The International People's Tribunal of Conscience in Paris made its final judgement yesterday, concluding that the use of dioxin by the US military in Viet Nam from 1961 to 1971 was a war crime against humanity.
I was born in Melbourne, Australia. In my youth, I was a draft resister and anti-war activist against the American War in Viet Nam, and Australia's participation in it.
I 'dropped out' of a teacher training course to work full-time against the war and for peace, a life-changing decision.
Later, I lived in Cassilis, East Gippsland, for an alternative country lifestyle.
In 1996, I came to Viet Nam on an adventure holiday with Intrepid Travel company, which became another life-changing event. I found my new home here in Viet Nam, and have worked as a tour group leader ever since, travelling up and down this amazing and beautiful country.
In Viet Nam, even my name changed to "Lemon Juice" Bruce, but really I am still the same Bruce McPhie.
What an inspiring country this is. The anti-Viet Nam propaganda and misinformation of the past sometimes continues today. It is not easy to clear the mind of a lifetime of this, but when you discover the true magic of Viet Nam you are richly rewarded, enlightened, and understand the world in a whole new way.
"Come to Viet Nam, and visit the world!"
No comments:
Post a Comment