Edmee CR Hasler
Contributing writer
Approximately 10 Vietnam veterans were honored with pins during the National Vietnam War Veterans Day event on April 6, which took place at the American Legion Post 3 in Salem. The ceremony commenced with the rendition of the National Anthem and opening remarks delivered by Fred Fralin, Chaplain Evan Spencer, and Councilman Bill Jones. Among the distinguished speakers were Jamees Secrist, Keith Young, Benjamin Bryant, and John Miller. Lieutenant Haston from the Salem Police Department performed TAPS.
Jim Secrist, a guest speaker and former Marine Corps member who completed two tours in Vietnam, shared inspiring tales of bravery and perseverance. The event commemorated March 29, 1973, marking the final withdrawal of troops from Vietnam.
Reflecting on the significance of receiving the pin, Andre Peery, one of the recipients, expressed, “What it means to me, not only just to me, but to all these veterans, it was disheartening how people treated us. We weren’t perceived as being in the winning war. It means to take a moment and recognize that the war happened, these veterans served well, and they served their country well.”
