Published: October 04, 2009 08:43 pm      

Milestone

Chapter 172, VVA, celebrates silver anniversary

Cumberland Chapter 172, Vietnam Veterans of America, reached a milestone Saturday, and we join a grateful Uncle Sam in tipping his hat to the former members of the armed forces in their 25th anniversary celebration.

With its handsome headquarters fittingly rising above Liberty Street, Chapter 172 was the first formed in Maryland and now is the largest in America with more than 960 members from all walks of life.

The chapter is the source of the popular Lee Teter “Reflections” print and operates a store selling artwork, hats, shirts, pins and other items. A museum in the building gives visitors a glimpse of the lengthy war through its displays of uniforms, weapons and personal items.

The chapter is a great neighbor. A color/honor guard regularly attends special events such as the Veterans Day service at Rocky Gap Veterans Cemetery and assembles for funerals of those who have fallen from the ranks. Participation in POW/MIA Recognition Day draws attention to those whose fates remain uncertain. Members go into classrooms when requested to speak to students about their experiences and views on ser-vice and patriotism. The chapter provides scholarships at Frostburg State University and Allegany College of Maryland.

The VVA has become one of the most influential political lobbying organizations when it comes to veterans affairs. The national organization was formed in 1978 with the motto, “Never again will one generation of veterans abandon another.”

“We are known nationally as one of the foremost chapters for helping veterans. Chapters all across the country look to us and are organizing themselves like us,” said Chapter 172 President Bob Cook in a Times-News story in Friday’s edition.

With a quarter-century of success now under its belt, we salute the local group and extend our best wishes for the future.