John Wayne Addresses Vietnam POWs Upon Their Return
May 24, 1973: John Wayne thanks the President for his services to his country and warmly welcomes America’s POWs home at a historic White House dinner.
May 24, 1973: John Wayne thanks the President for his services to his country and warmly welcomes America’s POWs home at a historic White House dinner.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Paris Peace Accords, which officially ended U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. One local man spent six and a half years in captivity, as a prisoner of war. Naval aviator George Coker returned to America as part of “Operation Homecoming” a half-century ago. He spoke about it today with Mike Gooding.
MEDAL OF HONOR ACTION PLACE: HOA LO PRISON, HANOI, NORTH VIETNAM MEDAL OF HONOR ACTION DATE: SEPTEMBER 4, 1969 RANK: REAR ADMIRAL (RANK AT TIME OF ACTION: CAPTAIN) CONFLICT/ERA: VIETNAM WAR – U.S. NAVY UNIT/COMMAND: ATTACK CARRIER AIR WING 16, U.S.S. ORISKANY MEDAL OF HONOR ACTION DATE: SEPTEMBER 4, 1969 For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while senior naval officer in the prisoner-of-war
On May 10, 2024, Capt. Guy D. Gruters (USAF-ret) delivered the Gathering of Eagles Gen Jumper Award Presentation at the USAF Air University. In his talk, Captain Gruters emphasized the importance of the Military Code of Conduct, sharing insights as a top-secret F-100F “Misty-29” Fast FAC (Forward Air Controller) and fighter pilot during the Vietnam War. He also highlighted the significance of the Son Tay Raid, the role of his personal faith, and the profound