On April 30, 2025, marking the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, the Richard Nixon Foundation hosted a ceremony honoring the patriotism, sacrifice, and service of U.S. and South Vietnamese military veterans. The event began with an outdoor ceremony at the Pat Nixon Amphitheater, followed by a solemn rose-laying tribute at the Vietnam Veterans Monument in remembrance of the fallen. Each veteran in attendance received a commemorative challenge coin as a lasting token of appreciation for their courage and dedication to the cause of freedom.
Featured speakers included James Tsu, a South Vietnamese veteran and graduate of Vietnam’s Military Academy, and Tony Cordero, a Gold Star son and founder of Sons and Daughters in Touch, an organization that unites America’s Gold Star children from the Vietnam War. Both delivered remarks of remembrance and gratitude.
In his reflections, Tsu stated, “Even though we came from different nations—America and Vietnam—we believe in one thing: to protect the right to live in freedom, dignity, and without oppression.” He emphasized the role of veterans as living witnesses of history and underscored the importance of teaching future generations about the sacrifices made to preserve freedom.
Cordero spoke about the enduring values of persistence, perseverance, patriotism, and commitment to service. Highlighting the importance of honoring and acknowledging the experiences of Vietnam veterans and their families, he concluded with a heartfelt message to the veterans in attendance: “Welcome home.”
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