National Vietnam Veterans Day is observed annually on March 29 in the United States. This date was chosen to commemorate the day in 1973 when the last U.S. combat troops departed from Vietnam and the final acknowledged American prisoners of war were repatriated.
The official designation of this observance was codified into federal law through the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017. Signed on March 28, 2017, the act established March 29 as a national day to recognize the service and sacrifice of the approximately nine million Americans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War period. The date specifically marks the withdrawal of the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV) and the return of prisoners of war as part of Operation Homecoming.
The day is observed with ceremonies, tributes, and events across the country to honor the service members of that era. Its purpose is to provide a formal and widespread expression of gratitude, distinctly separating the recognition of the warrior from the political discourse surrounding the war itself. This national observance offers a welcome and acknowledgment that many veterans did not receive upon their return home, highlighting their courage, service, and sacrifice.
