Twenty-first Star Chapter NSDAR Commemorates the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War
The Twenty-first Star Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution celebrated Veterans Day by having a luncheon commemorating the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Vietnam War at the Park Ridge Country Club. Veterans of the Vietnam War attended this event and were warmly received by attending chapter members and guests.
Mr. Lawrence Kantroski, Chief Service Officer of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3579, presented a program detailing the significant events of the war along with his own personal experiences. Mr. Kantroski served as a Light Weapon Repair Specialist with the 6th Battery, 27th Artillery Regiment from May 1966 to August 1967. He was first stationed at Bien Hon then moved to Lo Ho Bihn. His vivid memories of the War casualties being shipped home and of Vietnam civilians searching through troop garbage for food strongly described the realities of war. One of the happiest days of his life was flying home and seeing the smiling faces of his family waiting for him at the airport. His presentation made the sacrifices of all military personnel greatly appreciated by his audience.
Mr. Merton Fish was another Vietnam War Veteran who attended the luncheon. He served as an Army Staff Sargent with the 2nd Battalion, 94th Artillery. This Unit was reactivated on June 1, 1966 as a 175mm (SP) unit. The artillery shells fired from the thirty-four foot gun tube could reach a distance of over twenty miles. He was in charge of records and payroll for the battalion. The North Vietnam Army bombed his unit destroying the mess facilities and a tent that housed twenty men. Fortunately there were no casualties resulting from this attack.
Audience members had many questions and comments after the presentation. The Vietnam War was remembered by all those attending as a complex situation that made service more than just protecting our country. The bravery and sacrifice of the Vietnam era veteran is today well remembered and greatly appreciated.
The Twenty-first Star Chapter, in support of veterans, has joined as a commemorative partner in the commemoration of the Vietnam War. The commemorative partner program is designed for federal, state and local communities, veteran's organizations and other nongovernmental organizations to assist a grateful nation in thanking and honoring Vietnam veterans and their families.
This year marks the 125th anniversary of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The organization was founded in 1890 and is dedicated to historic preservation, education and patriotism. Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal decent from a patriot of the American Revolution, is eligible for membership. The DAR recognizes "Patriots: as not only soldiers but also anyone who contributed to the cause of American freedom." If interested in learning more about the Daughters of the American Revolution or attending one of our meetings, please contact Dorothy Wilson at (847) 328-6946 for further details.