Around 170 local Vietnam War veterans and guests from Verona and Fitchburg made an appearance at the American Legion Mason-Lindsay Post 385’s Welcome Home/Appreciation Picnic to honor lives lost and recognize Vietnam-era veterans for their service on Sunday, June 25.

“From the comments I heard, everyone had a good time and enjoyed talking to fellow Vietnam veterans,” commented past post commander Stan Hook.

The Verona Fire Department opened the program by presenting the American and POW/MIA flags. Robert DeBoux sang the national anthem, while American Legion 3rd District Commander Jerry Hook conducted a POW/MIA ceremony to remember those who never returned home.

Fitchburg Hy-Vee catered the picnic itself, serving fried chicken, roast beef, potato salad, baked beans, roasted red potatoes, rolls and dessert for those in attendance.

Following the meal, veterans Charlotte Jerney and Denise Rohan spoke to guests. Jerney spoke briefly about the important role nurses played in Vietnam, while Rohan spoke of the heroes seated in front of her and how the Verona Press was highlighting many of their stories.

Each veteran received a Vietnam commemorative lapel pin and a Vietnam Veteran or Vietnam Era Veteran baseball cap.

Other attendees of the picnic included Wisconsin Veterans Affairs Secretary-designee James Bond, Department of Wisconsin American Legion Commander Julie Muhle, Dane County Auxiliary president Noreen Schmidt, representatives for Badger Honor Flight, the Dane County Veterans Service Office and Dogs 2 Dogtags.

Five veterans in attendance received a Quilt of Valor. The Quilts of Valor Foundation works to cover servicemembers and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing quilts. The recipients were Dorian Hermanson (USA), Ralph Stoikes (USA), Steve Rohan (USMC), Dan Strain (USN) and Mark Losenegger (USAF).

Hook said, “I hope they all realize how much we appreciate what they did for this country and how proud we are of them. But more than anything, we want them to know they are not alone and that there is plenty of help available for those still carrying the burdens of Vietnam with them.”

More photos of the event are viewable at: https://orohanphotography.shootproof.com/gallery/21786996/.