Staff Sgt. Robert Zang, a Butler County native who served 21 years in the military, was among the men who spent their youth defending the nation against the evils of communism in Southeast Asia.

Zang, who shared his experience during the Tet Offensive in 1968, is just one example of the bravery and tenacity demonstrated by a group of men who were sent halfway around the world on a 20-year mission they barely understood.

Unfortunately, the homeland at that time did not see it as a noble cause and subsequently branded Vietnam vets as willing pawns in a game of western aggression.

Honestly, these men should be revered as the best of their generation. They fought an enemy in the field and an enemy at home but remained steadfast patriots.

We should honor them and bestow our heartfelt thanks for their sacrifice.

The Greatest Generation is often associated with the men and women of World War II. While that distinction is well deserved, the truth is that every combat vet who has fought for our nation is part of “The Greatest Generation.”

It is about character and willingness to serve much more than it is about any particular period of time.

Stephen DiLeo is a freelance journalist who honors America’s veterans by telling their stories.