Community commemorates Vietnam War 50th anniversary

Photo By Cpl. Mark Watola | Vietnam veterans the community pay their respects while a bugler plays taps during a ceremony recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War at Lejeune Memorial Gardens April 25. More than 58,000 service members were killed in action and 300,000 wounded in action during the Vietnam War and the names of the fallen are etched on the glass walls of the memorial. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Mark Watola /released)  

NORTH CAROLINA, UNITED STATES

04.25.2015

Story by Cpl. Mark Watola 

Marine Corps Installations East       

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - The Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune community gathered to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the start of the Vietnam War at Lejeune Memorial Gardens, Vietnam Memorial April 25.

During the Vietnam War, Marines fought in some of history’s bloodiest battles including Khe Sahn, Hue City and the Tet Offensive, facing a relentless enemy in the jungles, villages and cities.

More than 58,000 service members were killed in action and 300,000 wounded during the Vietnam War. The names of the fallen are etched on the walls of the Vietnam Memorial.

"It’s important to remember our brothers and sisters before us," said Paul Crowell Jr., secretary treasurer for Jon Panarese Chapter 654 of the Vietnam Veterans of America. "When we came home, no one wanted us, so we’re trying to make sure that does not happen ever again."

For some, the ceremony was a solemn reminder of the ultimate price many service members paid.

"The ceremony brought back memories of those I’ve served with," said retired Lt. Col. Andy Fiel. "A classmate of mine in high school and college served with me and was killed in Vietnam. I want to remember his sacrifice. Initially when I came back, we weren’t welcomed but now we are recognized and commemorate our generation."

To remember the prisoners of war and those missing in action, Rolling Thunder Inc. Chapter NC-5 presented the POW/MIA missing man table. They also read the names of fallen Vietnam veterans from North Carolina.

"Our generation is still here and willing to help," said Crowell. "We want to make sure the service members (who) come home today are welcomed."

• Date Taken: 04.25.2015
• Date Posted: 02.19.2016 13:40
• Story ID: 189360
• Location: NORTH CAROLINA, US