The Shadow
VIRGINIA (VR) – March 29, 1973, marks the anniversary of when the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam, and the day the U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV) was disestablished in 1973. The day honors all U.S. military members who served on active duty from November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, regardless of where they were stationed. The year 2026 is particularly significant as it marks the 51st anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War and the 53rd anniversary of the final withdrawal of U.S. combat troops.
There were over 3 million Vietnam War casualties from 1955 until 1975. Over 2.7 million Americans served during the war in 1973. Vietnam was the second-longest war, aside from the ongoing Afghanistan War. (AI). An estimated 300,000 Vietnam War veterans died of Agent Orange. Anyone wishing to honor these veterans can do so through the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund’s In Memory Program. Anyone needing assistance with this can reach out to Marian Paxton at 843-653-6098 or marianpaxton@gmail.com.
National Vietnam Veterans Day is acknowledged on March 29 every year, honoring anyone who served during the 20 years. Since respect and combat support weren’t immediately given to those who served after the war ended because of the number of deaths, the day was founded in 2017 to finally offer that respect to everyone involved.
Understanding it wasn’t the soldiers’ choice to go to war, U.S. Senators Pat Toomey, R-PA, and Joe Donnelly, D-IND., introduced legislation proposing the anniversary of the withdrawal of military units from South Vietnam as the date. It was President Donald Trump who signed the Act on March 29, calling for U.S. flags to be flown on this day to honor everyone who served during this time, whether they were in Vietnam or not.
Every year since it was founded in 2017, this national day has continued to be recognized on March 29. Aside from honoring those who fought, four other parts of this day that are meant to be highlighted are the service of the Armed Forces and support organizations during the war; the wartime contributions at home; the advancements in technology, science, and medicine; and the contributions by American allies. (NATIONAL TODAY)
Five facts about the Vietnam War:
1. The average age of soldiers was 19 – this is a big difference from the average age of 26 in WWII.
2. The Medal of Honor was awarded 258 times – This is the highest military decoration. There are two Medal of Honor recipients in the Alleghany Highlands.
3. The U.S. spent over $140 billion on the Vietnam War – In today’s economy, that’s about $1 trillion.
4. 500,000 people attended the anti-war rally. There were many all over the world, but this one took place in Washington, D.C., in 1969.
5. It isn’t called the Vietnam War in Vietnam – It is called the American War.
Why We Love National Vietnam War Veterans Day
1. This day is special because it doesn’t just recognize soldiers who fought in it, it recognizes anyone who was involved. Whether it’s the families who struggled back home, those working the support lines, or even other soldiers stationed elsewhere during the same time, this day is to appreciate everyone.
2. It altered society’s perception – When soldiers first returned, people were not respectful toward them. War is drastic on the economy, but many who were involved had no choice but to go, and they deserve the respect and recognition for that. This national day changed that negative view.
3. It gives veterans a chance to share their experience – It’s not easy to talk about the war, especially if you were a soldier. You probably witnessed a lot of terrible things. But a national day like this gives people an opportunity to share their experiences and teach the world a lesson on why wars should be avoided in the future.
This article is full of Vietnam War facts provided by National Today – National Vietnam Veterans Day, but the facts serve as a reminder of the casualties of war and its effects on the soldier who returns home after doing his patriotic duty to a nation that wasn’t happy with the war. The men and women who served in Vietnam (ALL PAID SOME, SOME PAID ALL) must never be forgotten.
Vietnam Veterans Day is a day to celebrate and attend ceremonies held by various communities. The Alleghany Highlands does not offer this, but there will be a ceremony held at the Vietnam Veterans in Washington, D.C., a special Open House at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond on March 27, and a Vietnam Veterans Day Welcome Home Lunch at the Virginia War Memorial.
Vietnam veterans (and all veterans) needing assistance in the Alleghany Highlands can reach out to the Alleghany Highlands Community Services Board at 540-965-2135 or Marian Paxton, VFW Post 1033, at 843-653-6098.
Don’t forget to thank a Vietnam veteran on this special day and thank them for their service. God bless all these veterans, and God bless America.
