On Thursday, September 29, 2022, the Somers Department of Veterans Affairs will honor over 50 Vietnam War Veterans in its second Vietnam War Veterans Commemoration Ceremony. This is an opportunity for every American to recognize and thank our Vietnam Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice during one of America’s longest wars.
The Town of Somers joins thousands of organizations across the country as a commemorative partner supporting the Department of Defense in its Vietnam War Commemoration ceremonies.
Please note the details regarding our 2nd ceremony in year 2022 as follows:
When: Thursday, September 29, 2022
Where: Town of Somers – Auditorium, 600 Main St., Somers, CT 06071
Time: 10:00 – 11:30 AM (approximately)
Keynote Speaker: Thomas J. Saadi, Commissioner, CT Dept. of Veterans Affairs
Host: Town of Somers – First Selectman Timothy R. E. Keeney
*Light Refreshments will be available.
As a lasting memento of the nation’s gratitude, Veterans will receive a Presidential proclamation, a Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin, an Honor Certificate from CT Dept of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Saadi, and a Certificate of Distinction from the Town of Somers. Photos will also be taken and provided to each honoree.
Surviving spouses of those who served are also eligible for recognition. This includes Veterans classified as “Vietnam Era Veterans” — the period covered is November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975.
To be included in this special event, veterans must provide their Name, address, city, zip, branch of service, DD-214 (honorable discharge), rank, service dates, phone number, and email address. Please email the information to Veterans@SomersCT.gov or mail it to the “Town of Somers, Dept. of Veterans Affairs, 600 Main St., Somers, CT 06071.”
The Town Hall is accessible for those with disabilities. Please indicate if you need any additional accommodations.
The 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War became official following the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act in 2008. By presidential proclamation in 2012, the commemoration extends through Veterans Day 2025. The tribute makes no distinction among veterans who served in-country, in-theater or were stationed elsewhere during those two decades. All answered the country’s call to service.
Somers Department of Veterans Affairs (SDVA) encourages each American to remember and honor the 9 million American men and women – nearly 6 million of whom are living today – who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during one of the longest conflicts in our Nation’s history, from November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975.
“It is our heartfelt honor and privilege to recognize our Vietnam era veterans, especially as our nation marks the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.” D.P. McCaffrey, Director, SDVA. “Our first ceremony in March was so memorable that we are looking forward to honoring at least another 50 veterans.”
“We must never forget their service and sacrifices, which oftentimes includes permanent soul wounds.” S.A. Marquis, Deputy Director, SDVA
