(June 2017) A bill sponsored by Assemblywoman Claudia Tenney (R,C-New Hartford) that would allow the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) to be recognized as a benevolent order passed the state Assembly recently. Tenney said this is the right step to help honor and recognize the service and sacrifices made by veterans of the Vietnam War.
“I am so pleased that my bill allowing the VVA to be recognized as a benevolent order was passed in the Assembly today,” said Tenney. “I applaud the work the VVA has done to improve the status and lives of their fellow Vietnam veterans. It is important that we as a state show consideration and respect for those who served in the Vietnam War.”
Tenney has sponsored the bill for the last three years, but it was previously killed in the committee process.
The VVA was founded in 1978 to serve veterans of the Vietnam conflict and their families. The organization and its members have worked diligently to change the perception of Vietnam-era veterans, who in the past faced significant derision. Unlike other veteran organizations, the VVA has not received benefits such as tax exemptions or the ability to apply for liquor licenses. Additionally, changing its status will allow the VVA to store and display its records, flags and other relics at the State Capitol.