Monitor Photo/Denise York
The Sarah Maples Chapter of the NSDAR presents a program Nov. 9 commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War at the Mabank Veterans Memorial. The oldest veteran at the ceremony, Victor Chaney, is given special recognition for his service during World War II. Chaney spoke passionately about his recent trip to Normandy, France as part of a Freedom Flight that commemorated the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Congratulating him is Janet Erwin. 

Monitor Photo/Denise York
Author and poet Sandy Carroll displays a Purple Heart sent to her uncle’s family 79 years after his death. Carroll shows a picture of her uncle along with a poem she wrote to honor him. Although she was a small child when he passed away, his death affected her deeply and was a major factor in her decision to serve.

Monitor Photo/Denise York
Local VFW Commander Randall Johnston receives his pin as a veteran who served during the Vietnam War.

Monitor Photo/Denise York
First Baptist Church Pastor Larry Strandberg speaks about the importance of service to our country, thanking local veterans for their bravery and sacrifice. Strandberg also thanked the families whose sacrifice is often overlooked. Strandberg served in the Army Infantry.