Governor Kathy Hochul issued a proclamation on March 29 designating the day as Vietnam Veterans Day in New York State. The announcement included plans to illuminate 15 landmarks across the state in green, yellow, and red—the colors of the Vietnam Service Medal—to honor the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans and their families. The date marks the anniversary of the withdrawal of the last American troops from South Vietnam in 1973.
The observance aims to recognize those who served during one of America’s most challenging military engagements. Many veterans did not receive acknowledgment or respect upon returning home, which officials say makes such commemorations especially important.
“Today, New York State landmarks will be lit in green, yellow and red — the colors of the Vietnam Service Medal — to recognize New York’s Vietnam Veterans and to honor those who died while serving their state and nation,” Governor Hochul said. “Many who served in Vietnam did not receive the appreciation and respect they had earned when they returned home. That is why today, and every day, we take the time to honor their courage and thank them for their service.”
Landmarks participating include One World Trade Center, Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, Kosciuszko Bridge, Empire State Plaza, Grand Central Terminal’s Pershing Square Viaduct, Albany International Airport Gateway, Moynihan Train Hall, Roosevelt Island Lighthouse among others.
Viviana M. DeCohen, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services said: “On Vietnam War Veterans Day, we pause to honor the courage, sacrifice and enduring strength of All Who Served during one of the most challenging chapters in our nation’s history. For far too many Vietnam Veterans, the recognition and respect they deserved did not come when they returned home – but today, New York stands united in gratitude and remembrance… As our landmarks shine in the colors of the Vietnam Service Medal…in New York we proudly say what should have always been said: Welcome home.”
New York is home to about 180,000 Vietnam Era veterans; more than four thousand names from New York are listed on Washington D.C.’s national memorial for those lost during that war.
The Department of Veterans’ Services continues its outreach through benefits advisors available by phone or online appointment for all who served.
