Throughout history, few events have caused as much division in our nation as the war in Vietnam. In the 50-year span between 1956 and 2006, some 58,000 people died as a direct result of the conflict, including more than 700 West Virginians.
On March 28, 2017, the “Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act” was signed into law by former President Donald Trump. “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day” is now commonly celebrated in most states around this date. And in 2021, West Virginia is proudly joining in the celebration to honor our heroes.
In a social media post dated Wednesday, March 17, Cindie Harper, regent of the Woodburn Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), said, “I am happy to report that [West Virginia] Governor [Jim] Justice has obliged my request for a Proclamation recognizing March 29, 2021 as Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Day.”
As stated in the governor’s proclamation, “Whereas, since their return, these veterans have contributed tremendously to their communities, states and nation, in an effort to advance the American ideals and goals for which they fought, and;
Whereas, the citizens of West Virginia must never forget the pain and suffering that lingers today for the men and women who fought with honor and distinction, in the name of freedom and democracy for all.”
On Sunday, March 28, the Woodburn Chapter of the National Society of the NSDAR will be holding a “commemoration ceremony to thank and honor our Vietnam War veterans” at Johnson Chapel UMC in Morgantown. The event will begin at 2:30 p.m.
The governor’s proclamation, as well as the memorial event, are particularly meaningful to Harper, as several family members, including her father, served in the war.
In an especially emotional post on social media, Harper said, “I’ve been planning this Vietnam Veterans Recognition Ceremony and it has really hit home. As I find myself writing the speech, I fear that I will not be able to hold it together during the ceremony. All I keep thinking is that I wish my dad was here. I’m so honored to be able to recognize the Vietnam veterans, but I am afraid I will be very emotional and I’m not sure what to do with that because I’m not a very emotional person. All I know is that I’m going to try my best. He [Harper’s father] has been giving me lots of signs that he is around…but I sure do miss him.
I know most of you [] will not show up for a ceremony or thank a Vietnam War veteran on Vietnam Veteran Recognition Day, [] but I hope you think twice. It doesn’t take much to show support.”
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