"upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that commemorate the anniversary of the Vietnam War." 
- Barack Obama

The Vietnam War stretched across two decades, from November 1, 1955, to April 30, 1975—a conflict that many Americans today may not fully understand in terms of the incredible sacrifices made. In May 2012, President Barack Obama took a significant step by officially designating March 29 as Vietnam Veterans Day, creating a dedicated time to honor those who served.

The intention of this day is to recognize the efforts of nearly 9 million U.S. soldiers – men and women alike - for their acts of valor.

A War that Defined a Generation

To help put it in perspective, this war lasted almost 25 years and outlasted 5 U.S. Presidents. Millions of military personnel served in the war, and over 50,000 soldiers lost their lives in the line of duty. While over 600 POW returned home, there are still over 1,500 soldiers are still unaccounted for according to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. For those who did return, the homecoming often lacked the recognition their service deserved. The controversy surrounding the war frequently overshadowed the valor of those who answered their nation's call, regardless of personal politics.

It took our nation more than four decades to formally acknowledge the courage and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans, those who left behind the safety and comfort of home to serve in a deeply divisive conflict.

National Vietnam War Veterans Day

While President Obama made March 29th Vietnam Veterans Day in 2012, Trump took it a step further in 2017 and signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act making it an official national holiday. The Act also includes the day among those days on which the US flag should especially be displayed. Each year on this date, the Department of Defense will support hundreds of events taking place throughout the country honoring Vietnam War Veterans.

Citizens can participate by flying their POW/MIA or their Vietnam Veterans of America flag as visible symbols of respect and remembrance. 

The Memorial That Heals

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a black granite wall and inscribed on it are the names of more than 58,000 men and women who gave their lives or remain missing. The Memorial is dedicated to honor the courage, sacrifice, and devotion to duty and the country of all who answered the call to serve during one of the most divisive wars in U.S. history. The wall stands tall in front of the Washington Monument and thousands of visitors from all over the world come to see the names of heroes of the Vietnam War.

Though the conflict lasted too long and the cost in human lives is devastating, the bravery and determination of American service members remains undeniable. Their commitment to bringing peace to Vietnam reflects the highest ideals of service and sacrifice—values we continue to honor on National Vietnam War Veterans Day.