Vietnam veterans. Their problems continue.

From August 5, 1964, the onset of the Vietnam War, until the official ending of the war, May 7, 1975, the Vietnam War tore at the fabric of American society. That tear has not yet been mended. Our nation as a whole has opposed thoughtful reflection about the Vietnam War, and our veterans continue to suffer its consequences. This article summarizes some of the national and psychological problems caused by the war. Special characteristics of the Vietnam War that contributed to these problems are discussed, and post-traumatic stress disorder is reviewed.