News: Lublin Days (Honor Deceased Vietnam Vets – 2017)

Transcriber: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Clewell, Stewart, McCain, Staubach, Powell, Stone

----Source: THORP COURIER (Thorp, Clark County, Wis.) 26 Jul 2017

The Vietnam War lasted for over a decade, but the et ripple effect the war caused can still be felt by veterans, friends and family to this day. Because of or that, this year's Lublin Days parade was followed by a special service at the Stanislaus Parish to honor the Vietnam veterans who are no longer with us.

The Wisconsin Department Commander of the American Legion, Laurel M. Clewell attended the event, giving an emotional speech to the veterans and their family in attendance.

"More than 201,000 purple hearts were given out to Vietnam veterans from Wisconsin alone," said Clewell. "The war affected all of us. Even celebrities known around the world served. Jimmy Stewart flew B2 bombing missions, John McCain served five years as a prisoner of war, Oliver Stone, Colin Powell, and even Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach. While many celebrities did their part to serve their country, we all personally know someone who served, and those are our heroes. The conflict in many ways shaped our nation. Losing so many since the war to agent orange has made it clear that we need to continue to fight for those that fought for us. Quality healthcare is not an option. It is a must!"

More than 58,000 men and women died in the war in Vietnam. Many who served and have since passed on were members of our local communities. After her speech, names of deceased veterans from the area were read off, and plaques were provided to family members to honor their service and sacrifice.