by David J. Santistevan Jr.
TRINIDAD — Before a crowd of more than 450 fellow veterans of all wars, the Department of Defense and the Daughters of the American Revolution honored, thanked, and welcomed home almost 100 Vietnam veterans in a presention of pins during the 15th Annual Veterans Day Dinner on November 11, 2015, hosted by the Las Animas County Veterans Memorial Committee.
In 2008, the National Defense Authorization Act authorized the Secretary of Defense to conduct a program to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, to coordinate, support, and facilitate programs and activities of the federal, state and local governments and other persons and organizations in commemoration of the Vietnam War. In 2015, the Department of Defense initiated a 50th Anniversary Commemoration to honor all Vietnam veterans with a special lapel pin to thank and honor those who served during that difficult era.
A proclamation was signed by the President of United States Barack Obama on May 25th stating, “As a grateful nation, we honor more than 58,000 who sacrificed all they had and all they would ever know. We draw inspiration from these heroes, who suffered, who were wounded, and still carry the scars of war seen and unseen. We pledge as a nation to do everything to bring them home. In recognition of a chapter in our nation’s history that must never be forgotten, let us renew our sacred commitment to those who answered the call in Vietnam.
While no words will ever be fully worthy of their service, nor any honor truly befitting their call of duty with courage and valor, let us renew our commitment to the fullest; let us strive to live up to their example by showing Vietnam veterans, their families, and all who have served, the fullest respect and support of a grateful nation.”
“Thank you. We are all proud to have served our country. We just wanted to be welcomed home.” said Navy Chief Petty Officer Joseph B. Van Loon Sr. He added, holding back tears, “This is an honor. That time was very difficult for all Vietnam War Veterans.”
Ken Gegleman added, “This is great. We, all who served in this war, deserve to be honored. Thank you!” Gwen Sciacca was the area spokesperson for the DOD.
For more information on this event, go to www.vietnamwar5oth.com
