10 Best Broadway shows

1776

1776 is one of the classic shows on Broadway, covering the story of John Adams, as well as his work with the Continental Congress to help the country gain independence. The story follows General George Washington and his troops during the American Revolution, but particularly the fight with the Red Coats.

The Civil War

This war is one of the bloodiest and most intense conflicts in the history of the USA, so it couldn’t be missed from Broadway. It brings insights into Confederate and Union soldiers, but it also covers slaves and civilians who tell a story in different ways.

Quite a few historical figures are mentioned in this show as well.

This Is the Army

This Broadway show is often overlooked, yet it’s extremely deep and emotional. The story follows a father and his son, who have the only purpose to entertain troops with all kinds of patriotic music. The story spans across two wars and has a nice surprise towards the end.

White Christmas

This story isn’t necessarily about war but about people who have experienced traumas together in war. Two veterans from World War II decide to come together and find some of their old friends from the army. Their goal is to surprise a former general who lives in Vermont.

It’s an emotional story that brings back memories from the war but also displays a feeling of affection and camaraderie.

An American in Paris

An American soldier has seen and done everything. After getting to Paris during World War II, he decides he doesn’t have much to come back to, so he decides to remain there.

The soldier starts a new life away from home. With the help of his friends, he’s ready to start a bright future, away from all the drama he’s witnessed before.

Hamilton

Hamilton is often considered a masterpiece and a must see for every Broadway fan. The story follows Alexander Hamilton, who’s helping General George Washington develop a top-notch strategy during the American Revolution.

This isn’t all about planning but also about planning a bright future for the country once the conflict is over.

Hamilton isn’t new, but it still draws an impressive audience. While Stubhub presents itself as a great platform for booking tickets, one may question, “Is Stubhub legit” for tickets? Absolutely, but booking early is a must to avoid disappointment.

Shenandoah

A peaceful widower living in Virginia is doing his best to stay away from the conflict dividing his country. He doesn’t believe war can solve anything, but somehow, he’s drawn in. One day, his youngest son is captured by Union soldiers.

Forced by a harsh reality, he needs to gather his friends and family to join the conflict against his will.

On the Town

Three American sailors were given a quick break from the conflict in 1944. They’re allowed to get out for 24 hours and enjoy a short leave to recharge their batteries. They try to make the most out of it, so they head over to New York City for the experience of a lifetime.

South Pacific

South Pacific is a story of love, emotion and prejudice. It follows a Marine Lieutenant and Navy nurse dealing with a series of issues, but especially racial prejudice. The world is at war and an extra conflict is the last thing needed. Will love manage to beat racism in such problematic times?

Miss Saigon

Sometimes, the real drama occurs after the actual war and not during the conflict. Two Marines manage to survive the horrors and drama in Vietnam, so they’re finally ready to come back home. They want to leave everything behind, but can they?

A new life awaits them. It’s a harsh reality, but at the same time, they also need to face the constant nightmares related to the people they left behind on a completely different continent. It’s a continuous battle between common sense and past traumas, so well made that you almost feel like being there.

Bottom line, while there are quite a few shows combining war and music on Broadway, the above mentioned ones stand out in the crowd with how they can transpose emotion and drama in a unique manner.​

The post ​Top 10 Broadway Shows Mixing Music and the Military appeared first on Air Force in Vietnam.

For the first time, helicopters played a pivotal role, not only in transportation and medical evacuations but also in combat and strategic assaults, earning the moniker “helicopter war.” Jets streaked across the skies, delivering payloads that would determine the outcome of ground engagements. But even in this age of technological warfare, there remained an age-old constant: the personal gear of the soldiers. Among these, knives, whether they were combat knives, survival tools, or personal possessions, narrate silent tales of valor, survival, and the gritty realities of jungle warfare. Let’s delve into some of the iconic knives of the Vietnam War era.

The M7 Bayonet

Introduced in the early 1960s, the M7 Bayonet was primarily designed for the M16 rifle, the standard-issue rifle for U.S. troops during the Vietnam War. The M7 had a 6.5-inch blade and an overall length of nearly 12 inches. Its primary purpose was to convert the rifle into a spear-like weapon for close-quarter combat, but soldiers also utilized it for a range of utility tasks.

USAF Pilot Survival Knife

An essential tool for Air Force pilots, this knife was designed to aid pilots who might find themselves downed and stranded in hostile territory. Featuring a 5-inch Parkerized blade with a serrated upper spine, the tool was built to be sturdy and reliable, useful for everything from cutting parachute cords to hacking through dense vegetation.

Gerber Mark II

A fighting knife by design, the Gerber Mark II was favored by many servicemen for its double-edged blade and distinctive look. The blade’s wasp-waisted shape, inspired by the ancient Roman gladius, made it suitable for both slashing and thrusting. Its black oxide finish ensured stealth, minimizing reflections.

SOG Knife

The SOG (Studies and Observations Group) knife was developed for the covert ops running incursions into North Vietnam and the surrounding areas. Modeled after the V-44 knife used in WWII, the SOG knife featured a blade length of around 6.75 inches and was known for its impeccable sharpness and durability.

Ka-Bar Combat Knife

Although associated more with World War II and the Korean War, the Ka-Bar combat knife was also a familiar sight in Vietnam. Its 7-inch blade and sturdy leather handle made it a reliable tool and weapon for the Marines and other service branches.

Randall Model 14

The Randall Model 14 was a favorite among those who could afford to get their hands on it. It wasn’t standard military issue, but its 7.5-inch stainless steel blade and sturdy build made it a popular choice among officers and other servicemen.

Beyond these notable blades, numerous pocket knives, machetes, and other blades were used during the conflict. Many soldiers carried personal knives, gifts from loved ones, or purchases made before deployment. These knives were tools, weapons, and often, a symbol of personal identity in the vastness of a challenging war.

Each knife, whether mass-produced or handcrafted, tells a story. They were the silent companions of soldiers, pilots, and marines as they navigated the rigors of jungle combat, air raids, and covert operations. Even after the war, many veterans kept their knives as cherished mementos, symbols of resilience, and survival.

FAQs

1. Why did pilots specifically need survival knives during the Vietnam War?

Pilots often flew over dense jungle terrain, and in the event of being shot down or experiencing mechanical failures, they’d find themselves isolated in hostile territory. A survival knife was an essential tool for building shelter, gathering food, self-defense, and signaling for rescue.

2. Was the Gerber Mark II solely used during the Vietnam War?

No. While the Gerber Mark II gained popularity during the Vietnam era, its production continued afterward, and it has been used in various capacities by military personnel in subsequent conflicts.

3. Why were personal knives significant to soldiers?

Beyond their utility, personal knives often carried sentimental value. They could be gifts from loved ones, reminders of home, or a symbol of personal identity amidst the chaos of war.

4. How did the design of the SOG knife differ from other knives used during the Vietnam War?

The SOG knife was inspired by the V-44 knife used in WWII and was particularly known for its sharpness and durability. Its design catered to the needs of covert ops in North Vietnam and neighboring regions.

5. Were all the knives standard military issue?

No. While some knives like the M7 Bayonet and the USAF Pilot’s Survival Knife were standard issue, many soldiers and officers opted for custom or personally-purchased , such as the Randall Model 14.

Noblie Custom Knives: A Testament to Craftsmanship and History

For those who possess a passion for knives and their historical significance, the allure of a finely crafted blade is undeniable. This passion is embodied by the artisans at Noblie custom knives. Beyond merely being a workshop and store, Noblie stands as a sanctuary for every lover of knives and history. Here, one doesn’t just buy a knife; they acquire a piece of art, a slice of history, and a testament to exceptional craftsmanship. Each knife, meticulously crafted, narrates a story of tradition fused with innovation. Whether you’re a historian, a collector, or someone who appreciates the sheer beauty of a well-made blade, at this custom knife store, you’ll find a knife that isn’t just unique but is also, in many ways, a reflection of you.

Conclusion

The Vietnam War, often viewed through the lens of its large-scale engagements and political ramifications, was also a deeply personal conflict for those who served. Amidst the roar of jet engines and the rhythmic thuds of helicopter blades, the silent, steadfast presence of knives stood as a symbol of survival, hope, and resilience. Whether used in combat, for daily tasks, or held as a keepsake, these blades bridged the gap between the vast machinations of war and the individual stories of those who fought. Through the annals of history and the cold touch of steel, the legacy of these knives and their bearers continues to endure.

The post Knives of Vietnam: Blades in the Sky and on the Ground appeared first on Air Force in Vietnam.

The mid-20th century was a significant period for Vietnam as it began an active struggle for independence from the colonial powers. As the Cold War between the USSR and the US intensified, Vietnam became the place where the confrontation between the two ideological camps manifested its bloodiest forms.

The Vietnam War began in 1955 and lasted until 1975. This conflict involved not only mass vigil on the ground, but also intense aerial combat. The U.S. and its allies, faced with Vietnam’s stubborn resistance, including its air forces, made their mark on the history of the region.

The Historical Context category is an important starting point for understanding how the Vietnam Air War came to be and how it influenced subsequent developments in the region. It demonstrates how the influence of larger world forces, ideological contradictions, and the desire for independence came together in one of the most poignant and contrarian conflicts of the 20th century.

The post Historical Context appeared first on Air Force in Vietnam.