Over 50 Vietnam War-era veterans (who also happened to be Lincoln High alumni) gathered in front of the main building on Friday, Oct. 19, 2012 for a tailgate party before the varsity football game vs. Grand Island game at the LHS Beechner Athletic Complex.
LHS vets from all branches of the military ate hot dogs and chili in the frigid temperatures while getting reacquainted with old friends and swapping stories, but they were there for more than the food and companionship.
During halftime at the game, the veterans filed onto the track behind the color guard in front of the home stands to be honored by the fans for their military service. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the U.S. entering the war.
(Click here to see a gallery of photos.)
The crowd of students and parents rose to their feet as the LPS AFJROTC Color Guard, led by Trent Woodruff, presented the United States flag. Five service flags for the branches of the military were also carried in by the Vets. The LHS Marching Band played the National Anthem, and after the recognition, LHS band director Chris Watson played Taps to honor those who didn’t make it home.
The ceremony and honoring were coordinated and sponsored by the LHS Vietnam Veterans Committee (Gary Greg, Thomas Aguirre, Larry Owens, and James Hoke) as well as LHS Principal Mike Wortman, Athletic Director Pat Gatzmeyer, and Band Directors Chris Watson, and Jill Oetken. LHS teacher Richard Conradt was also instrumental in putting the program together, and he received a plaque from the VVC in recognition of his efforts.
The hot dogs were provided by Winners Circle Auto at 840 West “O”.
The water and soda were provided by the LHS Athletic Department (Pat Gatzmeyer and LaDona Claus), and the LHS VVC provided the buns, chips, and cookies. LHS Science Department Chair Sean Putnam provided the chili.
