A Rolling Tribute to Vietnam Veterans: ‘Thank You for Your Service’
In recognition of National Vietnam War Veterans Day on March 29, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service is rolling out three tractor-trailer trucks with a message to those that served in the war: “Thank you for your service to our nation.”
The 53-foot rolling billboards include the paint scheme of vehicles from the Vietnam War, the word “Vietnam” superimposed over an American flag and a call-out to National Vietnam War Veterans Day.
“The American public didn’t understand the sacrifices of Vietnam War Veterans, and these heroes often didn’t receive the homecoming they deserved,” said Exchange Director/CEO Tom Shull, a Vietnam-era Veteran. “These trucks allow the Exchange to help properly acknowledge our Vietnam Veterans’ distinguished service.”
Exchange Corporate Communication Specialist Mario Baltierra designed the wraps to resemble vehicles used during the Vietnam War era.
“We wanted to make a connection to the Warfighters that served during that era and recognize their patriotism with the paint scheme from that time and the symbol of the draped American flag,” Baltierra said. “Most important, we wanted to thank them for their service.”
The Exchange is a 50th Anniversary Vietnam War Commemorative Partner, planning and conducting events and activities that recognize the service, valor and sacrifice of Vietnam Veterans and their families in conjunction with the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration. The truck wraps support the Exchange’s longstanding commitment to the Commemoration.
Air Force Veteran Jim Williamson, who flew B-52s in Vietnam and is aworkforce business analyst at the Exchange’s headquarters in Dallas, appreciates the recognition.
“The trucks are an amazing tribute to Vietnam War Veterans and their families,” Williamson said. “I hope it reminds Americans to remember all their Veterans and MIAs.”
The three trucks will transport goods from the Exchange’s continental U.S. distribution centers to service members throughout the country. The West Coast Distribution Center in Manteca, Calif.; Dan Daniel Distribution Center in Newport News, Va.; and the Waco Distribution Center will each have a truck in service on their standard delivery routes.
