A Colorado congressman is working to ensure that a program honoring the service and sacrifice of Vietnam War veterans continues beyond its planned end this year.
Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse is advocating to make the Vietnam veterans’ commemoration an ongoing event to recognize those who served in the war.
The Vietnam Veterans Commemoration Program
The annual ceremony, started by President Obama, has become a deeply meaningful event for Neguse, who personally participates in honoring veterans.
Each year, he presents each veteran with a pin, a certificate, and a “welcome home” that many did not receive when they returned from the Vietnam War over 50 years ago.
Originally, the program was set to end on Veterans Day this year. However, Neguse, along with two Republican colleagues, has introduced a bill to extend the program indefinitely, ensuring that future generations of Vietnam veterans are honored.
A Personal Mission for Joe Neguse
“Every year, we put in a lot of effort to try to find Vietnam veterans in our community. We’ve got 53 towns, 12 counties in my district, so we do a lot of outreach,” said Neguse. “We’re surprised every year to find more veterans from that war who have not been recognized.”
He emphasized that the program is one of the most significant ways he serves his community and believes that the commemoration should continue permanently.
Neguse’s efforts don’t stop at honoring veterans; he also connects them with important services. His work last year, which led to the passing of the “Mental Health for Military Families Act,” expanded access to mental health services for veterans and their families.
The act has been crucial in addressing the mental health challenges faced by those who served and their loved ones.
Participating in the Ceremony
Veterans who wish to participate in this year’s commemoration are encouraged to RSVP online to be part of the ceremony. The program provides a chance for veterans to come together, receive recognition, and learn more about the resources available to them.
Joe Neguse’s push to make the Vietnam veterans commemoration permanent reflects his deep commitment to supporting those who served in the Vietnam War.
By extending this program indefinitely, he hopes to ensure that all veterans are properly honored for their service and sacrifice, providing them the recognition they were denied decades ago.