Gallagher Resolution Would Make Today 'Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day'

Reps. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Linda Sanchez (D-CA) introduced a bipartisan resolution 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 is today, March 25, this year, marks the day when the last U.S. combat troops completed their service and left Vietnam.

"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 of 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."

"Our servicemembers sacrifice so much to keep us safe. They deserve nothing less than a hero's welcome when they return home," said Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez. "Sadly, many Vietnam veterans were met with hostility instead of appreciation for their service. Establishing a national 'Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day' would help right that historic wrong and finally give our Vietnam veterans the recognition they deserve. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution today, just as I have done every Congress since I was elected."

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.

In addition to Reps. Sánchez and Gallagher, the resolution is cosponsored by Reps. Steve Cohen (D-TN), Henry C. "Hank" Johnson (D-GA), Derek Kilmer (D-WA), Scott Peters (D-CA), and Jim Himes (D-CT).

You can read the full resolution here.