In the spirit of humility and gratitude, we at the Gig Harbor Vintage Aero Museum find ourselves reflecting on a truly extraordinary event that unfolded within the wings of our cherished venue. It was a day filled with profound emotion, overdue appreciation, and an overwhelming sense of community.
The Heartfelt Gig Harbor Veterans Day Celebration
The Gig Harbor Veterans Day Celebration, held at our museum, was a testament to the collective efforts of many, embodying the true meaning of community support and honor. The dedicated staff at the Aero Museum proudly donated the use of our venue, contributing to the success of this remarkable event that brought together over 350 individuals eager to express their gratitude to Vietnam veterans.
A Backdrop of History: Honoring Vietnam Veterans
As we stand in awe of the courage and sacrifice of these veterans, the museum served as the backdrop for a heartfelt ceremony that aimed to correct the historical oversight of those who returned from an unpopular war without the warm welcome they deserved. It was an event steeped in emotion, a poignant reminder of the often-overlooked history that shaped the lives of those who served during a tumultuous time.
During the ceremony, emcee Greg Copeland eloquently captured the essence of the occasion, acknowledging the lack of recognition and fanfare that awaited these brave individuals upon their return. The standing ovation that Vietnam veterans received from the crowd was a heartfelt attempt to rectify the past and offer the appreciation that had been denied to them for far too long.
Voices of Resilience: Michael Mitchell and Bill Reeder
The powerful speeches of guest speakers Michael Mitchell and Bill Reeder provided firsthand accounts of the challenges faced by Vietnam veterans. Their stories of survival and resilience served as poignant reminders of the sacrifices made by these heroes. The emotional resonance of the day was further accentuated by musical tributes, a POW/MIA Missing Man Table ceremony, and the heartfelt rendition of “God Bless the USA.”
Acknowledgments and Thanks
As we look back on this solemn yet uplifting event, we are filled with pride in having played a small part in providing a space where the community could come together to express gratitude and respect. The Gig Harbor Vintage Aero Museum, with its expansive indoor event space—a unique gem on the Peninsula—stood as a backdrop for a day that sought to rectify history and honor those who gave so much.
Our heartfelt thanks go out to all who attended, the dedicated committee members, and the sponsors who made this day possible. It was an honor to be a part of an event that aimed to remove a bit of the shadow cast over the Vietnam War and bring forth a brighter, more appreciative atmosphere.
A Commitment to History and Honor
In the spirit of camaraderie and gratitude, we remain committed to serving our community and providing a space where history and honor converge. The Gig Harbor Vintage Aero Museum is more than a venue; it’s a place where stories unfold, and the legacy of our heroes takes flight.
Read more about the Veterans Day event at the Gig Harbor Now website.
