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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

EndNotes

Welcome home, Vietnam vets!

A rainbow from a morning thunderstorm paints the background for an American flag in Lawrence, Kan., Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011. (Orlin Wagner / Associated Press)
A rainbow from a morning thunderstorm paints the background for an American flag in Lawrence, Kan., Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011. (Orlin Wagner / Associated Press)

When many soldiers came home from Vietnam, they came home in groups of two or three. Often they were not given the respect or thanks they deserved.

Next week, Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Western Washington will honor those soldiers from Vietnam. The base will host a thank you homecoming to Vietnam veterans from all branches of the service.

“The four-hour celebration is intended to look a lot like the military ceremonies Vietnam veterans might remember from their time in the service. It’ll include a parade in formations led by military flags, a pinning ceremony for veterans to receive recognition for their service, and remarks from decorated Vietnam veteran retired Gen. Barry McCaffrey.”

And for all those people who served in Vietnam, who cannot attend: the country thanks you for your courage, your dedication and your service to our country.



Spokesman-Review features writer Rebecca Nappi, along with writer Catherine Johnston of Olympia, Wash., discuss here issues facing aging boomers, seniors and those experiencing serious illness, dying, death and other forms of loss.