Memorial Day is all about honoring and remembering the men and women who gave their lives for our country.

And earlier today, a group of local Vietnam Veterans gathered in Eau Claire, to remember a war that ended more than 30 years ago.

Organizer Thuy Smith says, "We don't want this part of our history, these men, forgotten and there's so many of them and their stories need to be told and heard."

Thuy Smith started this annual dinner for Vietnam Veterans in early 2000 at her parents' Vietnamese restaurant in Hayward.

This year, the dinner moved to Eau Claire, drawing more than 70 veterans to the table.

Thuy Smith says, "We saw what did take place with the group that we had, and it was that camaraderie, just getting together and healing."

But, the annual event is about more than just food.

Smith says it also gives Vietnam Vets a chance to share their stories, and talk about the similar issues they face.

Thuy Smith says, "Telling our stories and coming together is healing. Not just healing by sharing with others and what you might offer to them, but healing for yourself."

Vietnam Veteran, Larry Williams, says he's been to this event before, and says once he got comfortable, it helped him open up and talk about the lasting effects of war.

Larry Williams says, "I think that's the best thing you can do for yourself is go and hook up with other people that know what you feel like and know what you're going through inside and start talking about it and they'll understand."

The Veterans’ Dinner is part of the non-profit Thuy Smith International Outreach Organization.

Smith says the group tries to bring Vietnam and the United States back together.

That includes bringing veterans who served in Vietnam, back to that country.

Thuy Smith says, "Bringing veterans back to Vietnam so they can see Vietnam in a new light, Vietnam a country, not a war."

Helping these heroes deal with the past, one story at a time.

Larry Williams says, "I encourage the veterans that if you're dealing with a lot of this stuff, hook up with some people, some veterans."

To find out more about the Thuy Smith International Outreach Center, you can contact Smith at 715-861-3081.