Over 30 Vietnam-era veterans and their guests were welcomed home and recognized for their service on March 26 at Dashiell-Barlow American Legion Post 49 in Smithfield.

A dinner was hosted by the Legion to show community appreciation for the service of local veterans who fought in that war or served in the military during that time.

Charlie More, Post Chapel, conducted a ceremony to recognize the veterans, awarding them the official gold lapel pins acknowledging their service.  The guest speaker, retired Army Brig. Gen. Jeff Horne of Smithfield, thanked the veterans for their sacrifices and noted that they were the foundation for making the U.S. military the effective fighting force it is today.

Thirteen veterans shared their personal experiences serving during that time and in the Vietnam theater of war.

Cockeyed Rooster Café of Smithfield catered the dinner and the TRADOC U.S. Army Band provided musical entertainment during and after dinner.

American Legion Department of Virginia Eastern Region Vice Commander Joe Garlitz and American Legion District Commander Jim Knowlton also attended.