Over 100 Vietnam Veterans gathered at Cassadaga Valley High School on July 1st to be a part of a commemorative pin ceremony.

“This is truly one of the most meaningful things that I have done as a member of congress," stated Nick Langworthy, U.S. Congressman for the 23rd District of New York. "To hold this event and honor the sacrifices of our Vietnam Veterans.”

Congressman Nick Langworthy hosted the event in Sinclairville, New York in partnership with the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration to honor all Vietnam war era veterans in Chautauqua County.

Each veteran was welcomed to the stage to receive a pin from the congressman, a small token of appreciation for the sacrifices they made fifty years ago.

“It’s a true honor to be here, and to be a part of this," stated PJ Wendell, Chautauqua County Executive. "It’s so important to honor these men and women, some fifty years later. When they came home, they were not greeted with the respect they deserved. It's just sad that it's taken this long for them to be recognized.”

"It’s finally the welcome that is well deserved for our Vietnam vets,” added Michael Ferguson, Mayor of the Village of Fredonia, New York. "We are proud to be honoring the brave men and women who served in the war here today."

“As a daughter of a veteran, this is important for my family," stated Ronnette Riforgiat, Daughter of Veteran. "They are finally getting the homecoming that they deserved, that they didn’t get.”

"It really is like the homecoming we never had," said Daniel Barlette, Vietnam Veteran.

“I think it’s fantastic that the government is coming back out and recognizing what happened to our generation,” stated Henry Link, Vietnam Veteran. 

Congressman Langworthy will be holding another commemorative pin ceremony in Horseheads, New York, July 2nd and plans to continue to hold these events throughout the 23rd district this year.

For more information about this event, visit here.