[AFRICAN AMERICANA - VIETNAM]. A group of approx. 140 photographs assembled by Private First Class Ronald Nelson, 125th Signal Battalion, incl. images of African American soldiers and the Cu Chi tunnels.

Approx. 140 silver gelatin photographs, ranging in size from 2 1/2 x 3 1/2 in. to 8 x 10 in., majority unidentified with the exception of a small sampling that include typed captions or notations on verso and credits to members of the 125th Signal Battalion. At least 3 images are identified to PFC Ronald Nelson, including a snapshot of Nelson "trying to stay cool" and photographs that he took in the field.

Included are a number of photographs documenting soldiers going through the Cu Chi tunnels, an immense network of connecting tunnels located in the Cu Chi District of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, which were first interdicted in 1966. PFC Nelson and the 125th Signal Battalion appear to have been in Cu Chi to document the tunnels and associated warfare, as casualties are shown in some of the photographs as well.

Formal group portraits as well as informal snapshots of the soldiers, their friends, and locals are included as well as landmarks and social events, such as USO Shows featuring Bob Hope. At least 24 photographs show African American soldiers or civilians, both in the field and enjoying some down time. Two photographs of the Dixie Cups performing at one of the USO Shows are also included.

Together, approx. 140 photographs. Condition generally good. Many with chips, creases, and wear to edges and corners.