For at least some local Vietnam-era veterans, it did seem like it was better late than never.

A Congressional pinning ceremony in Port Orchard Oct. 19 recognized veterans who served between Nov. 1, 1955, and May 15, 1975.

Sue Laguana, who served in the Navy from 1974-96, said the ceremony was “a wonderful opportunity” and that recognitions like this continue to make a true difference. “There’s still some things that need to be done,” she said, “but it’s come a long way since the ‘60s and the ‘70s, so that’s very much appreciated.”

Veteran Dan Meyers agreed the gesture was appreciated, even after all this time. He said, “It’s nice to be recognized for something that you did years ago.”

The Vietnam War remains infamous for the way veterans were treated in the years following the controversial war. Both supporters and opponents of the war mistreated veterans for a variety of reasons, causing additional pain to those who served, along with the physical and emotional toil many already endured in Vietnam.

Meyers reflected on that time period after Vietnam, saying “people at the time had forgotten the cost we paid for freedom.”

Each veteran invited to the Kitsap County Administration Building was recognized by name, along with the time they served and what branch of military they served in. Those in attendance took the time to clap for each veteran individually as they received their pins, followed by a standing ovation for the group as a whole.

Family members were also invited to accept the pins on behalf of veterans who died or were otherwise unable to attend. One individual, who did not speak to the media, picked a pin up for a veteran who died just one day before the ceremony. The pin was created as a way to recognize all veterans of this era, as all were called to serve and could not control where they were stationed.

Peggy Roy, chair of the Kitsap County Veterans Advisory Board, said the ceremony gave Americans a chance to extend the thanks owed to the many veterans in attendance. “We recognize that you may have experienced some unkind words and actions during your service,” she said. “I’d like to think we have learned from our mistakes, and we truly are a grateful nation.”

U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer said that while history cannot be rewritten, the country can take the present to share its overdue thanks to these veterans. “The reality is that gratitude needs to come with more than words,” he said. “It needs to come with a commitment to future generations that future generations know your sacrifice and know your service to our country.”

Rep. Derek Kilmer puts a commemorative pin on one of the veterans.