Vietnam // Viet Cong / National Banner
Little is known about the history of this Viet Cong banner. It was acquired as a GI bringback through private purchase in 2007. It is stated to be a flag taken from an PAVN 304th Division deserter by a (US) Special Forces interrogator in February of 1968.
However, ever since President Clinton normalized relations with Vietnam in 1995 there has been a lively trade in all types of war souvenirs, including flags, that all have the look of the pre-1975 items, although made for the Vietnamese war souvenir market. These commemorative NVA and VC flags are currently being made for parades and victory anniversary celebrations in Ho-Chi-Minh City. Presumably for Vietnamese veterans, now growing nostalgic and seeking a memento of service, a unit color or a victory or moral flag.
It is highly likely that these are made by the same shops and firms and possibly the same people using the same fabrics and techniques who made them in the 1970s. It would not be difficult for these to pass into the collector's market.
Sales Description
Stated to have been taken by a Special Forces interrogator from a deserter from the NVA 304th Div. in Feb 68, around Khe Sanh. Which would have made this from Lang Vei which was the big SF base west of Khe Sanh. Lang Vei is famous as it was over-run one night by NVA w/ tanks. The only time they ever used tanks on a US base.
However, its small size and style precludes it from being a battle flag. Most likely it was in a headquarters or military classroom.
ZFC Collectible Flag
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