Minnesota Dept. of Veterans Affairs to host commemoration of 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War

The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs has announced it is hosting the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War in June.

The three-day event for Vietnam-era veterans and their families, allies of the United States and all Minnesotans who want to thank the state’s veterans, is being held June 13-15 at the Mall of America.

Over the three days, attendees can see historical displays from the Minnesota Military and Veterans Museum and watch screenings of Vietnam War documentaries. There will also be a chance to view the American Veterans Traveling Tribute Memorial Wall and walk through a resource fair, which will provide valuable resources and information for Minnesota Vietnam veterans and their families.

“We are humbled to honor our Minnesota Vietnam-era veterans and allies of the United States through this special event. This group of veterans made great sacrifices fighting a very difficult war and did not receive a warm welcome when they returned,” said MDVA Commissioner Brad Lindsay.

On Friday, June 14 at 11 a.m., there will be a Commemoration Program at the Mall of America in the Huntington Bank Rotunda with music and storytelling, followed by a complimentary brunch for vietnam veterans.

The event will highlight the service of the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War, recognize the crucial contributions and deep sacrifices made by the allies of the United States during the Vietnam War, and provide an opportunity for healing, thanking and honoring Minnesota Vietnam veterans in whatever branch or capacity they served.

“We hope this event will provide gratitude and healing for our veterans, our allies and their families, and provide them the opportunity connect with other Vietnam veterans and learn about valuable resources available to them,” said Lindsay.

For more information, contact Chris Kakos, MDVA Agency Planner, at chris.kakos@state.mn.us , or Anne Sonnee, MDVA Communications Director, anne.sonnee@state.mn.us .

Further information will be provided soon regarding event details, transportation and other logistics. This event is open to the public.

For more information visit MinnesotaVeteran.org/Vietnam50 . Attached below is the event schedule and some facts regarding the upcoming event.

• Event Schedule
• Event Fact Sheet