Clayton Beeter, pitcher for the Washington Nationals, signs an autograph for Vietnam veteran Norman “John” Ferrero prior to a home game Wednesday against the St. Louis Cardinals. (Washington Nationals)
WASHINGTON — Fifteen Vietnam-era veterans representing the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Women’s Army Corps were recognized Wednesday at the Washington Nationals game against the St. Louis Cardinals.
The tribute was part of AARP’s Wish of a Lifetime Program, honoring the contributions of Vietnam-era veterans.
The veterans, all from Wyoming, received a six-day, all-expense-paid trip to the nation’s capital, which runs through Saturday.
The program aims to bring attention to the service of Vietnam veterans, many of whom are in their 70s and 80s.
A group of Vietnam-era veterans from Wyoming were honored at a Washington Nationals ballgame Wednesday as part of AARP’s Wish of a Lifetime Program. Their military service spanned the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Women’s Army Corps. (Washington Nationals)
Of the 2.7 million service members deployed to Vietnam between 1955 and 1975, fewer than 850,000 are alive today, according to Disabled American Veterans.
In addition to attending the baseball game at Nationals Park, the participants — along with spouses and chaperones — toured the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, U.S. Capitol and Arlington National Cemetery.
At Nats Park, the veterans took part in pre-game activities, the ceremonial first pitch and “Play ball!” announcement.
The group also was introduced to fans during the fifth-inning break.
“As America comes together to celebrate 250 years, these veterans have come together to share their stories, honor their fallen brothers and sisters, and build new bonds,” the Nationals said in a prepared statement.