NE Valley Times

The city of Scottsdale is set to honor Vietnam veterans with a special event on Saturday, March 29, as part of the United States' commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. The event will take place at 11 a.m. at the Scottsdale Civic Center East Bowl and is hosted by the Scottsdale Veterans Advisory Commission.

This community gathering aims to show appreciation for those who served during the Vietnam era. It will feature a complimentary lunch for registered guests and a speech by Frank Lambert, a Vietnam veteran and Scottsdale resident. Lambert, who graduated from West Point, served with the 1st Air Cavalry Division in Vietnam. He was a company commander during the Tet Offensive in 1968 and earned both a Silver Star and Purple Heart.

"Vietnam veterans, family members, and the community are encouraged to attend," organizers stated. Attendees will have an opportunity to hear Lambert's story, which includes being rescued from an ambush by another officer who received the Medal of Honor.

In addition to Lambert's address, there will be a display of a Vietnam-era OH-6 helicopter provided by the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation (Southwest Chapter). Commemorative lapel pins for Vietnam veterans will also be available courtesy of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration.

Since its inception in 2017, March 29 has been recognized as National Vietnam War Veterans Day in honor of nine million Americans who served during that time. In recognition of its efforts related to this commemoration, Scottsdale was named a "Top Performer" by the U.S. Department of Defense in 2024.

Another free event titled "The Vietnam Vets Top 20" will take place on Friday, March 21 at Arizona Musicfest in partnership with Scottsdale's commemorative effort. This event features Doug Bradley discussing songs significant to many veterans' experiences during their service.

Both events require registration due to limited space availability.