Veterans and their families spent their Friday afternoon sharing stories over coffee and cookies to commemorate National Vietnam War Veterans Day on March 29 at the Fort Cavazos Main Exchange.
The commemoration, which was facilitated by the management staff of Fort Cavazos’ Main Exchange, featured remarks from retired Maj. Gen. Ken Cox, former deputy commanding general of III Armored Corps, as well as Command Sgt. Maj. Calvin Hall, U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Cavazos command sergeant major, who spoke on the importance of honoring Vietnam veterans and their families.
“In 2012, our nation launched a 13-year commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War,” Hall said. “It’s primary purpose was to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families for all their service and sacrifice.
“I encourage everyone here,” he continued, “to please take a moment before you depart, to reach out and shake the hands of Vietnam veterans and their family members — they deserve it, and they deserve all the admiration.”
Hall was followed by Cox in thanking veterans of the Vietnam War.
“Those of us who serve today,” Cox said, “or has served since (the Vietnam War), know that we stand on the shoulders of giants. As we pay homage to our Vietnam veterans, we must never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
After the remarks and a rendition of “America the Beautiful” by the 1st Cavalry Division Band followed a pinning ceremony for all service members who were on active duty from Nov. 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, featuring lapel pins with a message that reads, “A grateful nation thanks and honors you.”
Pinned by Hall were veterans such as 74-year-old Arturo E. Alvarado and his grandson Gabriel Jones.
“It feels good to know the people are thanking us,” Alvarado said. “Before, we were the only ones that thanked each other — welcomed each other home.”
Also pinned was retired 1st Sgt. David Guthrie who attended the ceremony with his wife, Rebecca. Guthrie served two tours in Vietnam, first with the 604th Transportation Company, 14th Transportation Battalion, and second with the 178th Assault Support Helicopter Company, 14th Combat Aviation Battalion. Both their fathers served in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
“It’s very important to honor the Vietnam vets anytime they have any kind of a ceremony,” Rebecca said. “It was wonderful that they pinned everybody, regardless of what service they were in.”
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