Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings proclaims March 29, 2026, National Vietnam War Veterans Day

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings issued a proclamation on March 27, 2026, declaring Sunday, March 29, 2026, as National Vietnam War Veterans Day in Orange County, Florida, and urged residents to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies.

The proclamation, read aloud by Demings, said in part: "I, Jerry Demings, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Orange County Mayor, do hereby proclaim Sunday, March 29th, 2026 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day in Orange County, Florida, and urge all residents to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and never forget the sacrifices made in the name of freedom. Done and ordered this 27th day of March 2026." The mayor framed the day as one of recognition, remembrance, healing and education for Vietnam veterans.

Demings noted the difficult reception many Vietnam veterans received on return to the United States, saying many "came home being spat on, never welcomed, never thanked," and said public expressions of gratitude are important. He also referenced honor flights and the emotional impact of veterans being thanked when they return.

During the brief ceremony an attendee urged those present to thank veterans directly: "Everybody say thank you for your service ... that's what I say when I talk to my—when I talk Vietnam veteran, I say thank you for your service because you paved the way of what we have today. So, it's a great honor for me," the resident said.

The proclamation was dated and signed March 27, 2026. The occasion included an opening performance of the national anthem and short remarks; there was no formal vote recorded. The county encouraged residents to observe March 29 with appropriate ceremonies to honor Vietnam War veterans.