Community gathers to honor Vietnam Veterans

Clarion Top News

Thursday, 04 April 2024 07:54

Last Friday, National Vietnam Veterans Day, the community gathered at Veterans Memorial Park of Jackson County (VMPJC) to pay heartfelt tribute to the brave souls who served in the Vietnam War. Amidst the green expanse of the park, members of the Patriots Guard meticulously placed American flags. The stars and stripes stood as a symbol of honor, resilience and the unbreakable bond between veterans and their nation.

Visitors enjoyed a reception hosted by the VFW Post 6073 Auxiliary before gathering at Monument Circle for the sunset commemoration ceremony.

VMPJC President Jim Olyniec led the commemoration ceremony along with VFW State and Post 6073 Chaplain, Raymond Brandon. This was followed by a stirring performance of the National Anthem by the Fortner Brothers 4 Christ.

VMPJC Vice-President Jim Blackburn spoke about the experiences of being a Vietnam Veteran, emphasizing that their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to our nation deserve our deepest gratitude and invited the Vietnam Veterans to step forward and be recognized.

As the Vietnam Veterans took center stage, each step they took was a tribute to fallen comrades and a testament to their enduring camaraderie.

Family members of Vietnam Veterans were asked to stand and be recognized. The Vietnam Veterans invited all veterans present to stand with them at the Memorial. TAPS began to play as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the gathering of a community that stands united. In the twilight, we vowed never to forget the sacrifices made by these brave men and women who wear the uniform of the armed forces. The echoes of the national anthem lingered, a reminder that freedom came at a cost, one paid by those who wore the uniform with pride.

During the Vietnam War, America lost over 58,000 American troops. 47,434 of those troops died hostile deaths. 1,208 troops were from Alabama and twenty seven of those were residents of Jackson County.

Because the war was not popular with most American’s many troops returning from fighting the gruesome Vietnam War were never welcomed home and were made to feel ashamed. Learn more at www.vmpjc.com.

National Vietnam War Veterans Day is observed on March 29 each year. It is a day when Americans come together to express gratitude and honor Vietnam veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice.

Please make plans to be with us next year on March 29th, 2025, at Veterans Memorial Park of Jackson County to commemorate National Vietnam Veterans Day.