Rep. Dan Crenshaw and Sen. Dan Sullivan introduced a joint resolution this week, honoring the sacrifices Vietnam Veterans made – and offering an apology on behalf of the U.S. government for the mistreatment they received abroad and upon returning home.
The resolution cites the “biased and shameful attacks” from politicians and academics against Vietnam Veterans, and recognizes the veterans' toxic exposure to Agent Orange. It also calls on the President to issue a long overdue, formal apology to the veterans and their families for the treatment they endured. This year will mark the 50th anniversary of the withdrawal of U.S. troops from the Vietnam War on March 29, 1973.
“The veterans of the Vietnam War made immense sacrifices in their service to our country," said Rep. Dan Crenshaw. "These men suffered horrendous treatment both abroad and upon returning home—not only facing verbal and physical attacks from anti-war protestors and politicians, but also suffering from the horrific effects of Agent Orange and PTSD. Many gave their own lives. This long-overdue formal apology on behalf of the U.S. government is a good start to ensuring our veterans receive the respect and support they need. We must swear to never forget, and never let this mistreatment happen again.”
“Fifty years have passed since the signing of the Paris Peace Accords, which brought an end to the war in Vietnam,” Senator Dan Sullivan said. “It is a sad fact that the honorable service of our Vietnam Veterans was often met with dishonorable treatment by their fellow citizens when our military members returned home. This was a sad episode in America’s history. Yet, Vietnam Veterans have gone above and beyond in supporting subsequent generations of veterans, ensuring the next generation of military members would be honored for their service. Think about how incredible and selfless the service of our Vietnam Veterans has been. It’s something I’ve witnessed in my own Marine Corps career many times over the years. I am honored to introduce a Senate companion to Congressman Dan Crenshaw’s House joint resolution to officially commend our Vietnam Veterans for their courageous service and to apologize to them and their families for the disgraceful treatment they endured.”
Read the full resolution here.