Marking the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, the Missouri State Fair’s Military Appreciation Day was dedicated to the state’s Vietnam veterans.
Governor Nixon addressed the veterans at the State Fair’s Military Appreciation Ceremony saying he was regretful for the lack of recognition they received when they returned home fifty years ago. He says for that, there is no excuse.
Nixon honored two Vietnam War Veterans at the ceremony. Gregg Davis lost both his legs and an eye in the war, and says the war affects him and other veterans still.
He says many veterans are still feeling effects of Agent Orange, a chemical with cancer-causing and other harmful side effects that was used widely during the war. Nixon says the thanks the Vietnam Veterans deserved was too far belated, and says he hopes this ceremony is a cue to the rest of the nation to make up for that.
Last year was the first year the State Fair had a Military Appreciation Day. Nixon says it’s a tradition the fair will continue every year from now on.(AUDIO) Allison Blood reports on Veterans Appreciation Day Mp3 1:03