Back in the World on March 30
THE HILL--A Senate committee on Wednesday endorsed creating a working holiday to celebrate Vietnam-era veterans.
March 30 of each year would become “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day” if Senate Bill 83 passes.
That’s the day in 1973 when the last United States soldiers to leave Vietnam arrived back in the United States.
A number of Vietnam veterans testified before the Senate State Affairs Committee that such a holiday would be long-overdue recognition for their military service.
“What we would like to do is have this as a recognition of the fact that we were called or volunteered, we served, we came home, we did our duty,” said Phil Braeger of Watertown.
Lawmakers took turns praising the veterans.
“I only have two words: thank you,” said Sen. Corey Brown, R-Gettysburg.
“Anything we can do as a legislative body to continue to make you folks feel welcome at home and be welcome in our communities is extremely important,” said Sen. Jason Frerichs, D-Wilmot.
The committee approved SB 83 unanimously, sending it on to the full Senate.
