Hello Gents,
For those unfamiliar with my background, I am MSgt Dan Whitton USMC(Ret), a historian and collector specializing in USMC Infantry Related Militaria from 1875 to Vietnam, with over 44 years of experience. My focus also includes Vietnam US Marine Advisors to the VNMC / RSSZ / ARVN / SOG / POPULAR FORCES / CAP-CAG from 1954-1975, covering their uniforms, gear, photos, and paperwork for over 33 years. I also serve as the Historian for the Vietnam Marine Advisors Association.
I’m excited to announce a new forum reference section dedicated to Vietnam Era 1954-1975 US MARINE Advisors to the South Vietnamese Marine Corps and their VNMC Advisor Uniforms. My goal is to eventually publish a detailed reference book for collectors, now that retirement allows me to dedicate more time to this passion. My extensive collection includes US Marine Vietnam Advisors uniforms, headgear, specialty clothing and field gear, photos, documents (AARs, Advisor Logs, letters, training materials, MAU log books, etc.), and captured NVA & VC items. Around 98% of my collection originates directly from former Advisors or their families, with the remaining 2% acquired from trusted sources within the hobby.
My collection spans the entire period of US Marine involvement, from the first VNMC Advisors in 1955-1957 (Capt Breckinridge & T/Sgt (GySgt) Tracy) to the final VNMC Advisor, LtCol Lukeman in 1974-1975, who oversaw the evacuation of the Marine Advisory Unit HQs as Saigon fell in 1975. While the uniforms of US Marine Advisors varied, understanding their evolution and context is crucial for collectors and historians alike, especially when considering the broader spectrum of Vietnam War era camouflage patterns, such as the iconic Tiger Stripe Uniform worn by various forces during the conflict.
The images below showcase a selection of my Vietnam Marine Advisors uniforms currently on display and in storage. These pieces represent a tangible link to the history of US Marine involvement in Vietnam and offer a glimpse into the diverse uniforms worn during this period.
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