State of the World from NPR Seeking Closure 50 Years After the End of the Vietnam War
Apr 29, 2025
Fifty years after the Vietnam War, one man's heartfelt journey unfolds as he travels from Seattle to Laos. His quest for answers about his father's disappearance leads him to the daunting peaks of Lima Site 85. This poignant exploration sheds light on the lasting impacts of the war and the tireless work of recovery teams dedicated to bringing closure to grieving families. Join him as he confronts memories and seeks peace amid the scars of history.
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Rick Holland's Father's Secret Duty
- Rick Holland's father served at a secret radar station on a mountain in Laos during the Vietnam War. - The station was attacked, and Holland's father was presumed dead after years of uncertainty.
Many Remain Missing in Laos
- Over 1,570 Americans remain unaccounted for from the Vietnam War. - More than 280 of them are believed to be in Laos, highlighting ongoing uncertainty and efforts for closure.
Heroism at Lima Site 85
- Chief Master Sergeant Richard Etchberger heroically called airstrikes near his position during the Lima Site 85 attack. - He helped men escape before dying from gunfire, earning a posthumous Medal of Honor.