‘Booed ... and spit on’: Tyler veteran recalls Vietnam-era homecoming, now receives recognition

TYLER, Texas (KLTV) - Veterans at The Hamptons of Tyler Senior Living in southeast Tyler received a pin and a certificate from Heart to Heart Hospice.

Air Force veteran Judy Harwell was one of 34 veterans honored at the community. She helped military families adjust to life overseas at Clark Air Base in the Philippines.

Veterans reflect on their service

Harwell said her return from service during the Vietnam War was different from the recognition she received at The Hamptons.

“During Vietnam, when we came home, we were not appreciated, and we were booed when we got off the planes, and spit on, and everything else, so it’s kind of good to come back and now have recognition for what we did,” Harwell said.

The veterans served in different eras and in different ways. Army veteran Wayne Hamilton served in the years after World War II.

Hamilton said he joined a reserve officers program in the Signal Corps.

“I got into a reserve officers program in the Signal Corps. And got help going to school. And that made it possible, as a matter of fact. And I got a master’s degree through that,” Hamilton said.

The Hamptons has held the recognition for about five years

The Hamptons has honored its veterans this way for about five years. Engagement Director Aubrey Brandon said the day is about more than a ceremony.

“We appreciate them every single day. But there are the special ones that are veterans today and that we just are excited for them to be able to be noticed,” Brandon said.

Many of the veterans said they would serve again. Harwell said she would, too, but war today gives her pause.

“I hope we don’t have any more and wish this one would end so that we don’t have any more. And that’s what my biggest prayer and my biggest hope is to end this one and not start another one,” Harwell said.

Certificate text

The certificate each veteran received reads: “In heartfelt recognition and gratitude for your bravery, your dedication, and selfless service to our country, your courage and commitment have helped preserve our freedom and strengthen our nation. Thank you for your service.”