R & R in Hawaii

During the Vietnam War U. S. service members were permitted to take 5 day leaves called R&R (Rest & Recreation). R & R destinations were: Bangkok, Hawaii, Tokyo, Austrailia, Hong Kong, Manila, Penang, Taipei, Kuala Lumper and Singapore. Hawaii was the usual destination for married servicemen.

Carol and I had been separated about 10 months when we met in Hawaii on December 20th, 1967. I can still remember flying from Danang to Hawaii and then being bused to Fort DeRussy the Army's R & R Welcome Center where I was to meet Carol. I felt very excited yet anxious after not seeing or talking with her for so long. I could not remember what her voice sounded like and wondered if I would recognize her when I first saw her. All those concerns quickly quickly disappeared when we met at the Center. I knew her immediately and found out how wonderful it was to hold her again. I could not wait to leave the Welcome Center and be by ourselves. We left the Center after receiving some instructions on local customs and a serious warning to me to make sure I was at the airport on time for my return flight to Vietnam.

We stayed at a small inexpensive hotel off of the main street called "Aloha Punawai" and went shopping for some clothing e.g. flowered shirt, mini mumu's and sun glasses. Once outfitted we went almost directly to Waikiki Beach to just lay in the sun together. We visited the International Market Place as well as the Ala Moana Shopping Center but otherwise most of our time was spent eating at nice restaurants, laying on the beach or just being together.

The days passed very quickly and we found ourselves saying good bye again on Christmas Day. It was difficult and wrenching for both of us to be separated again and for me to head back to Vietnam. Our only encouragement was knowing my tour was almost over.