Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and Congresswoman Delia Ramirez Honor Vietnam War Veterans with Lapel Pins Honoring their Service Before 50-Year Anniversary of War’s End

CHICAGO - Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) and Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (D-IL) joined the Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County to honor local veterans for their sacrifice ahead of the official 50-year anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. At the ceremony, the two members of Congress presented the veterans with Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pins and a congressional commendation letter for their bravery and service to the nation. During the 20-year conflict in Southeast Asia, more than 58,000 American soldiers, including 3,000 Illinoisans, lost their lives in service to the nation.

"America owes our veterans a debt we can never fully repay," Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. "I was honored to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War by presenting local Vietnam veterans with pins recognizing their service. Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten."

"In recognition of 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War, I commemorate the sacrifices made by our veterans who returned home carrying the weight of their experiences. As their Congresista, I am committed to honoring their service, not just with pleasantries or rituals, but with actions," said Congresswoman Ramirez, who serves on the Veterans' Affairs Committee. "We made a covenant to take care of veterans and their loved ones. May we never forget or break that promise."

Last year, Congressman Krishnamoorthi presented similar pins to local Vietnam veterans at a ceremony in his home district of St. Charles. The congressman also championed bipartisan legislation to rename the St. Charles post office the Veterans of the Vietnam War Memorial Post Office to honor those who served during the war.