Author: Jordank

Editorial Coordinator

Celebrating National Vietnam War Veterans Day

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Next Tuesday, March 29, is National Vietnam War Veterans Day. Why March 29? Because on March 29, 1973, Military Assistance Command Vietnam (MACV) was disbanded and the last U.S. combat troops departed the Republic of Vietnam.

Vietnam veterans first got their own holiday the following year — even before the fall of Saigon in 1975 — thanks to President Richard Nixon, who declared March 29 Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day. But not until 2012 did the push for a national observance get underway.

That year, President Obama issued a proclamation calling upon all Americans to observe March 29 as Vietnam Veterans Day with programs, ceremonies and other activities that commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.

“One of the most painful chapters in our history was Vietnam — particularly how we treated our troops who served there,” President Obama said in his remarks. “You were often blamed for a war you didn’t start, when you should have been commended for serving your country with valor.”

In 2017, National Vietnam War Veterans Day was established as an official observance. Now in its fifth year, National Vietnam War Veterans Day is the occasion for hundreds of celebrations and events nationwide — all held to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice.

More than 3.2 million people served between Nov. 1, 1955 and May 15, 1975. But those numbers are dwindling: More than 500 Vietnam veterans pass every day, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. So the time to thank them is now.

Take some time out in the next couple weeks to observe National Vietnam War Veterans Day by visiting a veterans memorial or attending a commemorative event; thanking a Vietnam veteran personally with a call, card or visit; or volunteering your time with a veterans organization.

You can also donate your used clothing and household goods to ClothingDoanations.org year-round to fund programs that help honor those who served by staging commemorative events and offering direct assistance when needed. The nation’s veterans thank you for your support!

What to Do When You’ve Overindulged

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Avoiding overcelebration on St. Patrick’s Day is more a matter of preparation and self-control that something you can remedy after the fact, says Global News. If you woke up this morning feeling more than little “green” from St. Patrick’s Day, know that most so-called hangover “cures” either won’t work or can exacerbate the situation. Over-the-counter analgesics can be hard on the liver, but antacids can help soothe a sour stomach. Mild, digestible carbs such as toast, crackers or pretzels can help on the day after, alongside plenty of replacement fluids such as water or tea. The only proven remedies are rest and time, however. #StPatricksDay

Imbibe Safely on St. Patrick’s Day

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If you plan to indulge in a prolonged #pub crawl or toast on St. Patrick’s Day, do so wisely: Start with a meal that’s rich in carbs and protein, Bon Appetit says. For example, a corned beef hash or a classic #Irish breakfast with, sausage, eggs, beans and tea will protect a sensitive stomach and slow the absorption of alcohol. Take a multivitamin to head off nutrient depletion, and match any Guinesses consumed ounce-for-ounce with still water to maintain hydration. Don’t be afraid to fuel up with snacks as the day wears on, or just bow out when you know you’ve had enough — and never mix drinking and driving. Slainte! #StPatricksDay

Find Some Green Garb for St. Patrick’s Day

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Planning to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and short on green gear? Make tracks to a local thrift store that’s supplied by your generous donations to ClothingDonations.org. There, you’ll find all manner of Kelly-green garb, and if you shop early, seasonal decorations that suggest Irishness such as artificial shamrock garlands. Any day is a good day to #donate, of course; lightly used clothing, small appliances and other household goods of all colors and sizes are welcomed throughout the year as part of a free #donation #pickup. #Donations are tax-deductible, too, so schedule yours today! #StPatricksDay

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day Over the Centuries

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The Feast of St. Patrick has been celebrated on March 17 since the ninth or 10th century, according to History.com, in recognition of the patron saint who brought Christianity to the Erin Isle and — legend has it — rid it of snakes. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in what is now Florida (!) in 1601. Only recently has it grown into an excuse to #celebrate all things #Irish with a pint of Guiness or green beer, however; it remained a religious holiday in its home country until the 1970s. Today, huge parades are held annually in New York City, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Savannah, Ga., and many other locations worldwide. #StPatricksDay