B-52 Dedication revitalizes 'wingman concept'

  • Published
  • By Jennifer Greene
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  The "wingman" concept is still very much alive as described by a veteran who owes his freedom to Operation Linebacker II. This mission flown during the Vietnam War brought about a commradiere that seemed dormant to most. 

"They are the true heroes and I finally get to thank them," said Lt. Col (Ret.) David E. Ford . 

July 24 marked a significant day in Mr. Ford and many other veterans' lives. Team Whiteman dedicated the static B-52 aircraft to Capt. Robert Morris Jr., a Missouri native, and the crew of Ebony-02 which flew during Operation Linebacker II. 

Veterans and civilians alike came from as far away as Connecticut to witness the unveiling of the name plate and to take a front row seat in history. The sky was clear and the flags were waving as the crowd gave a moment to honor those lost followed by a B-52 Stratofortress that flew over Friday afternoon. 

Col. Rickey Rodgers, 509th Bomb Wing Vice Commander, presented the name plate to Capt. Morris's widow and the surviving crew members; 1st Lt. Robert Hudson, Capt. Michael LaBeau, 1st Lt. Duane Vavroch and Tech Sgt. James Cook. Col. (Ret.) William Stocker was on hand to deliver remarks about the sacrifice men made during the Vietnam War. 

"It is humbling to have so many heroes in one place and to witness this amazing web that has been spun over the years. These men exemplify the true meaning of wingman," said Margaret DePalma, 509th Bomb Wing Historian. 

Mr. Ford was released from POW camp as a result of Operation Linebacker II and the crews of Ebony-02 and many others' efforts that December. Thirty seven years after his release, he and many other veterans remain in contact with each other. From birthdays, deaths, surgeries and reunions they remain as close as they were when they were side by side in combat. Mr. Ford described them as relationships that gave him "completeness".

Click here to view the slideshow.