A Lasting Memento of the Nations Thanks

Arrowhead Valley Chapter NSDAR held their annual "Veterans Salute" program.  This year’s program featured four Vietnam Veterans who grew up and went to school in San Bernardino and Redlands. Bill McCalmon, 1982 Redlands “Man of the Year” recipient and Chairman of the Redlands 4th of July Committee for forty-four years, led the program. Participating were Jim Eastwood, Joe Frink, and Mick Gallagher, 1965 Redlands High School classmates.  Speakers told of their experiences during and after the war.  Following the program, Arrowhead Valley Chapter proudly partnered with the “The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration” in recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War.  In a public and dignified ceremony, on behalf of a grateful nation, Chapter Regent Patricia Westerfield had the honor of presenting the Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin to Inland Empire residents John Allevato, Al Schwartz, Bill McCalmon, Jim Eastwood, Joe Frink, Mick Gallagher, Carol Barr, Al Reid, and Bill Buchanan.  All veterans were thanked and provided with a copy of the Presidential Proclamation and the supporting material that explains the symbolism and significance of the lapel pin.      The program was followed with the presentation of a Flag Pin and small American flag to other Veterans Ron Harms, Curt Zevenbergen, and Yvette Birdsall, all of whom gave a brief overview of their service.  By presidential proclamation on May 25, 2012, the Commemoration extends from Memorial Day 2012 through Veterans Day 2025.  Living United States veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time during the period of November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975, regardless of location, are eligible to receive one lapel pin. The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism. Its members are descended from the patriots who won American independence during the Revolutionary War. Arrowhead Valley Chapter counts among its members those who work or live in the Inland Empire.