Rock Island National Cemetery hosts Vietnam War ‘50th Anniversary Commemorative Ceremony’

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. (KWQC) - The Rock Island National Cemetery hosted the Vietnam War ‘50th Anniversary Commemorative Ceremony’ on Wednesday, Vietnam War Veterans Day, to honor all United States veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. armed forces from Nov. 1 1955 to May 15, 1975.

The ceremony was held at the Rock Island National Cemetery on Wednesday at 10 a.m. and included the following elements coordinated by Vietnam Veterans of America Quad Cities Chapter 299 and other local chapters including:

• Welcome and introductions, Matt Tomes, director, Rock Island National Cemetery
• National anthem, Jim Bell, Vietnam Veterans of America 299
• Welcome address, Matt Tomes
• Keynote speaker, Rob Sebastian, Combat Veteran of Vietnam War
• Wreath laying, Matt Tomes and Rob Sebastian
• Rifle salute, Vietnam Veterans of America chapters 776 and 299
• Taps, Tracy Hepner, Moline American Legion Post 246
• Conclusion

Vietnam veterans also took the time to recount stories from the war during the ceremony.

Copyright 2023 KWQC. All rights reserved.