Vietnam Veterans Honored On Wednesday

“We owe so much to our veterans of all wars and I’m so glad Vietnam Veterans are being honored on their very special day.” Those were the words of Hamilton County Trustee Bill Hullander as he enjoyed a large hamburger with Vietnam veterans at a special picnic on National Vietnam War Veterans Day.

Mr. Hullander urged totally disabled veterans to take advantage of Tennessee laws that give them substantial property tax breaks. He said, “All veterans have to do is call my office and we’ll give them details.”

With clear skies and a brisk wind blowing, members of VVA chapter 203 grilled hamburgers and hot dogs Wednesday for Vietnam vets and their guests on the Wal-Mart Highway 153 parking lot.

Mr. Hullander was among the invited guests who personally thanked each vets for their service. Hullander also visited with 92-year-old Jim Sadler who was honored for his Naval service during the Korean War.

Chapter President Charlie Hobbs recognized John Sparks, who was a prisoner of war for five years in Vietnam after being shot down by the North Vietnamese.

Retired City Court Judge Russell Bean and Hamilton County Commissioner Jeff Eversole thanked the Vietnam vets for serving saying many suffered permanent body injuries for freedom.

Both the Chattanooga City Council and Hamilton County Commission issued proclamations this week recognizing March 29^th as a day set aside to honor the Vietnam Veterans.

Chapter 203’s honor guard was given special recognition for their service to the community.

Chapter 203 members and guests were surprised when about 15 Chattanooga Police Officers showed up to say thanks to the vets. President Hobbs invited the group to enjoy the burgers with an opportunity to thank each officer for their service to the city of Chattanooga.

Vietnam Veterans chapter 203, the second largest in the United States, meets the third Monday in the month in the MAC building at the corner of McCallie and Holtzclaw Avenues. For membership and other information call 991-5858.

President Donald Trump signed legislation on March 29, 2017, calling for U.S. flags to be flown to honor everyone who served during this time whether they were in Vietnam or not.