McGhee’s Capitol Report
It’s Long Past Time

This story will be listed under Veteran's Affairs, rather than the usual archive, should you need to find it in the future...The Webmistress
10/21/2005
Thirty years ago, the longest war in our nation's history came to a close. Some 2.8 million men and women had served in a far off land many of us today would not be able to find on a map, in the defense of freedom and liberty. 58,202 gave the last full measure of devotion; 1,411 were Missourians.
It is long past time to officially, as a state, recognize the sacrifices that were made so long ago by our friends, fathers, brothers and sisters. This is why when the Legislature convenes in January, I will be co-sponsoring with Representative Joe Smith of St. Charles, the Missouri Vietnam Veteran's Memorial Medal. This medal will be our official state award to recognize the sacrifices of those Missourians who served with honor and valor in the Republic of Vietnam.
While the exact design of the medal will be determined at a later date, I am envisioning a half-dollar size medallion, hanging from a red, white & blue ribbon. The medallion will have the state seal and say, "Welcome Home".
When our Vietnam Veteran's returned home, there were no parades, no bands playing, no official speeches thanking them for their service. Many experienced being spat on, sworn at, and treated with general disrespect. They were accused of being war criminals and baby killers. Their heroism and valor were not accepted, respected or recognized.
It is time, as a state, to say, "Welcome Home Soldier."