About 100 people gathered at the Danville Community Center Sunday to pay tribute to 23 Danville residents who served in the Vietnam War.

Donna Marie, a Danville resident for 36 years, was the only woman honored during the event Sunday.

"I'm honored but it was breathtaking to think about the past," said Marie, who worked in Air Force intelligence for seven years, and one year during the Vietnam War. "The honor means so much more now than it would have then."

The event was inspired by an idea Mayor Mike Doyle and councilmember Newell Arnerich had about six months ago. Mayor Doyle said they felt "it was about time these men and women from the Vietnam era were recognized."

In addition to Mayor Doyle and councilmember Arnerich, councilmembers Candace Andersen, Karen Stepper, Robert Storer and other local and state officials were in attendance Sunday.

Tri-Valley native Lanisa Keith drew standing ovations for her singing of The Star-Spangled Banner and God Bless America.

Councilmember Arnerich addressed the audience after the recognition ceremony that included giving the veterans an American Flag, a plaque from the town and certificates from Contra Costa County, the State of California and the U.S. House of Representatives.

"We are truly proud to be able to serve you," said Arnerich to the veterans in the crowd." We are standing here today doing what was forgotten. People who served in Vietnam have quietly stood at the side and they never asked for anything in return."

John Garfield Resse, a member of the board of directors for the Vietnam Veterans of of the Diablo Valley said 27 of the organization's 118 members live in Danville. The organization was founded in Danville in 1990 and currently has members from San Jose to Sacramento.

The town takes pride in supporting its veterans. Councilmember Arnerich spoke about the Veteran's Hall renovation project in downtown Danville and the importance it has for the community.

"It is in a visible place in the heart of our community," said Arnerich. "It shows a deep commitment."

Since 2004 the town has operated the Sentinels of Freedom Operation Welcome home program, holding ceremonies for veterans when they return home. The Sentinels of Freedom, a national organization that provides scholarships to wounded veterans when they return home and other services, was also founded in Danville and currently has its headquarters in San Ramon.