Julien's Journal November 2015 (Volume 40, Number 11) | Page 31

Honoring
Our Veterans

by Pamela Brandt

In the November issue, Julien’s Journal honors and
acknowledges the work and dedication of former and
current members of the U.S. armed forces. Originally called
Armistice Day, in 1954 President Eisenhower signed a
bill proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day to honor
veterans of all wars and commemorate the efforts of the men
and women who keep our nation safe.

I

n Dubuque, a couple of outstanding events on November 17-18 will spotlight the heroism of individuals who served in Vietnam and the Middle East.
Taking place at the Heritage Center on the University of Dubuque (UD)
campus, the events are co-sponsored by the Sergeant Jeffrey B. Dodge
Veterans Center.

“We’ve put this package of events together in honor of those who are currently
serving or who have served in the military,” said Tom Robbins, executive director
of Heritage Center. “It’s an acknowledgement and a thank you. One night we’re
focusing on Vietnam; the next night we’re focusing on Iraq and Afghanistan.”

Last Days of Vietnam
On Tuesday, November 17 at 7:00 p.m., the public is invited to a free 20-minute
screening of the thought-provoking documentary, Last Days of Vietnam. Directed by Rory Kennedy (niece of President John F. Kennedy), the film describes
the heroism of U.S. service members during the evacuation of Saigon in the face
of imminent takeover by approaching communist forces.
“The screening is going to be showcasing some individuals who, on their own
volition, probably against regulations, tried to do the compassionate thing
to help South Vietnamese civilians,” said Rick Ernst, Veteran Admission and
Assistance Coordinator at UD. “It’s going to be a good look inside the human
factor involved in a war.”
November 2015  ❖  Julien’s Journal  ❖ 29