(Press Release) In 2012, a Presidential Proclamation was issued declaring March 29th Vietnam Veterans’ Day. It was stated that the day was being designated to mark the 50th anniversary of the first combat mission in Vietnam, in which United States pilots transported over 1,000 South Vietnamese soldiers over forbidding jungle to allow them to secure a Viet Cong stronghold near Saigon. The 11-year war saw over 3 million Americans military service provide support for the war effort. And over 58,000 of them lost their lives before the last soldier returned home on March 29, 1973.

Lake Havasu City, along with Veterans United Arizona Chairpersons, Frankie Lyons, and Sandy Seedorf, are planning the 2015 commemorative event on Sunday, March 29th. A presentation of colors by the Young Marines will occur at about 12:00, followed by a prayer by Sisto Sandoval, Chaplain and Vietnam veteran. Keynote speaker, Col. Joe Abodeely, Mayor Mark Nexsen, and State Representative Sonny Borrelli will deliver comments.

Contributing individuals and organizations include, Veterans United Arizona, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9401, the Marine Corps League, the American Legion, the American Legion Riders, the Military Moms, Donna Brister, Lake Havasu City Vice-Mayor, the Boy Scouts , and Donna Carlson, and Mayor and Mrs. Mark Nexsen. Anderson Toyota will supply food for 500 people. Tim Cullen is providing live music.

Veterans United Arizona has designed a challenge coin to be presented to Lake Havasu Vietnam veterans at the BBQ. Anyone wishing to sponsor a coin for $5.00 each can contact Frankie Lyons at (928) 302-9547.

The event is designed to honor and celebrate Vietnam veterans. The BBQ will be held on Sunday, March 29th from 11:00am until 4:00pm at London Bridge State Park. It is free to all veterans and is open to the community. Donations to support the event are greatly appreciated. For additional information, visit Facebook at Veterans United AZ or Vetsuniteaz.org