Established under the secretary of defense in 2012, the U.S. Vietnam War Commemoration group has spent years recognizing and honoring the service of Vietnam veterans. All U.S. combat forces were withdrawn from Vietnam in March 1973, and unlike military members in previous wars, they were not given a hero’s welcome upon their return.
Now, 50 years after their homecoming, the Vietnam War Commemoration is honoring veterans with its “Welcome Home” ceremony, which will take place May 11-13 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The centerpiece of the celebration is Camp Legacy, which will span two locations, the Plaza of Appreciation and the Plaza of Service.
The locations will tell the story of the Vietnam War through the perspective of those who fought it and will also provide a veterans services hub. Numerous events are available to attendees, including memorial walks, remembrance ceremonies, celebrity meet-and-greets and other activities. For more information, visit vietnamwar50th.com.