Albany, NY – In recognition of New York State’s Vietnam Veterans’ Day, Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-119) joined her statewide colleagues today in welcoming Vietnam Veterans from across the state to Albany for Vietnam Veterans Day at the Capitol, an annual event which brought together legislators from both chambers in honor and celebratory recognition of the extraordinary servicemen and women who sacrificed for our nation amidst the historic challenges of the Vietnam Era.

“When I think about the Vietnam generation of Veterans, I reflect upon the remarkable character it takes to serve your country in the face of uncertainty, and to come home and carry on, often without the recognition they deserved or so much as a thank you. These are men and women of extraordinary strength and quiet dignity, and it is truly an honor to join my colleagues today in providing them even a small measure of the gratitude and recognition they have so always deserved”

The day's program began with a welcoming luncheon in the Assembly Parlor, followed by a guided tour of the Capitol and a formal recognition ceremony on the floor of the Assembly Chamber. The event was hosted by Chair of the Senate Veterans, Homeland Security, and Military Affairs Committee Jessica Scarcella-Spanton; Chair of the Assembly Subcommittee on Women Veterans Pam Hunter; Ranking Member of the Assembly Veterans' Affairs Committee Brian Manktelow; Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans, Homeland Security, and Military Affairs Committee Jacob Ashby; Assemblymember Matt Slater; and Assemblymember Brian Maher.

Among today’s extraordinary honorees, three distinguished veterans from the 119th District and the Mohawk Valley: Navy Veteran Petty Officer 3rd Class Milton Lee; Naval Veteran Pauline Bright; and Army Specialist 5 Gene Blackburn. Reflecting the very best of our community, and serving at a time when the cost of service was steep, and gratitude was not always guaranteed, regardless, each of these outstanding individuals, armed with their unwavering commitment and dedication to this great country, proudly answered the call to serve. Today’s events, held in the presence of their courage and the quiet dignity with which so many Vietnam Veterans have carried their service, stand as a reminder that the people, faces, and stories of Vietnam are more than just history, they are our friends, our family, and our neighbors.

“It is long overdue that we recognize these heroes with the full honor and gratitude that they have always deserved,” Buttenschon said. “To have four veterans from the Mohawk Valley here at the Capitol today is a profound privilege. Representing the courage and resilience of an entire generation, I am proud to stand alongside my colleagues in making sure their service is never forgotten.

During the recognition ceremony on the Assembly floor, each honored veteran was acknowledged for their individual service. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the debt owed to those who served in Vietnam, veterans who, for far too long, did not receive the welcome home they had earned. New York State's designation of March 25th as Vietnam Veterans Day reflects a commitment to ensuring their sacrifice is deservingly remembered and honored each year.