Local Man to Receive Congressional Gold Medal for Heroic Service as Dustoff Crew Member in Vietnam
Bob Nevins in helicopter. Photo provided
GALWAY — With the passage of the Dustoff Crews of the Vietnam War Congressional Gold Medal Act, signed by Pres. Joe Biden on Sept. 26, Alliance180 founder Bob Nevins will receive a Congressional Gold Medal, earning this honor for his service as a Dustoff helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War.
Nevins, who now dedicates his life to helping fellow veterans through Alliance180, was part of the elite Dustoff crews who pioneered the concept of rapid medical evacuation using helicopters, transporting nearly 900,000 wounded soldiers, allied forces, and civilians during the Vietnam War.
The crews risked their lives daily to rescue those injured in combat, often flying into dangerous territory under intense enemy fire.
“This recognition isn’t just for me,” said Nevins in a statement. “It’s for every Dustoff crew member who risked their life to save others. We weren’t just soldiers—we were there to preserve life in the middle of chaos. Every mission reminded us how precious that was.”
Following the award of the gold medal in honor of the Dustoff Crews of the Vietnam War, the medal will be given to the U.S. Army Medical Department Museum for display and research. Duplicate bronze versions will be available for sale. For more information about Alliance180, visit https://www.alliance180.org