Local military advocates, groups and community members look to honor veterans at a National Vietnam War Veterans Day Ceremony this week.

The Michael Trebert Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Sequim VFW Post 4760 Henry C. Echternkamp will be honoring Vietnam War veterans starting at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 29, at the Sequim VFW building, 169 E. Washington St.

The event is expected to be an annual Commemorative Pin Ceremony, as Department of Defense Vietnam lapel pins will be handed out to recognize, thank and honor all U.S. Vietnam veterans.

Maj. Kevin O’Neill, United States Air Force Reserve 65th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron and Senior Vice Commander of Post 4760, is the guest speaker and will be expressing appreciation to veterans in a short ceremony.

Others scheduled to present include: Holly Rowan, president of the Clallam County Veterans Association, with a welcome and introductions; chaplain Nancy Zimmerman with the invocation; Junior American Eagles leading the Pledge of Allegiance; Bill Strehle of VFW Post 4760 presenting the pins; DAR representatives presenting the Surviving Spouse Pin, and closing remarks from Neil Gamroth of VFW Post 4760.

The public is invited to thank veterans and join in refreshments following the pinnings.

The Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin is available to living U.S. veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time during the period of Nov. 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, regardless of location. The symbols on the pin include an eagle (representing courage, honor and dedicated service to the nation), a blue circle (signifying vigilance, perseverance and justice), a laurel wreath (representing honor and victory), stripes (representing the American flag) and six stars, representing the six allies who served sacrificed alongside one another: the commonwealth of Australia, the Kingdom of Thailand, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea and the Republic of the Philippines. A message reading “A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You” is embossed on the back.

For more about Vietnam War commemorations, visit vietnamwar50th.com.