Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Juan Jimenez shakes hands with Vietnam veteran Charles Smith, a retired Marine, and Smith’s wife, Norma.

Garrison Commander Col. Glenn Mellor thanks Vietnam veterans on behalf of today’s Soldiers

About 20 Vietnam veterans and their spouses gathered in the Exchange food court March 29 for a midmorning ceremony in their honor.

The Exchange and Commissary honored their service and sacrifice on National Vietnam War Veterans Day.

“When you were called to go to Vietnam, you stepped forward to do so,” Garrison Commander Col. Glenn Mellor said.

The veterans received pins, gift bags, snacks and giveaways including gift cards, coolers, chairs and a golf bag.

“The Redstone Exchange would like to thank, recognize and honor United States veterans who served in the Vietnam era (Nov. 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975),” Chantel Scott, Exchange store manager, said.

“I thank you all for your service,” Sam Somerville, Commissary store director and a Vietnam-era veteran, said.