Vietnam Veterans Day formally recognized by Southern Utes
Thursday - April 3, 2025 by Jeremy Wade Shockley | The Southern Ute Drum
Ceremony closed with a presentation of the “Taps” by Vietnam combat veteran, Ronnie Baker.
Southern Ute Veterans Association Commander, Howard Richards Sr. speaks during the Vietnam Veterans Day recognition ceremony at the Southern Ute Veterans Memorial Park in Ignacio.
Ignacio Mayor Clark Craig and others give their thanks to the veterans during the Vietnam Veterans Day recognition ceremony on Saturday.
Vietnam combat veteran, Rod Grove speaks on his experiences serving overseas and the difficulties that many Tribal veterans faced upon returning home.
Southern Ute Veteran’s Association Princess, Alyiah Jacket gives her welcome address.
Southern Ute Tribal Council members, Linda Baker and Marge Barry congratulate the three women who were honored by the Association on Saturday.
Shiri Howell, Krista Richards, and Marlena Valdez were all recognized for their years of service to the Veterans Association, each presented with an embroidered shawl bearing the Vietnam veteran colors.
Ute Mountain Ute Vietnam veteran, Terry Knight gave the invocation in Ute and welcomed attendees to the annual Vietnam Veterans Day recognition celebration.
Photo Credit: Jeremy Wade Shockley | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Jeremy Wade Shockley | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Jeremy Wade Shockley | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Jeremy Wade Shockley | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Jeremy Wade Shockley | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Jeremy Wade Shockley | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Jeremy Wade Shockley | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Jeremy Wade Shockley | The Southern Ute Drum
A formal Vietnam Veterans Day recognition celebration was held at the Southern Ute Veterans Memorial Park in Ignacio, Saturday, March 29. Hosted by the Southern Ute Veterans Association, the event brought veterans, families, and Tribal dignitaries together for this day of recognition and remembrance.