Why the served
What economic condition on reservations pushed many Native Americans to serve in the military?
Poverty, Economic Pressure, Lack of jobs
How did the draft affect Native Americans during the Vietnam War?
Native Americans were hit harder due to fewer ways to avoid it.
What type of military roles were most Native American soldiers placed in during Vietnam?
Front-line combat roles
What identity conflict did many Native American soldiers experience during the war?
Balancing Native identity with serving as a U.S. soldier
What long-standing tradition encouraged many Native Americans to serve in the military?
Tradition of military service across generations.
Why were Native Americans less able to avoid the draft compared to other groups?
Limited access to college deferments, medical exemptions, and legal resources
What stereotypes led the military to assign Native soldiers to dangerous combat roles?
Beliefs about tracking skills, navigation, endurance, or comfort in harsh environments
Why did fighting in Vietnam create moral conflict for many Native American soldiers?
They saw similarities between U.S. actions in Vietnam and the historical treatment of Native peoples
Why did some Native Americans believe military service could help them gain respect in U.S society?
They hoped service would lead to --> Recognition, acceptance, or belonging. Or becoming more "american"
Approximately what percentage of Native American soldiers volunteered during the Vietnam War?
About 90%
Why was serving as a point man especially dangerous?
First to encounter enemies, ambushes, mines, or gunfire
Which Native American Marine said, “This is our land,” to explain why Native people served?
Peter MacDonald