BLUF
More than 200 RAAF personnel were involved. In the chaos of Saigon’s collapse, Australian crews risked everything—facing gunfire, sabotage, and tragedy—to evacuate orphans, nurses, nuns, vehicles, refugees, and staff in a race against time.Learning Outcomes
• Understand the influence of historical military events: The article reveals Australia’s lesser-known role in the final days of the Vietnam War—highlighting the operational complexity and emotional toll of humanitarian air missions.
• Recognise the human cost of international conflict: Through firsthand accounts, it reflects on the personal sacrifice, trauma, and ethical dilemmas faced by personnel operating in extreme conditions.
