The Hays Public Library is hosting a local Veteran who is part of a national movement.

Wayne Purinton, who resides near Wakeeney, will be speaking in the Library’s Schmidt Gallery Thursday August 29th at 6:00 pm. Purinton served in the Army during the Vietnam War, arriving in early 1967 and returning home in April of 1968.

Lucia Bain from the Hays Public Library told Hays Post that she reached out Purinton to share his amazing story.

“Wayne wrote a book called “Journey back from Vietnam: One Soldier’s Long Road Home from War” about his year in Vietnam and the letters that he wrote.  He talks to a lot of high schools and veteran’s groups.  I know he gave a very nice presentation on Memorial Day.  He’s really a good speaker. ”

She added that Purinton does a great of deal of work helping both veterans and the Vietnamese.

Purinton is the President of the Board of Directors of the Veterans Vietnam Restoration Project.  The organization sends veterans, family members and others back to Vietnam to heal the spiritual and emotional wounds suffered during the war and to reconcile with the Vietnamese people.

During Thursday’s talk, Purinton will recount his experience in the Vietnam War, how it changed him and what he is doing now to reconcile with the Vietnamese.  There is no cost to attend.