Blunt Honors Vietnam Veterans
JEFFERSON CITY– Gov. Matt Blunt announced that Vietnam Veterans are now eligible for special recognition through the Missouri Veterans Recognition Program, developed by the Missouri General Assembly, the Missouri Veterans Commission, Missouri National Guard and the governor.
"I am thankful that Missouri created this program that will acknowledge our Missouri Veterans who served during the Vietnam War," Gov. Blunt said. "The Vietnam War Medallion Program honors and provides a greater awareness of the sacrifices of the men and women who served in Vietnam."
"The Missouri National Guard is proud to help honor the service of our Vietnam Veterans," said Maj. Gen. King Sidwell. "Our Veterans recognition program, recognizing World War II and Korean War veterans has been such a privilege, it is fitting to now offer the distinction to our Vietnam Veterans."
The Vietnam War Medallion Program, with a medal, medallion and certificate, was created during the 2006 legislative session by House Bill 978. This program was modeled after the successful World War II and Korean Conflict award programs.
The Missouri Veterans Commission provided the design, and the Missouri National Guard is managing the program. A contract was recently awarded for the minting of the medals, and they should be available for distribution in late August or early September 2007.
To be eligible for the Vietnam War medal, medallion and certificate, the veteran must have been a legal resident of Missouri on August 28, 2006, or was a legal resident at the time he or she entered or was discharged from military service or at the time of his or her death. The veteran must have served on active duty in an U. S. military force any time during the period of February 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975. Applicants also must have been honorably separated or discharged from military service unless they are still in active service in an honorable status, according to the legislation. Vietnam War veterans, or the spouses or the eldest living survivor of deceased Vietnam War Veterans may apply for the award. The award is authorized regardless of whether or not such veteran served within the United States or in a foreign country.
Along with the application, Veterans will also need to submit a copy of their Record of Discharge or Separation from Service or Department of Defense Form 214 as documentation of active duty service dates and honorable discharge. The key point for supporting documentation is that it clearly shows active duty, dates of service and the type of discharge. Veterans should send only copies of their supporting documentation as these along with the application will be retained in the Missouri State Archives.
The Missouri National Guard continues to accept applications for the World War II and Korean Conflict awards.
Applications and a complete list of requirements for the Vietnam War, Korean Conflict and WWII awards are available on the Missouri National Guard Web site at www.moguard.com, by clicking on "Programs" and then clicking on "Veterans Awards", by calling toll-free 1-866-834-3431, or by mail at: Office of the Adjutant General, Attn: Veterans Recognition Program, P.O. Box 1808, Jefferson City, MO 65102. Veterans may also contact their local Missouri Veterans Commission office for information.
