Washington, D.C. – Bipartisan legislation authored by Senator Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.) and Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) permanently designating March 29th as National Vietnam War Veterans Day has been signed into law by President Trump.
The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act represents the first federal statute recognizing the bravery and sacrifice of veterans who served during the Vietnam War.
Donnelly said, “With this bipartisan bill signed into law, we can finally give our Vietnam veterans the additional recognition they deserve. These Americans sacrificed to protect our country – they are our family, friends, and neighbors, and it is important to honor and remember their patriotism, service, and sacrifice. I’m proud to work with my colleague, Senator Toomey, on this effort to mark Vietnam War Veterans Day.”
Toomey said, “In many cases, Vietnam veterans did not receive the warm welcome they earned when they came home. Thankfully, in the years following the Vietnam War, people and organizations across the country took it upon themselves to right this wrong by honoring the sacrifice and dedication to service our Vietnam veterans displayed. Permanently designating March 29th as National Vietnam War Veterans Day is a small, yet significant step, in these efforts. My thanks go out to our veterans and my colleague, Senator Joe Donnelly for all their help to push this legislation across the goal line.”
The Vietnam Veterans Recognition Act is supported by the Vietnam Veterans of America and Veterans of Foreign Wars.
BACKGROUND:
The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act is the first federal statute that specifically provides for the honoring of Vietnam War veterans.
· Permanently designates March 29th annually as National Vietnam War Veterans Day.
· On March 29, 1973, the last combat troops were ordered out of Vietnam.
o While many troops remained behind before the fall of Saigon – March 29 holds great meaning for many Vietnam veterans.
· Includes March 29th as a day “the flag should be displayed.”
The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act was passed unanimously by both chambers of Congress.
· Introduced in the Senate by Senator Toomey and Senator Donnelly on February 3, 2017.
o Passed Senate unanimously on February 8, 2017.
o Passed House unanimously on March 21, 2017.
o Signed by President Trump on March 28, 2017.
