NPR has broadcast the first of three articles about the Kirk’s Vietnam evacuation story. The second and third stories will be broadcast tomorrow. In the mean time, you can listen to it, read all about it, and more, at NPR’s website (story 1).
First Third Of The Story…
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
As a Vietnam era vet, I was stunned and moved by the NPR stories on the Kirk’s mission in 1975. At the end of an unwinnable war, the humanitarian acts performed by the Kirk’s crew were, indeed, above and beyond the call of duty. I am proud to have served at the same moment in time as these heroic men. And yes, were I you, I WOULD brag that I diapered babies in the service of my country!
I was greatly impressed listening to this incredibly moving story detailing the evacuation efforts of the Kirk’s crew. It is among the most compelling and inspirational stories I’ve ever heard, and it has increased my admiration for the Vietnam-era war heroes ten-fold. If this material is not currently contained in school curriculum it certainly ought to be! Hearing about these amazing people and events was a tonic for the soul – I’m looking very much forward to the next installment.
Dear Ian and Karen:
As founder of the Kirk Association I am forever amazed that our story has reached such an audience. I say so because, to a man, we just felt we were doing our best to help others. I guess it is the human spirit which of giving not enough of us get to experience. When you are confronted with such devistation, the simple conflicts become insignificant.
We were kids caught up in fact that we were considered baby killers by the mere fact that we were in the military, and not necessarily by choice. Our claim to fame was that we had the opportunity to prove our humanity despite how we were protrayed. But in the end, we (the crew) benefitted in the long run and are still motivated by that human spirit.
Sincerely,
Jim “Bon” Bongaard
Dear USS Kirk leaders and service men and women,
I never understood the American’s perception of the US soldiers who served in Vietnam for the southern Vietnamese are grateful for your help. Yes, it was traumatic for us to have to flee from our motherland and seek refuge at a new strange land. But despite what the goverment leaders’ strategies are, I am and my family will forever be grateful to all the service men and women who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. For all the VN Vets who perished and return back to US, THANK YOU. Your service are forever etched in our minds. Our successes in America is a testament to YOUR personal contribution. We are forever grateful and in debted to your sacrifices.
Trang Mary Le
living in Santa Clara, CA but formerly resettled in Omaha, NE