Nine Rules for Personnel
of U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV)

[a wallet-sized card issued to all military servicemembers arriving in the Republic of Vietnam]

The Vietnamese have paid a heavy price in suffering for their long fight against the communists. We military men are in Vietnam now because their government has asked us to help its soldiers and people in winning their struggle. The Viet Cong will attempt to turn the Vietnamese people against you. You can defeat them at every turn by the strength, understanding, and generosity you display with the people. Here are the nine simple rules:


1. Remember we are guests here. We make no demands and seek no special treatment.
   
   
2. Join with the people! Understand their life, use phrases from their language, and honor their customs and laws.
   
   
3. Treat women with politeness and respect.
   
   
4. Make personal friends among the soldiers and common people.
   
   
5. Always give the Vietnamese people the right of way.
   
   
6. Be alert to security and ready to react with your military skill.
   
   
7. Don't attract attention to yourself by loud, rude, or unusual behavior.
   
   
8. Avoid separating yourself from the people by a display of wealth or privilege.
   
   
9. Above all else, you are members of the U.S. Military Forces on a difficult mission, responsible for all your official and personal actions. Reflect honor upon yourself and the United States of America.