SAIGON 60-61 VIETNAM and Nude Lady Logo Vietnam War Year 1960 Zippo Lighter

Description: Up for your collection is a vintage Vietnam war Zippo lighter PAT. 2517191, made in 1960. Front case features inscribed SAIGON 60-61 VIETNAM and a Nude Lady logo. Back case inscription reads: ALWAYS RIPPED OR ALWAYS STONED I MADE IT A YEAR I'M GOING HOME.In 1960-1961, Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City) was a pivotal center in the early stages of the Vietnam War, witnessing the gradual escalation of U.S. involvement and increasing conflict between the South Vietnamese government and Viet Cong (VC) insurgents. While these years are sometimes seen as the "prelude" to full-scale American military intervention, significant developments took place in Saigon and across South Vietnam that would shape the course of the conflict. Key Events in Saigon, 1960-1961 Rise of the Viet Cong Insurgency: By 1960, communist forces in South Vietnam, known as the Viet Cong, had gained momentum in organizing resistance against the South Vietnamese government led by President Ngo Dinh Diem. The VC began to conduct more aggressive guerrilla operations, including bombings, assassinations, and attacks on government and U.S. facilities in and around Saigon. The National Liberation Front (NLF), the political organization for the Viet Cong, was officially established in December 1960, solidifying the communist push in the South. U.S. Military and Diplomatic Presence: Saigon served as the base of operations for the growing U.S. military and diplomatic presence in South Vietnam. Although the U.S. had not yet committed combat troops, it provided military advisors and aid to the South Vietnamese Army (ARVN). The Military Assistance Advisory Group (MAAG) had been advising and training ARVN forces since the 1950s, and its role expanded during this period as the threat from the Viet Cong intensified. Counterinsurgency Efforts and Diem’s Government: Diem's government, facing rising insurgency, implemented counterinsurgency measures that included increased military action and social programs intended to curb Viet Cong influence in rural areas. However, many of Diem's policies, such as the forced relocation of villagers into "Strategic Hamlets" to isolate them from Viet Cong influence, proved unpopular and often backfired, leading to widespread discontent. Buddhist Protests and Political Tension: While major Buddhist protests against the Diem regime became more prominent later in the 1960s, the seeds of religious and political dissatisfaction were already evident in this period. Diem's policies, which were perceived as favoring Catholics and repressive toward Buddhists, stirred unease in Saigon and across the country. CIA Involvement and Intelligence Operations: During this time, the CIA increased its intelligence operations in Saigon, working with Diem’s government to gather intelligence on the Viet Cong and other potential communist threats. The CIA also supported some of Diem's controversial programs, although later reports indicated that some U.S. officials were beginning to doubt his effectiveness and popularity as a leader. Turning Point Toward Greater U.S. Involvement: In 1961, the Kennedy administration assessed the deteriorating situation in South Vietnam and began increasing military and economic aid. By the end of 1961, President Kennedy had authorized a boost in the number of U.S. military advisors from around 900 to nearly 3,200. This marked a turning point, setting the stage for the gradual escalation of U.S. military involvement that would lead to full-scale intervention by 1965.Impact on Saigon and South Vietnam The 1960-61 period marked the beginning of an increasingly violent and polarized Vietnam. Saigon, as the center of the South Vietnamese government and the hub for American operations, saw the effects of political and social instability. The mounting insurgency and the U.S. commitment to preventing a communist takeover of South Vietnam transformed Saigon into a focal point of Cold War tensions, setting the stage for the city’s future as the capital of an embattled nation.Lighter is in good working condition and matching Zippo insert PAT. 2517191 sparks, but no fluid (for safety purpose). Zippo case shows discolored spots due to heavy use, but hinge is strong with solid cam spring, sound click and snap.I will ship items within 24 hours after payment is posted. Tracking information is available.Please visit my store for more war items. Thanks for looking! Shipping PolicyAt eBay, we are committed to providing a positive shopping experience for our customers. We offer both domestic and international shipping options to ensure you can get your items quickly and safely. We offer a variety of shipping services, which vary by item, size and delivery address.Domestic Shipping:Items shipped within the U.S. are generally delivered via USPS or UPS depending on the size and weight of the item. Domestic orders usually take 3-5 days to be delivered. Any additional fees, taxes or duties are the responsibility of the customer.International Shipping:Items shipped outside of the U.S. may be subject to import taxes, customs duties, and other fees levied by the destination country. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. eBay is not responsible for any additional fees or delays due to customs.Shipping Charges:The cost of shipping and handling will be clearly stated on the listing page. Any additional fees or taxes may be added to the total cost.We hope this shipping policy helps clarify our shipping process. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding shipping.

Price: 140 USD

Location: Westminster, California

End Time: 2024-11-14T22:10:51.000Z

Shipping Cost: 6 USD