reply to post by Hal9000
Definitely sounds like they are trying to paint America as the aggressors. My understanding is the DRV sent attack boats at a U.S. Vessel and after
being fired upon, broke off the attack. I'm guessing the USS Maddox was still in international waters but really pushing the envelope.
The issue gets clouded as to whether a second attack occurred. Regardless, the incident prompted congress to pass the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution
(which is about as close to declaring war on commies as you could get).