SOAR

Tuesday October 20 2015

The week was all about the Special Operation Association Reunion. During the week there are many activities such as a symposium by former A-1 Skyraider pilots, poker tournament, group outings to various events and a MIA remains recovery update, but for most men hanging out in the hospitality room is what we're here for. A lot of the guys arrive on Tuesday and immediately after registering, stop in the room. We had a steady flow of comrades coming and going throughout the day. 

Wednesday October 21 2015

First thing this morning we had the Southern Brotherhood Breakfast. An explanation is in order, The Southern brotherhood is all of the forces that worked for Command and Control South. CCS ran all the clandestine activities in Cambodia and Southern Laos during the Vietnam War.

After the breakfast Millie and Beth Crosby went shopping and left the boys to do reunion stuff and before you know it lunch was served. After some light dining Millie and I said our goodbyes for the day and went back to the motorhome. 

Thursday October 22 2015

Thursday morning Millie stayed with Maggie and I went to the Orleans. Once again our group of old aviators gathered in the hospitality room. Topics of conversation covered all subjects you'd expect in a group that meets infrequently; family, careers, illnesses, the VA health system and those that have passed away. The open bar was busy as it has been all week so thrilling tales of daring and spectacular lying....I mean.... flying filled the air. Sometimes under hushed voices story's of tragedy were told, as if the subdued speaking somehow lessened the sadness of death and lives never lived to their fullest. 

195th AHC pilot Larry Little reads the names of our KIA. Each of the gentlemen behind him read the names of their units fallen. Sadly it was a long recital.

Lt General Hal Moore and journalist Joe Galloway wrote an epic account of their true Vietnam experience called “We were soldiers once....and young”. So too, the men here this week recounting the days of long ago, they were young brave soldiers and aviators who never wavered as they fought one of the most challenging and dangerous missions of the war. A mission for which they received no recognition and in fact remained classified for 30 years.

Very rarely in life, an experience is so poignant it becomes a part of you. The bond between the participants is as strong as any created in all of your time on earth. I feel privileged to be a part of it and honored to join these chosen few as we once again become brothers. We gather not for accolades or glory, but simply to stand again among such extraordinary men.

Twelve noon we reluctantly closed the room, there were a few goodbyes but most would be back this evening with wives for the Banquet. The evening event was properly done with honor guard, the empty POW/MIA table, speeches, toasts, awards, entertainment, dinner and everyone dressed in their finery.

Last minute phone numbers and email exchanges, handshakes, hugs and promises to stay in touch ended the evening and the reunion.