A group of about two dozen men stood in front of the Belmont County Courthouse on a rainy day last week, receiving some long overdue recognition.

Each of those men played a role of one type or another in the Vietnam War. Some of them served on the front lines in the Vietnamese jungle. Others filled administrative positions or helped ensure justice was served among the ranks. But all of them answered the call of duty.

Post Commander Joe Barker served as master of ceremonies when American Legion Post 159 held a service Thursday to honor the men and women who served the nation during that conflict. The purpose of the event was to thank them for their sacrifices and to provide them with the welcome many of them did not receive when they returned home. More than 40 people turned out to participate, despite the damp, cool weather conditions.

Retired judge Harry White was the featured speaker. He served in the military himself from 1959-76 and as a Belmont County Western Division Court judge for many years. He reminded the audience of the turbulent times that surrounded the Vietnam War in America. During that period while many civilians disagreed about whether the United States should even be involved in the conflict, 58,267 military men and women gave their lives in the line of duty.

He also discussed the origins of the word “welcome,” which is derived from words for “upon arrival” and “worthy of admiration.” He said those veterans who returned from Vietnam were certainly worthy of other Americans’ admiration. While they deserved to be welcomed home decades ago, he said all veterans today deserve first-class health care and opportunities for education and employment.

White said he believes all Americans need to say two things to veterans of the Vietnam era: “Thank you” for your service, and “you’re welcome” back here at home.

We agree. All veterans of the U.S. military, even those who served during unpopular conflicts such as Vietnam, deserve to be recognized and honored for the sacrifices they have made for the nation and their countrymen.