by Andy Nigut

Andy Nigut served in Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division in I Corps near the DMZ in 1968, when he was almost mortally wounded by an enemy rocket in the face and body. After a long recovery, Andy became a VA counselor, and, with other young combat veterans, wrestled with the VA to create street-level counseling outreach that today is known as the Vets Center. Andy sent these thoughts on our Veterans Day Open Conversation program on November 11, 2024.

Last night’s discussions were intriguing and inspiring. I was impressed by the respect shown by participants and listeners alike. Even when people disagreed or held different beliefs, they communicated with civility—a lesson everyone in this country could benefit from. The Marine Corps instills discipline and respect, and I think our country could benefit from the experience, though not everyone would endure the rigor of boot camp.

My beliefs and values remain unchanged, and I will never abandon my identity as a Vietnam Combat Veteran. I take pride in earning two Purple Hearts, and no policy will diminish that. I hold deep respect for all who have served, though I recognize our experiences differ greatly. Service itself is honorable, but combat adds a unique dimension to that experience.

I have long disliked the phrase, “Thank you for your service.” Since I first heard it, it has felt insufficient. For Vietnam Veterans, I believe the most respectful greeting is “Welcome Home.” As for “Happy Veterans Day,” I welcome that too. Veterans Day, to me, is not about my combat experience but rather the broader experiences and friendships I gained through military service. It’s a day to honor one another, celebrate our achievements, and recognize the sacrifices of our families. It’s a time for camaraderie, not for mourning or sadness.

[yotuwp type=”videos” id=”ps92eE9jSk0″ ]

One point that seems confused is that Veterans Day is not about combat or war itself, nor should it be compared to Memorial Day. No day holds the same solemn purpose as Memorial Day, which honors those killed in combat. Referring to the fallen as “veterans” is, to me, a misrepresentation. These men and women were on active duty and, tragically, never had the opportunity to become veterans. Placing flags on their graves on Veterans Day, as some politicians do, feels misaligned with the day’s true meaning. Words matter, and these distinctions honor the truth of each sacrifice.

Gold Star Families carry a different weight than veterans’ families; they lost loved ones in service to our country. Surveys show that only 54% of Americans know the meaning of Memorial Day. But I think about those killed and the Gold Star Families every day, not just on Memorial Day.

One final thought: When was Vietnam declared a “war”? Over time, it has come to be called the Vietnam War, though that misrepresents the reality of what it truly was—a “political conflict.” The distinction is significant because it reflects the truth of what we experienced. Our service in Vietnam was shaped by political decisions, not the declared state of war, and understanding this matters.

I don’t write this to sound like an author but rather to express my thoughts, beliefs, and feelings and perhaps provoke thought in others. I hope your Veterans Day was fulfilling and that your efforts are appreciated.