Lost at sea: Vietnamese family reunites with the men who rescued them

[@flexman70]

"I don't see that hyphen as divisive, I see that as a bridge." I'm just floored with this insight.👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@youknownow1948]

I helped rescue Vietnamese and Cambodian boat people spring of 1975. We took them back to Grande Island, Philippines. There they were given medical attention, food and necessities. Once recuperate they were transported to many countries, many to America. This was one of my proudest moments while serving in the Navy. I am 73, grew up in an orphanage in Kentucky and was so very poor as a child. I love this country as do those I helped to get here.

[@zoso73]

Gary, thank you for your service. I am in awe of you. God bless.

[@stephenbloch4688]

Gary my parents were refugees! America is the land were dreams can come true! It is a land blessed by G-d.

[@danimal1043]

Thank you for your service. God bless you sir

[@guymoore6762]

God Bless You, and thank you for your service Sir!

[@runninggirl2765]

Thank you for your service to our country and for your compassion to do the right thing. God Bless You.

[@HuyNguyen-bd1pn]

Thank you all America people that was accepted us Vietnamese to USA

[@Plutonium_2_3_9]

We love you...and Pho...

[@dragonboy718]

we love you all

[@billwilson5341]

I had Vietnamese neighbors for years. They were the best neighbors. I watched their children grow up to be productive citizens. They've moved to another state. I, and my neighbors, will miss them. We wish them well. I do not disagree with To Leyik.

[@billwilson5341]

Ludwig Von Yharnam f/k/a hallo galaxis: There is no politics in this conversation. Now, go back to your Safe Space and leave us in peace.

[@renecordova6349]

Huy Nguyen ...Thank you for appreciating this country! I am an Air Force vet and was in Vietnam in 1968. You are greatly welcome in the USA!

[@jungojerry1658]

I am a U S Marine and Vietnam veteran, 1967. So happy over this story. To the rescue captain: cảm ơn bạn, bạn tôi

[@williamdavidberry8473]

I was on the USS Parsons (DDG-33) when we rescued Vietnamese boat people in 1979 and again in 1980. To see the squalor, hunger and thirst on the boats was heart wrenching. This story brought tears to my eyes and reminded me that I'd been part of something good. Thank you.

[@DonML83]

Thank you so much sir!

[@ChrissieSM]

God bless you, William.

[@jerryrobinson6250]

You did good Bill. Keep on doing the things that are important to us..and that is to help those in need. Thank you

[@LE-bi7hm]

Good morning America ... Sir. I salute and appreciated the job well done in South China Sea rescued the Vietnamese refuged the animal communist Vietnam regime .. I wish this new year 2019 will bring you much joy. , peace ten thousand of happiness To you , your families and to all American ... Again thank you for your service. ...

[@qdang1433]

You are an angel sent by God to rescue us. Thank you so much brother. (From a boat people.)

[@felyhiggins1584]

I was on a Navy destroyer in 1983 off the coast of Vietnam. We rescued 68 people and I can remember what a great feeling it was.

[@PiseyHean]

Thank you 🙏 🙏🙏🙏💗💞❤️🌈

[@jimmylee377]

Thank you, God bless the USA, and you ...

[@Mayflower6871]

Thank you for your service Sir. God bless.

[@luckylindy1776]

imagine BOAT PPL all trying to flee since 1975...!!?? (sadly some Boat Ppl did not survive....stories from F&Families)

[@quangb9080]

I too am a boat person from 1977! I used to be embarrassed about it but now I'm proud to be one of millions of boat people from Vietnam!

[@debibarrington4697]

Quang B ..God bless you..and love to you

[@wd4030]

Be proud

[@chippi09]

Nothing to be embarrassed about, we all do anything to survive...and only the strong survive and you are one of them. God Bless.

[@1gallimaufry]

Quang B And we are glad to have you here!

[@victorsr6708]

Quang B yes be proud and never let your family forget how you got to this great country. Everyone in this country got here somehow unless they are Native American. The problem is people forget. I raised my kids to know how our family got here and to remember to be welcoming of others that have joined our great country. I’m glad you’ve joined us.

[@chobanco3574]

I am an old man but I still cried every time I watched. I also escaped in a small fishing boat. We were lost at sea for 8 days. During this time I had a tiny cup of muddy water a day and this was all I had. I did not go to the restroom once. I think my body was in the early stage of shutting down. Had we not seen the US and Indonesia oil refinery I would only last for a couple of days. Oh well, FREEDOM is NOT FREE. I am an engineer and this is my story I like to share.

[@williamhoskins7818]

Welcome brother cho .

[@unndunn1]

I’m glad you made it through that time

[@michaelalando]

That was great. Thanks to them and thanks for sharing. Share with as many as possible, many people need to hear such stories of hope fulfilled

[@RedRiver_2747]

God bless you friend

[@michaelweeks9317]

We are so glad you made it Sir. Our country is a better place with our Vietnamese Citizens. God bless you! Michael Weeks, San Antonio Texas.

[@MinhvuLy]

I am not ashamed to admit I cried listening to her poignant and eloquent description of how grateful she is.

[@renecordova6349]

Minhvu Ly ....I did also, and I am not ashamed to cry, even though I am almost 72 years old and a male...

[@levidinh29]

@@renecordova6349 i hope you are doing well sir

[@deenugent473]

It's ok brother! I did too 😉

[@sarephbtmistari8909]

Same here. When people help and uplift one another we truly shine as a species.

[@georgewest8468]

@@renecordova6349 Ah, Grasshopper, I had tears rolling down my 81 year old cheeks too. We are both partners in crying happy, and it feels so good.

[@pepeaguilar2205]

I served aboard the USS Robison (DDG-12), and we rescued two groups of Vietnamese refugees in December of 1980 (one of them known today as "Boat 262"). I was 20 years old at the time. Certain haunting images, especially the burials at sea and the starving children, are part of who I am. My only regret was not being able to do more for them. Those days I walked among heroes...Vietnamese and American.

[@kan9431]

Jose Jose Thank you sir ,for helping my people. God bless

[@pepeaguilar2205]

@@kan9431 No need to thank my Ms. Khong - I wish I would have done more. Pay it forward, please... : )

[@lalilulelo7683]

Cam on Chu

[@pepeaguilar2205]

@@lalilulelo7683 You are welcome... : )

[@tab5470]

Thank you Pepe

[@RJTF]

SHE SAID IT. I love her metaphor of the hyphen as a bridge- not a divider

[@cynthiabustamante2884]

RJ Fernandez Me too.❤

[@Asskicker14]

That was awesome

[@louiszepeda9254]

good observation, rj

[@dongilleo9743]

As soon as someone who has followed the rules takes the oath of citizenship, and becomes a citizen of the United States, as far as I am concerned they are a fellow American citizen, who I would embrace. I don't care where they might have come from. Any hyphenated addition is just expressing heritage.

[@jjbigfoot9077]

For most it IS a divider sadly. It's become a way for Democrats to perpetuate the "victim" mentality.

[@johnalarcon5006]

These are people that are truly thankful for America God bless all of those immigrants!!!!!

[@craigkeller]

I’m a 70 year old retired construction worker, crying my eyes out.

[@user-jo7wf9wf9u]

Craig Keller -29, doing the same...

[@alikhan-uh3sq]

-30.....me to mate, I just couldn't help it.

[@Sam-gn6og]

@Craig if 10 days has been so traumatic, imagine the Palestinians or Syrians who have lived under attacks by the Israeli forces....Israel has been killing innocent young boys for decades and stripping their families from the basic human rights, yet nobody talks....except perhaps George Callaway who's that vociferous

[@sriharsha9262]

Construction work made your body hard, but not your heart, sir.

[@lamborgini86]

thank you for your service in building your country literally

[@mattmasc6386]

“That hyphen is a bridge”. Beautiful.

[@aliciao.5731]

These men are true angels and Christians. The Vietnamese family is beautiful!!!

[@zumbavideo724]

yes! Jesus has many blessings waiting for them !!

[@DonML83]

There are no words to express my gratitude to American people. America opened her arms to accept and welcome me from the refugee camp. When I came here, I knew only few words in English. I got a job as a janitor after few days setting my feet on this beautiful land. I worked two, three jobs a week. After two years, I decided to go school full time and worked part time. I am now retired at young age and travel the world and also volunteer to do some community works. From bottom of my heart I am very grateful to America. If I cannot do anything better for this country, I will ever never do any harm to this beautiful land.

[@JL-tu6ob]

Sir with America in a social crisis, with people convinced that society is hopelessly racist I am very happy that people like you are saying the truth about America. My parents immigrated from WW2 Europe and never looked back. Its all about hope, respect and liberty. America is us...God bless you !

[@michaelmckinley3494]

🙏🏼❤️

[@rmraiders24]

Love this too

[@ralphalvarez5465]

Thank you for reminding us of the greatness of America.

[@susanmiller6237]

God bless America

[@64CSAR]

I’m an American viet. My family grew up in Vietnam and had to escape due to the war. My grand parents and parents both came to the us via small shipping vessels as well. Both of my grandfathers fought along side US troops against the vietcong during the war, and my grampa on my moms side was captured and was a POW for 5 years before he escaped. Till this day he talks about how cruel the Vietcong was. I ended up enlisting for 6 years in the US Army to give back to this great country of ours. My cousin is currently doing a tour overseas with the 10th mountain division. I’ll always be forever grateful for this wonderful country that I can call my own. God bless.

[@racerd9669]

As a Vietnam veteran , how I wish we could have saved all the people of south Vietnam, such wonderful people.

[@tab5470]

Thank you for your service and for your kind words...

[@therabbitnews9362]

I'm a refugee too. When marines were killed by the bomb in Beirut, I told myself that it was time to pay back to AMERICA. They brought us and gave us a new life. I joined the US Marine Corps. I gave up my good paying job.

[@williamhoskins7818]

Thank you brother. Semper fi. I was in marines the day Saigon Fell . The Entire corps cried that day. You know, in our tough guys Way . Nothing but respect. You guys are just awesome, culture, people, and inner strength. God bless you, semper fi bro.

[@Mr12ob]

I'm a former US Marine, OIF 9-1. I was wondering, a you a Maronite ?

[@leatherwoodjay]

Thank you for your sacrifice and service to the country you love just like I do!

[@levidinh29]

Sir, thank you for your service.

[@loganbaileysfunwithtrains606]

Thank you for your service to our great and noble nation

[@cynthiahawkins2389]

Hey from New Orleans. We have a long established Vietnamese community here. People came from Saigon, and the Mekong to settle in Louisiana, the deltas being so much alike geographically. The weather, the maritime/fishing industry..now the children born in New Orleans to Vietnamese immigrants... are lawyers, Doctors, and very much a part of life here. I adore Banh Trang, and Vietnamese dishes. And so appreciate this wonderful addition to the flavor of our state!

[@ashleydawson54]

Lily's is the best!

[@candicetran9620]

Great to know. In CALI, SAN FRANSISCO, CHICAGO, NYC, PORTLAND, white and blak bloody racist & violent hateful to Vietnamese American & ASIAN AMERICAN. Vietnamese - SOUTHEAST ASIAN is beautiful, smart & hardworking, friendly ppl. VIETNAMESE AMERICAN IS ONE OF MOST BLENDING WELL WITG LOCALS & OTHERS CULTURES Vietnamese American is LESS TROUBLEMAKER IF COMPARE TO OTHERS IMMIGRANT GROUPS. but theyre still facing the mosr bloody racist & violent hateful attack in US. Btw, FIRST CHINESE CHEAP LABOR IMMIGRABT WORKERS IS GREAT COMMUNITY AS WELL. theyre bought there alnost 200y in Hawaii, Cali, Louiana as well. 2014 i was know Chinese American guy, he was 7 generation CHINESE AMERICAN, his great-great grandparent was bought there as Slaves in 1815s in Maryland. Vietnamese, Chinese and Pinoys is great immigrants who continue build this country, consider this is their country since theyre born and raise rest life there. Before boat ppl, Vietnamese labor workers was bough to America just like Chinesw & Pinoys in early 1800s to 1900s. Alots of their next-next generation is born and raise in Us, theyre become part of this country.

[@luckylindy1776]

alot of Viet ppl are in HOUSTON, TX too!!!.....lol

[@Allittakesiswillpower8371]

Vetnamese people are the most hardworking and law abiding citizens. I like them.

[@JorgeTapis]

I know I work with them.

[@FORTHEBY_BY]

When I was 13 I loved in a small, very white, very Catholic town in the Midwest. Our church supported some Vietnamese refugees and brought them to live in our town. It was the first time I saw Asians. I was in awe. I loved their beautiful church outfits, glowing long black hair, beautiful faces and skin-just everything about them. We used to go to their home and play with our new classmates. I remember how different the food smelled and trying to learn Vietnamese words. It was so much fun and made a whole lot of difference in my life and made me want to travel the globe-which I did!

[@lotto5742]

When I was in the Army, a white guy from Nebraska never saw an Asian in his life.

[@Rhaspun]

@@lotto5742 That's what happened with my dad. He didn't talk much about his time in the US Army for WW 2. He was drafted after he immigrated here from China. He told me one guy looked at him with astonishment at seeing an actual Asian at boot camp. The guy had heard about Asians but had never seen one. Very likely as back in those days Asians were truly a minority of the population.

[@kimmykieu1]

Omg! I have the same experience but the opposite. I am Vietnamese. In 1975, my family was sponsored by the Catholic church from midwest in a little town called Savannah. I was about 12 at the time. I remember i used to hang around with some of my American classmates. It was fascinating for me to see how difference in appearance we are. I think their fair skin and big eyes are so beautiful. Eventually one of my classmates become my best friend. After school and on the weekend, she would come over my house and we would played together. I learned English from her and she would learned Vietnamese from me. Also, i would introduce her to Vietnamese cuisine. We keep in touch for a while after my family move to another state. She came to see me once in west coast, and I would fly back for her wedding as one of her bridesmaids . However, over the years, we lost contact. I would love to find her again. That was one of the most unforgetable experience of my childhood.

[@minhtran2160]

@@kimmykieu1 I've seen stories like this where people end up reconnecting or finding each other through the help of Facebook. Try using social media to find your friend. Be as detailed as possible, I would love to see the results.

[@jhoang861]

❤️🥰❤️

[@bigteep]

As a Vietnam veteran 67, welcome to our great country. Like all countries it's not perfect but it's people like you that make it even better. Welcome.....Blessings to you and your family.

[@louiszepeda9254]

right on tony

[@DatNguyen-et1mi]

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU, SIR 💗

[@ameliaross854]

Thank you, God bless you too sir 😊

[@Randommmmmm175]

Thank you for your service

[@CandC68]

VN vet, 67 - 68. Stories like this one are important. Reminders that the successes were outnumbered by the loses. Vietnamese friends I knew were in the military. I have no doubt that they didn't survive the war. It was a time, terrible for people in SE Asia; Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos..... To put things in perspective to people now a days. Years after the war, I played volleyball. Where I met one of my friends who was from Cambodia. He somehow escaped. But he lost his family, everyone in his village, and probably everyone he had ever seen in his life. There was no consoling him or even any use in trying to share what he must have felt. Unimaginable.

[@christiangreathouse9946]

She said it so well... I am Vietnamese cause it's my heritage but I am an American cause it's my country... may God bless her and the men who saved them...

[@uptone12111]

What an amazing family .Proud Americans who take nothing for granted.

[@fitz235]

I was born in an Indonesian Red Cross refugee camp in the 80's. At the age of 34, I joined the US Army to repay back my debt and show my gratitude to America and American's for their efforts during and after the war. Thank God for the foundations of America.

[@TofuProductionCinema]

Respect, my father did the same - thank you for your service as well.

[@kegobloganunfaedah1364]

im indonesia did you born in pulau galang

[@ygus3030]

You must borned in pulang Galang near Bintan Island., Indonesia. Your parents may knew one Chinese contractor work for UNHCR who always drove a truck to pick up Vietnam refugees arrived at the harbour. His name is Aliong.

[@donmartin2025]

I was on the USS Tarawa (LHA-1) when we rescued 463 vietnamese refugees. A heartbreaking sight to see, of the condition of these men, women and children. A pregnant woman gave birth to a baby girl while on board the Tarawa, delivered by navy corpsmen.....out of gratitude the mother named that child Grace Tarawa....some 35 years later I was listening to AFN radio while living in Okinawa Japan and listened in to her (Grace) speaking, telling her story of the rescue and visiting her home,,,,the Tarawa when it pulled into Sasebo Japan ,, at that time its home port. She called it home. We sheltered, clothed, fed and protected them from further danger. It was a feeling unexplainable to have been a part of that humanitarian effort. I would have loved to have met Grace Tarawa. I hope they have all found peace in this world.

[@jennywelp2927]

google search of her name shows she later re-visited the ship, and works in Philidelphia.

[@kevingrady8736]

Those men are heroes.

[@nonoydukes4429]

My native country philippines helped Vietnamese Brothers and sisters stay in Palawan while they process their papers to go to America. We love our fellow asian Vietnamese Brothers.

[@henrydo4640]

My friend, very true. My older siblings and aunts stayed at refugee camps in the Philippines. Your people were very hospitable. I couldn’t say the same thing about other Asian countries. The Filipinos have a special place in our hearts.

[@HN-nu6ed]

Thank you Philippines. You were very good and kind to us.

[@ducsieuma8884]

we indeed thank you and your country a lot!

[@brian1801]

How can you not love these people? Both the rescued and rescuers represent the best of what it means to be an American.

[@paulbrown8370]

I am a Vietnam Veteran who served two tours in country back then. I suffer from Agent Orange and PTSD, but if I had to do it over again, I would go back in a second, I loved it there and the people. I have about 256 kids in Vietnam today. Let me explain, I kind of got into it by accident, but I love it. I am teaching English to the kids in Vietnam, online and through Skype video. I have many teachers there also that I help also. I do this because I love the kids and people, I do not get paid at all for this, I do it because I want to help them as much as I can, many of the kids refer to me as "Daddy", "Grandpa" Or "Brother". That makes me proud. My Granddaughter I helped through four years of college to get a Bachelors Degree and she now speaks 5 languages and has a great job. I am very Proud of this girl. She is my Baby!!!!

[@tnguyenvu1]

Thank you Paul. Very much appreciated.

[@kan9431]

Paul Brown. Thank you, sir, for being a great American. From the bottom of my heart, I bow to those who help to fight the VN war, our heroes.

[@jeaniejbutler4911]

Thanks for being a good man.

[@paulbrown8370]

@@jeaniejbutler4911 Thank you so much for the kind words, but i enjoy doing what i do for the kids, they keep me going and have saved my life in a way. After i had my heart attack the kids contacted me and asked to talk with me, that is how it all started and i helped them with some school work and it went from there. I love the people and the country so much, i wish i could go be, if I do, i may stay there for good this time and live there with the kids and take care of my "Granddaughter" up north.

[@lgarcia67]

One of my ex-bosses was a Vietnam vet. He was actually part of a special ops group. He had the most harrowing stories about Vietnam. He was very traumatized. Yet he was absolutely dedicated to helping the Vietnamese community and immigrants in general. A very kind hearted man. To this day I still talk to him even though he is retired. I’m happy that we crossed paths.

[@dvt6481]

“My heritage is Vietnamese and America is my home”.... Thank you my sister for representing us boat people .🙏🏼

[@mickemike2148]

A sudden rainstorm appeared in my eyes just now. Thank you America!

[@StJohn-cb6if]

"Every time I have something good to eat, I think of them."

[@darthbiker2311]

Broke down right here, when I heard this. All those years and she never failed to appreciate.

[@adewgloprado5009]

❤❤💗💗

[@kevinmcbein7795]

This is what being a True Human being & a fellowmen for all. #HumanLove 😎❤️🇵🇭

[@phongn9333]

Thank you so much America 🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸❤️

[@Joojoobeans]

5:29 Wow the way she expressed the hyphen as a bridge. That was so deeply touching :')

[@haithai225]

I was also a boat person. Although I was not as lucky as Lauren. But I still feel grateful to my second country. The United States of America and I am proud to be American - Vietnamese!!!

[@renecordova6349]

Hai Thai ...You are greatly appreciated and welcomed to being my fellow countryman.... I served in US military in Vietnam in 1968...

[@johnrichards2732]

I am also a Vietnam Veteran 67/68. Seeing how some people in our world have to live, made me greatly appreciate my home in America. I'm glad some of these people were able to make a better life by coming to our Country.

[@xenomorph6599]

People like you give me hope for this country. God bless

[@catbien100]

By the generocity of the US people… I came to USA as a young refugee man from Viet Nam in 1975 … I worked labor jobs and was amitted to a college in PA … then eventually finished my BS, MS and MBA degrees … now I work at the US Patent and Trademark Office examining new inventions and loving my challenging job so much … no matter what other people may say I love this country the USA tremendously …

[@richardfolkman]

My cousin was 19 years old when he was killed in Vietnam. When the refugees got here to the US in the '70's, I never hated any one of them. We all knew they needed a chance too. These stories honor my cousin. We are happy for these families. Vietnam suffered so much. And us too. I hate war. My aunt cried till she died , when she remembered my cousin.

[@ChrissieSM]

Richard, you are a good man, God bless you. The world would be a better place with more people like you.

[@kan9431]

Richard Folkman ...Sorry, sir, for the loss of your cousin. All of Viet oversea appreciate the unsung hero who died in VN war for our freedom. God bless him and your aunt.

[@ThanhHuynh-hp7mz]

Bless those who have lost loved ones..

[@calvinl9426]

Its the people that give the order to go to war to be blame

[@tab5470]

Dear Rich, I'm so sorry for your lost and your aunt who never stop mourning her son until she pass. I'm happy a you're a reasonable and logical human that you would wrongfully displace anger and resentment toward the Vietnamese, they are the casualties of war just as your cousin. They are the victim of the circumstance that created by their governments...

[@wangchuklama7350]

This is what we call a real hero. 🙏🙏🙏💪💪

[@michaelottesen6143]

I wish more people spoke like her and how they love this country

[@krishnahandoko6578]

Every time I have something good to eat I think of them... This word literally brought me drown to tears 😢😢😢

[@VietNguyen-sm4dw]

I was a Vietnamese boy who was brought to the US in 1975 by a retired USAF colonel and sponsored by a former US veteran to resettle in the US with the help of the church. I want to thank all the American people with big hearts and I salute the US soldiers once served in Vietnam. I don't think we would ever be given the opportunity to live free and to prosper if we ever immigrated to other countries. The US still needs more work but it's my country now so we have to make it better for all.

[@ericstormdragon3534]

Thank you Viet Nguyen.

[@xenomorph6599]

Thank you for making the USA a better place!

[@michaelfitzgerald434]

We will always need more work. That is our secret, to keep improving and perfecting our heritage to the best of our ability!

[@sanjosemichal6274]

there's something we can't repay even in our whole life but, we can appreciate it and always remember what we owe them forever.

[@mizzury54]

Vietnamese people are very family oriented , hard working and job conscientious. They had made a very positive contribution to this country.

[@chekdathoo2172]

She basic express for all of the refugees that saved by America. My tear of appreciation will never stop. Again thank you so much for saved my family and I and many other families.

[@stevec7445]

I live in Houston and we have a very large Vietnamese community here, very nice people.

[@wilhelminoalfred3584]

i could not hold my emotion to the plight of our brothers and sisters from Vietnam after the Vietnam war that ended in 1975. God bless!!! from the Philippines..

[@allendavidson4201]

As a Vietnam vet am so proud that some good came out of the war and these people are proud to have become American citizens.

[@louiszepeda9254]

well said allen

[@tab5470]

Thank you for your service and your sacrifice.

[@musk-eteer9898]

thank you

[@nogunnofear6703]

As a Vietnam era veteran I love this story. Well done all around. 🎇🇺🇲🎇

[@braincrashtv8377]

Vietnamese woman paying her debt of honor.Such noble act

[@xavierdimfit7471]

Salute to those heroes who saved them..

[@surfwaves8636]

I spent 4 years in the U.S. Navy from 1978 -82. We picked up 3 different loads of Vietnamese in the South China Seas. We dropped one load off in the Philippines, one in Malaysia, and one in Thailand. I always wondered what happened to those people. I always prayed for their success.

[@luckylindy1776]

from my F&Family experience....most stayed in the REFUGEE Camps all over the Pacific, until they got US SPONSORSHIPS....my Mom sponsored 8 of her sisters and she was really poor back then.....Hmmm

[@Darby-z5x]

That was an epic story. Thank GOD they were rescued

[@magicmike9004]

What a beautiful touching story! In the early 1980’s, I was the refugee coordinator for the USDA food stamp program. I had the opportunity to meet many Vietnamese people who were coming into our country at that time. So many of them, within months of arriving here in the United States, secured employment, learned our language, and went to school/universities. Within months, they were off of the welfare and food stamp programs and were supporting themselves. And, they were all so thankful to have this opportunity to live and work in the United States. What a remarkable people, they are!

[@DatNguyen-et1mi]

Thank you very much for your services and may God bless you sir 💗

[@ql688]

so sad. I was born here in 1980. But My parents and 3 siblings were her age when they fled in 78. And the stories they told me made me cry. They were picked up by a cruise ship and brought to a refugee camp in thailand then brought to the US LA California

[@wxx3]

This is what makes Americans great, a generosity that no other country in the world exhibits.

[@francisshaw7020]

My last cruise in the navy, aboard the Enterprise, we were able to rescue a family in 1978. They had seen one of our aircraft flying overhead so they set their fishing boat on fire to attract the attention of the aircraft. They then manned an inflatable and hoped for the best. The Enterprise was notified and made way in the direction of the refugees. It was sometime after dark when our ship got to the area; at that time search lights were trained to the port side and we manned the rails. Off in the distance one could hear the sound of a small motor and finally see the overcrowded dingy approaching. They were a bunch of happy folks!

[@stevenmaza1372]

After listening to this story, it makes me stop and appreciate just all that I have in life. Being born and raised here in the states we take it for granted. This story is a reminder of just how blessed we are.

[@mulyadinaiborhu7275]

I am Indonesian and I am living in Batam Island, Riau Archipelago Province, Indonesia. There is an Island we called with Galang Island and we also call this island with Kampung Vietnam. This was the place where a lot of Vietnam refuges was placed. Honestly, every time we go there, its like silent, calm and touching. Settlement, hospital, boat wreck, church, tombs and a lot of names in the wall sometimes just brought us to tears... May God bless their soul...

[@robertplant2059]

I have a tear in my eyes and pain in my heart. We had a girl in our school and we treated her extremely poorly. I wish I could see her now and apologize. The ignorance and innocence of children can and does often hurt those that have endured too much pain. I hope she is living an incredible life.

[@mikewrasman5103]

I had the same situation. We treated a classmate so badly that she left the school. She deserved much better from us.

[@richardperez9068]

funny how 1st generation Americans seem to be more grateful of America..more than some Americans born here...being 1st generation American from Ecuador..my mother always told us to love and appreciate this great country..great story

[@cheerp7313]

How honorable these ladies are! Lovely souls! They did not give up on their resolve to express gratefulness.

[@imbogart]

America is and will always be a great country. Thank you to the heroes like these guys.

[@ericstormdragon3534]

@Chris Nguyen Sadly I think we did. If only we didn't have that regrettable treaty with the French.

[@didequen3339]

I am one of those Vietnamese... great thank to this country and of course we will do everything we can to build this nation better. I used to herd buffalos as a boy and now i am an aerospace engineer working with both military and civil airplanes....i rose up from 2 empty hands (i had NOTHING when i stepped on the American soil). I was treated better than i was in Vietnam. I am not sure why a lot of people didnt realize about the privileges they have everyday. We are too spoiled some times

[@kimlangridge7969]

I am American. God bless you and your family forever: we are so glad you are here.

[@JD-gj2rj]

Bless these men! Look what you did!

[@VIKING33NY]

Lauren Vuong, Touching Story of Survival and Triumph!!! GOD Bless you and your family!!

[@catherinedarcy9760]

I cried. Such a good story about when America was welcoming to those desperately in need.

[@lindas6019]

I, too was a boat people from VN in 1979-80. We drifted at sea for one week, over 100 people on a small wooden fishing boat without any water or food. My dad died of dehydration before my mother flagged down a US Navy vessel and begged them to rescue us. My mother came to the US in the 1960s as an exchange student but escaped VN with the only a shirt on her back. I wished I could find the Navy men who rescued us to thank them for saving my life.

[@buicklesabre4466]

L S Hello,my Name is Aaron. I was a U.S. Marine in 1979. The ship I was on,the USS Tarawa, resqued about 400 refugees. Do you remember the name of the ship that resqued you?

[@maysusana1]

Yea, do you remember the name of the ship?

[@charleshoang6481]

In 1981 our boat engine dead we drift at sea for 4 weeks but no one died because I used diesel fuel to distilled sea water, I am really proud of myself,God send me to help my compatriots !

[@Strider5150]

Buick Lesabre thank you Aaron for your service to your country 👍.

[@valorieb5297]

So glad you were able to be rescued. What an amazing story. I hope you find the Navy men who helped you.

[@charmnGUY]

We are (my fam) are boat people! We want extend our gratitude to the men and women of the U.S. carrier that rescued us...exactly like the picture of 30-40 people crammed on the fishing boat!

[@tekkenfan01]

Thank you America and Americans for helping the Vietnamese, the greatest country in the world, we can do so much, be kind to others and help whenever you can

[@bluerosecraft6612]

That the year I was born.

[@tonywaritony9656]

Thankyou tk

[@TheScarecrow78]

I'm a grown man and this brought tears to my eyes. Great story.

[@01Sterlitz]

I had a friend in high school in fall of 1975, named Phung, who was a boat person. He didn't know english, but we hung out together anyway. These people are immigrants, unlike the illegal aliens we have today sneaking across our borders. I am proud of all who come here legally and wish to be part of our country, These people who leave dire situations appreciate what they have here. I appreciate them.

[@pastorbill7374]

These were such a great and hard working people..MANY WERE MY LIFE SAVERS IN NAM

[@williampaz2092]

I was onboard USS O’Brien DD-975 on my first WestPac deployment in 1983 when we picked up a boatload of Vietnamese refugees.

[@thele6912]

God bless all those people who saved all those boat people

[@rodelbunag9823]

This is so touching moment i am a filipino i know what these people from vietnam have been through ,i couldnt hold back my tears!

[@claudiaweber7011]

Those are “Real” men and heroes. God bless them and the people they saved. 🙏❤️

[@hohunghau]

I was a Vietnamese boat people in the late 70's when I was a kid. America has welcomed me here and provided me an opportunity to study, to work, and to become a productive citizen. Not a day goes by that I don't appreciate America for its generosity and kindness. Thank you America!

[@jesusramos1440]

Do you still have the same feeling for America.what with all that's happened in your Life and times while witnessing the Upheaval.?

[@ReptarTheUgly]

This is why I love America! God damn it. No matter what’s going on in this country and how hateful people can be.

[@franknewton594]

Calling this a great story is an understatement. Wonderful all the way around.🇺🇲🇺🇸🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲

[@marinegrunt6633]

I served 32 months in Vietnam, there are good people everywhere, welcome to America.

[@kan9431]

marinegrunt66...Thank you, sir, for your served in VN

[@grandma27or8]

What a wonderful family. Every Person I know from Vietnam works very hard, they are genuinely good people and inspire their children to study hard and do well. I say WELCOME!!

[@thedollbabys1073]

they work too hard. My nail lady works 7 days a week 8-10 pm no days off. She never complains. I love her

[@tab5470]

My white American husband who work 7 days/wk from 9A-12MN, He have never work a 45-50 hours work week in the 27 years that we have been married and 29 years that we knew each other...

[@stepstep865]

what a wonderfull story reading at 12.50pm from Malaysia,29/12/2020...cried thru out lovely story of thier journey in life...oh Lord Bless Them.... to the men who saved them.....God Bless you guys....

[@queent3343]

This is wonderful story. I wish Americans felt like this today.

[@deenugent473]

As a 1975 refugee, I thank you America and God Bless the wonderful people who had helped us restart our new life in America. 🙏🙏🙏

[@macone4580]

My entire family escaped in 1979. I was 5. I still remember the boat ride to Thailand. Many families were lost or separated at sea. Luckily my family made it. We will always be grateful to the US. Had to fight back tears watching this.

[@jerrydonquixote5927]

I'm so glad these people made it, and I'm so glad people are good enough to help, because that's just the right thing to do always! Welcome to America and we love you here!❤

[@aricmackenthun47]

These men are hero's. I really do wish that more people were like them.

[@66samdog]

I went to school in Meridian Idaho with a few families from Vietnam. Very smart and dedicated students. I was kind to those who were new and taught my children the same.

[@waterheaterservices]

Never forget April 30 1975. Love Viet people.

[@kan9431]

Jim Rr...thank you, sir . Never forget April 30th ,1975. God bless.

[@llspragulus]

This is the story of my Korean family. I cried so hard.

[@RichardsWorld]

My dad was in the Air Force in Vietnam and in his free time he taught English to locals. My mom claimed my dad as hers and told other ladies to not mess with him. Well, they got married and she came to the US and gave birth to my brother first, then me and later on my sister.

[@ThanhHuynh-hp7mz]

Wonderful!

[@binhnguyen-sf8nt]

Thank you so much for doing this sister. We are grateful for those people saving us. I'm not the boat people but I am Vietnamese.

[@andrewkern8247]

Very emotional story. I knew a lot of Hmong, Laotian, and Vietnamese refugee in Milwaukee when I lived with my dad in the late 80.

[@kyannickk2be]

I just cried seeing her cry after seeing them

[@stevent425]

This story should be taught in schools an Appreciation for this incredible country!!! The appreciation these people have is amazing, and I mean on both sides. To help someone is the greatest thing you can accomplish. The persons helped in turn thrived, what a tidal wave of good that came from this action.

[@PacoOtis]

The world needs more people like these.