DAR, American Legion to honor Vietnam veterans

A multi-chapter, two-state event of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the American Legion pays tribute to Vietnam veterans at 3 p.m. Sept. 16 at the Post Falls American Legion.

Washington's DAR chapters including Sacajawea, Jonas Babcock and May Hutton will join Idaho's Pleasantview Chapter and Stephen H. Nipp American Legion Post 143 to host "Welcome Home! Join the Nation ... Thank a Vietnam Veteran for Service to Our Nation."

The enduring legacy of the vets' service and sacrifice should never be forgotten and this effort is meant to inspire all Americans to thank these beautiful men and women and their families for their service and their sacrifice.

A formal ceremony will feature keynote speaker Gregory Lucas, a Vietnam vet and president of the Washington State Sons of the American Revolution; and Tami Grandstaff-Chamberlain, daughter of Medal of Honor winner Bruce H. Grandstaff. The event culminates with the pinning of each previously unrecognized Vietnam veteran in attendance. 

The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration was authorized by Congress, established under the secretary of defense and launched by the president in 2012. By presidential proclamation, the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration continues through Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2025.

"Post Falls is my hometown, and with the help of many friends and local patriots, we are thrilled to be able to honor our beloved Vietnam-era veterans," said event organizer Franida Maudsley of the Sacajawea Chapter DAR.

The commemoration honors all veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time from Nov. 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975, regardless of location as all were called to serve and none could self-determine where they were stationed. Since 2012, more than 3.4 million Vietnam veterans and their families have been publicly thanked by friends and neighbors during 24,000 ceremonies hosted by dedicated commemorative partners.

Info: vietnamwar50th.com