Commission recognizes Vietnam vets; donates $100,000 for park

By Charlotte Underwood

JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF)- Vietnam Veterans Chapter 1148 was recognized at Monday’s County Commission meeting.  The chapter also received a check for $100,000 to go towards the Veterans Park that will be located in Caryville.

TOP PHOTO: The County Commission presents $100,000 to the local chapter of Vietnam Veterans to go towards a Veterans Park.

County Mayor Jack Lynch read a proclamation in honor of the local Vietnam Veterans Chapter, saying it was a “beacon of service and dedication within our community comprising 140 committee members who share a profound bond forged through their experiences in service to our nation. “

The “Chapter exemplifies compassion and action by organizing outings for Veterans, creating opportunities for camaraderie and support among those who have bravely served.”

The Vietnam Veterans Chapter 1148 has become one of the fastest growing chapters in the United States.

“They help our Veterans get the remembrance they deserve, with banners in downtown LaFollette and placing a flag on the memorials for the one’s that we have lost each Memorial Day,” Mayor Lynch said.

The county mayor went on to say that the Vietnam Veterans Chapter 1148 “has demonstrated a strong commitment to education and the future of our youth by awarding scholarships, including $1,000 scholarships to deserving students at Campbell County High School and one $1,000 scholarship to Jellico High School in the past year.”

“These contributions reflect not only the dedication of the members, but also their unwavering commitment to fostering community spirit and supporting the next generation,” Mayor Lynch said.

Chapter President Eddie Housley thanked the mayor and commissioners for the honor and for the support.

Mayor Lynch and the commission also presented a $100,000 check the Chapter to towards the completion of a Veterans Park that will be located in Caryville.

The project is for the installation of a large American Flag that will be located facing I-75 adjacent to the Caryville Cares Playground.

Vietnam Veteran with VVA Chapter 1148 H.R. Douglas is heading up this project.

According to Douglas, a 12 by 24 American Flag will be displayed on a 60-foot commercial-grade flag pole. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-07/21/2026-6AM)