Springfield proclaims Vietnam War Veterans Day and Save Soil Day; federal commemoration director presents pins

Springfield Township’s Committee issued two proclamations honoring veterans and environmental stewardship during its regular meeting.

Mayor Richard Huber and committee members read a proclamation designating March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day in Springfield and commending the national commemoration effort. Ed Crystal, who identified himself as director for the Vietnam War Commemoration, accepted the proclamation and distributed pins. "I my name is Ed Crystal ... My mission in life is to lead my team to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families," he said, adding the program estimates about 7,000,000 Vietnam-era veterans still living here and abroad.

Later the Committee adopted a proclamation recognizing March 21 as "Save Soil Day" in Springfield, citing the global movement’s goal to increase soil organic matter and raise awareness about soil degradation. A presenter supporting the proclamation urged residents to treat soil "not just dirt" but "the lifeblood of our planet."

The proclamations were ceremonial and posed no regulatory changes; speakers encouraged resident participation in related local and national events. The meeting continued with routine business after the proclamations, including departmental reports and agenda items.