DVD of Sedalia Democrat's Vietnam tribute available

A DVD is available for purchase of the Sedalia Democrat’s 50th anniversary tribute to the beginning of the Vietnam War held on Oct. 30.

In this three-hour video, James “Smitty” Smith, of Smithton, shares his story about the Vietnamese orphan he adopted while he was serving overseas.

James Clark, of Sedalia, gives a heartfelt speech about what it was like to get shot and the strength it took to keep on going.

Gregg Davis, of Cole Camp, tells why he would return to Vietnam, despite the fact that he lost both of his legs and one of his eyes after stepping on a land mine.

The video also includes performances by the State Fair Community College Chamber Choir and Ashton Faith and appearances by American Legion Post 642 Color Guard, 40 & 8, Cub Scout Pack 61 and Boy Scout Troops 61 and 50 and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

One of the highlights is a 25-minute slide show of Vietnam veterans from west central Missouri who have died over the past 50 years. Fifty-four veterans are featured in this tribute, including four veterans who served in World War II, Korea and Vietnam and 16 who were killed in action.

The disc concludes with pictures taken at the ceremony and of local Vietnam veterans.
The cost is $10 if picked up at the Democrat circulation desk or $15 to have them mailed.
For more information, call 826-1000.