In observation of Vietnam Veterans Day in 2021, 11 of our Vietnam War veterans participated in a Q&A with high school students from our Operation CLIMB, a branch of Honor Flight Chicago’s Operation Education. We believe one of the best ways to honor our heroes is to share their stories and experiences, inspiring future generations to learn about the service and sacrifice of our veterans. Thank you to all of our Vietnam heroes, and WELCOME HOME!

Scroll down for more in-depth looks at some of our Vietnam Veteran alumni and information surrounding their experiences serving their country.

FEATURED VETERANS:

Air Force E5 Kay Ann Akins served in supply during the Vietnam War in both the U.S. and Taiwan. She went on to further serve in the Illinois Air National Guard, retiring as an E8. The camaraderie is something she misses to this day. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Master Chief Petty Officer Mary Arvidson served in the Army from 1973 and then the Navy until her retirement in 2012. She performed intelligence work and was stationed in both Germany and England. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Marine Sergeant Terry Blue served as an infantryman, rifleman, and with military intelligence during the Vietnam War. Army E3 Robert Gurley served in the infantry during the Vietnam War. They are childhood friends who remain close to this day. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Army SP-4 Arthur Chavez served in Vietnam as the crew chief for a Huey in the 57th Assault Helicopter unit. After losing his brother in Vietnam he was inspired to volunteer. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Navy Lieutenant Junior Grade Bonnie Cordaro served in the Vietnam War as a charge nurse at the United States Naval Hospital in San Diego, California. She reflects how things have changed when it comes to rules and regulations for women. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Marine Corps Sergeant E5 Lou Covelli served with a tank battalion during the Vietnam War. Lou was one of the first Marines in Vietnam and speaks about the honor of serving others. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Navy E6 Donna Glielmi served as a data systems technician during the Vietnam War. Her last assignment was in the Philippines supporting the effort to rescue Vietnamese refugees. She is also a member of Operation Education for Honor Flight Chicago. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Marine E6 Charles Nichols served as an infantryman and a rifleman during the Vietnam War. Charles talks a lot about the feelings of why he went to Vietnam and how it has impacted his life. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

U.S. Marine Corp Corporal Joe Perez served as a frontline rifleman during the Vietnam War. He is a 3 time Purple Heart recipient and
discusses coming home. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Army staff sergeant E-6 Luis “Obed” Rodriguez served with the 101st Airborne Nomads during the Tet Offensive in the Vietnam War. He is a Puerto Rican immigrant and Purple Heart Recipient. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Air Force veteran Patricia Tiner served in aircraft control during the Vietnam War in aircraft control and as a warning intercept tech in both the U.S. and the Philippines. Her passion for planes has led her to encourage women and girls to follow their interests. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Army Captain Clyde Wilson served during the Vietnam War and in the reserves afterwards. He was awarded the Silver Star for his leadership and bravery after taking leadership of his old platoon while attempting to deliver paychecks. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Click on the image below to download a PDF with QR codes featuring content from all of the above veterans.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Our Operation Education volunteers have compiled resources to commemorate many different months and anniversaries on the academic and American calendars. Click the link below to explore more!