Search News Archives
Filter News Articles
Liberty partners with national group to honor local Vietnam veterans
March 27, 2015 : By Office of Communications & Public Engagement
Liberty University joined veteran organizations in the community to pay special honor to local Vietnam War veterans during the 50th anniversary of the beginning of the American ground war in Vietnam on Friday, March 27, in downtown Lynchburg.
The event was held at Monument Terrace, a memorial that celebrates local heroes who served during World War I, World War II, the Spanish-American War, the Civil War, the Korean War, Vietnam, and present-day wars. Since November 2001, military veterans have held a gathering each Friday at noon.
During Friday’s service, veterans sang the “Star Spangled Banner,” read various patriotic poems, and heard the playing of “Taps.”
Liberty began a partnership with The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration this semester. The commemoration program began nationally in 2008 with the National Defense Authorization Act, which authorized the Secretary of Defense to conduct a program to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, the goal being to enlist the help of federal, state, and local governments, as well as other persons and organizations to commemorate the sacrifices of those who served in the war.
Emily Foutz, director of Liberty’s Office of Military Affairs, said that those returning from the Vietnam War did not receive the warm welcome home that our troops enjoy today.
“Liberty University has a long history of supporting our nation’s military. On this 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War, we want to stop and honor the veterans who sacrificed so much for our country,” she said. “It is an honor and a privilege to join the Vietnam War Commemoration to host events that give our veterans the recognition they deserve.”
The Office of Military Affairs will also host Military Family Fun Day at Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre on Saturday, March 28, as well as a Flames Baseball Military Appreciation Day Game on Sunday, April 12, that will pay special honor to veterans. These events are free for service members and veterans.
