Freedom, to my parents, isn’t just a word, it’s their entire story. Many know of their great escape from communism in Vietnam during the 1970s, leaving behind everything: no money, no English, no family, only each other and the will to survive.
They found freedom through the kindness of Oklahomans and the strength of the United States military. From a refugee camp to mowing lawns, cleaning offices, and learning English, they worked relentlessly for several years to earn their citizenship.
My dad’s first W-2 job was as a busboy then onto as a CnC machinist; my mom worked over 25 years on an assembly line. Freedom is unshakable, and this country gave my parents everything they have. I am forever grateful.
My duty is to honor their sacrifice, respect this great nation, and be a citizen worthy of the opportunities America provides. Truly love your freedoms, this country makes you better.
You got this.
You might like to follow the delightful Hoang Lam on Twitter/X. His family’s excitement about becoming American citizens is so compelling!
So wonderful to see the gratitude in this family. A shining example for us all. God Bless them and God Bless the U.S.A., as we approach Independence Day, 250 years. Thank you, Joy.
Bless you, Bob!
They learned the language and assimilated into the very fiber of this country. Excellent additions to our population.
Yes! Hoang is also married and they have a little son!
A story worth telling and retelling.
It sure is, Dennis!
A heartwarming and inspirational story. Thank you for sharing it with us.
Thanks, Liz. I’ve followed Hoang’s enthusiasm for a couple of years. When he posted this yesterday, I asked if I could share it. He and his folks are certainly enjoying it as well!
You’re welcome, Joy. I’m just glad his experience in the US has been positive.
Thanks for sharing this heartwarming story, Joy. It’s hard for most of us to relate to living in such an unstable place. Hoang’s parents should be celebrated for their grit and perseverance.
Thank you, Pete. We tend to forget, don’t we, so this family helps us remember what’s precious about our nation. Hoang is grateful for my Favorite Guy’s Vietnam service. We’re headed to the neurologist for his Parkinson’s which is Vietnam related.
((( <3 )))
Thanks, Annette!
Another fine example of how immigration makes this country a better place—for those of us born here and those who come here for a better life.
Amen, Eilene. We learned that when we worked with refugees of the Bosnian war who flooded into Iowa two dozen years ago.
It’s wonderful that America was the place for Vietnamese people who didn’t want to be communists.
Thank you, Tim. Iowa also took in a whole group of Hmong people who had no place to escape to. Governor Robert Ray began our first refugee office, which is why refugees of the Bosnian war flooded into Iowa a couple of decades ago. We helped several Bosnians get settled and we’re still in touch with them. America is indeed a refuge!
It’s good to reminded of the importance of freedom.
You’re right, Jacqui. We tend to take it for granted.