Sánchez, Gallagher introduce resolution honoring Vietnam War veterans

Press Release

Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-CA) and Congressman Mike Gallagher (R-WI) introduced a bipartisan resolution today designating the last Saturday of March as "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day." This resolution provides long overdue recognition to thousands of Vietnam War veterans for their dedicated service to our country. The last Saturday of March, which this year falls on March 26, is intended to recognize the day when the last U.S. combat troops completed their service and left Vietnam.

"Our brave servicemembers should be greeted like heroes when they return home," said Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez. "Sadly, many who served in Vietnam were met with hostility instead of appreciation for their service and their sacrifice. This resolution rights that historic wrong, honoring our Vietnam veterans the way they always should have been honored. I am proud to introduce this resolution alongside colleagues on both sides of the aisle, just as I have done every Congress since I was elected."

"Vietnam veterans did not receive the welcome home they deserved. While our country has come a long way in celebrating the men and women in our armed forces, it's past time to honor the courage and sacrifice those who served in Vietnam," said Congressman Mike Gallagher. "I'm proud to join Rep. Sanchez in this effort to ensure these veterans get the long-overdue recognition they earned for their service to our country."

Upon returning home from Vietnam, many veterans were denied the proper recognition for their service due to ongoing public and political debate. Some veterans were even attacked personally, contributing to already existing physical and emotional injury. This resolution honors the millions of Americans who served their country and were denied a hero's welcome when they returned to the United States.

Congresswoman Sánchez began her work to honor Vietnam veterans in 2003, following a meeting with her constituent Jose Ramos, a Vietnam veteran formerly from Whittier, CA who had worked tirelessly to recognize his fellow veterans. Since then, "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day" has received broad bipartisan support by the House of Representatives since Congresswoman Sánchez first introduced it in the 108th Congress.

The resolution is cosponsored by Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Lucy McBath (D-GA), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Scott Peters (D-CA), Nikema Williams (D-GA), Filemon Vela (D-TX), Jim Himes (D-CT), Dina Titus (D-NV), David Valadao (R-CA), and Derek Kilmer (D-WA).

You can read the full resolution here.

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