Posted on 08/30/2009 12:39:35 AM PDT by naturalman1975
AUSTRALIA'S last two servicemen missing in action from the Vietnam War have begun their final journey home.
The remains of Flying Officer Michael Herbert and Pilot Officer Robert Carver, both lost in 1970, have been placed aboard a RAAF Hercules transport aircraft for the trip from Hanoi, Vietnam, back to Australia.
Family members and former comrades of the RAAF's 2 Squadron observed the solemn ceremony at Noi Bai Airfield as their caskets were carried aboard the aircraft.
The family members and former servicemen will accompany them on the journey home.
Parliamentary secretary Dr Mike Kelly said the aircraft would fly to RAAF Base Richmond, northwest of Sydney, where they would be ceremonially received by current and former members of 2 Squadron.
"Today, our last remaining Australian Defence Force members from the Vietnam War will return home. After 39 years, Flying Officer Herbert and Pilot Officer Carver's family and friends will finally be able to bring them home to lay them to rest," he said.
(Excerpt) Read more at news.com.au ...
United ... Shane Herbert, brother of flying officer Michael Patrick Herbert, sits next to his brother's coffin
Welcome home Lads and Rest in Peace.
Such touching photos.
Rest in peace on the home sod, mates.
TC
ATTEN,HUT
HAND SALUTE
POST
Vietnam 1968-1969
Welcome Home Mate
Holy Crap!!!
I used to bum rides with some of the Aussie pilots whenever I needed to go to Tan Son Nhut Airfield. In November of ‘70, the ride I thought I had arranged got canceled because the pilot that I’d asked a couple of days before was missing. I wonder if this was him.
Michael Herbert and Robert Carver, thank you for your service.
My prayers are with you.
Jack
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