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In the 1960’s and 70’s, Florida State University was leading the charge in the south against the Vietnam War. As Matt Galka tells us, today, honoring those that served has become one of the school’s top priorities.

Marty and Jan Roberts know how special Veterans Day is. Two of their children are active military.

“It’s just bravery I can’t imagine,” said Jan Roberts while holding back tears.

The appreciation for those who serve wasn’t always there. Just ask Vietnam Veteran Joe West.

“We were not well liked, most Vietnam Vets wouldn’t even acknowledge that they were Vietnam Vets, if you filled out a job application you just put down that you was doing something else,” said West.

Student protests put Florida State university at the forefront of the anti-war movement in the south during the 1960’s and 70’s.  The mood has completely changed some 50 years later.

Once called the Berkeley of the South, Florida State University is far from that today, where their film festival will be honoring those who served in Vietnam.

Critically acclaimed movie “Last Days in Vietnam” will headline the school’s program honoring Vietnam Veterans. The film was directed by Senator Robert Kennedy’s daughter, Rory.

“Whether somebody has an opinion about the war, that we shouldn’t be there or whatever, I think we all appreciate the role that the military plays, and the role that the veterans play,” said Rory Kennedy.

For Joe West, the Roberts Family, and countless other veterans including some who have made the ultimate sacrifice, a little appreciation goes a long way.

Florida is home to the third highest population of veterans in the country, including more than 500,000 Vietnam era vets.