Reflections on Vietnam War Veterans' Forgiveness of Jane Fonda

When asked, the message from Vietnam War veterans is clear and unwavering: "No! Never! Never! Never! Jane Fonda is an entitled, big-mouthed, woke liberal who betrayed the American military men during a time of great instability and conflict.

The Inexcusable Betrayal of Duty

Her actions were not just a mistake, but a betrayal of the very men who risked their lives for their country. The suggestion she made could have resulted in thousands of unnecessary casualties. To this day, the anger stems from the potential loss of life and the deceitful influence she had over the public and the anti-war movement. This period in history, half a century ago, should be left in the past.

The Underlying Anger and Control

While the anger has not subsided, there has been some control imposed over it. The veteran shared that the anger was almost 50 years later at a ceremony thanking all veterans during a cowboy action shoot. This release provided an outlet for the pent-up rage, which was directed towards Fonda’s role in the conflict. Despite the deep-seated resentment, the veteran acknowledges the ability to manage his emotions, preventing them from overwhelming him.

Ambivalence and Moving Forward

The veteran expresses ambivalence towards Fonda, although she remains a constant topic of discussion and a symbol of that period. It is understood that she has paid a price for her actions, just as many others who made mistakes during that era. While the political leaders and societal attitudes at the time also need to be held accountable, Fonda is seen as a superficial symbol rather than a direct political figure driving the polarizing changes.

The veteran concludes with the belief that no apology from Fonda is likely to sway his stance. She committed treason, which warrants more than mere forgiveness from the veterans. The sentiment is that she should have faced the consequences of her actions, and the possibility of using her grave as a urinal highlights the level of contempt felt towards her.

Addressing the Impact on Veterans

The discourse surrounding Fonda's actions has had a lasting impact on those who served in the Vietnam War. Many veterans feel a sense of responsibility to their fellow soldiers, often impacting their daily lives and personal beliefs. The actions of Fonda, regardless of the time that has passed, serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the choices that were left open during a turbulent time in American history.

Conclusion

Their journey to forgive and the ability to control their emotions in response to Fonda's actions is a testament to the resilience and determination of Vietnam War veterans. This story paints a picture of a generation haunted by the decisions made in the heat of war, and the continuous struggle to find peace and closure.

Keywords: Vietnam war veterans, Jane Fonda, forgiveness, political dissent, war crimes