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Operation Babylift's 50th Anniversary: A Journey of Healing and Identity for Vietnamese Adoptees

Update Reflecting on Shared History: Operation Babylift Turns 50 In April 2026, a gathering in Boulder, Colorado, celebrated the 50th anniversary of Operation Babylift, a historic mission supervised by President Gerald Ford that evacuated approximately 3,000 children from South Vietnam as Saigon fell. This poignant event focused on reconciling past hardships and celebrating new beginnings, showcasing the stories of survivors and volunteers alike. Sister Mary Nelle Gage, who dedicated years as a volunteer during the operation, took center stage at the gathering. Dressed in the traditional Vietnamese ao dai, she reached out to the audience with profound words. “Born to win,” she told the Vietnamese-born attendees, acknowledging their adoptive families’ quest to bring them home. Gage’s connection to the evacuees is personal—she has been committed to their journeys and experiences since the 1970s, leading tours to Vietnam that help adoptees reclaim their roots. The Invisible Threads Connecting Generations Among those sharing their stories was Devaki Murch, who organized the month-long exhibit titled “Invisible Threads.” The exhibit is a visual narrative tracing the lives of those involved in the operation, including the children, their caretakers, and the adoptive parents. Murch herself was a survivor of the tragic plane crash during the Babylift operation, which claimed the lives of many, including 78 children. Her story reflects resilience, having transitioned from survivor to advocate, ensuring that the stories of adoptees like herself are preserved and honored. Recognizing the Past: A Call for Acknowledgment The event in Boulder was not just a mere celebration; it is part of a much larger effort calling for the acknowledgment of complex histories surrounding the Vietnam War and its aftermath. Just as Murch’s exhibit has encouraged dialogue about adoption, identity, and heritage, similar initiatives, like those organized by Regis University, aim to preserve the myriad narratives emerging from this era. Through exhibitions, storytelling events, and community gatherings, voices once silenced are now being amplified, articulating experiences that often remained hidden. Emotional Journeys: Understanding Identity The gathering also highlighted the emotional journeys of many adoptees. Steve George and Kim Delevett, both evacuees, shared their struggles in reconciling their identities as Vietnamese Americans. They conveyed the complexities of navigating cultural identity and familial connections. Sessions during the event served as a catalyst for many adoptees to explore their origins and develop a greater sense of belonging within a broader community. The Power of Memory: What Lies Ahead As Murch continues her archiving efforts, one thing becomes clear—these stories matter. The Invisible Threads initiative serves as a reminder that the past is interwoven with the present, forming connections that can heal generations. For adoptees, the opportunity to uncover their identity brings closure, understanding, and a renewed sense of purpose. “We’re trying to reclaim our narratives,” Murch stated, focusing on the importance of preserving these histories as they continue to evolve. In recognizing the significance of Operation Babylift, attendees are not merely recalling an event; they are participating in creating a legacy. As this community grows and evolves, so too does the understanding of what it means to be a part of a shared history—one filled with both pain and triumph. In closing, let the story of Operation Babylift serve as a beacon of hope and recognition, a call to honor the past while building paths for future generations.