DeSales University’s Office of Veterans and Military Services honored Vietnam War veterans at a special event this past Wednesday, marking 50 years since the last troops left Vietnam, Lehigh Valley Live reports. This was the second year in a row that DeSales held a Vietnam commemoration ceremony.  

The tearful ceremony moved many of the attendees as families and friends honored the veterans they had lost. 

The university collaborated with local veteran advocacy organizations such as Fleet Reserve Association, John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322, Vietnam Veterans of America Lehigh Valley Chapter 415, and more.  

U.S. Navy Commander and Pennsylvania-raised James S. Turner Jr. Gave his remarks at the event. The veteran has over 34 years of service and has many awards to show for it. In addition to 40 countries on six continents, he served in Vietnam during intense bombing campaigns.  

DeSales University is being recognized as an official Commemorative Partner of the Department of Defense, Vietnam War Commemoration.  

Read more about the Vietnam War Veteran Commemoration on Lehigh Valley Live.  

CBS News interviews a Vietnam War veteran who reflects on 50 years since the U.S. troops left Vietnam.