The 1960s were a time of intense global tension, where military forces found themselves at the heart of pivotal moments that would define history. From the jungles of Vietnam to the standoff of the Cold War, the military was not only a symbol of power but also of the uncertainty that gripped the world. These images offer a raw and intimate look into the lives of those who served, the landscapes they traversed, and the challenges they faced, each frame speaking volumes about the era’s impact on both soldiers and civilians alike. They show not just the brutal realities of war but also the quiet moments of humanity amid chaos. As we reflect on this era, these photos serve as both a reminder of the sacrifices made and a glimpse into our nation’s history. Here are 20 military photos from the 1960s.
1. Elvis Presley in the Army, 1960.
Well, I guess they never made the king get a haircut.
2. Posing for an Army recruiting poster, 1960s.
Bayonets are one of the most ruthless weapons of war.
3. Before Vietnam, 1960s.
This man looks extremely young to be serving.
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4. That’s a big smile for jumping out of a plane.
People who skydive are brave, but skydiving into battle, that’s ludicrous.
5. Journaling in the Army, 1960s.
I would love to read a soldier’s journal.
6. Kris Kristofferson was an Army ranger in the 1960s.
From an Army Ranger to a famous movie star, what a life.
7. Imagine enlisting with your best friend.
Fighting a war with your best bud sounds intense.
8. Bob Ross as a master sergeant for the US Air Force, 1960s.
He left the military because it wasn’t in his nature to be mean to others.
9. Imagine being in control of that giant machine.
I don’t know if I’d ever find the confidence to get that thing up in the air.
10. R. Lee Ermey during active duty, 1960s.
This was before the Full Metal Jacket fame.
11. We love the C-ration ham slices.
Surprisingly, military food isn’t as bad as you’d think.
12. This is a photo of a man on his first tour, vs a photo of him on his second.
You can tell he’s seen some things.
13. A member of the first Navy SEAL team, in 1962.
I wonder how SEAL training was then versus now.
14. Air Force pilot, 1960s.
If you had to choose one branch to serve in, which would you choose?
15. Nothing fixes a situation like a can of Coke.
Being stranded in the forest isn’t so bad when you have a can of soda.
16. Tom Selleck, 1960s.
He served in the California National Guard.
17. Australian soldiers helping in Vietnam.
These guys all look extremely young.
18. This is too cool for one photo.
I’d blindly follow this guy into battle.
19. That’s a devious smile.
You can tell she just tore up a target down range.
20. When you have to get up at 3 AM.
When your life depends on it, you don’t ignore the alarm.
