Words from Director/CEO Tom Shull: Exchange Needs Your Help in Honoring Vietnam Veterans
A Vietnam Veteran is pinned during last year’s commemorative ceremonies at Maxwell AFB, Ala.
***Please note: To ensure the safety of all shoppers and associates, the Exchange has postponed the Vietnam Veterans pinning events until further notice.
By Tom Shull
Director/CEO
As a Vietnam-era infantry platoon leader in 1974, many of the Soldiers I had the honor to serve with returned from Vietnam without the homecoming they so rightly deserved.
The Exchange, a participating partner of the 50th Anniversary Vietnam War Commemoration, is fully engaged in giving these heroes a special homecoming.
All Vietnam-era Veterans are invited to their local Exchange for a pinning ceremony on March 27, National Vietnam War Veterans Day.
Vietnam Veterans will receive a commemorative lapel pin as a lasting memento of our Nation’s thanks.
Many of these heroes may be unable to travel to their local Exchange to join us as we celebrate their service and sacrifice. Whether ill, home-bound or living in remote areas or assisted living residences, all deserve our thanks, too, and the Exchange needs your help in honoring their distinguished service.
With 85% of associates having a military connection, it’s likely you have Vietnam-era Veterans in your own family or social circle. Kindly consider consider taking a commemorative pin to them on behalf of a grateful Nation. These pins are available at no charge through our Exchanges or the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration’s website.
Our Vietnam Veterans made great sacrifices and served honorably. Please help the Exchange let them know they are not forgotten.
“These pins are available at no charge through our Exchanges” how do we get one of these pins to pass along?
Lori:
Thank you for writing to your Exchange Post. If you read all the way to the bottom of the story, you’ll see a link to the U.S. Vietnam War Veterans Commemoration website where you can get the pins.
Steve Smith
Editor, The Exchange Post
Steve:
I did read to the bottom and saw the website but was wondering how to get one through our Exchanges but if the only way to get one is through the website that is were we all shall go. Thank you
The article says, “Vietnam Era” Veterans…, yet the pin says “Vietnam War Veteran”, an important distinction. As an “Era” Vet, I have never pretended to have been In-country. I would not wear this pin, because I wasn’t in In-country. I do feel us Era Vets who we’re not In-country, are treated unfairly, by not being eligible for VA healthcare.
Mr. Boyum:
Thanks for writing to your Exchange Post. I really appreciate you taking the time to write us.
Steve Smith
Editor, The Exchange Post