Support sought for Vietnam War 50th anniversary luncheon

On Sept. 14, Purdue will host a commemorative luncheon in honor of the ongoing 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. The 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration Committee is seeking support to provide this luncheon at no cost to Vietnam era veterans and their families, specifically Purdue alumni and those living in the Lafayette area and surrounding communities.

The luncheon will acknowledge veterans, prisoners of war, and those listed as missing in action from the Vietnam War and show appreciation to veterans and their families for their sacrifice.

“Many veterans returned home from the war without a proper homecoming. There were no parades, no fanfare and little words of appreciation. In fact, many were treated with open hostility,” said Jamie Richards, director of the Veterans Success Center. “This event is just one small way out community can thank and honor those brave service members.”

The committee aims to raise $12,000 between now and mid-August to provide meals for 375 people. There are opportunities for sponsorship at various levels. Donations are tax-deductible and anonymous sponsorship is available. Donations can be made online at http://giving.purdue.edu/Vietnam50.

Donations received above and beyond the needs of this luncheon will be used to support future Vietnam commemorative events.

Vietnam-era veterans are invited attend to the luncheon with a guest. Advance registration is required as seating is limited, but there are no assigned seats. Registration can be found here.

The luncheon will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Lafayette National Guard Armory, 5218 Haggerty Lane, Lafayette.

The Purdue University Vietnam Commemorative Committee is a volunteer group of staff members and retirees who plan events to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families, including those who lost loved ones during the war. The committee is led by Darrell Katovisch, a Vietnam veteran and Purdue alumnus. The Veterans Success Center, Purdue Student Veterans Organization, Purdue Memorial Union, Purdue Alumni Association and Army ROTC also are participating in the luncheon.

For more information, contact Melissa Widhalm, fundraising chair, at 765-494-8191 or mwidhalm@purdue.edu.

Writer: Kelsey Schnieders Lefever, kschnied@purdue.edu
Sources: Melissa Widhalm, Purdue University 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration Committee fundraising chair, 765-494-8191, mwidhalm@purdue.edu
Jamie Richards, director of the Veterans Success Center, 765-494-5708, richa186@purdue.edu