The members of the Vietnam Veterans of Carbon County presented an award to their retired chaplain, Daniel Bauer, at the veterans meal get-together at Penn’s Peak earlier this month.

“It meant a lot to me, it really did,” Bauer said.

Danny, as he is known to the veterans, served the organization with honor and pride for many years.

“He was always a presence and a prayer ready at parades, funerals for our veterans and special events, plus our VVOCC meetings,” said Rudy Balas, commander of the group.

“I enjoyed being the chaplain,” Bauer added. “I felt I needed to do it. I could talk to the men and when someone passed away, I always thought a lot about them.”

Last year Bauer came down with medical issues and decided to pass on his chaplain responsibilities.

“I know he did this with a heavy heart,” Balas said.

Bauer served his country in the Army from 1965 until 1967; he served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967.

He resides with his wife in the Palmerton area.

The VVOCC has named Dennis Ockenhouse, a past commander, as its new chaplain.