ENROLLED
2015 Regular Session
HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOL UTION NO. 43
BY REPRESENTATIVE EDWARDS
A CONCURRENT RESOL UTION
To recognize November 13, 2013, through November 11, 2025, as the commemoration of
the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War.
WHEREAS, in observance of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War, it is
important as a nation and state that we reflect upon the valor of a generation that served with
honor and although long and controversial in nature, this war in many ways defined an entire
generation of Americans; and
WHEREAS, although American involvement in the conflict of Vietnam spanned
several decades and presidencies, the ground offensive officially began in March of 1965,
with the deployment of 2,500 Marines and by the end of that year, nearly 200,000 American
troops were in Vietnam. The strength of the Allied Armed Forces peaked at 543,482 troops
during the Vietnam war; and
WHEREAS, we draw inspiration from our Louisiana heros who suffered unspeakable
tragedies. Approximately 153,303 veterans suffered nonmortal wounding, 14 were held as
Prisoners of War, and 24 remain unaccounted for; and
WHEREAS, by the official end of the Vietnam War in April of 1975, nearly three
million American servicemen and women had been on the ground, in the air, on the rivers,
and at sea within Vietnam's borders serving in some capacity during the conflict. As a
grateful nation, we honor more than 58,000 patriots who paid the ultimate sacrifice during
this difficult and painful period; and
WHEREAS, of the 7,391,000 Vietnam veterans, the United States Department of
Veterans Affairs estimates that roughly 106,148 reside in Louisiana. In the half century
since the official beginning of the Vietnam War, our nation has grappled with the sensitive
effects of this struggle which accompanies all wars. Yet, we remain thankful to those who
fought in this conflict and honor the legacy of service that they built; and
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WHEREAS, the freedom and liberties we are blessed to enjoy today are a direct
result of the courage, devotion, and sacrifice of the members of our Armed Forces. We are
grateful for their brave service and draw inspiration and pride from all that they are.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature of Louisiana hereby
recognizes November 13, 2013, through November 11, 2025, as the commemoration of the
50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War.
SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE
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