It is no wonder that the veterans shout and curse. It is also not surprising that many of them no longer feel attached to this country as their home. They have not forsaken us; they feel that we have forsaken them. I want to add my voice to their shouts and curses. The Vietnam War cannot be over for us until we redeem our commitment to the men who accepted these risks of war.
Peace has become hell for hundreds of thousands of Vietnam veterans. We can change that if we will only pledge not to forget those brave men and to commit ourselves to welcoming them into our places of work, our homes, and our society, as full-fledged American heroes with a special claim on our love and gratitude.
– DANIEL K. INOUYE
Support for Vietnam veterans, May 24, 1974.