Events

“Welcome Home”: FWB Chamber of Commerce plans 50th Anniversary Vietnam Veteran Celebration

The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce will host a three-day tribute to Vietnam veterans April 28-30, marking the 50th anniversary of the conflict’s conclusion.

Jared Williams

Add Get The Coast on Google

The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce will host a three-day tribute to Vietnam veterans April 28-30, marking the 50th anniversary of the conflict’s conclusion.

“Honoring our Heroes: Welcome Home, a Tribute to Vietnam Veterans” will feature historical presentations, panel discussions and a banquet with notable speakers.

“Our Chamber of Commerce has a long history of planning events honoring our local military heritage,” said Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce President Ted Corcoran. “This event will be much more personal to our community — as we plan to recognize the hundreds of Vietnam Veterans who are our neighbors.”

The first two days will feature free educational programs called “Stories of Service – A Reflection on Vietnam” at the Air Force Armament Museum from 5-8 p.m. Events include book signings, panel discussions and historical presentations from veterans.

The tribute culminates April 30 with the “Heroes’ Tribute Banquet” at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Fairgrounds and Event Center from 5-9 p.m. Featured speakers include Rocky Bleier, a four-time Super Bowl champion and Vietnam veteran; Col. Ed Hubbard; and Dale Dye, an actor, author and military film consultant.

“Our Chamber — our community — LOVES our military,” Corcoran said. “The Wednesday, April 30 banquet is not to be missed. I intend to bring my grandchildren so they can learn about our military history.”

The Chambers says they aim to ensure all local Vietnam-era veterans can attend, with financial assistance available for those who need it.

While the educational programs are free, tickets for the April 30 banquet are available here.

PROMOTION

Join the conversation...Cancel reply

Continue reading 👇

Business

FWB Chamber’s National Civics Bee finalists compete at state level in Tallahassee

How I Work

HOW I WORK: An inside look at how Travelmation’s Lynnlee Stanford turned a side hustle into a decade-long travel career from her living room

Business

Grow With Us Learning Academy opens facility for up to 300 children at Freedom Tech Center

Business

Fort Walton Beach Chamber to honor Paul Singleton for attending 2,000th event in 50-year streak

LYNDA WATKINS commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“This was such devastating news the day we lost Demetrius! He was so loved by so many in the community! Gone but never forgotten ! This guy should get life...”

Respond

Teri Reeves commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“Dimitrius was a very loved person by so many citizens of Ft. Walton Beach. He will never be replaced. He is dearly missed by so many.”

Kathy commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“This was my beloved friend, please give this man the full sentence allowed by law, which is not good enough. It will never replace the life lost. Demetrius was a...”

Jan Hyatt commented on Iconic Sea Oats Motel in Destin acquired, to undergo renovations

“I’ve been a return customer for many, many decades!! I’m delighted to know that it is not being razed!! Thank you!!”

Sharon Patterson commented on Okaloosa School District explains how Safe Schools funding works amid county SRO debate

“The SRO belongs in the school budget, not the county’s. Furthermore, I’m sure those officers are not earning in excess of $100k a year so where is the rest of...”

Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: July 24, 2026

“1:39; 5 attempts”

John McGranahan commented on SOCKS to fly 110 cats from Okaloosa to Maryland in partnership with national rescue groups

“Capn Obvious obviously did not read the article or has no clue what SOCKS is all about. As far as cats on the streets: PEOPLE are to blame. They move,...”

Tom commented on SOCKS to fly 110 cats from Okaloosa to Maryland in partnership with national rescue groups

“Um...did you read the story? Cat market? Trafficking? Organizations such as SOCKS are definitely not making any money. And as far as "cats all over the streets," all their cats...”

Jim McSwain commented on Niceville High School’s Julia Milz named Distinguished Young Woman of Okaloosa County for 2027

“Niceville Valparaiso Little League going to Wilson NC for the Tournament of State Champions. They won the state championship last weekend.”

Brandi Romero commented on Destin City Council directs staff to evaluate East Pass warning signage

“I am so happy they are doing something with signage at east pass AND need something maybe on the bridge people can read for crab island about that current! It...”