Vietnam Veterans Day: This Is How Texas Pays Tribute

Honoring Vietnam Veterans: A Tribute to Those Who Served

One of the things I love most about being a Texan is how deeply we appreciate our veterans, no matter when or where they served. Our Texas veterans are heroes, each and every one of them.

Each year, on March 29th, Vietnam Veterans Day, we honor the millions of brave men and women who answered the call of duty during one of the most controversial wars in American history. This national day of recognition was officially established in 2012 when President Barack Obama signed a proclamation to ensure that Vietnam veterans received the honor and gratitude they deserve.

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A War That Changed a Generation

The Vietnam War touched nearly every American family. It’s likely that most of us have a relative or know someone who served in Vietnam. Between 1955 and 1975, more than three million American service members were deployed to the region. Of those, over 58,500 never made it home, and thousands more were wounded, injured, or remain missing in action (MIA).

In a war that divided the nation, these brave men and women put their lives on the line, not for politics, but for duty, honor, and their fellow soldiers. Their sacrifices should never be forgotten.

March 29, 1973: The Last Troops Depart Vietnam

March 29th marks a pivotal moment in U.S. history—the day the last American combat troops left South Vietnam in 1973. While military advisors and U.S. Embassy personnel remained for two more years, this departure marked the beginning of the end of America’s direct involvement in the war.

Two years later, on April 30, 1975, the world watched as helicopters lifted the final U.S. personnel from the U.S. Embassy in Saigon, bringing a chaotic and heartbreaking conclusion to the conflict.

A Brotherhood Forged in War

Despite the divisiveness of the war, the soldiers who served in Vietnam stood united. They came from every walk of life, every background, and every corner of our nation. They formed an unbreakable brotherhood in the face of relentless hardship.

The U.S. Department of Defense puts it best:

"It is a story of Americans from every corner of our nation who left the warmth of family to serve the country they loved. It is a story of patriots who braved the line of fire, who cast themselves into harm’s way to save a friend, who fought hour after hour, day after day to preserve the liberties we hold dear."

The Greatest Injustice: How America Failed Its Vietnam Veterans

Perhaps the most tragic part of the Vietnam War wasn’t just the fighting—it was what happened when these service members returned home. Unlike the heroes of World War II, who were welcomed with parades and celebrations, Vietnam veterans were met with hostility, neglect, and even scorn.

Many were called names, shunned, and made to feel ashamed of their service. Instead of gratitude, they faced anger. Instead of support, they were left to battle PTSD, injuries, and the lifelong scars of war—often alone.

America owes them so much more than they received.

This March 29th: Honor a Vietnam Veteran

Vietnam Veterans Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a reminder that we must never forget the sacrifices made by those who served.

This March 29th, take a moment to thank a Vietnam veteran. If you see one, shake their hand, buy them a coffee, or simply say, "Welcome home."

It may be long overdue, but it’s never too late to show them the respect they deserve.