[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 47 (Wednesday, March 21, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E406]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      TRIBUTE TO THE ``WELCOME HOME'' VIETNAM VETERANS CELEBRATION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CHARLES A. GONZALEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 21, 2012

  Mr. GONZALEZ. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying 
tribute to the valiant service of Vietnam War and Vietnam-Era Veterans 
who are being honored at the ``Welcome Home'' Vietnam Veterans 
Celebration in San Antonio, Texas.
  This celebration is an important opportunity to thank the veterans of 
the Vietnam War and provide them with the welcoming that many did not 
receive at the completion of their noble service to our country. It is 
important and fitting that our nation recognizes the brave service men 
and women who made profound sacrifices in the Vietnam War including the 
more than 58,000 Americans who lost their lives and the more than 
300,000 who were wounded during the Vietnam War.
  The celebration is to be held on March 30, 2012 commemorating the 
historic withdrawal of United States troops from Vietnam on March 30, 
1973. The celebration will recognize veterans in attendance with a 
presentation of the colors and full military honors.
  Throughout American history, our brave men and women have answered 
the call to protect and defend our democracy. And while our nation may 
be divided on other issues, we must always stand together in honoring 
the service and valor of our veterans. I would again ask you to join me 
in recognizing this celebration for those who honorably served and 
sacrificed for our country.

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