Honoring Vietnam Veterans through Honor Flights

Many remember the difficult stories of the return of Vietnam War veterans. Lacking celebrations and faced with poor treatment, these veterans returned home without the honor they deserved. The Honor Flight Network, established in 2005, works to change that by recognizing these servicemen and women. Honor Flight Chicago initially focused on World War II veterans, later including those from the Korean War, and now primarily Vietnam War veterans from Chicagoland.

News coverage often highlights the mission of Honor Flights: transporting veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit memorials dedicated to their service. These trips, including all amenities, are free for veterans. My appreciation for the program grew when two friends participated in May.

Stories from Home and War

Stan McGraw, a longtime Army friend, and Jack Rauscher, a childhood Navy friend, shared their Vietnam experiences. Both served during the turbulent 1960s. In recent visits to their homes, I listened to their stories and their reflections on the Honor Flight.

McGraw enlisted in 1963. After training at Ft. Bragg, he sailed to Vietnam’s Quy Nhon Harbor in 1965. Stationed in An Khe, the constant artillery impacts were intense. “The enemy threatened once near my tour’s end,” McGraw said, but a battle was averted. He returned in 1966 as a Specialist E-5.

Rauscher joined the Naval Reserves in 1966. Following training, he joined the Mobile Riverine Force in 1968 post-Tet Offensive. Serving as a “River Rat,” he navigated the Mekong Delta on “tango boats,” ready for combat. As a Petty Officer 3rd Class, he finished his tour and returned in December 1969.

Overcoming Health Challenges

Agent Orange exposure has led to health issues for many veterans. Rauscher and McGraw still face related disabilities. Yet, they rarely brought it up, unless asked.

A Moving Honor Flight Experience

The Honor Flight began at 4 a.m. and ended by 11 p.m. Veterans received meals, escorts, and wheelchairs. With Washington, D.C., traffic paused for their journey, they visited several memorials and the Air and Space Museum. A “mail call” on the return flight gave veterans cards from loved ones, a cherished moment. McGraw received 50 cards.

Returning to Midway, a crowd of 1,000, including musicians and service members, awaited. “It felt entirely different from Vietnam’s return,” said Rauscher. Family members, including grandchildren, were present. “The day was unforgettable,” McGraw concluded. “It was one of the best days for so many.”

Tom Strong reports for The Beacon-News.