TOP (Tours Of Peace) Vietnam Veterans

Face of Veterans Day

2011-11-07T17:56:00.000-07:00

November 11th, Veterans Day, is set aside to honor all those who served honorably in the military - in wartime or peacetime. Veterans Day is an opportunity to acknowledge veteran's contributions to our national security. This is a day for expression of appreciation and underscores the fact that all those who served - not only those who died - have sacrificed and done their duty.

It is important that we say "Thank you" now; especially as many of our veterans grow older.

TOP Vietnam Veterans expresses our gratitude to veterans on Veterans Day. Today, we pay special tribute to Donald Lonsway, who examples the veterans we honor on this day. When you think of our veterans, think of special people like Don. Don traveled with us on a Tour Of Peace and is pictured left at Wunder Beach in Viet Nam--a place and site of personal meaning for Don.

Don was born, raised and lived his life in southern Maine. He never had a refrigerator until his junior year in high school, when he saved money from a high school job and bought one for his mother's Christmas present.

Don taught for one year before receiving his draft notice, at the age of twenty-five. The average age of American soldiers in Vietnam was nineteen; his fellow soldiers would call him "Daddy Don."

Don at Wunder Beach, Vietnam, 1968

Don's military job was as a combat journalist. Most of his time was spent with infantry units. He would be with a unit from 5-14 days, return to the LZ (landing zone) for a day to write stories and then go out in the field with another company.

One of Don's favorite Viet Nam memories was playing Santa Clause to Vietnamese children in the village of Phuoch Vinh in 1968. His "sleigh" was a helicopter.

Don aka "Santa Claus," among disadvantaged Vietnamese children on a Tour Of Peace

As if war were not challenging enough, Don became a casualty of the soldier's feared "Dear John" letter. "I went to Viet Nam engaged to a person I wanted to marry and live with for the rest of my life. Nearly nine months after I left home, I received a letter telling me she had fallen in love with someone else." He never married.

Don returned with a Bronze Star but was not welcomed home with a hero's welcome. "I was waiting at the airport in Chicago for my flight to Boston when some college kids came up to me and called me names and spit on my uniform."

In addition to returning with a Bronze Star, he also returned home with PTSD. "I came home a different person. I wanted so much to talk about the horror I'd seen and experienced. I just wanted to have someone listen and be willing to help me re-adjust to being 'back in the world'. That did not happen."

Don resumed his career in education, "Helping kids gave me a reason for living; I gave up thinking I could ever marry and raise my own family a long time ago. I love kids and my job allowed me to work with them and help them as a counselor and in return I received the feeling of self-worth that I had lost when I returned from Viet Nam."

Upon retirement, after 36 years in education, Don decided to return to Viet Nam with TOP Vietnam Veterans and said, "Returning to Vietnam is the last piece to my healing process." Don did just that and returned to Viet Nam with TOP. His trip was powerful and healing.

Don next to lady in white at TOP wheelchair project for physically challenged students.

Don with physically challenged orphans

Don and a school for visually impaired students

On his Tour Of Peace, Don would realize his dream to participate in humanitarian work, especially with schools and children.

Don speaks on behalf of TOP's Scholarship for disadvantaged children

But Don would have one more battle to fight--prostate cancer which Don attributed to Agent Orange exposure. "I'll fight it as long as I have the strength to do so." He continued,"I learned to accept death--that I could die at any moment. I appreciated every day of life after Nam."

Last month, October 23, Don lost his battle to prostate cancer. He was a veteran and casualty of the Viet Nam War--but never a victim. He fought the brave fight, "as long as he had the strength" with appreciation of every day of life. Don was a role model for the next generation and a wonderful face for the veterans we celebrate on Veterans Day. We are thankful for Donald Lonsway and are grateful for many veterans who have walked the same path he has. When faced with the prognosis of not being able to return with TOP on our next trip, Don said, "I will be with you in spirit." On Veterans Day ... and every day ... Don is with us in spirit. When you think of veterans, remember Don ... and other veterans like him, who are with us only for a little while longer. Please whisper a word of thanks to him, in spirit. Here, we share a letter sent by Don, for us all to think about on Veterans Day ... and every day ...:

"I had gone into 7th grade classes to talk about my trip. As I stood in the hallway, a 7th grade student came up to me and said he had something for me. I was his guidance counselor when he was in 6th grade. He was a very shy young man. He looked at me and said, 'I wrote a poem about you, Mr. Lonsway.' I took the folded piece of paper from him and asked him if it was okay for me to read it. I opened the paper and as I read the poem my eyes filled with tears. I told Josh that it was hard for me to express how much it meant to me. I reached out and gave him a big hug and thanked him once again. It is about my trip through the eyes of a 12-year-old boy. I continue to be moved every time I read it. Peace, Don."

Mr. Lonsway

He should go back to Vietnam

Helpful

A man

To Vietnam

Going to get rid of fear

Helping many schools around there

Helpful

Helping

People there too

Here he used to help us

Always he's going to be here

Peaceful

Donald Lonsway

January 10, 1942 - October 23, 2011

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T11:28:00.003-07:00

Memorial Day remembers and honors those who have died in our nation's service; particularly from battle or war wounds. Those who say, "Happy Memorial Day," do not understand this solemn time. Most Americans confuse Memorial Day as a time for celebration, fun, bar-b-que's, and huge sale events.

Before you bite into that burger, say a prayer of thanks to those who made the ultimate sacrifice so you can enjoy what you are about to partake. If you shop the sales, remember that these possessions and services are courtesy of our military dead.

Please think of those who died, veterans who lost their buddies, and families who lost their loved ones, before you utter, "Happy Memorial Day!" It is not a day of happiness, but of remembrance and honoring. Perhaps it is best to say "Blessed Memorial Day!"

Today, we turn our thoughts and activities to reflect all those who died in the line of service. We also keep surviving families close to our hearts; their sacrifice continues on a different battlefield. As we go about our day today, please be mindful that this is a day for the dead. Envision in your minds-eye spending the day in a cemetery where the heroes we honor on Memorial Day have been laid to rest.

Day Of Peace

2010-11-11T16:23:00.001-07:00

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, in 1918, the world celebrated peace. That moment commemorated an end to "The Great War" which took the lives of nearly a generation of men (as well as many civilians). The day would begin the recognition of World War I veterans.

Soldier -- Then

Over the years November 11th would evolve to paying tribute to veterans from all combat eras. Today, Veterans Day is set aside to thank and honor all--living and dead--who served honorably in the military - in wartime or peacetime. Veterans are men and women who served in the military (U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard) in times of war or peace.

Veterans have served our Nation, with intention and readiness to give all if called to do so. Every Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, and Coast Guardsman, no matter their job, has earned our lasting gratitude. They have shouldered America’s National Security responsibilities, while the rest us enjoy our freedom and way of life. Veterans Day is especially sensitive to living veterans who served during conflict and those who retire after a lengthy service.

Veteran -- Now

Veterans Day is observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. Veterans Day can be a misunderstood holiday and even commonly misprinted as Veteran's Day or Veterans' Day in calendars and advertisements. Veterans Day and Memorial Day are often confused. Memorial Day is set aside to honor those who died in the line of service. The spirit of Veterans Day is meant to express appreciation and recognition of sacrifice.

They were soldiers years ago; today they are veterans. Our veterans no longer "live to fight another day;” on this Veterans Day we wish them to "live to enjoy another day of life."

Veterans Day began as a day of peace; honoring World War I veterans who made that possible. 92 years later, we continue to appreciate veterans who make our freedoms possible. Every November 11th, we renew our pledge to never take our veteran's service for granted. It is important to say this while they are still with us: "Thank you for your service."

TOP Dog

2010-10-06T15:44:00.000-07:00

Wanted: Loving owner for German Shepherd puppy. Gets along well with all pets & children; Is house-trained, calm & submissive and never needs to be told "no." Does not shed. Please click here to be lucky enough to become this dog's best friend and help out a great cause--TOP (Tours Of Peace) Vietnam Veterans.

Child Casualty of War

2010-09-27T13:49:00.001-07:00

Meet Gary Miracle, one of the many poignant Tours Of Peace stories. We Remember Gary and invite you to visit names of others, all of whom were once children with dreams; each would lose their life in Vietnam and leave behind personal effects which have been recovered by Tours Of Peace. Gary's name is among TOP's latest list of heroes "We Remember" web page. Memorial Day comes once a year, however, TOP memorializes our fallen youth 365 days a year at:

http://www.topvietnamveterans.org/special-events.html

We invite you to visit We Remember and think of Gary Miracle--the face of over 58,000 Americans lost in Vietnam.

Fall Newsletter Debut

2010-09-13T15:38:00.008-07:00

You are invited to the special debut of the TOP (Tours Of Peace) Vietnam Veterans Fall 2010 Newsletter, which includes:

Breaking news: A powerful family story about two cousins—One, a commanding General’s daughter; the other, a daughter who lost her father in Vietnam. Both family members returned together with TOP for “A Life Changing Experience.” Get up close and personal with what it is like to go back with us on a Tour Of Peace and learn how you can have the experience too.

Drawing nearer to Veterans Day: Read about a special U.S. Vietnam veteran who served with dreams of becoming an American citizen. Also, TOP remembers one of our late-Vietnam veterans.

Supporters can witness their TOP gifts making a difference: See a progress update on an infant orphan; The Vietnam acclaimed “TOP Scholarship” continues long term solutions for challenged children.

Find where to go for the latest updates on people and news featured in previous TOP newsletters.

Instruction on discovering Vietnam soldiers you may know who are possibly listed in our recently updated 51-page Personal Effects database. Also, “listen” to what veterans say about their personal effects “homecomings.”

There is more. TOP’s (Tours Of Peace) Fall 2010 Newsletter can be accessed and printed from the Tours Of Peace web site (please click the link below, or cut and paste it to your browser’s "address" prompt to go there):

http://www.topvietnamveterans.org/newsletters/2010-Fall.pdf

Please enjoy our Fall Newsletter. Thank you for your support. We are grateful for our friends of TOP, who offer hope to those who benefit from our programs. By helping others, we help ourselves.

Never Forgotten--Update From 1999

2010-08-18T15:47:00.008-07:00

Flashback to 1999: TOP returned the clothing personal effect belonging to killed-in-action soldier, Marine Captain Willard Dale Marshall's surviving family. The item had been given to TOP by Captain Marshall's former Vietnamese interpreter, Mr. Le Sinh, who was with him at the time of death. The original 1999 story with photograph may be found at: http://topvietnamveterans.org/p-pe.html.

Recent Update: We thank Steve Lovejoy, who relayed about a recent visit with Mr. Le Sinh. Mr. Sinh, provided additional information to his TOP 1999 account surrounding the death of Captain Marshall and their special friendship.

Mr. Sinh elaborated to say that a friendship bond formed after Captain Marshall saved Sinh's life: During one conflict, Captain Marshall knocked him down, as shots were fired--one of which creased the top of Sinh's head. Mr. Sinh still bears the scar, which he revealed. According to Le Sinh, Marshall had prevented him from being shot and that event drew him very close to the Marine Captain.

When Captain Marshall was fatally injured, Sinh held his friend in his arms as he died. Another detail, not previously mentioned, was that Mr. Sinh recounted Marshall opened his eyes wide and looked into his eyes and said "Sinh, help me." Mr. Sinh said tearfully that he cried because he could not save his good friend, who had once saved his life.

Also, Mr. Sinh asked the military if Captain Marshall’s poncho would be given to him, as a remembrance; they agreed. Le Sinh placed the poncho in a sand bag, kept it for many years and would eventually turn it over to TOP for its ultimately successful return to the Marshall family (along with the sandbag).

Mr. Sinh said that every night he dreamed of Marshall opening his eyes wide and looking at him and saying "Sinh, help me." Upon return of the poncho to Marshall's widow & son, it gave him peace and Sinh no longer dreamed of Marshall. As was the case in 1999, 11 years later in 2010, Mr. Sinh still continues to remember his good friend and think of him every day.

Poignantly, Mr. Sinh has a photocopy of a rubbing of Marshall's name from the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington DC. He called Marshall his “brother.”

Are you, or someone you know, on this list?

2010-07-19T15:21:00.017-07:00

You may know someone on our Personal Effects list. This list contains names of Vietnam soldier's, who for many varied reasons, left behind personal effects which have been recovered and brought back by TOP (Tours Of Peace) Vietnam Veterans.

Ardon William Carter -- Died In Vietnam, 1966; TOP Returned Effect to Family

Most Personal Effects are dog tags, but also include identifiable pay-cards, clothing, ribbons & medals.

Unclaimed Navy Commendation & Good Conduct Medals Belonging to Frankie E. Smith, USMC

The TOP Personal Effects Program began in 1998. Many of our recovered effects have been returned to both veterans and surviving families, including effects belonging to soldiers whose names are on the Vietnam Memorial Wall. However, there remain effects that have yet to be claimed by veterans and surviving families. We also have "cold cases" where people and families cannot be found--our research and return efforts have come up with a dead end. Sadly, some of our "KIA" (Killed-In-Action) soldiers continue to be stored in our TOP Vault, awaiting someone to help us find the nearest surviving relatives, who will receive these treasures.

"Returned to Veteran" listed next to Brad Varney's name on our Personal Effects List

The return of a personal effects acknowledges the service and sacrifice of our soldiers and their families. Each return contributes to healing & closure many still need, related to the Vietnam War.


(Information Blurred to Protect Identity) Veteran proudly framed his recovered dog tag, TOP letter that accompanied it; along with his picture from that era

TOP invites you to help this cause by taking time to go through our list. We understand there are many names on the database; as we have retrieved many personal effects and dog tags since 1998. However, one of these names may be a buddy you served with, friend, neighbor, relative, co-worker or someone you know of in your community. . . or, if you served in Vietnam, perhaps your name is on the list!

Numerous tags have been returned after someone accidentally discovered a familiar name while surfing the Internet on the TOP web site.

Please click here to access a list of names, which includes last-first-middle names, branch of service and status of each personal effect or dog tag:

http://www.topvietnamveterans.org/dog-tags/Tags.pdf

Please also periodically re-check the list, as it changes to reflect personal effects status and recent additions & finds.

We thank all those who help TOP (Tours Of Peace) Vietnam Veterans do this worthy detective work. We hope someone you know will benefit from your efforts to scrutinize the list.

Giving A Gift Of An All-Expense Paid Tour Of Peace

2010-07-14T16:23:00.003-07:00

TOP (Tours Of Peace) Vietnam Veterans often receives inquiries from loving friends and families who wish to offer the generous gesture of an all-expense paid Tour Of Peace in Vietnam.

The gift of a Tour Of Peace can lead to a wonderful fulfilling trip experience for both those who give and receive. Trips may be offered by family or friends as gifts upon condition that the trip recipient successfully completes the application process. (TOP cannot guarantee trip participation until the completion of the application process.) There has been occasion when a family member who gave the gift of a trip ended up coming along too.

Trip gifts usually cover all airfare, hotels, most meals and domestic Vietnam travel.

The pre-trip (application) process is designed to be a part of the trip experience. The Tour Of Peace experience incorporates emotional, group and humanitarian elements, in addition to returning to spots of personal meaning. The trip emphasizes emotional & physical safety. It is for all these reasons that we developed an application (or pre-trip) process designed to enlighten, inform, answer all questions, give applicants a chance to personally have a telephone visit with TOP and help prospective participants, and TOP, determine if the trip is for them; as well as select a safe group of travelers who can get along, support each other and provide a quality trip for all of us.

The application process is as important for the applicant, as it is for TOP. The process assists gift recipient applicants in understanding all about a Tour Of Peace and helps in making a determination and commitment for the experience.

When families and friends offer this generous opportunity, it is best done gently and sensitively; realizing that not all Vietnam veterans are ready to return to Vietnam. As well, the unique aspects of a Tour Of Peace program might be a better fit for some than others.

During the application process, TOP will provide direction to the applicant for an initial deposit to be made (which friends or family may submit on behalf of the gift recipient). Upon successful application acceptance, benefactors may then make payment for the remaining trip expenses.

Ideally, it is recommended that the application process be completed 6 months prior to a Tour Of Peace.

On behalf of trip gift recipients, TOP expresses deep gratitude to those who make these thoughtful gestures. The gifts of a Tour Of Peace are a loving way to acknowledge the service of Vietnam veterans, as well as the sacrifices families make.

2010-05-31T16:35:00.000-07:00

Most Misunderstood Day of the Year

Memorial Day remembers and honors those who have died in our nation's service; particularly from battle or war wounds.

While those who died are also remembered on Veterans Day, Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military - in wartime or peacetime. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served - not only those who died - have sacrificed and done their duty.

The wearing of poppies in honor of America's war dead is traditionally done on Memorial Day.

Those who say, "Happy Memorial Day," do not understand this solemn time. Most Americans confuse Memorial Day as a time for celebration, fun, bar-b-que's, and huge sale events.

Before you bite into that burger, say a prayer of thanks to those who made the ultimate sacrifice so you can enjoy what you are about to partake. If you shop the sales, remember that these possessions and services are courtesy of our military dead.

Please think of those who died, veterans who lost their buddies, and families who lost their loved ones, before you utter, "Happy Memorial Day!" It is not a day of happiness, but of remembrance and honoring. Perhaps it is best to say "Blessed Memorial Day!"

Today, we turn our thoughts and activities to reflect all those who died in the line of service. We also keep in our hearts surviving families who, although they did not fight in the wars, fought on a different battlefield. As well, please remember those lost on 9/11; additionally, others who have given their lives protecting us in the line of duty (police, fire and paramedics). As we go about our day today, please be mindful that this is a day for the dead. Envision in your minds-eye spending the day in a cemetery where the heroes we honor on Memorial Day have been laid to rest.

Do I need the Internet for a TOP Trip?

2010-05-11T12:02:00.005-07:00

The following is a frequently asked question about applicants who do not use the Internet:

Prospective Applicant's Question: I am not exactly technologically involved in anyway. Basically, I do not have a computer, let alone know how to use one or email. So, my questions is - how is the trip handled when one doesn't use the Internet? Do you call by telephone and send information through regular U.S. Mail?

TOP's Answer and Policy: We have had technologically challenged participants who completed the TOP trip experience; some with the help of friends & family who offered loving, patient instruction on the use of Internet elements related to the TOP process. Most do come out of the TOP experience with a greater knowledge and appreciation of the Internet and continue to utilize it after their trips. Mastering e-mail, PDF files and browsing can be a positive side effect to a Tour Of Peace.

Toward the completion of the application process, TOP & applicants visit on the telephone related to issues that surface during the application for both parties--applicant & TOP. As well, each accompanying family member applicants all have the benefit of a one-on-one TOP chat. This application-related post-trip phone call is usually our only voice communication prior to the trip; aside from making airline arrangements with our TOP travel agent.

The process is Internet driven and why we require applicants acknowledge that they have dependable internet access in the General Application. The post-trip and application process contains volumes of information & direction presented in a timely way via the Internet. Because the TOP trip involves groups of people, disseminating information to all group members in the same manner is important--direction, answers to many questions, handbooks and numerous e-mails (itineraries, humanitarian project assignments, etc.) specifically related to a trip can only be done on the Internet and is administered in the same way to each applicant/participant.

Importantly, communications will eventually occur daily as we near the trip date. As well, because of the volume of information sent to the group, it is important that each group receives the information in a timely way, which is only possible via the internet.

Additionally, each selected group is introduced to each other via e-mail and they get to know each other with this form of communication. Also, e-mail & the internet is the preferred & least expensive way that participants communicate with friends and loved ones back home, when in Vietnam. Many participants develop Vietnamese friendships and the Internet is the primary way to communicate back with them, upon return from a TOP trip. Modern day Vietnam is Internet savvy and common.

The use of the Internet allows applicants & participants to print copies of communications and re-print them when necessary or when hard copies are misplaced. E-mails and other Internet communications can easily be retrieved and referred to when needed.

Perhaps someone can assist you in establishing an e-mail account and coach you on understanding how it works; help you learn a basic understanding of browsing the Internet, i.e., able to visit the TOP web site online; and, understand how to open ".PDF" files in Adobe Reader (a free download, or already available on most computers--we will ultimately provide numerous PDF files to read). The application process does offer some basic instruction; albeit, it is limited.

The Tour Of Peace is a working trip and we suppose this may be some of the administrative "work" that adds to a fulfilling experience in the end. The information and interaction we provide over the internet is part of what makes a Tour Of Peace stand out above other standard Vietnam trips. You will all finish your trip with a wealth of information, thanks to the TOP Internet process. We hope you can embrace this aspect of the TOP trip as a learning opportunity and in the long run it can be a good thing.

Anatomy of TOP's Leprosy Village Projects

2010-04-15T15:56:00.070-07:00

What humanity fears most is the unknown. Although leprosy (Hansen's Disease) is a well-known, feared disease, the world knows little about. The dreaded visual symptoms of leprosy, have prompted many who fear what they do not know, to ostracize victims from their families and communities for centuries . . . even to this day.

TOP (Tours Of Peace) Vietnam Veterans targets humanitarian projects which receive little or no support from the outside. Our leprosy village projects examples this philosophy.

Leprosy villagers deeply appreciate our efforts. We may sometimes be the only help they get. Our demonstration of caring is the best commodity we have to offer. TOP is the "somebody out there who cares."

The leprosy village is one of our larger undertakings. They can be urban or rural projects. Climates and environments sometimes present challenges. Some villages we revisit.

(Above, Left--Active leprosy; Right--Bandage distribution)

TOP always carries a supply of special hand-sewn leprosy bandages. Additionally, we often have some basic medical supplies to present to the village.

A challenge for the team can often be where to put the goods, and how to distribute them, once we are there.The environment and space can sometimes be difficult.It may be wet and muddy, and difficult to establish distribution stations. Sometimes available space is cramped.

Locations may sometimes be hard to get too. Once, our bus got stuck in the mud, and leprosy villagers and TOP participants jointly pushed it out (not an easy task--we almost ended up staying overnight in the village). That night we returned with muddy faces, and tired bodies--but it was fun! It felt good to see and be a part of Vietnamese & Americans working hard at something together. They helped us that day, and we helped them too. What a great memory and experience!

We often hand-c arry items a distance. Most everyone lends two hands & legs carting things to where they need to go. Once there, and the best spot for distribution is decided, items are stacked in stations, near each other. Villagers are notified in advance of our projects. Each villager has a family representative who is issued a voucher to be exchanged for TOP necessities. Villagers line up; then, after a voucher is surrendered, each respective villager goes down the line, one station at a time, and we hand them their items. TOP participants man all the stations. Many leprosy victims are elderly, fragile, and missing appendages. It is difficult for them to carry everything we give them. Some villagers will help each other. We often lend a hand too.

Before and after each project, TOP spends quality one-on-one time with villagers and children. Our greatest commodity comes from our hearts.

The leprosy village projects are very fulfilling for all who actively participate, as well as our supporters who contribute financial gifts, as well as bandages. We treasure our work and will share stories for years to come.

(Right--Family representatives with pre-issued vouchers to exchange for TOP necessities)

The icing on the cake with all projects are the leprosy bandages that come to us unsolicited from all over the world. Here is a random sampling of the many who have regularly sent bandages:

Susan A. Belanger, Gansevoort, NY

Embroidery Guild of America--Thread Artist Chapter, Bozeman, MT

Daytime Service Club, Renton, WA

The Larson Family, Paulden, AZ

Mary Bowen, Fridley, MN

P. Edwards, Denver, CO

Mrs. Lois Jones, Kenosa, WI

James W. & Virginia Young, New Auburn WI

Su Woolley, Hawthorne, CA

Judy Yant, Bel Air, MD

Sampson/Baisdon, Albuquerque, NM

Rev. Tyler Downing, First Presbyterian Church, Dalton, Georgia

Dr. & Mrs. John R. Fanchi, Arlington, TX

Bernice Murphy, Plymouth, IN

Sharon McBride, Hereford, AZ

Jundt/Mickle, Tempe, AZ

Catherine Danzilio, Albuqerque, NM

Nina Jarvice (Relief Society), Franktown, VA

Connie Imler, Jamesville, VA

Fridley High School Key Club and the Columbia Heights/Fridley Kiwanis Club, Fridley MN

Georgie Block, Fontana, CA

...The list goes on and TOP appreciates all our bandage makers.

(Below--TOP package sent to each trip participant; which includes bandages; TOP gear and other items to bring with them to Vietnam).

Finally and importantly, our leprosy projects are possible because of financial gifts made by TOP humanitarian supporters. We are grateful to our supporters and invite you to join this great cause. Please support our Leprosy Project with a financial gift to our Humanitarian Program.

Education Program Trip Participants

2010-04-14T13:03:00.016-07:00

TOP (Tours Of Peace) Vietnam Veterans often receives requests to accompany us on trips from those who do not qualify as Veterans or Family.

Because of the highly personal nature of what is often an emotionally charged TOP trip, we do not allow observers or individuals who cannot commit fully to, and participate for, the duration of a trip and its daily working itinerary. All those who travel with us must qualify under at least one of our foundation's programs, and complete the application process for trip acceptance consideration.

There are three types of participants who may qualify for a TOP (Tour Of Peace) trip: Vietnam veterans, their families, and Education Program participants. Our trips are small and intimate; trip slots are limited. Group selection and trip slot availability priorities are given to Vietnam veteran and families.

The majority of trips do not allot for an Education Program participant. Additionally, when there is an Education participant on a trip, it is usually only one person. The reason for inclusion of an Education Program participant is based on TOP receiving a strong Education trip applicant, who presents a compelling case for traveling with us; commitment to full participation on the trip; and a significant Education Program-related purpose that can be communicated to a large public audience.

When possible, we select Education Program participants (journalists, broadcasters, photographers and authors) who also qualify as Vietnam veterans or family. We have had Veterans and Family participants who were in the fields of journalism, professional photography and writing. It should also be noted that many of our veteran & family participant's trips are written about and featured on television. Therefore, the Education Program presence is often with us without going outside the Veterans & Family Programs.

Consequently, Education Program applicants should supplement their application with a strong justification of how their participation furthers the goals and mission of our Education Program. Trip applicants, who are not veterans or family, must qualify with good reason as an Education Program participant.

It is also conceivable that there may be multiple Education Program applicants competing for a single trip slot. Therefore, an Educational applicant's supplementary reasons for TOP trip consideration can be critical and competitive. Articulate and compelling supplementary material is considered indicative of the applicant's abilities to communicate to the public, and thereby well-written supplements can be supportive. Skimpy, poorly written and communicated supplements may be considered predictive of the Education applicant's qualifications and professionalism.

Exa mples of accepted Education Program participants have been: A television broadcaster (the result of his participation were Emmy winning documentaries and numerous news stories related to the trip). A European journalist whose expenses were paid for by a German corporation who wanted her to experience the TOP trip and write about it. She subsequently devoted a chapter on TOP in a widely used book, published articles about TOP in highly published magazines, and wrote about her experience in the Germany's #1 newspaper; as well as the Internet.

Good Education candidates are likely those who can address issues related to the Education Program with large groups of people and audiences. Conversely, those who apply for their own individual educational benefit (I.e., a student), to supplement degree requirements, term papers, or for a small company newsletter, are unlikely considered. The potential to reach out to the public, in popular venues, and sometimes in new ways, speaks strongly for consideration, acceptance and participation. As well, a passion for what TOP does and additional emotional & personal reasons (related to the TOP mission) can be helpful, I.e., applicants with close family members who have fought in other wars.

All Education applicants are expected to fully participate, along with fellow Veteran and Family participants. This way, group trust is built; all participants feel safe to be open and supportive among each other. Importantly, everyone (including Education Program participants) benefits on a personal level from such an experience. TOP believes that one cannot truly understand & report the trip experience without participation.

Part of the TOP trip experience consists of a group support component where all participants support each other and receive support as well. Education Program participants are expected to equally contribute to this emotional aspect.

Education Participants do their writing, journalism, photography and articles on free time, and fully participate during the working itinerary. This is an important consideration for those who are close to their cameras, and in fields that require photography. On occasion, TOP has video-taped and photographed on behalf of the Education Participant, using the participant's professional equipment, in order that they fully participate.

Education Program participants are ineligible for TOP financial assistance.

Finally, TOP has a policy of confidentiality—what is shared between the group, stays within the group. When a trip member, or Education Participant, wants to write or share with other individuals, or the public, about stories or personal situations, permission must first be obtained by any and all people involved, cited or talked about. Education participants should be prepared for the possibility of a trip member's wishes to remain private about their trip experience and exclusion from publicity. Those wishes are always honored and respected.

Please support the Education Program

We Are All Brothers

2010-04-12T14:05:00.036-07:00

Many Vietnam veterans would love to revisit Vietnam. As our Vietnam veterans grow older, with health issues more prevalent, dreams of returning to Vietnam begin to slip away from the grasp of some. We also understand that there are veterans and family who have no desire to return to Vietnam, but are curious. Consequently, there are events where Tours Of Peace (TOP) Vietnam Veterans brings Vietnam to community and veteran events--part of our Educational Program. At these gatherings, we often are asked to speak to attendees; as well as display pictures, articles and information about TOP, Vietnam as it is today and issues within the ex-military community. Such was the case, recently at the "Gathering of American Indian Veterans" in northern Arizona--where TOP was honored to deliver the keynote address. Afterward, Native Americans filed by our display table and shared many stories with TOP.

The gathering was blessed with beautiful weather in Hopi country; complimented by warm and joyful Hopi hospitality. The ceremony began with Miss Hopi singing a beautiful a-cappella rendition of "The Star Spangle Banner."

Address "Key Notes":

The effects of war and PTSD do not discriminate. "We are all brothers." This quote originally was uttered by ex-Vietnamese military we encountered who fought with and against Americans: Today, old friends & foe seem to share a common DNA. Many Native Americans from the World War II conflict, Korean War, Vietnam, Desert Storm and Iraq Wars, present at the gathering, agreed that no culture, rank or military job is immune from the war experience. This is part of the essence of TOP's Veterans Program.

"Although we did not fight in Vietnam, we fought on a different battlefield." -- Wife of Vietnam veteran who traveled on a Tour Of Peace. Our keynote address recognized the sacrifice family members make; yet receive few accolades and no medals for their "service." TOP recognizes the family through our Family Program. A mother of a son who had just returned from Iraq could be seen softly shedding tears in the audience.

We shared real-life stories that all-too-many veterans & family relate to: "That day, before TOP called about finding my dog tag, I was preparing to kill myself; having lost both legs in Vietnam, I felt hopeless...Now I am going to use my dog tag as a means to open up a dialogue and establish a relationship with my son." Through our Personal Effects Program, TOP was instrumental in saving the life of a disabled Vietnam veteran contemplating suicide. (We would later hear from his son who tried to be like his father and served as a Marine in Iraq.)

TOP Vietnam Veterans had just returned from trips to ethnic tribal areas of northwest Vietnam and conducting humanitarian work in among tribal regions of the Central Highlands. The Humanitarian Program is a key component on our Tours Of Peace. In the keynote address, parallels between Native American & Vietnamese tribes were made.

The address ended by emphasizing the veteran brotherhood that exists between us all. Ultimately, veterans & families share responsibility to look after each other--especially those suffering from trauma--and unified, follow a path for peace, healing & closure. "By helping others, we help ourselves." --TOP motto.

Later, after the speech, an Apache Vietnam veteran confided, "You were talking to me...that is me, you spoke of." He had related deeply to the speech message and we had connected.

One by one, warriors from different eras filed by to open up and share with us issues close to their hearts and difficult to talk about:

We spoke with a World War II 85-year-old Native American who had landed on the beach at Normandy. Korean Veterans talked about how hard that war was; of course, lots of Vietnam Veterans had much to say. Afghanistan and Iraq veterans were also there and notably more silent than veterans of previous wars. "I didn't have it as bad as Vietnam soldiers," said a former Marine who served in Iraq. (It is a common phenomenon of soldiers to minimize their combat experience this way). However, we reassured the Iraq veteran that his service was of great significance and acknowledged & recognized the Iraq veteran's service; paying tribute to his contribution.

During the function, as we talked, Native Americans entertained with modern Native American music.

One Hopi veteran was conflicted: "We come from a peaceful culture which teaches against harming or taking a life; It is a struggle to serve in war and challenging to reconcile, based on our beliefs." Nonetheless, Native American veterans are very patriotic and loyal to their former branches of service.

Later, that afternoon, the "Gathering of American Indian Veterans" came to a close. Display gear was packed and "goodbyes" were said to newly made friends. Driving away from this peaceful place for home, the keynote theme, "We are all brothers" still resonated within ... as some of our brother & sister veterans & family could be seen leaving on foot to unknown locations in nearby hills & mesas nearby in quiet and peaceful retrospect.

Please help support the TOP Education Program

If You Find a Vietnam-era Dog Tag

2009-12-11T10:10:00.001-07:00

TOP often receives inquiries from tourists, veterans and foreigners who visit Vietnam and come upon personal effects and dog tags. Many do not know what to do with them; most want to return them to veterans or family and ask for our help.

We appreciate these Good Samaritans who rescue these dog tags in Vietnam. TOP's policy and resources do not allow us to act as an intermediary for tag returns outside the TOP organization; we encourage them to donate the tags to TOP so we can integrate them into the process which we have developed over many years and steadfastly work to reunite them with their owners.

Additionally, many outside the TOP organization come upon tags of an unknown era--not in Vietnam. The majority of such finds are sometimes discovered in yard sales, spring cleaning, and likely not Vietnam related. In these cases, TOP's Personal Effects mission is solely for Vietnam-era tags. In the event someone may throw a tag or effect away, we invite them to donate such non-Vietnam-era effects to our military collection for public displays. TOP is aware of individuals who sell such effects & memorabilia on eBay; however, it is important to note that TOP will never sell these treasures. Non-Vietnam-era effects not used for TOP's public display, may sometimes be donated to other military (sometimes traveling) museums (not-for-profit).

Please visit the TOP website Personal Effects List and witness over 1,900 personal effects (mostly dog tags) that we are actively working to reunite with living veterans or the surviving families of veterans who were either killed in action or may have survived the war but have subsequently died.

Tours Of Peace (TOP) Vietnam Veterans is a nonprofit organization founded in 1998 by a Vietnam veteran Marine. Our mission provides veterans, their families, and surviving family members, with opportunities for healing from the Vietnam War.

TOP recognizes the importance of these dog tags to the veterans and families and strives to keep them from becoming just another tourist souvenir trinket. We appreciate the fact that you purchased these tags and wish to have them rightfully returned to their owners.

The current TOP dog tag inventory has been acquired in several ways, some of which include:

TOP recovers personal effects through contacts who collect them on our behalf. Additionally, purchases of personal effects sold in Vietnam can be made thanks to monetary gifts to TOP; as well, trip members assist with the recovery of effects in Vietnam (when we take veterans and their families to revisit the place where they were stationed and fought).

Donations from Vietnamese who know what we are trying to do and give them to us at no cost.

Donations from Americans and tourists from other countries who recognize their importance and want us to include them in our “reunion process”.

This process includes:

Authentication: TOP painstakingly authenticates each dog tag as legitimate--not counterfeit. We have both Vietnamese war veterans and American Vietnam Veterans go through them and weed out any fakes. We also verify as much information on the tags as possible, i.e., military ID #'s vs. name with the actual military database information, and information about those listed on "the Wall." Furthermore, we verify the place the tag was bought or donated, with the area the veteran or deceased served. (The pictured dog tag here is in its original condition before a careful cleaning revealed the tag data. Although TOP goes to great lengths not to disturb the initial appearance of how the tag was received, the condition of some tags require us to get to the data, in order to return the tag.)

Documentation: We maintain an extensive database of each tag and all information we have relevant to its discovery, condition and eventual resolution. Furthermore each dog tag is listed on our website in the hopes that the veteran or their family may actually “find us”. This does happen and the more returned tags we have the more the word is out and the more “hits” our website receives.

Research: Our research is very extensive and includes a number of website databases. We start first at The Wall, with information gathered at the various memorial websites for soldiers who were Killed In Action. Beyond that, we conduct a number of other searches, military reunion sites, military locator search engines and recently have expanded into genealogical resources with good success in locating the families of veterans.

Contact: We are sensitive to the emotional issues that often come up when a veteran or family is notified of the find. Once we feel we have a “match” the individuals are contacted by mail and given the opportunity to overcome the initial shock prior to them contacting us.

Verification: TOP is extremely careful that personal effects are matched correctly with the rightful recipients. Even once they contact us, we have a verification process to assure that our “match” is exact.

Special Delivery & Presentation: Our presentation to recipients is done respectfully and solemnly. Each dog tag is enclosed in dark velvet box, accompanied by a letter of appreciation and recognition. (Occasionally a TOP representative will make a personal presentation of the personal effect.) This is all done at no cost or expense to those receiving dog tags or personal effects--thanks to those who contribute to TOP and our Personal Effects Program. We do this as a memorial or recognition of gratitude for the service of the person named on the dog tag.

Due to privacy laws, unless the recipients give their permission, we do not report back to those who donate personal effects on the specifics on the recipients, however, we do note in our database & documentation where the tag was recovered and by whom in our files, in the event a recipient would ask to contact the donor. Those who contribute effects are encouraged to monitor the web site for updates on the status of their donated tags.

Should you have Vietnam-era personal effects, you wish to donate to TOP, we invite you to send them to us addressed as follows: TOP Vietnam Veterans, 8000 S. Kolb Road, Suite 43, Tucson, AZ 85756. It is recommended to send them Priority Mail and in a manner the package can be tracked. Please put tracking on them and let us know in advance that they are coming so we can watch for them and report back to you regarding their safe arrival.

To those who rescue these precious items and donate them to TOP, we are deeply grateful. Thank you!

Challenges Of Being A Veteran

2009-11-11T09:51:00.026-07:00

Veterans Day -- Today we honor all who have served honorably in the military -- in wartime or peace. TOP offers a bouquet of thanks for your service, appreciates your contributions and underscores that all who serve have sacrificed and done their duty.

There should also be a "Family Veterans Day." Families make sacrifices, yet receive little recognition. As one TOP widow once appropriately said, "Although we did not fight in Viet Nam, we fought on a different battlefield."

TOP invites you to read Michele McNair's November 6, 2009 blog perspective, "Veteran's Day: Let Us NEVER Forget." Michele's family life has been heavily steeped in the military. As well, Michele participated in one of TOP's Tours Of Peace. Michele's story emphasizes our belief of why family members deserve their recognition too; additionally, she is a great example of TOP Family & Educational Program trip participants.

Friends and supporters of veterans--Veterans Day does not exist without you. We veterans are thankful for your friendship and support.

It is sometimes difficult to separate Veterans Day from Memorial Day; this is underscored with the recent massacre at Ft. Hood. Being a veteran and living with service-related memories can be challenging. These memories may bubble up and prove difficult for veterans on Veterans Day. Nonetheless, it is important that veterans know how appreciated their service is.

Many lost friends and buddies to war. There are veterans who share "survivor's guilt"--having lived through their service experience while others did not. Likewise, many war-era veterans who did not serve in a combat theater feel guilty not doing the job their peers had to do. No matter what a veteran's job was and where they did their duty, we are grateful.

Survivors guilt can be severe--some veterans wished they had died in war with their comrades, rather than be mired in a life of fear, anger, terror, drugs and alcohol from their war. The fate of PTSD, drug & alcohol abuse, as a result of the trauma of war, can be hell. During the Civil War, General William Sherman said simply and accurately, "War is hell." Unfortunately, many veterans and families live this hell daily . . . indefinitely . . . long after service. They brought the war home with them.

Additionally, it is not an uncommon phenomenon for veterans who served in war to diminish their service, saying, "I didn't have it as bad as you guys . . . or, I had it easy compared to most . . ." Sometimes minimizing war involving is a coping mechanism.

As life is not challenging enough for many former servicemen: Sadly, veterans are often stereotyped in the news: For example, occasionally in news stories of crime & violence, the past military service of a suspect becomes part of the story, e.g., ". . . a former Marine," or, ". . . a Vietnam veteran . . ." Identifying crime suspects by military service is discriminatory behavior, no different from racial discrimination or profiling. This Veterans Day might be a good starting point to begin a campaign of enlightenment within and those around you, to become aware of discriminatory behaviors which profile military or ex-military as violent, criminal or uneducated.

Conversely, in this day & age, the public and media have a propensity for elevating public figures who break laws, abuse substances, are involved in violent behaviors and morally corrupt. Some of these stars, musicians, athletes, and reality figures are labeled as "heroes." Unfortunately, their feats and accomplishments have nothing to do with courage and unconditional sacrifice for the good of others. Meanwhile, veterans who fit the old-fashioned definition of "hero"--quietly live difficult lives of humility, lacking recognition for their unconditional sacrifice for the good others.

Today, is a good day to redefine the true meaning of "heroes." Begin with the veterans in your life: Fathers, mothers, sons, daughters . . . relatives . . . veteran friends . . . veteran co-workers . . . the neighbor with a military bumper sticker . . . the person in the mall with a military baseball cap. Fellow veterans, remember to thank the veterans in your life too.

Thank your veterans for their service and sacrifice. Veterans Day is an opportunity to honor living veterans. Memorial Day is an opportunity to honor those who gave their lives in service. Realize the veteran heroes who your life is blessed with.

TOP (Tours Of Peace) Vietnam Veterans is honored to be a non-profit organization for veterans and families. We are proud to be a part of veteran & their family's lives . . . especially on this very special day.

Tour Of Peace From a Participant Perspective

2009-08-19T11:38:00.003-07:00

Introducing a good blog read related to the Tour Of Peace:

The Vietnam Tour: Choosing to Go and How

It is a first-hand account from one of our recent TOP travelers, Michele McNair.

Readers of Michele's blog series will learn that a Tour Of Peace begins long before boarding planes to Vietnam (albeit, perhaps decades ago in a different time). Participants must qualify as either Vietnam veterans, family members and sometimes by meeting goals of our Education Program.

Michele gives an applicant's perspective of the arduous pre-trip process which poses many questions about trip issues, includes a physical examination, interview with a TOP representative and puts the focus where it needs to be.

Participants receive an in-depth handbook, are required to participate, and be responsive to, learning much about themselves, the Vietnam War and Vietnam

before they travel with TOP. This is often done via informative e-mail which requires participants to regularly respond to TOP on the Internet. The TOP program is Internet driven.

Groups are selected based on many factors, including their responsiveness to the process, commitment to our program, emotional & safety considerations; enthusiasm toward helping others, as well as being receptive to receiving help from their fellow trip members. Not all are selected to go. Additionally, the pre-trip process is designed to help applicants decide whether a Tour Of Peace is a good fit for them. Also, because of the limited numbers allowed on the trip, each group selected is carefully scrutinized.

Blog author, Michele, is pictured below on the left, May 2009 Tour Of Peace Zero Hour, Day 1, next to just having met two fellow travelers who are all about to become as family. Many unknowns are about to unfold beyond this "Kodak moment." Please enjoy Michele's account about her pre-trip and trip experience.

Updated Personal Effects List

2009-08-03T16:30:00.000-07:00

Cleaning Dog Tags and Recent Returns

TOP recently returned from our last trip with more personal effects. We have an updated Dog Tag List for your perusal.

Many of these artifacts reflect the harsh environment they have been in these past decades.

TOP's policy is to endeavor to return the effects as they are found. However, this may not always be possible (see our example in this post).

When dog tags are unrecognizable, it is especially important to glean enough data in order to be able to identify the service member and have the information necessary for either surviving family or Vietnam veterans to verify and confirm a match.

The first step, when dealing with tags corroded by rust, dirt and other elements, may be to carefully hand clean the tag with gentle tools. If that does still does not yield data, then we use a sonic cleaner, similar to what professional jewelers use. In severe cases, tags are thoroughly sonically cleaned on both sides, as many times as necessary. The cleaning, yet preserving the integrity of the tag can be time consuming and challenging.

Many tags are so fragile that they are almost paper-thin and can break in two with the slightest pressure. These tags are identified with instructions on handling.

There are some cases where the information and data is unrecognizable, even after the careful & gentle cleaning processes. In these cases, the information on our database may rarely be questionable.

The results though of returning the dog tags are unquestionable! As evidenced by the responses of recipients, such as Vietnam veteran, Samuel Barton, who after receiving his lost dog tag wrote TOP, "Words cannot describe my appreciation of your efforts to bring closure to our

Vietnam

experience,THANK YOU,THANK YOU! Did I say THANK YOU for the return of my lost Tag?!”

Importantly, last month TOP returned the dog tag of KIA Vietnam soldier, Roger Buren Propst, to his namesake, Roger Buren Propst Jr., who said to us afterward, "I just wanted to say thank you for getting my Father's dog tag to me. I cannot tell you how incredible it was to receive that. It is so nice to have a piece of my Dad."

Likewise, in return, we are grateful for the sacrifices of our veterans and surviving family members: Thank you!

Now, we have updated our recent Personal Effects (Dog Tag) list to include our recent finds in Vietnam. Please take time to look it over and try to find the names of loved one's, friends, those you served with . . . perhaps our Vietnam veterans will find their own names at:

http://www.topvietnamveterans.org/dog-tags/Tags-7-17-09.pdf

Good luck and thank you in advance for please helping us to return these lost treasures to those of whom they belong to.

American's Personal Effect Returned to Germany

2009-04-23T16:54:00.043-07:00

Tag "Worth it's weight in gold," travels around the world to family

Berlin, Germany--TOP (Tours Of Peace) Vietnam Veterans has reunited the personal effect of Killed-In-Action soldier Russell Fordham, with family in Berlin, Germany. Son, Michael, received the dog tag on behalf of family. In addition to the dog tag's long journey from Vietnam to Germany via America, the effect has a long, poignant story.

Born in 1933, Russell was a highly decorated soldier, who served 2-tours in Vietnam and received the Bronze Star; he also was awarded medals from service in Germany and Korea.

During Russell's service in Germany, he met his bride-to-be, Christa. The Fordham's lived the life of a military family in America. Sadly, Russell died in Vietnam, September 4, 1969. After the loss of husband & father, Christa and the Fordham children eventually returned to Germany, where they reside to this date.

TOP is grateful to German journalist, Ilka Hahn, in assisting with the final arrangements of the tag's return to family in Berlin. In the past, Ilka traveled & participated with TOP, in Vietnam, as an Education Program participant, and documented TOP's work in several European venues.

Ilka wrote about the Russel Fordham dog tag and Michael Fordham supplemented the story with family heirloom pictures of Russell receiving one of his decorations, and standing next to an American flag for the article.

Ilka's article reflects the German perspective and is translated in English for our blog and web site:

By Ilka Hahn

“The German Mail recently delivered a worthless piece of metal to Michael Fordham in Berlin-Spandau. Still, Fordham did not know whether to laugh or to cry. The reason: This piece of metal is the last memory of his father who died in Vietnam. It is almost 40 years ago that Russell C. Fordham, a multiply decorated SFC, served in Vietnam for the second time. In September 1969, artillery hit a recovery camp where Fordham stayed at that time. He died on the operating table shortly after. Nobody knows if he was still wearing the piece of metal around his neck in that moment or if he had already lost it before.

The Americans call these pieces of metal “Dog tags.” To quickly identify the wounded and dead, the essentials are stamped on them: name, confession, blood group et cetera. For many veterans, however, this piece of metal means more than just an ID in times of war. They keep it for a life time – as a part of themselves. The US-organization “Tours of Peace” (TOP) has now found the dog tag of Russell C. Fordham. TOP helps American veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder: Soldiers who, due to their war experiences, became alcoholics, aggressive or unable to keep up personal relationships. And TOP returns old dog tags, that are still dug out or found in Vietnam, to their owners or family.

When Russell C. Fordham died, his son Michael was just seven years old. Fordham met his German wife Christa in Berlin. He was stationed in Germany for five years. “My mother used to work in an American shopping center called 'PX' in Berlin-Zehlendorf. After three proposals she finally accepted. That was in 1961”, says Michael (46). The family then moved to Columbus, Georgia, and Michael Fordham today still holds an American passport. “My dad taught me how to play baseball and how to calculate. I inherited his technical understanding. Back then I often watched him repair cars.” On the desk in his office he still keeps a photograph of his father.

Two years after Russell’s death, Michael Fordham, his younger sister Susan and his mother moved back to Berlin. At their weekly meetings his today 71-year-old mother regularly tells Michael stories about his father. Also, his five aunts and uncles in the US often talk about how Russell was like. And still: The worthless piece of metal held a surprise for him, after all those years. “I didn’t know that he was a protestant. I always thought that he was a baptist. For me, this tag is like an important piece of a puzzle that was missing”, says the telecommunication engineer. “It was a sad but at the same time wonderful feeling to actually hold it in my hands. I wish it could talk and tell me what happened back then.” But even if this will never happen: “This tag will get a very special place. It is worth its weigh in gold.”

The Box of Peace

2009-01-09T09:48:00.004-07:00

Recently, TOP recovered a personal effect belonging to Congressional Medal of Honor winner, David F. Winder. The return of his dog tag to surviving family resurrected his memory and reminds us of how special and rare true heroes are. Ironically, David Winder's story is about peace; his sacrifice exceptional because of his convictions.

We live in a time when the word "hero" is casually used and associated with anyone above grade. This is also an era where words have the same worth as actions. However, David Winder's incredible bravery, under unusual circumstances, reminds us of the true meaning of who a hero really is. He was a man who spoke with the pure honesty of his actions.

Dictionary.com defines a hero as, "A man of distinguished courage, admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities." Certainly, David lived up to this standard and then some: He was the old-fashion hero that movies should be made of, and books written about.

In America, the highest of award for the bravest heroes is the Congressional Medal of Honor. David's acts of courage epitomizes and is the quintessential example of this award.

(Left, previously unpublished reverse view of David's tag.) We invite you to get to know this exceptional human being; an inspiration, who offers hope for humanity--no matter which side of a war one is on. Understanding what David did, especially given his belief system, enables comprehension of the essence of the Congressional Medal of Honor award.

Here, we have included some of the stories generated by his dog tag's return. Please read all the accounts, as they compliment each other and result in the culmination of an incredible true story. As you read each cited article, you will become closer to David. Each piece, adds to the next; reporters and editors dug deeper with each story, and by the time of posting this blog entry, the combined facts, thoughts, interviews and feelings will leave you experiencing the awe, inspiration and tragedy of a powerful story comprising a real American hero and man of peace.

The dog tag worn by David at the moment of his heroic deeds traveled time; through fate, it fell into TOP's hands, and was returned to the other side of the world under our care. Once the effect was identified as belonging to a great hero, it was respectfully seated in black velvet, contrasted by a white satin backdrop, and placed in a protective white box, in preparation for its final leg escort home to David's family.

The trip team who recovered the tag was first notified of the magnitude of the find. Not long after, the story in the making was announced to the public in TOP's recent Newsletter.

Prior to tag's return, Arizona Daily Star reporter, Carol Ann Alaimo, outlined the "improbable chain of events" that led to "Army hero's dog tag found by a group here."

Vietnam veteran daughter, TOP trip participant and newspaper columnist Shelley Wigglesworth was a member of the team who came upon the tag during the final days of the momentous trip. After the news revelation, she wrote about a powerful highlight of her trip being a part of recovering David's personal effect.

Meanwhile, before accompanying the effect to Philadelphia, the small, simple box cardboard box, seemed to take on a life of its own; inside, was the object of great significance and priceless cargo.

The box that carried this man of peace's tag, has since become known around TOP as the "Peace Box."

The day the tag was returned equaled a Tour Of Peace condensed into several hours. It had all the components of the good TOP does. The ceremony and presentation was covered by the media and detailed afterward in several venues.

Upon arrival at the home of brother, Joseph Winder, the tag was removed from the simple cardboard peace box and escorted inside; so began the moving presentation of David F. Winder’s dog tag. Pictured is Joseph, between Vietnam veteran, TOP participant & supporter, Thomas Brinson, and Jess DeVaney. Laurence Kesterson, son of killed-in-action soldier, Charles Kesterson, took the photo. Larry revisited his father's footsteps in Vietnam with TOP.

Philadelphia Inquirer journalist, Kia Gregory, quietly & reverently, attended the ceremony and later shared with the public more details of this growing story, and how "Vietnam hero brother receives long-lost memento." As well, the photographic gallery from the piece tells more than a thousand words.

"What a Christmas gift!" Joe exclaimed, fighting back exasperated tears. Pictured left, is Joseph's brother's tag in his hand.

Joe indicated that he would eventually wear his brother's tag.

After the ceremony, on the return home, delayed flights gave pause for thought and reflection. While waiting in Denver, the empty box was produced from an overcoat--the box that once held David Winder’s tag brought incredible emotion in the airport. A decision was made to spare the "Peace Box"--it has been kept and preserved.

Checking voicemail, while awaiting boarding the final return leg home to Tucson, we had received a call from Jonathan D. Silver of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Jonathan would add more to David's poignant story in his article, "Dog tag of medic killed in Vietnam returned to his brother."

Upon returning home, with the personal effect safe in family hands, we received a call from David Winder's hometown of Mansfield, Ohio. Larry Phillips, Editor of the Mansfield News Journal, spoke with TOP at great length. Larry had been extensively researching David Winder, having learned about the tag find and return. Amazingly, one of his research finds was that nothing had been published about David F. Winder and his Congressional Medal of Honor award in David's hometown. Larry proclaimed, "In this Sunday's edition, we will 'right a great wrong'." Larry was true to his word: Next Sunday, David's hometown newspaper devoted the front page to David in the beautifully written story, "Hero's tags take long journey home." The article provides additional, previously unpublished pictures, and information not found in previous accounts.

One of the goals of TOP's Personal Effects Program is to ensure we never forget our gentle heroes. In the case of David F. Winder, the mission was accomplished. Perhaps some peace within has been reconciled in the hearts of David's loved ones. Peace is the rainbow that follows good works. While politicians & activists ironically fight over peace, Tours Of Peace Vietnam Veterans quietly sidesteps around that and simply does it.

From time to time, we peek inside the empty box, and marvel at the peace that lies inside. The box also symbolizes our TOP veterans and families who once held emotion inside and kept their War experience tightly within. Our programs offer an opportunity for release, healing & closure--peace within.

All bad things must come to an end: A metal tag that we once associated with war, is now a symbol of peace. The return of this dog tag gave birth to a new life of memories about David; as well, the dog tag once worn in war, is now worn by his brother, in peace.

Meet a Member of the Trip Support Team

2008-11-14T10:24:00.000-07:00

Next Spring, TOP is honored to have retired Lt. Col. Bruce Logan return with us in a significant role as part of the Trip Support Team. Bruce is one of the exceptional people who comprise TOP Vietnam Veterans and influence the trip experience.

"This year I completed my third trip to Vietnam with TOP. It has been my honor to travel with TOP as a participant during 2006 and 2007 along with my wife Elaine and also with my daughter Eliza on the 2007 tour. Elaine and I have also served as the Education Team for TOP for two years."

"We found these trips so fulfilling and rewarding that we are now huge TOP fans and are serving the organization as volunteers by helping Jess. TOP is a philanthropic organization that has deeply touched our hearts and souls."

Over the years, participants have nicknamed the TOP Trip Leader as "Mama Duck," and with increased leadership responsibilities on his last trip Bruce commented, "This year I was particularly privileged when Jess gave me the opportunity of further serving the organization this June as the Deputy Tour Leader . . . affectionately known as 'Deputy Duck.' At the end of our trip, Bruce was awarded his "Mama Duck Wings" at a ceremony on our last night in Vietnam.

"I was gratified to see Jess Devaney, TOP founder and 'Mama Duck' of countless tours in support of veterans, relieved of just some of the onerous tasks of group leadership, able to immerse himself in the experience and enjoy the warmth of the affection of the Vietnamese people, who have over the years become his friends."

Bruce is a remarkable historian on the Vietnam War. "Over the past ten years I have become somewhat of an armchair scholar particularly its complex and sometimes contradictory culture and anthropology. I read everything I can get my hands on about the history, culture, politics, sociology and geography of that country and spend much time pondering the whys and wherefores of our unpopular intervention there those many years ago." Participants who return with us next Spring, are in for a special treat; especially those who appreciate history. "I enjoy doing research about any aspect of Vietnam and have helped Jess from time to time in locating sites of importance to TOP participants." Bruce's enthusiasm in recalling specifics about the Vietnam War, turns participants into fans of history, by trip's end.

Members of our last trip found Bruce's information about Vietnam fascinating, "I found the experience gratifying, in that I was able to contribute to the participant's understanding of the war and Vietnam today. And of course, as has been my experience in all service work, the gifts and rewards for me personally far outweigh those given."

Bruce's beginnings reflect many of those who fought in Vietnam. Before war, he was the "boy next door"--raised in Seattle, WA . . . played high school football . . . drove an old jalopy . . . and at 17 got a tattoo (which is has subsequently removed). He graduated from the University of Nebraska; has a Masters from the University of Wisconsin; and, has done doctoral work at the University of Southern California. As an adult, Bruce has lived in nine states and four countries. In the middle of it all is Vietnam.

Often TOP ventures back to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Bruce's accounts in that region are always enlightening, "As a young army officer I had two one-year tours of duty in Vietnam. During the first tour in 1966 and 67, I was an infantry platoon leader for six months and a battalion liaison officer for the second half of the tour. This was with the 25th Infantry Division which operated out of the sprawling base camp at Cu Chi."

On our next trip we return to Nha Trang, "My second year-long experience in Vietnam was in 1970 and 1971 and was vastly different from my first tour. I was a captain by then and found myself assigned to Headquarters, First Field Force Vietnam in the beachside city of Nha Trang – now a beautiful resort city. Although I lived and worked for most of the year in the city, I served on an inspection team which required travel once a month to the outlying provinces along Vietnam’s central coast and in the central highlands."

Bruce's wife is a Canadian, "After a twenty-five year career, I retired from the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1989, and embarked on a new life with wife Elaine in a bucolic corner of Canada called Salt Spring Island. This island lies in the Strait of Georgia between Vancouver and Victoria in the beautiful province of British Columbia. I worked as a management consultant during my first fifteen years in Canada and had many interesting consulting gigs which took me all over North America. I am now semi-retired and work only a day or two a week – just enough to keep me stimulated." It should be noted though that when Bruce is part of the Trip Support Team he puts in a lot of long hard work days with TOP, in Vietnam.

He symbolizes the ideal TOP Vietnam veteran past-participant role model, "Even though I spent a quarter century in the military, I do not define myself by that experience. I seldom use title or rank, do not drive in and out of military bases in order to be saluted and do not sit around telling war stories. I do however, attend a reunion with the survivors of my 66-67 rifle company each year."

Bruce's past-times include sailing: "I am a certified sailing instructor and spend several weeks each year on the water teaching others how to safely enjoy recreational yachting. Several summers ago I sailed 2,200 nautical miles from Hawaii to Tahiti with seven other people on a 48 foot sailboat."

Last June, Bruce led TOP to Marble Mountain's summit. "Elaine and I love the outdoors and feel that being on foot is the best way to enjoy and appreciate a piece of landscape. We frequently hike in Hawaii where we spend several weeks each year and we have worn out boots in Europe, Washington, California, Utah, Arizona and, of course, here at home."

Bruce is a willing participant in TOP's cooking class, held on all the trips he has accompanied. "Who doesn’t enjoy eating? I like ethnic foods of all varieties and, yes, that includes Vietnamese cuisine. Elaine and I spend much quality time in the kitchen preparing food for ourselves and our guests. Good food is an expression of love."

Bruce looks forward to his TOP trips, "I know that traveling with others who have a connection to our wartime experience in Vietnam will be an enriching experience."

TOP's motto is, "By helping others, we help ourselves." As well, the TOP Trip Support Team, such as Bruce, is given opportunity to personally evolve on these trips. For example, elaborating on this, Bruce added, "Among the very special moments and events that moved me on this tour were:

Growing in spirit as I watched the poignant moment a widow cast her husband's ashes into the waters off China Beach where he had served.

Understanding at a deeper level the affect of my own post war behavior upon my children as I watched a daughter struggle with her feelings in visiting the place which had so severely affected her father some forty years ago.

Learning from participants the true strength of family in the face of loss and grief.

As always the humanitarian projects filled me with gratitude for the blessings of my own life."

Bruce concluded, "Thanks to Jess and all the June 2008 participants for sharing this deeply rich time with me." Likewise, TOP extends our gratitude to Bruce for his compassion and trip contributions. We look forward to his involvement in our forthcoming Spring trip.

Let's Continue to Bring Them Home

2008-10-13T08:58:00.014-07:00

This personal treasure, was likely worn by Roger Dale Cole, over his heart, or laced in his boots on the 12th of November, 1970, when he was shot and killed in Vietnam. Roger was only twenty-one years-old. We can only speculate why the tag was separated from his body and remained in Vietnam until TOP recovered it. Almost three decades later, TOP returned this precious item home to surviving family in Martinsburg, West Virginia. Roger would have been 59 years old today. He is immortalized on "The Wall."

We invite you to visit TOP's Dog Tag List where you will see many other personal effects which have been "Returned to Family" of many other soldiers lost to the War. (Roger's name is also commemorated on our "We Remember" page.)

Please also explore our web site's "TOP in the News" section which includes many TOP Personal Effects stories. For example, reporter Jennifer Caprioli of the Tobyhanna Reporter recently wrote about Vietnam veteran, Jim Sulima's found & returned dog tag, in the article, "Piece of veteran's identity returns from the past."

Personal effects are returned to veterans and surviving families--without charge--as a free TOP service to the recipients. Returns acknowledge service & sacrifice; a symbolic "Thank you" and "Welcome Home" to veterans and families. This cause is all made possible by TOP volunteers and supporters. There are costs associated with Personal Effects returns--together, with your financial gifts, "we bring them home."

A dog tag worn by Killed-In-Action soldier Russell Evans, now rests with his family.

TOP supporters make gifts to "TOP Vietnam Veterans" in Tucson, in order to keep the seemless return of these effects. Together, we continue to bring them home. As well, TOP thanks and recognizes the financial sacrifice of our supporters in their role of making this all happen.

Humor Offers Balance in Tough Times

2008-10-10T08:11:00.047-07:00

Many Vietnam veterans will attest to a dark humor among troups, as a coping mechanism for the trauma of war. Today, TOP sometimes relies on humor in a very serious business.

With a global economic crisis effecting us all, today's post suggests the importance of humor as a stabilizer throughout tough times.

Often, office visitors, supporters and trip participants are pleasantly surprised when we bring humor into the mix. One trip participant labeled it "the F-word"--Fun. When initially introduced to TOP, the veteran stuttered saying the word, "Fun." After two TOP trips, "fun" is easy to say.

Over the years, we have had supporters with the foresight to see the value of including humor. For example, many of you know "Far Side" cartoonist Gary Larson. TOP has amassed a diverse library. Much of the library references the Vietnam War, country and culture. Many books were sent courtesy of the authors and publishers. Some books and articles are from Education Program participants who accompanied TOP on trips. Our collection includes poetry and art inspired by war and its after-effects.

There is a book in our library some may scratch their heads over and ask, "How does this fit in with TOP?" To which we reply, "TOP very much needs what this book suggests." The book is one of Gary Larson's Far Side Gallery series sent as a gift. It is appropriate and needed in our office.

Throughout trips and operations, TOP strives to keep a sense of humor in a serious business. What we do is often very "heavy." We keep office and trip balance with occasional humor. Participants may be surprised to hear jokes, participate in light-hearted trip contests, as well as have some fun (there's that "f-word" again) throughout the trip experience. With the tears also comes laughter.

Occasionally, when the going gets tough, the TOP office picks up Gary Larson's book and takes a break. We thank Gary for his gift of laughter. His occasional dark leanings remind us of our war time, when humor helped us emotionally survive. Without it, the seriousness and heaviness of what we do can be all-consuming.

Sometimes we make fun of ourselves. The logo on the pen I used, during an interview with Arizona Daily Star Reporter Carol Ann Alaimo, brought smiles to her and the newspaper's photographer. The pen was one of many gifted to TOP by Xanax for office use and humanitarian educational projects. (Many TOP supplies and humanitarian goods are given by generous companies.) The ironic connection of the pen brought a dark light to serious subject matter. To help stay anxiety generated in the work we do, TOP reaches for our Xanax pens.

Another reflection of TOP's sense of humor was a charicature drawn by one of TOP's trip Vietnam veterans, Wally Woolfenden. After years of TOP leadership, trip members began calling me "Mama Duck"--likened to the duck mother ensuring all ducklings return home safely. Wally captured my ex-Marine trip leadership essence with his cartoon characture, labeled in Vietnamese "Me Vit Mai," or in English, "Mama Duck." The charicature symbolizes seriousness & fun as needed balance related to the nature of what TOP does. Today's light-hearted flavored post is dedicated to our supporters, whom we recognize that now, more than ever, your TOP monetary gifts are a labor of love. We commend our supporter's wisdom--understanding that financial donations are especially necessary during challenging economic times. TOP and those we help cannot exist on love alone. At a time, when many cut extras from their budgets, we are grateful for our friends who continue to make TOP Vietnam Veterans a budget priority. Thank you for not lumping TOP with budgetary "extras" or extravagance. TOP is sometimes a life-sustaining necessity for those we help. We consider your monetary gifts a sacrifice you make. Please know how grateful TOP is for you, especially now.

Putting a Face to Leprosy

2008-10-07T14:16:00.006-07:00

This ethnic minority tribal lady eagerly invited us into her two-room hut, consisting of a handful of possessions and one bed. She and her three daughters all had leprosy. The picture above, is neither blurred, nor are her eyes the result of a harsh flash. This is the face of leprosy.

Dressed in her finest attire, in anticipation of TOP's village arrival, the appreciative mother enthusiastically motioned us into her tiny abode.

We conversed in Vietnamese; throughout our conversation, she proceeded to teach her tribal tongue, starting with "Hello."

TOP has been providing aid to leprosy villages since the 1990's.

These projects include providing food, clothing and medical necessities. Among the medical supplies are handsewn leprosy bandages. These cotton treasures are designed to be re-used on wounds resulting from the ravages of leprosy. The bandages are a labor of love from volunteers across the globe, who have taken the cause to heart.

We recently received a shipment of nearly 100 leprosy bandages weighing 20-lbs from Staci of Minnesota. It is one of many shipments received from across the globe. Churches, civic organizations, schools and individuals are turning to TOP for placement of leprosy bandages in our projects.

This past year, TOP has felt the effects of some worldwide humanitarian organizations halting their leprosy bandage programs. TOP has been recently beseeched by churches, civic groups and individuals to take bandages originally intended for other organizations. Many leprosy bandages became" orphans" and we are being asked to become their "orphanage." That is the other "face" to this story.

E-mail from a Church: Our church in Viginia had previously been participating in a program through a health organization to knit bandages. They have since discontinued this program. We still have around 50 bandages that have nowhere to go and we're wondering if you would accept these. If you can accept this, please send the shipping address. Thank you, Robin

The numbers of good-hearted leprosy bandage producers is increasing worldwide, while some bandage programs are closing their doors. The increased numbers of bandages we receive requires TOP to ship in advance of our leprosy projects, which comes at a cost. Costs within a nonprofit organization must be offset by the generosity of supporters. The good news is we can support the leprosy bandage cause, as long as we have your help to cover bandage shipment costs.

A Colorado teacher asks TOP via e-mail: My high school Key club is interested in knitting and crochet bandages. Are you still accepting these items for donaion for the leprosy colony?

TOP's response: We can put the bandages we receive to good use; however, monetary gifts are necessary to defray shipping and baggage costs. As long as funds are available for shipment expenses, we can continue our leprosy bandage program without the speed bumps some nonprofit leprosy bandage programs are likely experiencing.

After visiting with the leprosy stricken mother and 3 daughters, I said, "Goodbye." She appeared horrified that we would not return again, and corrected me, "No. Not goodbye. See you later," in Vietnamese.

We thank our volunteers for the steady supply of bandages and hope our supporters can match the incoming numbers of bandages with the financial support necessary to enable bandages to reach their destination.

As well, importantly, there are other life-sustaining necessities leprosy villagers need, that only money can buy. We appreciate our supporters & bandage makers understanding the challenges and expenses associated with getting bandages & necessities from "Point A to Point B." As well, during tough economic times, we also appreciate the challenge of making the monetary donation--to "TOP Vietnam Veterans" at our Tucson, Arizona address--that makes it all happen.

Together--both contributions of bandages and monetary gifts--make the difference in the face of leprosy.

Bandaid For the Heart

2008-10-06T13:04:00.013-07:00

Inside the handwritten envelope were the words, "Welcome home, big brother, from Little Sis."

The letter contained a polished symbolic heart with a bandage over it. Ironically, the medal was made of the same stainless steel our dog tags were issued on (perhaps poignantly & gently suggesting it is time to retire our tags in our hearts).

"It's been a long time comin' . . . Welcome Home."

It was appropriate that this medal come from the "Heartland." The medal was sent by Monica Harvey from Stapleton, Nebraska.

Monica's unusual story began after surviving a freak Veterans Day parade in 2001. Since then, "Little Sis" has felt compelled to perform in Veterans Homes, hospitals, psychiatric wards, biker rallies, rides, reunions, tributes and traveling walls.

Over the years, Vietnam veterans, who have come to know & appreciate Monica, have bestowed her with the nickname "Little Sis."

Her "Bandaid For the Heart" is a tangible part of her cause and support.

Monica's letter ended with the words, "Let them never be forgotten."

Little Sis' medal was reverently placed on a favorite cap, and when worn, a "Welcome Home" can be heard deep within.

To Little Sis, we say with enthusiastic gratitude, "Thank you!" Vietnam veterans will proudly wear the medal you present us. All Vietnam veterans should have a sister like you.

Please know that it is never too late to welcome a Vietnam veteran home.

A Vietnam War Generation Grows Older

2008-08-14T09:29:00.019-07:00

Our generation of Vietnam veterans and families are aging--we are frequently asked about the challenges of a Tour Of Peace, especially for our older participants. The following e-mail inquiry, from a family member of a Vietnam veteran, is a good example of a more often asked question for TOP:

Son of a Vietnam Veteran: My father is 80 yrs old and is a veteran of WW II, Korea and Vietnam. He tells me wants to go back to Vietnam before he dies but I am not sure if he is too old to make the trip. he does have some limitations with walking but is in otherwise good health, he goes to the gym 3 times a week. have you had people of his age go on a trip? Is it possible for me to go with him? Please advise.

TOP's Reply: Thank you for your interest in TOP; importantly, we appreciate your support role with your father. As well, we are grateful for your father's service.

TOP's record age for trip participation was an 80-year old Vietnam veteran widow. Less than a month after her return, she turned 81. Previous to that, the eldest participant was another widow, age 76.

Both ladies had trained and worked hard to get in shape for the trip, losing considerable weight and focusing on physical challenges likely encountered on a TOP (Tour Of Peace). For example, the trip involves walking, and there is no avoiding steep stairs. Therefore, the ladies spent time prior to the trip with lots of walking, aerobic exercise and leg strengthening; and, successful efforts at weight loss. They worked on strength building and lifting, which came in handy for our humanitarian projects and sometimes having to carry their own luggage.

Another example of a trip situation that might be of challenge to our older participants involves instances where each trip member needs to be responsible for maneuvering & managing their individual luggage over distances that may be a couple of blocks, and sometimes taking the bags up a few steps. There will be times where there is no luggage assistance; other TOP travelers and Support Team will have their hands full with their own bags. Consequently, we require our participants to have luggage with wheels, and of course, recommend the kitchen sink be left at home.

Our two elder participants also worked on areas of endurance, with the knowledge that some days and activities are long. As well, the Vietnam heat & humidity was a consideration in their preparation for the trip. The trip was a challenge; however, they both returned healthy and fulfilled. These two strong women were amazing. Of course, their trip success stories, enable us to continue considering applications for the older generation.

It is the responsibility of your father's personal physician to determine physical fitness and safety for the trip; and a decision of whether or not to be allowed to participate. Physicians receive information about the TOP trip, its activities and the environment we work in. The ladies I am exampling in this e-mail were heavily scrutinized by their doctors, received a complete thorough physical examination, and were cleared to go. The doctors communicated to TOP what their limitations were--what they could and could not do.

Ultimately, it is your father who decides, with TOP's acceptance, and physician's approval, whether he should commit to the rigors of our working trip. Your father and his physician know best his capabilities.

Yes, it is possible for you to come with your father, assuming you both qualify. Normally, we encourage family members to come with us. In cases of participants with physical challenges that sometimes require minor additional assistance, TOP asks that a family member come on the trip to help. In addition to fully participating in the trip, and enjoying the experience with each other, the additional family member provides all needed assistance associated with their family member, assures safety, and helps ensure that our itinerary & activities continue to move along as seamlessly as possible for the other group members and the daily time frame.

Applicants requiring caretaking assistance (help not considered minor), which is chronic, or where there are significant medical technology/equipment needs, i.e., oxygen, are likely not good candidates for the trip.

Of course, we expect any accompanying family members to fully participate in the trip. Providing assistance for a family member should not be the reason & focus for their trip. Accompanying a family member, who may occasionally need some minor assistance, should not diminish the trip experience and personal importance of such a trip for the accompanying member.

Beyond this e-mail, many of your questions about the physical demands of our trip are answered throughout the application process. Should you and your father decide to apply for a TOP trip, please download the General Trip Application, available at:

http://www.topvietnamveterans.org/genapp.pdf

Please thank your father for his service and relay a "welcome home" for us.

Wishing you the best in your decision,

TOP

Welcome

2008-08-12T11:40:00.000-07:00

Greetings TOP (Tours Of Peace) Vietnam Veterans blog readers.

TOP has several venues for communicating to supporters, participants, applicants, Vietnam veterans; families, and the public interested in issues and information pertaining to the Vietnam War, Vietnam as it is today, Vietnam veterans and families, as well as our organization. Our web site offers the big picture. TOP newsletters bring everyone up to date. Our Education Program often presents TOP and our mission to the public one-on-one and to groups. As well, e-mails address specific inquiries.

A good blend of “all of the above” is our blog. It adds a softer touch to our web site and newsletters. Our blog attempts to personalize TOP for our readers–share thoughts, issues, answer questions, bring our readers up-to-date in “real time” and offer a way to interact with TOP. It is an extension of the web site, newsletters and our public presentations. In some ways the blog may be considered as our newsletter in real time.

Details that cannot be included on the web site format, or information that is too cumbersome for our newsletters may find its way on the blog.

The blog will continue to maintain TOP’s policy of being non-political and nonreligious. We will not take sides to issues, but present the facts, especially as they relate to TOP Vietnam Veterans, our programs and mission.

The blog is more casual. Whereas, the Web Site is TOP dressed in Suit and tie; the newsletter is our sport jacket; the blog is TOP casual dress. It should allow our readers to get a closer access to TOP and our operations. Perhaps you can also get to know our participants, applicants and audience a little better too.

We invite you to enjoy the blog, and participate with your feelings, feedback and suggestions. We will be monitoring and screening input; however, some of your comments and contributions may be included.

Please also feel free to share the blog with your friends, and those who might benefit from TOP and our programs.

We look forward to sharing and hearing from you.