Three Rivers College, in conjunction with the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1056, on Friday hosted a Vietnam War Veteran Day Ceremony.
It signifies the removal of the last combat troops from Vietnam on March 29, 1973, according to retired Lt. Cmdr. Larry Kimbrow, president of the local VVA Chapter 1056.
The Vietnam War was a controversial and divisive conflict, but the soldiers fighting that battle were doing their due diligence to serve their country, speakers shared. Fighting with courage and dedication, the soldiers endured unimaginable hardships and horrors. Yet upon their return home, they were not met with praise and respect, but instead with hostility and contempt. A lack of support and recognition that would have a lasting impact on the lives of veterans.
Keynote speaker, retired Col. Douglas C. Rose Jr., came from a military background, having a grandfather, father and brother who both served in the military.
“I served 33 years as an Army officer and as an enlisted soldier,” said Rose.
Rose spoke about the importance of access to mental health services for veterans.
“There’s a lot of things going on with mental health and military men and women at the VA now,” he said.
According to the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, approximately 13% of the adult homeless population are veterans, 51% of those homeless veterans have disabilities and nearly half or more were diagnosed with some form of mental disorder.
Rose went on to speak of how he had lost his brother, who had also served in the military, to suicide.
“Look for those signs. You don’t always pick it up. My brother took his life, he had served 20 years. I had seen signs my entire life, but didn’t pick up a sign from someone that close to me, so sometimes you have to take a step back, just ask the questions,” he said.
“What are you doing to make a difference – if everyone would reach down and just pull another up,” added Rose.
U.S. Marine Corps veteran Glenn Monehan delivered the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the Armed Forces Medley, sung by U.S. Air Force veteran James Todd.
Poplar Bluff High School Choir Director Josh Allen led the PBHS Choir in its rendition of the national anthem and “God Bless the USA,” which Kimbrow described as emotionally moving. Missouri State Society Daughters of the American Revolution Veterans Chairman Rosalie McGough, who traveled from Washington, Missouri, presented a flag and certificate for the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the Vietnam War to the VVA Chapter 1056. It recognized them as an honorary partner of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemorations Department of Defense.
“This distinction is reserved for and confirmed upon organizations consisting solely of those who bore the battle or bore the loss of the Vietnam War. A grateful nation honors your collective service and sacrifices, welcome home,” said McGough.
DAR Poplar Bluff Chapter Regent Margaret Shackleford said she had a dedicated group of volunteers who worked diligently to create a quilt of valor. “We worked from 9 until noon every day. This is dedication in this group of 4H kids.”
Marine Corps veteran Norman Magill said he was honored to be the recipient of the quilt of valor.
Kimbrow also recognized the valor of Air Force Col. James “Jimmy” Metz, who was shot down and held as a prisoner of war. His remains were finally returned to his family in 1977. Ricardo Rios, who served as a combat medic in the army, was also honored.
“The actions of both soldiers saved the lives of many,” said Kimbrow.