard, you have said that so well! Exactly my sentiments, It bothers me when I see vets returning home and not given the help, care, assistance they need! Thank you oh Wise Poet!

Robert Stoner Jr

Date: 7/16/2015 2:52:00 PM

Well Arthur I don't have the benefit of much ,read others work time. But today I found this work.I needed time for the goosebumps to settle before commenting. First thank you for the dedication to my work as inspiration. Your perspective scary true, your economy of words amplifies the message. The message is insightful, heartfelt and offers solace to the men who fought for their country. Thank you.

Eve Roper

Date: 7/16/2015 1:50:00 PM

Oh, Wow!!! So very profound poem. I live with a Vietnam vet and it all comes so clear with this write. He also comment that you should not feel a shame, its people like Jane Fonda's statements and a photograph of her sitting on a North Vietnamese anti-aircraft battery outraged many Americans and veterans, leading many to call her "Hanoi Jane" and a "traitor."

Arthur Vaso
Date: 7/16/2015 7:53:00 PM

Well you just go and tell your friend how much he is appreciated! God Bless!

Jill Spagnola

Date: 7/15/2015 10:56:00 PM

Wow! You have so many different layers as a poet. I have been inspired by many of your works(layers :) Don't get a big head or anything but this is a masterpiece, jill

Arthur Vaso
Date: 7/16/2015 7:47:00 PM

I tried to leave the house today, thanks to you I couldn't fit my head through the door!!!!! Thank you! :)

Dr. Upma A. Sharma

Date: 7/15/2015 10:37:00 PM

Fantastic write Arthur! Man is the most cruel being on earth draped in caste, creed n religion n boundaries, n hence wars n bloodshed,, do other beings ever believe in visas n belongings in terms of land? Free to move anywhere in this universe at their will, god has created for all, hence no wars, no question of slavery or freedom!!

Arthur Vaso
Date: 7/16/2015 7:45:00 PM

I hope that even if its a slow walk, we will eventually get to a better place and treat each other with more compassion! Thanks!

Aiyah Torres

Date: 7/15/2015 9:00:00 PM

The reality that the world cannot hide.. many have suffered from cruelty ,war ,injustice... millions have died.. to fight for everyone's freedom. you wrote 'em so well in your poem, Art !!! Great job as always !! :O)

Arthur Vaso
Date: 7/16/2015 7:44:00 PM

Thank you, you are very sweet to say so Aiyah!

Jaycee Cervenka

Date: 7/15/2015 7:59:00 PM

Arthur, I ha e found exactly three of my father's poems, although I'm told there were more. The last of hthem was on the subject of this war, from someone who had been there and seen. Although unfinished, it feels like fingernails on a chalkboard, or knees after a fall on gravel. Raw, painful and bloody. His title said it all.."We're not at war...yet we die"

Jaycee Cervenka
Date: 7/15/2015 7:59:00 PM

Thank you for the tribute!