African American Military Museum celebrates anniversary, honors Vietnam War Veterans

HATTIESBURG, MS. - The African American Military Museum (AAMM) celebrated its 8th year anniversary and honored Vietnam War veterans Thursday.

The museum partnered with the Vietnam War Commemorations Program (VCWP) to honor Vietnam War veterans twice a year between 2016 to 2018.

The VWCP is a national group that supports other organizations that aim to honor Vietnam veterans.

AAMM's General Manager Latoya Norman said, “Basically just want to say thank you and just let them know how much we appreciate their sacrifice."

She added, "With Vietnam War Veterans we know their homecoming was not very welcoming. So we just want to let them know, hey we love you, we pray for you, and we just thank you for all that you have done, and all that you continually do.”

The museum recognized veterans with a pin and service award. James Simmons, 84, served in the U.S. army for 22 years and participated in two Vietnam tours.

“I feel good being recognized, I feel good. All too often we are not recognized" said Simmons.

He continued," I couldn’t ask for anything better to remember those.”

AAMM will host its fourth Vietnam War Commemoration Program in December.