Veterans gather in Cove to commemorate 50th anniversary of Vietnam War ending

It was April 30, 1975, when the war in Vietnam officially ended, as the last Americans scrambled to evacuate while the North Vietnamese overran the South Vietnam capital city

Copperas Cove Star (Texas)

Veterans gather in Cove to commemorate 50th anniversary of Vietnam War ending

COPPERAS COVE — It was April 30, 1975, when the war in Vietnam officially ended, as the last Americans scrambled to evacuate while the North Vietnamese overran the South Vietnam capital city, Saigon, establishing a unified country under communist rule after two decades of fighting.

To commemorate that historic date and honor area veterans who fought in that controversial conflict, Star Group-Veterans Helping Veterans in Copperas Cove hosted a celebration last Wednesday in which nearly two dozen Vietnam vets were recognized and presented with commemorative framed certificates and anniversary coins.

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Since 1975, Star Group has been assisting area veterans in various ways, and the organization’s president, Ron Star, said that it was important to continue showing appreciation for their service, especially given the less-than-stellar reception many received upon returning from the war.

“We’re trying to keep the essence of what the Star Group does, which is to help veterans in any way we can,” Star said. “We’re presenting these certificates to the Vietnam veterans in appreciation for their service to our country during the Vietnam War era, which spanned about 10 years. We want to thank them for their service and sacrifices, and we hope that they will continue to be a source of strength and inspiration for generations to come.”

After the recognition ceremony, Star and other group members chatted with the vets and their families, sharing memories and experiences from their time in Vietnam.

The Star Group also recognized several volunteers and supporters with certificates of appreciation for their contributions to the organization's mission.

"We are grateful for the dedication and selflessness of our volunteers and supporters, who play a crucial role in enabling us to provide assistance to veterans in need," said one of the group's officers, whose name was not disclosed.

The event concluded with a light breakfast and continued networking among the attendees.

The Star Group Copperas Cove chapter no 775 is part of a larger organization, Union Dividend Corporation, which provides a range of financial and economic services to businesses and individuals. The Star Group is focused on veterans' affairs and assisting service members in various ways.