The Rest Is History 325: Fall of Saigon: Apocalypse Now (Part 2)
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Apr 27, 2023 In a gripping recount of the final days in Saigon, the urgent and chaotic evacuation of American citizens and South Vietnamese is vividly depicted. A French businessman’s frantic attempts to salvage personal items illustrate the emotional turmoil. The aftermath reveals a devastating refugee crisis and the brutal reality of re-education camps. Insights into cinema's impact on American foreign policy juxtapose with themes of imperialism, raising questions about representation and the ignored voices of the Vietnamese. The complexities of public perception and military intervention are also explored.
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Chaos at the Embassy
- Keyes Beach, a reporter, witnessed the chaotic evacuation at the US Embassy.
- He described it as a desperate fight for survival, even having to strike a baby amidst the chaos.
White Christmas Signal
- The evacuation order was given by playing "White Christmas" on Armed Forces Radio.
- Ironically, they couldn't find the Bing Crosby version, playing a different rendition instead.
Martin's Resistance
- Ambassador Martin resisted evacuation preparations, fearing panic and betrayal.
- He even delayed cutting down a tamarind tree necessary for helicopter landings.