WI marks 1st Vietnam Veterans Day

The Vietnam War ended decades ago. But for some, its impact will never end.

"It changed my entire life for the rest of my life," said Marine Corps. veteran John Dederich. He lost both of his legs while serving in Vietnam.

Last year, Governor Jim Doyle designated March 29th as Vietnam Veterans Day. Dederich said having a special day set aside to honor Vietnam veterans is huge.

"It sends out a real message to Vietnam veterans," Dederich said. "You should be proud of the time you spent in the military."

While no major celebrations marked the day, a ceremony was held on Saturday in Eau Claire. But for some, the special day isn't so special.

"I deal with Vietnam everyday of my life," said Leon Meidam, who served two tours of duty with the 101st Airborne in Vietnam. He said having an official day for Vietnam veterans doesn't mean anything to him.

"It has no meaning to me," Meidam said. "It's just another day of the week, another day of the month. There's nothing to get excited over."

Meidam said he is more excited about the Vietnam veterans' event coming up in May at Lambeau Field .

"For a homecoming it's late," Meidam said. "But as a thank you party, whatever you want to call it, we're going to have fun."

Meidam is putting together some displays for the LZ Lambeau event, including weapons, uniforms, even booby traps.

John Dederich said LZ Lambeau will be a time to celebrate those who served.

"What it basically is is a chance for Vietnam veterans to show everybody else they're proud of their service in Vietnam," Dederich said. "But even more importantly, it's a chance for families and friends and everybody else to come out and actually see what Vietnam veterans were all about."

Meidam hopes his displays will help make that happen.