Honoring Vietnam War Veterans: A Day of Remembrance

National Vietnam War Veterans Day is a time for all Americans to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served during one of the most challenging conflicts in US history. By understanding the significance of this day and its history, we can honor these veterans with the gratitude and respect they deserve.

What is Vietnam Veterans Day?

National Vietnam War Veterans Day is an important flag-flying holiday in the United States. We use this day to honor and recognize the service and sacrifices of the Americans who served in the Vietnam War. 

The Vietnam War was a lengthy and costly conflict that lasted from the 1950s to the 1970s. It involved the United States, South Vietnam, North Vietnam, and other Southeast Asian countries. The war was fought between the politically split North and South Vietnam, which had been divided into two regions after the fall of the French colonial government in 1954. 

Over 2.7 million Americans served in the Vietnam War, and over 58,000 lost their lives. Many of these veterans returned home to a country that was deeply divided over the war and often met with hostility and disrespect. For years, these veterans were not given the recognition they deserved for their service. Thus, a movement to show honor to America’s Vietnam veterans led to the founding of Vietnam War Veterans Day, ensuring these veterans and their service are remembered and celebrated each year.

When is Vietnam Veterans Day?

National Vietnam Veterans Day is observed annually on March 29th in the United States. 

When Was Vietnam Veterans Day Established?

In 2012, the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, President Barack Obama signed a presidential proclamation designating March 29th of that year as Vietnam War Veterans Day. This date was chosen to honor the service of Vietnam veterans because it was the day in 1973 when the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV) was disbanded, and the last American combat troops left Vietnam.

On December 26, 2016, the Vietnam Veterans Day Coalition of States Council asked President-Elect Donald Trump and Congress to establish every March 29th as Vietnam War Veterans Day. On March 28, 2017, President Trump signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act. National Vietnam War Veterans Day was also added as a day on which the American flag should be flown according to the US Flag Code through an amendment made by this bill.

How to Celebrate Vietnam War Veterans Day

Vietnam War Veterans Day is a time to pay tribute to the brave Americans who served in Vietnam and to remember the sacrifices they made for our country. 

On this day, we remember the soldiers who fought and died in Vietnam, as well as those who returned home and continue to carry the physical and emotional scars of war. We also remember the families of these veterans and the sacrifices they made while their loved ones were away.

Vietnam War Veterans Day is a time to thank all Vietnam veterans for their service. It is a day to remember the past and pay respect to those who have served their country with bravery and dignity. Be sure to take a moment to recognize and honor the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans on this day and fly your American flag proudly. 

Ways to celebrate Vietnam War Veterans Day:

• Reach out to Vietnam War veterans in your community and offer them messages of gratitude and support. 
• Check with your local military bases and veterans organizations to see if they host any ceremonies or events. 
• Decorate the graves of Vietnam War veterans with US stick flags.
• Flying the American flag in front of your home or business.

As we observe National Vietnam War Veterans Day, let us take a moment to acknowledge the courage and sacrifices of those who served. Whether by attending a local ceremony, reaching out to a veteran, or proudly flying the American flag, we can all play a part in showing our appreciation. Their service and dedication to our country should never be forgotten. This March 29th, let’s remember, honor, and thank our Vietnam veterans.