TOMAH, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) – The Tomah VA Medical Center hosted a ceremony full of patriotism and thank-yous for those who served in the Vietnam War. VA Director Karen Long explains, “Our ceremony today is an opportunity for us to thank these individuals for their service and sacrifice. During the ceremony, we are able to pin our Vietnam veterans with a lapel pin. We’re also able to thank them for their service and welcome them home.”
Randy Drake was one of the many veterans in attendance who served in Vietnam in 1970 and 1971. Drake explains, “It’s just important to be recognized. For many years, no one recognized Vietnam vets. It was kind of lost in the wash. It’s great to be recognized finally. I’ve never been to a ceremony like this. It’s really important.”
Timothy Klevgard’s father served in Vietnam. He says it is important for every generation to learn about those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, “I worked in nursing homes with the veterans, just hearing their stories. That always a big thing for me is to listen to the stories they have to tell. Some people don’t understand what really happened.”
Long says even decades after the end of the war. They want everyone to show their appreciation to those who served in Vietnam. “Many of these Vietnam veterans didn’t receive the recognition that they deserved and didn’t have welcome home events. It truly is an honor to be able to recognize them, again, for their service and sacrifice.”
According to the VA, over 5 million Vietnam War Veterans are alive today. National Vietnam War Veterans Day is Saturday, March 29th.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX2548 & WIProud.
Read the full article here
