VA Western New York Celebrates Vietnam War Veterans Day
VA Western New York Health System (VAWNY HS) joined the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration and the nation for National Vietnam War Veterans Day (NVWVD).
NVWVD recognizes and thanks Vietnam Veterans for their service and sacrifices NVWVD honors all veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time from November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975, regardless of location, and their families.
In 2017, the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act was signed into law by President Donald J. Trump, designating every March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. March 29 was chosen to be observed as National Vietnam War Veterans Day in perpetuity as March 29, 1973, was the day United States Military Assistance Command, Vietnam was disestablished and also the day the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam.
During a ceremony on March 29, facilitated by Nancy Kaszynski, CTRS from VA WNY Recreation Therapy, hospitalized Vietnam Veterans were presented with lapel pins and a proclamation by retired Army Lt. Col Terry McGuire. “It's vitally important to recognize and honor our returning Veterans with welcome home type events, said McGuire."
McGuire returned from deployment in January 2004, and fondly remembers the welcome home he received. “Vietnam Veterans made all the difference. Their honor guard stood tall with us and our families in the Niagara Reserve Airbase hanger, welcoming us with a homecoming they never receive. It brought tears to my eyes," said McGuire.
Today, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) estimates there are more than 7 million Vietnam veterans living in America and abroad, along with 10 million families of those who served during this timeframe.
By Presidential Proclamation, The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration will continue through Veterans Day, November 11, 2025.