Vietnam War vets to be recognized at local ceremony

By L.J. Gambone
Apple Valley Review

Fifty years ago, the world witnessed the start of the long and costly Vietnam War, which pitted the communist regime of North Vietnam and its southern allies (known as the Viet Cong) against South Vietnam and its principal ally, the United States. More than 3 million lives were lost, 58,000 of them American.

While it may be hard to fathom, many dedicated men and women who served in Vietnam returned home to a public backlash. Over time, veterans of the war began to earn respect and receive recognition but Rep. Paul Cook believes more needs to be done to show appreciation for their dedication.

To that end, Cook will honor local veterans of the Vietnam War at his upcoming “Heroes of the 8th” ceremony on Nov. 13 at Sunset Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary, 24000 Waalew Road in Apple Valley.

“As a Vietnam War veteran, I remember vividly how we were treated when we returned home,” said Cook. “Our country was divided politically, which had a tremendous impact on the men and women who risked life and limb overseas. To endure what we experienced in battle and then to come home and be publicly ridiculed was nothing short of shameful.

“That’s why events like Heroes of the 8th are so important. Many veterans are still uncomfortable discussing their experiences in Vietnam and my hope is that they can see firsthand the appreciation our communities have for their service.”

According to Matt Knox, district director for Cook’s office, Cook is currently accepting nominations from the public for Vietnam vets who live in the 8th Congressional District that deserve to be recognized.

Completed forms can be dropped off at 14955 Dale Evans Parkway in Apple Valley. They also can be emailed to Kellie.Hartl@mail.house.gov, or faxed to 760-247-8073. The deadline for submissions is Oct. 16.

“We honored about 50 veterans at last year’s ceremony and are hoping to have that same of level of interest this time,” said Knox. “It’s a wonderful way to pay tribute to our military men and women and say thank you to them for what they did for us.”

Cook implemented his Heroes of the 8th ceremony and a variety of other public programs in 2012, when he was Col. Paul Cook and was elected to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives in November. He represents California’s 8th Congressional District, which includes the High Desert communities of San Bernardino County, as well as Mono and Inyo counties.

The former infantry officer served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps and also is a veteran of the Vietnam War. His actions in combat earned him a number of honors, including two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star Medal with a V for valor. He retired from the Marine Corps in 1992 as a colonel.

Prior to Cook being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, he represented the 65th Assembly District for six years in the California State Legislature and served on the Yucca Valley Town Council.

For additional information about Cook and his Apple Valley District Office, visit http://cook.house.gov or call 760-247-1815.