An event to honor Vietnam War veterans for the 50th anniversary of the end of the conflict will be held Saturday in St. Joseph.
Speaking to county commissioners this week, Veterans Services Director Maureen Adams said the ceremony will be at the Vietnam Memorial on the bluff in St. Joseph starting at 10 a.m. There will be a pinning ceremony for the veterans on hand. She said each veteran will get a special pin kit.
“In addition to the Vietnam pin, they’re going to get a challenge coin from our office,” Adams said. “They’re going to get the symbolism of the pin, and then we had some kids in the community do some welcome home cards for them. So they’re all going to get that.”
Adams said there will also be a musical performance and guest speakers.
“Our speakers are going to be Joey Andrews, Brad Paquette, and Congressman Huizenga.”
Adams says Berrien County has about 2,000 Vietnam veterans, and so far, more than 50 have registered to be present for the ceremony. She invited the entire community to come out and honor those who served in one of America’s most difficult wars. Also, Adams says the spouses of deceased Vietnam veterans are invited.
Adams plans to have a tent ready to go, just in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.
