AARP Wyoming Shares Vietnam Story in the Nation’s Capital

Photo credit: Beth (Dagny's mom)

What began as a simple request for travel support blossomed into a profound journey of discovery, bonding, and gratitude. Thanks to AARP Wyoming, 12-year-old Dagny, her grandfather Randy, and her mother Beth shared an extraordinary experience they will cherish for a lifetime.

When Dagny, a 12-year-old from Cody, submitted a heartfelt video about her grandpa Randy’s time in Vietnam to a school competition, she had no idea it would change their lives. Her documentary quickly won local and state competitions, earning her a spot at the National History Day competition in Washington, D.C. But the family’s excitement soon turned to concern as they faced the high costs of travel.

That was until a family friend and neighbor reached Tim Sheppard, head of the Wyoming Veterans Commission and AARP Wyoming Veterans’ Advisory Council. Tim, who had just returned from taking 15 Wyoming Veterans to Washington DC reached out to AARP Staff and it was decided that not only Dagny should go to DC, but that the AARP Wyoming Veterans Advisory Council would cover Randy’s costs to go along with her (Afterall it was his story that was being told).

"It’s amazing—we had no idea this would happen," said Beth, clearly moved by the support.

For Randy, the trip was more than travel; it was fun and a beautiful bonding experience with his granddaughter.

“I usually spend more time with my Nana,” Dagny said with a grin. “So it was great to get to know Grandpa better—and I’m really glad he could come along.”

The experience also gave the family a new perspective on AARP’s mission.

“I didn’t realize AARP supported veterans in such meaningful ways,” Randy shared.
“This experience has truly broadened my understanding of what AARP does,” Beth added.

• Randy’s Favorite Moment: Touring the U.S. Capitol and walking past iconic landmarks like the White House.
• Beth’s Most Emotional Experience: Visiting the Vietnam Veterans Memorial after the competition.
• Dagny’s Favorite Memory: Attending an Orioles baseball game—made unforgettable by a wild fly ball that bounced through the bleachers in a spontaneous game of hide-and-seek.

The family shared many joyful moments, from mealtimes full of laughter to Dagny's humorous run-in with Secret Service officers. “They told me they were short-staffed and I should sign up,” she said, laughing. “I almost believed them!”

The trip was also eye-opening for Dagny. She noticed the sharp contrast between the low levels of homelessness in Wyoming and the significant number of unhoused individuals in D.C., sparking thoughtful conversations during their time together.

“I really appreciate the assistance,” Randy said. “I didn’t even realize it was happening—then suddenly, we had this gift card, and we were packed and ready to go. It was a wonderful surprise.”

“Thank you, AARP, for paying attention to someone under 60,” Dagny added with a smile.

Beth echoed their gratitude.

“This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience—one that showed me how deeply AARP cares about veterans and families.”

Photo credit: Beth (Dagny's mom)

Dagny is now working on a Shutterfly memory book to preserve their special trip. While she didn’t place at the competition, she received strong scores from the judges—competing among nearly 3,000 students from across the globe. She already has her sights set on competing again next year through Cody Middle School’s GATE program.

“Any veteran family being supported by AARP to do something like this would absolutely love it,” Randy reflected. “This experience played a big part in our lives. It helped us out—and brought us even closer.”

Dagny summed up the trip well in this short video clip


Looking for more about AARP Wyoming's Veteran work? Check out these videos highlighting two recent projects - we were able to take Billy from Cheyenne and his husband Paul to the Vietnam Memorial, and the team recently provided a service dog to a Veteran with PTSD in Laramie.

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AARP has a proud tradition of supporting those who’ve served our country. In 2018, we launched the Veterans and Military Families Initiative to strengthen the health, well-being, and lives of veterans and their families.

With nearly 6 million AARP members who have served or are currently serving, AARP is the largest veterans support organization in the country.

Learn more at aarp.org/veterans