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Marching In "Hometown U.S.A."By VVAW MadisonVerona, Wisconsin, a small community in the South central section of the state, honored Vietnam veterans with a three-day festival, on June 6-9. Back in 1966, Donald R. Schmidt, a Verona resident stationed in Vietnam with his buddies of the 3rd Detachment of the 101st Airborne, adopted the sleepy town of Verona as the "perfect example of Hometown U.S.A." The men of the 3rd Detachment felt that Verona personified our country and its strengths, and bestowed the title "Hometown U.S.A." As a result, Verona has celebrated with an annual festival every summer since 1966. This year's three-day celebration was dedicated to the men of the 3rd Detachment, as well as to all of those veterans who served in Vietnam. The city and residents of Verona concluded the festivities this year with a Hometown U.S.A. sign dedication, and a Memorial service to honor those who served during the Vietnam War. The residents also organized a Welcome Home Parade for vets that they felt was long overdue. VVAW brought up the rear in parade, with our colors and a marching unit consisting of member of the Madison and Milwaukee Chapters. We were well received by the crowds, calling a new cadence, provided by Milwaukee VVAW: Heidy Heidy Heidy Hey VVAW members enjoyed the applause and the hoopla—it was obvious the crowds appreciated our lively steppin', our banners declaring NO MORE VIETNAMS & TEST, TREAT & COMPENSTATE AGENT ORANGE. All along the parade route we were greeted by cheers and standing ovations. It was great. Following the parade we gathered at the festival grounds, manned the information table, sold buttons and talked with the folks. Over and over we were told we were a welcome sight and a nice break from the traditional vets organizations and their usual, boring routines. Thanks again for the Hometown welcome! —VVAW Madison
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