On Sept. 7, 2019, Hastings American Legion Post 47 welcomed, thanked and honored our local and all Vietnam veterans. Our program opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, singing the national anthem, and the Hastings VFW Post #1210 Firing Squad provided a 21-gun salute.
The mayor of Hastings welcomed the audience and Vietnam veterans. Sgt. Robert Masching of Charlie Company, C/3/12 Infantry spoke on behalf of Charlie Company's involvement during the Vietnam War with the 4th Infantry Division in the years of 1966-67. Many of the men who spoke fought with Charlie Company during the battle termed, "Nine Days in May". The book titled, "Nine Days In May" was mentioned several times during the afternoon.
An open-mic session allowed several Vietnam veterans to speak.
We concluded with a thankful prayer and singing "God Bless America."
It was everyone's day---we had a chance to thank the Vietnam veterans for serving, and our Vietnam veterans received their long-overdue honor!
Our event was covered by our local community television station, Channel 14,
Here is the link to the YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYk40jLYcjk&feature=youtu.be