By Cindy Peterson
Vietnam Veteran “Welcome Home” Ceremony To Take Place in March
Mark your calendars for a special day of recognition and appreciation as the Mary Ellen Robertson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) proudly hosts “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day” on Saturday, March 30 at the Venetian Center, 1 Dozier Circle in Leesburg.
The event kicks off with registration and a continental breakfast at 9 a.m., followed by the program’s official commencement at 10 a.m. This significant occasion is part of a nationwide effort mandated by Congress to express gratitude to the Vietnam Era Veterans of Lake County for their dedicated service.
In 2008, Congress authorized the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, officially launched in 2012 by the Secretary of Defense and the President. This commemoration, extending until Veterans Day on November 11, 2025, pays tribute to all veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces from November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, recognizing their invaluable contributions to our nation.
The Mary Ellen Robertson Chapter of the DAR believes that these veterans deserve to know the profound impact of their service and that our nation cares deeply about them. They invite everyone to join in thanking a Vietnam Era Veteran on this special day.
The program promises a memorable experience, featuring speakers such as Retired Brigadier General Timothy I. Sullivan and Retired Major General David W. Coffman. Additionally, Congressman Daniel Webster, Leesburg City officials, Lake County Commissioners, and other government officials will be present to express their gratitude and award each Veteran with a Vietnam Veteran Commemoration Lapel Pin.
A CMT award-winning singer, alongside local talents and the Lake County Concert Band, will perform patriotic music. The Civil Air Patrol Cadets, the Leesburg High School JROTC, and Boy Scouts will also be assisting throughout the program. Attendees can also look forward to chances to win gift baskets and gift cards, making this a true community endeavor.
All Vietnam Veterans are strongly encouraged to attend, and the invitation is extended to veterans from WWII to the present day. The program promises to recognize and honor the service of all veterans.
Join us as we come together to express our gratitude and offer a warm welcome back home to our Vietnam Era Veterans.
Originally from the small town of Berryville, Arkansas, Cindy has become a multimedia specialist in journalism, photography, videography, and video editing. She has a B.S. in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and produces Style Magazine's Sports Hub Podcast and the Healthy Living Podcast. She also produces for Beacon College’s Telly Award-winning PBS show, “A World of Difference.” When she isn’t working, Cindy loves traveling the National Parks with her husband , Ryan, and son, David, photographing wildlife.
