Vietnam Veterans Recognized at Special VFW Post 414 Ceremony

They did not receive the welcome home of soldiers from previous wars, and many had difficulties transitioning back to civilian life. Now, 50 years after the start of the Vietnam conflict, veterans are getting the recognition they deserve.

It was a packed house at the VFW Post 414 in Center Moriches Saturday as local officials and the community turned out to honor the Americans who did not hesitate when asked to serve their country. Organized by Congressman Andrew Garbarino, the awards ceremony reminded everyone of the sacrifices of our national heroes. The veterans, some represented by family members, received pins stating: “A grateful nation thanks and honors you.”

Speaking at the Post 414 ceremony was Bill Stratemeier, a retired colonel and member of the Long Island Air Force Association, who said the American public did not right away differentiate “the warrior from the war” as the soldiers returned from the unpopular conflict. “Vietnam was a very difficult time in our nation’s history,” Stratemeier said. “We need to do everything we can to honor and protect and support our Vietnam veterans.”

The nation’s involvement in Vietnam began shortly after the end of World War II, first in a limited capacity and then escalating over a period of 20 years with the goal of checking the influence of Communist China and Russia in the region. U.S. military presence peaked in 1969 with 543,000 American combat troops stationed in the southeast Asia country. Before the Paris Peace Accords were signed in 1973 ending the conflict, more than 58,000 American service members were killed, according to the National Archives. Thousands more were wounded or lost in action. “We’re honored to have this ceremony at our post,” said Commander Robert J. Galbraith, himself a VietNam vet.

“We appreciate everyone who came out on a summer Saturday morning, especially our elected officials who have shown how important our service men and women are to them and the community.” Brookhaven Supervisor Edward Romaine, who lives not even a mile from Post 414, was moved by the ceremony. “It’s heartening to see so many residents come together to honor our vets,” he said. “I will never miss an opportunity to thank them for their service and let them know how much we appreciate all that they do for us.”

Also in attendance was Suffolk Legislator James Mazzarella, whose son, Joseph, has recently reported to Penn State under its ROTC program. “I’m honored to be in the presence of our country’s veterans,” Mazzarella said. “We must always keep in mind that our freedom is not free. It comes at a huge cost to the service members and their families.”

Rep. Garbarino also bestowed a Congressional Certificate of Recognition on the soldiers, who represented all branches of the military. The official recognition was authorized by a special Act of Congress in 2012. “Thousands of organizations making up our Commemorative Partners have come together in the noble mission of honoring our 7 million Vietnam veterans,” Garbarino said, noting that the recognition covers veterans living both at home and abroad, and includes 10 million of their family members.

Retired U.S. Army Colonel Albert Nahas, himself a Vietnam veteran, wrote in his book, Warriors Remembered, “We had no expectations but to serve where duty called us. We asked for no reward except a nation's thanks.” Brookhaven Councilman Daniel Panico, also a Center Moriches resident, expressed his appreciation for Congressman Garbarino setting up the ceremony and the Post for hosting it. “All of our veterans are deserving of our gratitude and thanks for their service,” Panico said.

Under the leadership of Commander Galbraith, Post 414 hosts an annual Memorial Day parade and other events honoring and supporting veterans throughout the year.