In the Mekong Delta region of South Vietnam,
you wouldn't have to go far to see hundreds of these boats daily.
For the people that depended on the River
to make a living, the Sanpan was not only an indispensible tool,
but a way of life. These somewhat small boats were used mainly
for transportation of Rice and Vegetables, but could transport anything
imaginable. They were known to provide even shelter and living quarters,
in an emergency.
Well, Sometimes.
Sanpans also served as people and weapons
carriers for the North Vietnamese and the Viet Cong. They operated
mainly at night, but as you will see, sometimes in broad daylight.
When a Sanpan boat member saw an American
Soldier, or a recon (spotter) aircraft, he had every right to become
very, very nervous. They knew that they were automatically suspect.
Many had good reason to think that way.
SanPan on the Mekong
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