Operation Just Cause... ...for as long as it takes
On Monday, May 15, 2000 a memorial service of full military honors is
scheduled to be held at Arlington National Cemetery for the 10 U.S. Air
Force
crew members of "Spooky 10"~ lost over Laos and declared Missing In
Action on
this date 34 years ago, May 15th, 1966.
Due to extensive evidence that the identification of the eight Americans
and
two South Vietnamese crew members aboard this flight is highly
inconclusive,
the interment will be a difficult time for many family members whose
loved
ones were lost in this incident. However, all friends, veterans, and
POW/MIA
activists are invited to attend as a symbol of honor and respect rather
than
as an acceptance of the closure that remains continually elusive
regarding
the true fates of these men.
The service is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time;
however, all in attendance are asked to be inside the Administration
Building
(directly behind the Arlington Visitor's Center) no later than 12:30.
A vehicle procession will follow to the gravesite where full military
honors
will be given during a graveside memorial service which will be
officiated by
Chaplain Brogan and Father McGill of Arlington. A fly over of C-130
gunships
in Missing Man formation will symbolize the absence of these men whose
sacrifice has been most noble.
Upon departure from Arlington, all who wish to attend are invited to
gather
at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall where a joint American Vietnamese
color
guard will post both the American and South Vietnamese flags in honor of
the
eight American and 2 Vietnamese crew members who were aboard this
flight.
Although the identities of the two South Vietnamese crew members remain
uncertain, their presence aboard Spooky 10 will be proudly acknowledged
and
their loyalty and military service will be given equal honor for the
price
that they have paid in the name of Freedom.
Two wreaths will be placed at Panel 11E in the name of continued hope
for all
of these noble men.
Amanda Kidd, relative of CMSgt. James A. Preston, and Thuoc Nguyen,
member of
the Former Vietnamese Political Prisoners will jointly place a wreath of
yellow roses as an outward symbol of American and South Vietnamese unity
and
hope for truthful answers of the fate of the men aboard Spooky 10.
Members of the Former Vietnamese Political Prisoners will place a wreath
as
well, which will represent their honor and gratitude for the sacrifices
that
all of these men have paid in their effort to bring freedom to Vietnam.
All friends, family, and concerned citizens are invited to attend both
services as an expression of honor and continued hope. Upon departure,
please do so with the understanding that the search for the truth
regarding
these men will continue.
Your presence will be welcome and deeply appreciated, as will your
support in
the ongoing search for Truth.
Media coverage was welcome at the Wreath Laying ceremony at the Wall,
however
discretion and respect were greatly requested of all photographers who
may be
present during the graveside service at Arlington. Please acknowledge
the
need for privacy of all family members during this very moving, yet
extremely
difficult time.
For further information please contact:
J. David MurrayCol. George William Jensen
Chairman, New Jersey VVA State Council
POW/MIA Committee
Phone: (732) 264-3981
E-mail: xdave43@injersey.com
