Special Programs Look At The Impact Of The Vietnam War

On April 27 and 28, West Virginia Public Broadcasting presents two nights of programs that look back at the era of the Vietnam War, 1964 through 1975. From the politics of the time, the protests, the casualties and finally the fall of Saigon, these programs reflect on the impact of the events that saw about 36,578 West Virginians serving, and ultimately reporting the highest death rate among all states. 

Watch these programs at the scheduled broadcast times on WVPB, or afterward for a limited time at wvpublic.org. You can also download and print a flyer about these programs.

The Draft    Monday, April 27 at 9 p.m.    The question of who serves in America’s military has shaped battle strategy and foreign policy and stranded Americans in uniform for years on distant battlefields. From the Civil War to the conflicts of the Vietnam era, forced military service has torn the nation apart — and sometimes, as in WWII, united Americans in a common purpose. Hear how a single, controversial issue continues to define America.

Dick Cavett’s Vietnam    Monday, April 27 at 10 p.m. 

On the 40th anniversary of the official end of the Vietnam War, this program examines the war and impact on America through the prism of interviews conducted by the iconic host of “The Dick Cavett Show,” which featured thoughtful conversation and debate from all sides of the political spectrum. The program combines interviews from Cavett’s shows with archival footage, network news broadcasts and audio/visual material from the National Archives to provide insight and perspective on this controversial chapter of American history.

The Day the 60’s Died    Tuesday, April 28 at 8 p.m.

Credit Courtesy of Howard Ruffner

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In May 1970, four students were shot dead at Kent State. The mayhem that followed has been called the most divisive moment in American history since the Civil War. From college campuses to the jungles of Cambodia, to the Nixon White House, The Day the 60’s Died returns to that turbulent spring 45 years ago.

Last Days in Vietnam: American Experience    Tuesday, April 28 at 9 p.m.

April 1975. During the chaotic final days of the Vietnam War, as the North Vietnamese Army closed in on 

Credit American Experience

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American Experience

  Saigon, South Vietnamese resistance crumbled. City after city and village after village fell to the north while the few U.S. diplomats and military operatives still in the country contemplated withdrawal. With the lives of thousands of South Vietnamese hanging in the balance, those in control faced an impossible choice––who would go and who would be left behind to face brutality, imprisonment, or even death.  

This Academy Award-nominated film, directed and produced by Rory Kennedy, is scheduled in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of the fall of Saigon. The broadcast will contain additional footage not seen during the film’s theatrical release.