Wednesday, hundreds gathered to honor the helicopter pilots and crew members killed in Vietnam. 

Since 1864, Arlington National Cemetery has symbolized the country’s appreciation for sacrifices made by armed service members. On Wednesday, a dedication ceremony was held to show appreciation for a group who played a huge role in the Vietnam War, the helicopter pilots. The five-thousand fallen pilots and crew members were honored with a permanent monument. 

“Its a place that holds today the remains of over 400,000 of our nation’s heroes from presidents to privates, all who committed themselves and their lives to maintain our nation’s security and independence,” said Carl H. McNair Jr., retired  USA Major General.   

“I can’t think of a group that is more deserving for it’s spot in history and sacrifice in that conflict,” said Congressman Mark Amodei, U.S. Representative (R-NV).

“It means the world because it took 50 something years to get here. I could almost cry because that’s how good it feels,” said Johnny Blalock, Vietnam War Veteran.  

Members of the Vietnam Helicopter Association say they’ve been working on getting the monument since 2014.