Introduction

The Vietnam War was a complex and tumultuous period in American history, characterized by a mixed force of draftees and volunteers. Contrary to popular belief, the term 'career soldier' was commonly referred to as a 'lifer' by servicemen. This article explores the composition of the US Army in Vietnam, the terms used, and the myths surrounding the role of draftees.

Myths and Realities

Myths often surround the composition of the US forces during the Vietnam War, particularly the notion that the majority of servicemen were draftees. Recent research and records indicate that only approximately one-third of those in combat were draftees, and the overall percentage of draftees in the entire Vietnam force was even lower. Approximately 35% of the force in Vietnam were draftees, with a significant number of volunteers in combat positions, who often performed exceptionally well. This dispels the myth that draftees were predominantly in combat roles.

The Term 'Lifer'

One of the most common terms used to refer to a career soldier during the Vietnam War was 'lifer.' A 'lifer' was a serviceman who was likely to serve at least 20 years on active duty, and many exceeded that duration. This term was used across all branches of the US military, reflecting the career-oriented nature of these soldiers.

Survival and Combat Roles

Contrary to popular belief, draftees were not primarily in combat roles. Because of the severe casualties in Vietnam, many draftees were assigned support roles away from the frontlines. These roles included non-combat positions, such as mechanics, clerks, and other support staff. The Army used the term 'RA,' which stood for 'Regular Army,' to distinguish draftees from those who enlisted. Similarly, the Marine Corps did not differentiate between draftees and volunteers through specific terminology, though both groups faced high casualty rates.

The Performance of Draftees

Despite the myths surrounding them, draftees in Vietnam performed as well, if not better, than their volunteer counterparts. In fact, a significant percentage of draftees were volunteers, suggesting a willingness to serve even in difficult conditions. This is particularly noteworthy given the social and political climate of the time, where many individuals volunteered knowing the risks involved.

The Impact on Terminology

Slang terms and nicknames played a crucial role in the everyday language of individuals in the field. One such term was 'FNG,' which stood for 'Fresh No. Gu. (Fresh No. Graduate)', and referred to a new soldier rather than a draftee. This term highlights the camaraderie and mutual respect among servicemen, regardless of whether they were draftees or volunteers.

Conclusion

The composition of the US forces during the Vietnam War presents a nuanced picture. While draftees made up a significant portion of the force, they were not primarily in combat roles and often filled support positions. The term 'lifer' was widely used to denote career soldiers who committed to long-term service. The performance of draftees in Vietnam was generally positive, and the myths surrounding their experiences help to contextualize the challenges and realities faced by all servicemen during this period.