VietNow McHenry County Illinois

Our Chapter History

In 1980, several Rockford Vietnam Veterans established a social group later named ViêtNow.  By 1982, word had spread to McHenry County of their success in promoting recognition and well being for the veterans. From this experience our Chapter was formed becoming the first expansion Chapter of the ViêtNow family.

ViêtNow has grown from the first few members marching in Harvard’s 1983 Milk Days Parade.  We have become a recognized veteran’s organization throughout McHenry County.

ViêtNow was the driving force behind the 1987 construction of the McHenry County Vietnam Veterans Memorial, honoring our county’s thirty-five veterans who sacrificed their lives in the war.  The Memorial is located outside the South entrance of the Administrative Building for the McHenry County Government Center in Woodstock Illinois.

We have assisted veterans throughout McHenry County in whatever means possible. As a Chapter: we have been on trips to VA Hospitals; active member of the McHenry County Veterans Assistance Commission; provide Christmas baskets to veteran families in need; and assist with the transition of indigent veterans so they may become a positive influence to the community around them.

Members of the McHenry County Chapter have put together or hosted five (5) National Conventions, coordinated an Agent Orange Symposium, and participated in memorial dedications honoring our fallen Brothers and Sisters around the county and in Washington, DC.

Through our positive attitude and concern for our county veterans, ViêtNow has established itself as a viable veteran's organization throughout McHenry County.

In 1992 the VietNow National Organization expanded our vetran eligebility criteria to veterans who served honorably from 1957 to present. Tthe McHenry County was the driving force behind this change to welcome the Cold war and Desert Storm era veterans. With the attack on 9/11 the OEF and OIF era veterans were also welcomed into our ouranization..