Bluffton Mayor John Whicker signed a proclamation on Monday, March 27, declaring March 29, 2023 Vietnam Veteran’s Day. He was joined by members of Bluffton Chapter 698 of the Vietnam Veterans of America. 

Mayor John Whicker signs a proclamation making March 29, 2023, Vietnam Veteran’s Day. Pictured from left to right are Bob Frantz, John Reusser, Rick Smith, Mayor John Whicker, John Senac, and Ben Jones. (Photo submitted)

The proclamation read as follows: Whereas, we remember the thousands of brave Americans, both men and women, who served honorable with courage and valor in the United States Armed Forces during what was until that time this nation’s longest war, facing extraordinary dangers while fighting in Southeast Asia; and whereas our nation owes an immeasurable debt of gratitude to the more than 3 million veterans who served in Vietnam; the more than 58,000 who made the ultimate sacrifice, and to all who returned home more than 40 years ago to a nation in turmoil, and were denied proper welcome; and whereas, in 2012, our nation launched a 13-year-long commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War to ensure that every veteran, family, caregiver, and survivor impacted by the war knows and experiences our gratitude for their sacrifice. Every service member of the Vietnam generation should know that their sacrifices mattered and that their service made a difference. 

Now, therefore, I, John Whicker, Mayor of the City of Bluffton, Indiana, do hereby proclaim, March 29, 2023, as Vietnam Veteran’s Day and urge all citizens to join in this special observance and take the opportunity to honor and thank our Vietnam Veterans for all they have given in the service of our country.