National Vietnam War Veterans Day is a day of remembrance and honor for those who served in the Vietnam War. This special day, observed on March 29 each year, commemorates the sacrifices made by Vietnam veterans and their families. It's a part of a national effort to give proper recognition to the men and women who were denied a proper welcome upon returning home more than 40 years ago.
The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act, signed into law in 2017, officially designates March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. This date is significant because on March 29, 1973, the last combat troops were withdrawn from Vietnam and the last prisoners of war held in North Vietnam arrived on American soil.
According to the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 310, more than 2.7 million Americans served in Vietnam. Tragically, one out of every 10 of them was a casualty, and 75,000 were severely disabled. Despite their service and sacrifice, Vietnam War veterans received little recognition and gratitude when they returned to the United States.
On National Vietnam War Veterans Day, communities across the country pay tribute to these veterans. For example, Post 1033 in Covington, Virginia, honors local veterans with a Wall of Valor at the Covington Post Office. This wall changes throughout the year to recognize as many Vietnam Veterans as possible, culminating with the arrival of The Wall That Heals, a traveling replica of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington D.C., on October 2, 2024.
In addition to local efforts, the Federal Government launched a Vietnam War Commemoration on Memorial Day 2012 to remember the Vietnam War 50th anniversary over a 13-year period. This commemoration will conclude on Veterans Day, November 11, 2025.
On this day and every day, we honor and thank Vietnam veterans for their service and sacrifice. As the saying goes, "We are the land of the free because of the brave."