Lance in Iraq

June 27, 2005

Hawaii National Guard Troops Return From Iraq

These guys flew many 278th soldiers into Iraq. Very smooth ride.

Hawaii's first National Guard troops to return from combat duty in Iraq were honored at Hickam Air Force Base Sunday.

Five of the soldiers who returned also served in Vietnam. They said that the difference in community support they are getting now is incredible.

"To have gone through the Vietnam War, where you were hidden, and here where the people are proud of you -- it's somewhat uncomfortable for me. I don't know how to deal with it coming out of the Vietnam era," Kaloi said.

Another Vietnam veteran, 1st Sgt. Sonny Gollero, 57, remembered his return to Honolulu from Vietnam.

"When I got to Honolulu International Airport we were escorted down the side corridors just so we wouldn't run into the protestors, who were on the top shelf," Gollero said.

Must have been the Mike Wallace Fan Club.

Posted by Lance Frizzell at June 27, 2005 09:45 AM