Thousands of lacrosse athletes from across Long Island played the game to support the annual Shootout for Soldiers fundraiser at John J. Burns Park in Massapequa.

The fundraiser raises money for local and national veteran organizations. There were two 12-hour blocks of the event.

The Long Island Air Force Association honored 20 Vietnam Veterans during the event.

“Its an awakening of what we went through and its like a payback. Its trendemous that these people volunteer their time do that doenus and its really heartful,” said Vietnam Veterab James Beinlich.

Many friends and family watched their loved ones who served our country get recognized.

“You would not wear a uniform when you come back from war and they didn't receive a lease, so this is after four to five decades, now they are finally getting the recognition for their efforts,” said Bill Stratemeier, chief of staff for Long Island Air Force Association.

Shootout for Soldiers hopes to raise $185,000 for veteran organizations.