Just weeks before the 48th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, VFW Post 2278 and Hot Springs Elks Lodge No. 380 are partnering to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Elks Lodge, 132 Abbott Place.
Part of a nationwide program that will run every year from 2022 until 2025, the VFW hosted the ceremony last year, attracting 35 veterans. Meant to honor the service of any member who served from 1955-1975, the VFW decided to change the location to accommodate a larger crowd.
All service members are welcome, even those who served domestically, male or female, in any capacity.
"We want to get as many Vietnam veterans there as possible," Terry Daniell, Commander of Post 2278, said.
Families are welcome at the event, and anyone else who wishes to honor those connected to the Vietnam campaign, he said. Each member will be presented a lapel pin as a token of appreciation for their service. He noted if the spouse or family does not wish to pin the lapel, or if there is no spouse or family, he will do so.
Serving in Desert Storm, Daniell said when he returned from war, he received a hero's welcome -- a far cry from what many Vietnam vets experienced.
"It really was a moving ceremony last year, and I didn't realize how much it would matter to them," he said, noting many of the vets told him that for the first time it felt like they were welcomed home.
After the ceremony, the group will enjoy cake and punch while visiting with others who have served.
"It'll be a time of camaraderie for the Vietnam veterans," Daniell said.
The group will host the 50th Commemoration of the Vietnam War every year until 2025, hoping for the final year to be a more formal event.
Part of a national effort by Vietnam War Commemoration, over 1,000 events have taken place on and around March 29, National Vietnam War Veterans Day. To find out more, visit https://www.vietnamwar50th.com/.