Richard Secord, a retired Air Force Major General, had a remarkable and controversial career that spanned decades. He served in Vietnam, Iran, and Laos, flying combat missions and leading military operations. He faced challenges in both his professional and personal life, including being involved in the Iran-Contra affair in the late 1980s.
Secord was one of the U.S. airmen sent to Vietnam under “Operation Farm Gate,” which was a cover story for conducting combat missions against North Vietnamese forces. He faced danger and flew under the radar to stay safe, despite his plane being struck by enemy gunfire.
After Vietnam, Secord continued to serve in Iran and Laos, where he played a crucial role in a successful prisoner-of-war rescue mission. He later became involved in the Iran-Contra affair, where he helped manage arms sales to Iran and transfer profits to the Contras in Nicaragua.
Secord faced legal troubles related to his involvement in the Iran-Contra affair but ultimately had his conviction overturned. Despite these challenges, he wants the public to remember that his conviction was reversed and that he was not incarcerated for his actions.
Secord’s life has been a mix of triumphs and tragedies, from his military successes to the personal strains he faced, including a bitter family dispute. Through it all, he has demonstrated resilience and a willingness to share his story, even at the age of 92.
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