Sioux City Journal

Vietnam vet appreciates South Dakota welcome home

Posted: Thursday, September 28, 2006

McCOOK LAKE, S.D. -- Sept. 15 and 16, Pierre, S. D. -- these were two of the most memorable days of my life. I fought in Vietnam in 1965-1966. On Sept. 15 and 16, the state of South Dakota formally welcomed the Vietnam veterans home. The state of South Dakota also said "thank you" for our hard work and dedication.

The Moving Wall, a replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., was also at the dedication. I had a chance to read the names on the wall. This was powerful. I read several names of soldiers who were killed in Vietnam, some of them I knew personally. I have left this behind, but have never forgotten them.

Initially, when we returned home we were not welcomed and thanked; rather, we were called names such as baby killers. This was not a very welcoming time for me. However, the time I spent in Pierre was.

These two days in September have been healing for me in many ways. I hope that other states follow suit and honor their Vietnam veterans in a similar way.

In conclusion, I want to thank the state of South Dakota, Gov. Mike Rounds, the 1,400 volunteers and the city of Pierre for such a well-organized, memorable and healing weekend. -- John R. Cole

Story Comments

foutsy wrote on Oct 5, 2006 7:16 AM:

" Good job, South Dakota. Would't it be great if Sioux City would also honor the Vietnam and other war veterins? "

MDS wrote on Sep 30, 2006 8:30 AM:

" GOD BLESS YOU!!!! "

USMC wrote on Sep 28, 2006 12:16 PM:

" Wonderful job and many thanks to everyone that worked so hard to make this happen. Simper Fi South Dakota. "

Stephanie wrote on Sep 28, 2006 11:12 AM:

" John - My dad served in the Vietnam war, but had never really wanted to talk about his time over there. But after he attended the dedication weekend, he spoke openly for the first time about some experiences. He said initially he had not wanted to attend the weekend, but after going, he said he would have been kicking himself for the rest of his life had he not attended. Thank you to the great state of South Dakota for recognizing their veterans and welcoming them home. Also, THANK YOU to my dad, and to John, and to all the others who served (and continue to serve) so that the rest of us may enjoy our freedom. "

Dean wrote on Sep 28, 2006 10:13 AM:

" A BIG thank you to John and all Service Men and Women!! "