On June 17, a momentous event took place in the Drendel Ballroom.
This event was not just a gathering, but a profound tribute to our Vietnam-era veterans, honoring their service and welcoming them home. It was hosted by the Sun City Veterans Charter Club.
Dino Micheli, secretary of the club, said, “We are here to honor over 70 veterans. They will be given a commemorative pin and a Presidential letter, a small token of our immense gratitude.”
The officers of the Veterans Club, led by Ken Kalscheur, president, include: Dino Micheli, secretary; David Applegate, vice president; and Clifford Dungey, treasurer.
The event was a testament to the unwavering support of the community, with family and friends, keynote speaker Congressman Bill Foster, Huntley City manager David Johnson, Bill Niemasz, Sun City Board of Directors president, the entire Board of Directors, Sun City Executive Director, Brian Gregory and Air Force Major General Grant Mulder in attendance.
Tom O’Shea, Sun City resident and member of the Veterans Club, opened the event.
“Welcome to all veterans and guests. We thank you for joining us in honoring our veterans,” O’Shea said.
Kalscheur said, “This year, the United States will mark the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. This commemoration ceremony was authorized by Congress and launched by President Obama in 2012. It honors all who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War and their families.”
Keynote speaker Foster expressed gratitude for the sacrifices made by the Veterans. “We owe a debt to these veterans that can never be repaid. Their courage and selflessness have shaped our nation and our lives,” he said.
Major General Mulder, chosen to present the pins to each of the recipients, said, “The end of the war 50 years ago seems just like yesterday. Unfortunately, Vietnam veterans often faced a challenging and sometimes hostile reception upon returning home. Many were warned to expect a negative reception, and some veterans took steps to avoid it, such as changing out of their uniforms at the airport. Today, we are grateful for your service and for the families of our Veterans who have also made sacrifices.”
Johnson paid tribute to the veterans, who he said are “an inspiration to us all.”
He referred to the two significant Huntley memorials honoring veterans: the Huntley Veterans Memorial and the Eternal Flame, situated in front of the American Legion.
Niemasz said, “Speaking for the Board, we are proud you now call Sun City Huntley your home. Welcome home. We honor you. We thank you. Your legacy is one of sacrifice and strength. Because of you, we have a deeper understanding of what it means to serve, and we are better prepared to care for those who follow in your footsteps. You have turned hardship into hope and pain into purpose. We will never forget what you have done.”
Every veteran’s name was called, and they shook hands and saluted the Major General, receiving their pin, a symbol of the nation’s thanks for their service. Spouses and brothers received the recognition in honor of those who could not be present. The officers of the Veterans Club were the last to receive their pins. Micheli concluded the event with an emotional and heartfelt rendition of “Welcome Home Soldier.”
2 Comments
It was a momentous day. First time I was recognized for my Viet Nam service. Thank you all for your kindness and respect.
James Dickson Sgt USAF
It was a fantastic event for all the Veterans, Recognition that was way too late and very well deserved for all they have done for our country.
Special thank you to Congressman Bill Foster, Major General Grant Mulder, Huntley Village Manager Dave Johnson, Sun City Association President Bill Niemasz and all the Sun City Board members who attended.