Our Opinion: Finally, a proper homecoming for several Vietnam vets

This Thursday afternoon, each of us has an opportunity to participate in a moving event that will show our appreciation for eight Vietnam War veterans and their families.

“Wave ‘em if you have ‘em” is an event tied to Operation Bugle Boy’s Veterans Appreciation Night. The nonprofit organization honors veterans, soldiers and first-responders. It holds the appreciation night annually.

On Thursday, Operation Bugle Boy will feed 500 military veterans and their guests at the St. Martins Knights of Columbus Hall, 537 Route T.

The Thanksgiving-style dinner will honor all of the attendees, but particularly will honor eight Vietnam War veterans and their families — veterans who likely were not welcomed with open arms upon returning from Southeast Asia several decades ago.

This group of eight, along with their families, will travel in a motorcade from Candlewood Suites, 3514 Amazonas Drive, to the Knights of Columbus hall.

That’s where “Wave ‘em if you have ‘em” needs your help.

The event asks the public to gather along the motorcade route by 3:45 p.m., 30 minutes before the motorcade starts. When the motorcade comes, show banners (incorporating yellow ribbons) and wave flags with yellow ribbons.

Mike Flanagan, chairman of the “Wave ‘em” event, said the yellow ribbon is symbolic of the nation’s thankfulness for the veterans’ service.

The route is as follows: Truman Boulevard from the hotel to Country Club Drive, where it will turn right. It will travel along Country Club to Business U.S. 50, where it will turn right again (west). It will continue to Route T in Apache Flats and turn right (north), before reaching its destination.

We encourage you to take a little time out of your busy day to participate in the event. You’ll help to provide these eight Vietnam veterans with an experience they’ll never forget. Chances are, you’ll be deeply moved yourself.

News Tribune