ROCK HILL, S.C. - The Department of Veterans Affairs Columbia VA Regional Office, in conjunction with the South Carolina National Guard Service Member and Family Care Directorate, held a Vietnam War 50th Commemoration Ceremony to thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War March 29, 2016.
Approximately 250 participants were in attendance at the ceremony, which was preceded by a South Carolina National Guard sponsored Military Career and Resource Fair, as well as a VA Listening and Claims Workshop with Veteran’s Affairs Executive Leadership and Claims Representatives.
Highlights included an Honor Guard by the Northwestern High School Junior ROTC, the National Anthem presented by vocalist Jennifer Wolff, an Honoring the Fallen presentation by retired U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Yolanda Lomax, and a commemorative speech by Leanne Weldin, director of the Columbia VA Regional Office.
“Today we are here to honor you, we are proud of you, and I thank you all for joining us in this special commemoration,” Weldin said.
U.S. Army Maj. Gen Robert E. Livingston, Jr., Adjutant General for South Carolina, offered remarks at the start of the ceremony.
“I wanted to personally thank you for the influence you’ve had on my life and the welfare of our country,” Livingston said. “Thank you for influencing history and for helping me to become the person I’ve become.”
At the conclusion of the event, a special ceremony was held in which the 50th Vietnam War Commemoration Pin was presented to all the Vietnam veterans in attendance. The phrase “A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You” is embossed on the back of the pin.