“Michigan’s Vietnam veterans, whether drafted or enlisted, served our country with honor. Tragically, too many returned home with little thanks for their service and not much help transitioning to civilian life,” said Kowall, R-White Lake. “This lapel-pinning ceremony is a way to thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War era and their families for their service and sacrifice on behalf of a grateful nation and the Michigan Legislature.”
Members of the Vietnam Era Veteran Planning Committee at Cass Park in Detroit. Pictured, from left: Steve Genther, Masonic Temple manager; Sen. Mike Kowall, R-White Lake; Bob McDonald, Foundation for American Veterans; Dick Chatman, Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter 9; Tyrone Chatman, Veterans Foundation of Michigan; Paul Palazzolo, VVA Chapter 9; Phil Smith, Marine Corps League (kneeling); Mike Sand, VVA Chapter 9; Lynn O’Brien, district director, Office of Senate Majority Floor Leader Mike Kowall; Ed Tuggle, VVA Chapter 9; Detroit VA Healthcare System Volunteer and Community Relations Chief William R. Browning; Don Gore, GM Veterans Affinity Group; Ray Williams, Veterans Foundation of Michigan. Not pictured: George Adams, VVA Chapter 9. – Photo by Lynette Arlene