Jill Barry

March 29 is National Vietnam War Veterans Day, a day meant to pay tribute to veterans of the Vietnam War, including personnel who were prisoners of war or who were listed as missing in action. 

Established as an observance in 2017 after the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act was signed into law by President Donald Trump, the day is also an opportunity to show appreciation for the involvement and support of allies during the Vietnam War.

On this day we honor those who, regardless of their personal feelings or family commitments, joined the service and served our country selflessly on the field of battle when their nation called.

According to the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 310, more than 2.7 million Americans served in Vietnam. Of those killed, 61% were younger than 21, with the average age of killed service members being 23.1 years.

Vietnam veterans count for almost 10% of their generation. One out of every 10 of them was a casualty, and 75,000 were severely disabled. Despite this, Vietnam War veterans received little or nothing in terms of recognition and gratitude when they returned to the United States.

The very last American troop departed from Vietnam on March 29, 1973.