The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs will host the 2016 Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day Ceremony on Friday, May 6, 2016. The ceremony will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial located south of the Iowa State Capitol building in Des Moines.  Governor Terry E. Branstad who was governor in 1984 when the monument was dedicated will officiate the ceremony and make remarks.

This year’s ceremony includes the unveiling of a new plaque dedicated to the honor of the many Americans and Iowans that served in Vietnam and Southeast Asia who have for many years have suffered from the effects of their duty.  This new Iowa Vietnam War In-Memory Memorial Plaque will be located along the sidewalk leading to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and is dedicated to their honor and memory.

Many service men and women who served during this war continue to suffer and have had premature deaths related to their service.  These deaths are the result of Agent Orange-induced illnesses, post-traumatic stress injuries, and a growing number of other registered causes.  These service men and women are the “hidden casualties of Vietnam.”  The new plaque reflects on these Iowans and provides a lasting monument to their memory and service.

Colonel Robert C. King (Ret), Executive Director, Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs, encourages Iowans to attend the ceremony that honors and commemorates our state’s Vietnam veterans who returned from the war and those who gave their lives in the fight for the freedom of others.

AMVETS Post 2 will host a luncheon following the ceremony at their post located at 2818 – 5^th Street.  The free lunch is being provided by Disabled American Veterans (DAV).