Not all were, but.....
Some were, a few I knew personally. All of whom came in through LAX, in Uniform.
True it has become somewhat of an Urban Legend, as with all such tales greatly exagerated.
But, still all of us lost something in country. Some their youthful innocence, others health, 55,783 thier lives.
It's 30 years behind us now, but for some it lives forever. They don't talk about it, but I know that 1,000 yard stare you can see in their eyes when they think no one is looking.
Now we're seeing a fresh batch of young people coming home with the very same ancient eyes as we did then. I sincerly hope the lessons from Nam were well learned by the health sector.
But, recalling a recent visit to the VA Hospital a few days ago..........I seriously doubt it.