The day was warm and, although autumn was in the air, all enjoyed a beautiful afternoon with precious heroes from the 278th as the Associate of Vietnam Veterans of America hosted a send off dinner for them Oct. 25 at the National Guard Armory. More than 80 troops and their families lined up to a traditional fish fry dinner served up by the AVVA Chapter 1015.
The AVVA wanted to convey its thanks and gratitude to these fine soldiers and their families before they are again called to duty. According to the Tennessee Army National Guard, the 278th Armored Calvary Regiment is scheduled to report to Camp Shelby, MS, Dec. 5 for mobilization training. The troops will remain there until they are deployed overseas, though information on where the regiment will go is still undetermined.
The following members from the VVA Chapter 1015 joined up to help cut up French fries and man the fryers, Buck Carr, Sarge Sarazen, Mike Mattson, Ernie Wilson, Bill Crawford and Walt Steiger with Ralph Pedde doing the invocation.
Thanks to Food Lion, Mayfield Dairy, Wal-Mart and Flowers and Merita Bakeries, and the VVA chapter 1015 for their generous donations, making it possible to have this dinner.
If you would like to join or learn more about out organization you may call 788-1117 or 787-1639 or e-mail CPVVA@gmail.com. You do not need to be the wife or husband of a Vietnam veteran, you just need to have a desire to help.
