The Most Famous Vietnam Veteran, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the veteran you think is the most famous!

Updated on May 6, 2024 07:16

Vietnam veterans hold a distinguished place in history, each with a unique story that contributes to our understanding of a complex era. Recognizing these individuals not only honors their service but also highlights the diverse experiences of those who served during the Vietnam War. By ranking the most well-known veterans, we offer a way to acknowledge their impact both during the war and in the years that followed. This ranking system provides an opportunity for everyone to participate in commemorating these heroes. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a student, or simply interested in learning more about the people who have shaped our world, your votes help determine which stories resonate most strongly with the public. Engaging in this process enriches our collective memory and ensures that the sacrifices and achievements of Vietnam veterans are not forgotten.

Who Is the Most Famous Vietnam Veteran?

1

54
votes
United States Congress · Public domain

John McCain

He was a U.S. Senator and the Republican nominee for President in 2008. McCain was a Navy pilot who was shot down and held as a prisoner of war for over five years during the Vietnam War.
John McCain in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous person from Phoenix
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous person in the Navy
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Prisoner of War
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous survivor
2

12
votes
Georges Biard · CC BY-SA 3.0

Oliver Stone

He is a film director, producer, and screenwriter who served in the Army during the Vietnam War. Stone's experiences in Vietnam inspired some of his most famous films, including Platoon and Born on the Fourth of July.
Oliver Stone in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous Oliver
3

26
votes

Damon D'Amato from North Hollywood, Calfornia · CC BY 2.0

Ron Kovic

He is a Vietnam War veteran and anti-war activist who wrote the book Born on the Fourth of July, which was later adapted into a movie by Oliver Stone. Kovic was paralyzed from the chest down after being shot in the spine during the war.
4

23
votes

DoD photo by Monica King, U.S. Army. (Released) · Public domain

Chuck Hagel

He served as the U.S. Secretary of Defense from 2013 to 2015 and was a U.S. Senator from Nebraska from 1997 to 2009. Hagel served in the Army during the Vietnam War and was wounded twice.
5

11
votes

United States Congress · Public domain

Bob Kerrey

He is a former U.S. Senator from Nebraska and the former Governor of Nebraska. Kerrey served in the Navy during the Vietnam War and was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during a mission in 1969.
6

7
votes
Department of State of the United States of America · Public domain

Colin Powell

He served as the U.S. Secretary of State from 2001 to 2005 and was the first African American to hold the position. Powell served in the Army during the Vietnam War and was awarded a Purple Heart.
Colin Powell in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous Colin
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous person from the Bronx
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous Secretary of State
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous army general
7

9
votes

Max Cleland

He is a former U.S. Senator from Georgia and the former Administrator of the U.S. Veterans Administration. Cleland served in the Army during the Vietnam War and lost both of his legs and his right arm in an explosion.
8

7
votes
Trikosko, Marion S. · Public domain

Bob Hope

He was an entertainer and comedian who performed for U.S. troops during multiple wars, including the Vietnam War. Hope is often associated with his annual USO Christmas shows, which he hosted for over 50 years.
Bob Hope in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous Bob
9

5
votes
Unknown photographerUnknown photographer · Public domain

Al Gore

Al Gore

He served as the Vice President of the United States from 1993 to 2001 under President Bill Clinton. Gore served in the Army during the Vietnam War and was awarded a Bronze Star.
Al Gore is an American politician and environmentalist who served as the 45th Vice President of the United States from 1993 to 2001. He is best known for his efforts to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability.

Political Career: Served as Vice President from 1993-2001

Environmentalism: Advocate for climate change awareness and sustainability

Climate Reality Project: Founder of an organization focused on educating and mobilizing action on climate change

Author: Wrote several books, including 'An Inconvenient Truth'

Nobel Peace Prize: Recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 for his environmental activism
Al Gore in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most successful Vice President
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous Harvard graduate
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous liberal
10

5
votes

James Webb

He served as the U.S. Secretary of the Navy from 1987 to 1988 and was elected to the U.S. Senate from Virginia in 2006. Webb served as a Marine during the Vietnam War and was awarded the Navy Cross, the second-highest military decoration for valor.

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Ranking factors for famous veteran

Military Service

The rank achieved, unit assignments, and commendations received during their time in Vietnam can be important factors. This may include factors such as combat experience, leadership roles, and bravery displayed.
Public Recognition

The level of public recognition and general awareness of the veteran's service and contributions can be considered. This could include factors such as media coverage, public appearances, and public support for their efforts.
Impact on the Vietnam War

The veteran's influence or impact on the course of the war can be significant. This could involve factors such as strategic decisions, policy-making, or significant contributions that affected the war's outcome or the way it was perceived.
Post-War Contributions

The veteran's contributions and accomplishments after the Vietnam War, whether in politics, activism, business, or any other field, can also be considered. This includes their efforts in advocacy for veterans' rights or their contributions to society and their community.
Overall Popularity and Cultural Impact

The veteran's overall popularity and cultural impact, including their portrayal in books, movies, or other media, can play a role in determining their fame.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous Vietnam veteran. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or vet is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2012 views
158 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each vet once every 24 hours. The rank of each vet is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous vietnam veteran

The Vietnam War was a controversial conflict that lasted from 1955 to 1975. It involved the United States and its allies fighting against the communist forces of North Vietnam and its allies. The war claimed the lives of over 58,000 American soldiers and wounded countless others, leaving a lasting impact on the country. Despite the controversy surrounding the war, many brave soldiers served their country with honor and distinction, including some who went on to achieve fame and notoriety in their post-war careers. Among these veterans, some have become household names, such as John McCain, Oliver Stone, and Ron Kovic. However, when it comes to the most famous Vietnam veteran, the title is often bestowed upon a man who never served in combat: former President of the United States, George W. Bush. While he did serve in the Texas Air National Guard during the war, he was never deployed to Vietnam. Other notable Vietnam veterans include John Kerry, Colin Powell, and Chuck Hagel, all of whom went on to achieve success in politics, with Kerry and Powell serving as U.S. Secretaries of State. Despite the varying levels of fame and success achieved by these veterans, all of them share a common bond: their service and sacrifice in one of the most controversial wars in American history.