A Thank You & Welcome Home
Gerard Pageau, US Navy Sonar Technician and Gary Gahan, US Marines, Field Radio Operator both served in Vietnam. Now brothers in-law married to sisters and living next door to each other celebrated their recognition arm in arm. As Gary shared, "Navy appreciating the Marines."
Fifty years ago, as the Vietnam War drew to a close, many U.S. troops returned home after serving our country in an exceptionally difficult and unpopular war. But instead of being greeted with waving flags, crowds happily cheering, and “Welcome Home” banners, most were confronted with angry protesters, insults, and even violence. Many were encouraged to wear civilian clothes, and were told not to wear their uniforms.
It was a heartbreaking and devastating shock to the soldiers who had put their lives on the line for our country. Although many were happy to be reunited with family, they never received the proper welcome and respect they deserved - and this has weighed heavily on the minds of 7.2 million living Vietnam Veterans and their families for the past 50 years.
This year, the VA decided a proper Welcome Home was long overdue for these Veterans. At Manchester VA Medical Center and many others across the nation, VA organizations have become Commemorative Partners to truly "Welcome Home" and recognize our Vietnam Veterans for their sacrifice - and to extend our thanks, appreciation, and respect in a way that should have been done all those years ago.
Welcome Home Events began across the VA earlier this year, and due to the overwhelmingly positive response, more events are taking place at many local VAs with the goal of touching as many Vietnam Veterans as possible. The Veterans are pinned and wear their uniforms proudly while receiving warm, heartfelt appreciation.
Although "thank you" will never be enough for what our Vietnam Veterans have done, our nation is - and always will be - eternally grateful for your sacrifice. The VA Health System is honored to provide Vietnam Veterans - and all of our Veterans - with exceptional medical care every day.
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From Veterans Healthy Living, Summer 2016 issue
