[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 163 (2017), Part 6]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 8631]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING THE VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA CHAPTER 400

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BARBARA LEE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 2, 2017

  Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary men and 
women from Oakland who gave their lives serving our country in the 
Vietnam War. I recognize their invaluable sacrifice and offer my 
gratitude for their bravery during a contentious time in American 
history.
  Unfortunately, Vietnam veterans have not received the proper 
recognition for their service. Prejudice overshadowed praise, as many 
of the stigmas associated with the war wrongfully biased the public 
against the soldiers. Veterans have endured decades of misplaced 
criticism, blame and ignorance--this must be corrected.
  It is time that we, as Americans, give these brave veterans the 
commendation they deserve. We must honor those who made the ultimate 
sacrifice to preserve our freedom and that of our country. It is 
critical that we acknowledge the important servicemen and women, as 
they are fundamental to the preservation of our democracy.
  Since 1979, the Vietnam Veterans of America has served to support and 
advocate on behalf of this generation of Veterans. The organization has 
worked tenaciously to promote greater public awareness of the issues 
surrounding Vietnam-era veterans in attempts to reform the public's 
general perceptions. The VVA has given veterans a voice in our 
government, advocating on behalf of the injured, ill, and all others in 
need. By holding government agencies accountable, the VVA ensures 
equitable and beneficial policies for this generation and those past.
  As someone whose father served in the Army, organizations like the 
VVA are incredibly important to me. I personally understand the 
sacrifices that these men and women make on a daily basis and believe 
they deserve my utmost respect.
  I commend the Vietnam Veterans of America for installing the Vietnam 
War memorial honoring the 100 men from Oakland who were killed in 
action. This monument will serve as an important reminder of the 
sacrifices made to assure our freedom and the freedom of others. The 
memorial will help properly commemorate not only Vietnam Veterans, but 
all who dedicate their lives to serve and protect us on a daily basis.
  On behalf of the 13th District, I thank the Vietnam Veterans of 
America for its dedication to aiding and bettering the lives of well-
deserving Veterans in America.

                          ____________________