Last Wednesday Fort Sam Houston hosted a 'Welcome Home' ceremony for Vietnam Vets who never got any sort of welcome at all. I was fortunate to be able to volunteer with the Military-Civilian Club ladies to assist in the event. Lots of veterans came and family members and friends along with them. It was a great day that warmed my heart. All the units at Fort Sam were represented on the Field.
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| Staff Post Parade Field |
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As people began to gather we volunteers worked to get them to their seats and to pass out flags, programs and souvenir medals.
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| Folks began to gather | | |
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I stood in back during colors so this is what I saw of everyone proudly saluting during the National Anthem.
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| National Anthem |
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One guy up in the stands held this flag designed to say 'thank you' to the troops. I have no idea if it is an official design but it did the job in any case!
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| Thank You Flag |
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After the requisite speeches and certificate bestowals all the active duty troops and civilian visitors lined up on each side of the street leading to the Quadrangle and we cheered all the Vets along the way. Many had tears in their eyes and I had goosebumps just being there. It was wonderful.
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| Cheers for the Vietnam Vets |
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At the Quadrangle there was a planned reception with guest books to be signed for a time capsule. I made doubly sure I got my name in there to mark the day!
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| Guest Book |
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I'm so grateful I get to participate in such events. Being a military spouse can be tough at times but events like this make it ALL worthwhile!!
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| Finally, a proper welcome home! |
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Blessings,
gk
Thanks for sharing this Geraldine! I get so choked up when I see items like this.
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