Telling the stories of a narrow escape from Vietnam and an immigrant’s struggle in America, Brig. Gen. Viet Luong captured hearts and minds at an event that brought the Trojan and military families together Wednesday evening.
Luong gave the keynote address at the seventh annual gala for USC veterans and ROTC students at The Westin Bonaventure Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.
“This fabled story only happens here,” said Luong, who in 2014 became the first U.S. military general born in Vietnam. “I am an American by choice, not by birth.”
Welcoming 800 guests, many in full dress uniform, USC President C. L. Max Nikias noted the university’s unwavering commitment to the U.S. armed forces.
“It is more than pride we feel, it is love of country,” Nikias said. “This banquet is a powerful reminder that we live in a country borne on a mighty dream of freedom. Our veterans are part of a long line of noble warriors who answer that call, and they will always have our deepest gratitude.”
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