March 27, 2010: A special ceremony held at Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza, 55 Water Street, NYC marked this official day of recognition by New York City and New York State.
“This is long overdue,” commented Patrick Gualtieri of United War Veterans Council, who hosted the event. The ceremony included the reading of all the 1,741 names of those service members (in NYC) that made the ultimate sacrifice. Also featured stirring remarks by Medal of Honor Recipient Paul Bucha; a wreath laying, music, refreshments and art on display.
On this day, UWVC hosted the Gold Star Mothers/Families. For some, it was their first time at Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza. For others, it was a reunion with old friends and comrades. By all measures, this was an incredible day mixed with bittersweet emotions; a much belated “Welcome Home” for our Vietnam Veterans.
