PROCLAMATION - Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day

WHEREAS, the Vietnam War was fought in Vietnam from 1961 to 1975, and involved North Vietnam and the Viet Cong in conflict with United States Armed Forces and South Vietnam; and

WHEREAS, on March 30, 1973, the United States Armed Forces completed the withdrawal of combat troops from Vietnam; and

WHEREAS, the Vietnam War was an extremely divisive issue among the people of the United States; and

WHEREAS, members of the United States Armed Forces who served bravely and faithfully for the United States during the Vietnam War were, upon their return home, caught in the crossfire of public debate about the involvement of the United States in the Vietnam War; and

WHEREAS, one thousand one hundred twenty-three members of the United States Armed Forces from Washington State were killed or were declared missing in action in Vietnam, and hundreds were wounded; and

WHEREAS, more than 184,505 Vietnam era veterans live in Washington state; and

WHEREAS, our Nation stands stronger for their service, and

WHEREAS, the people of Washington realize one of our most fundamental obligations is to show all who have worn the uniform of the United States the respect and dignity they deserve, and to honor their sacrifice by serving them as well as they served us. 

WHEREAS, Washington state passed legislation in 2013 proclaiming March 30 of each year as Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day in our State;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jay Inslee, Governor of the state of Washington, do hereby proclaim March 30, 2020 as

Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day

in Washington State, and I urge all citizens to join me in this special observance.