West Hartford Vietnam Vets Get Special Invites

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Local Vietnam War-era veterans should have received letters from state officials last week for a special ceremony slated for September.

Town officials said 600 letters were mailed to West Hartford Vietnam War-era veterans inviting them to a special recognition ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 21.

Prompted by Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz’s and Commissioner of Veterans Affairs Thomas J. Saadi’s efforts to recognize veterans by eras, ceremonies are being held in towns throughout Connecticut to give thanks to Vietnam War-era veterans.

In 2021, West Hartford recognized Korean War era veterans.

“It is because of your service and that of your brother and sister veterans that we are able to live in this free and democratic Nation. We believe your patriotic service to our nation during the Vietnam War era, along with that of your fellow West Hartford veterans, is truly deserving of recognition,” said Bysiewicz in a letter to veterans.

Veterans and their families are invited to West Hartford’s Veterans Recognition Ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 21, at 5 p.m. at the Conard High School Auditorium, 110 Beechwood Road.

A special recognition certificate will be given from the State of Connecticut.

“While we would very much love to see you in person to thank you for your service,” said Bysiewicz in the letter, “if you are unable to attend this public event, let us know and we can optionally send your recognition certificate directly to you and your family. Please let us know by September 9th so we can accommodate this request.”

Any Vietnam War era veteran who did not receive a letter but served honorably are also invited.

They can, simply, provide their name, address, phone number, branch of service and years served to VeteransAffairs@westhartfordct.gov or call 860-561-7521.

Attendees are asked to RSVP by Friday, Sept. 9, by emailing VeteransAffairs@westhartfordct.gov or calling West Hartford communications officer Renée McCue at 860-561-7521.