Participation on National Vietnam War Veterans Day encouraged
Staff report
Individuals, businesses, churches and organizations are encouraged to show their support of Vietnam veterans on March 29, National Vietnam War Veterans Day.
March 29 has been established as a day that all men and women who served in active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces from Nov. 1, 1955, to May 18, 1975, the time of the Vietnam War, will be recognized, according to U.S. Veterans Affairs. This includes those who served in Vietnam or elsewhere during those 20 years. Nine million Americans served during the period, including many from Haskell County.
In May 2012, the Vietnam War Commemoration was authorized by congress, established under the Secretary of Defense and launched by the president. In March of 2017, the president signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017. The law amends Title 4 of the U.S. Code “to encourage the display of the flag of the United States on National Vietnam War Veterans Day” – the simple language creates both the day and encourages the flag to be flown in their honor each year, the Veterans Affairs’ website states.
The Stigler News-Sentinel and Stigler American Legion Post 22 are focused on making area residents aware of the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act and are asking area residents to show their support of the local men and women who served in the military during the Vietnam War.
On Thursday, March 29, U.S. residents are encouraged to fly the American Flag in honor of Vietnam War veterans.
Locally, signs of support on display in businesses, plus messages of support on websites and social media are encouraged. While the day of recognition is on Thursday, area churches, organizations and others are asked to pay tribute to local veterans during services or meetings that are conducted close to March 29.
“Haskell County is proud of its veterans who served in the military during the years of the Vietnam War,” said Linus Williams, Jr., publisher of the Stigler News-Sentinel. “We encourage all residents to express their gratitude and show their support.”