Boardman VFW Calls for Recognition of Local Vietnam Veterans

As communities across the nation prepare to mark National Vietnam War Veterans Day on March 29th, the focus turns to honoring those who served. Here in Boardman, local veterans’ advocates are reflecting on the importance of acknowledging our own neighbors who answered the call during a divisive chapter of American history.

“It’s never too late to say ‘thank you’ and ‘welcome home,'” said a representative from the Boardman VFW Post. “Many of our local veterans returned to a country that didn’t separate the war from the warrior. We want to ensure that every Vietnam-era veteran in Morrow County knows their service and sacrifice is valued right here in their hometown.”

While large-scale ceremonies often make headlines in bigger cities, the effort in Eastern Oregon is more personal. Local posts encourage residents to simply reach out to the veterans in their lives—neighbors, family members, or coworkers—and offer a personal word of gratitude. Many veterans from that era live quiet lives among us, having built families, careers, and farms after their service.

The VFW also reminds the community that assistance is available. Numerous benefits and healthcare services through the VA are specifically tailored for Vietnam veterans, including those related to exposure to Agent Orange. They urge any local veteran who has not connected with available resources to reach out to the post or county veteran services for guidance.

“These men and women are part of the fabric of Boardman,” the representative added. “Their stories are our local history. Taking a moment to recognize them strengthens our entire community.”