On August 7th, in recognition of National Purple Heart Day, our AFA Palm Springs Chapter 134 had the opportunity to connect local news station KESQ with a combat-decorated veteran for a special televised interview.
The request came in quickly. Early Thursday morning, KESQ contacted our chapter after seeing our recent Purple Heart Day posts on our website and Facebook page. The station was looking to interview a U.S. military combat Purple Heart recipient — and they needed someone available almost immediately to meet a 4:00 p.m. broadcast deadline.
With little time to spare, we reached out to chapter member Rick Johnson, who in turn contacted his neighbor and friend, Gary Lucas — retired U.S. Army Major, Vietnam War veteran, Purple Heart recipient. Fortunately, Gary was in the area for a VA Clinic appointment and was available right after. The interview was arranged on the spot, and KESQ met Gary at the Palm Desert VA Clinic.
Gary delivered a heartfelt and compelling interview, joined by fellow Vietnam veteran and friend Billy Terronova, who was also seriously wounded in combat. Their stories brought a powerful voice to Purple Heart Day, honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who have been wounded in service to our nation.
About Gary Lucas
Major Gary Lucas, U.S. Army (Retired), served 21 years on active duty from 1960 to 1981. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Professional Aeronautics and Business Management from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.
During his first Vietnam combat tour in 1966, Gary rose through the enlisted ranks to E-6. After returning to the United States, he attended Warrant Officer Flight Training, earning his pilot wings and promotion to W-1. In his second Vietnam tour (1968), he was promoted to W-2 and later received a battlefield commission to Second Lieutenant.
As a Cobra helicopter gunship pilot, Gary flew in 675 combat engagements. His decorations include the Air Medal with 26 oak-leaf clusters, three Bronze Stars for meritorious achievement in combat, the Purple Heart, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry for extraordinary heroism awarded by the Government of South Vietnam.
Following his military career, Gary became a post-maintenance test pilot, worked in Top Secret aviation research and development, and later in threat analysis and the design of advanced security and surveillance systems.
Thanks to the quick coordination between AFA Palm Springs, Rick Johnson, and KESQ, Gary’s story — and the stories of all Purple Heart recipients — reached a wide audience on National Purple Heart Day, reminding us of the service, sacrifice, and valor that this medal represents.
