Veterans are an important group in Carbon County.

They have dedicated their lives to protecting ours.

Some received great welcomes home, while others were forgotten.

On Thursday, the Carbon County Commissioners recognized the veterans of the Vietnam War by naming March 29 as Vietnam War Veterans Day in Carbon County, which marks the anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.

“We will honor all those who answered our nation’s call to duty and served from Nov. 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, with strong conviction; our nation pledges our enduring respect, our continuing care and our everlasting commitment to all Vietnam era veterans,” the proclamation states.

There are more than 3 million servicemen and women who fought in Vietnam, including 325,208 from Pennsylvania.

“Since their returns, these veterans have contributed tremendously to their communities, the commonwealth and the nation. They have displayed unparalleled support for those currently serving by providing welcoming celebrations for those returning and honors to those who have fallen.”

“Thank you for all of your service,” Commissioners’ Chairman Wayne Nothstein said. “We appreciate everything that all of you Vietnam veterans have done for our country.”

“It’s just a great day when we can come together and honor these gentlemen,” Christine LeClair, director of Carbon County Veterans Affairs, said. “They certainly didn’t receive it when they came home.”

Commissioner Rocky Ahner said that these veterans are an important part in our history.

“You’ve done your job to protect us and I greatly appreciate it,” he said.

Commissioner Chris Lukasevich also commended the Vietnam veterans, of which there are about 1,800 in Carbon County.

“I think we all recognize not simply the values you brought to our nation on international security during the Vietnam War, but also what you have brought back and continue to give to this community as veterans and good citizens.”

To honor these men and women, Together with Veterans NEPA is hosting a luncheon for Vietnam veterans on March 29 at the Lehighton American Legion.

LeClair said that over 100 veterans have RSVP’d to the event.