After some bus karaoke and hair braiding, we arrived at Handicapped Handicrafts. The step by step process for the art pieces was fascinating to watch. The use of everyday items, like eggshells, to make magnificent works just goes to show you don’t need state of the art, expensive materials to make something special. Each piece, even if they have the same design, turns out a little differently, so each person gets their own special piece. The work to keep those impacted by Agent Orange employed and supported was admirable and I am happy I was able to support their mission. Everything made is so beautiful and I’m sad I couldn’t get everything in there. I also had the most delicious mango smoothie of my entire life, so no regrets in my purchasing decision today!
Once we arrived at the Cu Chi tunnels, we were met with all sorts of war machines. Tanks, a plane, and a helicopter (that I went in) were on display on the lawn (seen above). After looking around a bit, we made our way to the tunnels, but first we learned about their ventilation system. The large mound, which resembled a termite mound, allowed air to circulate into the tunnels below (seen below). Like everything done, the method of ventilation was strategic to keep the tunnels’ whereabouts secret. Additionally, when cooking underground, the smoke used passed through many rooms and exited away from the tunnels. They also only cooked once, in the morning, so the fog would conceal the smoke. Items used by the US soldiers were placed around near the airways and entrances, so that the dogs could not locate the tunnels. The tunnels were mostly used at night so that the US soldiers could not track those using them. When building them, the dirt used was moved via a bamboo basket to the river so that the tunnel construction left no trace. It seems the Viet Cong thought of everything to keep the tunnels concealed. So many steps were taken to ensure that these tunnels were effective and undetectable. The secret entrances, marked by a large rock or tree, may be one of the most famous parts of the Vietnam War. After trying the tunnel for myself, it is truly impressive how people were able to quickly maneuver, especially in the stressful context of the war. Their understanding of the land, innovative problem solving, and strategic usage of new and old methods of warfare kept the Viet Cong thriving, from old animal traps repurposed to catch American GIs (seen below) to heavy miliary machinery.
The tunnels were not only used for fighting, but they also had three levels (seen below). The first was used for meetings, cooking, hospitals, and traveling. The second kept those who could not fight safe, like the elderly and children. Finally, the deepest layer provided a bomb shelter. After the bombs finished dropping, everything left behind was repurposed. Extra explosives were used to make land mines, shrapnel made shovels, and tires made shoes. One of the most ingenious things the Viet Cong Soldiers did, in my opinion, was wear their shoes backwards so it looked like they were running in the wrong direction. Nothing was wasted, everything could be used for the war effort and for survival.
Vietnamese history is full of incredibly intelligent, resourceful, and resilient people. Fighting the United States Military is no walk in the park, yet the Viet Cong used ‘simple yet effective’ methods to keep the American soldiers confused and vulnerable.