Today's DAR
We can be proud that every DAR State Society is now a Commemorative Partner of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration. The Commemoration was established in 2008 to “Thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War, including personnel who were held as prisoners of war, or listed as missing in action, for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States and to thank and honor the families of these veterans.” Public law 110-181 Ss598 empowers the Secretary of Defense to conduct a program on behalf of the nation that commemorates the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War. This law also authorizes the Secretary to coordinate, support and facilitate federal, state, and local government commemorative programs and activities. To that end “The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration” was formed.
Thank a Vietnam Veteran
In addition to state societies, local chapters are encouraged to become Commemorative Partners. Thousands have already – and the National Society has a goal to see every chapter become a partner in order to thank those Veterans who served for America and came home to a nation that did not give them a heroes’ welcome.
The time to join is now. Yes, Daughters, there is still time to join.
Apply online at www.vietnamwar50th.com. This website has all the information and forms you need to join, along with suggestions and ideas with photos and compelling commemorative stories. Are you wondering what your commitment will be? You will need to have two activities or events per year for three years and will need to register your event and file an after-action report. You will receive free materials and information you can use for events. It’s easy to take part – and yet so very important to do so.
Did your Chapter help place flags in cemeteries on Memorial Day? Or march in a parade on July 4th or Veterans Day? Present flags at any of these events? Meet with American Legion Posts for any event? All these count as events/activities for the Commemoration. Invite a Vietnam War Veteran to give a program to your chapter to discuss their experience the war. My chapter welcomed a veteran who cared for dogs during the war, and his story was remarkably interesting. Ask your members for suggestions. Most everyone knows someone who served during the Vietnam War years. There are thousands of them who have yet to be recognized through this 50th anniversary commemoration, and we want DAR members to find them – and thank them!
Do not forget to check out all the opportunities the National Society offers to recognize outstanding involvement: Best Chapter Event, Best Single State Event, Best Multi-Chapter Event, Best Vietnam War Chapter Display, Best Chapter Publication, Best State Publication and Largest number of Vets honored at an event; and from the official United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, the Outstanding State Member in which each state. If you have questions, check the Members’ website under Committees, Commemorative Events and then forms for complete information.
There are few feelings as special as those you experience when presenting the beautiful certificate of Thanks and Appreciation, along with a special lapel pin, to recognize a Vietnam Veteran for his/her service. The Veterans are not the only ones who leave the meeting deeply moved. This Commemoration ends November 11, 2025. Won’t you be a part of it?
