Today (March 29, 2022) is “National Vietnam War Veterans Day.”
March 29, 1973, was the day the United States Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, was disestablished and also the day the last US combat troops left Vietnam. In addition, around this same day, Hanoi released the last of its acknowledged prisoners of war.
State Veterans Affairs Secretary Greg Whitlock says those who fought in Vietnam performed with a steadfastness and valor that veterans of other wars salute. He encourages all Americans to remember and honor those who served during the Vietnam War.
More than 27,000 South Dakotans served during the Vietnam War and 210 made the ultimate sacrifice. Some defended as ground troops in a combat capacity in country, some were a mile offshore on a Navy ship providing fire support, and some were air support. Others provided the necessary support roles in Vietnam, at nearby posts, and back in the States that were vital during the foreign engagement. All who served were affected in some way by their experience.
The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017 was signed into law by President Donald Trump, designating every March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day.
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