In early 1966, while flying a combat mission over North Vietnam, Captain Render Crayton’s A4E Skyhawk was struck by anti-aircraft fire. The plane suffered crippling damage, with a resulting fire and explosion. Unable to maintain flight, Captain Crayton ejected over enemy territory. What happened next, though, demonstrates his character and heroism. While enemy troops quickly closed on his position, a search and rescue helicopter with armed escort arrived to attempt a pick up. Despite repeated efforts to clear the area of hostile fire, they were unsuccessful and fuel ran low. Aware of this, and despite the grave personal danger, Captain Crayton selflessly directed them to depart, leading to his inevitable capture by the enemy.
Vietnam War POWs Reunite, Reminisce in North Texas (John Broadak)
It’s a reunion four decades in the making. A group of 125 prisoners of war are in North Texas this week for a special opportunity to reconnect reminisce and celebrate their freedom. Five busloads of American veterans and their families arrived back in Frisco on Thursday afternoon.
