Medal of Honor recipient Lt. Thomas R. Norris will describe his experience in Vietnam at Saturday's 10th annual Reflections Banquet at the Carson Nugget.
The banquet is the main fund-raiser for the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter No. 388, serving Carson, Douglas, Lyon, Washoe counties.
Guests will be treated to music by the Silver Dollar Chorus of Reno, a silent auction and keynote speaker Norris, a former U.S. Navy SEAL.
Chapter president Jim Weller said Norris will provide the audience with his story of service.
"It's an honor to have him here and what he represents," Weller said.
Weller met Norris when both were agents for the FBI.
Norris, who now lives in Idaho, entered the U.S. Navy in Silver Spring, Md. When in Vietnam, he led a five-man patrol through heavily controlled enemy territory to locate and return two downed pilots.
He was shot in the face by a North Vietnamese fighter and almost died, Weller said. The loss of one eye didn't stop Norris from entering the FBI, where he worked for 20 years before retiring, Weller said.
The event is the main fund-raiser for the veteran's chapter. Money raised will go back into the community through student scholarships and other activities. The chapter erected and dedicated the state's Vietnam Veterans memorial at Mills Park last year.
Tickets for the event are $30. Call Terry Hubert at 849-9544 for tickets and information. Some tickets will be available at the door, but reservations are encouraged.
The organization expects veterans and members from Las Vegas and Winnemucca at this year's event, though anyone from the public is invited to attend the fund raiser.
IF YOU GO
What: Reflections Banquet
Where: Carson Nugget
When: 6 p.m. Saturday
Cost: $30
