Escorting Ukrainian Refugees to Canada – Kim Phuc Phan Thi

How did you meet Enrique Piñeyro?

I received an email from his assistant, explaining that they had paid AP for permission to use Nick Ut’s photo of me and that he would like to paint the photo on his private jet with the words, “No War.” One thing that really impressed me was that he asked my personal permission. Usually, from many years of experience, when people use my picture they never ask for my permission; his NGO, Solidaire, also made a contribution to The KIM Foundation International; and of course, I knew it was for a good purpose. No War – that is what my picture is about, and my foundation’s mission is to help underprivileged children who are victims of war and violence. Of course I said Yes he could use my picture. I had the idea to join him and fly with my picture; I’m so glad he agreed. I wanted to talk with him myself and we talked on the phone; that’s how I got to know him.

What role did you play in Solidaire’s rescue mission?

I welcomed the 236 Ukrainian refugees on board and escorted them to their new home in Saskatchewan, Canada.

You said, “This trip was the most meaningful event in the fifty years of my journey.” What made this trip so meaningful for you?

When I welcomed them on board, to Canada, my heart was really touched. My mouth was smiling, but my eyes, crying. It was meaningful for two main reasons.

First, fifty years ago I was a child; I have been there, facing war; my village and my house destroyed; so many innocent people killed; and I was one who directly became the victim of war and I understand what they are going through now; I understand the pain, the loss, the negative emotions, and everything they’re feeling because I experienced it fifty years ago.

Second, thirty years ago I was a refugee like they are now, going to Canada. Fifty years ago on June 8, 1972, I was at the wrong place at the wrong time; now – not in June, but July 4th – I was in the right place at the right time, and my presence to welcome them there is a symbol of hope, of peace. My tears mean, I love you, I understand what you’re feeling, what you need, but my smile gives you hope, gives you love, gives you joy. Don’t give up hope. Not only so much emotion, but it’s so real.

That was my part, but I am so thankful for Canada’s willingness to receive them, and Enrique’s being willing to give them transportation, an aircraft, taking care of all expenses and bringing them to a safe place. To those refugees I would like to say, “Please, don’t take it for granted; be thankful.” I know the Ukrainian people work hard and they will do their best to learn and to adapt to all new situations and the unknown future; but they should know that people around them love them and are willing to help; they are not alone.

I also want to thank Òscar Camps and his NGO, Open Arms. Enrique has partnered with Òscar, and the whole team worked so tirelessly. These are the reasons that make this trip the highlight of my journey for the last fifty years.

What is your favourite memory from the trip?

I met Sofiia, a nine year old girl. She became my best friend; I miss her already.

Will you be joining Solidaire for any more flights?

If I have the opportunity, I would love to go again.

You can see some media coverage in the following links:

• 1972 ‘Napalm Girl’ escorts Ukraine refugees to Canada – AP
• Displaced Ukrainians begin new life in Saskatchewan – CTV News
• La foto que detuvo una guerra, la “niña del napalm” y 236 ucranianos rumbo a Canadá: un nuevo vuelo humanitario de Enrique Piñeyro – Infobae
• “La niña del napalm”: entrevista exclusiva con Kim Phuc a 50 años de la foto histórica de Vietnam – Infobae