March 31- Surprise Encounter at Nhi Ha

After completing the mission and departing the NVA cemetery at Nhi Ha, Nhung and I had started back to Dong Ha. Then, about midway on our drive, Nhung received a call from the cemetery caretaker. She wanted to inform us that, just after we had left, an organized group had arrived from quite a distance north via bus. And they wanted to meet with me. These folks were sons and daughters of NVA troops killed at Nhi Ha, all of whom are buried at that cemetery. Of course, we turned around and headed back. As we arrived  I was surrounded by 20 men and women, all who had lost their father in battle at Nhi Ha.

 

Pham Hong Thinh Killed in Action May 6, 1968


They scoured over my Nhi Ha photos from May '68. I was tugged here and there as everyone wanted a photo with their father's enemy soldier. What they didn't care for is the 196th Infantry hat on my head. Before each photo, someone would snatch it from me. But, they were a very friendly bunch of folks who had come a long way from the north to visit their father's grave. It was a rare, special moment for all of us. Memorable. Healing.






Comments

  1. AnonymousApril 2, 2025 at 5:07 AM

    Neil, this timing was not a coincidence. God is blessing you, and all those folks visiting the cemetery that day. Grace for healing, for peace. You were brave then, and still brave. So proud of my Cousin! 🩷Suz

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousApril 2, 2025 at 2:06 PM

    Wow! What timing, healing for everyone and so incredibly interesting! PS

    ReplyDelete
  3. AnonymousApril 3, 2025 at 9:20 AM

    wow! Fascinating!! the way you have affected people is ongoing ! ALL GOOD! to have this many people get together and make the effort shows God's love conquers all. Bless you, Neil.

    ReplyDelete
  4. AnonymousApril 3, 2025 at 12:44 PM

    It is great that you had the opportunity to connect up with the group.

    ReplyDelete
  5. AnonymousApril 4, 2025 at 6:10 AM

    Neil, I can only imagine how this experience affected you. Thanks for sharing it and I’m still amazed by your great, thoughtful work. Ray

    ReplyDelete
  6. GmanApril 4, 2025 at 9:22 AM

    This was a great meet up with all the folks. Looks like you were kept busy!

    ReplyDelete

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