12:00 AM - 12:00 AM
The Henry Downs Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution hosted a special event honoring members of the United States of America military who were on duty during the Vietnam War. The Henry Downs Chapter is a “Proud Partner with the U.S.A. Vietnam War Commemoration” in recognition of the conflict’s 50th anniversary. All veterans of that era were invited to attend. The “Welcome Home” event began at 1:30 p.m. Friday, April 1 at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church in Waco, Texas. Our meeting included a program by Joyce “Donut Dolly” Denke, followed by a presentation recognizing the veterans in attendance for their valor, service and sacrifice.
Henry Downs Chapter Regent, Natishua Brandt, opened the ceremony with the “Call to Order”, the NSDAR ritual and gave a brief commemorative statement. We were honored with chapter daughter, Linda Pitzer and her husband, Vietnam veteran Everett Pitzer, singing the national anthem accompanied by Lisa Robinson. Robbie Moody played “Taps” as we took a moment to remember those who gave their life in the conflict.
Henry Downs Chapter Secretary, Bette Rudolph, introduced our keynote speaker, Joyce Denke. Mrs. Denke spoke of her service as a Red Cross Girl during the Vietnam War. Recounting her days visiting the soldiers in places such as Danang, Chu Lai, Quang Tri, Phu Cat, Long Binh, Cam Rahn Air and Army, Bien Hoa and doing clubmobile programs hosting the soldiers in talent shows, pool tournaments, jam sessions, “anything to keep their morale up.” Joyce told us lots of stories and closed with “…my feet have stood in some of the same places as yours. My heart has merged with yours. I have wept as you have wept. I am proud as you are proud. We as Red Cross girls couldn’t do what we most wanted to do…to keep you all safe.” Our “Donut Dolly” also recommends viewing the documentary, “A Touch of Home” featuring the Red Cross girls.