Honoring Vietnam War Era Veterans

Vietnam Veterans received Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pins, Presidential Proclamations, and other keepsakes. PACT Act services, benefits information, enrollment into VA health care, toxic exposure screenings, and VA health care program information were also offered. 

This was the first 

This event was special, as heroes of the Vietnam War era received the honor and recognition they deserved. For many of them, it was unfamiliar territory. 

“I was excited to hear they were celebrating Vietnam Veterans and welcoming us home. This was a first for me,” said Jack Shell, U.S. Navy and Vietnam War Veteran. “It was tough back then, but things have gotten better, and I’m glad the military is treated better now than we were. It was an honor to stand up there to receive my recognition pin, and it makes me proud to be a Veteran.” 

A moment of reflection 

March 29 was designated by congress as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. The day serves as a symbol, paying homage to the final U.S. combat troops that departed from Vietnam on March 29, 1975. This departure marked the end of U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War and the beginning of our soldier’s return home. 

U.S. Army and Vietnam War Veteran Luis Davila was grateful for the day. 

“Many of my neighbors were either not coming home or were not the same. I wanted to do my part, so I dropped out of college at 19 to join the military. When we came back from Vietnam, we hid from being ostracized for taking part. Coming here is a moment of relief and a step up to be proud of what I did,” says Davila. “There were times I had dinner with fellow soldiers in the field, and the next day, they were gone. Today is a moment of reflection and a time to give thanks for the fact that I’m here while a lot of my comrades are not.”

Showing appreciation 

VFW Post 668 Commander Preston Hard led the observance. As a U.S. Army Veteran himself, he understands the importance of showing respect. 

“It’s a great honor to host and show love and appreciation to those that greatly deserve it. The Vietnam Veterans were not appreciated, recognized, or welcomed home, and we want to do all those things,” says Hard. “Every one of them gave up a lot to make the sacrifices they did, and it’s important for us to give back. The Birmingham VA and others are here with resources, and we want to offer those options to them.” 

Observing 50 years 

Observations across the nation this year mark the final 50th-anniversary celebration following the United States' complete withdrawal from Vietnam, which began with the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975. The Vietnam War is generally recognized to have begun on November 1, 1955. By encompassing the entire period from 1955 to 1975, the observance ensures that various military tours of duty and significant events are acknowledged, culminating in 2025. 

To honor the service and sacrifices of Vietnam War Veterans and their families, the United States initiated the Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemoration. This nationwide effort was authorized by Congress, established under the Secretary of Defense, and officially launched on Memorial Day, May 28, 2012. The commemoration spans 13 years, and will formally conclude on Veterans Day, November 11, 2025.