Military Appreciation From A Vietnam Veteran

The returning Home from Vietnam in 1968 to my Home in Pittsburgh, Pa was an unforgettable time in my Life!

 I was informed in mid November, 1968 that my tour was up and I was being sent Home. The whole return experience took 72 Hours from the time I was ordered to depart. It took 3 Flights from Qui Nhon until I arrived in Pittsburgh.

I was met at the Airport by Shirl, my Wife, and my Parents. We were told not to wear our Uniform because Vietnam Veterans were very poplar in the USA at that time! However, I disregarded that advice and arrived in Uniform which I was proud to do!

Since I had decided to extend for another year I was given a 30 Day Leave before we had to report back to Fort Story as an MP Captain. Shirl and I took a week to be alone and reconnect our Life together!

We were separated for our first Wedding Anniversary and she had become pregnant in Hawaii as a result of 4 Day R&R I got while in Vietnam. I reconnected with my Family during that period.

We reported after 30 Days to Fort Story in VA Beach where I was assigned as the Provost Marshal.

I am sure the extra year of Active Duty made it a lot easier to adjust. I was surrounded with other Veterans who had also Served in Vietnam and we shared our feelings.

We spent a year at Fort Story and then returned to our Civilian life better prepared as a Proud Vietnam Veteran who had served His Country!

Additional Note: Walt and his wife Shirl continue to serve their community in their volunteer endeavors. Walt the former Commander of American Legion Post 29, Shirl as an Executive Board Member of the Auxiliary and Past President of the Elks. Today, Walt is a Board Member of the Georgia Veterans Network and continues to serve his fellow Veterans through the American Legion and other opportunities including participation in the "Live Fire Episode 17" with Rally Point Grille.

Walt, Welcome home!