Robert Certain took part in the massive aerial battle that effectively ended the Vietnam War. But it left a mark — the death of half his bomber crew, enemy capture, imprisonment and making his way as a Warrior in the peaceful calling of public ministry.
Captured and held in a prisoner of war camp for five years, Dr. Kushner’s tale of torture, abuse, survival, humanity, and perseverance was both sobering and moving. As our closing keynote speaker for VMI’s Vietnam symposium ‘The Vietnam War at 50,’ our audience leaves on a powerful note among the several personal stories they heard today.
The iconic black and white POW/MIA flag is not just a symbol; it’s a promise. A promise that as a nation, we will never forget. A promise that we remain unwavering in our efforts to bring every missing service member home. It is a daily reminder that in the heart of our commitment lies the essence of hope, respect, and an enduring love for our American heroes. May our hearts go out to the loved
USAF Lt. Col.(Ret.) Tim Ayres was born in 1945 in Los Angeles, California. He received his commission through the U.S. Air Force Academy on Jun 5, 1968, and completed pilot training in June 1969. Lt Ayres was then trained as an O-2A Milirole Forward Air Controller and was assigned to Quang Ngai, South Vietnam the same year. After a one-year tour as a Forward Air Controller, he trained in the F-4 Phantom II and was
