National Vietnam War Veterans Day ceremony held in Enola
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) – March 29th marked National Vietnam War Veterans Day. It was first observed in 2012 honoring U.S. Military members who served from 1955-1975 during the Vietnam War.
“The Vietnam War was unlike any other war we fought; it was the only war where American Citizens attacked their own warriors. The Vietnam War pitted Americans against Americans; it divided our country like it hadn’t been divided since the Civil War,” said Retired Colonel Charles Bechtel.
On Saturday, the Hampden Township Veterans Recognition Committee held a ceremony for those who served during the Vietnam War.
More than a dozen veterans and their loved ones gathered at the Hampden Township Veterans Park in Enola to honor our Vietnam Era Veterans.
“Unfortunately, we have a separate Veterans Day for that and the only reason we do is because the Vietnam Vets weren’t treated very well. I personally know two men from Lancaster County who were spit on by their countrymen,” said Bechtel.
Colonel Charles Bechtel was drafted for the Vietnam War in 1966 and served our country for 36 years.
“I think all the Vietnam Vets are very proud of their service. They went and served their country just like their fathers and forefathers did, so it was really, what happens is people took the war, they were unhappy with the Vietnam war and made the mistake of taking it out on the warriors and of course soldiers don’t decide if we go to war,” said Bechtel.
Bechtel says he believes time heals all wounds.
“I have young people say to me thank you for your service and that’s very rewarding,” said Bechtel.
Organizers say more than 58,000 U.S. troops were killed in Vietnam. According to the National League of Families of American Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia, as of March 30th, the number of Americans missing and unaccounted for from the Vietnam War is 1,577.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.