"I think it has gone very well for the last few years. Vietnam has opened up a lot and given us a lot of information. Therefore, we have been averaging getting some bodies back every year. As long as the Vietnamese people continue to work with us, we will certainly continue to work with them," Mr Kurpius told Vietnam News Agency reporter.

"Vietnam and the US have actively exchanged information relating to the MIA issue. If we know information on where Vietnamese soldiers were buried, if we get that information from VFW's members, we give it to the Vietnamese people. They in turn help us out. During this visit, we have some information to give the Vietnamese side on some sites and we hope that they will also have some information to give to us," he said.

Regarding the VFW's humanitarian projects in Vietnam, Mr Kurpius said "the VFW members have set up a Friendship Village in Ho Chi Minh City, built libraries and sent wheelchairs and prosthetics." " I imagine that they will continue to do so".

The American veteran was impressed with changes that have taken place in the country over the past year. "I think Vietnam is moving ahead very nicely. I see all the construction going on. It looks like the people are moving up and the standard of living is getting better. The first time I came to Vietnam was 25 years ago. The economic changes in the cities are very big. It's like a different country. These cities are like the other cities in Southeast Asia."

Mr Kurpius is leading a four-member VFW delegation on a visit to Vietnam. During their stay, the delegation will contact with the Vietnam War Veterans Association in order to build a stronger relationship and work together.