Last night, the Senate passed by unanimous consent Senator John Thune’s (R-S.D.) bipartisan resolution (S.Res. 280) recognizing the sacrifice that U.S. combat troops made during the Vietnam War and pressing for renewed support for the veterans of that conflict. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Vietnam on March 29, 1973. Thune’s resolution was cosponsored by Senators Max Baucus (D-Mont.) and John McCain (R-Ariz.).
“As Americans gather to celebrate Veterans Day and reflect on the service of those who have bravely answered the call to defend our freedoms, I am pleased the Senate passed this bipartisan resolution to honor the service and sacrifice of America’s Vietnam veterans,” said Thune. “Forty years after withdrawing our combat troops from that theater, the cost of the war remains staggering. Vietnam veterans continue to deal with the wounds of that war on a daily basis. I am pleased that my colleagues have joined together to reaffirm our dedication to these brave men and women, as we owe all of our veterans a tremendous debt of gratitude and hold the solemn duty of providing for their care.”
South Dakota has a proud history of answering the call to serve, and Thune is especially mindful of the ultimate sacrifice made by so many in the Vietnam War, including 193 South Dakotans, which is why he is a cosponsor of S. 409, a bill to designate March 29th as Vietnam Veterans Day.
Preceding Veterans Day this Monday, Thune took to the Senate floor Thursday night to recognize the selfless service and sacrifice of America’s veterans, including the service of so many South Dakota men and women. Thune urged Congress to rededicate its efforts to caring for our service members and continue to combat mental health issues among veterans.
Video of Thune’s floor speech can be viewed here and downloaded for use here.