Letter to the Editor: Thanks Vietnam Veterans for attending ceremony in their honor

The New Kent Historic Commission would like to thank all of the Vietnam Era Veterans who came out on Sunday, Sept. 29, for our “Welcome Home, Vietnam Veterans” program at New Kent Middle School.

Each of the 52 veterans were awarded a National Vietnam War Commemoration pin by Clay Mountacastle, Director of the Virginia War Memorial, and presented with a handcrafted patriotic pillow by Diana Grogan in memory of her veteran husband.

Military service for each of the veterans were read aloud. Some included interesting details of their times in Vietnam. Many had been awarded Purple Hearts and Bronze Stars. What an honor to be in the presence of such heroes who served and sacrificed for our nation! And we must not forget the service of their families who waited at home.

Contributing to the program were retiring supervisor Ray Davis, veteran Ken Otey, and the New Kent Stagehands who provided musical performances. We tried to reach as many New Kent veterans as possible. The work was completed mostly by following up on word of mouth recommendations. We know that there are many other heroes out there. Thank you.

Events like this remind us that we live in a free nation because of the work of these veterans. We live our lives next door to neighbors who are quiet heroes.

Martha Martin
New Kent Historic Commission