Vietnam vets finally honored for their service
For at least some local Vietnam-era veterans, it did seem like it was better late than never.
A Congressional pinning ceremony in Port Orchard Oct. 19 recognized veterans who served between Nov. 1, 1955, and May 15, 1975.
Sue Laguana, who served in the Navy from 1974-96, said the ceremony was “a wonderful opportunity” and that recognitions like this continue to make a true difference. “There’s still some things that need to be done,” she said, “but it’s come a long way since the ‘60s and the ‘70s, so that’s very much appreciated.”
The Vietnam War remains infamous for the way veterans were treated in the years following the controversial war. Both supporters and opponents of the war mistreated veterans for a variety of reasons, causing additional pain to those who served, along with the physical and emotional toil many already endured in Vietnam.
Meyers reflected on that time period after Vietnam, saying “people at the time had forgotten the cost we paid for freedom.”
Each veteran invited to the Kitsap County Administration Building was recognized by name, along with the time they served and what branch of military they served in. Those in attendance took the time to clap for each veteran individually as they received their pins, followed by a standing ovation for the group as a whole.
Family members were also invited to accept the pins on behalf of veterans who died or were otherwise unable to attend. One individual, who did not speak to the media, picked a pin up for a veteran who died just one day before the ceremony. The pin was created as a way to recognize all veterans of this era, as all were called to serve and could not control where they were stationed.
U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer said that while history cannot be rewritten, the country can take the present to share its overdue thanks to these veterans. “The reality is that gratitude needs to come with more than words,” he said. “It needs to come with a commitment to future generations that future generations know your sacrifice and know your service to our country.”
By: Elisha Meyer
Source: Bainbridge Island Review