Issaquah Veteran Honored for Heroic Service in Vietnam

John Seebeth, a Vietnam War veteran, received the Congressional Gold Medal for his service in the Army air ambulance unit known as "dustoff. " This honor, which took over nine years to secure, acknowledges the significant contributions of dustoff crews, credited with saving over 900,000 lives during the Vietnam War. Seebeth enlisted at 20 and flew dangerous missions as a helicopter medic, sustaining severe injuries from a gunshot wound in 1969. His recovery journey was marked by trauma, including a two-year inability to speak. In the aftermath, he found purpose in advocating for peace and environmental causes, earning local recognition, including the Issaquah Kiwanis Club Environmental Award.

U. S. Senator John Cornyn commended the dustoff crews for their bravery in one of history's most perilous conflicts. Today, Seebeth's experiences continue to shape his efforts to minimize suffering and promote a message of love and care for others. His story highlights the long-lasting impact of war on veterans and the importance of recognizing their sacrifices.