November 6, 2008 Veterans Day celebrated early in Worcester Play video

(Katie Daly, NECN: Worcester, MA) - At the West Side House in Worcester Veterans Day was celebrated early.

The West Side house serves veterans with a variety of health problems...like posttraumatic stress disorder.

“Most of these residents would not be able to survive in a traditional nursing home or residential setting because of their needs.”

In honor of their service to their country, 9 Vietnam War veterans were given medals while others who served in other wars were handed ribbons.

Medals were handed out by retired Marine Corps captain James Larkin.

Many patients at the center have mental health issues connected to their years in the service.

“If you look at their sacrifices that they made over the years you have Vets that came back with psychological disorders handicap any tribute we can pay to them...we should appreciate their service.”