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Vietnam Veterans Honored in Pittsfield

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Around 100 people stood at Park Square on Saturday morning to honor the 27 Berkshire County residents who were killed in action in Vietnam.

The annual ceremony recognizes National Vietnam War Veterans Day, which is on March 29, and is sponsored by the James E. Callahan Berkshire Chapter 65 of the Vietnam Veterans of America, American Legion Post 68, and VFW Post 448.

Emcee John Harding, who is a Marine Corps veteran, thanked the attendees for showing up on the frigid day that saw snow flurries.

"We were worried about it anybody would show up but you showed your true colors when you support us Vietnam vets," he said.

Local veterans have been holding the ceremony for close to 50 years. Wreaths were placed on the Vietnam War Veterans memorial coalition members and representatives.

Guests included the Dalton American Legion Riders Post 155, Dalton American Legion Post 155 Honor Guard, VVA Chapter 65, Color Guards from the VVA Chapter 65, Marine Corps League Det. 137, VFW Post 448, A.L. Post 68, Jewish War Veterans Post 140, Italian War Veterans Post 75, and representatives from other organizations.

The national anthem was sung by veteran Mike Bradley, the volley was conducted by the Dalton A.L. Post 155 Honor Guard, taps were played by Vietnam veteran Joseph DiFilippo, and the benediction was provided by the Rev. Michael Denton of South Congregational Church in Pittsfield.

Attendees were invited to light a candle at a memorial shrine in the church after the ceremony.

The 27 Berkshire County residents who were killed in action during the Vietnam War:

* James Henneberry
* George Shufelt
* Francis Bissaillon
* David Borey
* Edward Jarvis
* John Pratt
* Kevin Aldam
* Russell Roulier

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