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JBSA-Randolph's 560th FTS hosts Freedom Flyer reunion

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  • Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph Public Affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas --  In the years following the Vietnam War, members of the 560th Flying Training Squadron at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph have hosted the pilot requalification program or the final flight for the members of the 4th Allied Prisoner of War Wing returning to the U.S.

"Their first flight with the 560th FTS was designed to duplicate what each returnee's last flight in Southeast Asia should have been like," Maj. Abram Woody, narrator and 560th Flying Training Squadron member, said, during the wreath-laying ceremony March 28 at Washington Circle. "Since May 21, 1973, we have flown 195 former POWs."

Former POWs have travelled to JBSA-Randolph for a Freedom Flyer Reunion for 41 years. The symposium, complete with guest speakers, former POWs, former spouses of POWs and those involved in the repatriation portion was added along with a wreath laying ceremony 17 years ago.

"For American veterans, I think a ceremony like this causes us to remember great selfless Americans, warriors and leaders who gave it all," Col. Gerald Goodfellow, 12th Flying Training Wing commander, said.

The day culminated with a T-38 three-ship flyby and a 21-gun salute.