Governor Pillen, NDVA honor Vietnam War veterans at State Capitol ceremony

Pillen signs declaration March 29 Vietnam War Veterans Day

LINCOLN, Ne. – On March 28, Governor Jim Pillen and Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs (NDVA) Deputy Director Levi Bennet honored Vietnam War period veterans at Nebraska’s annual Vietnam War Veterans Day ceremony.  

 “The soldiers who served in Vietnam made a huge impact that resonates to this day,” said Gov. Pillen. “Today’s ceremony was about acknowledging their sacrifices and letting them know that the people of Vietnam, the United States, and Nebraska are truly grateful for their service.” 

 During the ceremony, Gov. Pillen signed a proclamation declaring March 29 “Vietnam War Veterans Day” in the state of Nebraska. Nationally, March 29 has been recognized as Vietnam War Veterans Day since 2017. 

 “Nebraska remains dedicated to serving our veterans and their families,” said NDVA Deputy Director Bennett. “Recognition events like this are a great opportunity for our team to meet with veterans face-to-face and not only recognize them for their service but learn their needs and connect them with the benefits they’ve earned. It was an honor to be a part of today’s ceremony recognizing Nebraska’s Vietnam veterans.” 

 More than 150 people attended the ceremony, including 75 Vietnam veterans as well as family members, friends, and fellow veterans. Around 64,000 Nebraskans served during the Vietnam War, and the state is currently home to around 33,000 Vietnam-era veterans according to data from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics. Events are being held throughout the state—including at the four state veterans’ homes—to honor and recognize them for their service this week. 

 NDVA’s mission is to honor Nebraska veterans and their families by providing excellent service, assistance, and care. Its state service office helps veterans identify and access federal benefits, such as disability compensation and healthcare through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and state benefits, such as Nebraska Veterans Aid, tuition waivers, and more. Its four state veterans’ homes offer high quality assisted living and skilled nursing care to veterans and eligible family members across the state. Its cemetery system ensures eligible veterans receive an honorable final resting place maintained to the highest national standards.

To learn more about NDVA and how it serves Nebraska’s veterans and their families, please visit veterans.nebraska.gov.