Vietnam War veteran Frans VandenBroek was invited to speak at the Heroes Hall in Costa Mesa, Southern California on June 27. VandenBroek, one of the few non-pilot soldiers to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross, also holds the Army Air Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and Purple Heart. His speech was part of the “Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam” lecture series at the exhibition hall.
In November 1966, 18-year-old VandenBroek enlisted and arrived in Vietnam in October of the following year. Serving as a door gunner on helicopters, he accumulated over 1,000 flight hours within 15 months, survived three helicopter crashes due to enemy fire and mechanical failures, witnessed two pilots’ sacrifice, and sustained injuries himself before honorably retiring in July 1969.
During his speech, VandenBroek showcased photos taken during his time in Vietnam. He talked about using a Kodak Brownie camera for photography and how those films and slides are now kept in a quiet and dimly lit place for safekeeping.
VandenBroek, of Dutch and Indonesian descent, touched upon his family’s journey to the United States following a turbulent post-World War II Indonesia. He highlighted the challenges of learning English with a heavy accent but eventually adapting and excelling, all while embracing the American dream and opportunities.
After moving from cold Colorado to sunny California, VandenBroek attended Long Beach City College, describing the experience as a disaster that led him to enlist sooner rather than later. His family, having been welcomed by the U.S., instilled a sense of duty and gratitude towards the country that offered them refuge.
Volunteering for service meant being assigned based on military needs, leaving no room for personal choice. VandenBroek noted the lack of autonomy until deciding to extend his service, which provided some control over his military career path.
Upon reporting to the recruitment center in Santa Ana on November 29, 1966, VandenBroek underwent training at boot camp. He reminisced about the diverse group of recruits and the rigorous training that prepared them for deployment to Vietnam.
Assigned to a helicopter unit, VandenBroek recalled his initial exposure to helicopter operations and the unexpected shift to weaponry training. He shared anecdotes of the slow journey to Vietnam aboard a vintage transport ship, eventually landing in Vũng Tàu amidst a contrasting scene of relaxation amidst the turmoil of war.
After experiencing numerous rocket attacks during his time in Vietnam, VandenBroek’s unit faced challenges and dangers, requiring quick responses and constant vigilance. His narration painted a vivid picture of the realities faced by soldiers during the Vietnam War.
The continuation of VandenBroek’s wartime journey in Vietnam, particularly his transfer to the elite 68th Assault Helicopter Company, nicknamed the “Top Tigers,” reflects the enduring resilience and sacrifices made by individuals like him during a tumultuous period in history.