Local communities are honoring Vietnam War veterans with ceremonies and proclamations on March 29, which is designated as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. Events across the region and the nation are aimed at providing a formal recognition to service members who served during the conflict, many of whom did not receive a proper welcome upon returning home decades ago.

This day of observance serves as a dedicated moment for communities to reflect on the service and sacrifice of the millions of Americans who served during the Vietnam War. For many veterans and their families, these modern ceremonies offer a belated but meaningful acknowledgment of their contributions. The events highlight a national effort to correct a painful chapter in history and ensure that this generation of service members is publicly and formally thanked for their valor.

What We Know So Far

  • The Borough of Madison issued a formal proclamation recognizing March 29 as Vietnam War Veterans Day, according to a municipal announcement.
  • In Pittsfield, about 50 people gathered for a ceremony at Park Square to commemorate the day and remember local service members, as reported by iBerkshires.com.
  • National Vietnam War Veterans Day was officially established on March 29 of each year by the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act, which was signed into law in 2017.
  • The date of March 29 is significant because it marks the 53rd anniversary of the day the last American combat troops departed from Vietnam in 1973.
  • Similar "welcome home" events are being held across the country, with reports of ceremonies in Nitro, West Virginia, and Oshkosh, Wisconsin, among others.

Local Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Events

In our area, communities are taking distinct approaches to honor their local veterans. The Borough of Madison issued an official proclamation to mark the occasion. According to TapInto.net, Mayor Robert H. Conley released the proclamation on behalf of the governing body to recognize the courage and sacrifice of those who served. The borough noted that more than 100,000 New Jersey residents served in the war, with 1,500 making the ultimate sacrifice, including nine residents from Madison.