DMZ tour Vietnam/private DMZ tour Hue
Saigon to the DMZ
Several months before departing from home, I learned that the  Vietnam war was know as the American war to the Vietnamese. This made me look at it from the perspectives of both countries, which I had never done before. There were atrocities committed by the United States and Vietnam. Many Vietnamese civilians were  also killed. Although there was a lot of devastation from the war, Vietnam still remains a beautiful country.

December 25th (Christmas) was the last day of my Saigon to the DMZ tour. It was also the culmination of a journey that began when I was in high school. I became intrigued with the Vietnam (American) war and wanted to learn more about what happened and why the United States became involved. I even voiced my concerns about POW’s (Prisoners of War) & MIA’s (Missing in Action) that may have been left behind, to the President in several letters, which the Department of Defense sent a response.
The day commenced with Thien (our driver)) picking me up at 7:00 AM, to begin the nearly two hour drive to Dong Ha in the Quang Tri Province. There I met Mr. Van Vu, the owner of Annam Tour. He is also a historian on the Vietnam (American) war.

The Rockpile

Khe Sanh Combat Base

The Peace Bridge over the Ben Hai River.

Vinh Moc Tunnels

Mr. Vu is also a photographer and was able to help as I tried to figure out my new mirrorless camera.

I am a little claustrophobic but managed to survive my tour in the Vinh Moc tunnels. There were a few close calls when I thought I was going to loose my composure though. Thankfully the other tourists arrived when we were near the exit.

Saying farewell before heading back to Hue.

Mr. Vu gave me a canteen and spoon as a souvenir. They were used by the U.S. soldiers and found after the war ended. This definitely meant a lot to me.  In fact, I was so excited that I took a picture and shared it with my family and friends.

There are still many remnants of the war that remain in Vietnam. In the Quang Tri Provence, there are unexploded ordinances or land mines, that continue to claim victims.  Although there are organizations working on mine removal, it is a slow process..
I want to thank the U.S. Vietnam Veterans for their  service. Your sacrifices will never be forgotten.
Many thanks to Mr. Van Vu of Annam Tour. Also to my awesome tour guides/friends Tim (Saigon) & Sunny (Da Nang, Hoian, Hue) and driver Mr. Thien. You guys are the best!!!

Tour detail
Sai Gon to the DMZ