Press Releases

DENVER—Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) hosted a ceremony at Red Rocks Community College ahead of Independence Day to recognize and honor Vietnam veterans from across Colorado. Pettersen, along with officials from the United States Marine Corps, recognized over 20 veterans and awarded them each an official pin from the United States government. This ceremony was a part of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, which was authorized by Congress and launched in 2012, and aims to properly thank Vietnam veterans for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the nation.

“Veterans should be shown respect and reverence when they return home from serving in a conflict zone,” said Pettersen. “However, many soldiers returning from Vietnam were treated poorly, and were never recognized for their bravery and sacrifice. This ceremony is an effort to make sure these veterans know how much their service is appreciated. They put everything on the line to serve our country and it’s a great honor to recognize these heroes from our community.”

“Everyone that was in Vietnam has a story. We were all brothers and sisters together, working and praying we got to go home alive and well,” said Vietnam veteran and pinning ceremony participant Gene Schafer. “It took a long time for any of us to have someone say ‘thank you for your service’. Although it took a long time-we are glad it is here. The appreciation and acknowledgement of our sacrifice and service. The pin we receive today is the physical manifestation of that appreciation.”

“I think it is great that we are combining this with the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam war,” said Vietnam veteran and pinning ceremony participant William Bridges. “It means a lot to everyone here. Thank you for hosting this event”

21 Vietnam veterans or the families of Vietnam veterans, including those who served in the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Marine Corps, were honored during the ceremony and presented with the commemorative lapel pin by Pettersen. The pins are embossed with a bald eagle, to symbolize the courage, honor, and dedication to service embodied by our veterans. The blue border and stripes represent our flag and signify vigilance, perseverance, and justice. The laurel wreath along the border represents victory, integrity, and strength. The six stars beside the eagle represent the U.S. and our five allies who served alongside one another – Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, and Thailand. The pin is engraved with a message that reads, “a grateful nation thanks and honors you."