Three days of events have been planned to honor area Vietnam veterans beginning Monday, March 27, continuing through Wednesday, March 29.
The U.S. Senate designated March 29 as "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day" in 2011. On that day, veterans' groups around the country hold ceremonies, such as the service held last year at the National Cemetery in Chattanooga.
This year, a committee led by Bud Alley is working with Chapter 203 of the Vietnam Veterans of America and seven area chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution to plan events for Vietnam veterans. The local Welcome Home Celebration is sponsored by the city of Chattanooga and Hamilton County.
* Monday, March 27: An opening ceremony and free supper for Vietnam veterans will be held in First Tennessee Pavilion, 1826 Carter St., at 5:30 p.m. A ceremony to give veterans a Vietnam War commemorative lapel pin will be held.
Emcee Jed Mescon will welcome Col. Many Bears Grinder, Tennessee Commissioner of Veterans Affairs, along with veterans of the Battle of the la Drang Valley. Willie Kitchens, the McCallie Chorus and Jericho Brass will provide entertainment.
* Tuesday, March 28: Free screenings of "We Were Soldiers" at the Tivoli Theatre, 709 Broad St., at 10 a.m., 1:30 and 4 p.m.
The movie is based on the book, "We Were Soldiers Once and Young," written by Joe Galloway and retired Lt. Gen. Hal Moore. The film focuses on the roles of the 1st and 2nd battalions of the 7th Cavalry Regiment in the Battle of the la Drang Valley. Committee chairman Alley is also a veteran of that battle.
After each showing, there will be a panel discussion moderated by Galloway, featuring Col. Joe Marm and Sgt. Ernie Savage, soldiers from the movie, and other veterans.
While in town, Galloway will record memories of a dozen local veterans. These oral histories will be sent to the National Archives and the Department of Defense.
* Wednesday, March 29: A candlelight memorial will be held at the National Cemetery, 1200 Bailey Ave., at 6 p.m. The names of all area soldiers killed in action will be read during the service.
Galloway will be the featured speaker, and music will be performed by the Center for Creative Arts Chorus.
For more information, check the Facebook page, www.facebook.com/Wel comeHomeChattanooga 2017/