44°
ALBANY, N.Y. The New York State Assembly has passed a resolution sponsored by State Assembly member Robert Castelli (R, C Goldens Bridge), a Vietnam veteran, declaring March 29 New York State Vietnam Veterans Day.
Castelli represents the 89th assembly district, which includes Pound Ridge, Lewisboro, Bedford, Chappaqua, Mt. Kisco, Harrison and parts of White Plains.
March 29 marks the 39th anniversary of the U.S. withdrawal from Vietnam under the Treaty of Paris, and New York State ranks fourth in the nation with our population of Vietnam veterans, Castelli said in a statement. It is only fitting and proper we recognize the service of the brave men and women, who served in this tragic conflict, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice.
During the Vietnam War, Castelli served as an infantry sergeant with the 1st Air Cavalry Division of the Army, the statement said.
The resolution coincides with the nationally observed March 29 Vietnam Veterans Day. The state version notes how members of the armed services from the State of New York deserve a special salute from the state assembly, and how every citizen is indebted to the individuals who served the country during the Vietnam War, the statement said. It was adopted unanimously by the Assembly.
The resolution also resolved that the legislature pause to:
- Encourage New Yorkers to observe Vietnam Veterans Day with appropriate ceremonies and activities that provide the appreciation Vietnam War veterans deserve, but did not receive upon returning home from the war.
- Demonstrate the resolve that never again shall the nation disregard and denigrate a generation of veterans.
- Promote awareness of the faithful service and contributions of such veterans during their military service as well as to their communities since returning home.
- Promote awareness of the importance of entire communities empowering veterans and the families of veterans to readjust to civilian life after military service.
- Promote opportunities for such veterans to assist younger veterans returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan in rehabilitation from wounds, both seen and unseen, and to support the reintegration of younger veterans into civilian life.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Lewisboro and receive free news updates.
