In 1863, a song was published for the returning veterans of the Civil War. “When Johnny comes marching home again, hurray, hurray. We’ll give him a hearty welcome then, hurray, hurray. The men will cheer and the boys will shout. The ladies they will all turn out…” While many returning service men and women did receive the warm embrace of welcome from their families, friends and communities, not all did. Numerous service men and women, honorably finished their tours of duty and then quietly boarded busses or trains returning to civilian life. Those that served during the Vietnam conflict faced threats, taunts and disrespect from many. 

On March 29, 1973, the last combat troops were withdrawn from Vietnam and the last prisoners of war held in North Vietnam arrived on American soil. This date was chosen for all of those service men and women that were not properly thanked upon their return home.

Governor Matt Mead joined with the Wyoming Veterans Commission and has attended every “Wyoming Veterans Welcome Home Day” since taking office in 2011. The day of welcoming was added to Wyoming state law the same year.  Governor Mead said, “I look forward to this day each year. Wyoming cares deeply for its veterans and these events provide an opportunity to show we care, our veterans deserve to come home to a supportive nation. I am proud to be able to take part in this welcome home.” 

While Wyoming communities were encouraged to host their own celebrations, three communities were chosen this year, Newcastle, Hulett and Lusk,  for attendance by Governor Mead, Senator John Barrasso, Wyoming Adjutant General, Major General Luke Reiner, Wyoming Veterans Commission, Chairman Keith Davidson and former Wyoming Veterans Commission Chairman, Ret. Lt. Lee Alley. The Lusk ceremony was the final official Wyoming Veterans Welcome Home for Governor Mead, although he was quick to assure those in attendance that he “saved the best for last.”

The Casper chapter of the Patriot Guard Riders traveled to Lusk for the event. A diverse group, the Patriot Guard Riders share an unwavering respect for those who risk their lives for America’s freedom. They presented our flag in welcome and respect for all those in attendance.

The Elk’s Lodge #1797  meeting room was filled to capacity as Commander Ed Tirado, VFW Post #3511 took to the podium to give welcoming remarks. Commander Dale Miller, American Legion Post #1 and Veteran Don Heckert, Korea, performed the Presentation of the Colors and the Retiring of Colors. High school sophomores, Allison Williams, daughter of Lisa and JD Williams of Lusk, and Kate Norman, daughter of Lisa Norman, Buffalo, sang the National Anthem with great reverence. Pastor/Commander David Shaner, American Legion Post #4, gave the invocation and Veteran Larry Pavone Sr., Navy, the benediction. Purple Heart recipient Willie Wilcox, Vietnam, led the attendees in a heart-felt Pledge of Allegiance.

In addition to remarks from Mead, Barrasso, Reiner, Davidson and Alley, Niobrara County Commissioner Chairman and USAF Veteran, Richard Ladwig, shared his experiences of service as well as his personal message of welcome home. 

“Let love and friendship on that day, Their choicest pleasures then display. And let each one perform some part, To fill with joy the warrior’s heart. When Johnny comes marching home.”

Welcome home and thank you for your service.