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Special Tribute Paid To Women Lost in Wars

It was just a few quiet words, coming after an hour of ringing speeches, songs and other public tributes to U.S. war veterans -- especially women -- at the annual Veterans Day ceremony yesterday in front of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

But when Barbara Lilly, 62, a former American Red Cross worker in Vietnam, hugged Army Sgt. Danielle Modglin, 26, who was standing on crutches from an injury she had received this summer in Iraq, her brief greeting seemed especially eloquent.

"I'm a Vietnam vet. Thank you for your service, and welcome home," said Lilly, who had traveled from Denver. Modglin, who is from Pennsylvania, blushed and fought back tears. "I'm just so honored to be here," the young soldier said.

Both women were among several thousand people who gathered at the Wall to pay homage to the country's veterans, both living and dead, from historic wars to present-day conflicts.
Read entire article at WaPo