Nearly 50 years after the start of the Vietnam war, Stark County Veterans received a pin commemorating their service. Among those pinned were Dick Kincaid, a Stark and Muskingum Lakes chapter Red Cross volunteer!

The pinning ceremony was held at the Canton Civic Center during the Stark County Veterans’ Stand Down held by the SAM Center of Massillon. The Red Cross was on site to help provide information about our services for veterans and their families.

The beautiful pins were commissioned by the United States of America Vietnam War  Commemoration and are provided to Commemorative Partners for dignified public presentations to living U.S. military veterans who served during the Vietnam War period as a lasting memento of the nation’s thanks.

There is a lot of symbolism behind each facet of the piece:

• Eagle – The eagle represents courage,honor,and dedicated service to our nation. As one of the most recognizable and notable American symbols, it is emblazoned with distinction on numerous military insignia.
• Blue Circle – The color blue matches the canton of the American Bag and signifies vigilance, perseverance,and justice. The circle shape and blue color also match the official seal of the Commemoration.
• Laurel Wreath – A time-honored symbol representing victory, integrity, and strength.
• Stripes – The stripes behind the eagle represent the American flag.
• Stars – The six stars represent the six allies who served, sacrificed, and fought alongside one another: Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Thailand,and the United States.
• Message – “A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You” is embossed on the back, closest to the heart of the wearer. Also, the official name of the Commemoration is included to remind each veteran that this is a national initiative,and this lapel pin is the nations’ lasting memento of thanks.

Locate upcoming commemorative events, for yourself or a loved one, visit http://www.vietnamwar50th.com/events/.