On Sunday, in observance of National Vietnam War Veterans Day, the 25th Navajo Nation Council honored and expressed its deepest gratitude to the men and women who served during the Vietnam War.
Observed each year on March 29, the day recognizes the millions of Americans who served and commemorates the 1973 withdrawal of the last U.S. combat troops from Vietnam. Established in 2017, it provides an opportunity to honor Vietnam veterans with the respect and recognition many did not receive upon returning home.
Speaker Crystalyne Curley, along with members of the 25th Navajo Nation Council, joined the Nahata Dziil community for its second annual Celebrating Our Vietnam Veterans event. Speaker Curley and Council Delegates Arbin Mitchell and Dr. Andy Nez reflected on the experiences of those who served during the Vietnam era and the challenges they faced upon returning home.
While today’s service members are often welcomed back with ceremonies, dinners, and parades, Vietnam veterans experienced a far different reception.
“Our Vietnam veterans did not receive the warm welcome they deserved. Today, we make it a point to honor our service members when they return, but that was not the reality for them. We want to say what should have always been said: thank you, and welcome home,” said Speaker Crystalyne Curley.
Council Delegate Mitchell also recognized the role of families, honoring them for their unwavering support and the emotional burden they carried during the conflict.
Delegate Dr. Nez echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the sacrifices endured by veterans’ families and encouraging the use of prayer and traditional songs as a source of strength and healing.
Nez, a longtime advocate for veterans, also highlighted recent efforts to strengthen support systems for Navajo veterans. In October 2025, he passed legislation codifying the structure and authority of veterans’ organizations across all Navajo agencies and chapters. The law enables these groups to establish formal plans of operation and ensures their inclusion in Navajo Nation Veterans Administration and Veterans Advisory Council activities and advocacy.
Council Delegate Vince James further honored Vietnam veterans by offering a traditional song for their protection and thanking the community for standing behind its service members.
The Council also recognized the legacy of Navajo Nation service members who answered the call during the Vietnam War, continuing a long tradition of military service among Diné people. Thousands served with honor and distinction, and many made the ultimate sacrifice.
“We honor those who never came home, those still missing, and the families who continue to carry that loss,” Curley said. “Many are still grieving, still searching for answers. We must remain reverent, hold our warriors in prayer, and ensure their legacy lives on. Today, we honor them with the pride and respect they have always deserved.”
The 25th Navajo Nation Council also thanked the Nahata Dziil Veterans Organization for organizing the event and reaffirmed its solidarity with all Vietnam veterans, recognizing their service, sacrifice, and resilience.