Kilmer, Reichert Want To Honor Vietnam Era Air Medics

From Washington Reps: Reps. Dave Reichert (WA-08) and Derek Kilmer (WA-06) introduced a bill to award an elite group of Vietnam veterans with the Congressional Gold Medal. ‘Dust Off’ crews, as they were known by their radio call sign, flew unarmed air ambulances into hostile areas to rescue the wounded and provided critical medical treatment as they evacuated troops during the Vietnam War. The Dust Off Crews of the Vietnam War Congressional Gold Medal Act would award members of the Vietnam-era Dust Off crews with the Congressional Gold Medal.

“Committed to never leaving one of their fellow soldiers behind, American Dust Off Crews of the Vietnam War risked and put their lives on the line - often flying into enemy fire in high-casualty war zones – to come to the aid of wounded American soldiers,” said Rep. Reichert. “Over the course of the war, their bravery and experience led to the rescue of nearly 900,000 American soldiers. The Dust Off Crews of the Vietnam War Congressional Gold Medal Act is just a small way to express our gratitude for their unwavering patriotism against the toughest of odds.”

“Dustoff Crews serving in the Army risked their lives to bring others back safely,” said Rep. Kilmer. “But their contributions and sacrifices are too often a forgotten story of the Vietnam War. I’m proud to work with Representative Reichert to properly thank these servicemembers for what they accomplished.”

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