Vets from all branches, conflicts honored in LR

Retired Cpl. James Scott served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1965-69, including more than two years fighting in Vietnam.

When he returned stateside, after he was shot through the leg, he was greeted by his parents, sister and brother.

“That was the best homecoming anybody could ever have,” Scott said Monday. “I didn’t expect anything more and didn’t receive anything more.”

Scott was one of about 100 veterans who were recognized Monday at the state Veterans Day ceremony at the River Market pavilion in Little Rock. The event included representatives of all branches of the country’s armed forces and most of the major wars and conflicts from the past century.

Gov. Mike Beebe singled out veterans of the Vietnam War during the event, citing the mistreatment some received because of political animosity over the war.

All veterans “deserve our honor and respect,” Beebe told the crowd of about 200 people.

While not all veterans will discuss their experiences, Beebe said, it is important to recognize their service to the country. The governor told the story of six Arkansans who recently received French Legion of Honor medals and how some family members had never heard about their wartime history.

“It’s incumbent on all of us to let the world know the sacrifices of the men and women who wear a uniform both in peacetime and in war,” Beebe said.

Retired Col. John Dugan, a veterans service officer for the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs, said there are more than 22 million living American veterans. Dugan asked the crowd to thank a veteran or say a prayer for one.

“They travel the globe, they put their lives on the line for each of us each day and they deserve celebration - not just today but every day,” Dugan said.

Jack Ryan, chaplain for the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, said that some veterans suffer from their injuries, including post-traumatic stress disorder, long after they’ve left the battlefield.

“We are grateful for all who have served, whether in peacetime or in war, but today we especially remember those who have been tempered by fire, those who continue to bear wounds of body or spirit as a result of what they endured,” Ryan said.

U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor, state Sen. Jane English, and state Reps. Fred Love, Andy Mayberry and Ann Clemmer were among those who attended the Little Rock ceremony.

Dozens of other events were held around the state to commemorate the day, formerly known as Armistice Day.

Retired Senior Airman Penny Fogle, 61, said she was trying to attend as many Veterans Day events as possible and was going to speak with schoolchildren about serving in the military. Fogle served in the U.S. Air Force from 1979-85, including an assignment in Germany.

Fogle, who is black, said it was important for people to know that veterans come from all walks of life.

“A lot of children are not accustomed to meeting black females that are veterans, and I like every opportunity [that presents itself]; I get out there to let them know,” Fogle said. “I used to have a tag on my car that said, ‘Not all GIs are Joes.’”