KANSAS CITY – National Vietnam War Veterans Day is a solemn and significant occasion for the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and our nation. Established through the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017, March 29 is a time to honor the courage, sacrifice and enduring legacy of the millions of American men and women who served during the Vietnam War.
From February 1961 to May 1975, more than 3.4 million Americans were deployed in support of U.S military operations in Vietnam and throughout Southeast Asia, with more than 58,000 paying the ultimate sacrifice. According to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, nearly 1,600 remain unaccounted for.
“Vietnam veterans answered their nation’s call during a complex and deeply challenging conflict, yet far too many were met with silence or indifference upon returning home,” said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. “Their fight didn’t end overseas, and the VFW reaffirms our commitment to ensuring they receive the benefits they have earned, along with the high-quality care related to toxic exposure that still impacts their lives today.”
On this day of remembrance, the VFW calls on all Americans to take time to not only reflect on the sacrifices made by our Vietnam veterans and their families, but to thank them and to listen to their stories. To all who served, we offer our deepest gratitude and renew our enduring promise: We will never forget your service, we will never stop advocating on your behalf and we will always honor your legacy.