Vietnam veterans and Vietnam era veterans from around the region are invited to attend the Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day on June 11 for a free BBQ picnic social in their honor. This event is sponsored by the Vietnam Veterans of America, local Chapter 790, and will be held at the Swensrud Park in Northwood Iowa. Located along the riverfront behind Main Street, folks will enjoy close parking, lots of shade trees and a huge variety of food. Vietnam veterans are asked to invite fellow Vietnam veterans to commemorate the 50th year anniversary of the Vietnam war.

Menu of burgers, brats, and lemonaide are furnished and folks are asked to bring salads, appetizers, side dishes, or desserts to share. Serving will begin at about 1 p.m. Military hats, T-shirts, and flags will be on site.

Jerry Parmley, V.V.A. chapter president, notes that the chapter also hosts the “All Veterans – All Eras” BBQ picnic set for Aug. 20, which honors all veterans of all branches of the military who served in various eras, such as World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as the National Guard. Features include door prizes and raffle items. New this year will be an antique steam tractor cooking up fresh picked sweet corn. About 450 are expected. Contact Jerry Parmley at 641-293-5131.