PANTHER VALLEY JUNIOR ROTC AMERICAN FLAG CEREMONY

COALDALE, PA 1:30 PM APRIL 17, 2013

REMARKS TO ATTENDEES AND PV JROTC

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN; VETERANS. THANK YOU FOR ATTENDING OUR RAISING OF THE NEW GIGANTIC AMERICAN FLAG OVER COALDALE.

A SPECIAL THANKS TO THE PANTHER VALLEY JUNIOR ROTC FOR AN OUTSTANDING JOB. SFC JORDAN; AND CADET BATTALION COMMANDER COLIN JOHNSON; YOU ARE TO BE COMMENDED. WE ALL ARE JUSTLY PROUD OF YOU.

This year marks the fiftieth anniversary of the beginning of the Vietnam War. It cost the lives of nearly sixty thousand men and women killed in action (KIA) or who died as the result of combat. Our longest war cost hundreds of thousands of wounded and psychologically traumatized veterans; and those who loved and prayed for their safe return.

When our military returned from Vietnam, they were met with derision and hatred; called "baby killers" and even spit upon by activist teams stationed at our airports.

In retrospect, our government leaders; our diplomats, and even our top military generals failed in their obligations to provide the best military equipment and support our military so justly deserved. Those who served were severely handicapped and exposed to extreme danger and often death through our government’s lack of support, poor judgment, and underestimation of our enemy. In spite of this, our military performed with honor and distinction; with little recognition or thanks at the time.

Fortunately, time has healed our Country, and the sacrifices of those who served with honor in Vietnam are being understood and recognized. Please pray for and thank God for our Vietnam veterans; many who are entering the latter phases of their lives. Honor their service, sacrifice, and heroism.

Thank You. William Gaddes

GOOD LUCK PV JROTC IN C.Y. 2013-2014. WE WILL PREVAIL!

THANK YOU FOR ATTENDING. THIS CONCLUDES OUR SERVICES