US Senator Jerry Moran was at the Country Stampede on Saturday night, and not just for the music entertainment. He was on hand to honor veterans of the Vietnam War, with 2015 being the 50th anniversary of the beginning of the conflict.
“We’re going to do something tonight that wasn’t done when many of these veterans returned home”, said the Senator, referring to the general resentment felt by so many who served in the region during the late sixties and early seventies.
Once on stage, Senator Moran was joined by two individuals who he said are spearheading the effort to honor the veterans of the Vietnam War. Richard Wartell and Mike McDermott both served in Vietnam. McDermott is also the chairperson of K-State’s 50th Anniversary commemoration.
After remarks from both Wartell and McDermott, the Senator brought up a group of Wounded Warriors to be honored and recognized for their service and sacrifices. They included: Marine Sergeant Daniel Brazzill of Kansas City, Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Joseph Bagwell of Topeka, Army Staff Sergeant Sparky Edwards of Osage City, and National Guard Tech Sergeant Brandon Aldridge of Topeka.
As to why Moran chose the Country Stampede to honor the heroes, he said it’s “a great crowd of Kansans, and folks from the midwest who understand the value of military service.
