Introduction

National Vietnam War Veterans Day is a US holiday observed annually on 29 March. It recognises veterans who served in the US military during the Vietnam War.

Brief History

29 March was chosen as National Vietnam War Veterans Day because on 29 March 1973, Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV) was disbanded and the last US combat troops departed the Republic of Vietnam. The last unit was elements of MACV’s Infantry Security Force (Special Guard), actually special couriers.

On 29 March 2012, President Barack Obama proclaimed 29 March 2012, as Vietnam Veterans Day. The proclamation called “upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that commemorate the 50 year anniversary of the Vietnam War.”

On 26 December 2016, the Vietnam Veterans Day Coalition of States Council presented a letter to President Elect Donald Trump and Congressional leadership outlining the history and timeline of cause to establish 29 March as Vietnam War Veterans Day and requesting that it be one of the first legislations passed and signed into law during the 115 Congress.

On 28 March 2017, President Trump signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017. This act officially recognises 29 March as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. The Act also includes the day among those days on which the US flag should especially be displayed.