292026Z APR 75From: SECDEF (Secretary of Defense)
To: all DOD components
SECDEF sends to the members of the armed forces:
As the last withdrawal of Americans from Vietnam takes place, it is my special responsibility to address to you, the men and women of our armed forces, a few words of appreciation on behalf of the American people.
For many of you, the tragedy of southeast Asia is more than a distant and abstract event. You have fought there; you have lost comrades there; you have suffered there.
In this hour of pain and reflection you may feel that your efforts and sacrifices have been for naught.This is not the case. When the passions have muted and the history is
Written, Americans will recall that their armed forces served them well. Under circumstances more difficult than ever before faced by our military services, you accomplished the mission assigned to you by higher authority. In combat, you were victorious, and you left the field with honor.Though you have done all that was asked of you, it will be stated that the war itself was futile. In some sense, such may be said of any national effort that ultimately fails.
Yet, your involvement was not purposeless. It was intended to assist a small nation to preserve its independence in the face of external attack and to provide at least a reasonable chance to survive. That Vietnam succumbed to powerful external forces vitiates neither the explicit purpose behind our involvement, nor the impulse of generosity toward those under attack that has long infused American policy.Your record of duty performed under difficult conditions remains Unmatched.
I salute you for it. Beyond any question, you are entitled to the nation's respect, admiration, and gratitude.James R. Schlesinger, Secretary of Defense.
29 APRIL 1975