Page 18 - IAV Digital Magazine #566

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History of National Vietnam W ar Veterans Day
The Vietnam War has a long history. It was one of the longest wars involving America. Starting in 1955, the war went on until 1975, making it the second-longest war, aside from the ongoing Afghanistan War. Over 2.7 million Americans served during this war In 1973. All combat and support units withdrew from Vietnam fol- lowing the war, but it contin- ued to have an impact on many of the families and people affected by the war.
National Vietnam War Veterans Day is acknowledged on March 29 every year, honoring anyone who served during its 20- year time. Since respect and combat support wasn’t
immediately given to those who served after the war ended because of the num- ber of deaths, the day was founded in 2017 to finally offer that respect to every- one involved.
Understanding that it wasn’t the soldiers’ choices to go to war, U.S. Senators Pat Toomey, R-Pa., and Joe Donnelly, D-Ind., introduced the legislation proposing the anniversary of the withdrawal of military units from South Vietnam as the date. It was President Donald Trump who signed the Act on March 29, calling for U.S. flags to be flown on this day to honor everyone
who served during this time, whether they were in Vietnam or not.
Every year since it was founded in 2017, this national day has continued to be recognized on March 29. Aside from honoring those who fought, four other parts of this day that are meant to be highlighted are the service of the Armed Forces and support organizations during the war; the wartime contribu- tions at home; the advancements in technology, science, and medicine; and the contributions by American allies.
iAV - Antelope Valley Digital Magazine