The May 16 Vietnam Vetereans of American 227 membership meeting at Glory Days Grill (6341 Columbia Pike, Falls Church) guest speaker is Michelle Layer Rahal, who will discuss her collaborative book, “Straining Forward: Minh Phuong Towner Story.” Minh’s life struggle starts when she witnessed the VietCong killing her father and two brothers. Minh and her younger brother left Saigon in 1975 in their quest for freedom. They journeyed through Taiwan, France, Australia and the United States.

Come early for the 7:30 p.m. meeting for a meal and to meet fellow members. Spouses and friends are welcomed. Bring a fellow Vietnam veteran or a new generation veteran with you. The book, “In Honor and Memory” that lists and describes U.S. and Allied military installations in South Vietnam and Southeast Asia, is available for viewing. See Bill Dumsick. Plus the traditional 50/50 raffle includes cash and an artistic hand carved wooden bowl by George Jones.