PORT ANGELES – Sunday, March 29 is National Vietnam War Veterans Day. It’s the newest of 7 days that have been officially set aside to honor veterans and current military personnel.

In 2017, the President signed into law The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act, designating every March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day, joining Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day, Navy Day and Veterans Day.

March 29 was seen as a fitting choice for honoring Vietnam veterans. On that day in 1973 the United States Military Assistance Command in Vietnam was disestablished and the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam. That same day Hanoi released the last of its acknowledged prisoners of war.

The local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Forks, Joyce, Port Angeles, & Sequim is working with the Clallam County Veterans Association to hold a Vietnam War Veteran Commemoration Ceremony two times per year. Scheduling the next such ceremony is on hold because of uncertainties with the coronavirus outbreak, but organizers are hoping for some time in September.

When that time comes, each Vietnam veteran or surviving spouse/family member will receive a certificate and lapel pin.
If you are a Vietnam veteran or surviving spouse/family member and would like a lapel pin and certificate please contact Ginny Wagner, Commemorative Partner Chair, Michael Trebert Chapter, NSDAR by phone at (360) 582-6820 or by email at paul.ginny.wagner@gmail.com.

Please join our nation this March 29th, 2020, to thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War, including prisoners of war, or missing in action, for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States and to thank and honor the families of these veterans.