A half century ago, the United States entered into a military conflict in a relatively unknown country in southeast Asia. On Sept. 21, 2015, the Charles E. Sherman Jr. American Legion Post 36 honored 26 local veterans for serving in the Vietnam War.

During a ceremony, the veterans were presented with a certificate of appreciation and a commemorative coin from Maine Veterans Services director Adria O. Horn. The certificate read: “In recognition of their honorable service during the Vietnam war. We, the citizens of Maine, express our sincere appreciation for your sacrifice, courage, and willingness to serve our great nation. How proud the citizens of Maine are of you, and thank you, for your contribution.”

The certificate was signed by Gov. Paul LePage and Maine Air National Guard Commander Brigadier General Gerard F. Bolduc. The commemorative coin has 16 pine cones and 320 small dots. The pine cones signify each county. The dots represent Maine veterans who died during the Vietnam War.

Horn told local veterans the ceremony is part of the Maine Veterans Services partnering with the national 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War to honor veterans.

“We’re sorry it’s taken 50 years to let you know how appreciative the state is of your service.The Maine Veterans Service is thankful to all of you for what you’ve done, ” she said.

The Maine Veteran Service also plans on honoring World War II, Korea, Gulf War, War on Terror, and female veterans in a similar fashion, according to Horn.

The new director is a 2001 West Point graduate and serves as a major in the U.S. Army Reservist with the Pacific Command. She was deployed five times in the Global War on Terror during her 14-year Army career.

In April, she succeeded Peter Odgen who concluded 11 years as Maine Veterans Services director. Horn encouraged all Maine veterans to contact her office with any questions about their benefits. Horn believed many veterans who suffer from combat related issues are reluctant to access benefits they’ve earned.

She encouraged them to think differently, and not succumb to believing other veterans’ ailments are more deserving. She told them veterans are entitled to such benefits as doctor’s care, assisted living programs, and burial in a military cemetery.

“You didn’t have to be shot in combat to qualify,” she said. “You’ve earned those benefits, so don’t leave them on the table.” 

She encouraged all veterans to contact her at the Maine Veterans Service offices in Augusta. Horn’s job is ensuring veterans access the benefits in both state and national programs. In Maine, her department is focusing on veterans’ employment, education and homeless programs.

Horn said her major challenge is notifying Maine veterans about her office’s existence.

“It’s been a cabinet level state agency since 1947. I’m sure most of you probably never heard of it,” Horn said. “But I’m here to let you know we’re here for you.”

The Vietnam War lasted from 1959-75. The U.S.’s military involvement began in 1964. Vietnam War American military deaths totaled 58,307.

The local Vietnam Veterans ceremony was held Sept. 21 in the Charles E. Sherman Jr. Post #36 American Legion Hall in Boothbay.