American Legion Post No. 58 of Fountain Hills took time over the Memorial Day weekend to honor some special veterans.

In a quick motorcade around Fountain Park and a solemn ceremony back at the post, 10 Vietnam War veterans were bestowed the Silver Rose.

The veterans were all exposed to Agent Orange during the war and have experienced varying degrees of physical ailments since that time.

Three of the Arizona veterans could not attend the Silver Rose ceremony – Steven Borton, Sgt., U.S. Army; Doug “Doc” Miller, HM3, U.S. Navy; and Daniel Reilly, Sgt. E-4, U.S. Air Force.

The seven present were Charles Berryhill, Sgt., U.S. Marines; Ken Butler, 3rd Class, U.S. Navy; Charles Cameron, E-5, U.S. Army; Francis Kwiatkowski, Master Sgt., U.S. Air Force; George Merino, CW3, U.S. Army; Wendell Shirk, CE-2, U.S. Navy; and Joe Wright, E-4, U.S. Army.

Convertibles in the motorcade showcased the Silver Rose recipients, while 80 motorcycle riders participated as well.

“These veterans and their families were simply awesome,” said Ken Couture, commander of the American Legion Riders from Post 58.

“They were so overwhelmingly appreciative and grateful…and so brave and determined.

“It was a truly moving event.”

The event also featured Ken Thorp, the founder of the Silver Rose Foundation, Legion District 12 Director Lew Payne and State Legion Commander Judi Beischel.

Legion Riders from 10 different posts from across the state came to Fountain Hills for the ceremony along with members of the Patriot Guard Riders.

“Of course I had a great team of volunteers that drew down and adopted a ‘can do’ attitude for this ceremony,” Couture added.

“All the units of the Legion participated and contributed in a special way.”

It marked only the third year that a Silver Rose ceremony was held in Arizona.