Oconto County Sheriff’s Department

Nov. 1

More than 2.7 million military personnel (Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard) actively served in Vietnam, with 1 million to 1.6 million who either fought in combat, provided close support or were at least fairly regularly exposed to enemy attack.

Vietnam veterans weren’t discharged back home with parades or recognition of any kind. This was unlike military who returned home from other wars.

When World War II veterans returned from the war, they were treated as heroes, with parades and other celebrations.

Multiple federal and state government programs were created to help them return to life at home. Various veteran groups welcomed them to join.

During the Vietnam War era (Aug. 5, 1964, to May 7, 1975), there were a total of 9,087,000 active military members. Of those, 6,377,082 never served in Vietnam.

The military personnel who didn’t serve in Vietnam were stationed in the United States and all over the world. They served in various categories, many duties directly related to supporting the troops in Vietnam.

Vets 4 Vets of Northeast Wisconsin will honor local veterans during its 24th annual Veterans’ Appreciation Spaghetti Dinner from 3-6 p.m. Nov. 11 at Red Maple Country Club, 501 Golf Course Road, Suring.

Organizers of the Veterans Day gathering invite veterans, their families, friends and community members to share a meal while supporting efforts to assist and recognize those who have served.

The Shawano School District will host veterans, their families and community members in a special Veterans Day celebration Nov. 10 at Shawano Community High School, 220 County Road B, Shawano.

Attendees should use Entrance 1 or Entrance 35.

The morning will begin with breakfast at 8:30 a.m., followed by an anticipated Blackhawk helicopter landing at 9:30 a.m. The Veterans Day ceremony will begin at 9:45 a.m.