Vietnam vets finally welcomed home

Thousands of veterans, their family members and community members are expected to attend a “welcome home” celebration to honor Vietnam War veterans for their sacrifice and service. LZ (Landing Zone) Michigan is scheduled for Saturday, July 3, at Fifth Third BallPark in Grand Rapids beginning at 7 p.m.

This statewide event is the second of its kind in the country with more to follow. LZ Lambeau in Wisconsin attracted 70,000 people at its three-day welcome home celebration in May 2010.

Michigan’s community celebration, sponsored in part by WGVU, will feature speakers, musical entertainment, a motorcycle rally, displays and a video from the premiere of Vietnam War Stories. The celebration will close with fireworks.

“This is long overdue,” said Michigan Vietnam veteran Ron Oakes. “I still know some vets who are bitter and won’t talk about the war. They refuse to join any organizations related to being a vet. I believe this event will help. We’re going to try.”

State Sen. Bill Hardiman served in Vietnam and said the event will be a time of healing. “We have our treasure, our heart for America when we served, yet we were never welcomed home. Those who went to Canada were considered heroes. It is just and it is right to thank our Vietnam veterans and I know LZ Michigan will bring healing.”

Connie Dang’s family was one of the last rescued out of Saigon. Dang, director of Multicultural Affairs at Grand Valley, is scheduled to speak at the event. “I was a young girl but I remember the bombings and fearing for my life. I want to thank Vietnam veterans for saving my family,” she said.

MEDIA NOTE: All media should check in at the WGVU tent near the main ticket entrance to Fifth Third Ballpark in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Media credentials and a press kit will be issued.

Tickets for LZ Michigan can be reserved at www.lzmichigan.org or by calling 800-442-2771. Adult tickets are $10; Vietnam and Vietnam-era veterans receive complimentary tickets. All proceeds will be used to support programming at LZ Michigan.

For a complete list of sponsors, partners and event details visit www.lzmichigan.org. The event is not political or military; it is the community’s expression of thanks, support and welcome for the men and women who served in Vietnam. For more information contact Tim Eernisse at (616) 914-4280.















 

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