Additionally, only about 25% of Vietnam soldiers were drafted and 85% of soldiers were able to make a successful transition into civilian life. Because of this, the Navy fought almost a separate war from the one on land. Other ships, like the one my Grandfather was on, were out in the Gulf of Tonkin involved in naval combat or creating a blockade to prevent supplies from reaching enemy forces. Some US Navy ships were more inland providing supplies and medical support by means of rivers.

He was also awarded two medals for his time in service.ĭuring the Vietnam War, the US Navy played a couple of different roles. He was awarded the Domain of the Golden Dragon which is an unofficial Navy Award given to soldiers who cross the International Date Line during their service.

He served from 1962-1964 joining immediately after graduating high school. He was a plane captain working with the Phantom II Jet aboard the USS Constellation. He was an E-3 Navy soldier who fought in the VFA-143 fighter squadron, affectionately called the “Pukin’ Dogs”. Melvin Gene Milstead was born in Hyattsville, Maryland on November 21st, 1943. Gene Milstead sporting his official “Pukin’ Dogs” hat (2020).

Us navy plumbers during vietnam war