Norcross, GA – On Friday, May 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., First Senior Center of Georgia (FSCofGA) will host a Memorial Day Commemoration to honor veterans of the Vietnam War. With 2025 marking the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, this commemoration carries added significance. The event will bring together Vietnamese American Veterans and members of the Atlanta Vietnam Veterans Business Association, many of whom served side by side during the Vietnam War. This gathering offers a unique opportunity for these veterans to reconnect and pay tribute to one another. It serves as a reminder of the millions who lost their lives 50 years ago and reinforces FSCofGA’s ongoing commitment to honor their memory.
The FSCofGA is proud to recognize the courage and sacrifice of both Vietnamese American and American veterans. Additionally, 20 electric wheelchairs and 40 shower chairs, generously donated by Friends of Disabled Adults and Children and PruittHealth, will be presented to former members of the South Vietnamese Military, symbolizing solidarity and shared sacrifice.
Organizers and community leaders have shared powerful messages that capture the spirit of the day. Von Tran, Executive Director of FSCofGA shared her thoughts on the day: “At FSCofGA, we believe that, whether Vietnamese or American, we all share a common gratitude for those who sacrificed for freedom. We want to create a space where soldiers, those who once wore a uniform, can connect, share, and heal their emotional wounds. Let’s remember together, let’s express our gratitude together, and let’s build a better future together, where the sacrifice of these soldiers is never forgotten.”
Mr. Be Ta, a senior at FSCofGA and a former soldier of the Republic of Vietnam, reflects, “I believe we fought for freedom and democracy globally, including for South Vietnam. The people and soldiers of South Vietnam must always respect the immense sacrifice made by the American people and soldiers. On Memorial Day, let us remember the 58,000 American soldiers who died in Vietnam, a testament to their unwavering commitment to freedom, not just for America, but for the world, including South Vietnam.”
American veterans also emphasized the bonds formed during the war and the continued friendship between the two communities. John Butler, Chairman Emeritus for the Atlanta Vietnam Veterans Business Association and a Vietnam War Veteran, said, “During the Vietnam War, we American soldiers bonded with the South Vietnamese soldiers for life because we risked our lives fighting together for freedom from Communism. Now, 50 years later here in Atlanta, we have deep relationships with all of the wonderful Vietnamese people as evidenced by the beautiful Vietnam War Memorial we built together in Brook Run Park in Dunwoody, GA.”
This event also highlights continued corporate and nonprofit support for those who served. Angie Tolbert, VP of Operations, PruittHealth Premier shared, “PruittHealth is honored to be part of this important event in partnership with First Senior Center of Georgia and to have the opportunity to donate wheelchairs to members of the community, many of whom are distinguished Vietnamese veterans. This event is not only an expression of gratitude but also a reflection of our dedication to providing meaningful services to the Vietnamese community and all those in our care.”
Where:
First Senior Center of Georgia
5555 Oakbrook Pkwy, Building 500, Suite 500-B
Norcross, GA 30093
Media RSVP Requested
Please contact Amanda Brown-Olmstead at amanda@newaboa.com or (404) 659-0919 to confirm attendance or schedule interviews with event organizers and honorees.
About First Senior Center of Georgia:
First Senior Center of Georgia is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free services to the Vietnamese elderly community in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. It has evolved into a lifeline for low-income seniors, offering crucial services such as language support, food pantry assistance, benefits enrollment aid, senior wellness programs, affordable housing support, end-of-life care, transportation, and crisis management. Learn more at https://fscofga.com/.
