I think you are missing the point.  The war was not about defending this country but only to serve the American empire.  No Thanks.

People had choices.  They could give into big government and "serve", or they could just say No.  I said no.   No way would I have gone and fought in such a despicable war.  I was fortunate that I qualified for deferments.  But I was seriously thinking of moving to Canada if they didn't work out.  I was also fortunate as I didn't just rely upon the main stream media for news.  I knew that Vietnam was not a valid war.  A lot of Americans are brainwashed into thinking America can do no wrong but this is far from the truth.

Piece of advice.  Just say No to war.  There are far better options than just killing people and making pot holes half way around the world.