CHESTER, S.C. — The town of Chester honored the widows of service members who served in the Vietnam War as part of its Memorial Day event.
Four groups, including the Disabled American Veterans and the Chester Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary, were on hand to honor and remember 20 veterans who served in the Vietnam War, as well as their surviving spouses.
Each woman has her own unique story, like Hazelene Sanders, whose husband Charles Sanders served as a Marine in the Vietnam War.
“It means a lot to me because I know that if he were here, he’d be really proud and happy to be recognized today," said Sanders.
The Sanders were married for 53 years and had seven children, but memories of the war often caused Charles to have sleepless nights.
Brenda Sue Lindsay says her husband, George Lindsay, also struggled when he returned home from the war. She was married to the marine for 52 years.
“You know he did it because he wanted to. He fought for his country because he wanted to," said Lindsay, "And it just means a lot to me that people would recognize him for what he did.”
Over and over, the women said they’re grateful that people remembered what Memorial Day is really all about, and the faces behind the holiday.
Barbara Westbrook, who was married to Billy Westbrook, also a marine veteran, said that’s perhaps the most important part.
“Every day you just keep living and you think nobody cares what we do," said Westbrook, "And today shows so many of these people [do]."
Each of the 20 widows received a blue star lapel pin and a certificate from the Department of Defense.
For decades, Memorial Day was observed on May 30, the date selected for the first decoration day. But in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May.
WCNC Charlotte is committed to reporting on the issues facing the communities we serve. We tell the stories of people working to solve persistent social problems. We examine how problems can be solved or addressed to improve the quality of life and make a positive difference. WCNC Charlotte is seeking solutions for you. Send your tips or questions to newstips@wcnc.com.