Vietnam War's Hidden Rules: Michelin, Russia, and the Untold Story of American Losses

The Vietnam War: Unexpected Rules of Engagement The Vietnam War, a conflict etched in history, continues to reveal its complexities. A recent video by WHAT HISTORY! sheds light on the unusual rules of engagement that governed American forces, impacting the war's outcome in unforeseen ways. The video focuses on two key aspects: the restrictions on targeting rubber trees and the limitations on engaging North Vietnamese anti-aircraft missile systems. The presenter, Eric, explains that American forces were prohibited from destroying rubber trees in Southeast Asia due to their ownership by the Michelin company. This decision, driven by political and economic considerations, left American soldiers vulnerable in these areas. "They were not allowed to artillery strikes in these rubber tree orchards," Eric explains, emphasizing the impact of this limitation on military strategy. Similarly, the rules of engagement prevented attacks on North Vietnamese anti-aircraft missiles due to the involvement of Russian personnel. This decision, again driven by political considerations, resulted in a significant number of American pilots being shot down. The video highlights the tension between military objectives and political realities. The video's analysis underscores the intricate interplay of military strategy, political diplomacy, and corporate interests during the Vietnam War. It offers a valuable perspective on the human cost of these complex decisions, prompting a deeper understanding of this historical conflict.