Journal #14: The Things They Carried

After reading The Things They Carried it really gave me insight to what war was like for soldiers in the Vietnam War. The Vietnam War has always intrigued me so I have seen many documentaries and mini series on this subject. Obviously, being a soldier would not be enjoyable, but it was not always up to the individual to decide whether or not they wanted to go to war, like Tom O’brien. In the beginning of this sequence of stories about Vietnam O’brien described the basic necessities that the soldiers carried, “…P-38 can openers, pocket knives, heat tabs, wristwatches, dog tags, mosquito repellent, gum, candy, cigarettes, salt tablets, packets of Kool-Aid, ligthers, matches, sewing kits, Military Payment Certificates, C rations, and two or three canteens of water”(p.1459). He then went into detail describing what other soldiers brought along with them – things they considered important. I would have carried photos and letters just like Lieutenant Cross did. I would carry photos mainly of my family and very close friends because it would give you something to look back on and encourage you that you are in war for more people than just yourself. Along with this I would carry a diary so that I could keep track of time and later on read about events of the past. Having a diary would also be helpful to write down express thoughts and emotions – it is a way of venting so that you do not have to keep everything you have endured on your mind 24/7. It would also serve a purpose after the war and could be passed down for generations, history is very important in society. One thing that I own today that I would have taken with me is a Saint Michael the Archangel pendant I have blessed by the Pope - for Catholics he is considered a guardian angel. I am not extremely religious but I take it with me places that I feel I will need help with matters that are beyond my control. It would give me a sense of hope and peace of mind.