If you are window-shopping as you stroll down Washington Street in downtown Lewisburg, you will see a display in the window of The Open Book that honors Veterans of the Vietnam War. It was placed there by the General Andrew Lewis Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution in partnership with the Department of Defense.
The 2008 National Defense Authorization Act instructed the Secretary of Defense to organize and conduct, “…a program to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.” The intent of the program is to thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War and to pay tribute to the contributions made on the home front by the people of the United States. The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was pleased and honored to be a part of this tribute.
Each chapter in the United States was asked to help with this program. Lewisburg’s General Andrew Lewis Chapter readily signed on to participate. JoLynn Ball agreed to serve as the chair of the committee that includes Sally Ford, Judy Deegans and Laura Loudermilk.
The window at The Open Book is designed to honor all local and surrounding area veterans of the Vietnam War. The phrase, “A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You” is a personal message on the flag that forms the backdrop of the window display.
Ball expressed the gratitude of the General Andrew Lewis Chapter to The Open Book for giving the Chapter the opportunity to, “Thank each and every veteran of the Vietnam War and to extend that thanks to their families and loved ones.”