By James Windell
Mayor Annie Brown was only 13 years old when the Vietnam War ended, but she can still remember hearing gunshots in her neighborhood signaling the ending of this most unpopular war. Even though she was a young teen, she was acutely aware of war.
Now, as mayor of South Haven, she has the opportunity of recognizing the veterans of the Vietnam conflict who in the 1970s were not given heroes’ welcomes.
On Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Welcome Home for Vietnam era veterans held at the South Haven American Legion Post #49, she presented a proclamation to the local veterans who gathered for the occasion.
Mayor Brown read the proclamation which in part acknowledged the sacrifices made by Vietnam era vets.
“These brave veterans served our nation with honor and sacrifice, often enduring hardships, challenges, and struggles both on the battlefield and at home,” the proclamation reads.
It goes on to state that “Despite the tremendous contributions of these service members, many Vietnam veterans were met with hostility and indifference upon their return, leaving a lasting impact on their well-being and the recognition they so rightfully deserved;…it is our solemn duty as a grateful nation to honor, acknowledge, and thank these veterans for their service, and to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.”
The proclamation ends: “Now, therefore, I, Mayor Annie Brown, on behalf of the City of South Haven extend a heartfelt and long-overdue welcome home to all Vietnam era veterans. We acknowledge your service, your sacrifices, and the invaluable role you played in defending the freedoms we hold dear. You are and always have been our heroes. We vow to honor your service, share your stories, and provide the support and recognition you have long deserved. Your bravery has shaped our nation, and your commitment to our country will never be forgotten.
“With this proclamation, we declare that you are, and always have been, cherished members of our national family. We commit to ensuring that the legacy of your service is passed on to future generations, so that the struggles and sacrifices of the Vietnam era will be remembered with the utmost respect and gratitude. Welcome home. Thank you for your service. Thank you for your sacrifice.”
She handed the proclamation to Post Commander John Barkley on behalf of all South Haven Vietnam veterans.
“Mayor Brown’s heartfelt Proclamation supporting our Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Ceremony added further importance and recognition, a more formal layer, to our ceremony,” Barkley said. “We were all grateful for the proclamation, her presence and her continuing selfless service to our community and our veterans.”
