VFW Post remembers Operation Allied Force veterans last Friday

“25 years ago today, on March 24th, 1999, NATO launched an air campaign called Operation Allied Force,” Post Commander Richard Lundie welcomed those attending, led the opening prayer and the pledge of allegiance.

“Twenty-five years ago,” Lundie said, “On March 24, 1999, NATO launched an air campaign called operation allied force to halt the humanitarian devastation that was then unfolding in Kosovo. The decision to intervene followed more than a year of fighting within the province and the failure of international efforts to resolve the conflict by diplomatic means.

“NATO announced the suspension of the air campaign on June 10, 1999, once it had concluded a military technical agreement with the federal republic of Yugoslavia.

“NATO casualties were light,” Lundie continued, “And the alliance suffered no fatalities as a result of combat operations. Two American Army helicopter pilots, CWO David Gibbs and Kevin l. Reichert, died when their AH-64 helicopter crashed in the early hours of May 5, 1999. The crash was not due to enemy fire, but two of America’s finest died that day serving their country.

“It is in their honor and in honor of those who served in the Kosovo War that we remember today,” said Lunie. “Our memorial wreath will be laid by Post Life Member Larry Jones.

“Our presence here today is small but heartfelt thank you to the Kosovo veterans who served,” Lundie concluded.

Taps was sounded by Gene Hutto, Past-Post Commander to conclude the ceremony.

The next program hosted by VFW Post 8904 will be Friday, March 29 at 10 a.m., to honor Vietnam Veteran Memorial Day and the 51st anniversary of the last combat troop to leave Vietnam.