Vietnam Vets Presented Anniversary Pins At Elk Grove VFW

Two dozen Vietnam veterans from Elk Grove Village and across the region gathered at Elk Grove Village VFW Post 9284 to receive official lapel pins commemorating the 2012, 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.
U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-8th) and State Sen. Laura Murphy (D-28th) pinned the commemorative medals on each of the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines attending the ceremony.
Both Krishnamoorthi and Murphy said they were humbled to be in the presence of those who gave so much to their country. State Rep. Christine Winger (R-45th), also at the event, said, “It is an honor to be here with you.”
“We can’t thank you enough,” Murphy said. “You didn’t always get the accolades you deserved.”
According to a fact sheet provided by Krishnamoorthi’s office, the pin includes six elements: the eagle representing courage, honor, and dedicated service to the nation; the blue circle matching the canton of the American flag “signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice: the circle shape and blue color also match the official seal of the Vietnam Commemoration; the laurel wreath “represents victory, integrity, and strength”; the stripes behind the eagle represent the American flag; the six stars “represent the six allies who served, sacrificed, and fought alongside one another: Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Thailand and the United States.”
On the reverse of the pin a message reads: “A grateful nation thanks and honors you.”
Organizers said there are still 7 million veterans alive who served during the conflict.
“Living United States veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time during the period of November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975, regardless of location, are eligible to receive one lapel pin,” the fact sheet said.
Author: Tom Robb
Original Source