The Last Flight Out: A Tale of Escaping Saigon with Eva Nguyen Whitfield

Eva Nguyen Whitfield is an extraordinary woman whose life story is both harrowing and inspiring. Eva is the author of the memoir “Uncommon Cargo,” which details her family’s dramatic escape from Saigon during the Vietnam War, an event that she has painstakingly documented to preserve her family’s history and honor the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans. It is believed they were the last plane out before the fall of Saigon.

Eva’s story is one of courage, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. In our conversation, she shared the profound reasons behind her decision to write “Uncommon Cargo” and the emotional journey that came with it.

A Tribute to a Heroic Father

One of the primary motivations for Eva to write her memoir was to honor her late father, a South Vietnamese C-130 pilot. Eva’s father had planned to fly the last flight out of Saigon with his family, but tragically, he did not make it. His ultimate sacrifice left a lasting impact on Eva and her family. By sharing her family’s story, Eva hopes to keep her father’s memory alive and ensure that his bravery and dedication are never forgotten.

Eva recounted the chaotic and desperate scenes at the Tan Son Nhat Airport, where her father made the ultimate sacrifice. The airport was under heavy shelling as the Viet Cong advanced, and the atmosphere was one of utter chaos. Soldiers were abandoning their posts, and civilians were desperate to escape. Eva’s father, with unwavering determination, had hidden the C-130 plane in a hangar under repair, making it the only available aircraft for their escape.

On the day of their departure, the plane was missing a door and barely flyable, yet it was their only hope. Eva’s father, despite the imminent danger, was focused on getting his family and as many others as possible to safety. He was supposed to pilot the plane, but in a tragic twist of fate, he never boarded. The last image Eva’s family had of him was at the cockpit, leading them to believe he was on board. However, it is believed he got off the plane to move a truck that was obstructing its path, and in the ensuing chaos, he was shot and killed.

His bravery ensured the plane could take off, saving hundreds of lives, including his family’s. The plane flew at an unusually low altitude of 10,000 feet due to the missing door, making the journey even more perilous. This act of heroism, coupled with the sheer desperation of the situation, underscores the immense sacrifice Eva’s father made. He put the lives of others before his own, a true testament to his character and dedication.

Eva’s father’s story is not just one of sacrifice but also one of immense love and commitment. His actions allowed Eva and her family to reach Thailand and eventually the United States, where they could start anew. His ultimate sacrifice is a central theme in Eva’s memoir, highlighting the extraordinary lengths to which people will go to protect their loved ones.

Gratitude for a New Beginning

Eva also wrote her book as a way to publicly thank the United States for providing refuge during her family’s most desperate time. She expressed deep gratitude for the Vietnam veterans who served and sacrificed so much. Her story serves as a reminder of the good that exists in the world, even in the darkest times.

Arriving in the United States as a widow with two young children, Eva’s mother faced immense challenges. With no knowledge of English and only the clothes on their backs, Eva’s family relied heavily on the kindness of strangers. The community in Falls Church, Virginia, where they eventually settled, provided crucial support. Eva’s gratitude for the help they received is palpable and serves as a testament to the generosity and compassion of the American people.

Preserving History for Future Generations

Another significant reason for writing “Uncommon Cargo” was Eva’s desire to document her family’s history and heritage. She wanted her two sons to understand their roots and appreciate the sacrifices that were made for their freedom. Eva’s book is a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving family stories and history, especially those that involve significant historical events.

Eva’s mother and uncles were initially reluctant to share their painful memories. However, through extensive interviews and conversations, they opened up, providing a rich tapestry of experiences that Eva wove into her memoir. This process was not only therapeutic for them but also brought the family closer together.

A Journey of Resilience

Eva’s journey from Saigon to the United States was fraught with danger and uncertainty. Her family’s escape involved a perilous flight in a barely functional plane, packed beyond capacity, and a series of stops in refugee camps before finally reaching the United States. The determination and resilience displayed by her family during this journey are truly remarkable.

Eva recounted how her father had hidden the C-130 plane in a hangar under repair, making it the only available aircraft for their escape. The plane, missing a door and barely flyable, managed to carry them to safety in Thailand. Her father’s quick thinking and bravery saved not only his family but also hundreds of others who were on that flight.

Overcoming Adversity

Settling in a new country was not easy for Eva’s family. They faced numerous challenges, including language barriers and financial hardships. Eva’s mother, who was fluent in French and Vietnamese, eventually found work at the World Bank, leveraging her language skills. Despite the difficulties, the family persevered, with the support of their local community and the church.

Eva’s story is also one of the American dream. Despite the immense challenges, her family managed to build a new life in the United States. Eva herself went on to achieve academic and professional success, embodying the resilience and determination that her parents instilled in her.

The Importance of Storytelling

One of the most compelling aspects of Eva’s journey was her decision to share her family’s story with the world. Her co-author, Jason Nolton, who she met through their children’s Boy Scout activities, encouraged her to document her experiences. What started as a casual conversation turned into a ten-year journey to bring “Uncommon Cargo” to life.

Eva’s memoir is more than just a personal account; it is a call to others to share their stories. She hopes that by telling her family’s story, she can inspire others to preserve their histories and acknowledge the diverse narratives that shape our world.

Reflecting on the Past, Looking to the Future

In this episode, Eva shared the emotional experience of returning to Vietnam in 2017 with her husband and sons. Visiting her old home in Saigon, now a government building, was a poignant reminder of the life they left behind and the new beginnings they found in America. This trip allowed Eva to connect her sons with their heritage and provided a deeper understanding of their family’s past.

As the 50th anniversary of their escape approaches, Eva continues to share her story through various speaking engagements and media appearances. She is committed to ensuring that the sacrifices of her family and the broader context of the Vietnam War are not forgotten.

A Message of Hope and Resilience

Eva Nguyen Whitfield’s story is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of preserving our histories. Her memoir, “Uncommon Cargo,” serves as a tribute to her father, a gratitude note to her adopted country, and a legacy for future generations. It is a story of hope, courage, and the enduring power of family.

As we reflect on Eva’s journey, we are reminded of the countless untold stories of bravery and resilience that have shaped our world. Her message is clear: never stop telling your story, for it is through these narratives that we connect, learn, and grow.

Eva’s journey from the chaos of Saigon to the promise of America is a poignant reminder of the strength and determination that define the human experience. Her story, captured beautifully in “Uncommon Cargo,” is one that will inspire and resonate with readers for generations to come.

In sharing her family’s history, Eva not only honors the past but also encourages us all to embrace our stories and the legacies we leave behind.

See her full interview here: