News Summary
On March 29, Yorktown gathered to honor Vietnam War veterans with heartfelt ceremonies at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4639. The event featured touching speeches, reflections, and recognitions from distinguished guests, emphasizing the sacrifices made by those who served. Multiple veterans shared stories of valor, commemorating lost comrades and celebrating the spirit of resilience within the community. The event concluded with a proclamation and a moment of silence, ensuring that the legacies of these heroes are forever remembered.
Yorktown Naval Station Holds Special Ceremony to Celebrate Vietnam War Veterans
This past Saturday, March 29, the vibrant community of Yorktown came together to honor the brave men and women who fought in the Vietnam War. Sailors from the Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, alongside veterans and their families, gathered at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4639 in nearby Williamsburg to observe National Vietnam War Veterans Day. It was a heartfelt occasion that recognized the sacrifices made during one of the most controversial times in U.S. history.
A Day of Remembrance and Reflection
As nearly 50 Vietnam War veterans attended, the ceremony kicked off with a touching rendition of the National Anthem. It was a moment that encapsulated the immense pride and patriotism that filled the air. President of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 957, Tom Monahan, warmly welcomed everyone and set the tone for a day dedicated to remembering the experiences of those who served.
The invocation was led by Rev. Chuck Mullaly, who is also a proud Vietnam veteran. His heartfelt words provided a moment of reflection as attendees contemplated the sacrifices and determination of their fellow service members.
Honored Guests and Heartfelt Speeches
The ceremony featured remarks from several distinguished guests, including Rep. Rob Wittman, representing Virginia’s 1st Congressional District, and Jim Icenhour, a member of the James City County Board of Supervisors. Del. Amanda Batten, who represents the 71st District in Virginia, also graced the event, showcasing her support as a member of VFW Post 4639’s Auxiliary.
Lieutenant Junior Grade Sayd Hussain, serving as the Construction Manager at the installation, highlighted the significant role played by the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He shared impressive statistics, emphasizing that over 1.8 million sailors served throughout the conflict, with more than 220,000 deployed to Southeast Asia. Lt. Hussain spoke about the Navy’s vital contributions, particularly in commanding the seas and providing necessary logistics and mobility.
Honoring the Fallen and Celebrating the Heroes
A memorable part of the ceremony was the shared nostalgia of many attendees, who fondly recalled USO tours featuring comedian Bob Hope. He brought laughter and joy to the troops during the war, leaving behind a legacy that includes the maritime ship USNS Bob Hope, which served from 1997 to 2022. A solemn mention was made of the heavy toll on sailors, noting that over 1,600 sailors lost their lives, including 85 Seabees, who were essential in building and maintaining key infrastructure.
Listeners were moved as they learned about Steelworker Second Class William Hoover, who became the first Seabee killed in action and was awarded the Bronze Star for his bravery. Equally inspiring was the story of Construction Mechanic Third Class Marvin Shields, who earned the Medal of Honor for his courageous actions in combat. The USS Marvin Shields (FF-1066) was commissioned in 1971 to honor his legacy.
A Proclamation and Tokens of Appreciation
The event was enhanced by the presence of Virginia Department of Veterans Services Deputy Commissioner Stephen Combs, who read a proclamation from Governor Glenn Youngkin. To further acknowledge the contributions of Vietnam War veterans, special certificates and commemorative pins were presented by Rep. Wittman and Art Garrison from Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 957.
The ceremony concluded with the emotional sound of taps filling the air, followed by a moment of silence. It was a poignant reflection on the bravery and sacrifices of those who served in the Vietnam War. This event not only commemorated the past but also fostered a sense of kinship amongst vets, families, and the Yorktown community.
As part of a nationwide observance, established by the Vietnam War Recognition Act of 2017, March 29 stands as a day of remembrance for all Vietnam War veterans. It’s a day to honor the legacy of those who served and to ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten.
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Additional Resources
- WYDaily: Weapons Station Yorktown Honors Vietnam War Veterans
- Halston Media: Yorktown Remembers and Honors Vietnam Veterans
- Mid Hudson News: Slater Honors Vietnam Veterans at Albany Event
- ABC News 4: Veterans Reunite on USS Yorktown
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vietnam War
