Happy Fourth of July!
As we celebrate the birth of our nation, I would like to re-share the words of a current Army colonel. (Click below to see original post.)
On May 15, 2025 Army Colonel James Tom spoke at the NYS Vietnam Memorial Gallery in Albany’s Empire State Plaza highlighting the way that the resiliency of some Vietnam Veterans changed our society:
Fifty years ago, our nation did not treat returning warriors from the war in Vietnam very well. The majority received no recognition, no fanfare, no parades, and no welcome home ceremonies.
In fact, many returned to criticism, and in some cases outright scorn. Their families endured the hardship of separation and, in many cases, the loss of a loved one without support of their communities and nation.
Our Vietnam veterans could have turned their back on society. Instead, they changed the culture in how we treat our returning warriors today. [emphasis added]
[He turned his gaze directly to the Vietnam Veterans in the audience.]
It was you who ensured that we would never forget our warriors and our veterans ever again. And so the reason I’m here today, is to right that wrong by honoring you Vietnam Veterans with us today.
I’m also here to remind and encourage all Americans to find ways to continue to honor you —this generation of heroes and their families—who maybe haven’t received this thanks and honor.
On this holiday, I hope that you find a way to honor what has come to pass in the Vietnam Era though in many ways we still do not understand it.
If you enjoyed this essay, please like, comment, share, or subscribe. These free weekly “Stories of Vietnam” offer a historical and personal glimpse into the Vietnam Era as we approach the 50th Anniversary of the End of the Vietnam War.
To learn more about my presentations, visit Kat-Fitzpatrick.com. In the past few years, I’ve done myriad presentations alone and with Karen Kaiser. Each seems to be a chance to bring a little more understanding and healing to this vast story that is Vietnam in American history.
