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Arthur Toegemann
Providence, Rhode Island, USA
I protested the war in Vietnam, as a high school student. NPR reported that the ambassador from Vietnam has referred to Americans who protested the war as the conscience of our country.
I made of point of my protest to the Selective Service, refusing an academic deferment, so the board said I was insane, 4-F. I didn't qualify as a conscientious objector, not to the board, altho I do literally. This has hobbled me ever since, in ways that I don't think 2000 words can communicate.
I write and even perform songs about the war; I have rejected the Carter pardon (with all due respect), demanding commendation instead. And, I must tell you, I am disappointed in NPR's language used in it's history of the war: there never was a South Vietnam. The division at the 17th latitude was contingent upon elections to be held within the years 1954 and 1956, elections so fatally obstructed by "Premier" Diem, backed by the United States. The U.S. has yet to recognize this, and wallows in psychotic denial instead.
It is now the year 2000. Don't forget to vote.
Of course, there's more if you like. I need credit for any excerpts used.
Thank-you.
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