SWAMPSCOTT — The E.F. Gilmore DAV of the North Shore announced it will sponsor a breakfast on March 28 honoring Vietnam veterans who served in the Armed Forces.
The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the Swampscott Senior Center, located at 200R Essex St., behind Swampscott High School. Commander Jeffrey Blonder said the date was selected because it aligns closely with March 29, 1973, the day the United States Military Assistance Command, Vietnam was officially disestablished.
Blonder noted it was also the date the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam. Around that same time, Hanoi released the last of its acknowledged prisoners of war. Blonder emphasized that the breakfast serves as an important reminder to recognize the sacrifices veterans have made in service of their country.
He added that this is the organization’s second annual breakfast honoring Vietnam veterans, and he hopes to continue the event for years to come.
Blonder reflected on what he hopes the community takes away from the event.
“I hope they remember all the veterans and remember the sacrifices they all have made,” Blonder said. “We also do a similar service, a Post 9/11 breakfast for veterans, too – so we kind of cover a full spectrum in that way.”
Blonder added that the organization is currently in talks to merge with the Peabody and Salem DAVs.
“They saw that we’re a very active organization in town and they want to help us,” he said.
“If there are any veterans out there who aren’t already members, I’d say the DAV is here to help with our services,” Blonder said.
Heidi Whear, the Senior Center’s director of aging services, also commented on the upcoming breakfast.
“I’m excited to see the veterans come, and we’re thrilled to be able to host the event here for them and to be able to provide a space for them to gather,” Whear said. “We’re very proud of their service, and we want to make sure they know how important their sacrifices are.”
