Vietnam War veterans honored at Islip ceremony

Officials from the Town of Islip hosted a ceremony this week to honor veterans of the Vietnam War.

The ceremony was held at the town’s Vietnam Memorial Garden located outside Islip Town Hall West. The event was capped off with a pin ceremony where each veteran received a pin gifted by the U.S. Department of Defense commemorating their service, as well as an additional pin for family members who supported them through their tour.

Joining town officials were Steve Castleton, retired civilian aide to the secretary of the U.S. Army, and members of American Legion Rusy Bohm Post 411 and AMVETS, to recognize the anniversary of March 29, 1973, when the last American troops were withdrawn from Vietnam.

“We are honored to give a proper welcome home to the veterans who served with distinction during one of our nation’s most challenging chapters,” said Councilman John Lorenzo, town liaison to the Veterans Advisory Board. “We would like to thank each and every service member of the Vietnam War.”