Vietnam Veterans Day: Remembering Their Service & Sacrifice
Every year on March 29th, the United States observes Vietnam Veterans Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring those who served during the Vietnam War.
This day is an opportunity for the nation to reflect on the courage displayed and the sacrifices made by these veterans and ensure that their contributions are recognized and remembered.
Why is Vietnam Veterans Day on March 29th?
Soldiers preparing for Operation Bayonette. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Army Center for Military History)
The Vietnam War was one of the most challenging conflicts in American history, lasting from November 1, 1955, until April 30, 1975.
Over 2.7 million American service members were deployed, and more than 58,000 made the ultimate sacrifice. The war deeply affected not only those who fought but also the nation as a whole.
March 29th was designated as National Vietnam War Veterans Day because it marks the date in 1973 when the last U.S. combat troops left Vietnam and the remaining prisoners of war were released.
In 2012, President Barack Obama issued a presidential proclamation calling for its observance, and in 2017 the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act was signed into law by President Donald Trump, establishing it as an official national day of recognition.
Challenges Faced by Vietnam Veterans Returning Home
Newly released prisoners of war returning home. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Army Center for Military History)
For those who served in Vietnam, finally returning home wasn’t the celebration it should have been.
Unlike the veterans of previous wars, Vietnam veterans returned to a country divided over the conflict, where public sentiment was often indifferent, or even hostile.
Many were met with silence instead of gratitude, making the already difficult transition back to civilian life even more challenging.
Aside from the public’s reaction, Vietnam veterans faced significant challenges, including difficulties accessing healthcare, finding employment, and coping with the lasting effects of combat.
Many carried with them, the invisible wounds of war — post-traumatic stress, survivor’s guilt, and the heavy toll taken by battlefield experiences. Resources for veterans were limited, leaving many to carry this weight on their shoulders in silence.
Even in the face of these challenges, Vietnam veterans have shown incredible resilience. Over the years, they have not only overcome these hardships but have also become leaders in advocating for better treatment of all veterans. Their determination led to major improvements in VA healthcare, the recognition of conditions like PTSD, and the establishment of support networks that continue to help military service members today.
How to Honor Those Who Served on Vietnam Veterans Day
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
If you want to show your appreciation for those who served, there are plenty of meaningful ways to recognize our Vietnam Veterans.
Attend a commemoration: Drop by local ceremonies or events dedicated to honoring Vietnam Veterans to express your appreciation and show support.
Visit a memorial: Pay tribute to our Veterans at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial or a local monument dedicated to those who served in Vietnam.
Support Veterans’ organizations: Find groups that provide support to Vietnam Veterans and donate or volunteer.
Educate yourself and others: Taking some time to learn about the Vietnam War and share its history can help to ensure that the sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten.
Vietnam Veterans Day Events in the New York Area
Vietnam Veterans Day Ceremony in Croton-on-Hudson: Hosted by American Legion in Fox Eklof Post 505, this ceremony takes place at the Harmon Firehouse on March 29, 2025, at 12:00 PM. It’s a time for the community to come together to honor and remember those who served.
United War Veterans Council (UWVC) Vietnam Veterans Weekend: To mark the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, the UWVC is presenting multiple activities to honor Vietnam Veterans on March 28-29, 2025. These events aim to recognize the service and sacrifice of those who served during the Vietnam War.
A Special Vietnam Veterans Day Event in Beacon, New York
While there are many Vietnam Veterans Day events throughout the New York area and across the country, there’s a moving experience to be found right here at home in Beacon.
Vietnam Veteran and Silver Star recipient Karl Rohde will perform his one man, one act play: With No Name on the Marquee on Friday, March 28 at 6 PM ET & Sunday, March 30 @ 2 PM ET at the Veterans Memorial Building in Beacon, NY.
(Note: While all are welcome to join, the play includes language & themes that may not be suitable for young children.)
The play will take audiences on a journey through the experiences of a Vietnam Veteran stepping back into his past (and that of many of his fellow veterans) and the ways in which he grapples with his return to civilian life as well as his experiences during the war.
Accompanying the play will be music from the 1960s and 70s, performed live by the Encore Guardian Band:
Steve Seid, Acoustic Guitar: Vietnam Veteran, Combat Infantry. Helps veterans and first responders with PTSD through equine therapy at Pegasus and the Equus Effect. Serves on Guardian Revival’s Advisory Board.
Tom McClean, Singer: Vietnam Veteran, Infantry Squad Leader, Purple Heart recipient. Former NYPD officer and Medal of Valor recipient. Also served as a First Responder during 9/11.
Rich Lawson, Guitar: Recently retired from law enforcement communications.
Paul Blose, Bass: Vietnam Veteran, Marine Corps (1968-1971). Now serving as Service Officer of VFW Post 666 and Commander of American Legion Post 203.
Chris Uke, Ukulele, Acoustic Guitar, Vocals: Retired NYC Firefighter with 25 years of service. Director of Guardian Revival’s Peer Services Division.
Luc Aussavis, Sound: Operations Manager and Sound Engineer for Encore.
With No Name on the Marquee offers veterans and civilians alike a cathartic experience that provides an honest and emotional account of what it means to serve, return home, and try to make sense of a world that has moved on without you.
Karl’s play was originally performed on Vietnam Veterans Day in 2023 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the last US combat troops departing Vietnam. As Karl says, “For many of us, we are still there.”
Join us as we honor those who served and continue to find ways to heal. This event is an opportunity to connect, reflect, and show our appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who served during the Vietnam War. We hope to see you there.
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About Guardian Revival
Guardian Revival is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that improves the mental health & well-being of military, veterans, and first responders — our guardians — and their families, at no cost to them.
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Encore | Opportunities to learn, write, play, record, and share music
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Peer Services | Individual & group peer support for guardians by guardians
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