Wied, Sánchez introduce resolution to honor Vietnam War Veterans with national recognition day

US Rep. Tony Wied (WI-8th)

In a bipartisan effort to honor Vietnam War veterans, Congressman Tony Wied (R-Wis.) and Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.) have introduced a resolution designating the last Saturday of March as “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day.”

The resolution, announced yesterday, aims to provide long-overdue recognition to those who served in the war, acknowledging the hardships they faced both during and after their service.

March 29, which this year falls on a Saturday, marks the anniversary of the day the final U.S. combat troops left Vietnam. Wied and Sánchez emphasized the significance of this date, noting that many Vietnam veterans did not receive the respect and appreciation they deserved upon returning home.

“Our Vietnam veterans risked their lives for our country under incredibly dangerous conditions,” Wied said. “Unfortunately, when they returned to the U.S., they were met with harsh treatment and did not receive the respect and admiration they rightfully earned. That’s why I’m proud to stand with Rep. Sánchez in introducing this bipartisan resolution. This is long overdue, and it’s time we finally give our Vietnam veterans the hero’s welcome they deserve.”

Sánchez echoed the sentiment, highlighting the injustice faced by many veterans.

“Our veterans put everything on the line to defend our freedom, and they deserve to be celebrated as heroes when they return home,” she said. “It’s a shame that so many Vietnam veterans faced disrespect and rejection instead of gratitude for their service. This resolution is a step toward correcting that injustice, ensuring that our Vietnam veterans receive the recognition and honor they have long deserved.”

Following the Vietnam War, returning service members often faced hostility and neglect due to public and political divisions surrounding the war. Many struggled with both physical and emotional wounds while being denied the hero’s welcome given to veterans of other conflicts. The resolution, backed by bipartisan lawmakers, seeks to formally acknowledge their sacrifices and offer overdue national gratitude.

The measure has received additional support from Representatives Scott Peters (D-Calif.), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), and Abraham Hamadeh (R-Ariz.), reinforcing a broad congressional push to recognize Vietnam veterans for their service and sacrifice.