The 44th annual Freedom Flyer Reunion and 20th annual POW/MIA Symposium honoring all Vietnam prisoners of war and those who were declared missing in action during that conflict was held March 30-31 at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas.
Military officials gathered at the base’s Missing Man Formation Monument for a wreath-laying ceremony and a missing-man-formation flyover performed by T-34 Mentor aircraft, a Defense Department release said. The 560th Flying Training Squadron, which hosted the event, has hosted a Pilot Requalification Program for POWs returning to flight status since 1973.
This year’s event featured Air Force Col. Joel Carey, the 12th Flying Training Wing commander, and retired Army Brig. Gen. John Rose, a Vietnam War veteran, as guest speakers. Vietnam veterans endured a tough transition after the war according to Rose, who recalled his painful re-entry back to civilian life.
“It was a difficult time for our nation,” Rose said, according to the release. “We all know how difficult it was back then, and we can’t change that now, but I am so delighted and proud about the way we treat our service members of all branches today upon their return.”
Carey thanked attendees for joining the celebration, citing the POW/MIAs’ great sacrifices to the nation.
“What I have learned from all of this is that you Vietnam veterans did not quit your country,” Rose said in the release, “You did not walk away.”
Alerts Sign-up