Ho Chi Minh Sandals

[11thcavsniper]

Here are a couple pair of captured Ho Chi Minh Sandals. The Large pair I got during Operation Montana Raider . Very big fellow. The metal piece with the leather strap is something I made since I got home. I found a similar item after an ambush and didn't know what it was. I asked around for awhile if anyone knew what it was. A fellow soldier said that was the NVA shoe repairman's tool for putting the rubber straps into the tire. After I found out what it was I threw it. Wish I would of kept it but this is what it looked like. L.T.

[USCapturephotos]

Thanks for sharing these with the forum members. It's really interesting to see a pair that we know "was there" and to hear from the vet who brought them home. That is really great that you were able to figure out what that metal tool had been used for as well. I have one pair of bring back sandals that came from a 1st Cav vet. He said that he got them from a guy in a village who was pointed out as being "VC" by the other villagers. The sandals have very little wear on them though. What years were you overseas if you don't mind me asking?

Paul

[SFMike]

I used to make these for the fun of it.

That tool is a good idea-would have saved some effort.