Honor in the Air looking to bring back patriotism
By Ginna Young
Few may know the name of Capt. Scott. R. Alwin, a veteran pilot of the Vietnam War, but for Cornell and the surrounding areas, that looks to change. Alwin was born and raised in Wisconsin, and served in the 68th Assault Helicopter Company in Vietnam, from 1967-71.
Tragically, he lost his life at the hands of a drunk driver upon returning to the United States, after being discredited by those he fought to protect. But for friends and family who knew him, Alwin hasn’t been forgotten, nor has his service.
It’s believed that Alwin is the pilot awarded the most air medals for any branch of the service in the history of military flight.
“He lived an honorable life…and yet, he wasn’t honored for what he was doing,” said Cornell American Legion adjutant Raymond Peterson. “It’s amazing for Wisconsin.”
To educate the public on the many awards Alwin received and what his life was like, before, during and after the war, his sister will be on hand Saturday, Oct. 9, at 2 p.m., at the Cornell High School. Called simply “Honor in the Air,” those who knew Alwin will share his story in a free presentation.
Peterson first heard about the pilot on a trip to Madison, then brought up Alwin’s name at a Legion meeting in Cornell. One of the post members was struck by the story of the decorated pilot and said that Cornell needed to let people know of it.
It’s especially poignant for the Legion members, as Peterson says they were dismayed when marching in the Memorial Day parade in Cornell, this spring, on the lack of attendees lining Main Street. Peterson said it wasn’t that way decades ago, and how he remembers people pushing to get a spot on Main Street to show their respect and pride in their fallen soldiers.
“It was loaded with people,” said Peterson.
Peterson hopes with the presentation that is open to anyone, from anywhere, that people can get back to their roots.
“Things have changed in America…we’ve kind of lost that,” he said. “The words for me, are Americanism and patriotism.”
