Ellsworth honors Vietnam veterans during flag unveiling ceremony

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rebecca R. Imwalle
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Airmen, family members, civilians and base leaders came together to celebrate the service and sacrifices of our nations Vietnam war veterans during a flag-unveiling ceremony in the base Commissary Nov. 8.

Col. Thomas Goulter, 28th Mission Support Group commander, started the ceremony which coincided with the 50th anniversary of the start of hostilities in Vietnam by outlining the purpose of the event: recognizing the contributions and service of all military members who served in Vietnam.

"Of all the battles and wars the U.S. military has seen, Vietnam is especially personal," Goulter said. "It was the first war where for the first time, the fighting was brought into Americas own living rooms."

After his address, Goulter introduced retired U.S. Army Master Sgt. Niles Harris, Vietnam War veteran and guest speaker at the event.

"I was assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, and was a part of Operation Hump, a search and destroy operation, during which 48 Soldiers lost their lives," Harris said, recalling a small part of the tremendous price paid by military members.

Harris expressed his appreciation to those in attendance, adding that he is glad that the American public has come to recognize the contributions of all Vietnam veterans.

"This flag displays the words service, valor and service," Goulter said. "These veterans served when serving was not popular... they were valorous."

Goulter added that we can see the hope, compassion, and courage shining through even in the most trying times in all of our nations veterans.

"Thank you for leading the way," Goulter said. "We appreciate your service and all that you've done to pave the road for today's servicemembers."