The proclamation passed by the town council declares:
WHEREAS, on January 12, 1962, America’s first combat mission against the Viet Cong marked the beginning of one of the nation’s longest and most challenging conflicts. Over more than a decade, the service of American men and women in uniform stood true. In honor of the more than three million who served and in tribute to those laid to rest, it remains important to reaffirm the nation’s dedication in showing a generation of veterans the respect and support of a grateful nation.
WHEREAS, the Vietnam War is a story of service members of different backgrounds, colors and creeds who came together to complete a daunting mission. It is a story of Americans from every corner of the nation who left the warmth of family to serve the country they loved. It is a story of patriots who braved the line of fire, who cast themselves into harm’s way to save a friend, who fought hour after hour, day after day to preserve the liberties they held dear.
WHEREAS, eleven years of combat left an imprint on a generation. Thousands returned home bearing shrapnel and scars, and still more were burdened by the invisible wounds of post-traumatic stress, Agent Orange and memories that would never fade. More than 58,000 laid down their lives in service to the nation. Now and forever, the names of Montgomery County residents are etched on a lasting memorial at the Christiansburg Town Square as a tribute to those who bore conflict’s greatest cost.
WHEREAS, on March 29, 1973, the last of the troops left Vietnam. Yet, in one of the war’s most profound tragedies, many of these men and women came home to be shunned or neglected – to face treatment unbefitting their courage and a welcome unworthy of their example. Today, Americans shall reaffirm one of our most fundamental obligations: to show all who have worn the uniform of the United States the respect and dignity they deserve.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that I, D. Michael Barber, Mayor of the Town of
Christiansburg, on behalf of and with the support of Christiansburg Town Council, do hereby declare March 29, 2020, as Vietnam Veteran’s Day in Christiansburg, Virginia. We call upon the residents of Christiansburg to join in this special observance with appropriate gratitude and commemorations for veterans on the anniversary of the resolution of the Vietnam War.
ADOPTED, this March 17, 2020.
D. Michael Barber, Mayor, Town of Christiansburg
