Having read that next March 30 will be Maryland's first "Vietnam Veterans Day," I can only say: "It's about time!" ("Hogan signs first bill -- one honoring Vietnam veterans," March 30).
The Vietnam War lasted from 1955 to 1975. It has taken some of us nearly 60 years to receive any recognition for our service.
Unfortunately, veterans returning home back then were generally looked down on by society. Some veterans had to change into civilian clothes in the airport bathroom on arrival in order to avoid name-calling, spitting, cursing, etc.
Some people have heard the stories. Most of them, unfortunately are true. I personally saw and experienced some of them. Yet about two years ago, for the first time in my life I was acknowledged for my service.
I was shopping at a store when a young girl came up to me and said: "Thank you very much for your service!" — all the while shaking my hand.
Well, I was befuddled. Then she pointed to my hat: "U.S. Army Vet," she said.
I took off my hat and, sure enough, I had just grabbed the hat, one of many I own, on my way out the door.
"Well Hon," I replied, "that was over 40 years ago for me."
And she said: "Doesn't matter. Thank you anyway."
That touched me in an unexpected way I had never experienced before. It made me think about the vets of that era and wonder if so many of them would have committed suicide, be homeless or become drug addicts if someone had acknowledged them earlier.
I hope and pray that the experts find answers for the veterans coming home today. My generation served in Vietnam and maybe now we can hold our heads high, but we should have been able to do that then.
Thomas B. Thompson, Severn