The LuLac Edition #5, 314, May 1st, 2025
NOT ON MEDICAID?
NOT YOUR PROBLEM
THINK
AGAIN
Okay, you’re not on Medicaid. No friends, no families, just not on Medicaid. But it still will have an impact on your life. Republicans’ proposed Medicaid cuts would make it harder, even for people with private insurance, to access care at hospitals and clinics. Because people who lose Medicaid coverage would use emergency rooms more frequently, it would make those emergency rooms more crowded. Rising uncompensated care costs at hospitals and clinics would devastate safety net and rural health centers. Plummeting Medicaid reimbursements would cause hospitals to pass along higher charges to patients and private insurers. The insurers, in turn, would increase premiums for those with employer-based coverage. Reduced Medicaid reimbursements would force hospitals and clinics to cut hours and lay off workers, who would lose income and health coverage themselves, harming their families and all our communities. Remaining health workers would become even more overworked and overwhelmed, degrading everyone’s quality of care.
Additionally, House Republicans’ proposed Medicaid cuts would leave state governments with budget holes of hundreds of millions, and in many cases, billions of dollars. These budget gaps would prompt tax increases or massive cuts to health and social services, education and infrastructure, resources we all depend on.
LOCAL APPEAL FOR PUBLIC MEDIA
It was 1966 and I was very excited. A new TV station was going on the air. The outlet would be joining NBC, CBS, and ABC. To be clear, at the age of 12 I was a broadcast nerd. When I told my classmates about this new medium, I was given blank stares until my sixth-grade friend who was a girl (it was a Roman Catholic school, what can I say) asked “Will they show the Monkees?” At that point, I knew I was alone in this matter.
I commandeered the large black and white behemoth TV (it was the size of a refrigerator) and sat on an ottoman right next to the TV as the signal broadcast what we used to call snow. After a delay, the station went on the air.
WVIA TV. On that night, I had no idea how that evening would change my life personally and others in its huge broadcast area that would be enriched beyond their wildest imagination. A few years later WVIA FM radio went on the air and I was fortunate to work there. In the early days, on had to explain to some folks what Public media was all about.
But with consistency, content and credibility, WVIA TV and Radio became a fabric of the culture in NEPA. It was a library of the airwaves. If you were interested in medieval history, politics, cooking, sewing, woodworking, building a house, listening to a symphony, a rock band, hell even a polka, an Andy Hardy movie, s science program, the arts, the past, present, the future, it was ALL there.
Public media was the forum of information that elevated. For many, like my sixth grade friend who was a girl, it was aspirational. After a series of inadequate life decisions, she reformed her life by making sure her children learned from children’s programming. After a stint on government help, she used the classical TV and arts programming to refine her social skills and killed it on every interview she used to get a job she always wanted. Aspirational.
Then there was the neighborhood kid that everybody knew wasn’t going anywhere except to the County jail. Skipping school was his specialty. But he did like wrecking things with a hammer. A neighbor of mine said he could rebuild stuff, not tear it down. The kid started watching Bob Villa and all the building shows. He took his skills from TV but still wasn’t going anywhere from that neighborhood. He wound up buying and remodeling 5 houses owned by dearly departed neighbors and turning them into incredible houses. One of them was my family home which sold at market for over $300,000. In Pittston.
I’m sharing these stories with you because Public media has had through the years changed the direction of people’s lives. Not to take anything away from commercial broadcast TV, but Public Media is different. It is an investment in the basic tenants of our lives. Imagine your lives WITHOUT it.
Right now it is under attack by an administration that is hellbent on making America stupid again. YOU CAN HELP.
With this link, write your Congressman or Senator and tell them that the money allocated is less than 1/10th of 1 percent of the federal budget. Here’s that link: https://protectmypublicmedia.org/rsc-emails/
PUSHING BACK ON A BULLY
FIRED PUBLIC TELEVISION OFFICIALS SUE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO BLOCK TERMINATIONS
Meanwhile three officials have been terminated from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the nonprofit that oversees the funding for public television and radio, according to a lawsuit filed Tuesday against the Trump administration.
Three members of the group's Board of Directors, Tom Rothman, Diane Kaplan and Laura Ross, said in a court filing that President Trump doesn't have the authority to fire them.
"Indeed, under the Act, Congress made it clear that it the CPB is a private corporation, over whom the President has no authority save the ability to nominate members of the Board of Directors, with the advice and consent of the Senate," lawyers for the trio wrote in the court filing.
The three ousted officials are seeking to block the terminations.
According to the court documents, the three board members received an email from Trent Morse, the deputy director of White House personnel, that notified the board members that their positions were terminated. The correspondence said in full, "On behalf of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position on the Corporation for Public Broadcasting is terminated effective immediately. Thank you for your service."
TRUMP LIES
ABOUT BIDEN ECONOMY
The Biden economy was the strongest economy in recovery after a worldwide pandemic. FACT.
The economy added 15.7 million jobs. The number is now 6.3 million higher than before the pandemic.
The U.S. economy has continued to expand under Biden, growing at 2.8% in the second quarter estimate released July 25 — double the rate of growth in the first quarter.
Corporate profits are up 36%.
The international trade deficit for goods and services went up 22.3%.
The number of people receiving food stamps has decreased by more than half a million. THAT MEANS THEY ARE WORKING.
Trump’s first Presidency was left with a good economy from President Obama. Twice he has ben the beneficiary of good stewardship.
But HE LIES. It’s almost like a guy being left a sliver platter of lobster, turning it into a pile of 30 day old big macs then blames the guys who gave him the lobster for his belly ache.
TRUMP: MAKING AMERICA POOR AGAIN
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CONSUMERS’ EXPECTATIONS FOR THE FUTURE ARE AT A 13-YEAR LOW
The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index® fell by 7.9 points in April to 86.0 (1985=100). The Present Situation Index—based on consumers’ assessment of current business and labor market conditions—decreased 0.9 points to 133.5. The Expectations Index—based on consumers’ short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions—dropped 12.5 points to 54.4, the lowest level since October 2011 and well below the threshold of 80 that usually signals a recession ahead. The cutoff date for preliminary results was April 21, 2025.
“Consumer confidence declined for a fifth consecutive month in April, falling to levels not seen since the onset of the COVID pandemic,” said Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist, Global Indicators at The Conference Board. “The decline was largely driven by consumers’ expectations. The three expectation components—business conditions, employment prospects, and future income—all deteriorated sharply, reflecting pervasive pessimism about the future. Notably, the share of consumers expecting fewer jobs in the next six months (32.1%) was nearly as high as in April 2009, in the middle of the Great Recession. In addition, expectations about future income prospects turned clearly negative for the first time in five years, suggesting that concerns about the economy have now spread to consumers worrying about their own personal situations. However, consumers’ views of the present have held up, containing the overall decline in the Index.”
April’s fall in confidence was broad-based across all age groups and most income groups. The decline was sharpest among consumers between 35 and 55 years old, and consumers in households earning more than $125,000 a year. The decline in confidence was shared across all political affiliations.
DEMOCRATIC PARTY EVENTS
MAY 5th
MAY 13th
BRESNAHAN JOINS BIPARTISAN EFFORT TO CREATE CONGRESSIONAL TERM LIMITS
Congressman Rob Bresnehan (Photo: LuLac archives)
U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. announced his cosponsor ship of H.J.Res.12, an amendment to the U.S. Constitution to limit the number of terms a Member of Congress may serve. Those serving in the House of Representatives would be limited to serving three terms.
“Public office should not be seen as a lifelong career, but as a service to your community and country,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “Term limits allow for more discussion and new ideas in Congress. As a younger Member, I have seen how representation from the younger generations is lacking, and term limits would allow for these new generations to voice their opinions in an elected capacity.
“I am proud to serve as the Representative for Pennsylvania’s Eighth Congressional District, and I take great pride in advocating for my home in Congress,” continued Rep. Bresnahan. “This is not a career for me, but rather, a chance to give back to the community that raised me.”
If ratified, this amendment would limit those serving in the House of Representatives to three (3) terms, and those serving in the Senate would be limited to two (2) terms.
In order to ratify a Constitutional amendment under Article V of the Constitution, both chambers of Congress may propose an amendment by a vote of two-thirds of all Members present. The proposed amendment then must be ratified by the states as prescribed in Article V and as specified by Congress.
According to the Pew Research Center, an overwhelming majority of adults, 87%, favor limiting the number of terms that members of Congress are allowed to serve.
GOVERNOR SHAPIRO’S “LIGHTNING PLAN” INTRODUCED IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY WITH BROAD SUPPORT TO SECURE PENNSYLVANIA’S ENERGY FUTURE
Governor Josh Shapiro (Photo: LuLac archives)
,Governor Josh Shapiro’s “Lightning Plan” — a bold, all-of-the-above energy strategy to secure Pennsylvania’s energy future — was introduced the General Assembly. The plan is backed by a broad coalition of labor, industry, environmental, and consumer leaders, and is already building momentum across the Commonwealth. Designed to lower energy costs, create thousands of good-paying jobs, streamline permitting, and boost in-state energy production, the Lightning Plan positions Pennsylvania to remain a national energy leader for decades to come.
Multiple studies have shown the plan will save Pennsylvanians money on their electricity bills and generate billions in new private investment in energy infrastructure. It also builds on the Governor’s new agreement with PJM Interconnection, projected to deliver $21 billion in consumer savings over the next two years, lowering household energy bills and protecting Pennsylvania ratepayers.
Governor Shapiro has been making the case for the Lightning Plan across Pennsylvania — showcasing hydropower manufacturing at Voth Hydo in York and farm-based clean energy solutions and farm based England Farms in Blair County.
Read what bipartisan legislators from the General Assembly; labor, industry, environmental, and consumer leaders; and Pennsylvanians from all across the Commonwealth are saying about Governor Shapiro’s Lightning Plan:
Chris D'Agostino, Pennsylvania Policy Lead at Advanced Energy United: “PRESS and RESET are exactly what Pennsylvania needs right now. RESET cuts bureaucratic red tape to accelerate energy project development, while PRESS strengthens market signals to boost Pennsylvania’s growing clean energy sector. Together, they attract investment, create jobs, and lower costs for consumers. These policies, along with the Lightning Plan, are about making sure Pennsylvania isn’t left behind while other states cash in on the clean energy boom. With PRESS and RESET, we’re making moves that benefit workers, businesses, and communities across the state.”
Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance: “The Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance (KEEA) applauds Governor Shapiro and his team for introducing a full slate of legislation seeking to modernize and accelerate Pennsylvania’s energy landscape through his Lightning Plan. As a trade association representing over 70 energy efficiency businesses in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, KEEA is particularly excited to continue working alongside the Administration and the General Assembly to revisit Act 129 – the state’s electric energy savings program for all customers.”
Stanley Kocon, President & CEO of Voith Hydro North America: “Demand for electricity in the US is growing, and hydro power stands out as one of the most reliable and sustainable renewable energy sources available, not only for generating electricity, but also for storing energy — an often overlooked but essential resource to maintain a stable energy grid. We wholeheartedly support the Governor’s plan to lower electricity costs and to build and upgrade more power plants to ensure clean, reliable and affordable energy for Pennsylvania's future.”
Jim Enders, President of the Central Pennsylvania Building & Construction Trades Council: “We’re long overdue to unite behind a strategy that encourages energy production, lowers costs for energy consumers, creates good paying union jobs that offer family sustaining wages, and at the same time is mindful of the planet that we will leave behind for our kids and our grandkids. These are common sense goals that we should all be able to agree on. Organized labor is encouraged by the Governor’s leadership on an energy plan that creates thousands of good paying union jobs and puts Pennsylvania energy at the forefront.”
Kevin Schreiber, President & CEO, York County Economic Alliance: “The Lightning Plan’s impact on communities like York — where manufacturing is not just an industry but a way of life — will be transformative. The plan will attract new investments and stimulate job creation by prioritizing sustainable energy production and modernizing tax and other incentives, ensuring that advanced manufacturing remains a cornerstone of local economies. It will also empower manufacturers, such as Voith Hydro, to continue to expand operations and lead global energy innovation.”
Jen Quinn, Legislative and Political Director of the Sierra Club Pennsylvania Chapter: “Governor Shapiro’s Lightning Plan is a sensible yet ambitious plan that will improve grid reliability, stabilize consumer prices, and allow Pennsylvania to continue its role as a leader in energy production. It’s also the most significant energy policy to be introduced in decades. Demand for electricity has been skyrocketing, driven mostly by the proliferation of AI data centers, and prices have followed suit. Meanwhile, an over-reliance on gas-fired power plants and an increasing frequency of climate change-driven extreme weather events threatens the reliability of our grid. As Governor Shapiro has said many times, ‘Doing nothing is not an option.’ We agree and look forward to supporting Governor Shapiro’s continued leadership to advance this energy plan through the legislature.”
Julia Kortrey, Evergreen Action Deputy State Policy Director: “This legislation makes clear that Gov. Shapiro recognizes the status quo isn’t working for Pennsylvania families. PJM’s broken approval process is stalling clean energy projects, driving up energy bills, and holding back economic growth. The Lightning Plan is a much-needed course correction that reflects the urgency of the moment and the real costs of continued inaction. By advancing this plan, the governor is making good on his promise to deliver more reliable, affordable power, quickly. We’re grateful to the legislators who introduced this package and are helping to accelerate the clean energy deployment Pennsylvania needs now — not years down the line. We’re especially encouraged to see siting reform and community energy at the heart of this effort. These proposals chart a clear path to lower costs, create good jobs, and expand access to clean energy. With electricity demand surging, lawmakers must act swiftly to pass this legislation and build a stronger, more affordable energy system for every Pennsylvanian.”
Yvette Longenecker, Owner of Penn England Farms: “Our family has spent generations producing high-quality milk while being responsible stewards of the land — that’s why we installed a digester. A digester allows us to turn something we already have — manure — into something valuable: renewable energy. It helps power our farm, reduces odors, improves water quality, and provides an additional revenue stream to keep our operation sustainable.”
Mark Heeter, President of the Blair County Farm Bureau: "As a farmer and president of the Blair County Farm Bureau, I know the challenges our industry faces — from rising costs to the need for more efficient practices. That’s why today’s announcement is so important. The community energy proposal gives farmers the opportunity to invest in methane digesters, reduce energy costs, and improve farm operations to stay competitive. The Agricultural Innovation Program has already been a valuable resource, and increasing investment in this initiative is critical to ensuring farmers can access the technology needed to keep their businesses strong. On behalf of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and farmers across the state, I thank the administration for recognizing the importance of agriculture and supporting innovation. We look forward to working together to strengthen our industry."
Steven McKnight, President and CEO of the Altoona Blair County Development Corporation (ABCD): “Governor Shapiro quickly recognized that Pennsylvania’s last formal economic development plan was from 2003 — outdated for today’s modern economy. Since then, his administration has worked hard to create bold initiatives like the Site Development Fund, housing programs, Main Street revitalization, and the Lightning Plan, which we’re here to highlight today. Programs like these are fueling growth across the Commonwealth, allowing rural and agricultural communities — like Williamsburg — to embrace innovative energy solutions, reduce costs, and stay competitive. Governor Shapiro, we appreciate your vision, planning, and ongoing partnership in strengthening Pennsylvania’s economy."
Senator Judy Schwank: “Community Energy will make clean, renewable energy more affordable and accessible for farmers, helping them lower utility costs and boost profitability. I'm proud to partner with Governor Shapiro to introduce Community Energy legislation, which is just one exciting piece of the Lightning Plan. This is a pivotal opportunity to come together and embrace comprehensive energy policies that will power Pennsylvania's bright future."
Representative Peter Schweyer: “The demand for energy in Pennsylvania continues to grow and as demand rises so does the strain on the utility grid. Community energy will help reduce the strain on the electricity grid and help lower utility costs by allowing people that cannot currently utilize solar panels or other renewable energy sources to get access. Folks can save money and reap the grid benefits. I am pleased to work with Gov. Shapiro on community energy and look forward to getting this bill across the finish line and to his desk.”
Patrick McDonnell, President & CEO of PennFuture: “It's not just enough for us as a Commonwealth to reduce our reliance on fossil fuel infrastructure. It's important for us to boost the amount of renewable energy here in the state. It's important for us to realize the benefits to air quality, to water quality, to build those things. The Lightning Plan is a real, concrete way for us to reduce energy costs for consumers and to make sure we're putting the people of Pennsylvania to work.”
Senator Carolyn Comitta: “As a major energy-producing state, Pennsylvania is in a unique position to lead on sustainable energy sources that can reduce electric costs for families, bring new jobs to our communities, and help secure our right to clean air and pure water. PACER and the Governor’s “Lightning Plan” are the way forward to cleaner air, better economic opportunities, and consumer savings on electricity bills. I thank Governor Shapiro, Rep. Abney, and our legislative partners and co-sponsors for coming together to prioritize Pennsylvania’s future.”
Representative Aerion Abney: “PACER is a win-win for the environment and Pennsylvanians. The program is a tremendous boost to economies across the state by creating many new jobs in the energy sector and reinvests crucial funds in the protection of our planet’s health for generations to come.”
Representative Steve Samuelson: “The current qualifications for a business to claim the Semiconductor tax credits are unattainable. Not only do they leave out worthy businesses making great strides in manufacturing a key component of our electronic devices, but the credits have gone unused for the past two years. My bill would make the credits more attainable, ultimately achieving the goal of spurring economic development.”
Senator Steve Santarsiero: “I have long said that it’s a false premise to say we must choose between creating jobs OR saving our planet. I applaud Governor Shapiro for leading the way and bringing together the interests of consumers, labor and the environment to find a solution that works for all of us. To that end, I am proud to introduce legislation to create the Pennsylvania Reliable Energy Sustainability Standard, the next generation of alternative energy portfolio standards for the Commonwealth. PRESS will turbocharge energy build-out in Pennsylvania and create a more diverse mix of energy resources focusing on clean, reliable, and affordable energy.”
Representative Danielle Otten: “Pennsylvania is at a critical juncture. With energy demand skyrocketing, the PJM capacity markets facing unprecedented price spikes, and our state sorely lagging in clean energy investments, it’s imperative that we act now. PRESS, as part of Governor Shapiro's Lightning Plan, will help to diversify our energy sources, reduce emissions, build resiliency into our grid, improve reliability, and lower electricity costs for ratepayers, while creating workforce opportunities and securing Pennsylvania's position as a leader in clean, reliable, and affordable energy for the next 20 years."
Senator John I. Kane: "Pennsylvania has always been a leader in energy innovation, but red tape has held us back from building the next generation of reliable energy projects. I'm thrilled to see Governor Shapiro taking bold action with the Lightning Plan, and I'm proud to be the prime sponsor of the RESET Board, which will be a key part of that vision. This one-stop shop for energy development will get steel in the ground faster, create good jobs, lower costs for consumers, and ensure Pennsylvania remains an energy powerhouse for decades to come."
Representative Mandy Steele: “If we are serious, really and truly serious, about supercharging energy development in the state to bring costs down for Pennsylvanians and set us up as a dominant energy leader, we must streamline the process. Creating a Reliable Energy Siting and Electric Transition Board will speed up the entire process, from permitting to reducing red tape, and supporting new energy projects in a big way. I am happy to be able to work with the governor on getting this proposal through the legislative process and become law.”
Senator Lisa Boscola: "Pennsylvania’s energy future requires a balanced approach, one that prioritizes both supply and demand. Act 129 is a needed but outdated initiative. When first introduced, the program helped make households more efficient by changing out inefficient appliances. As demand continues to outpace supply, we need to reimagine the tools used to create efficiencies in our homes and businesses. Reforming this program will give homeowners and businesses the incentives they need to reduce their energy bills by making investments in items that will drive down their energy consumption. By driving down demand, the program helps ensure we have the power we need to keep Pennsylvania running. Act 129 reforms are just one component of a strategic energy policy that includes smart investments in energy efficiency, resiliency, and generation."
Representative Kyle Donahue: “I believe that Gov. Shapiro’s Lighting Plan is a fruitful step forward for the energy industry in Pennsylvania. This plan will create jobs, lower costs for consumers, protect Pennsylvania from global instability by building next generation power, and position the commonwealth to continue to be a national energy leader for decades to come. I look forward to working with Gov. Shapiro and my colleagues in the state House and Senate to support legislation that will enact this plan.”
Senator Jay Costa: “As a lifelong resident of Allegheny County, I know how important it is to deliver good, honest union jobs to our working families, regardless of whether they have a college degree. I also know the importance of keeping costs down wherever possible, so folks can put their hard-earned money where they want it to go, like their kids’ college funds or family vacation. I am proud to be supporting Governor Shapiro on his plans to do both things at once through his Lightning Plan. By unleashing Pennsylvania’s energy potential, Governor Shapiro will create energy jobs, lower energy costs, protect PA’s energy independence, and position our commonwealth as a leader in the nation.”
Senator Nick Pisciottano: “I commend Governor Shapiro for this bold, responsible, forward-looking energy plan, and I am happy to be a prime sponsor in the Senate of the EDGE tax credit programs, designed to attract new investments from businesses in critical manufacturing sectors. I share the Governor’s commitment to affordable, clean, and reliable energy for every family, business, and community in Pennsylvania. This plan will lower electricity costs, which is a top priority for our residents who are facing rising utility bills. We are excited to introduce a plan that strikes a vital balance between meeting the growing energy demands of our state, while also making sure we are protecting our environment for future generations. By focusing on both innovation and practical solutions, we are setting the stage for Pennsylvania to thrive in the energy sector and compete in the global economy.”
Representative John Inglis: “Pennsylvania energy powered the industrial revolution and Pennsylvania energy will power the technological revolutions of the future — if we make the right investments to support the projects that create jobs today and help create jobs for years to come. I’m proud to be the sponsor of the EDGE tax credits in the Lightning package to help fund energy generation and infrastructure upgrades and a brighter future.”
Representative Rob Matzie: “Pennsylvania is the crossroads of America for roads, rails, and skies. Investing in sustainable aviation fuel production with the Lightning plan helps cut emissions, create good-paying jobs, and support innovation in agriculture.”
Representative Tom Mehaffie: “Pennsylvania has lost out because the PA EDGE tax credit program was not utilized as envisioned. We are overdue to re-energize the tax credits and ensure the Commonwealth — and nation — have sources of PA-produced, reliable power for years to come.”
MEDIA MATTERS
WALN
BOLD GOLD COMMUNITY FORUM
THE LAURIE CADDEN SHOW
BOBBY V’S DOO WOP SUNDAY NIGHT SOCK HOP
BEATLE EDD’S FAB FOUR MUSIC HOUR
THE LULAC TIME MACHINE
VIETNAM WAR
WON
April 1975
1975 marked the end of the Vietnam War. The North Vietnamese People's Army of Vietnam (PAVN) launched the Spring Offensive in March; the South Vietnamese Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) was quickly defeated. The North Vietnamese captured Saigon on April 30, accepting the surrender of South Vietnam. In the final days of the war, the United States, which had supported South Vietnam for many years, carried out an emergency evacuation of its civilian and military personnel and more than 130,000 Vietnamese.At the beginning of the Spring Offensive the balance of forces in Vietnam was approximately as follows; North Vietnam: 305,000 soldiers, 600 armored vehicles and 490 heavy artillery pieces in South Vietnam and South Vietnam: 1.0 million soldiers, 26 1,200 to 1,400 tanks and more than 1,000 pieces of heavy artillery.: 333 .
Helicopter evacuations of Vietnamese and Americans continued from the Embassy until 03:45. However, there were still about 420 Vietnamese and other non-Americans left inside the Embassy compound. Two additional helicopters were dispatched with the pilots instructed by Ford that only Americans were to be evacuated. Martin and his staff were to board the first of the helicopters and the remaining American staff were to leave on the second helicopter. Additional helicopters were then sent to evacuate the Marine guards, under the command of Major James Kean, with the last eleven leaving the Embassy at 07:53. Master Sergeant Juan Valdez was the last Marine to board the last helicopter out of Saigon. The 420 people awaiting evacuation were abandoned.[4]: 471–7 Twenty-five years of U.S. military involvement in South Vietnam had ende Around 07:30, ARVN soldiers held at the Newport Bridge to prevent the PAVN advance. At 10:24 President Minh announced on the radio the surrender of South Vietnam. 175 An ARVN major who attempt to blow up Newport Bridge by electrical detonator later abandoned the plan, ending major resistance. At 10:30 PAVN soldiers and tanks crossed the Newport Bridge without any resistance and moved into the city. About noon and almost unopposed, a column of PAVN tanks and armored vehicles advanced into downtown Saigon. A tank crashed through the gate of the Presidential Palace. Inside, Minh awaited the arrival of the North Vietnamese and surrendered. The ARVN soldiers had mostly abandoned their posts and the remainder of Saigon was captured with little opposition. 481–3 The new communist government announced that Saigon had been renamed Ho Chi Minh City.177 . According to radio broadcast from Bangkok, several Mekong provincial capitals refused to surrender to the VC shortly after Minh ordered central government and ARVN forces ceased to exist. The next day, the remnants of Mekong provincial capitals dissolved. On Phu Quoc Island, ARVN soldiers and Republic of Vietnam Navy sailors fought against superior VC units near the pier in Duong Dong until Minh's surrender broadcast. The soldiers and sailors later surrendered to VC at the navy pier to avoid further bloodshed. In Cần Thơ, Brigadier General Lê Văn Hưng, a hero of the Battle of An Loc, committed suicide at 20:45 after farewelling the remaining ARVN soldiers and his family. General Hung was one of five ARVN generals who refused to surrender to VC and committed suicide. 19–20
posted by David Yonki @ 6:11 PM
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