THE END OF THE WAR

A. Nixon 1. Vietnamization: Nixon’s policy to gradually withdraw US forces while giving the South Vietnamese a more active fighting role 2. Goals

a. reduce US casualties b. quiet protests at home c. “Peace with Honor” –to maintain dignity while withdrawing from the war

3. Peace Agreement (1973) a. A cease-fire b. US troops left and fighting resumed c. South Vietnam appealed to the US; we sent aid but not troops4. The Fall of Saigon (1975) a. NVA troops overtook Saigon and the South surrendered b. US Ambassador and his staff were evacuated from the Embassy in Saigon

B. Legacy 1. Veterans

a. Came home to an ungrateful nation b. Suffered from drug and alcohol abuse c. Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome (nightmares, flashbacks, severe headaches, memory lapses) d. “The Wall” completed in 1982 to honor 58,000+ Americans who died

2. America a. Vietnam led to a distrust in government b. War Powers Act 1) President must inform Congress of troop commitments overseas within 48 hours 2) Troops may stay overseas for 60 days without Congressional approval 3) Congress may approve an additional 30 days if needed without a formal declaration of war