A Long Overdue Welcome Home: Honoring Our Vietnam Veterans
On Sunday, March 22, 2026, Gilchrist will host its eighth annual Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day Celebration at Martin’s West, a day dedicated to honoring the men and women who served during the Vietnam War and who, for far too long, did not receive the welcome home they deserved.
Many of the patients and families we serve at Gilchrist are veterans. Many served during the Vietnam era. And for some, the pain of war did not end overseas. It followed them home. One of the most painful chapters in our nation’s history was the treatment many Vietnam veterans experienced when they returned home. Instead of gratitude, many were met with silence, or worse. Gilchrist is committed to helping make things right.
Diane Sancilio, LCSW-C, Director of Counseling and Support at Gilchrist, sees firsthand the lasting emotional impact of service. “This event is especially important to us because of the many Vietnam veterans, and their families, who live in our community and whom we’ve had the privilege to serve,” she says. “It is Gilchrist’s way of saying thank you; we honor your service, we welcome you home, and we hope this gathering offers an opportunity for healing and making right what was long overdue.”
Over the years, attendees have shared just how meaningful this day has been. One veteran reflected that the celebration meant “recognizing that the Vietnam Veterans were never respected as they should have been. But you all fixed that and we are grateful for it.” Another shared that “hearing the stories of veterans, recognition of Vietnam Veterans, mental health focus, recognizing all branches of service, the speakers, resources, and music—it was healing to my husband and I hope it was for other Vietnam Veterans.”
That word—healing—comes up again and again.
The celebration honors the veterans in our care as well as all Vietnam and Vietnam-era veterans throughout our community. It recognizes not only their military service, but also the invisible wounds many still carry. Through speakers, shared stories, and a focus on mental health and connection, the event creates space for acknowledgment, gratitude, and community. “It’s a day to honor Vietnam Veterans who still may suffer trauma from the war and not being welcomed home upon return,” says Kimberlee McDonnell, Gilchrist’s We Honor Veterans Coordinator.”
Keynote Speaker: Karl Marlantes
We are honored to welcome Karl Marlantes, Vietnam War hero, recipient of the Navy Cross, Bronze Star, and two Purple Hearts, and bestselling author of Matterhorn and What It Is Like to Go to War. A former U.S. Marine who served in Vietnam, Marlantes has spoken candidly about his own experience with post-traumatic stress and the long journey toward healing. His books explore the emotional and psychological realities of war, and his perspective resonates deeply with veterans and families alike.
At Gilchrist, welcoming our Vietnam veterans home is more than a ceremony. It is a promise—to listen, to support, to honor, and to say clearly what should have been said decades ago: Welcome home. We are grateful for your service.
Registration for the March 22 celebration closes on March 15, 2026. We encourage veterans, families, and community members to register early and join us for this meaningful day of recognition, gratitude, and connection. To register or learn more, visit: https://e.givesmart.com/events/MwK/
