Return to Hanoi: 50 Years of Freedom

Retired Air Force Col. Robert Certain, a B-52 navigator and former prisoner of war, worked with MOAA to organize a trip back to Vietnam to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Operation Homecoming and the return of more than 600 POWs from North Vietnam. Seven former POWs as well as family and friends joined Certain to see southern Vietnam and Cambodia and return to Hanoi to see what remains of the infamous Hanoi Hilton prison.

[joanesp]

I was in Vietnam in 2020, amazing people wonderful country and very tolerant.

As an Australian I served as a rifleman (conscript) in 1970. I have returned twice, once with my two sons, and a second time with my wife and two daughters. I'd recommend that experience to all veterans.

[crtupper]

Amazing video. I think how fortunate we were to get you all home. Welcome home gentlemen!

[TheGainfather]

Nothing but the utmost respect to all vietnam veterans. These men are the sons of the greatest generation and you can see the warrior spirit carried on. God bless and thank you all for your service and sacrifices!

[RJ-nhhw]

Warriors who became tempered via pain...yet time has broadened their perspectives where peace is warmly embraced underscored by a natural desire to love one another as best as possible. These are some of my brothers...I salute them all!

[lynnaehardy]

War is ugly. We love you guys. Thank you for your service. You helped us get near China and other enemies over there. We have our Defense there now because you made the way.

[angelajennings]

The inhumanity and cruelty is shocking but the acceptance and forgiveness is Totally Amazing! God Bless All Who Suffered. This is A Lesson That Should Be Remembered.

[rick]

Heroes all. Tough times back then for these great military.

[rlrl]

Some wonderful Americans! GBU, Warriors!!!

[patpolicastro]

After 50 plus years it was surprising to see and hear a former class mate of mine, Pete Camrotta. Glad he is alive and well.

[thomasfx]

I was 10 in 1976 and was very much aware of the war. My mother cried when the POWs came home in 1973, even though we didn’t know anyone who served in Vietnam except for my Dad’s cousin who had returned in 1970. I had two neighbors, one on one side, one on the other that were Navy officers, but one was actually CIA, (I asked him), and we had an FBI agent across the street. I learned a lot just sitting on their front porches. In any case I always felt very attached to the war and the pows that were left behind, especially in Laos.

[clifford]

Very interesting information Gentleman. Living 5 or 6 years through that o can't imagine. Glad you made it home and got to live your life's

[Mary-wpgd]

This is an incredible video that I wish were a full length documentary! Such bravery going the first time, such courage to go back.

[Capecodham]

I was there in 2012 to virtually all the places seen in this video.

[AaronOlafson]

Very powerful video documenting and confirming their full circle of catch and

[johnblouch]

thank you for this video. thank you to all veterans.

[patfinnegan]

A very fine bunch of gentlemen heroes. Thank you for your service. I am so glad you made it through.

[nestortorres]

God bless America, our former POWs, and the heroes whose names are on the wall.

[billbuschgen]

The book (In the Presence of Mine Enemies) is a must read if any of this interests you. It will open your eyes. God Bless all these men.

[hanhnguyen]

Thanks You all for served in my country(Republic of South Vietnam) in the last 50 years our people never forgot you men and women. Brisbane Australia