During the last 40 years, Veterans have often received frequent words of thanks and a warm homecoming when returning from deployments.

That was not the case 50 years ago, when Vietnam-era Veterans returned from a war-time assignment to find many Americans angry and less than appreciative of their service.

Vietnam Veterans vowed to never let another generation experience what they did. They are now often leading the charge to ensure more recent Veterans hear words of thanks and appreciation.

The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) committed to correcting the experience from 50 years ago for Vietnam-era Veterans. And those attending the commemoration event at the Mall of America June 13 to 15 heard those words of thanks many times over, had opportunities to connect and heal with their peers, and were encouraged to learn more about the Federal and State benefits they have earned through their military service.

The Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemoration event featured exhibits from the Minnesota Military and Veterans Museum, the American Veterans Traveling Tribute wall, a resource fair with 30 organizations serving Veterans, opportunities to record oral histories of Veterans’ experiences, and displays from Southeast Asian Allies who now make Minnesota their home. The event was a great success with hundreds of Veterans and family members attending over the three days and significant media coverage across the state.

A formal program was held on Friday, June 14 with speakers including Vietnam Veterans Pam Barrows and Larry Mahoney, Governor Tim Walz, U.S. Senator Klobuchar, MDVA Commissioner Brad Lindsay, Maj. Gen. Edward Chrystal from the Department of Defense United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, and the Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke. All speakers echoed sentiments of gratitude and themes of honor and respect.

“Today is a special day. A long overdue day. A day of gratitude. A day of recognition. Of remembering the service and sacrifice of our Vietnam-era Veterans,” said MDVA Commissioner Brad Lindsay. “The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs is honored to host this event because we want ALL our Veterans to be proud of their military service and – perhaps at long last – hear words of thanks from Minnesotans.”

Vietnam Veterans also received a commemorative lapel pin at the ceremony from the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration. Maj. Gen. Edward Chrystal noted, “It may be small in size but it carries with it tremendous meaning.” He explained the pin’s design:

• It has a message embossed on the back: “A grateful nation thanks and honors you.”
• On the front is an eagle emblem representing courage, honor and dedicated service to our nation.
• A blue circle surrounds the eagle and matches the canton of the American flag signifying vigilance, perseverance and justice.
• Inside the circle is a laurel wreath, a time-honored symbol representing honor and victory.
• The stripes behind the eagle represent the American flag.
• The six stars represent the six allies who served, sacrificed and fought alongside one another: the Commonwealth of Australia, the Kingdom of Thailand, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea and the Republic of the Philippines.

MDVA has additional pins for those who would like one. Email MDVA.Communications@state.mn.us to request a pin and provide your name and mailing address.