National Vietnam War Veterans Day
Observance
11:00 am
Saturday, March 25, 2023
The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act was signed into law on March 28, 2017. It designates every March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. March 29 is a fitting choice for a day honoring Vietnam veterans. It was chosen to be observed in perpetuity as March 29, 1973 was the day United States Military Assistance Command Vietnam (MAAG-V) was disestablished and also the day the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam. In addition, that same day Hanoi released the last of its acknowledged prisoners of war.
A national commemoration was previously authorized by Congress, established under the Secretary of Defense, and launched by the President to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. Congress outlined a total of five objectives for The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, with the primary objective being to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the Nation, with distinct recognition of former prisoners of war and families of those still listed as missing in action. The four remaining objectives highlight the service of our Armed Forces and support organizations during the war; pay tribute to wartime contributions at home by American citizens; highlight technology, science and medical advances made during the war; and recognize contributions by our Allies.
The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration honors all U.S. 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. November 1, 1955 was selected to coincide with the official designation of MAAG-V; May 15, 1975 marks the end of the battle precipitated by the seizure of the SS Mayaguez. The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that today there are more than 6 million U.S. Vietnam veterans living in America and abroad, along with 9 million families of those who served during this time frame.
We make no distinction between veterans who served in-country, in-theater, or who were stationed elsewhere during the Vietnam War period. All were called to serve and none could self-determine where they would serve. Georgia National Cemetery Advisory Council (GNCAC) honors all U.S. Vietnam veterans at an appropriate ceremony in March. To support this and future programming by GNCAC, please donate today:
