New York’s skyline and bridges glowed in red, yellow and green Sunday night as 15 landmarks across the state lit up to honor Vietnam veterans and their families.
The coordinated display marked Vietnam Veterans Day, commemorating the March 29, 1973, withdrawal of the last 2,500 U.S. troops from South Vietnam — a turning point that ended direct American military involvement in the war.
Using the colors of the Vietnam Service Medal, the tribute recognized those who served and remembered those who died, while acknowledging that many Vietnam veterans returned home without the recognition they deserved.
Landmarks across the state participated, creating a unified display of remembrance. Among them were One World Trade Center, the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, the Kosciuszko Bridge and the H. Carl McCall SUNY Building. Other sites included the State Education Building, the Alfred E. Smith State Office Building and Empire State Plaza, along with the State Fairgrounds’ Main Gate and Expo Center and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Mid-Hudson Bridge.
“Today, New York State landmarks will be lit in green, yellow and red — the colors of the Vietnam Service Medal — to recognize New York's Vietnam Veterans and to honor those who died while serving their state and nation,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “Many who served in Vietnam did not receive the appreciation and respect they had earned when they returned home. That is why today, and every day, we take the time to honor their courage and thank them for their service.”
In New York City and beyond, Grand Central Terminal’s Pershing Square Viaduct, the Albany International Airport Gateway and the MTA Long Island Rail Road East End Gateway at Penn Station were also illuminated. Additional sites included the Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal, Moynihan Train Hall and the Roosevelt Island Lighthouse, creating a visible moment of reflection for millions.
New York is home to about 180,000 Vietnam-era veterans and their families. The war’s impact remains deeply felt, particularly in light of the 4,119 New Yorkers whose names are inscribed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The annual observance offers an opportunity to reflect on that sacrifice while recognizing the resilience of those who returned and rebuilt their lives.
The New York State Department of Veterans’ Services continues to support veterans, service members and military families by connecting them with benefits, services and resources. Veterans can access assistance through in-person or virtual appointments with accredited Veterans Benefits Advisors.
The department also operates mobile outreach vans that travel to communities statewide, providing a private space for veterans to receive support.
For those in crisis, immediate help is available through the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 988 and selecting the veterans option, offering confidential, 24/7 assistance.
The observance stands as both tribute and commitment — honoring those who served while reinforcing New York’s responsibility to support its veteran community.
