My Daily Minefield

January 15, 1962: During a press conference, President John F. Kennedy answers, “No” when asked if U.S. troops were fighting in Vietnam.

Note: Technically, Kennedy’s answer was correct. But, U.S. soldiers were serving as combat advisers with the South Vietnamese army, and U.S. pilots were flying missions with the South Vietnamese Air Force. While acting in this advisory capacity, some soldiers were wounded and killed.

January 15, 1973: President Richard M. Nixon announces a halt to military action against North Vietnam.

Note:  Direct attacks against North Vietnam stopped. Fighting continued in South Vietnam through the signing of the Paris Peace Accords on January 23rd and up until the cease fire went into effect, January 28, 1973.

Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Wall