Chicago honors Vietnam veterans with wreath-laying ceremony

Dozens gather at the Chicago Vietnam Veterans Memorial to mark National Vietnam War Veterans Day.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 9:12pm

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On Sunday, Vietnam veterans and their loved ones gathered in Chicago for a wreath-laying ceremony at the Chicago Vietnam Veterans Memorial along the Riverwalk. The event was held to commemorate National Vietnam War Veterans Day, which marks the withdrawal of the last U.S. troops from South Vietnam on March 29, 1973.

Why it matters

The annual ceremony provides an opportunity for the Chicago community to come together and honor the service and sacrifice of the 9 million Americans who served during the Vietnam War era, including the more than 58,000 who lost their lives.

The details

Dozens of veterans and their families attended the wreath-laying ceremony at the Chicago Vietnam Veterans Memorial, located along the Riverwalk between State Street and Wabash Avenue. The event was held on March 29, which is designated as National Vietnam War Veterans Day to remember those who served during that conflict.

  • The wreath-laying ceremony took place on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
  • March 29 marks the withdrawal of the last 2,500 U.S. troops from South Vietnam in 1973.

The players

Chicago Vietnam Veterans Memorial

A memorial located along the Riverwalk in Chicago, dedicated to honoring those who served in the Vietnam War.

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The takeaway

The annual wreath-laying ceremony in Chicago serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Vietnam veterans and their families, and provides an opportunity for the community to come together and show their gratitude.