Honor Flight Network: Paying Tribute to Vietnam War Veterans

The return of service members from the Vietnam War often did not include celebrated homecomings. Many veterans were neglected or faced negative treatment. In 2005, the Honor Flight Network began its mission to honor these individuals, now focusing largely on Vietnam War veterans in the Chicagoland area.

Initially, Honor Flight Chicago paid tribute to World War II veterans and later included Korean War veterans. The network organizes flights to Washington, D.C., so veterans can visit memorials dedicated to their service. These trips, covering all costs, offer a unique chance for veterans to be acknowledged properly.

Two friends of mine, Stan McGraw and Jack Rauscher, both Vietnam War veterans, recently experienced an Honor Flight. McGraw, an Army veteran who served in the mid-1960s, and Rauscher, a Navy veteran from the same era, shared their experiences.

Service Stories

McGraw joined the Army in 1963. After extensive training, he was deployed to Vietnam in 1965 with the 34th Quartermaster Battalion. His unit experienced the dangers of war but avoided a severe battle shortly before his tour ended in 1966. McGraw credits his faith for his safe return.

Rauscher entered the Naval Reserves in 1966, then joined the Mobile Riverine Force in Vietnam post-1968 Tet Offensive. He served on an armored troop carrier, known as a “tango boat”, navigating the risky Mekong River Delta. His role as part of the “Brown Water Navy” involved tense encounters and perilous missions.

Post-War Challenges

Both veterans have faced health issues linked to Agent Orange exposure during their service. Despite this, neither McGraw nor Rauscher focused on these problems during our discussions.

Their excitement about their Honor Flight experience was palpable. Their journey began early at Midway Airport and covered various memorials and museums in Washington. The trip offered meals, escorts, and medical assistance, with all efforts made to ensure a memorable day.

The highlight was the warm return reception at Midway Airport – a stark contrast to their original homecoming.

At nearly 11 p.m., about 1,000 people, including family, bands, and military personnel, welcomed them. The scene, rich with emotion and recognition, left a lasting impression on the veterans.

McGraw described two years of anticipation before receiving confirmation of his flight, stating that the experience was overwhelmingly positive for himself and his peers. Rauscher echoed this sentiment, noting the remarkable contrast to their initial return from Vietnam.

This Honor Flight trip stands as a significant event, enabling these veterans to receive the honor they deserved decades ago.