Honor veterans of the Vietnam era
The Issue
Growing up in 1966 America as a 17-year-old was a time of limitations and a lack of opportunities. The legal age for many adult privileges, such as voting and drinking, was 21, leaving young individuals like myself, uncertain about our future. In this atmosphere of restriction, joining the Army appeared as the only viable option for change and a path to becoming a law-abiding citizen. This choice was made without the contemplation of losing my life, but rather as an aspiration for a better, honorable life.
However, the aftermath of serving during the Vietnam era was not as anticipated. Despite my commitment and service, I, along with many other veterans from this period, have faced persistent prejudice and discrimination. We've become pawns, our contributions undervalued, as we sought mere recognition for the sacrifices made in the name of freedom and service to our country.
The experience after returning in 1969 was a stark contrast to the dreams of the future I had imagined. Laws and practices of the time reflected discrimination and filled quotas, often leaving veterans like myself sidelined. It felt like a betrayal of the promise that service to the nation would be met with honor and opportunity.
Today, the challenges remain as veterans from the Vietnam era continue to be overlooked and disregarded. It is vital to honor these veterans and ensure they are no longer used as mere political tools but recognized for their genuine contributions to maintaining America's freedom. We must ensure that such honor is embedded within our policies and treatment of all veterans.
In light of this, I strongly urge the government and policymakers to re-examine how Vietnam era veterans are regarded and treated, revising policies to ensure better support for their service and sacrifices. These changes must start with recognizing their experiences as valuable and deserving of respect, much like any other veteran in American history.
Let's remember the true essence of serving this nation and ensure that those who have protected our freedoms are honored and supported by the country they fought for. Sign this petition to honor Vietnam era veterans and demand policy changes that truly reflect America’s gratitude for their service.
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The Issue
Growing up in 1966 America as a 17-year-old was a time of limitations and a lack of opportunities. The legal age for many adult privileges, such as voting and drinking, was 21, leaving young individuals like myself, uncertain about our future. In this atmosphere of restriction, joining the Army appeared as the only viable option for change and a path to becoming a law-abiding citizen. This choice was made without the contemplation of losing my life, but rather as an aspiration for a better, honorable life.
However, the aftermath of serving during the Vietnam era was not as anticipated. Despite my commitment and service, I, along with many other veterans from this period, have faced persistent prejudice and discrimination. We've become pawns, our contributions undervalued, as we sought mere recognition for the sacrifices made in the name of freedom and service to our country.
The experience after returning in 1969 was a stark contrast to the dreams of the future I had imagined. Laws and practices of the time reflected discrimination and filled quotas, often leaving veterans like myself sidelined. It felt like a betrayal of the promise that service to the nation would be met with honor and opportunity.
Today, the challenges remain as veterans from the Vietnam era continue to be overlooked and disregarded. It is vital to honor these veterans and ensure they are no longer used as mere political tools but recognized for their genuine contributions to maintaining America's freedom. We must ensure that such honor is embedded within our policies and treatment of all veterans.
In light of this, I strongly urge the government and policymakers to re-examine how Vietnam era veterans are regarded and treated, revising policies to ensure better support for their service and sacrifices. These changes must start with recognizing their experiences as valuable and deserving of respect, much like any other veteran in American history.
Let's remember the true essence of serving this nation and ensure that those who have protected our freedoms are honored and supported by the country they fought for. Sign this petition to honor Vietnam era veterans and demand policy changes that truly reflect America’s gratitude for their service.
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Petition created on January 13, 2026