Pins were presented to Vietnam War Veterans Wednesday. Photo by Sally Y. Hart

Wednesday was Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day and Washington County’s Veterans Affairs Office held an event. A handful of veterans from the Vietnam War attended and chatted over cake and coffee. Topics of conversation included what it was like when they returned home, family members in the service today, and their activities in retirement, as well as smartphones. Sue Rich, Washington County Veterans Service Officer, said she thinks it’s an important thing to do, “I believe that all of our veterans need to be recognized. … Hopefully they can get together and have some comradery, enjoy some cake, and just let us thank them for their service.”

Rich explained her office offers many services for local veterans including helping with emergency needs like rent and utilities, state benefits, the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund, federal claims, and getting enrolled with healthcare with the V.A. in Iowa City. Rich also has applications for Honor Flights, where veterans are taken to Washington, D.C., to see memorials. She explained those flights have expanded and Korean War and Vietnam War veterans are welcome to apply.