Vietnam veterans to be recognized at Springfield ceremony

A Springfield event later this month will recognize those who served in the Vietnam War as part of a national celebration.

The Vietnam War Veterans Day of Remembrance will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 24, at the Clark County Memorial Veterans Park, said Randy Ark, a local veterans advocate who served in the Army during the Vietnam War.

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Clark County Commissioner Rick Lohnes, former commander of the Springfield Air National Guard Base, will be the keynote speaker. Ark and other Vietnam vets will also participate in the program, including a hat ceremony by the Grimes-Kohl VFW Post 1031 and the playing of taps.

Ark hopes to have as many veterans organization in attendance as possible to show their colors and flag, he said.

“I want to recognize all of the VFWs, American Legions, Vietnam Veterans of America and so forth,” Ark said. “I’d like to see them come and be a part of this.”

National Vietnam War Veterans Day is a U.S. holiday observed annually on March 29, recognizing veterans who served in the U.S. military during the Vietnam War. It began with a proclamation by President Barack Obama in 2012, Ark said.

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“It was a great testimony to Vietnam veterans and not only what they went through but what they had to endure when they came home,” Ark said.

A little bit of recognition can go a long way for veterans, Ark said.

“It means a lot and events like this mean a lot,” he said. “It shows you’re not forgotten about. I’d like to see an event like this for Korean War veterans, World War II veterans. It shows there’s people that care and appreciate what you did.”

National Trail Parks and Recreation District officials also will be on hand to discuss fundraising efforts at the Veterans Memorial Park, Ark said. About $380,000 remains to be raised as part of the $450,000 project to improve the park, officials said last month.

In 2015, a Dog Tag memorial was erected to honor the 63 Clark County residents who died in the Vietnam War.

The event on March 24 is free and open to the public, Ark said.

“Just come and show your support,” he said.

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HOW TO GO

What: Vietnam War Veterans Day of Remembrance

When: 10:30 a.m. March 24

Where: Clark County Veterans Memorial Park

Cost: The event is free and open to the public.

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