Vietnam Veterans Certificate of Honor

The Georgia Department of Veterans Service, in conjunction with the 50th anniversary commemoration of the Vietnam War and in partnership with Gov. Nathan Deal, created the Vietnam War Certificate of Honor program.

On Wednesday, local veterans from this era received their certificates plus the U.S. Defense Department’s Commemorative Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin at the Turner-Ragan American Legion Post 594.

“Never forget our job to take care of veterans,” said Post commander Sam Price. Other guest speakers included Warner Robins Mayor Randy Toms, State Sen. Ross Tolleson and State Rep. Heath Clark.

Toms said he grew up during the “stark reality” of the Vietnam War, but he especially remembers how the servicemen were treated upon returning home.

“Nothing can undo it,” he said about their suffering. “You made our nation great. You are a part of history.”

The Mayor went on to say that those who returned from the war zone brought solace to the families of those who did not return, but they received none of their own. He said he’s glad to see a rethinking of that attitude today.

“Thank you for your patience and for standing with us,” said Toms. “Remain vigilant and remember those who did not return. You answered the call for something a lot of people did not understand. You are true American patriots.”

Tolleson’s talk centered around togetherness, a message he wants to convey to those in Washington, D.C. He said every day he thinks of everyone before him who fought in war after war to give Americans a great life.

“This is a great nation,” said Tolleson. “We are all brothers and sisters. It’s important to care about each other. We can bring this nation together. Being positive is good, and working together for the betterment of our nation is good. Enjoy each other’s company. You are all my friends.”

Clark’s father served in the Air Force, and because of that his family moved to Warner Robins when he was 3. He won election to the Georgia House last year and currently works as a software engineer at Robins Air Force Base.

“Society has always had problems,” he said reflecting on all the recent tragic news. He went on to say those who served with valor allowed Americans to speak out, run for offices and have disagreements.

“You did it right,” said Clark, also taking the time to recognize the families of servicemen for their sacrifices.

A long list of names representing all four branches of the United States military received a certificate and pin, though not all were in attendance Wednesday.

HHJ News