How to Respect a Vietnam Veteran
The Vietnam War was the longest conflict in U.S. history. Active troop involvement began in 1954 and ended in 1975. The war divided the citizens of the United States and, with a strong anti-war sentiment in America, the brave soldiers who served also became a topic of debate. With the war long over, the memories of it -- especially for the men and women who served -- are not. If you have not had the privilege of showing Vietnam veterans the respect they deserve, find about ways that you can show your respect today.
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Instructions
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Defend the honor of all Vietnam War veterans. During your day-to-day activities, talk about the respect that you have for Vietnam veterans. Get other people into a conversation about the honor that our Vietnam veterans have earned. Make sure your opinion is heard. Be vocal. Remind people who were against the Vietnam War that the soldiers still need to be respected.
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Visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Erected in 1982, it lists the names of the nearly 60,000 soldiers who served in the war. Take a trip to pay tribute to the brave men and women who fought in the Vietnam War.
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Celebrate Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Attend parades and memorial services. Pay tribute to all Vietnam veterans by being an active participant. Instead of staying home, attend an event with your family. Greet Vietnam veterans that you see. Talk with them and shake their hands. Tell the Vietnam veterans that you respect them for their bravery and service.
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Donate money or goods to organizations that help Vietnam veterans. These brave soldiers should be honored and should not be in need. Locate organizations online and get involved. If you're unable to donate money, donate time. Vietnam veterans organizations will welcome your help. The veterans that you help will appreciate your efforts and be grateful for your respect.
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Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper and address it to all Vietnam veterans. Tell them that you think honorably of them and respect them. Use your local newspaper to reach out to all the veterans in your area. Your letter will also serve as a reminder to other citizens to show respect to the Vietnam veterans.
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Read the stories of Vietnam veterans. Search online for websites created by veterans that share the personal stories of Vietnam. Show your respect for them by reading their stories. Leave a comment, letting them know how much you care about them. They deserve your time and will appreciate the respect you show them.
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Acknowledge the trauma that Vietnam veterans have been through. Understand that many of the veterans have physical and psychological ailments. Many soldiers still endure the effects the Vietnam War had on them. Show your respect by acknowledging the long-term effects that the war has had on many veterans.
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