WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH) introduced legislation – H. Res. 986 – yesterday recognizing the 35th anniversary of “Operation Homecoming” and honoring those Americans held Prisoner of War (POW) in Vietnam. The entire House Republican leadership team has co-sponsored the measure.
On February 12, 1973, the first wave of the longest-held POWs from Vietnam left Hanoi for their first taste of freedom, dubbed “Operation Homecoming.” Rep. Sam Johnson (R-TX) flew out of Hanoi after nearly seven years in captivity, more than half of that time in solitary confinement.
“Watching these heroes return from Vietnam was a bittersweet moment for our nation, but it was one that we should never forget because of what they did to defend the cause of freedom. This resolution gives Congress the opportunity to not only remember the Members of the Armed Services held as POWs, but to mark a moment in time to remember those whose fates are still unresolved. America owes our Vietnam POWs a debt of gratitude, and it is only fitting that Congress should recognize their heroic sacrifices,” said Boehner.
Boehner and Johnson met in 1991, during their first terms in Congress, and have been friends ever since. Shot down while flying his 25th mission on April 16, 1966, then-Major Johnson (USAF) ejected from his F-4, breaking his back, dislocating his shoulder, and fracturing his right arm in several places. He was captured almost immediately and was held for 2,494 days. He returned to Texas on February 17, 1973.
“Sam Johnson is a true American hero. We can’t thank him enough for his service, and I can’t thank him enough for his friendship,” concluded Boehner.
A 29-year Air Force veteran, Johnson retired as a Colonel. He now represents portions of Dallas and Collin Counties in North Texas.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Boehner Introduces Legislation to Commemorate 35 Years of Freedom for Vietnam POWs
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