More South Dakota Vietnam veterans receive lapel pins, thanked for their service during ceremony yesterday in Pierre

About a dozen Vietnam War veterans will receive a commemorative lapel pin at a ceremony yesterday afternoon (Feb. 14, 2022) at the Capitol Lake Visitor’s Center in Pierre.

South Dakota Congressman Dusty Johnson says this recognition of their service for their country is long over due.

Johnson says recalls a story he heard after a pinning ceremony at Mobridge within the last year.

Johnson says the recognition is also special for the veterans’ loved ones.

Among those being recognized were:

• John Fette (Marine Corps)
• Ray Freier (Navy)
• Jerry Gooding (Army)
• Malcolm “Robert” Hinchley (Navy)
• Daryl Johnson (Marine Corps)
• Robert Kean (Army)
• Isaac McGee (Army)
• Mike McMillan (Navy)
• Gregory Monroe (Army)
• John Simpson (Air Force)
• Nick Roseland (Army)
• Dennis Wieseler (Army)
• Pressler “Sam” Seymour (Army)
• Keith Harry (Marine Corps)
• Jerald Shantz (Navy)
• Harland Francin (Army)

Vietnam veteran pinning ceremony in Pierre Feb. 14, 2022.
Photo credit DRG Media Group.

Vietnam veteran pinning ceremony in Pierre Feb. 14, 2022.
Photo credit DRG Media Group.

Vietnam veteran pinning ceremony in Pierre Feb. 14, 2022.
Photo credit DRG Media Group.