It's promising to be the largest public event in North Carolina history. It will be aired live from the Charlotte Motor Speedway infield on the world's largest HDTV.
USO of North Carolina, Charlotte Motor Speedway and North Carolina Association of Broadcasters are leading organizations planning the upcoming Vietnam Veterans Homecoming Celebration for March 31st, 2012.
"There is a ground swell of support for our military, and it's time to recognize our Vietnam Veterans and all those who have served." Doug Rice of the Performance Racing Network
"This is a celebration of military service for those who served our nation during a difficult time." USAF Lt. Gen. Tom Waskow (Retired)
Representatives from the VFW, Rolling Thunder North Carolina Chapter 2, North Carolina Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Military Order of the Purple Heart Charlotte Chapter 634 attended the news conference.
President of the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters Danny Highsmith says the speedway event will receive live simultaneous coverage on every TV and radio station in North Carolina.
"A lot of men (Vietnam Veterans) are still hurting." U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran and Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Charlotte Chapter 634 Mike Stubbs
"I run across people that still don't want to get involved and talk about it." Larry Rick, Member of the MOPH Charlotte Chapter 634
Organizers are projecting an attendance of 50,000 Americans. Highlights will include:
- Live entertainment
- Rolling Thunder Rally
- Vietnam Memorial Display
- Wreath Laying Ceremony
- Military Films
- Displays and Demonstrations
- Wellness
- Assistance to widows
- Fireworks
Pulitzer Prize winning Vietnam combat photographer David Kennerly will present a special exhibit. Kennerly served in Vietnam for over two years. He says soldiers need help and understanding when they return home. "The USO North Carolina is playing a big part in this," he says.
"It's an honor and privilege to recognize our Vietnam war heroes. They didn't receive a proper welcome when they came home." Danny Highsmith, President of North Carolina Association of Broadcasters.
Go here to reserve a free ticket or call 1-800-455-3267.
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