The community is invited to join local veterans and city officials on Friday for the Vietnam Veterans Day recognition in downtown Turlock.

The ceremony to honor those who served during the Vietnam War will begin at 10 a.m. Friday in Central Park in Turlock. The ceremony will begin with moment of silence and taps followed by guest speakers.

For the fourth annual commemoration ceremony Vietnam veterans, their families and the community are invited to attend and tie a yellow ribbon on the historic canon fence in honor, or memory, of a Vietnam veteran. All community members not in attendance are invited to tie a ribbon on the fence throughout the day.

The tradition of honoring Vietnam veterans began in June 2016. The City of Turlock joined with more than 10,000 other organizations to become official Vietnam Commemorative Partners. Commemorative Partners are local, state and national organizations, businesses, sports franchises and governmental agencies that have committed to hosting two hometown centered events and activities for at least three years to thank and honor Vietnam veterans, including unreturned veterans and their families.

Last year was Turlock’s third and final year of the Commemorative Partnership commitment, however, the city plans on recognizing the service of Vietnam veterans for years to come.

On March 29, 1973 the last American troops were withdrawn from South Vietnam, thus ending the longest war in the country’s history.  During this time, thousands of brave Americans served our country in this conflict with courage, honor and valor.  More than 58,000 individuals made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam and more than 300,000 more were wounded in combat.

Those individuals unable to attend the ceremony, but want to add a ribbon, can get a ribbon by visiting the Parks, Recreation and Public Facilities Office at 144 S. Broadway.