Honoring Dustoff Crewmembers of the Vietnam War

During the Vietnam War, millions of Americans left home to fight in muddy trenches and jungles halfway around the world. Many made the ultimate sacrifice. Others returned home just to be ostracized and ridiculed. Some were never recognized for their service at all. 

That’s exactly what happened to the Dustoff crewmembers. These courageous crewmembers, helicopter air ambulance pilots, crew chiefs, and medics risked their lives to evacuate more than 900,000 U.S., Vietnamese, and Allied forces between May 1962 and March 1973. They were some of the very best, and their heroism deserves to be recognized. 

That’s why I introduced bipartisan legislation with Congressman Derek Kilmer this morning to honor these brave servicemembers with a Congressional Gold Medal, which is the highest expression of national appreciation Congress can offer. This recognition is long overdue, so I will do everything I can to get this bill across the finish line.

CLICK HERE to read the bill.