In an extraordinary journey of remembrance and healing, a group of Vietnam veterans from the transportation industry, along with dedicated supporting staff members, will embark on a once-in-a-lifetime excursion to visit Vietnam on November 4, 2023. On this remarkable mission, Veterans in Trucking is partnering with Waypoint Vets, FASTPORT, and Wreaths Across America, to give veterans an opportunity to witness the nation’s transformation and rekindle connections to its enduring beauty.
Let’s meet the Vietnam veterans who will be part of this expedition:
William Paul Delp | Lansdale Warehouse
- Branch: Army
- William Paul Delp, a former Staff Sergeant (SSG) in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1970, served with the 7th Aerial Port Squadron in Pacific Air Force 314. He played a critical role as a Loadmaster, responsible for transporting personnel and supplies from Okinawa to Vietnam via C-130 on monthly rotations. William’s expertise earned him the position of Instructor.
Richard Early | Richard Early Trucking
- Branch: Navy
- Richard has been a stalwart in the trucking industry for an impressive 42 years, showcasing his dedication and commitment to his profession.
Francis Ehrhardt
- Branch: Navy
- Francis Ehrhardt started his military journey as a high school junior when he joined the Navy Reserve in 1963. Following boot camp in the summer of ’63, he underwent intensive electronics training. Rising to the rank of Sergeant (SGT), he became an Electronics Technician (ETN2) E-4 after only three months of active duty. Francis served aboard the USS Saratoga (CVA-60), completing two Mediterranean tours and visiting numerous ports during his 17 out of 24 months at sea.
Charley Endorf | Werner Enterprises
- Branch: Army
- Charley Endorf served in Bein Hoa Province, south of Saigon, during the 1969 TET offensive. His dedicated service in challenging conditions demonstrates his unwavering commitment. With a 50-year marriage and a 46-year trucking career, Charley looks forward to revisiting Vietnam to witness the country’s transformation.
John Frey | CRST
- Branch: Marine Corps
- John Frey organized a parachute jump with the Vietnamese Armed Forces in the early 90s, visited many of the historic sights in North & South Vietnam, and even had a personal audience with Madame Dinh, the first female NVA General. He retired in 1995 and worked for Werner Enterprises 1995-2015 as VP of Safety and Recruiting. Frey developed the first apprenticeship program for the transportation industry. He is a former board member of Commercial Vehicle Training Association, National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools, and HELP Inc
John (David) Harman | NFI Industries
- Branch: Air Force
- John Harman’s military career began with ROTC before he joined the Air Force. Stationed at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Virginia, he worked on jet engines as a mechanic to support Vietnam air missions. Now, he enjoys spending time with his family and driving motorcycles when he’s not on the road. His trip to Vietnam is a tribute to his father, a pilot deployed in Vietnam, and a way to honor the friends he lost to the conflict.
Johnnie McGlothen | CRST
- Branch: Army
- Johnnie McGlothen served as a Sergeant (SGT) in the United States Army from May 4, 1970, to Nov. 18, 1971, with his Vietnam tour from Nov. 18, 1970, to Nov. 18, 1971. His dedicated service within the 1098 Transportation Unit demonstrated courage and commitment, making a valuable contribution to his country and fellow servicemen.
Ralph (Leroy) Neyhart | NFI Industries
- Branch: Army
- Ralph Neyhart’s military journey took him from Canto to Saigon, where he served as a door gunner on a helicopter. In his civilian life, he has dedicated 50 years to driving trucks, demonstrating his passion for his career and his love for the open road.
These veterans, with their diverse backgrounds and stories, will embark on a journey of healing, remembrance, and reconnection. Their mission serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the enduring spirit of those who have served and the power of reconciliation and healing.
Stay tuned as we follow their incredible journey to Vietnam and witness the transformations it brings.
