Ashland County Vietnam Veterans Era Dinner to Feature Kim Phuc as Guest Speaker
Joe Lyons •
February 13, 2025
Ashland County Vietnam Veterans Era Dinner to Feature Kim Phuc as Guest Speaker
ASHLAND, OHIO – The Ashland County Vietnam Veterans Committee has announced that its 6th annual Vietnam Veterans Era Dinner will take place on March 29, 2025, featuring Kim Phuc, known worldwide as the “Napalm Girl” from the iconic Vietnam War photograph, as the keynote speaker. The event will be held at the Ashland Eagles, and tickets are now available for purchase at DeSanto Kellogg Law Office, 432 Center Street, Ashland, Ohio. Seating is limited, and those interested can call (419) 289-1454 for more information.
The Ashland County Vietnam Veterans Committee, which includes Carl Rickert, Bob DeSanto, Lonnie Miller, Greg Gorrell, Jack Cadley, Brooks Whitmore, Tim Schar, and Ann Schar, continues to organize this annual event to honor those who served during the Vietnam War and to educate future generations about the complexities of the conflict.
A Legacy of Thought-Provoking Speakers
Committee member Bob DeSanto reflected on past reunions, which have featured esteemed guest speakers and authors who have shared their personal experiences and perspectives on the Vietnam War:
Ron Rutowski, author of We Were Not the Enemy, discussed the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans and the Cold War’s political and military complexities.
Lou Jennings, author of 19 Minutes to Live, shared his harrowing experiences as an Air Cavalry Cobra Gunship pilot, highlighting the critical role of helicopters in the Vietnam War.
Donna Rowe, a former head nurse at the 3rd Field Hospital in Saigon, provided insight into the medical challenges and heroism in the war’s triage units.
Colonel Robert Springer, a Vietnam veteran and NASA astronaut, recounted his time as a Marine Corps pilot and his transition to space exploration.
Patrick McLaughlin, author of Cheerful Obedience, presented the challenges of infantry service in Vietnam and the deep bonds formed among soldiers.
This year marks a significant milestone, as Kim Phuc will be the first non-Vietnam veteran to serve as the event’s guest speaker.
Kim Phuc: A Story of Tragedy and Triumph
Kim Phuc was only nine years old in 1972 when she was photographed fleeing her village after a South Vietnamese Air Force pilot mistakenly dropped napalm on civilians. The Pulitzer Prize-winning image, captured by Associated Press photographer Nick Ut, became one of the most haunting and powerful symbols of the Vietnam War.
Severely burned and left for dead, Kim was eventually rescued by Ut, who took her to a hospital where she fought for survival. For years, she endured painful medical treatments and struggled with the trauma of her experience. The Communist government in Vietnam later used her as a propaganda tool, a role she deeply resented.
Kim eventually sought asylum in Canada, where she rebuilt her life. Now a wife, mother, and advocate for peace, she has dedicated herself to helping children affected by war through The Kim Foundation International. She is also the author of Fire Road, a memoir detailing her journey from war victim to global humanitarian.
Kim Phuc’s message is one of healing and hope. She often says, “I am no longer a victim of war. I am now a survivor of war.” Her presence at the Ashland County Vietnam Veterans Reunion is expected to be an inspiring and deeply moving experience for all attendees.
Honoring Veterans, Preserving History
The Ashland County Vietnam Veterans Reunion continues to serve as an important event for veterans and their families, fostering connections and ensuring the sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten. The 2025 reunion is sure to be an unforgettable gathering, with Kim Phuc’s speech offering a powerful perspective on war, survival, and reconciliation.
For tickets and further details, contact the DeSanto Kellogg Law Office at 432 Center Street (419) 289-1454 from 9am to 4pm.
