Vietnam veterans to get worthy recognition Nov. 11

Troops are greeted with open arms when they come home after long tours of duty in Afghanistan or Iraq. Flags are waved. Tears fall. Hugs and kisses greet the men and women who proudly serve our country, leaving their loved ones behind.

Parades honored soldiers upon their return after serving in World War I and World War II.

But a special group of soldiers should never be forgotten and always be appreciated. For some reason, Vietnam veterans never seemed to get the adoration from a war-torn American society in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

They fought and died for this country. They fought and died for freedom — the same principles other soldiers fought and died for.

They followed orders like everyone else.

They wore the red, white and blue on their sleeve, like everyone else.

They fought in the jungles and rice fields against an enemy they could not always see and with rules of engagement that often limited their options.

For an unexplained reason, there is the perception that America didn’t always greet these special soldiers with the same degree of love and adoration it did the men and women of other conflicts.

The area has another chance to show Vietnam veterans how much they appreciate their service to this nation and to freedom Nov. 11, Veterans Day, when the City of Opelika will host a special “Welcome Home Service” at City Hall.

Veterans will be treated to an 8 a.m. breakfast at the Elks Club, located at 1944 Opelika Road in Auburn.

Efforts to put together a motorcycle parade — rolling thunder — for the veterans is under way. The motorcycle route will extend from the Elks Club to Opelika City Hall. Vietnam veterans that also ride motorcycles are strongly encouraged to participate. Those interested in riding are asked to contact Don Turner at (334) 704-0905 or (334) 744-0581 or by email at no later than Oct. 30.

We encourage all area veterans to take part in this special morning and for members of the community to come out and show their appreciation for everything these brave soldiers did for ensuring freedom and service to their country.