Interesting Census Stats and “Been There” Wanabees
1,713,823 of those who served in Vietnam were still alive as of August, 1995 (census figures).
During that same Census count, the number of Americans falsely claiming to have served in-country was: 9,492,958.
As of the current Census taken during August, 2000, the surviving U.S. Vietnam Veteran population estimate is: 1,002,511. This is hard to believe, losing nearly 711,000 between ’95 and ’00. That’s 390 per day. During this Census count, the number of Americans falsely claiming to have served in-country is: 13,853,027. By this census, FOUR OUT OF FIVE WHO CLAIM TO BE VIETNAM VETS ARE NOT.
The Department of Defense Vietnam War Service Index officially provided by The War Library originally reported with errors that 2,709,918 U.S. military personnel as having served in-country. Corrections and confirmations to this errored index resulted in the addition of 358 U.S. military personnel confirmed to have served in Vietnam but not originally listed by the Department of Defense (All names are currently on file and accessible 24/7/365).
Charlie Company Vietnam 1966-1972 
I have met several men who claimed to be Vietnam veterans who I did not believe. One told me his rifle was an M-1. I told him that was the wrong war, and he insisted. Claimed that those in Vietnam who knew rifles always chose the M-1 because it shot straighter. 🙂 Personally, I do not get offended. I consider it a compliment when someone falsely claims to be a Vietnam veteran. At least that is better than back at college where many looked down upon us. One teacher led a discussion on whether Vietnam vets were responsible for their war crimes. I remember sitting there getting mad. Randy
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This is the public climate to get free or discounted treatment and services on the backs of patriots.
I saw shame on those persons who wrongfully call themselves Vietnam veterans!
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