News

Published on: 3/28/2019

National Vietnam War Veterans Day will be recognized March 29 around York County through programs serving as a retroactive welcoming home for veterans who served in the Vietnam War. National Vietnam War Veterans Day is established in federal statutes thanks to local veteran Harold E. Redding’s work.

The Valley Street Bridge in Glen Rock will be dedicated March 29 and renamed the WO1 Martin E. Bixler Memorial Bridge. This ceremony starts at noon with a reception to follow at the American Legion Post 403, 4035 Manchester St. in Glen Rock. Martin Bixler, of Glen Rock, was an army helicopter pilot killed in action in the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action, the third highest valor distinction in the armed services.

Arrangements for this dedication are being coordinated by state Rep. Kate Klunk and her staff. Call her district office at 717-630-8942.

A second ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. March 29 inside the York Expo Center’s Horticulture Hall. Dr. Walter W. Brown II, Captain, U.S. Navy (retired), will be the keynote speaker. Harold E. Redding, a retired first sergeant of the U.S. Army and this year’s recipient of the George H. Eyler award for meritorious service, will also speak at this event. Vietnam War medallions will be presented to all veterans attending who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces any time from Nov. 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, regardless of location.

Arrangements for this dedication are being coordinated by Bob Glatfelter, president of Vietnam Veterans Chapter 1032. Contact him at 717-309-4612 or call the chapter at 717-292-3138.

The City of York will also display Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans banners over Continental Square and at George and Rathton streets to commemorate this special day.