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Vietnam veterans receive recognition
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American Legion Effingham Post 209 Commander Richard Saxon (second from left) receives his Certificate of Honor from state Rep. Bill Hitchens, Georgia Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Mike Roby and state Sen. Jack Hill (from left) on Thursday. - photo by Mark Lastinger/staff

SPRINGFIELD — The ceremonial pat on the back they received Thursday night won’t relieve the sting left by the way they were treated decades ago. Still, at least they finally got some recognition for their sacrifice.

During an American Legion Post 209 meeting, 26 Effingham County veterans received certificates honoring their service during the Vietnam War. The certificates were presented by state Rep. Bill Hitchens, state Sen. Jack Hill and Georgia Department of Veterans Service Commissioner Mike Roby.

An estimated 234,000 Georgians participated in the conflict that featured U.S. combat troops from 1965-1975.

See the Oct. 18 edition of the Effingham Herald for more details.