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Last U.S. Serviceman in Vietnam, Juan Valdez, Dies

3/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Juan Jose Valdez, the last American serviceman to leave Vietnam, died February 15 at age 88 from pneumonia.
He served as Master Gunnery Sergeant and the senior NCO at the United States (U.S.) Embassy in Saigon in April 1975.
As North Vietnam invaded, he helped evacuate thousands of Vietnamese who had supported the U.S. during Operation Frequent Wind.
His actions marked a notable moment in the Vietnam War's final chapter.

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Story summary

Juan Jose Valdez, the last American serviceman to leave Vietnam, died February 15 at age 88 from pneumonia.
He served as Master Gunnery Sergeant and the senior NCO at the United States (U.S.) Embassy in Saigon in April 1975.
As North Vietnam invaded, he helped evacuate thousands of Vietnamese who had supported the U.S. during Operation Frequent Wind.
His actions marked a notable moment in the Vietnam War's final chapter.