It has been more than 30-years since our Vietnam Veterans returned home and Sunday those veterans were honored in a ceremony at Springfield's Vietnam Memorial.

This year’s ceremony focused specifically on the contributions of Native American veterans.

CBS 3 Springfield’s reporter Lesley Tanner reported that in several native languages there are words that mean soldier, warrior and protector, which highlight commitment to service.

“The warriors represent the strength of our people. The ones who are able to protect the women and our children and our land,” said Troy Phillips, a Native American Vetera

More than 40,000 Native Americans served during the Vietnam War, according to official records.