What This Flag Symbolizes
This flag is hung in Legion Hall recognizing that we are a commemorative partner of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam war. I thought you may be interested in what each item on the flag symbolizes.
“The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration” is the official title given to the Department of Defense program in the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act. The traditional use of the color gold to signify a 50 Anniversary was chosen for the phrase “50th Anniversary” and symbolizes the specific mission of the Department of Defense program as outlined in the Congressional language “to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.” A representation of the Vietnam Service Medal rests below the inner rings. The red, white, and blue inner rings represent the flag of the United States of America and recognize all Americans, both military and civilian, who served or contributed to the Vietnam War effort . The outer black ring serves as a reminder of those who were held as prisoners of war or listed as missing in ac- tion during the Vietnam War. The black ring surrounds the red, white, and blue rings to call attention to their sacrifices, the sacrifices of their families, and the defense of our nation’s freedom. Within the blue ring are the words “Service, Valor and Sacrifice”; virtues demonstrated by our veterans during the Vietnam War. The gold-rimmed white star located be- tween the words “Service” and “Valor” represents hope for the families of those veterans for which there has not been a full accounting. The blue-rimmed gold star located between the words “Valor” and “Sacrifice” represents the families of those veterans who paid the ultimate sacrifice during the war. The blue star at the bottom of the inner blue ring represents the families of all veterans and symbolizes their support from home. At the bottom of the inner blue ring are six white stars, three on each side of the blue star. These six white stars symbolize the contributions and sacrifices made by the United States and its Allies, Australia, New Zealand, Philip- pines, Republic of Korea, and Thailand. The center circle contains a map of Vietnam in black outline relief, signifying both the country and the Vietnamese veterans who stood with our veterans. The subdued outlines of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and surrounding waters represent the area of opera- tion where U.S. Armed Forces served. The green laurel wreath signifies honor for all who served. The phrase “A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You” is the personal mes- sage to each veteran, civilian, family member, and all who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War. The seal’s blue background is the same color as the canton in the United States Flag.