Just short of five decades after the end of the Vietnam War, Michigan honored Vietnam veterans with events across the state. In Kentwood, a veterans group celebrated the 51st anniversary of when the last U.S. combat troops left Vietnam with the hosting of a lunch and dinner event, as reported by WZZM 13. Hero's Corner and Shero's Corner welcomed veterans, including ones like Thornell Billingslea who was wounded in action, to honor their service and sacrifice. "Some sacrificed their lives. Some of us came home wounded, either physically or mentally. Some both. Why would we forget that? That's the reason we have a free country. We can't forget any of that. That's why this is important," Billingslea told WZZM 13.
In Grand Rapids, another tribute took place on Thursday where 45 veterans received a lapel pin featuring an eagle symbolizing courage, honor, and dedicated service. The back of the pin bore the inscription "a grateful nation thanks and honors you." Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency Director Brian Love personally handed out the pins and commemorative letters to Navy, Army, Marine Corps, and Air Force veterans at the Grand Rapids veterans home. "You endured hardships, and you were willing risk your life to maintain our freedom," Love stated in an interview with WOODTV. Marine Corps vet Michael Wakefield expressed the pride he felt during the tribute saying, "Proud to be an American."
These events not only commemorate the veterans' valiant efforts during the war but also serve as a reminder that for many veterans, the war returned home with them. "When they came home, the struggle continued for them," Brian Love remarked, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by many service members post-conflict. Love, whose own family includes Vietnam veterans, advocated for recognizing the respect and honor these veterans deserve, which helps them to open up about their experiences serving the nation.
The recognition extends to Ohio, where Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 10 teamed up with Vietnam Veterans of Southwest Ohio for their third annual luncheon in recognition of National Vietnam War Veterans Day. "We felt a little bit left behind or disrespected or ignored back in the day," Charlie Doan of Vietnam Veterans of Southwest Ohio told WLWT. Such events are a semblance of homecoming for those who did not receive one upon their return decades ago and serve to unite veterans as a family, shared Doan.
On March 29, nearly a half-century after a date that marked both an end and a beginning, America took the time to thank, remember, and reach out to those who once served in a distant war, as much as it reaches within to recover from its own deep wounds. Those looking to participate or seek assistance from Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 10 may reach out via mail, phone, or email as noted in their appearance with WLWT.
