To the Journal editor:

I just learned that Chapter 380, Vietnam Veterans of America-Marquette County, have disbanded their Honor Guard. They no longer will be providing military honors at funerals. The men and women of this Honor Guard have unselfishly provided this service to deceased veterans in Marquette County, including other counties in Upper Michigan, almost since the formation of Chapter 380 in 1978.

The average age of a Vietnam veteran is 72 years and as time moves on, their numbers are quickly beginning to dwindle. I can’t find the words to express my personal appreciation to each of the Honor Guard members, both past and present, for their volunteerism, personal sacrifice and dedication to such an honorable task to pay tribute to our deceased veterans.

Marquette County and surrounding communities owe a debt of gratitude to Chapter 380, Vietnam Veterans of America.

RON LOVEL

Ishpeming