The Honor Flight: A Tribute to Vietnam War Veterans

Many people are aware of the experiences of service men and women who returned home from the Vietnam War. They often faced neglect and poor treatment, lacking ceremonies or celebrations.

The Honor Flight Network, established in 2005, recognizes the sacrifice of these veterans. Honor Flight Chicago initially honored World War II veterans, later expanding to Korean War veterans, and now focuses on Vietnam War veterans in the Chicago area.

The mission of the Honor Flights is to transport veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit memorials that commemorate their service. These trips, including amenities, are free for the veterans. The program’s impact became personal for me when my friends Stan McGraw and Jack Rauscher participated in the Honor Flight in May.

Stan McGraw, an Army veteran, and Jack Rauscher, a Navy veteran, both served during the Vietnam War in the 1960s. Recently, I spoke with them about their service and their Honor Flight experience.

McGraw enlisted in 1963, undergoing extensive training before joining the 34th Quartermaster Battalion at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina. He arrived in Vietnam at Quy Nhon Harbor in 1965, and his unit moved to An Khe in the Central Highlands. He recalled the threat of advancing enemy forces shortly before his tour ended. Despite the danger, faith sustained him, and he returned home in 1966 as a Specialist E-5.

Rauscher joined the Naval Reserves in 1966 and began his service as part of the Mobile Riverine Force in Vietnam following the Tet Offensive. Serving as an engineman on armored troop carriers, he navigated the Mekong River Delta, facing firefights and tense moments. Known as the “Brown Water Navy,” they navigated dangerous waters until his return in late 1969 as Petty Officer 3rd Class.

Many Vietnam veterans suffer from Agent Orange exposure effects. McGraw and Rauscher have health issues related to this, but neither expressed it until asked.

The Honor Flight day included early start at Midway Airport, food, support, and unobstructed travel in Washington. Veterans visited memorials and museums. A highlight is the “mail call,” where veterans received cards and letters from loved ones, with McGraw noting 50 cards received.

The biggest highlight came at a reception at Midway Airport upon their return. Despite late hours, around 1,000 people awaited them, providing the welcome they missed decades ago. Rauscher recalled disbelief at the crowd and family support. McGraw called the experience, years in the making, “the greatest day” for many attendees.

Tom Strong is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.