Misunderstanding explained
After reading an article by Bob Dayner in the Herald-Standard saying that members of the Vietnam Veterans Inc. of Fayette County were insulted by comments from Dan Clark in reference to the Vietnam War Memorial, I find Dayner’s comments insulting and disgusting to every veteran.
Dan Clark is a proud veteran who served this country. He realized his responsibility to our community, state and nation in safeguarding the principles of freedom. Every veteran is charged with this who served and is serving in the armed forces of the United States.
I was involved in the design of the memorial, which hung in the Amvets prior to construction and now hangs in my home. The dedication took place in November of 1986 after working with Glenn Nielsen, who was the monument chairman and school students who provided the ideas.
In November 2006, the 20th anniversary of the memorial took place at the Amvets, and many veterans were present to salute those who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam.
In addition to the current memorial, in May 2008 an additional memorial was unveiled and dedicated to the memory of Samuel D. Shimek, who was never brought home and never had a proper burial. This memorial in the shape of a dog tab was created by Scott Brownfield as a senior class project. It’s located at the corner of Buttermilk Lane and Walnut Street in Hopwood.
Now to be clear, Clark was paying tribute to all veterans, not claiming credit for who built the memorial or provided the service. In addition, I don’t see anyone promoting themselves except some who apparently have hidden agendas at this post at the expense of the new officers.
A misunderstanding is all that took place here. Clark’s intent is honorable. If an apology needs to be made, Dayner owes it to every veteran who served or is serving in the armed forces of the United States.
And, yes, I’m a Vietnam veteran, 1963 to 1969, and a life member of this post who will always salute veterans.
Jim Killinger is a resident of Uniontown.