National Vietnam War Veterans Day is today, March 29.
In an effort to pay tribute to the millions of Americans who served their country during this time, American Legion Post 249 will have a special gathering at the McFall-Grisham Post 249, 220 E. Yosemite Ave., from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
According to Past Commander John Aguilar and Jack White, American Legion Post 249 are inviting all veterans and their families to stop by for hotdogs, chips, cookies, and water at the hall for a get-together.
On display will be military vehicles on display, including Jeeps and Hummers.
The hall will also have an open house along with recruiting of new members.
Aguilar and White noted a significant drop-off of members at American Legion Post 249 in recent years. At one point, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, membership was “nearly 200,” according to Aguilar.
In order to join, veterans of the armed forces must have received an honorable discharge or a discharge under honorable condition, or still serving in order to be eligible.
American Legion Post 249 has also been looking upgrade the aging facility built in 1929 during the past 12 years. The only work in recent years was the addition of the ADA ramp for handicap access to the entrance of the building from the parking lot.
More is needed.
White said the remodeling project is currently in plan check with the City of Manteca. “We’re looking at removing the stage and the stairs leading to the restrooms, and making everything all at one level,” he said.
American Legion Post 249, in addition, placed a “Vietnam: All Gave Some, Some Gave All” featuring Mantecans who gave their all during this time.
Included are Brock D. Elliott, Jack Landers, Joseph Tafoya, James Earl Lowry, Charles M. White, Fredrick G. Lopez, William McJimsey, David E. Gore, Jessee E. Rodriguez, Carl L. Borgen, Robert M. Davenport, Joseph A. Lewis, Bruce M. Sours, Larry K. Motley, W. Grant Uhls, Leslie W. Morgan, and Gale Butcher.
For more information on the local Vietnam War Veterans Day event, call 209.823.4123.
