We must never forget that America remains the beacon of liberty and hope in the world because courageous men and women have risked — and continue to risk — their lives for freedom.
One of my greatest honors as your senator is taking part in tributes throughout southwest Michigan to thank our veterans for their outstanding dedication.
Michigan’s Vietnam veterans served our country with honor, yet they were often forgotten after returning home.
In commemoration of the 50-year anniversary of the Vietnam War, Senate Majority Floor Leader Mike Kowall and I will proudly host a ceremony in Bridgman to give long-overdue recognition to Vietnam War-era veterans and their families.
All our veterans deserve our respect and appreciation. I encourage southwest Michigan residents to come out and help us salute the enormous sacrifices and selfless dedication of our Vietnam veterans and their families.
The event will take place at 3 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 24, at the Bridgman American Legion Post 331, located on 4241 Legion St.
We will present a Vietnam War Commemorative Lapel Pin to any U.S. veteran who served on active duty at any time from Nov. 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, regardless of location.
This well-earned recognition is made possible by the U.S. Vietnam War Commemoration, which was authorized by Congress and established under the secretary of defense as a way to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families in hometown America. For more information regarding the commemoration, please visit vietnamwar50th.com.
We can never fully repay our Vietnam veterans and their families for the tremendous sacrifices they made in defense of freedom.
Understanding this debt, I look forward to honoring southwest Michigan’s Vietnam veterans for their service on behalf of a grateful nation. May God bless them and their families.
If you know a Vietnam veteran who should be honored, contact my office at (866) 305-2121 or by email at senjproos@senate.michigan.gov.

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents southwest Michigan.