NE Valley Times

The United States is marking the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War in 2025. In honor of this milestone, Scottsdale is organizing a free lunchtime event on National Vietnam Veterans Day, March 29, at the Scottsdale Civic Center East Bowl. The event, hosted by the Scottsdale Veterans Advisory Commission, aims to show appreciation for those who served during the Vietnam era.

The gathering will include a complimentary lunch for registered guests and feature Frank Lambert as a special guest speaker. Lambert, a Scottsdale resident and West Point graduate, served with the 1st Air Cavalry Division in Vietnam. He was a company commander during the Tet Offensive of 1968 and received a Silver Star and Purple Heart for his service.

Registration is required to attend this public event. Interested individuals can RSVP through Calendar.OldTownScottsdaleAZ.com. The community is encouraged to attend to hear Lambert's story, which includes an account of how he and his troops were rescued from an ambush by a fellow officer who earned the Medal of Honor.

In March 2022, Lambert received the Storyteller Award from Imprints of Honor for sharing his experiences with others. His story has been featured in Veterans AZ, Scottsdale’s veterans video series and podcast.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to view a Vietnam-era OH-6 helicopter display provided by the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation (Southwest Chapter). Commemorative lapel pins for Vietnam veterans will be available from the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, along with materials for attendees to express their support for veterans.

March 29 has been recognized as National Vietnam War Veterans Day since 2017. It honors nine million Americans who served during the war and their families. In 2024, Scottsdale was recognized as a "Top Performer" by the U.S. Department of Defense among organizations participating in the U.S. Vietnam War Commemoration.

Another free event related to this commemoration is "The Vietnam Vets Top 20," hosted by Arizona Musicfest in partnership with Scottsdale's commemorative effort. This event will take place on March 21 at Arizona Musicfest in Scottsdale and features Doug Bradley discussing songs that resonated with veterans during the war era.

Space is limited for this event; registration is necessary.