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U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz’s Baumholder Main Exchange recognized Vietnam Veterans with a ceremonial pinning on National Vietnam War Veterans Day, March 29.
March 29 is National Vietnam War Veterans Day, a day meant to pay tribute to veterans of the Vietnam War, including personnel who were prisoners of war or who were listed as missing in action.
Established as an observance in 2017 after the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act was signed into law by President Donald Trump, the day is also an opportunity to show appreciation for the involvement and support of allies during the Vietnam War.
On this day we honor those who, regardless of their personal feelings or family commitments, joined the service and served our country selflessly on the field of battle when their nation called.
According to the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 310, more than 2.7 million Americans served in Vietnam. Of those killed, 61 percent were younger than 21, with the average age of killed service members being 23.1 years.
Vietnam veterans count for almost 10 percent of their generation. One out of every 10 of them was a casualty, and 75,000 were severely disabled. Despite this, Vietnam War veterans received little or nothing in terms of recognition and gratitude when they returned to the United States.
The very last American troop departed from Vietnam on March 29, 1973.
On Memorial Day 2012, President Barack Obama launched a Vietnam War Commemoration to remember the Vietnam War 50th anniversary over a 13-year period.
During this time, the Federal Government pledged to partner with local communities and private organizations to honor and recognize more than 58,000 patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, the 150,000 who were wounded, and to do everything possible to bring home more than 1,700 service members who are listed as missing in action. (Data provided by the Defense Casualty Analysis System).
The 13-year commemoration will conclude on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2025.
Andre Sallis, U.S. Air Force veteran and customer service representative at the Baumholder Main Exchange, talked about the tradition of Vietnam War Veterans Day at the event held March 29.
“This day is the perfect opportunity to honor deserving veterans for their bravery and service,” said Sallis.
Staff Sgt. Kevin Aponte, 44th Expeditionary Signal Battalion, Baumholder, attended as guest speaker at the event.
“Both my grandfather and my father inspired me to serve my country,” he said. “I want to thank all veterans, most particularly those who are here today.”
A total of six veterans and the wives of two veterans who recently passed away were recognized and awarded Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pins to symbolize their courage, honor and dedicated service.
