The annual Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Day ceremony, themed “Welcome Home,” will take place on March 28, 2024, at 10 a.m. at the TAPS Monument located at 915 Walnut St in Green Cove Springs. More than 400 attendees are expected to honor those who served during the Vietnam War, coinciding with the National Vietnam War Veterans Day. This event is open to the public and marks the sixth year of the ceremony.
The TAPS of Veterans Memorial of Clay County is organizing the event, with support from local leaders and community organizations. All Vietnam veterans, their families, and supporters are encouraged to participate. As an added tribute, 50th Commemorative lapel pins and certificates will be presented by the Daughters of the American Revolution, enhancing the significance of this occasion.
Key Highlights of the Ceremony
One of the highlights will feature guest speaker Jeanie Jacobs Huffman, whose father remains unaccounted for from the Vietnam War. As a representative for Mission: POW-MIA, she aims to shed light on the ongoing struggles faced by families of missing service members. The organization is dedicated to providing transparency and support for the families of America’s POW-MIA, of which there are still 1,566 unaccounted for from the Vietnam conflict.
The TAPS Monument honors the names of 66 fallen warriors from Clay County, including 21 from the Vietnam War. During the ceremony, the names of those killed in action will be read aloud, each followed by a bell toll. Navy Master Chief Mack Ellis (retired) will perform a rendition of “Old Glory,” while the Navy band will entertain guests as they arrive. Additionally, Craig Seaton will lead a sing-along medley during the event.
Community Engagement and Support
Motorcycle groups, including the Patriot Guard and Rolling Thunder, will conduct a ride to the ceremony, adding a sense of camaraderie to the event. Attendees can also enjoy an old car display and presentations from the Military Museum of North Florida and Camp Blanding. Community involvement is encouraged, with guests invited to bring canned goods for the Food Pantry of Green Cove Springs.
The National Vietnam War Veterans Day, occurring on March 29, honors all military personnel who served during the Vietnam War from 1955 to 1975. Between January 1, 1965, and March 28, 1973, approximately 2.6 million military personnel served in South Vietnam, with an additional 50,000 serving in Vietnam from 1960 to 1964. Overall, more than nine million served on active duty during the Vietnam Era, which lasted from August 5, 1965, to May 7, 1975. The conflict resulted in over 58,000 U.S. military casualties between 1959 and 1975.
For more information regarding the ceremony, interested individuals can contact (904) 269-1857.
