National Vietnam War Veterans Day
By Jewelean Magee
March 29, 2022, marks Vietnam War Veterans Day across America, a day for Americans to come together and express gratitude to the countless men and women who served in the military during the war, whether they served in Vietnam, Europe, or Stateside.
National Vietnam Veterans Day was first established by President Barack Obama in 2012. He spoke of the tragedies of the war, the heroism, and the patriotism exhibited by combat veterans. He also emphasized the importance of extending the same honor and gratitude to Vietnam veterans as is given to all U.S. military veterans. This day was designed to remember the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, and it was signed into law on March 29, 2012, by President Donald Trump, who felt that Americans needed to reflect on this challenging time in the country’s history.
The Vietnam War, which began in 1961, saw the service of 2.5 million American military personnel, including 7,000 female nurses who served with distinction and honor. The war officially ended in 1975. However, the reception Vietnam veterans faced when returning home was far from welcoming. These veterans were met with antiwar protesters who chanted hateful slogans and insulted them for simply obeying the law and following the orders of their country’s leaders.
The impact of the Vietnam War still lingers for many veterans today. Numerous veterans suffer from cancers caused by exposure to Agent Orange, a defoliant chemical used extensively during the war to strip the Viet Cong of cover for their guerrilla activities.
Beyond physical illnesses, many veterans have faced deep emotional scars. They endured shame and embarrassment upon their return, making it difficult to adjust to civilian life. Others struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), homelessness, lack of medical care from the VA (depending on their discharge status), and difficulties accessing the educational and financial benefits they earned.
National Vietnam War Veterans Day provides Americans with the opportunity to recognize and say "thank you" for the service of those who served during the Vietnam War. It also offers these veterans the long-overdue "welcome home" they never received.