WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – The Kansas Veterans Festival concluded Sunday, and patrons and organizers had an opportunity to share their perspectives on what makes it such a special occasion.
“It all started with a bunch of veterans who just wanted to get together for weekend fun,” Michael Kasselman, Kansas Veterans Festival public relations director, said.
For over 36 years, those like Kasselman have done their part in making veterans feel honored, but the festival wasn’t always what it is now.
“We went from being an event for veterans and pretty much veterans only. Our founders realized that their families were a big part of their lives and should be a part of it,” Kasselman said.
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Vietnam veteran Henry McVay was at the first gathering, then called the Vietnam Veterans Reunion, and he saw an opportunity to help the festival grow.
“We want you to bring your moms, dads, kids, everything, but there was nothing for the kids to …