My assignment as a 24 year old inductee was interesting. Working in a tiny Medical Detachment revealed an intimacy few Vietnam soldiers, perhaps, experienced. I worked for 5 doctors and two dentists and most of all befriended Australian medics. We were kindred spirits from the get-go. Their friendship made life in fatigues plausible as well as social.
The Aussies we interested in America and Americans; I enjoyed their "Down Under" stories. Then, in July of 1967 great news came in the opening up of Sydney as an R&R port. I was ready.
Not everybody is aware of available R&R destinations. The following shows the sophistication of choices: 1. Hawaii 2. Sydney, Australia 3. Bangkok, Thailand 4. Hong Kong 5. Kuala Lampur ( Penang) 6. Manila , Philippines 7. Singapore 8. Taipei, Taiwan and 9. Tokyo, Japan.
Before Australia opening up in 1967, soldiers either went to Hawaii to meet their wives or take a pick of an oriental city. I heard a lot about Taipei, Tokyo or Penang.
I had been steeped in the ways of the Australians for months and was really enthused about my Pan American Flight "Down Under." Better yet, I had 2 R&Rs..one in Sydney and the other in Melbourne (on my own)!
Australia was the highlight of my tour of duty... 12 months and 12 days!
So many memories.. so many friends including Red Cross workers. Fifty years later Vietnam to me was a game of chance and I won! Then in 1969 came a $300 Bonus $1,985 in today's money!....That's all.
2 packs a day Bob
August, 1967 Vung Tau
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