Blunt honors Vietnam vets with award program

JEFFERSON CITY. Mo. -- Gov. Matt Blunt announced that Vietnam veterans are now eligible for special recognition through the Missouri Veterans Recognition Program, developed by the Missouri General Assembly, the Missouri Veterans Commission, Missouri National Guard and the governor.

The Vietnam War Medallion Program -- with a medal, medallion and certificate -- was created during the 2006 legislative session by House Bill 978.

The Missouri Veterans Commission provided the design, and the Missouri National Guard is managing the program. Medals should be available for distribution in late August or early September.

To be eligible, the veteran must have been a legal resident of Missouri on Aug. 28, 2006, a legal resident at the time he or she entered or was discharged from military service, or a legal resident at the time of his or her death. The veteran must have served on active duty in a U.S. military force any time during the period of Feb. 28, 1961, to May 7, 1975. Applicants also must have been honorably separated or discharged from military service unless they are still in active service in an honorable status, according to the legislation. Vietnam War veterans, or the spouses or the eldest living survivor of deceased Vietnam War veterans, may apply for the award. The award is authorized whether the veteran served within the United States or in a foreign country.

With the application, veterans will also need to submit a copy of their Record of Discharge or Separation from Service or Department of Defense Form 214 to document active duty service dates and honorable discharge.

The Missouri National Guard continues to accept applications for the World War II and Korean War awards.

For applications and a complete list of requirements for the Vietnam War, Korean War and World War II awards; visit www.moguard.com, click on "Programs" and then "Veterans Awards"; call toll-free (866) 834-3431; or write to the Office of the Adjutant General, Attn: Veterans Recognition Program, P.O. Box 1808, Jefferson City, Mo. 65102. Veterans may also contact their local Missouri Veterans Commission office for information.