The York County Department of Veterans Affairs and Board of Commissioners today announced the County’s acceptance into a nationwide program to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.
The County was recently accepted by the Department of Defense as a partner in the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration. It is a national effort involving participants from government agencies and a variety of other organizations.
To participate, the County is pledging to host at least two Vietnam-related events per year from 2015-2017. A commemorative flag will fly at the Administrative Center, 28 E. Market St. in York City.
“Vietnam veterans served honorably in one of the most difficult and domestically divisive conflicts ever to face this country,” said Phil Palandro, director of York County Veterans Affairs. “The failure of our nation to provide a proper homecoming is a disgrace, but perhaps through this anniversary we can help to make amends for this mistreatment.”
As part of the County’s commitment to the anniversary, the Department of Veterans Affairs will help to staff a tent at this year’s York Fair where veterans and their family get can information about benefits available to them. The plan is to continue offering the booth at future fairs.
The Department also plans to honor Vietnam Veterans on during annual ceremonies on Memorial Day and Veterans Day, and will be developing additional events in recognition of the war’s anniversary.
“Vietnam veterans served our country with valor and courage,” said Commissioner Chris Reilly. “It is never too late to recognize their heroism and sacrifice.”