BERLIN, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – For the first time in three years, Wisconsin veterans have packed their bags, heading to Vietnam.
Each one with a unique story.
Many of them began through a military draft, forcing young men into the line of duty.
Ron Vandenberg was in Vietnam for 6 months in 1968.
“I want to go back on my own terms, and I want to see the rest of the country that I didn’t see.”
He says soldiers clapped when they finally left the nation, but he doesn’t know what his reaction will be this time.
“I don’t think I need any closure at this point. Although I don’t know. That’s the unknown.”
Keith Hess has been planning this for two years now.
“I went back three years ago, so it’s not really going to hit me the way it does other veterans.”
17 veterans and 2 spouses are part of the two week long trip.
Hess still vividly remembers his 15 months of service more than 50 years ago.
“I want to go home. I came home to my nine month old son,” said Hess. “It’s not like today, when you can video chat. You went as a kid and came back as a man.”
And the next 14 days will be emotional for the men on the trip.
After being drafted in 1968 and completing two tours, Richard Strebelinski remembers a conversation he had with his wife upon returning home.
“I told her that would be one beautiful place if they ever got it fixed up and I guess they got it pretty decent.”
He’s remembering his friend who died in the war. The trip signifies an emotional tribute.
“There was a captain that was close. But he went down in a helicopter,” said Strebelinski, holding back tears. “Crashed and died. Captain Crawl was his name.”
With suitcases, they boarded on the bus, heading to O’Hare.
And with family members wishing loved ones safe travels, it’s time for a trip of remembrance, acceptance, and healing to begin.
The veterans are scheduled to return May 3rd.
