A touching moment as veterans and former refugees unite to remember the fall of Saigon.
Flandreau, South Dakota, recently held a poignant event to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, an event that marked the closure of the Vietnam War. Veterans and former South Vietnamese refugees gathered to reflect on the courageous efforts to evacuate thousands during this historical moment. Paul Millman, a Navy veteran, shared his experiences aboard the USS Midway during Operation Frequent Wind, emphasizing the humanitarian spirit behind their mission. This anniversary served as a vital reminder of the sacrifices made and the resilience of those affected during this tumultuous period.
April 30, 2025, marked the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, a significant event that marked the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. This milestone was observed by veterans and former South Vietnamese refugees who gathered to reflect on the pivotal moment in history. One notable participant was Paul Millman, a Navy veteran from Flandreau, South Dakota, who played a key role during the last days of the Vietnam War aboard the USS Midway.
The fall of Saigon to North Vietnamese forces resulted in the dramatic evacuation of South Vietnamese citizens, who faced persecution under the new regime. Millman served for four years on active duty, in addition to 19 years in the reserves. His service aboard the USS Midway was instrumental during Operation Frequent Wind, which aimed to evacuate South Vietnamese refugees as the city fell.
The USS Midway, a crucial player in Operation Frequent Wind, successfully evacuated over 3,000 South Vietnamese refugees. Millman, who was part of the ship’s company, worked alongside his brother, who was enlisted in an F-4 Squadron. The conditions aboard the ship were stressful; refugees utilized any available horizontal space for rest amid the chaos of their evacuation. Many refugees expressed their gratitude to the sailors, recognizing the risks they were under while fleeing hostile conditions.
Among the numerous stories of courage and desperation during the operation was the landing of a South Vietnamese Major who brought his family aboard the USS Midway in an observation plane. This historic event was notable as it was the first time such a plane landed on an aircraft carrier. In response to this emergency, Captain Lawrence Chambers, the commanding officer, ordered sailors to clear space for the aircraft, illustrating the quick thinking and humanitarian priorities of the crew during this critical time.
The anniversary event drew together veterans and former South Vietnamese refugees, fostering emotional reunions as individuals recounted their experiences from the war and the subsequent evacuation. Millman articulated the importance of recognizing the humanitarian nature of their military efforts, framing their role as a mission to save lives rather than merely participating in a political conflict. He highlighted that such reflections are vital for understanding the sacrifices made by the U.S. forces and the resilience of the South Vietnamese people.
Millman also emphasized the importance of veterans receiving ongoing gratitude from the public for their service. His attendance at the anniversary ceremony was described as one of the most impactful experiences of his life, highlighting the enduring legacy of the Vietnam War and the relationships forged through shared hardship and courage. He urged the community to continue to recognize and support veterans, acknowledging their sacrifices and the complex history that still resonates today.
The 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring spirit of those who sought refuge and safety during tumultuous times. Veterans like Paul Millman, through their service and humanitarian efforts, helped shape the narratives of survival and hope in the wake of conflict, reminding all of the significant impact such tragedies have on individuals and families while underscoring the necessity of compassion and support for those affected.
Bravery Aboard the USS Midway: A Family Rescued Amidst the Fall of Saigon
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