Player Embed Code: Download Embed Share MLB "Golden Ticket" Naval History and Heritage Command July 10, 2018 | 2:52 On Sept. 6, 1968, Cmdr. Kenneth L. Coskey, flying an A-6A Intruder, was shot down over North Vietnam. Coskey spent five years in captivity before being released with nearly 600 other POWs in the spring of 1973 during Operation Homecoming. Coskey and his fellow POW's were honored with a special pass from Major League Baseball that gave each recipient and one guest exclusive admission to any Major League or Minor League baseball game. The "Golden Ticket" as it was known became a way for Vietnam POWs to reconnect with their families and rediscover their freedom through the enjoyment of America's national pastime.