To the Vietnamese people and the government of the DRVN:
From John Sidney McCain, 624787, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy,
born 29 August, 1936, Panama, home state Oregon. Shot down 26 October,
1967, A-4E aircraft.
I, as a U.S. airman, am guilty of crimes against the Vietnamese
country and people. I bombed their cities, towns and villages and
caused many injuries, even deaths, for the people of Vietnam.
I was captured in the capital city of Hanoi, while attacking it.
After I was captured, I was taken to the hospital in Hanoi, where I
received very good medical treatment. I was given an operation on my
leg, which allowed me to walk again, and a cast on my right arm,
which was badly broken in three places.
The doctors were very good and they knew a great deal about the
practice of medicine. I remained in the hospital for some time and
regained much of my health and strength. Since I arrived in the camp
of detention, I received humane and lenient treatment.
I received this kind treatment and food even though I came here
as an aggressor and the people who I injured have much difficulty in
their living standards. I wish to express my deep gratitude for my
kind treatment and I will never forget this kindness extended to me.