2025 Senate Resolution 43

Whereas, Fifty years ago after the fall of Saigon, President Gerald Ford declared May 7, 1975, as the official end of the Vietnam War; and

Whereas, We honor all who served on active duty in the United States Armed Forces at any time during the period of February 1, 1961 - May 7, 1975, regardless of duty location; and

Whereas, More than 58,000 Americans, including 2,666 Michiganders- one who was in the last group of 41 service members killed in May 1975- gave their lives for freedom’s sake. Their names are forever etched in black granite on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial wall in Washington D.C.; and

Whereas, Our nation is resolute to bring home the 1,549 missing in action, including 48 Michiganders; and

Whereas, Upon the conclusion of their service, Vietnam veterans returned home to a country deeply divided over the war, where they were not met with gratitude and pride, but with protests and disrespect; and

Whereas, Nothing that we say or do can repay our Vietnam veterans for the wounds they endured, or the pain and sacrifice they continue to live with because of their service; and

Whereas, Today, Vietnam veterans are leaders in all walks of life and serve to make America a better place to live; and

Whereas, As residents of the great state of Michigan, we must never forget the sacrifice of the men and women who fought in the name of freedom and democracy for all; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.