The Honorable Robert Wilkie, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, delivers a message for National Vietnam War Veterans Day 2020.
President Trump signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017 on March 28, 2017, to recognize and thank our Vietnam Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice during one of the longest wars in our country’s history. This Act designates every March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day—a day for all Americans to come together to remember and honor the service and sacrifice of our Vietnam Veterans and their families.
We remember 9 million American men and women—more than 6 million living today—who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during our involvement in Vietnam from November 1, 1955, to May 7, 1975. Whether they were stationed in-country, in-theater, or elsewhere during those two decades, they answered the call to duty.
I am the son of a Vietnam Veteran and career Army officer. One of the most traumatic days of my life was being told that my father had been gravely wounded in the invasion of Cambodia in 1970. I was six. After three long years of recovery, he returned to the 82nd Airborne Division. So, my family and I experienced first-hand the enormous sacrifices this generation of Americans made in courageous service to our Nation.
This year, VA again joins more than 11,000 organizations across the country as a commemorative partner supporting the Department of Defense in this Vietnam War Commemoration. The commemoration program was launched in 2012 and continues to 2025. I invite all VA leaders to either host ceremonies or participate in community events from March 25 to March 29.
Additionally, help us reach those Vietnam Veterans who may be living in remote locations, those who are physically unable to attend commemorative events, and those in assisted living, geriatric, rehabilitative, or palliative care. It is our duty to show our deep gratitude to this generation of warriors and their families.
Please visit [ Ссылка ] to learn how your organization or facility can be a commemorative partner and participate in this important tribute. Official commemorative partnership offers historical media and opportunity to request lapel pins and other recognition items to present to Vietnam Veterans.
Thank you all for your service to VA and your devotion America’s Veterans.
-VA Secretary Robert Wilkie
