December 18, 2023—The Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Fort Leonard Wood Mid-Missouri Chapter honored the service and sacrifice of Vietnam-Era Veterans as well as their family members during a ceremony in Waynesville Friday. The Chapter is among organizations nationwide who honors veterans who served from Nov. 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, regardless of service location.
The ceremony was hosted by the AUSA Chapter and the City of Waynesville at The ARK Community Center with the Waynesville Rural Fire Protection District displaying a flag upon arrival and included remarks by Command Sgt. Maj. Ret., Rick Morris, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army-Missouri South, First Sgt. Ret., Sean Wilson, Mayor of Waynesville, and Brennon Willard, President of AUSA Fort Leonard Wood Mid-Missouri. Also in attendance was Missouri State Representative, Don Mayhew, and District Director for United States Senator Josh Hawley, Erin Engelmeyer.
The Waynesville High School Junior ROTC Cadets presented the colors and Boy Scout Troops 149, 150, and 202 lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
Each of the 80 veterans was presented with a certificate, a commemorative Vietnam Veteran lapel pin, provided in partnership with the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration as well as a plaque provided by the City of Waynesville.
Present during the ceremony were five members, Roger Layman, Chester Lennox, Bill Goldsmith, Phil Todd, and Glen Matlock, who served together with the 471st Engineer Company.
“He would have enjoyed the day.” Luge Hardman represented her husband, Paul Hardman, carrying a photo of him with her. She also received a certificate and spouse pin for her dedication to our country during the Vietnam War. “He served our country and I honor him today,” Luge said.
Command Sgt. Maj. Ret. Rick Morris encouraged all the veterans in attendance to tell their story. “You served at a time when it wasn’t easy,” he said. “You made a difference and we need your voice.”
The ceremony was also to recognize those service members who have lost their lives serving their country. Of the 2.7 million service members who fought in Vietnam, 58,000 were killed. “We take this day to pause and appreciate. Our generation has learned many lessons from yours—the first of those is gratitude,” Morris said.
At the end of the ceremony, each veteran’s name was called. Brennon Willard and Command Sgt. Maj. Ret. Rick Morris took turns pinning the lapel pins on the veterans.
During Friday’s event, the AUSA Chapter pinned their 500th Vietnam-Era Veteran, George (Bill) Sisti. Since 2021, the Chapter has honored Vietnam Veterans in formal ceremonies, at local coffee shops, and by going to veterans in their homes. “Many of our Vietnam veterans did not receive the gratitude and recognition they deserved,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Ret. Freddie Brock, Chapter Vice President of NCO and Soldier Programs. “Today we have the privilege of properly saying thank you.”
Following the ceremony, veterans were encouraged to stay and engage in fellowship. Refreshments were provided for all in attendance by United Veteran Benefits Agency.