BISMARCK – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Senate Veterans Affairs committees, issued the following statement on National Vietnam War Veterans Day:
“Today we remember those who served in the Vietnam War and honor their heroism, patriotism, and bravery. I urge everyone to set aside time to thank these veterans for their service and all who risk their lives to protect our nation. The world is a safer place because of them.”
In March of 2017, President Donald Trump signed the “Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act,” designating March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. For those wishing to honor these veterans while still complying with CDC guidelines during COVID—19, the Department of Veterans Affairs encourages people to stay connected and participate in virtual events online. Learn more here.
Senator Cramer also highlighted the Vietnam veterans who have been forgotten by the federal government, including the Lost 74 who perished in the sinking of the USS Frank E. Evans but whose names are not memorialized on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial wall in Washington, D.C. Last year Senator Cramer introduced the “USS Frank E. Evans Act,” which would place these soldiers’ names on the Memorial.
“We must also ask how we can better honor our Vietnam veterans. Some who served, like those who perished aboard the USS Frank E. Evans, have not been properly memorialized, with their names excluded from our nation’s Vietnam War memorial,” said Senator Cramer. “Today we remember the Lost 74, and I urge my colleagues in Congress and the Administration to support honoring them. It’s the least we can do for the 74 sailors who gave their lives fighting for our country.”