CHARLOTTE HALL, MD – In partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Baltimore Regional Benefits Office, Charlotte Hall Veterans Home, on March 29, 2016, hosted a “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans” pinning ceremony.
Community members, volunteers, and staff lined the halls waving signs and flags, cheering and helping the veterans feel welcome as they arrived to the ceremony. Many of the visitors remembered how Vietnam Veterans were treated and used the event as an opportunity to welcome home and genuinely thank them. “After the way our Vietnam Veterans were treated when they returned home in the 1960’s and 70’s, I wanted to be here to let them know we do appreciate what they did for our country and to say thank you,” said Shirley Vatter, Regional Vice President of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Fleet Reserve Association and avid volunteer at the Veterans Home.
Wes Simpkins, the Veterans Homes’ American Legion Post Commander, offered a moving invocation. Following, Maryland Department of Secretary Affairs’ Secretary George W. Owings, III, a Vietnam Veteran himself, shared personal stories with fellow veterans and emphasized the importance of remembering those who could not attend. “It’s an honor to have served alongside these brave men and women and I appreciate the nationwide support,” said Owings. “I only wish more were able to celebrate with us. We salute those who have passed on.”
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Baltimore Regional Benefits Office Director Antoine Waller expressed his deep gratitude and appreciation for those who served. He acknowledged that these veterans were not treated with the respect they deserved and was humbled to be a part of a program which honors them.
Following remarks, each Vietnam Veteran attending the ceremony, including staff at the Veterans Home, were pinned by members of the Baltimore VA leadership team in recognition of their service. The front of the pin displays various symbols of courage, victory, strength, and comradery. The back, closest to the wearer’s heart, reads, “A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You.”.
For more photos from the event, please visit www.charhall.org or the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home Facebook page.
Charlotte Hall Veterans Home is Maryland’s only long-term care and assisted living facility dedicated to caring for Veterans and their eligible spouses. The Home has 454 beds and offers rehabilitative services, memory care, an on-site Veterans Benefits officer, and more.