Appleton Chapter 351 Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) and their Associates continue to follow this creed.
Our programs are designed for fellow veterans, their families, and the community. Sometimes, the most important action is just being together. “We don’t always need to talk, we have all been there.” In sharing, perhaps there is one less loss.
Our members link veterans and their families to available services, finding help for benefits filings, social activities, and new interests.
Chapter 351 has hosted informational seminars on environmental and toxic exposures for military, families, and generations to come: “You can’t fix what you don’t know.” The educational presentation “Reflections of Vietnam” continues to bring an understanding of the military events from 1955 – 1975 to area high schools and the community. What was it like for soldiers of family members – your parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters? How did it change lives? In knowledge, perhaps there will be future peace.
To bring understanding and knowledge to a personal level, area senior high school students are eligible to apply for the Chapter 351 scholarship program. As part of the application, the students interview a Vietnam Veteran and write a narrative essay on what they have learned from the interview. Often the interview is with a family member and sharing a visible subject that has had little discussion before. This interview has changed lives, changed relationships, and bonded generations. “I chose to talk with Opa about his experiences after the war because I would like to help him if I can, and I felt that maybe by understanding that time better, I would find a way to help.” And another, “I recognize that I would not have had this conversation with my Grandpa if not for the interview component.”
In Spring with Memorial Day week and in Fall with Veterans Day, you will find VVA members bringing recognition to those who served and are unable to join in the community events. Our unique inter-active program is invited to six valley nursing/retirement homes twice each year.
Thank you
These and many other programs are important to us. With your support and generous donations we can say together “I’ve Got Your Six”
Appleton Chapter 351 Vietnam Veterans of America
Fundraiser June 20th and 21st
Woodman’s Grocery, 595 N Westhill Blvd
Festival Foods, 1200 W Northland Ave
