Vietnam Veterans honored during ceremony at State Capitol
Hundreds gathered on Friday, March 28, at the Arkansas State Capitol to pay tribute to Vietnam Veterans while observing the 50th anniversary of the end of the war.
Vietnam Veterans and those in attendance render honors during the National Anthem
The event featured opening remarks from ADVA Secretary Robert Ator II, a keynote speech from Arkansas State Senator Dave Wallace, and closing remarks from Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System Medical Director Dr. Michael Moore.
“When I think of Vietnam Veterans, my first thought goes to my father. He was an officer and an Air Force pilot during the Vietnam War. Make no mistake about it - my dad is unequivocally my hero. When I think about the things he built in his life, it’s reflective amongst all Vietnam Veterans,” Ator said. “The country we live in today is a reflection of your dedication to service and the ideals of being an American, and that is truly a blessing,” Ator said.
ADVA Secretary Robert Ator II delivers opening remarks to Vietnam Veterans during the ceremony.
State Senator Dave Wallace was decorated for heroism on seven occasions while flying Cobra attack helicopters in an Air Cavalry Troop. His helicopter was shot down twice. For his actions, Senator Wallace was awarded the Bronze Star, the Legion of Merit, three Distinguished Flying Crosses, an Air Medal for Valor, and three Vietnamese Crosses of Gallantry.
State Senator David Wallace, a decorated Vietnam War veteran, delivers the keynote speech
“Someone once said that ‘freedom isn’t free’ and someone has to pay that price for the freedom for the rest of us. We who are left behind must always remember and carry forth their names, and we must always remind others and our nation of the sacrifices they have made,” Wallace said.
Out of the 72,639 Arkansans that served in Vietnam, 592 service members never returned. 58,000 Americans were killed in action nationwide.
Many of those who served in Vietnam did not receive a warm welcome home after their service in the war. The ceremony was intended to observe the 50-year end of the Vietnam War and offer a lasting and fitting service to those who served.
“The memories of Vietnam never go away. Certain things that happened over there just don’t go away, said Air Force veteran Larry Williams of East End. “I come to these events for the healing,” Williams added.
Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System Medical Director Dr. Michael Moore thanked all veterans in attendance.
“Whether you’ve been deployed in harm’s way while watching your buddies - or they’ve watched over you or training at home, you’ve sacrificed,” Moore said. “Understanding the true cost of war is not measured in dollars and cents but in lives.”
Dr. Michael Moore, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare Medical Director, delivers closing remarks during the ceremony
Vietnam War veterans were provided a commemorative pin to recognize their service.
The Arkansas Army National Guard provided a color guard detail for the Presentation of Colors. Leigh Ann Davis performed the national anthem, and Tironica Hamilton provided sign language translation.
Members of the Arkansas Army National Guard perform the Presentation of Colors
The Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs organized the event in partnership with the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System.
Story by Mark Woodall