Deschutes County proclaims April 30, 2025, 50th Vietnamese American Remembrance Day; veterans share memories

The Deschutes County Board of Commissioners adopted a proclamation recognizing April 30, 2025, as the 50th Vietnamese American Remembrance Day and heard extended testimony from local veterans and community representatives.

Pao Thu (identified in the meeting as president of the Vietnamese Community of Oregon) joined remotely and thanked the county for recognizing Vietnamese Americans and honoring U.S. service members and South Vietnamese soldiers who served and died from 1955 to April 30, 1975. County staff read a proclamation signed by Oregon Governor Tina Kotek declaring April 30, 2025, the 50th Vietnamese American Remembrance Day.

Members of the Vietnam Veterans of America and other veterans told personal stories during the public comment and proclamation portions of the meeting. Speakers described war service, postwar trauma including effects of Agent Orange and difficult receptions upon return to the United States, and memorials for those missing in action. Several speakers urged the community to say “welcome home” to veterans and to recognize the sacrifices made by service members and their families.

The board moved, seconded and voted to adopt the county proclamation recognizing the 50th anniversary of the conclusion of the Vietnam War and encouraged citizens to honor those who served.

County veteran-services staff noted the Deschutes County Veteran Services office is available to help veterans access benefits. Participants in the meeting highlighted local veteran-support programs including Veterans Village, Shepherd's House programs for women and other reentry supports.

Ending: Commissioners and speakers emphasized continuing outreach and support to veterans and the county took a photo with veterans and community members following the proclamation.

(Quotations in the article are verbatim from meeting participants.)