The term "Vietnam Veterans Day" is a proper noun, as it is the specific name of a commemorative day. In the United States, National Vietnam War Veterans Day is observed annually on March 29.
The selection of March 29 is historically significant. This date marks the day in 1973 when the final U.S. combat troops departed from South Vietnam. It also coincides with the day the last acknowledged American prisoners of war were repatriated from North Vietnam. The date was officially established as a national observance when the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017 was signed into law, designating a specific day to honor the nine million American men and women who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces from November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975.
The practical purpose of this observance is to provide a dedicated day for the nation to thank and honor the veterans of this specific conflict and their families. Unlike Veterans Day, which honors all veterans, or Memorial Day, which honors those who died in service, this day focuses solely on the unique experiences and sacrifices of the Vietnam generation, many of whom did not receive a proper welcome upon returning home.
