Republicans Push for Benefits for Air America, the CIA’s Secret Vietnam-Era Airline
Rep. Glenn Grothman, R-Wis., a vocal critic of the “deep state,” has surprisingly become an advocate for legislation supporting the so-called deep state. Along with other Republicans, Grothman is pushing for retirement benefits and official recognition for former employees of Air America, the CIA’s covertly owned airline.
The Air America Act
The Air America Act, introduced by Grothman and Sen. Marco Rubio, seeks to provide retirement benefits and official recognition for the 1,000 U.S. citizens who worked for the airline. The legislation aims to include some of these employees on the CIA’s “Wall of Stars,” which honors agency employees who died in service. Many Air America employees were hired as covert operatives and lack the necessary documentation to prove their federal employment status for retirement benefits.
Air America’s Controversial History
Air America played a vital but controversial role in supporting CIA activities during the Vietnam War. The airline was accused of running weapons and drugs in Southeast Asia, allegations vehemently denied by the CIA and Air America veterans. Historian Alfred McCoy’s claims even led to a First Amendment battle between McCoy and the agency.
Despite its controversial history, Grothman argues that Air America employees risked their lives fighting communism, similar to members of the Air Force.
The Lack of Oversight
Owned and operated by the CIA until 1976, Air America operated during a time when the intelligence community had little oversight. Congressional investigations, such as the Church Committee, were established to rein in the CIA’s unchecked power. Before these investigations, the director of central intelligence would simply assure Congress that everything was in order.
During this era, the CIA faced numerous scandals, including assassination attempts and involvement in coups. Air America operated during this period until its dissolution in 1976, coinciding with the establishment of the House and Senate Intelligence committees.
The Misrepresentation of Air America
The 1990 movie “Air America” portrayed the airline as a cynical operation involved in smuggling heroin. However, aviation historian William M. Leary argues that this portrayal is largely unfounded. The movie’s negative depiction has unfairly tarnished Air America’s public image.
Bipartisan Support for Legislation
Grothman’s legislation has garnered bipartisan support, with 35 House members co-sponsoring the bill. Sen. Rubio, the vice chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, introduced the Senate version of the bill alongside Sen. Mark Warner, the committee’s chair.
Sen. Warner expressed pride in introducing the legislation, emphasizing the need to provide benefits and recognition to Air America employees for their courage during the U.S. war effort in Vietnam and Southeast Asia.
