Lanza Announces Passage Of Bill Commemorating March 29 As Vietnam Veterans Day

The New York State Senate today gave final passage to Senate Bill S.6472 sponsored by Senator Andrew Lanza (R - Staten Island). This legislation designates March 29 every year henceforth as Vietnam Veterans' Day in the State of New York to recognize the sacrifices of our Vietnam War Veterans.

Nearly 35 years ago, on March 29, 1973, the last 2,500 troops were withdrawn from South Vietnam thus ending military involvement in what is now the longest war in our nations history. Due to the unpopularity of this war, the men and women who survived, and the 58,195 brave souls who fought and died, were never given the proper respect and gratitude they deserved for serving their country. Of the names listed on the Vietnam Memorial Wall, 4,120 are from the Great State of New York.

"American soldiers fought in the Vietnam with honor, distinction and heroism," said Senator Lanza. "Despite their military victories on the field, the war was ultimately lost because of the lack of political and popular support back home."

"The veterans who served bravely in Vietnam were not properly recognized upon their return, a mistreatment that represents a shameful chapter in our history," continued Senator Lanza. "This is a way for New York State to rewrite that wrong and properly memorialize our gratitude for their service and sacrifice."

"I want to thank Lester Modelowitz (Specialist Fourth Class, US Army) who served in Vietnam, and all of Staten Island’s Vietnam veterans for their service and leadership with respect to bringing this legislation forward," said Lanza.

This bill is sponsored and supported in the Assembly by Assemblyman Matthew Titone and has been referred to the Veterans' Affairs Committee.

#####