Giving credit where credit is due hasn’t always held true when it comes to honoring our Vietnam Veterans. This year, on March 29, Residential Hospice of Troy, MI collaborated with the Michigan Veterans Homes at Chesterfield Township (MVH) to recognize and express thanks to over 80 Veterans who served and were denied a proper welcome when they returned home over 40 years ago. Vietnam Veterans represent the largest service era cohort of American Veterans. And yet, they are often the least celebrated and honored of all our military servicemen and women who, regardless of their personal feelings or family commitments, joined the service and selflessly served our nation.
Between the opening flag ceremony by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 Macomb County Honor Guard and the closing 21-gun salute, Vietnam Veterans were individually recognized at Residential Hospice’s event with Certificates of Honor, Vietnam Veteran lapel pins, handcrafted patriotic key chains and quilt squares, and a heartfelt handshake and “Welcome home!” from staff and family members.
Chaplain Major Brian Webb from the Department of Health and Human Services reflected on the importance of recognizing our Vietnam Veterans. “As an Army Chaplain, we serve to nurture the living, care for the wounded, and honor the dead. On this Vietnam War Veterans Day, we are proud to recognize the sacrifices of these great men and women,” said Webb. Music therapists led the group in patriotic songs, and those in attendance joined in reciting Prayers of Gratitude and Honor and the Beatitudes for American Service Men and Women. A cake and coffee reception following the ceremony allowed for extra time to thank all the Veterans in attendance for their service to our nation.
A fitting conclusion to this memorable afternoon came when a processional Walk of Honor was given to a Vietnam Veteran who had died earlier that morning. Residents, staff, and family members held a space of sacred silence as the gurney, draped with an American flag, was wheeled through the corridor and given a final farewell salute by all in attendance. Tears flowed freely from the MVH staff who had come to know and love this Veteran, and hearts were stirred by this gesture of honor that accompanied their departed comrade.
The privilege of participating in a Vietnam War Veterans Day Event cannot be overstated. Each person who served during this era earned and rightly deserves our profound thanks. As a partner of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, Residential Hospice, is proud to be a part of special events like this that recognize and thank our Vietnam Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. It is a privilege to care for our nation’s heroes.
