The Vietnam War was New Zealand's longest and most controversial overseas military experience. Although this country's troop commitment and casualties were modest, the conflict aroused widespread protest and condemnation. And for those who fought in Vietnam, it was a tough homecoming.
Between the late 1940s and early 1970s New Zealanders fought in conflicts in Korea, Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. These conflicts were part of the Cold War waged between the world's 'superpowers' - the United States and the Soviet Union.
From the outset, official views in Wellington on the Vietnam conflict were shaped by general Cold War concerns and alliance considerations, alongside practical qualms about becoming directly involved.
New Zealand's alignment and participation in the Cold War was determined by the decision of the 1940s Labour government to back the United States and Great Britain (that concord was crucial) in their disagreements with the Soviet Union
New Zealand and other American allies came under increased pressure to provide combat assistance. An unenthusiastic Holyoake responded to American entreaties in December 1964 by pointing to New Zealand's commitments in Malaysia, where its forces were involved in Confrontation.
New Zealand added several other small units and groups of personnel, including members of both the RNZN and RNZAF, to its commitment in Vietnam during the period 1967 to 1969
New Zealand's limited military involvement in the Vietnam War was overshadowed by the wide-ranging debate about the conflict which erupted at home following the rise from the mid 1960s of an organised anti-Vietnam War movement.
Those few New Zealanders who experienced combat in Vietnam at first hand were left with a searing legacy. New Zealand's Vietnam veterans, like their Australian and American counterparts, have had to adjust to various problems associated with fighting in an unpopular war.
Chinese made Type 50 sub-machine gun used by Chinese and North Korean troops
during the Korean War, and supplied to the North Vietnamese Army during
the early stages of the Vietnam War.
