Wounded U.S. Vietnam War Soldier (Photo: Creative Commons)
If your California American Legion post has organized an event for National Vietnam War Veterans Day, we invite you to share your plans with us by sending an email to news@CaLegion.org.
March 29 holds significance as the day the United States Military Assistant Command, Vietnam was disestablished and the last combat troops withdrew from Vietnam. It was also when the last prisoners of war held in North Vietnam returned to American soil, as well as President Nixon’s selection for the first Vietnam Veterans Day in 1974.
The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017 established National Vietnam War Veterans Day to recognize the bravery and patriotism of Vietnam Veterans who were previously denied a proper welcome home. This act was a part of the American Vietnam War Commemoration launched by President Barack Obama in 2012, to express gratitude to these Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. President Donald Trump’s proclamation in 2017 reiterated the importance of remembering the sacrifices made during the Vietnam War era and ensuring that the service of these Veterans is respected and honored for generations to come.
While debates exist about the appropriate date for celebrating “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day,” March 29 is widely acknowledged. Most states celebrate on March 29 or 30 of each year, with California designating March 30 for this purpose. This day now stands alongside Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veterans Day as an annual observance under Title 4 of the United States Code §6.
The commemoration extends to all individuals who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during this period. More than 8 million Service Members served in Vietnam from November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, per the U.S. Department of Defense.
Many Veterans returned to a divided country and struggled to readjust to civilian life. Today, hundreds of thousands of Vietnam Veterans still suffer from the lingering effects of physical, mental, and emotional trauma endured during their service. It is important to recognize and welcome these Veterans home with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Visit vietnamwar50th.com for more information on events commemorating this nationally recognized day.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.