Kirtland honors Vietnam veterans at 50th anniversary ceremony

  • Published
  • By Kendahl Johnson
  • 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  About 70 Vietnam veterans were recognized and honored at a Kirtland luncheon Sept. 18 at the Mountain View Club.

The red carpet was rolled out to welcome veterans of the Vietnam War, and members of the Blue Star Mothers organization lined both sides of the carpet and greeted the veterans with applause as they entered the club.

"It is a much different climate today than back then, when people were scorned," said Robert Martinez, a disable veteran attending the event. "This was very humbling and much appreciated."

Marty Dotson, another disabled veteran at the luncheon, said he was spit on and called names when he returned. He said it's awesome that Vietnam veterans are now getting the recognition they deserve, and that walking down the red carpet was especially touching.

"You can see in their eyes it means a great deal to them," said Carol Sanchez, Blue Star Mothers. "It's definitely an honor and a privilege to be able to welcome them and thank them for their service."

The commemoration also recognized military members who were held as prisoners of war or are listed as missing in action. There was a table with one empty chair at the front of the luncheon to remind attendees of POWs and MIAs, and of the personal sacrifice of war.

In addition to paying tribute to veterans on the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, the event also commemorated the 67th birthday of the Air Force.  To watch the Air Force-produced short video on the birthday, click here.