1. Read the directions, introduction, and assignment.

Question

Directions: The following question is based on the accompanying five sources

This question requires you to synthesize a variety of sources mio a coherent, well-written essay. When you synthesize sources you refer to them to develop your position and cine them accurately. Your argument should be central, the sources should support this argument. Avoid merely summarizing sources.

Remember to attribute both direct and indirect citations.

Introduction:

The Vietnam Conflict was arguably the most contentious in American History. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, located on the National Mall in Washington DC was also a contentious choice. A wild departure from the tall monuments of other wars, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is an intersection of two reflective walls set below the ground. The walls list the names of the Americans who died in the conflict. Some have referred to the monument as a black, tomb-like hole that dishonors the survivors of the Vietnam War. Others feel that the reflective quality of the monument coupled with the park-like setting around it pays evocative tribute to a complex moment in American history

Assignment:

Read the following sources (including any introductory information) carefully Then write an essay in which you evaluate whether or not the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC is an appropriate tribute to the Vietnam veterans

Refer to the sources by their titles (Source A, Source B, etc.) or by the descriptions in the parentheses

Source A (Ayers)

Source B (Lin)

Source C (Carhart)

Source D (Remembering)

Source E (Corbitt)

Sources:

A. YALE SENIOR A VIETNAM MEMORIAL AND A FEW IRONIES, by B. Drummond Avres Jr.

B. THE VIETNAM MEMORIAL, by Mava Ling Yin

C. INSULTING VIETNAM VEIS, by Tom Carhart

D. HOW TO REMEMBER VIETNAM

F HONORING VETERANS OF WAR AND ANTI-WAR, by Phyllis S. Corbett

Now write a synthesis essay by following above directions, steps and questions in mind

Answer 1

In evaluating whether the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC is an appropriate tribute to the Vietnam veterans, it is important to consider the various perspectives presented in the sources provided.

Source A, written by B. Drummond Ayres Jr., presents a critical view of the memorial, suggesting that it is a tomb-like hole that dishonors the survivors of the Vietnam War. This perspective highlights the controversial nature of the memorial and how it may be perceived negatively by some.

In contrast, Source B, by Mava Ling Yin, offers a more positive view of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, emphasizing its reflective quality and park-like setting as paying tribute to a complex moment in American history. This perspective acknowledges the emotional and reflective impact the memorial can have on visitors.

Source C, written by Tom Carhart, takes a more critical stance, arguing that the memorial is insulting to Vietnam veterans. Carhart suggests that the memorial fails to properly honor the sacrifices made by those who served in the conflict.

On the other hand, Source D, HOW TO REMEMBER VIETNAM, provides a guide on how to remember the Vietnam War, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the complexity of the conflict and paying tribute to both veterans of war and anti-war activists. This perspective highlights the need for a nuanced approach to remembering and honoring those who served in Vietnam.

Finally, Source E, by Phyllis S. Corbett, argues for honoring veterans of war and anti-war movements alike. This perspective emphasizes the need to recognize the diverse experiences and perspectives of those involved in the conflict.

In synthesizing these sources, it becomes clear that the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC is a complex and contentious tribute to the Vietnam veterans. While some view it as a fitting and reflective tribute to the sacrifices made in the conflict, others see it as a dishonoring and insulting monument. Ultimately, the appropriateness of the memorial as a tribute to Vietnam veterans is subjective and depends on individual interpretations and experiences.