Retired U.S. Vietnam War Veterans in Vietnam: A Life Alongside Lower Costs and Cultural Connection

The number of retired U.S. Vietnam War veterans residing in Vietnam has been estimated to be several thousand. With many veterans now in their late 60s and older, the declining number of living veterans is a significant factor. For these individuals, Vietnam offers a lower cost of living and the chance to reconnect with the country where they served.

The Attraction: A Lower Cost of Living

One of the main draws for retired U.S. Vietnam War veterans moving to Vietnam is the lower cost of living. The appeal of a country where daily expenses are considerably lower than in the United States is undeniable. Many veterans have chosen to settle in Vietnam, enjoying the modest cost of living and the opportunity to live more comfortably than they might back home.

Reconnecting With History and Culture

For many of these veterans, the opportunity to reconnect with the place where they served is a significant factor. The memories and experiences from their time in Vietnam are a cherished part of their lives, and Vietnam provides a setting to revisit and honor their past. Living in Vietnam can provide a sense of closure and a chance to form new bonds with the local people, a connection that might not be possible in other parts of the world.

Personal Accounts and Experiences

A retired U.S. military veteran, who served in Vietnam from 1970 to 1972 and 1974 to 18 April 1975, shares his experiences. He has lived in Vietnam since 1997, noting the change in the country over the decades. He mentions that his late wife had family in Vietnam, and the people are pleasant, making the cost of living so affordable that he can live comfortably with a staff and near good medical facilities.

Another veteran, Sam Eaton, shares his story, witnessing the changes in Vietnam and the challenges of acquiring Vietnamese citizenship. He highlights the difference in residency requirements, noting that the American requirements are often less strict. He also emphasizes the cultural benefits, particularly the presence of strong women who he found trustworthy, stating, “I could trust her to cover my back if need be.”

The Community: A Warm Welcome

Despite the challenges, the community of U.S. veterans in Vietnam is thriving. Sam Eaton notes that “They won’t ask you if you were a veteran,” and instead are curious about what brought you to the country. The warm welcome and freedom to explore Vietnamese culture are attractive to many. However, it is essential to understand that living conditions and opportunities differ from those in many other South East Asian countries.

The veterans are part of a long-standing trend of individuals coming to Vietnam to do good and contribute to the community. This renewed interest in Vietnam reflects a desire to enrich the lives of the local people and maybe also to find a place that feels like home. The Vietnamese government, though communist, has shown a willingness to accommodate these individuals, allowing them to live and work in the country.

The Future: A Place to Call Home

The future for many retired U.S. Vietnam War veterans living in Vietnam looks promising. They can enjoy the benefits of a lower cost of living, cultural immersion, and a sense of being a part of a community that reveres their contributions. While challenges such as acquiring citizenship exist, the overall sentiment is one of contentment and fulfillment. For those veterans looking for a quiet life away from the many stresses of the U.S., Vietnam offers a peaceful retirement.