A Moment to Remember 81 Brave Soldiers
In an upcoming ceremony, the Lost Soldiers Foundation will pay tribute to 81 courageous South Vietnamese soldiers who tragically perished during the Vietnam War. This event marks a momentous occasion where their sacrifices will finally be recognized in a dignified manner after enduring years as 'men without a country'.
Background of the Lost Soldiers Foundation
The Lost Soldiers Foundation, led by former United States Senator Jim Webb, has dedicated itself to righting historical wrongs by bringing these soldiers' remains to America. Webb, who served as a Marine in Vietnam, understands the significance of honoring those who fought valiantly without recognition. He emphasizes the unique challenges faced by these soldiers, who lacked governmental sponsorship and support from any side.
The Journey of the Remains
The remains of the 81 soldiers were not recovered immediately. They met a tragic fate while flying in an American C-123 aircraft that crashed in the mountains in December 1965. These remains were not retrieved until 1974, just before a pivotal moment in North Vietnam's history. After being intermixed, the bones were initially sent to Thailand and later transported to Hawaii, where they remained unacknowledged for over three decades.
Negotiating for Memorials
Hanoi refused to accept their remains due to their fight against the communist forces, and unfortunately, American policies further hindered their burial unless there were family connections in the U.S. However, the Lost Soldiers Foundation persistently advocated for their right to honor these soldiers, emphasizing their shared sacrifice on the battlefield. After extensive negotiations with both the State Department and the Department of Defense, the Foundation successfully brought their remains to America.
Details of the Ceremony
The ceremony, lasting one hour, will occur at Freedom Park in Westminster, California, where guests can partake in music and reflection before the formal proceedings begin. Following the ceremony, the gathering will proceed to Westminster Cemetery, the largest burial ground for Vietnamese-Americans in the country, where the 81 soldiers will be honored at their gravesite.
Speakers and Honorees
Key figures at the ceremony will include Jim Webb, Mr. Nguyen Van Hung, and keynote speaker Lieutenant General George W. Smith, Jr. These individuals will share insights into the sacrifices made by these soldiers, connecting personal histories to the broader narrative of the Vietnam War.
A Call for Community Participation
The Lost Soldiers Foundation invites the public and media representatives to join this poignant event. It stands as a powerful reminder of the legacy of bravery and sacrifice exhibited by those who served. The participation of active-duty Marines to perform a color guard and firing squad further underscores the honor and respect owed to these forgotten soldiers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the ceremony?
The ceremony aims to honor the 81 South Vietnamese soldiers who lost their lives during the Vietnam War and acknowledge their sacrifices.
Who is leading the Lost Soldiers Foundation?
The Foundation is led by former U.S. Senator Jim Webb, who is dedicated to commemorating these soldiers' legacies.
Where will the ceremony take place?
The event will be held at Freedom Park in Westminster, California, and will include a graveside ceremony afterward.
How long will the ceremony last?
The main ceremony will be one hour long, followed by additional activities at the gravesite.
Can the public attend the ceremony?
Yes, the Lost Soldiers Foundation extends an open invitation to all members of the public and the press to join the commemoration.
