APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The final Old Glory Honor Flight of the year recognized, in part, a group of Hmong veterans who assisted American troops during the Vietnam War.
On board Wednesday’s early morning flight from the Appleton International Airport were 20 Hmong Vietnam servicemembers and 78 veterans who served in Vietnam, the Korean War and World War II.
These veterans, along with their guardians, were flown to Washington, D.C. to visit a variety of war memorials. They arrived back in Appleton Wednesday night to an airport full of cheering, applause, signs, balloons and American flags waving proudly.
During the Vietnam War, Hmongs were enlisted by the CIA to aid American ground troops in the war effort. However, because many were not American citizens at their time of service, they are ineligible for government veteran benefits.
“We are thrilled to recognize another very deserving group of veterans,” said Diane MacDonald, executive director of Old Glory Honor Flight, in a news release. “Hosting them on a flight is one way to recognize their service to our country. If you talk to any Vietnam veteran, they’ll tell you the Hmong bailed them out more than once.”
Veterans are flown free of charge on Old Glory Honor Flight missions, which are supported by donations. Since 2009, the Appleton International Airport and Old Glory Honor Flight have worked together to send more than 5,700 veterans to Washington, D.C.
Chong Neng Vang of Milwaukee served in Laos in 1963. He said, through a translator, that he enjoyed the trip and was very happy to see everyone waiting at the airport to greet the veterans when they returned.
78 veterans who served in the Vietnam War, Korean War and World War II were joined by 20 Hmong Vietnam servicemembers on board the final Old Glory Honor Flight of the year at the Appleton International Airport on Oct. 18, 2023. (WLUK/Mike Moon)
Another Vietnam veteran, Curt Wendorff of Shawano, also spoke highly of the experience.
“It was an awesome day today,” Wendorff said. “I tell people if you had to go do it on your own, you would have to be there three days to see what we were able to see. We had four motor coaches that took us all over the place.”
Wendorff added that he was shocked by the mass of people who showed up to welcome the veterans home. “I knew there would be a crowd, but I didn’t think it was going to be this big.”
Aboard each flight are trained volunteers who act as guardian escorts, volunteer medical staff and professional photographers who ensure the veterans receive “red-carpet” treatment.
Additionally, each veteran traveling on the flight is presented with a surprise “mail call” made up of letters and cards from family, friends and loved ones expressing thanks and appreciation for their service.
Missions operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit the Old Glory Honor Flight website to support the cause or to submit a veteran or guardian application.
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