Vietnam veteran commemorations continue

The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration continues to conduct sizable Welcome Home events across the country celebrating and honoring Vietnam War veterans and their families. Still to come in 2023: a partnership with the Navy Office of Community Outreach for Philadelphia Navy Week (Oct. 9-15), in conjunction with the Navy’s birthday; and events around Fleet Week in San Diego Nov. 6-12, in conjunction with Veterans Day.

The commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the war was launched in 2012. Congress penned five objectives for the campaign; the first is “To thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War, including personnel who were held as prisoners of war or listed as missing in action, for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States, and to thank and honor the families of these veterans.” Vietnam Veteran lapel pins are among the markers distributed. Planning is underway for 2024 events, and the final official commemoration event will be held on National Vietnam War Veterans Day 2025, March 29.

Over the last 10 years, “thousands upon thousands” of commemorative-partner organizations across the country have conducted such events on their own, including American Legion posts. Posts that have not yet done so but wish to can learn about the process and find resources on the commemoration’s website. Partners are encouraged to report their event for inclusion on the website, and posts are encouraged to share recaps of their events on Legiontown.