Southern New Mexico Salutes Our Vietnam Veterans Today - National Vietnam War Veterans Day.

It has been almost 60 years since the various members of our armed forces fought on behalf of the South Vietnamese people but today Alamogordo remembers.

Today in Alamogordo and throughout the US, we not only pause and reflect, but to remember and honor the memory of the more than 58,000 men and women who gave so much — paying the ultimate sacrifice for freedom’s sake, and to honor and remember that more than 3.4 million military personnel who served in the republic of South Vietnam or elsewhere in Southeast Asia in support of the U.S. military operations in the nations most divisive war that being, Vietnam. 

Though we were a nation divided, the solders continued their patriotic commitment to service demonstrated by those who served during the Vietnam War provides lasting testimony to the indomitable and tenacious spirit that resides in the hearts of our Vietnam veterans.

The many remaining Vietnam veterans are everyday people made extraordinary by events beyond their control. Our Vietnam veterans performed the highest form of public service. When it all came down to it, they stood strong, and when it was needed, they answered the challenge. They did it even when not popular. They returned to a nation in unrest and weren't always greeted with the respect and reverence they deserved.

Today in Southern New Mexico and across the land, we celebrate these soldiers and thank them for their noble efforts and achievements. Vietnam veterans are worthy of every praise, monument and memorial we could offer. But the best way to honor them is to ensure that every new generation of veterans is appreciated and receives the dignity, respect and welcome home they have earned. Making sure every veteran receives the benefits and entitlements they deserve is one way of maintaining a link to the thousands of men and women who helped secure so many blessings for us.

Thank you for your service ladies and gentlemen, today a nation stands tall and salutes you. 

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