On 4/7/25, Lou Searles, one of our HBC members and Board member, is being recognized and saluted on ABC 27 News for his service in the Vietnam War from 1963 - 1966. It will be broadcast on each of the airings that day. Lou was Flying Crew Chief responsible for repairing aircraft during the Vietnam War stationed in Nha Trang and Saigon. He also was temporarily assigned for reconnaissance drone recovery in Danang after his plane was shot down during a supply run. Lou also served for the Air National Guard as a Flight Engineer on C121 and C130 aircraft from 1969 -1989.
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Lou recently returned to Vietnam and Cambodia for a Bicycle Tour riding nearly 200 miles while touring familiar locations from 60 years ago. He is incredibly resilient and a positive influence on his cycling friends and community.
Photo on left, February 2025 (Ho Chi Minh City (previously named Saigon)); photo on right 1965 (Nha Trang)
Lou said it was nice to be back to Vietnam after 60 years. Whereas the early stay was to serve in the Vietnam War, this visit was to cycle as part of Vietnam Bike Tour. Thank you for your service, Lou.
