They may not have realized it then, but they ultimately helped us to win the Cold War, by showing the Soviets that we would not let expand their influence without paying a heavy price.
If we had not fought in Vietnam, I doubt the Soviets would have ultimately come to that conclusion.
IMO, you are absolutely correct.
Airborne!!!!!
And all those who stand up and fight for the freedoms we take too much for granted, my salute!!!