American Legion Post 88 Commander Carl Lassiter was one of the Vietnam War veterans who attended Friday’s ceremony at Turlock’s Public Safety Facility.

“It means a lot to us as Vietnam veterans, because it was a tough time coming home. I came home in 1970 from Vietnam and we were not appreciated. We didn’t wear our uniforms in public when we got here. So, it’s nice that the City of Turlock holds this every year for the Vietnam veterans. We really appreciate it,” he said.

Turlock Mayor Amy Bublak, state Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil and Air Force veteran Bob Boyd spoke at the Vietnam Veterans Day event on Friday, and then attendees were able to tie yellow ribbons in honor of Vietnam veterans onto the corresponding flag pole for their loved one’s branch of miliary service.

“Thank you to all the Vietnam veterans that are here in attendance and for your service to our country, whether you were in combat in the jungles of Vietnam or assigned to a base in the rear or driving supplies up and down the country, or a fighter pilot flying combat missions, all count. All gave some and some gave all. Thank you so much for serving our country,” said Boyd.

On March 29, 1973, the last American troops were withdrawn from South Vietnam, thus ending the longest war in U.S. history. More than 58,000 individuals made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam and more than 300,000 more were wounded in combat.

Vietnam Veterans Day began in 2012 with a Presidential proclamation which sought to have the nation stand to honor the service and legacy of Vietnam veterans on the 50th anniversary of the end of the conflict.

In June 2016, the City of Turlock joined more than 10,000 organizations who have 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 on behalf of the nation. 2018 was the third and final year of the Commemorative Partnership commitment, however the City’s stated it will further its commitment to these veterans.