By Aaron White As a CIA helicopter was loaded with evacuees and lifted off from a rooftop in Saigon in the spring of 1975, an era came to an end. This moment signaled the end of nineteen years of the American war in Vietnam. It marked the end of the jungle combat and long deployments away from home for some. For others, it was the end of years of protests for peace. But it also marked the beginning of a new chapter in America, a chapter defined by veterans coming home--some, only to be met with scorn and distain by their fellow countrymen. But slowly over months and years emotions softened, and there was a need to honor the veterans of Vietnam for their service, heroism, and valor.          Connecticut began celebrating its Veterans a decade after the end of the war. Starting in Wallingford, plans had started being drawn up for a parade in 1973. The parade was eventually held down Center Street in 1985. This marked when Vietnam veterans be...