U.S. Envoy Weds Saigon-Born Australian Official in Vietnam
The groom looked nervous; the bride was radiant. At the end of the ceremony Friday, they clutched marriage papers symbolizing a reconciliation that transcends even their own happy union.
The groom, U.S. Ambassador Douglas “Pete” Peterson, spent six years as a POW during the Vietnam War. His bride, Vi Le, was born in Saigon and raised in Australia; she now serves as that country’s senior trade commissioner to Vietnam.
Their courtship captured the imagination of the Vietnamese public as a symbol of the improving U.S.-Vietnam ties 23 years after the war ended.
Friday’s civil ceremony, attended by 200 guests, was to be followed by a Roman Catholic church service this afternoon. The nuptials were split to allow more people to attend.
Michael Peterson flew in from Florida to serve as best man for his widower father.
The groom, 62, wore a black tuxedo with a yellow bow tie. The bride, 41, wore an ivory ankle-length dress and pearls.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
