(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today released the following statement in recognition of the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War:
“On this day fifty years ago, the last of the United States combat troops left South Vietnam. Throughout the duration of the war, thousands of men and women from Connecticut served, and every community in our state felt the impact. To this day, we are still grieving for those who are missing in action and those who lost their lives in battles.
“At the time, the merits of the war were passionately debated here at home, becoming increasingly angry and divisive. To unwarranted and unfair effects, our nation’s service members returned from Vietnam to a deafening silence. We can never undo the damages that occurred fifty years ago, however we can commit to righting the wrongs.
“Our Vietnam veterans deserve respect and gratitude for serving our nation during one of America’s longest foreign wars. I strongly encourage everyone in Connecticut to thank these courageous individuals and let them know that future generations will never forget their sacrifice. We are fortunate to walk among men and women so courageous that they will go into battle to protect us and our way of life. On behalf of the State of Connecticut, I thank Vietnam veterans for their service to our nation.”
On Thursday, March 30, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs will host a Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony on its campus at 287 West Street in Rocky Hill. The ceremony is open to the public and all are welcome to attend.